Montgomery Parents June 2014 by KeepSharing

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College of William & Mary Colorado School of Mines University of Colorado Columbia University Cornell University Dartmouth College Davidson College University of Delaware Drexel University Duke University Elon University Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Emory University Emory & Henry University Florida Atlantic University Florida State University University of Florida Furman University Georgetown University George Mason University George Washington University University of Georgia Georgia Institute of Technology Grambling State University Grinnell College University of Hartford Harvard University Hollins University

Huntingdon College Indiana University Judson College University of Kansas University of Kentucky Kettering University LaSalle University Liberty University Lipscomb University Louisiana State University University of Louisiana-Lafayette University of Louisiana-Monroe University of Louisville Loyola University University of Maryland Maryville College University of Massachusetts University of Miami Millsaps College Mercer University Middlebury College University of Mississippi Mississippi College Mississippi State University University of Missouri University of Mobile University of Montevallo Mount Holyoke College University of Nebraska

New York University University of North Alabama University of North Carolina North Carolina School for the Arts University of Northern Iowa Northern Arizona University Northwestern University University of Notre Dame Oberlin College Ohio State University Oxford College Oxford University, England Pepperdine University University of Portland Princeton University Providence College Purdue University Regents College, London Rhodes College Rice University Ringling School of Art and Design Rutgers University Saint Louis University Samford University San Diego State University Savannah College of Art and Design Smith College University of Southern California

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University of Southern Mississippi University of the South: Sewanee University of South Alabama University of South Florida University of South Carolina Spring Hill College Stanford University Sweet Briar College University of Tennessee University of Texas Texas State University Troy University Tulane University Tuskegee University University of Virginia United States Military Academy United States Naval Academy Vanderbilt University Virginia Polytechnic Institute Wake Forest University Washington University in St. Louis Washington and Lee University Wesleyan College of North Carolina Wesleyan University University of West Florida West Point Military Academy Western Michigan University Xavier University

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June 2014 58

Volume 19 Number 6

Columns

6 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

When Your Toddler Says NO!

Find advice for handling that dreaded word you often hear all day long.

Networking for the Homeschooling Family Support is your best friend when beginning to homeschool. Learn where to find the help you need.

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen

46 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

50 Elmore Education Matters

by Superintendent Jeffery E. Langham

56 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

60 Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

Homeschool Guide

Our listing shares curriculum, cover schools, support groups and much more.

Encouraging Independence

Four ways to help your child grow through every day tasks!

On The Cover Anna Elizabeth Summerford (age 14) is a homeschooled 9th grader with Evangel Family Christian Academy. She enjoys playing volleyball, basketball and softball at EFCA and is very involved with her church youth group. Anna is looking forward to a mission trip to Haiti this summer. Anna is the daughter of Laura Summerford and has two siblings: Melody (18) and Jordan (21) Bray. 5

74 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 82 Calendar/Support Groups 95 Advertiser Directory 96 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Editor’sNote

As parents, we enjoy having our kids need us. When our little ones run up to show us their booboos and want to be cuddled, it warms our hearts. When they have their first slumber party away from home, we want them to have fun, but we are also glad to know they did miss us a little. Growing our kids up means they must go from being totally dependent on us for everything to eventually being independent and ready for lives of their own. All the years in between are where this amazing transition occurs. Whether you are parenting a child who seemed to be born with an independent streak, or one who is more clingy, there are ideas you can implement into your family’s daily life to increase independence. This month’s feature, 4 Ways to Encourage Independence (From Toddlers to Teens) , shares advice to help them begin managing themselves in the following areas: dressing, eating, playing and spending. When we let go and let them accomplish new tasks on their own, we’ll know we’ve done what’s best for them...and we will see that sparkle of pride in their eyes! Before we leave the topic of independence, take a peek at our listing of July 4th Celebrations on page 78. You’ll find River Region parades, concerts, barbecue and, of course, fireworks to enjoy with your family this Independence Day! Now that summer is here, some families may be considering a change in the area of schooling for their kids. Our June issue offers support to parents who are considering or who are new to homeschooling. What can feel like an overwhelming task becomes much more doable with the right resources. Be sure to read Networking for the Homeschooling Family , by Carol J. Alexander, and then refer to our Homeschooling Resource Guide immediately following her article. Our comprehensive listing shares national and local resources for homeschooling parents, including curriculum, online help, co-ops, support groups and extracurricular activities. Knowing that summer is a time many new families move to our area, we’d like to say WELCOME! We believe Montgomery Parents is a valuable resource for you, directing you to local business for services you need and also helping you connect with the community. Our advertisers are ready to serve you and our family calendar is full of local events to get you out and about meeting new folks. Please feel free to email me at deanne@montgomeryparents.com if there’s any way we can help your family as you transition to the River Region. Finally, Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, and Happy Summer as we all enjoy a break in our routines!

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Carol J. Alexander Margaret Allen Karen Doles, M.D. Laura Handey Christa Melnyk Hines Dr. Jeff Langham Heidi Smith Luedtke John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com

Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Savannah Bowden Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Member

DeAnne

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2014 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery 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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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Avoid the Power Struggle Q: My 14-year-old son does not brush his teeth, except during the week before going to the dentist. He doesn’t have any cavities, his breath is fine, his check-ups at the dentist are at the “acceptable” level (not great, but passable), and his teeth look fine. So he feels like it’s an unnecessary bother. I nevertheless am concerned that he is setting himself up for dental problems. My wife wants to clamp down on this and enforce him brushing his teeth very closely, which would consist of being in the bathroom with him and supervising his brushing. If we don’t watch him, he will go in the bathroom and just do a perfunctory job, or just wet his toothbrush and say he brushed. Any advice? A: My advice is that you accept you have done and said everything you can do and say to get him to realize the importance of brushing his teeth and stop doing or saying anything. Have you not yet figured out that short of standing over him while he brushes---something that is going to get very tiresome very quickly—you aren’t going to win this battle? And I suspect, by the way, that this has turned into a power struggle that he is winning, he knows he’s winning, and he is going to continue winning no matter what you do.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

If you stand over him in the bathroom twice a day, you are only going to stimulate more passive-aggressive behavior from him and become increasingly exasperated. He’s going to see to that. Drop it. It is only a matter of time before his peers begin telling him he has bad breath. One cannot neglect brushing forever and not develop halitosis. You can also inform him that if he develops a cavity, it will be his job to pay for the repair, and that his privileges will be suspended until he has satisfied the debt. Let this monkey be on his back, not yours.

Q: My 18-year-old son and a slightly younger friend recently found some mice and decided to dispose of them. They drowned one and set the other one on fire. When I confronted my son for torturing animals, his response was, “They’re just mice.” Is this typical boy behavior or should I be concerned? A: This may be “boy behavior” in that

boys are certainly more likely to do such things than girls, but it is definitely not typical boy behavior. Animal torture and abuse is a very strong marker of Antisocial Personality Disorder. The website “How

to Spot a Sociopath” (http://www.wikihow. com/Spot-a-Sociopath) defines APD as a “disregard for the feelings of others, a lack of remorse or shame, manipulative behavior, unchecked egocentricity, and the ability to lie in order to achieve one’s goals.” The mere fact that your son tortured mice to death is not, in and of itself, diagnostic, but it certainly raises suspicions. His cavalier attitude when you confronted him raises those suspicions even higher. The question turns on whether or not other aspects of your son’s behavior fit the criteria. It is possible, in other words, for a person to exhibit an isolated sociopathic behavior without actually being a sociopath. If, however, your son habitually lies, seems callous toward the problems of others, is generally narcissistic, and often manipulative of others, then I would recommend a professional evaluation. He’s still young enough that if he’s confronted with a problem of this sort in a professional setting, he can possibly make some corrections to the direction his life is taking.

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

www.montgomeryparents.com

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SHOPPING, DINING

& FAMILY FUN –ALL INSIDE! Every Saturday through August 2 from 5pm–7pm* Family friendly activities sponsored by River Region organizations including: JUNE 7TH Abrakadoodle Facepainting & Crafts

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JUNE 14TH Family Game Night JUNE 21ST Super Hero Night ft. Build-A-Bear & Chick-fil-A

JUNE 28TH The Montgomery Zoo

Plus great discounts from retailers

Free Ice Skating & Half Off Carousel Rides!

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PEP Parental Escort Policy

Belk, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Sears & over 85 Specialty Shops, including Chuck E. Cheese’s® and the River Region’s only Build-A-Bear Workshop®

Visitors 17 years & younger are required to be escorted by a parent Friday & Saturday evenings after 6pm.

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5/27/14 3:55 PM

Family Theatre

June 5 - August 1 Thursdays & Fridays 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. ALL SEATS $1 June 5-6: Fantastic Mr Fox (PG) June 12-13: Despicable Me 2 (PG) June 19-20: Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 (PG) June 26-27: The Croods (PG) July 10-11: The Lorax (PG) July 17-18: Madagascar (PG) July 24-25: The Pirates! Band Of Misfits (PG) July 31-August 1: Puss In Boots (PG)

Cloverdale Playhouse Summer Classes

Sign your favorite kid up for a theater class at the Playhouse and he’ll have so much fun, he won’t realize he’s learning important life skills like teamwork, focus, empathy, and creative thinking. Age groups listed are for rising grade level in fall ’14. Register online today! K-2nd Grade July 29-31 9 a.m.-noon $125 3rd-5th Grade July 8-10 9 a.m.-noon $125 6th-8th Grade July 14-18 9 a.m.-noon $200 9th-12th Grade July 21-25 9 a.m.-noon $200 Classes for Teens each Monday in July 10:30-noon $75 Please call (334) 262-1530 ext. 2 for registration or more information or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Wetumpka Depot Players present Pinkalicious: the Musical! June 27-29. Local child actors from Wetumpka Depot’s “Acting Up” summer program will perform four shows at 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 4 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. For tickets, call 868-1440 or visit www.wetumpkadepot.com. Call us to book Pinkalicious birthday parties! Millbrook Community Players present Grease July 10-12, 17-19 and 24-26 @ 7:30 p.m. and July 20 @ 2 p.m. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hotrodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. Head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive the high romance of their “Summer Nights” as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such songs as “Greased Lightnin’,” “It’s Raining on Prom Night” and “Alone at the Drive-In Movie.” The Alabama Shakespeare Festival will conclude its 2013-14 season with Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Broadway blockbuster Mary Poppins July 16-27. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins showcases some of the most memorable songs ever sung on the silver screen or stage including “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “Jolly Holiday,” “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!” 10

Archives & History Present Old-Fashioned Summer Programs

For Day Care & School Groups Enjoy summer fun in our cool museum! Explore summers of long ago at the Museum of Alabama in hour-long programs specifically tailored to day care and school groups. Activities include oldfashioned games, stories, touchable artifacts, and a history hunt! Programs are FREE but must be scheduled in advance. Call (334) 242-4364 to schedule your group! Visit www.museum.alabama.gov. The Museum of Alabama is located at the Alabama Department of Archives & History in downtown Montgomery and open Monday-Saturday, 8:30-4:30. Admission is always FREE!

Martina McBride July 17 at MPAC

To date, Martina has sold more than 18 million albums, which have included twenty Top 10 singles and six numberone hits. She has earned more than 15 major music awards, including four wins for “Female Vocalist of the Year” from the Country Music Association and three wins for “Top Female Vocalist” from the Academy of Country Music. She will perform at 8 p.m. July 17. Tickets are on sale now at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre beginning at $40. Call 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org www.montgomeryparents.com

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Family Art Affairs at the Art Museum

Summer Bible Study

Sundays June 8-July 20 * 5-7 p.m. Frazer UMC Activity Center Enjoy summertime fun and fellowship with other families, and learn God’s Word from a fresh perspective. Using a multi-level approach, we’ll explore the great stories of the Bible in a way that engages the attention of a child, while still challenging the teens and adults, and creates opportunities for discussion between all ages. Starting at 5 p.m., bring a brown bag dinner from home (or stop by the drive-through, we won’t judge!), and enjoy fellowship time with other families around games, art projects, and other unstructured activities. We may even plan some covered dish suppers a couple of nights. Around 6 p.m. we’ll move into a Bible story experience, illustrated through video and interactive elements, along with hands-on activities, finishing up with a family discussion and prayer time. Teaching will be led by Ken and Emily Roach. Designed for parents, guardians or grandparents with children who are kindergarten graduates and up. We even welcome teens! Need childcare for your preschoolers? We are currently assessing if there is enough demand to open the Frazer nursery (0-3). Contact Ken Roach at 495-6328 or ken@frazerumc.org.

Sunday, June 22 * 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to the Museum for this special FREE fun day! Create a collage using photographs, watercolor crayons, markers, and more! Museum Exhibition Connection: “In Time We Shall Know Ourselves: Photographs by Raymond Smith.” For more info, visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333.

July 4th COLOR Run

Riverfront Park in downtown Montgomery. The Color Run, also known as the Happiest 5k on the Planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness and individuality. Now the single largest event series in the United States, The Color Run has exploded since our debut event. We have more than tripled our growth, hosting more than 170 events in 30+ countries in 2013. We are thrilled to be working with the American Cancer Society. For information, visit: http://thecolorrun.com/montgomery/2014-07-04/.

Family Fun at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball

Kids Day -- June 1, 8 & 22 Riverwalk Stadium at 5:35 p.m. Kids Play Catch on the Field & Run the Bases! Freebie Friday June 6 Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. FREE Hot Dog & Soda for all kids 12 & under! After the game, enjoy a show with MAX Fireworks Spectacular! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Introducing Solid Foods to Baby The recommendations surrounding the introduction of foods to babies is an everevolving science. New parents will hear lots of unsolicited advice from well meaning family members and friends. The advice will range from starting rice cereal in a bottle at two weeks of age to exclusively breastfeeding until a year! So, here are the current, research based suggestions regarding solids. It is currently recommended that parents delay the introduction of any food besides breast milk or formula until the age of four to six months. Starting solids before this age can interfere with the baby’s ability to take in adequate nutrition through drinking. Young infants will often push the food out of their mouth. They lack the coordination necessary to deal with the solid and this could lead to accidentally inhaling small food particles into their lungs. Waiting longer than six months can also be problematic. It can lead to decreased growth from inadequate calorie intake from breast milk or formula alone. It can also make the baby resistant to trying new foods. So, how do you know when your baby is ready to start eating? Here are some signs to look for. Your baby should be four to six months old, as mentioned above. Most babies have doubled their birth weight by this

point, another indicator of being about ready to start solids. He or she should be able to sit well with support. He should have good head and neck control and be able to push himself up when on his tummy. He should be reaching for things and putting his hands and toys in his mouth, and he should be watching you with interest when you eat! There is no longer a perfect “first food.” It used to be recommended that all babies start with rice cereal because it is readily available and is least likely to cause an allergic reaction. It is now widely accepted to start with any traditional pureed food, including single ingredient cereals, fruits, vegetables, or even meats. Each new food should be introduced by itself, and, if tolerated, new foods can be added one at a time. The goal is to introduce the infant to a variety of foods and textures. The order of foods and quantity are not as important. Avoid foods with added sugar or salt. There are a few foods that should be delayed. Babies under 12 months should NOT be given cow’s milk, honey, or hard, round foods that could cause choking such as raw carrots, nuts, grapes, or candies. Parents used to be instructed to avoid certain highly allergenic foods for months or even years, such as fish, shellfish, peanuts,

tree nuts, eggs, wheat, and soy. Studies no longer support waiting on introducing these foods. If baby tolerates the introduction of the traditional puréed foods without any signs of allergy (including eczema), and there is no family history of allergic diseases, the highly allergenic foods listed above can be included in their diets (but do not give whole nuts or peanuts, as they are a choking hazard). Whole cow’s milk should still be delayed until a year, but cheese and yogurt are fine to try. Introducing foods to your baby should be fun! You are building the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating habits. Start now by introducing nutrient rich foods. Be sure to watch your baby for cues indicating he or she is full, and do not over feed! If they are turning away or losing interest, they are finished. Try to have family meals from the start, as research has shown that sitting down to eat as a family has positive effects on the development of children. Most of all, relax and have fun watching your baby experience the joys of healthy eating! Dr. Karen Doles is a board certified pediatrician practicing at Professional Pediatrics in Montgomery, Alabama. She completed her medical degree at the University of Tennessee in Memphis, and her residency at State University of New York in Buffalo. She lives in Montgomery with her husband and three children.

Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy

OFFICE (334) 271-5959 NURSE LINE (334) 272-6667

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

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It Starts Early! There is a poem written by Robert Fulghum entitled “All I Really Needed to Know, I Learned in Kindergarten.” It suggests that if you really think about it, most essential life skills are gained through our early childhood experiences. Fulghum identifies skills that lead to being kind and respectful adults, such as sharing, playing fair and learning to say “I’m sorry.” He writes: “Everything you need to know is there somewhere: The Golden Rule, love and basic sanitation, ecology and politics and equality and sane living.” In my opinion, he is so right. If we want our children to grow to be responsible adults, we must be especially atten-

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

tive to ensuring proper environments in which they can grow – especially in the early years. Adults (parents, grandparents, teachers) are responsible for our children learning essential life skills that must begin well … in the beginning. Another research-based philosophy to prepare our offspring for adulthood is that of educating the whole child; considering social and emotional alongside of intellectual growth. Businesses refer to those added abilities as “soft skills” and deem them essential to workforce success. All of this preparation for success begins in the early years. Home and school together make a great combination for setting the environmental stage for student success. Parents are a child’s first teacher and the heart for learning is shaped by what is said and done at home. Teachers come alongside and continue to mold and add. Our nation acknowledges this and is seeking to place pre-kindergarten experiences in a rightful place in the education world.

So What? So let’s embrace the obligation we have to give our children great beginnings and let’s start today. Summer is a perfect time for parents to ensure that students entering pre-kindergarten or kindergarten this fall are ready to begin their “formal education.” Accept their precious abilities and let’s begin to encourage “soft skills” even as we prepare them to learn to sing the alphabet song; identify upper and lower case letters; sort items by shape, size and color; and count to 20. They have a long way to go, but what they learn in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten will carry them for the rest of their lives. What they learn at home will begin this treasured process. Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She served as a teacher at Bear Elementary, assistant principal at Forest Avenue Elementary, principal at Garrett Elementary, and as an executive director of elementary schools. Most recently Allen has served as the professional development director for the system. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Names 2014 Mr. & Miss ACA

Alabama Christian Academy has named Steven Evans and Ivey Best as this year’s Mr. and Miss ACA. Mr. and Miss ACA awards are given to the two students who best represent Alabama Christian Academy. These individuals exemplify overall excellence in academics, leadership and spirituality. They possess high levels of integrity, self-discipline and courage. Evans is a young man who leads by example, quietly demonstrating the love of Christ to everyone he meets. During his time at ACA, he has been a scholar and an athlete, earning membership in several groups, including National Honor Society, SALT, and Athletic Ambassadors. He has been a successful athlete, playing football and participating on the track team. Evans is also active in his church, serving on several mission trips. With a heart for serving others and serving God, he is a fine example of ACA’s best. Best is a young woman who has excelled in many areas during her time at ACA. She has been an active participant and leader in many school groups including SGA, MUN, SALT, Band and Seven to Serve. Over the course of her high school career, Best has also been an integral member of the National Honor Society, Colorguard and Yearbook staff. She was ACA’s representative for both the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Conference and Alabama Girls’ State. She has spent her time at ACA pushing herself and her peers to be their very best in all aspects of their lives. Shown, Alabama Christian Academy senior advisor Donna Armstrong awards plaques to the 2014 Mr. & Miss ACA - Ivey Best and Steven Evans.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Floyd Tennis Teams Win City Championships

The Floyd Middle Magnet School Boys’ and Girls’ Tennis Teams won the 2014 Montgomery Public School City Championships. They won the team championship by defeating all the other Montgomery Public Middle Schools during the City Tournament at Lagoon Park. All four of the girls won their respective seeded singles matches and the boys won two of the four matches. This is the second year that the boys’ team has won the City Championship and the girls’ team was runner-up to Johnnie Carr last year. The members of the FMMS Tennis Teams are Kaitlin Truslow, Kelly Kim, Jaline Burt, Jordan Thompson, Ann Marie Tompkins, Austin Smith, John Solis, Zion Park, Daniel Choi and Caleb Barnes. They are coached by Dr. Diane Prothro. This is Floyd’s second year having an athletic program.

Catholic First-Graders Build Campus Garden

The first-graders at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Holy Spirit Elementary campus built a garden on campus as part of their on-going science study of plants. Emily Younker, one of the first-grade teachers, had the idea to give the gift of growth to the class, with plans for the entire school to enjoy and learn in the garden planted right outside school. On April 4 each first-grade student helped plant banana peppers, green peppers, two tomato plants, marigolds, lettuce, carrots, radishes, green beans and sunflowers. With the help of Holy Spirit Catholic Church parishioners, Master Gardener Karen Weber (a horticulturist in charge of the gardens at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival), and her husband Dennis (Wynlakes Golf Course superintendent), the first-grade teachers, Younker and Melissa Bertolotti, decided on a good area on campus for a raised bed garden. Dennis built the custom-raised bed and Karen helped both classes plant the vegetables and flowers. “Even though the first grade planted everything, our goal is to include the entire school in this experience,” Younker explained. “We just want every student and faculty member to enjoy the garden. The kids are really excited about tasting the vegetables they cultivated. One day, I hope to find a greater way for the kids to give back to the community somehow through our garden.” Shown, Master Gardener Karen Weber helps MCPS first-grade student Abbey Jones plant flowers in the new garden at the Holy Spirit Campus. 16

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MA Spanish Honor Society Inducts New Members

The Spanish Honor Society was founded by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese in August 1953. Its objective is to recognize the achievement of students enrolled in the American secondary schools and dedicated to the study of the Spanish language. The Montgomery Academy Marcelino Chapter was founded in 1957 and ever since, it has inducted a selected group of students to its prestigious rank on a yearly basis. On March 11, the Spanish Honor Society inducted the following members: John Wesley Barganier, Dawson Buettner, Min Seong Choi, Ivey Christine Henderson, Victoria Leigh Hughes, JungHyun Lee, Brenna Colleen Katz, Tae Hong Park, Anna Lawrence Peeples, Olivia Meriwether Rush, William Clark Sahlie and Sarah Lindsey Warwick. The Eagle Room showcased the traditional ceremony attended by students and family members. The ceremony was conducted by this year’s officers: President William Braswell Haynes; VicePresident John Ahn; Secretary-Treasurer Rachel Ashlyn Warwick; and Programs’ Chair Sarah Paige Massey. After the ceremony, the new inductees enjoyed the welcoming and camaraderie of the Chapter’s Sponsors and the senior members of the Society.

Trinity’s Wilder Pummels State Softball Record

Trinity Presbyterian School student Claire Wilder got her 300th career hit during a 7-1 win against St. James. Wilder joins a handful of other players who have set the same State softball record. She was recognized in a ceremony where she was presented with an encased commemorative softball by Athletic Director Harold Hilliard on May 1, before the first game of the area tournament, which Trinity won— for the fourth time in a row. Shown are Coach Angela Barkman Fant, Clair Wilder, Coach Richard Honel and Softball Head Coach Gennie Honel.

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Macon Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Veach Named 2014 Hitchcock Nominee

Success Unlimited Visits the Symphony

Success Unlimited Academy believes in providing opportunities for students in academics and fine arts. In February, the 7th- and 8th-grade students attended a school performance of the Montgomery Symphony at the Joe L. Reed Acadome on the campus of Alabama State University. SUA joined other middle school students in the tri-county area for a delightful cultural experience.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Macon East Academy recognizes Mary Kaylin Veach as a 2014 Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award nominee. Veach, along with 51 other area high school seniors, was nominated to represent MEA at the annual Hitchcock banquet held May 1 at Frazer Memorial Church. The objective of the program, sponsored by the Montgomery YMCA, is to recognize Christian leadership in athletics and encourage young men and women to emulate the man whose memory perpetuated this prestigious award. The qualities of a Hitchcock Award nominee include strong personal character, dependability, Christian leadership, team and school leadership, and a high academic standing. Veach participates on both the basketball and softball teams, and truly represents the qualities of this award both on and off campus. She is an active member of Vaughn Forest Church and plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall. Veach has received many other accolades this year including the Wendyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s High School Heisman and the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award. Active in the Student Government Association, Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, National Honor Society, Leo Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Community Service, she is a leader in all aspects of student life. Macon East was also represented at the Hitchcock banquet by freshman honorees Sami Nesbitt and Rai Pritchett.

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Holy Spirit Student Enjoys Volunteering

McKee Students Win District Band Awards

McKee Middle School students won more than 20 top awards during the District VI All State Band Festival held in in Auburn recently. McKee band students, under the direction of Mark Bass, received 17 first-place medals and three second-place medals at the competition.

Montgomery Catholic Holy Spirit campus fifth-grade student Joey Tarlavsky spends his time away from school as a junior volunteer for the Montgomery Humane Society. Tarlavskyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s volunteer work includes walking dogs, refilling water bowls, tidying the puppy rooms, and showcasing dogs at adoption events. He is shown at Earth Fare on April 1 with his canine friend, Kira. Tarlavskyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard work helped Kira get adopted that day by her new forever family! Joey is the son of Tricia and Don Kirk of Pike Road.

MTEC Students Honored at Luncheon

From left, Montgomery Technical Education Center, Advertising Design Technology students Adarian Burney-Lacey and Jared McDuffie both were honored at the 2014 Ability Counts Poster Journalism Awards Luncheon April 24. The Luncheon was held at the Capital City Club, RSA Tower. McDuffie won First Place and Burney-Lacey won third place. The parents of both students and Mr. Thomas joined the students for the lunch and recognition.

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STJ Junior Tapped for Special MIT Program

Floyd Staff Judges Johnson Reading Fair

Floyd Elementary School librarian Cynthia Sankey and instructional coach Angela Richardson were judges at the Seth Johnson Elementary Reading Fair April 18. Sankey is shown judging fourthand fifth-graders’ projects. Sankey also received one of the 2014 Applause Awards from the Montgomery County Council PTA on April 27 at the PTA Reflections Awards Program. The Applause Awards are given to honor individual PTA members who model integrity, teamwork and exemplary volunteerism in our schools.

Saint James School junior Justin Lee has been selected to join the 2014 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Online Science, Technology, and Engineering Community (MOSTEC). The prestigious MOSTEC program is free to students who are selected and provides an enriching, mostly online, experience from July 2014 - January 2015, as the students submit their college applications. The purpose of the MOSTC program is to develop a national group of students who are equipped to have a successful college and lifetime career in technical disciplines. From July 29 through August 2, students are invited to an exclusive five-day/four-night conference on the MIT campus to present completed project coursework, take engineering workshops, tour the lab and industry facilities, attend a college admissions panel, participate in social events, and meet MIT faculty, staff and students. Before their end-of-summer visit to MIT, participants must complete 25 or more hours of online coursework per week in science, engineering and technical writing during the Summer Academic Phase of the program. This year’s projects will be Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering, Astrophysics, Combinatorics, Electrical Engineering, Neuroscience/Connectomics, and Robotics/ Computer Science, along with a Science Writing Elective. When the summer ends, students enter the Enrichment Phase (August – January) and continue to learn more about science and engineering, interacting with college faculty and staff and receiving online mentorship from undergraduates and graduates students, and industry professionals.

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ECA Students Place At District Art Show

Several students from Evangel Christian Academy recently represented their school at the AISA District 5 Art Show. The annual event was held at Morgan Academy in Selma. ECA had numerous students receive ribbons. In the Kindergarten and First Grade Water Base Division Kaylee Carter won 1st place and Brooklynn Ruffin won 3rd. In Collage/Mixed Media, John Chon won 1st place and Carter came in 3rd. In the older elementary division several students also received awards. In the Water Base Category, Kendall Hardaway won 1st place and Khaliyah Kendrick won 3rd place. Jayden Smith placed 3rd in Painting. In the High School Division, Mary Beth Peters won 1st place in 3D Arts and Crafts. All of the first-place winners will advance to the state competition.

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Eastwood Beekeepers Share with Third Grade

From left, Eastwood Christian School thirdgrade alumni Jack Fuhrman and George Coley surprised current third-graders with a special bee presentation. The Coley and Fuhrman families share ownership of the Pine Level Bee Company. After observing their parents care for the bees, retrieve the honey, and make various bee products, Fuhrman and Coley volunteered to share with students what they have learned about bees.

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STJ Volunteers Log Community Service Hours

ACA Seniors Win C-SPAN StudentCam Award Alabama Christian Academy seniors Ivey Best and Marlee Morgan were awarded certificates and $250 from the C-SPAN StudentCam 2014 project. Out of more than 2300 entries, Best and Morgan received honorable mention in the competition for their video entitled “ABCs for College Degrees” regarding the impact of preschool on education, and they are the only students in the River Region to receive an award from the C-SPAN competition. Debbie Lamb, a representative from C-SPAN, attended an ACA assembly to present the students their awards and talk with the student body about the importance of programs like the StudentCam project, as well as the significance of getting involved in current events and learning about political issues that affect our communities and our nation. ACA students in AP Government participated in C-Span’s StudentCam 2014, a nation-wide video documentary contest that encouraged students to address the question, “What’s the most important issue Congress should address in 2014?” Each student from the class produced 5-7 minute video documentaries to submit in the competition. For more information on C-Span’s Student Cam, visit http://www.studentcam.org. Alabama Christian Academy teacher Susan Picken, seniors Ivey Best and Marlee Morgan, and C-SPAN producer Debbie Lamb show off awards the students were given for their StudentCam 2014 project.

Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Saint James high schoolers volunteered at 13 area non-profit organizations on April 2 for a total 1,080 hours of community service. Between cleaning stalls for MANE, doing activities with the elderly at Elmcroft, helping care for and play with children at The Children’s Center, sprucing up the grounds at Reamount Cemetery, helping the Montgomery Clean City Commission tear down a house and working with officials at the Museum of Fine Arts to prepare for the Flimp Festival (just to name a few of the sites where students volunteered), the work was fulfilling to students and worthwhile for the agencies they assisted. The event was entirely organized by the students themselves, led by SGA President Abigail Greenberg and Vice President Borden Cater. Shown, STJ senior Duncan Blackwell and classmates volunteer with the Montgomery Clean City Commission during the school’s annual Community Day.

BrewTech, Bear Students Win Alabama Law Day Contest

Montgomery Public School students from Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School and Bear Exploration Center were winners in the Alabama State Bar’s Annual Law Day Contest. The Law Day theme this year was “Why Every Vote Matters.” Students were recognized at an awards ceremony at the Heflin-Torbert Judicial Building. Chief Judge Keith Watkins spoke to the students and presented them with their awards. Bear Exploration Center fourth-grader Lauren Bonikowski wo n second place in the poster category. BrewTech student Cordell Thomas won third place in the Twitter category and BrewTech students Diamond Alexander, Tatiana Thomas and Malisa Ray won 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place in the Facebook category.

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Catholic Students Win First in AWF Art Contest

Montgomery Catholic students Mally Barranco and Emma Garrison each won first place in their age group in the Alabama Wildlife Federation’s 2014 William R. Ireland, Sr. Wildlife Youth Art Contest. The students, pictured with Montgomery Catholic Holy Spirit campus art teacher Leigh Dennis, were honored at a banquet on April 12. Barranco, second grade, won first place in the grade K-2 category. She drew a Barred Owl in colored pencil. Garrison, fifth grade, won first place in the grade 3-5 category. She drew an Eastern Screech Owl in colored pencil and chalk pastel. Each student received a plaque, blue ribbon and an art bag full of supplies. Mally is the daughter of Katherine and John David Barranco of Montgomery; she is in Ellie Burden’s second-grade class. Emma is the daughter of Barb and Al Garrison of Montgomery; she is in Ann Berher’s fifth-grade class. 22

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Macon East Soccer Teams Finish Second in State

Both the boys’ and girls’ soccer teams at Macon East Academy finished as the AISA State Runners-up in the fourth year of the school’s soccer program. The varsity boys’ team ended the season as the Region champs with a record of 15 and 2. Senior Daniel Lee and sophomore Jem Stubblefield led the team in scoring with 31 and 24 goals respectively. Stubblefield also led the team in assists with 11 for the season. The 2014 team set many school soccer records for the Knights scoring a total of 68 goals and giving up just 29. The boys lost the final match-up in the State tournament to Coosa Valley Academy, in penalty kicks. Stubblefield, Jae Park and D.D. Davis were selected to the All-Tournament team. Lee received the Hartley Carter Award in memory of former Macon East student and soccer player Hartley Carter. The Lady Knights soccer team also finished the season with the best record in school history at 10 and 3. Dallas Sanders (junior) led the team all year with 16 goals, followed by Rai Pritchett (freshman) with 6. Pritchett also was the team leader in assists. Overall the Lady Knights scored 30 goals this season and gave up 24. It was also a record breaking year for the girls’ team as Macon East continues to grow its soccer program. In the state title game, Macon East fell to Glenwood School by a score of 3-2. Representing Macon East on the All-Tournament team at the AISA State tournament was: Kelsey Granger, Dallas Sanders and Sami Nesbitt. Senior Mason Estes received this year’s Hartley Carter Memorial Award. Coach Peter Baubles has built a successful soccer program in just four seasons.

Floyd Holds Funeral for ‘I Can’t’ as Motivation

In preparation for the ACT Aspire national test, Floyd Elementary held a funeral for “I Can’t.” Third- through fifth-grade students wrote statements of self-defeat and placed them in a box for burial. Ibrahim Lee, Bellingrath Middle School’s principal, officiated the event on school grounds. Fifty blue balloons were released while the students celebrated and danced. The school’s pep rally immediately followed inside with music courtesy of Floyd Middle Magnet’s band. 23

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T Forest Avenue’s Kim Wins Essay Contest

Forest Avenue student Chan Kim was named the grand-prize winner in BIC Company’s 2013 Quality Comes in Writing essay contest. His essay was chosen out of more than 5,000 essays that were received across the country. He won an Apple iPad 2, iPad Smart Case, Apple wireless keyboard, 100iTunes gift card and a BIC Tech 2 Stylus and pen. His essay was about the importance of being kind to others. Kindess is multiplied when we remember that human connections are important.

MA Senior Wins Award For Buddy Program

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Members of Montgomery Academy’s Interpersonal Relations class attended the annual Interpersonal Big Buddy Awards luncheon hosted by the YMCA at the Capital City Club April 10. The Interpersonal Relations Youth Leadership Program (IPRYL) is a collaboration between the YMCA, Montgomery Public Schools, and independent schools. High school seniors (Big Buddies) are paired with 1st - 3rd graders in local elementary schools (Little Buddies) in a mentoring relationship three days a week in the Little Buddy’s school. MA senior Emmie Chambers won the Jamie Gilliland Spirit Award for her outstanding work in the Buddy Program.

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Trinityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hampton Named 2014 Hitchcock Winner

Janie Hampton was named the 2014 female Jimmy Hitchcock Award Recipient on May 1 at the 55th Jimmy Hitchcock annual program held at Frazer United Methodist Church. Hampton attends First United Methodist Church and is the daughter of Jim and Gail Hampton. She lettered in soccer, volleyball and basketball. She is a member of the National Honor Society, the French Club, the Forensics Club, the Key Club, and was a finalist in the Wendyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s High School Heisman Program. Hampton plans to attend Auburn University and major in biomedical science with the goal of attending medical school. The Jimmy Hitchcock Award is given to a senior athlete who exhibits outstanding Christian leadership. Hampton was one of 56 Montgomery County students nominated. The prestigious award has been given out for over a century and Trinity has accumulated more recipients than any other independent school in the River Region. From left are Basketball Head Coach Blake Smith, Janie Hampton and Head of School Kerry Palmer.

ECA Holds Annual Walk-a-thon

Evangel Christian Academy recently held its 11th annual walk-a-thon. Students from kindergarten through twelfth grade participated in the event. After the students walked the required amount of laps, the entire school was treated to a picnic lunch and the classes enjoyed games and field events.

Floyd Elementary first-grade teacher Chauntella Ware talked to students about lupus during a school assembly held during Lupus Awareness Month. Ware, who suffers from lupus, talked to students about symptoms of the autoimmune disease, how it is treated and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She and first-grade teacher Ann Buggs, who also has lupus, sponsored several awareness activities which included a poster and bulletin board made of butterflies, depicting the butterfly-like rash that is characteristic of lupus. In addition, Ware will be the guest presenter in Birmingham on June 28 for the State Lupus Poster Celebration.

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ACA Junior Varsity Baseball Clenches Montgomery Championship

Alabama Christian Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s junior varsity baseball team clenched the Capitol City Championship this year. The team ended the year with a season record of 18-6 and a CCC record of 9-3. The ACA baseball program has won two state titles and continues to build teams based on commitment, hard work and teamwork. Varsity coach is Don Gilliam. Shown are Alabama Christian Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s JV baseball team with Coach Brent Teel.

Eastwood Students Tops In National Latin Exam

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The following students were the top finishers at Eastwood Christian School for the National Latin Exam. From left are: Erin Powe (Latin 2) Gold Medalist (summa cum laude); Sarah Gillis (Latin 2) Silver Medalist (maxima cum laude); Jake Lane (Introductory Latin) Ribbon Finalist; Anna Kometer (Latin 3) Silver Medalist (maxima cum laude); and Murray Babington (Latin 2) Silver Medalist (maxima cum laude). The National Latin Exam also recognized 13 other students from Eastwood for scoring well on the exam.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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Catholic NHS Inducts 22 New Members

The Loretto Chapter of the National Honor Society at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School inducted twenty-two new members during an Induction Ceremony April 7 at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Dolly Barranco Activity Center. The National Honor Society (NHS), established in 1921, is a national recognition program for students who show achievement in scholarship, leadership, service and character. High school students are selected for membership through an application process and are selected by the faculty council. Candidates must meet the chapter’s requirement for scholarship, service, leadership and character in order to be selected for membership. Continued participation in service projects and upholding the ideals of the school are required to retain membership. Members must also maintain the chapter’s required cumulative gradepoint average. A reception was held for the new members and their families immediately followed the ceremony. The newly inducted members of the Loretto Chapter of the National Honor Society at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School are seniors Brett Foxworth, John Haynes, Howard Vaughan, and Kirstin Wood and juniors Joseph Armstrong, Carolyn Barranco, Andrew Ellis, Ann Faulkner, Brianna Foley, Lindsey Guin, Aliceann Harper, Jacob Hulcher, Ashley Karst, Derek Kelly, Ashley Kim, Mary Janet McLaughlin, Olivia Nobles, Leo Petters, Monica Poole, Foster Smith, Allyson Taylor, Lindsey Tynan and Margaret von Gal.

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Academy Art Student Wins Youth Symphony Competition

Montgomery Academy junior Miso Kim is the 2014 national winner of the First Art competition sponsored by the New York Youth Symphony that seeks to reward emerging artists and illustrators. Each season, a young American artist receives a juried prize of $1,000 for a new visual illustration celebrating the spirit of music as exemplified by the New York Youth Symphony. Kim created the poster by painting her hand, photographing it on top of her watercolor wash and piano design, and then imposed text on top of all of it.

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STJ Students Place First in State TEAMS

Saint James School’s ninth- and tenthgrade math teams won First Place in the State of Alabama for their performance on Part One of the Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics, and Science (TEAMS) competition held at Auburn University following the University’s Engineering Day Open House. STJ students Isabel Blancett, Jeronne Carter, Gabe Wiggins and Gyuna Kim competed for three hours in an event focused on “Engineering Tomorrow’s Cities--Improving Urban Infrastructure.” Composed of two parts, the first section consisted mainly of solving problems related to creating energy efficient buildings, designing urban green space, upgrading the water system and the electrical grid, and decreasing noise pollution. The second part of the competition, which will be scored at the national headquarters for TEAMS, was a series of five essays on these same topics. Also competing in the event were STJ’s eleventh- and twelfth-grade team of Duncan Blackwell, Matthew Garnett, John Kim, Evan Border, Emma Frakes, Justin Peifer, Michael Fritz and David Ye. Both teams have already qualified for the National TEAMS competition to be held in Washington, D.C., in late June. In all, sixteen STJ students attended Auburn University’s Engineering Day Open House. The students visited exhibits of various engineering disciplines, and toured Auburn University’s Engineering Department, learning about the curricula, opportunities to participate in ongoing research projects and competition programs (such as building race cars). They also received information on scholarships, the school’s co-op program, and academic societies. From left, Gabe Wiggins, Isabel Blancett, Jeronne Carter and Gyuna Kim took home the State First Place win in the Tests of Engineering, Aptitude, Mathematics and Science (TEAMS) during Auburn University’s Competition in late February.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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Macon East Softball Team Finishes State Champions

The Macon East Academy varsity softball team finished on top again this year at the AISA State tournament held May 2-3 at Lagoon Park. Finishing 47 and 7 on the season, the girls dominated the state tournament. Winning the championship game against Springwood Academy 11-1 with a grand slam by junior Cameron Redding, the girls have earned an impressive three-in-a-row state titles. The Knights put up double digit scores in all but one game in the state tournament, winning all three games leading up to the championship. Jesi Garrett, Deven Kennedy (MVP), Paxton Searle and Bailey Singleton were chosen to represent MEA on the all-tournament team. Kennedy returned this season from a back injury and was a force to contend with on the mound for the Knights pitching a no-hitter in an 11-0 win over Glenwood. Kennedy and four other juniors will go on to lead the lady Knights next season. The team retires just two seniors, Anna Marie Pugh and Mary Kaylin Veach. Cameron Redding, Mari Beth Baker, Kennedy, Pugh, Singleton and Veach will represent Macon East in the AISA All-Star Softball game June 3 at Lagoon Park. With a young team of quality players, Coach Glynn Lott and the Lady Knights will continue to be in contention for the state title for the next few seasons.

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Success Unlimited Visits Hyundai

Success Unlimited Academy 7th- and 8thgrade students toured the Hyundai plant facilities in Montgomery recently. As part of their pre-vocational curriculum, the students were able to see how efficiently and professionally Hyundai operates. They were intrigued by the use of robotics and the advanced technologies used. They were very excited to learn about the many job opportunities that are available in one facility. “It was a great being able to expose the students to such a positive work experience,” stated teacher Sue James. “Hopefully, some may be interested in employment at the Hyundai Plant in the near future.”

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Lady Vols Win Class 6A Championship

For the second year in a row, the Jeff Davis Lady Vols have won the Class 6A Area 6 Tournament (24-13). The Lady Vols defeated Lanier 17-2 and Carver 16-0 before defeating Robert E. Lee 8-5 in the championship game. The Lady Vols will now advance to the Regional Tournament in Troy.

Macon East Participates In District & State Art Shows Macon East students had 66 pieces of art entered in the AISA District Art Show held April 10 at Lee-Scott Academy. Firstplace winners in grades 1-9, as well as first- and second-place winners in grades 10-12, advanced to the State competition April 25 at Faulkner University. Overall Macon East had 13 pieces advance to State. MEA art students were awarded 3 of the 5 Best of Show ribbons presented at District. District winners in Kindergarten-1st grade were Addison Little, Clayton Bizzle and Grayson Cook. Taylor Holley, Blayne Tompkins and Hannah Kate Hodges (Best of Show) were winners in the 2nd-3rd division. In 4th-6th grades Gavin Justice received a firstplace ribbon and Eric Kim was awarded both a first-place and Best of Show ribbon. Several 7th-9th artists were honored at district and five of their entries advanced to state. They are Mary Brooks Thomas, Bailey Bissonette, Zack Peacock, Sam Pittenger, Rai Pritchett, Hannah Johnson, Nate Center, Brian Major, Jaycee Cook and Thomas Rutland (Best of Show). In 10th-12th grades, Jessica Gulsby had two of her three district entries advance to state. Other high school students receiving recognition at district were: Kirksey Jones, Brianna Craig and Alex DeVos. Shown above, in the AISA State Art Show at Faulkner University, three of the 13 Macon East entries were awarded ribbons of excellence. Hannah Johnson received second place for photography. Sixth-grader Eric Kim also received a second-place ribbon for his non-color drawing, and Thomas Rutland was awarded firstplace honors in the collage/mixed media category. Art instructor is Tiffany Ala. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

STJ Tennis Teams Are State Runners-Up

Saint James Varsity Boys and Girls competed in the 4A AHSAA Tennis State Tournament in Decatur April. 21-22. With strong performances by all players, both the boys and girls teams were awarded State Runner-Up trophies. Second only to UMS-Wright out of Mobile, the boys competed against ten Alabama High School teams. Mason Blackwell (Line 1 Singles) and Aaron Skier (Line 3 Singles) were both awarded State Championship Titles. Stephen Sadie (Line 2 Singles) was a State Finalist. Channy Blackwell and Aaron Skier (Line 3 Doubles) were awarded the State Championship Title. Again, second only to UMS-Wright, the girls competed against the same Alabama high school teams to claim the title of State Runner-Up. Cassie Sadie/ Clayton Waring (Line 2 Doubles) were awarded the State Championship title. Ellyn Livings/ Charlsie Rampy (Line 1 Doubles) and Annie Sparrow /Scottlyn Patterson (Line 3 Doubles) were all State Finalists as well. In singles, Cassie Sadie (Line 1), Ellyn Livings (Line 4) and Annie Sparrow (Line 6) were all State Finalists. STJ seniors Michael Azar, Duncan Blackwell, Ellyn Livings, Scottlyn Patterson, Charlsie Rampy and Ricardo Rios concluded their last year of high school tennis with a winning season and a great showing at state. The girls secured STJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Team Runner Up Title and the boys brought home their third Team Runner Up Title in three years! Both STJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boys and girls tennis teams were named State-Runners-Up at the State Tournament held in Decatur April 21-22.

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ACA Students Perform in First School Musical

Catholic Junior Chosen for Summer Science Program

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School junior Ann Faulkner has been invited to attend the Summer Science Institute (S.S.I) at Auburn University this June. The Summer Science Institute sponsored by the College of Math and Science at Auburn University is designed for rising 11th- and 12th-grade students with high aptitude and interest in the fields of math and science. Students will be partnered with experienced Auburn University math and science research faculty to explore more advanced topics than typically studied in high school. Faulkner is one of only sixteen students chosen to attend the week-long program. She is the daughter of Amy and Charles White of Montgomery.

Alabama Christian Academy’s fifth-grade students recently had the opportunity to perform and run the school’s first large-scale elementary musical, Dear Edwina, Jr. The twenty-six member crew of fifth-graders was responsible for organizing, performing and running the performance. They had the opportunity to make the props and select costumes, as well as operate the stage lights, sound system and spotlights. The production was featured in two performances in early May for ACA elementary students, parents and general public. The show was the focus of this year’s fifth-grade music classes, showcasing a 37-member cast including students with various levels of experience in musical theater. Ella Grace Johns and Steven Vickers, frequent faces on the stage at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, played the leads in the show: Edwina and her stage opposite, Scott, respectively. Alabama Christian Academy’s elementary music teacher Kari Kelly is a musical theater graduate of Faulkner University and continues to coordinate productions herself in addition to instructing her young students in music, theater and the arts. Shown, ACA fifth-graders Stephen Vickers, Ella Grace Johns, Sadie Bissonette, Emily Daniel, Joonsung Lee, Belle Johnson and Brooks Hatcher are shown here in a scene from the recent performance of Dear Edwina, Jr.

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Trinity Senior Signs Auburn Scholarship

Eastwood Seniors Inducted Into French Honor Society

From left, Eastwood Christian School seniors Jack Harmon and Alex Foxx were both inducted into the French Honor Society for maintaining an A average throughout their French courses at Eastwood and an A/B average for all other courses.

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Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Trinity Presbyterian School senior Wesley Curles signed his National Letter of Intent for track and cross country with Auburn University on April 28 in a ceremony held in the Trinity gym. Local media, including representatives from WSFA and The Montgomery Advertiser, were present, as well as Curles’s parents Laurie and Patrick Curles, along with teammates, friends and family. Just recently, Curles led Trinity’s boys’ track team to first place in the sectionals where he placed first in the 800m, 1600m, and the 3200m. Last year he won the 2013 Class 3A Championship in three events, helping the Trinity Wildcats finish second in the team standings. Curles set the 3A records in the 5K and l-mile divisions. He was also selected as the “All-Metro Track and Field Boys Athlete of the Year” and The Montgomery Advertiser “Cross Country Runner of the Year” for the past three years. He had the AllMetro area’s top times in 2013 for the 800m, 1,600m and 3,200m. The Alabama High School Athletic Association named Wesley Curles the regional Bryant-Jordan Scholar Athlete and he is one of only two students in the history of Trinity School to make it to the state level of the Wendy’s Heisman Program. Shown, Patrick and Laurie Curles, Wesley Curles, Track Head Coach George Mardre and Trinity Athletic Director Harold Hilliard.

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Academy Upper School Chorus Receives ‘Superior’ National Ratings

The Montgomery Academy Upper School Chorus received “Superior Ratings” (94/100) and earned second place in the 3A division (schools with an average of 1,500-2,500 students in high school) in the Heritage National Choral Competition in San Diego, California. Damion Womack, Upper School Director, chose to compete in this division because it is very competitive and the most rewarding. The students competed against schools from Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, New York, North Carolina, Alaska, Louisiana and Nevada. In the past five years, MA students have consistently ranked in the top two when competing on the national level.

Macon East Academy Class of 2013 graduate Karson Loomis was recently inducted into Samford University’s Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society. Alpha Lambda Delta, founded in 1924, is an honor society for students who achieve a 3.5 or higher GPA and are in the top 20% of their class during their first year of higher education. For this year’s class of inductees at Samford, the GPA requirement was 3.76 or higher. During his freshman year at Samford, Loomis was involved in numerous campus organizations and activities including SGA Student Activities Council, Shiloh Weekly Worship Experience event volunteer, Home Group facilitator and Freshman Representative Council. Beginning in the fall, Loomis will serve as the Spiritual Life Intern for University Missions. He is the son of Macon East second-grade teacher Kathy Loomis and Keith Loomis. While at Samford, he is majoring in Sports Administration with a minor in Sports Ministry.

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Evangel Students Help Orphans

The Student Government Association at Evangel Christian Academy recently collected items to give to the orphans in Moldova. Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe. The orphans who live there lack the basic essentials. The students at ECA worked hard to collect items to help meet this need. The children collected socks and undergarments to send overseas. The items were distributed through Stella’s Voice, a division of Philip Cameron Ministries.

STJ Runner Crushes State Record In 4A 3200m Event

Saint James School junior Rachael Yergensen came home from the State Track and Field Tournament May 2-3 as the 4A 3200m State Champion and owner of the State 4A Record of 11:16:06. Yergensen crushed the old mark by 16 seconds in a dominating performance that left her more than 24 seconds ahead of her nearest rival. Yergensen also brought home medals in the 1600 (Second Place), and the 800 (Third Place) to give her a triple set of wins. Yergensen led the STJ girls’ team in points with 24, putting STJ in Eighth Place in the State girls finish out of 24 team participants. “That’s pretty good,” said Coach Sally Taunton, “considering we only had four girls racing against the large teams.” Girls’ point contributors were Emma Matthews, Sara Kean, Sailor Miles and Yergensen, who finished Sixth in the 4x800 Relay, and Sailor Miles (Fifth in the 3200, Eighth in the 1600). The boys’ team was led by thrower Michael Robinson, who had an outstanding performance in the discus to grab a Third Place medal. Justin Peifer scored points in the 3200 to finish Fifth with a personal best that was one second away from the school record. The boys’ 4x800 team of Jake Maddox, Gustav Edstrom, Zac Swearingen and Peifer came home 14th. John Sullivan finished 13th in the Javelin. Assistant Coach Zak Sollie, Head Coach Sally Taunton, and STJ Athletic Director Jerry Browning all played pivotal roles in the STJ Track and Field Team’s successful season.

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Academy Art Teacher Earns Grant to Study in India

Montgomery Academy Lower School Art Teacher Bee Lee Tullos is taking off for foreign parts this summer….again. Having already traveled to Turkey, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Japan, Italy, Mexico, Germany, Spain, France and South Korea, Tullos has just bought a plane ticket for India. She will spend a month there this summer on a grant from an organization called Fund for Teachers. Fund for Teachers funds proposals from teachers in all grades and all disciplines. Applicants submit a plan for a summer course of study and its implementation in their classes after their return. The application asks for duration, location(s) and costs, all of which are designated by the teacher with no preexisting requirements from the agency. Grant proposals must identify specific learning and teaching goals, which are unique to each instructor and his or her school. Tullos has received a grant for a dream trip and curriculum. She will travel to Nepal as well as to Delhi and many other locations in India, learning about and working with handmade paper, textile block printing and floral designs. Before she leaves she will study the three major religions of the country and how they affect art and architecture. As part of next year’s Culture Study of India at the Lower School, students will produce their own creations in the arts that Tullos will be focusing on this summer. As a bonus, Tullos will be able to spend time with at least one MA family who will be visiting relatives in India at the same time she is there. She will spend her first week receiving an insider’s view of Delhi from the Sharmas and may get a chance to meet up with the Singh family as well. Tullos will bring wonderful things to her students from her immersion in the arts and culture of India—not only handson experience with unique art forms, but also an enriching body of knowledge. 35

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Macon East Holds Annual Blood Drive

The Student Government Association held its annual Blood Drive April 16. Each year the SGA partners with LifeSouth Community Blood Center to sponsor an on-campus blood drive. Thirty-four pints of blood were donated by students, teachers and parents.

STJ Senior Chosen for Madison Scouts Tour

Saint James senior Alexander Chung has been selected for the 2014 Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps in Madison, Wisconsin. As a member of this prestigious group Chung will travel throughout the country from mid-June until August, performing with his fellow drum and bugle corps members each evening and participating at the highest level of marching music. The tour culminates with the Drum Corps International World Championships in Indianapolis. Madison Scouts was founded in 1938 by a group of Wisconsin businessmen as a Boy Scout drum and bugle corps. Often referred to simply as “Madison” or “The Scouts,” the corps has won the DCI World Championship title twice, in 1975 and again in 1988. The all-male corps is one of the oldest continually operating groups competing in Drum Corps International events. To receive an invitation from the Madison Scouts, Chung participated in a rigorous audition lasting several months. The auditions took place both in-person and online, via Google Hangouts. In late February Chung was offered a contract to become a Madison Scout. He and his fellow Scouts will tour the U.S. throughout the summer, in a bus tour covering more than 12,000 miles. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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Catholic Science Olympiad Teams Finish in State Top Ten

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s (MCPS) High School and Middle School Science Olympiad Teams competed in the State Science Olympiad competition on April 12 at Huntingdon College in Montgomery. The team composed of students from grades seven through twelve, came away with four first-place, two third-place and three fourth-place finishes out of the 22 events. The teams as a whole finished 10th in the High School Science Olympiad competition and 8th for the Middle School team in the State of Alabama. Earning individual honors for the Montgomery Catholic High School team were: 1st place in Experimental Design: Guillermo Ravelo, Allie Micherm and Frank Gonzalez; 1st place in Bungee Drop: Katie McDaniel and Guillermo Ravelo; 3rd place in Water Quality: Marissa Dogan and Allie Micher; and 4th place in Entomology: Marissa Dogan and Allie Micher. Earning individual honors for the Montgomery Catholic Middle School team were: 1st place in Heredity: Henry Petters; 1st place in Metric Mastery: Lida Blackburn and Hyun Joo; 3rd place in Sounds of Music: Henry Petters and Clint Williams; 4th place in Can’t Judge a Powder: Clint Williams and Hyun Joo; 4th place in Entomology: Jonah Gier and Jevon Murdock. Team sponsors at Montgomery Catholic include: High School teachers Elizabeth Harbin, Jeanene Crenshaw, Joe Profio and Monica Hamell; and Middle School teachers Vicki Petters and Julie Flowers. Shown, Montgomery Catholic High School Science Olympiad Team places in the top 10 at State Competition.

Southlawn Middle Rockets Named City Track Champs Southlawn Middle School Coach Jackie Reynolds and the Rockets have won the Boys’ 2014 City Relays and Boys’ City Track championship, where they scored a whopping 118 points! 36

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Floyd Middle Magnet Soccer Team Wins City Championship

The Floyd Middle Magnet School (FMMS) Panther Soccer Team won the 2013-2014 Montgomery Public Middle School City Soccer Championship in March by defeating Johnnie Carr Middle School in overtime in the championship game. At the end of regular play with a scoreless game, the game went to overtime penalty kicks with the Floyd Panthers outscoring the previously undefeated Carr team 3-1. The FMMS Soccer Team defeated Georgia Washington Middle School by 3-0 in the semi-finals to move into the championship game. The FMMS Soccer Team had a regular season record of six wins and three losses. During the MPS soccer season, the Floyd Panthers were only scored on four times during regular play, excluding overtime penalty kicks. 2014 is only the second year that FMMS has had a soccer program. Coached by Quinton Turner and assisted by Toney Symister, the FMMS Soccer Team is a co-educational team comprised of eight girls and seventeen boys from the 7thand 8th-grade classes at Floyd Middle Magnet School. The 25 members of the championship team are Alexis Card, Anika Hutton, Arin Card, Brianna Childs, Hannah Richardson, Megan Parker, Niyah Martin, Rachel Roberts, Alex West, Angel Molina, Brantley Gandy, Brett Bonikowski, Collin Lawlor, Daniel Walters, Daniel Choi, Elijah Weston, Hayes Colvin, Hunter Atkins, Ian Robinson, Jalen Bynum, Justin Tran, Nathan Reed, Rion Chon, Theo Akwuba and Zion Park.

Academy Senior Wins Democracy Award

Montgomery Academy seniors Lillian Roth and William Haynes and Dean of Students Andy Roth attended the Voter Education Symposium at Alabama State University hosted by the Montgomery Election Center. Topics of discussion included the new Alabama Photo ID law, youth engagement and the importance of voting, and the 2014 election calendar. Roth presented an original essay on the importance of youth voting, historical landmarks in suffrage, and political awareness. Judge Steven Reed and Director of Elections Daniel Baxter presented her with the Montgomery County Probate Democracy Award for her efforts. From left are Judge Steven Reed, Lillian Roth and Director of Elections Daniel Baxter.

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ACA’s NEHS Chapter Inducts New Members

Twenty-four new members were inducted recently into Alabama Christian Academy’s National Elementary Honor Society chapter. Students are awarded this honor for more than just academic achievements – these students must exhibit characteristics of the NHS’s traditional four pillars: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. As part of the traditional NHS ceremony, new inductees were taught about each NHS pillar from 2013-2014 fifth-grade NEHS students and also recited a pledge as part of the induction process. The presentation concluded with Elementary Principal Doug Black offering advice and encouragement to new members. New inductees include: fourth-graders Aly Blue, Ellie Coplen, Blair Davis, Megan Davis, Claire Forrester, Mitchell Hagan, Carson Horn, Mason Kimbro, Vivien Lin, Katey Madaris, Wynter Prempramot, Ian Pulse, Abby Russell, Emily Kate Sansom, Cayla Schofield, Garrett Weathers and Jordan Wilson; and fifth-graders Jake Bailey, Cassidy Cauthen, Jaron Craddock, Logan Hurley, Joonsung Lee, Caden Perry and Jean Ryu. Front row from left are Vivien Lin, Mason Kimbro, Carson Horn, Mitchell Hagan, Claire Forrester, Megan Davis, Blair Davis, Ellie Coplen and Aly Blue; middle row: Jordan Wilson, Garrett Weathers, Cayla Schofield, Emily Kate Sansom, Abby Russell, Ian Pulse, Wynter Prempramot and Katey Madaris; and back row: Caden Perry, Joonsung Lee, Logan Hurley, Jaron Craddock, Cassidy Cauthen and Jake Bailey.

Lighthouse Christian Celebrates End of Year

Lighthouse Christian Academy preschool and kindergarten classes celebrated the last weeks of school with days of fun. Shown is “Costume Day.”

Colonel Trent Edwards Speaks to Trinity Students

Air Force Colonel Trent Edwards was chosen to finish the “Leadership Speaker Series” that Trinity Presbyterian School has conducted throughout the year. Colonel Edwards is Commander, 42nd Air Base Wing, Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base. With this job comes the responsibility for providing all base operating support, infrastructure and services support for 25,000 active duty, Reserve, civilian and contractor personnel. Thousands of men and women are under his leadership. As Colonel Edwards came to Trinity on April 30, he made it his goal to inspire the students to take leadership roles, enlighten them on what a leader truly is, and also remind each student that he is capable of accomplishing anything. He began by explaining what components make up a leader. One major component of a leader is the ability to put others before yourself, and act with humility. Being a leader “means also being a team player,” he explained. You cannot lead if no one is following you. He also touched on the idea that a leader must not only be able to communicate with others, but also truly connect with them. With the ability to connect, one must also have self-awareness to truly lead others. Quoting Michael Jordan, Edwards said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times, I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” Edwards is shown speaking with Middle School Students Sam Farris, Miller Johnson, Zoe Portis, Ensley Craven and Paul Bishop. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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Eastwood Senior Participates in National French Competition

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Jack Harmon, a senior at Eastwood Christian School, has received the Certificat de Réussite, a certificate from the National French Competition. Jack is the son of Bart and Hollie Harmon of Montgomery. 38

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Catholic’s Thomas Signs to Play College Basketball

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School held a signing ceremony for senior Anthony Thomas inside the Library on the Montgomery Catholic high school campus April 9. Anthony Thomas, a two-time All-Metro selection for the Knights, will play college basketball at Faulkner State choosing the Sun Chiefs over Wallace in Andalusia. Thomas led the team in scoring and steals this year as he averaged 20 points and three steals per game for the season. Thomas was also selected MVP of the Knights of Columbus Thanksgiving Tournament and made all tournament team for the Daleville Holiday tournament, Trinity Holiday Tournament and 3A Area 3 Tournament. Thomas was joined by family, friends and teammates as MCPS President Anne Ceasar, Principal Chad Barwick and Varsity Basketball Coach Ken Klinger each spoke about his accomplishments at Montgomery Catholic. Thomas’ former coach Jack Moody looked on as his future Faulkner State coach Jack Robertson welcomed him to his new team. Thomas joins Sydney O’Connor (softball at the University of Mobile), James Sherman (football at Texas State) and Kirstin Wood (softball at Martin Methodist College) who will continue their athletic careers in the fall at the college level. Thomas is shown with his parents, Nakia and Anthony Thomas of Montgomery.

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STJ Freshman Wins Summer Trip to Korea

Saint James School freshman Suyoung Park, a student of STJ English teacher Kimberly Ramsey, is a first-place winner in the Alabama-Korea Education & Economic Partnership’s (A-KEEP) Two Lines Essay Contest. The competition, open to high school students, required an essay about Germany or Korea, two nations divided by war. Judges announced the winners at a ceremony on April 30 at the Rosa Parks Museum. Park’s submission was chosen from essays received from high school students in the central Alabama area. According to judges, her essay will be published in area newspapers and magazines. Park, born in Daegum, South Korea, won the A-KEEP competition for a 500-word essay inspired by her 66-year-old grandmother, who still lives in South Korea. The entry addressed familial hardships caused by the separation between North and South Korea. Park’s grandmother and her great-aunt (who lives in North Korea) have not been reunited since the two countries were divided some 60 years ago. For winning the contest, Park receives a free trip to Korea June 5-19. She is scheduled to learn about Korean culture at Hwarang for four days, have a home stay with Korean students for two days, and explore Korean culture and history in Kyungju for a week. With such a busy schedule, Park is not sure whether she’ll have an opportunity to visit with her grandmother while in Korea, but the ninth-grader says her family does plan to move back to their home country after Suyoung completes her sophomore year in high school. The Park family moved to the U.S. two years ago when Suyoung was in the seventh grade, drawn here because of her father’s work at Montgomery’s Hyundai plant. Though her family speaks Korean at home, Park says she has an even number of Korean and non-Korean friends here in Montgomery, and thinks the U.S. is a great country. Asked to compare U.S. and Korean schools, Parks says American schools aren’t as hard. “South Korean students have to stay at school until about 10 p.m.,” Park says. “I like it but it’s tiring. As a student, I like the U.S. system better.” Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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Catholic Students Give Back During Lenten Day of Service

Macon East Holds Grandparents Day

Macon East lower school students celebrated a special day with grandparents April 17. The first- through sixth-grade students performed songs and recited poems to a crowded auditorium of proud grandparents and special guests. After the performance, the students and their guests enjoyed a reception of cookies and punch. Many guests also visited the classrooms, checked out the Scholastic Book Fair, and took home a special gift made with love by their grandchild. On April 14, the Pre-School and Kindergarten building was overflowing with more than 110 grandparents for their Grandparents Day celebration. The K3, K4, and Kindergarten grandparents visited their grandchild’s room, enjoyed a delicious lunch together, and enjoyed watching the students perform songs and other things they had learned throughout the school year. Each guest also received a special craft made by their grandchildren.

Almost 300 Montgomery Catholic students in grades nine through twelve and faculty members spent a combined total of more than 900 hours volunteering the morning of April 11 for the school’s annual Lenten Day of Service. Montgomery Catholic Preparatory High School celebrated mass together on campus before beginning the service day. The organizations and agencies that were served by Montgomery Catholic high school students in the River Region included: COPE; The Montgomery Clean City Commission, City Councilman Richard Bollinger, MAX Credit Union and AARP Alabama and Gilmore Services Shredding Event; Transformations Montgomery, Catholic Social Services, Head Start Family Services Center, Fort Toulouse/ Jackson Historic Landmark, YMCA Camp Chandler (Wetumpka), Montgomery Zoo - Mann Museum, YMCA Camp Grandview; MACOA Senior Centers (Newtown Senior Center, Normandale Senior Center and Perry Hill Senior Center), The Girls Scouts, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School and Ida Bell Young Park. Montgomery Catholic Students at the Mann Museum include: Agnes Armstrong, Emily Barranco, Tabatha-Marie Barrera, Kathleen Beesley, Sarah Berryman, Courtney Brodgen, Kristina Davison, Aryian Dean, Kailyn Dean, Jennifer Doan, Marissa Dogan, Eryka Ellington, Claire Fischer, Abaigeal Gilbert, Summer Gurlaskie, Phoebe Hall, Pretria Harris, Stephanie Hayes, Mary Katherine Head, Katherine Herbek, Haleigh Huggins and Anna Marie Koerner.

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Trinity Principal Attends Ft. Benning Military Orientation The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) recently recognized Trinity for employing men and women who serve or have served in the military. Mallory Tidwell, a former fifth-grade Trinity teacher and National Guardsman who served in Afghanistan, nominated Lower School Principal Tami Shelley for this recognition. With this honor came the opportunity for Shelley to spend a weekend in Fort Benning, Georgia, with 25 other chosen honorees for a three-day military orientation. The trip to Fort Benning focused on what the young men and women of this country do to ensure our freedom each and every day. Fort Benning is a United States Army post located just outside of Columbus, Ga. The camp supports more than 120,000 active duty military, family members, reserve component soldiers, retirees, and civilian employees on a daily basis. It is a power projection platform, and possesses the capability to deploy combat-ready forces by air, rail, and highway. Shelley arrived at base camp in a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk and was soon sitting in a Bradley Fighting Vehicle (BFV). Afterwards, she had the unique opportunity to ride in an M1 Abrams tank—an experience American soldiers have every day while defending our country. The honorees also toured the National Infantry Museum, where they learned about the history of the infantry forces and the daunting task of defending our country. Shelley said her favorite part of the trip was attending a Ranger graduation. Ranger training at Ft. Benning began in September 1950, during the Korean War. Rangers are an elite group who go through an extra nine months of training focusing on the value of tough, realistic training. At the graduation, new Rangers exemplified their skills for the crowd in a series of feats, including scaling walls, diving out of helicopters, and dangling on telephone wires. “This was such a humbling moment for me, and I truly felt a new appreciation for those protecting us,” Shelley said.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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MA Speech & Debate Coach Elected to National Board

Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate coach Jay Rye has been elected to serve The National Speech & Debate Association board of directors for a four-year term. The National Speech & Debate Association is comprised of more than 3,500 high schools throughout the United States. With more than 100,000 active student members and more than 10,000 coaches, the eight elected members to the National Board of Directors oversee the operations of the organization including both oversight of the budget along with rules for speech and debate competition. A total of 68 coaches have served on the National Board of Directors since the organization began in 1925. The Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate Team captured the 2014 State Championship for Speech & Debate, bringing their total state championships to 14. MA is now third in the nation for the most State Championships for Speech & Debate.

ACA Students Inducted Into Mu Alpha Theta

Alabama Christian recently held an induction ceremony to welcome seven new members to ACAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mu Alpha Theta chapter. New members include Kaitlin Dinsmoore, Mary Hayes, Nick Jarrett, Javan Rampersand, Kat Rogers, Hannah Sager and David Swayne. The honors mathematics organization challenges students to maintain a B average or better in Algebra I & II as well as Geometry, and to be enrolled in or have successfully completed Pre-Calculus with the same grade requirements. The organization also strives to stimulate interest in mathematics by publicly recognizing the superior academic performance of these students and by promoting math-related activities. Pictured are members of Mu Alpha Theta including the new inductees: back row, Nathan McCroskey, Stewart Torode and Nick Jarrett; middle row, Cloe Baker, Ivey Best, Niya Alozie, Logan McKissick, Erica Honaker, Kat Rogers and Javan Rampersand; and front row, Mary Hayes, Hannah Sager, Kaitlin Dinsmoore and Victoria Conner.

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Floyd Middle Magnet Faculty Receives County Awards Coleman Woodson has earned the title of “Outstanding Educator of the Year.” Woodson has been employed as a teacher/band director with the Montgomery Public School System for 14 years. He provides opportunities for his students to perform through their participation in the band program. Annually, he tirelessly works to also offer a band trip to a well-known city. For some students, this is their first opportunity to travel out of Montgomery and/or to explore another environment with their peers. Students are encouraged to attend the Solo and Ensemble competition for Montgomery County students each spring. To encourage and develop leadership skills, Woodson supports a weekly meeting of his Band council members. For those students who might need additional instruction, Woodson offers his time before and after school hours. Woodson’s success as a middle school band director, which includes invitations to participate in the Alabama Music Educators National Conference and Alabama Bandmasters Association’s Music Performance and producing several all-county band members, demonstrates his mastery of his profession. Sabe Williams received the award for “Outstanding Support Staff of the Year.” He has spent eight years in the schools, with the last four as lead custodian at Floyd Middle Magnet. Williams often talks with the students about respect for teachers and obedience. He tells them, “the teacher is here for a reason and so are you…so you can’t learn if you are being disrespectful and disruptive in class.” Last summer FMMS had volunteers from Maxwell AFB and Huntingdon College help with school repairs, painting, and grounds clean-up. Williams not only knew exactly what needed to be done to get the school in top shape before the students returned, but he also worked side by side with the volunteers.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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FAMILY ACADEMICS EXCELLENCE CHAPEL ATHLETICS TECHNOLOGY

Macon East Academy is an independent, college preparatory school focused on excellence in academics, athletics, and achievement. Our accelerated curriculum is complemented by offerings in performing and visual arts, music, foreign language, and over 20 interscholastic sports, as well as a 1:1 Apple iPad program for students in grades 1 - 12. At Macon East, our students are held to high standards in all areas of student life, and Christian values are reinforced throughout all school programs. Small class sizes and a safe, nurturing environment give every student the opportunity to excel. Macon East is more than a school; we are a family. Schedule a campus tour today, and find out why Macon East is the right school for your student.

Macon East Academy

15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566

Located 7 miles east of Chantilly Parkway, just minutes from Montgomery 45

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I recently found myself thinking about how fast this year has gone by and about all the employees who are retiring. Then I started to reflect on the retirees’ many years of service and their huge impact on so many students’ lives. I wish each a happy, happy retirement! They have been giving of themselves for years now, and it is time for them to do what they want and enjoy! On May 13th we had the ACEA (Alabama Community Education Association) Retirement Tea. It was a wonderful occasion and well-attended. A special thanks goes out to Ms. Allison King, Ms. Lesley Rogers, and Ms. Angela Calhoun for coordinating this nice reception for our retirees. Autauga County has many areas of talent! I attended the Marbury High School band concert on May 9th, and I

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

had a blast. The music was outstanding. Mr. Simpson does a wonderful job, and I encourage him to keep up the great work! The Prattville Junior High School band performed their spring concert on April 17th. It was outstanding! Kenny Hall and Ashley Swenning do a great job preparing students to march in the Prattville High School marching band. Progress made by the students in the junior high program is truly amazing! Speaking of amazing, Prattville High School has a distinguished young artist! Tovah Hickman was recognized by the Alabama State Council on the Arts for her drawing that was the winning entry in the 2014 Visual Arts Achievement Statewide Exhibition. Tovah is in the 10th grade at Prattville High School and is in Ms. Jessica Rape’s art class. This is a great recognition for her and the Fine Arts Department at PHS. Congratulations, Tovah! Congratulations goes out to the Billingsley Bears softball team for their awesome season. They participated in the state tournament and played several

games before losing their third game to the number one ranked team in the state. I had the opportunity and privilege of being a guest speaker at the Boy Scouts Honor Court on May 12th. It was a fantastic evening and I really enjoyed myself. The parents and students were wonderful! The Honor Court was completely planned and executed by the students, which is amazing! It was great to see our future leaders organize and take charge of such a fine event. What an exciting time for our young people and their parents! High School graduation ceremonies were held on May 29th for Billingsley High School and Marbury High School. Autaugaville High School and Prattville High School held their ceremonies on May 30th. Congratulations to the graduating classes of 2014! Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an ator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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“YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A CITY SET ON A MOUNTAIN CANNOT BE HIDDEN.” MATTHEW 5:14 We congratulate the 139th graduating class of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. They’ve reached one pinnacle as they strive for another – to be salt and light to the world.

AUM, Boston University, Faulkner University, Huntingdon College, Martin Methodist College, University of Mobile, Montevallo, Notre Dame, Otis College of Art and Design, Parsons New School for Design, Point University, University of South Alabama, University of Southern Mississippi, Texas State University, Troy University, University of South Florida, and the University of West Florida.

Our graduates include a YMCA Youth Judicial Chief Justice, seven athletic scholarship recipients, an Eagle Scout, a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient and a State Record Holder in football for fumble return for a touchdown. The graduating class of 2014 received $4.1 million in scholarship offers from colleges and universities across the country, including the University of Alabama, Alabama A&M, ASU, Auburn University,

They’ve dedicated over 2,200 service hours to the community. These graduates have achieved so much in their time at Montgomery Catholic. Yet as proud as we are of what they’ve done, we’re prouder still of what they’ll do.

St. Bede Elementary Campus Holy Spirit Elementary Campus Middle School Campus High School Campus www.montgomerycatholic.org 47

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Autauga County Schools

Prattville Christian Wins Earth Day Competition

Prattville Christian Academy was recently recognized for collecting the most recyclable material of any school in the tri-county area during two weeks of competition through ADEM, Alabama Department of Environmental Management. More than 3,300 pounds of paper, plastic, aluminum and cardboard were collected at PCA, and the PCA Key Club spearheaded the effort in conjunction with the Food Service Director, Jo Tatum. “The Key Club really worked hard collecting and bagging the materials for the ADEM Earth Day recycling project,” said PCA teacher and Key Club sponsor Bobby Holt. “What a great way to increase recycling awareness, honor our earth, and raise money for PCA.” ADEM awarded PCA with a check for $524, which the school will use for future service projects. From left are Key Club members Katie Goggins, Hayley Jordin, Mary Catherine Berritt, Alison Fulfer, Nancy Patton, Kadi Newcomb, Joey Flemming, Josh Durbin, Roland VanDeventer, Heidi Keiffer, Austin McCawley, Anna Eaves, George Hunter and Wesley Thomas.

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East Memorial Presents ‘Father Knows Best’

East Memorial Christian Academy recently presented a very successful production of the comedy, Father Knows Best by Jim Sergel. It is based on the well-known television series by the same name. The play was based on the lives of Jim Anderson, his wife Margaret, and their children, Betty, Bud and Kathy. Shown are Tyler Burns, standing, and from left, Tori Arnold, Emma Walrath and Anna O’Neal. The production was directed by EMCA speech teacher Angie Mitchell.

EMCA Elects New SGA Officers

From left are the newly elected East Memorial Christian Academy SGA Officers for 20142015: Patrick Easley, parliamentarian; Holly Tobias, secretary; Maddie Treherne, vice president; Ashley Paggeott, president; Alli Drummonds, treasurer; and Jacob Boatner, chaplain. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

PHS Students Awarded MAX4Kids Scholarships

From left, Prattville High School students William Mitchell, Kasey Hedgecock and John Mitchell were among the ten students selected to receive MAX4Kids scholarships. Each student was awarded a $2,500 scholarship on May 6. Requirements are recipients must be members of MAX Credit Union and have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Students are selected by area educators based on scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, quality of character and leadership as well as an essay response. Max4Kids Scholarships are given at the completion of the student’s first quarter or semester of college. Hedgecock is a member of Beta Club, French Club, Diamond Dolls and is on the yearbook staff. She is a volunteer at the Humane Shelter and Habitat for Humanity as well as a YMCA camp counselor. She will attend the University of Alabama to obtain a degree in Early Childhood Education. John Mitchell received National Merit Commendation, is an AP Scholar, an Eagle Scout, Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow, is involved in Prattville Theater, National Honor Society, Beta Club and the International Thespian Society. He is attending Georgia Tech to obtain a degree in bio-chemistry and plans to become a pediatrician. William Mitchell received National Merit Commendation, is an AP Scholar, an Eagle Scout, Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow where he was also Section Vice Chief and Lodge Chief, and played JV and varsity soccer. William is also attending Georgia Tech with plans to obtain a degree in computer science. 48

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EMCA Student Wins Service Scholarship

Katelyn Simpkins, SGA president from East Memorial Christian Academy, has won the State SGA Community Service Scholarship. She was chosen for her many service projects in the tri-county area.

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PCA Presents Marilyn Greer Award

Prattville Christian Academy has named senior Wesley Thomas as the 2014 recipient of the Marilyn Greer award. The Marilyn Greer Christian Leadership award was started by the PCA Board of Directors in 2004 in conjunction with the first graduating class. Greer was the founding director of PCA when it started in 1997 and served as director until 2004 when Ron Mitchell took over leadership of the school as president. She is currently the Elementary School Spiritual Director and was instrumental in completing the PCA certified outdoor classroom. Since 2004, PCA administrators have awarded this to a member of the senior class that best exhibits Christian leadership and qualities such as integrity and servitude at PCA. Thomas is shown with Marilyn Greer. 49

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The closing of the school year meant the opening of a new chapter entitled “Retirement” for many of our district employees. When I look over the list of this year’s retirees, I am so proud of their many years of service and the immeasurable impact they have had on the lives of their students and

co-workers: Smith Abrams, custodian, Wetumpka Middle; Rick Ashcraft, band director, Stanhope Elmore High; Amelia Barton, teacher, Elmore County High; Melanie Bass, bus driver; Linda Blakey, Title I teacher, Holtville Elementary; Beverly Butler, CNP staff, Elmore County High; Glenn Campbell, physical education, Airport Road Intermediate; Ferdinanda Coleman, teacher, Millbrook Middle; Janet Dubose, counselor, Wetumpka Elementary; Angie Duncan, counselor, Coosada Elementary; Debra Forbus, bus driver; Brenda French, bus aide; Mary Gibbs, teacher, Millbrook Middle; Richard Grey, utility worker, Transportation

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Department; Patti Guthrie, secretary, Wetumpka Elementary; Mary Kate Harper, bookkeeper, Wetumpka Elementary; Jacqueline Hartwell, office aide, Millbrook Middle; Dane Hawk, principal, Eclectic Middle; Debbie Haynie, teacher, Airport Road Intermediate; Nancy Herring, teacher, Eclectic Elementary; Annette Hunt, CNP Manager, Stanhope Elmore High; Marty Hunt, maintenance worker; Marilyn Kimberl, teacher, Millbrook Middle; Dorothy Lacey, teacher, Wetumpka Elementary; Charlotte London, teacher, Holtville High; Kitty McKee, teacher, Eclectic Elementary; Mary Moore, counselor, Wetumpka Elementary; Debbie Peavy, teacher, Coosada Elementary; Jennifer Powers, teacher, Holtville Middle; Jamie Robinson, bus driver ; Miriam Rolen, Language Arts Teacher, Elmore County Alternative Program; Linda Scott, teacher, Holtville Elementary; Martha Shehane, teacher, Wetumpka High; Peggy Strength, bookkeeper, Elmore County Technical Center; Wilbur Terrell, teacher, Elmore County High; Carl Thomas, Director, Elmore County Technical Center; Anita Thompson, library aide, Wetumpka Elementary; Teri Thompson, teacher, Wetumpka High; Gloria Williams, teacher, Stanhope Elmore High; Irene Wong, counselor, Airport Road Intermediate; Mary Wood; Student Services Specialist, Central Office; and Rebecca Wood, teacher, Elmore County High.

On behalf of our entire school system, I want to say a big “THANK YOU” to each of these employees who have labored for countless years on behalf of our children and communities. Here’s to you as you embark on your retirement adventures! I am also proud of the scholarship recipients among our graduates this year. At Elmore County High and Holtville High, our graduates collected approximately $1.1 million in scholarship awards at each of the schools. At Wetumpka High, students benefitted from $1.97 million in scholarship offerings, while at Stanhope Elmore High, the scholarship number topped $2 million. Graduates—we are proud of you!!!! Here in the district, we are especially proud of Assistant Technology Coordinator Nathan White who recently earned the Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL) designation by passing a rigorous certification exam given in Washington D.C. White becomes one of only 104 Educational Technology Leaders nationwide and is the 5th in the state of Alabama to attain this designation. Congratulations, Nathan! Jeff Langham is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. Now in his eighth year as the system’s leader, he has a total of 27 years of experience in the field of education. Langham is an active member at Landmark Church in Montgomery. He and his wife, Ginny, a nurse educator, have one daughter, Weldon.

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Elmore County Schools

WMS Tomahawk Team Helps Humane Shelter

The Wetumpka Middle School Tomahawk New Team, along with the Beta Club, worked to raise money and supplies to donate to the Elmore County Humane Shelter. Supplies such as kitty litter, dog food, towels, and cleaning supplies were some of the items donated. In addition, these students raised $500 through the “Save Our Pets” fundraiser. The money was used to save a pet’s life and to repair the shelter’s vehicle, which is used to transport animals. The Elmore County Humane Shelter was very appreciative of the school’s efforts to support the community’s shelter.

Redland Fourth-Grader Surpasses 1,000 AR Points

Emerald Mountain Holds Commencement

Redland fourth-grader Katie Payne has surpassed 1,000 Accelerated Reader points for the second year in a row. Payne’s cumulative number of books read was 98, with a total of 1,005 points and a quiz average of 96%. On Honors Day, Payne was presented with two trophies. One was from the school and one from her teacher. She is shown with her fourth-grade teacher, Holly O’Dell.

Emerald Mountain Christian School held its commencement ceremony May 22, 2014. Dr. Richard Hobson, administrative director of Alabama’s Court System, was the keynote speaker. Collin Page O’Connor was named the valedictorian of Emerald Mountain, where he was a student since the second grade. O’Connor plans to attend Auburn University in the fall. He was awarded the Auburn University Board of Trustees Scholarship, Auburn University Achievement Award, and the Raymond & Eleanor Loyd Scholarship. He plans to major in computer software engineering and pursue a career in computer software programming.

Nathan White Earns Certified Designation

WES Presents Green Ideas

Wetumpka Elementary School presented ideas from the Go Green Professional learning community at a recent Elmore County Board Meeting. The three goals of “Go Green” are: 1. Recycle, reduce and reuse; 2. Health and wellness; and 3. Environmental Education. From left are Jina Sanders, Katie Cole, Barbara Porter, Bonnie Sullivan and Daniel Taylor. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Elmore County Schools Assistant Technology Coordinator Nathan White, shown, recently earned the Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL) designation by passing a rigorous certification exam given in Washington, D.C. White becomes one of only 104 Educational Technology Leaders nationwide and is the fifth in the state of Alabama to attain this designation. “On behalf of our entire school district, I offer our heartiest congratulations to Nathan for this remarkable accomplishment,” says Dr. Jeff Langham, Elmore County Schools superintendent. “Nathan is an exceptional leader who daily enriches and elevates our technological pursuits throughout our school system. We are so proud of Nathan!” Awarded by the Consortium for School Networking (CoSN), the CETL certification signifies that White has mastered the knowledge and skills needed to bring 21st century technology to K-12 school systems. To become certified, a candidate must demonstrate experience in the education technology field and pass a comprehensive two-part examination based on the 10 skill areas in CoSN’s Framework of Essential Skills of the K-12 CTO. Once the CETL certification is earned, the ed tech professional must complete 60 hours of professional development activities every three years to maintain the designation. 52

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Victory Softball Team Comes in Second

Coach Steve Sanders led the Lady Eagles of Victory Baptist School to a second-place win at the ACEA State Softball Championship recently in Tuscaloosa. The double elimination tournament began Friday at 9 a.m. and lasted until Saturday at 1 p.m. The final four teams consisted of the Tuscaloosa Warriors, New Life Eagles, Victory Eagles out of Columbus, Miss., and the Lady Eagles of Victory Baptist School. Morgan Barnes, Rebekah Gillum and Gabby White were selected to the ACEA All-Tournament Team.

Eclectic Visits with Book Author

Eclectic Elementary School enjoyed a visit from author Michael Finklea on April 23. He spoke to grades K-4 about writing and how exciting it can be. He discussed using your imagination and writing about what you know. The students were motivated by him to write; he made sure they knew they could be authors at any age. Some students even shared books they had written.

Friends of Redland Thank Golf Tournament Sponsors

The Friends of Redland Elementary (F.O.R.E.) thank all of the sponsors, listed below, of the 2014 Eagles Open Golf Tournament which took place April 25 at the Emerald Mountain Golf Club. The group cleared $12,000, which will go directly to Redland Elementary for additional library books and technology equipment. GOLD sponsors ($1,000) include: Central Alabama Metal & Roofing, Lifetouch National School Portraits, and Performance Sealants and Waterproofing, LLC. SILVER sponsors ($500) include: Alabama Senator Dick Brewbaker, Community Hospital, Emerald Mountain Toll Bridge, Inline Electric Supply Company and Redland Community Association. TEAM sponsors ($300) include: Alabama AG Credit, Gulf States Distributors, Willie Barrow, Richard Kennamer, Steve Burger, LLC, Regions Bank and Probate Judge John Enslen. TEE sponsors ($100) include: Alabama Peace Officers’ Assoc., Oakview Farms, Alabama State Employees’ Credit Union, Dan and Tawanna Aude, Alabama Representative Greg Wren, Willie and Brenda Barrow (2 tees), Camo Country, LLC, Gulf States Distributors, Central Alabama Electric Coop, Westbrook Wonders, First South Farm Credit, O’Dell Equipment Rental, H & H Carpets, Prime South Bank, J. Wright’s Automotive Service, Mulder Memorial UMC (2 tees), Janey’s Academy of Dance, Redland Baptist (2 tees), Jenilyns Creations, River Bank & Trust, Jackson Thornton & Co, P.C. (2 tees), Al & Melita Watson (2 tees), Larry Ray Insurance Agency, Romeos (3 tees), Lee’s Auto Repair, and Ron and Jennifer Creel. PRIZE, SNACKS AND DRINKS sponsors include: Blue Ridge Mountain Water, Pepperidge Farms, Casa Napoli, Riverside Chevrolet, Fresh Market, Texas Roadhouse, Coca Cola, Alabama AG Credit, Kellogg’s, Coosa River Adventures, Frankie’s Sweet Shoppe, Camo Country and Emerald Mountain Golf Course. We also had 76 child sponsors at $25 each. Our winning teams were: 1st Place: Gulf State Distributors—Charlie Dees, Conrad Naftel, Brandon Godwin, Daniel Vere; 2nd Place: John Ross, Donald Barron, Robby Spaeth, Ty Coleman; and 3rd Place: Fred Conway, Ken Longcrier and Charles Ingram. 53

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Victory Baptist Visits Auburn Explore Expo

Mrs. William’s seventh-grade class from Victory Baptist School had a chance to visit Auburn University Explore hosted by the Auburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics. Students got a chance to browse dozens of interactive displays and live animal displays in the Science EXPO. The students also attended two science fun shops with hands-on interaction discovering how math and science work together. The students ended the day at a Pyro Show where they learned and experienced the chemistry of explosives.

Got news? Send us your school bits by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

WMS Recognizes Support Staff for Daily Help

The administrators at Wetumpka Middle School recognized both of the school secretaries, Gigi Mathis and Samantha Curvin, and the school bookkeeper, Sandi White, on Administrative Professionals Day. The school principals held the office down while the trio were able to enjoy a tasty lunch at Frankie’s. All three are vital at Wetumpka Middle School. They keep the office going on a day-to-day basis by handling tasks that often go unrecognized such as filing, organizing, scheduling, planning and so much more.

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Join us for a celebration of God’s goodness through praise and worship, followed by a life-applicable Bible-

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based teaching by senior pastor John Schmidt via video. Come casual and enjoy our service that starts at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday at the Jim Wilson YMCA at New Park. Nursery and children’s program provided.

For more information contact our office at (334) 356-3076 or visit our website at centeringlives.com

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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Redland Elementary Art Show Fundraiser

Artwork from Misty Trussellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-graders is shown in the hallway outside her class. The art was displayed as part of a spring fundraiser for the school.

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Wetumpka Holds Rodeo Party!

Wetumpka Elementary held a positive behavior rodeo party on a pretty spring day.

RES Class Performs End of Year Play

Misty Trussellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-grade class performed an end of the year play with Superintendent Dr. Jeff Langham as master of ceremonies. The students actually held three productions for parents and other classes.

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It Takes Two to Play

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Making playtime twice as much fun is as easy as adding games and gear that invite kids to pair up and play hard. Two-player toys encourage a natural ebb and flow between kids that strengthens their sense of sportsmanship, teamwork and fair play. Games and gear designed for two players are also ideal encouragement for children to find playmates, make friends and connect with peers. It’s time to double the good times with the following recommended toys and games that take two!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Everywhere Table Tennis Set

Spiro Hop Bouncer (TP Activity)

(EastPoint)

Table tennis is an addictive sport. With broad paddles, light-as-air balls and a small net, it’s one of the easiest sports to just walk up and play. And while you may have to look harder for a regulation-size ping-pong table to play on, you can now bust out a recreational set that turns any smooth table into a table tennis arena! The EastPoint Everywhere Table Tennis Set includes net anchors that simply unspool the retractable net according to a table width, and clamp into place onto the sides of the table top. Two paddles and three balls come with the set, so you can get your game on in minutes. Lightweight, compact and portable, this table tennis set is perfect for family reunions, playdates, church outings, or any event with tables that can quickly be transformed for a ping-pong-pair showdown.

Perfect for pairs, the Spiro Hop Bouncer is a sturdy improvement over traditional teeter-totters. On a stable tripod base, the Spiro adds bouncing and spinning to the normal see-saw ups and downs. With inflatable balls absorbing the impact under the seat, there are no more tongue-biting, hard landings when the seats hit the ground. While unevenly weighted kids on a traditional see-saw could keep one child ground-bound and the other stuck aloft, the Spiro assembly includes an adjustable bar to account for weight differences. Additionally, the counterbalance action of the ball seat adds lift on the rebound to keep the up and down going strong. Complete with stakes to anchor the set for outdoors and padded floor protectors for indoor use, the Spiro Hop Bouncer definitely levels-up over old-school see-saws with its flexibility to accommodate diversity between two riders.

OgoSport Disc Set

Ultra Range Walkie Talkie

Featuring elements from several sports, the OgoSport Disc Set has ‘catch-and-throw’ at its heart, but it’s range of activities expands far beyond. The round disc frames a trampolinelike surface that catches the ball and then adds extra spring as a player launches the ball back. Additionally, with its large surface area, smaller hands can have a better chance at snagging the ball with the disc. The disc floats in water and is great for lofting water balloons as well. It’s also easy to create OgoSport Disc gameplay based on other sports baseball, soccer and more! Like an over-sized FrisbeeTM that also throws, catches and bounces balls, the OgoSport Disc set is a versatile and actionpacked combination of two-person action!

Whether your kids are in pretend-play mode as secret agents or on the move as bona-fide explorers, giving them the means to communicate at a distance will amplify the whole experience! The Ultra Range Walkie Talkie set features a simple click-and-hold button to talk – with a volume control for those sensitive missions that require a “sneak” factor. The walkie talkies’ sturdy construction is a plus, but it’s the extended talking range of this set (up to two miles!) that makes it a real winner. Ideal for hiking, outdoor festivals, and neighborhood expeditions, best buddies will love having their own channel to communicate as they explore their bigger world. Paired with a sense of adventure, the Ultra Range Walkie Talkies take the conversation to the extreme!

(OgoSport)

(Spy Gear)

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

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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The moment your child utters her first word, you’ll probably want to announce it to the world, while quickly marking the occasion in her baby book. You probably won’t be so thrilled, however, when her word of choice evolves into the very opinionated word “no.” Although this is a frustrating and challenging stage of development, it is completely normal. Jen Mann-Li, a mother of two, describes her daughter Sadie, 3, as a “pro” at using the word no. “She was a late talker, didn’t really talk until she was almost 2-years-old, and no was a favorite right away,” Mann-Li says. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Mann-Li says that Sadie refuses to be distracted from what she wants. “She’s very stubborn and will not budge (sometimes literally),” she says. “We have a saying that Sadie will ‘die on that hill’ and she does daily over these ‘silly’ things.”

Why they say it. Laura Murphy is a

certified parent coach and president of Real Families, Inc., which helps families work through parenting, marriage and financial issues. She says that the chief child-rearing complaint she hears from parents concerns children refusing to do what the parents want them to do. Not only is the word “no” an easy word for toddlers to say, but Murphy believes, “The biggest reason they say it so much is because they hear it so much from everyone else.” The good news is this phase is completely normal and healthy. “The number one job of a 2-year-old is to test every physical limit. Pushing physical limits to find out what the adults will do is a natural approach 58

for a toddler. They need to learn those limits,” Murphy says. Need a few proactive strategies to reduce the use of the word in your home and forge a path of less resistance?

Change your approach. Challenge yourself to see if you can say no without really saying the word no. For example, if your child asks for a cookie, instead of saying “no, not before dinner” say “sure, after dinner.” This exercise will also make you more aware of just how often you say no. “Once we change our approach, we usually notice a change in our children,” Murphy says. Also, talk to your spouse and childcare providers about using other words besides no all the time. But that doesn’t mean you should ban the word entirely. “Say yes as often as possible, and when you say no, mean it,” Murphy advises. Having a sense of humor doesn’t hurt either. Ingrid Brown has www.montgomeryparents.com

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two daughters, 4 and 2, who both went through the “no” phase at around 20 months. “I tried to make a game out of it,” Brown says. “If they said no to everything, I would counter back in a funny voice repeating ‘nooooOOOooo’ right back at them and give them a little tickle.”

Offer two choices. Resistance often begins long before a child utters his first word. “When they’re old enough to start flinging food at you from their high chair, they’re old enough to start choices,” Murphy says. Barring a dangerous situation like your child refusing to move in a busy street, provide your child with two choices that you like and can live with. “Small choices for the kids, but the adults make the big decisions,” Murphy says. For example, a parent decides on bedtime, but a child chooses between the blue pajamas or red pajamas. By giving away small decisions to your toddler, she will have a sense of control over her life which will likely reduce negative behaviors such as not listening, running away, resistance, and temper tantrums. If a child refuses to make a decision in 10 seconds, the parent should make it for her, following up with empathy. Show empathy not anger. Murphy stresses that empathy is an important component of providing choices to your child. When you replace anger with empathy, she says, you’ll notice a huge shift. For example, when your child doesn’t get something that she wants, say something along the lines of: “I know. It’s a bummer.” Avoid “parenting on the fly.”

Stay calm in the heat of the moment and decide ahead of time on what things to definitely say no to and what you can say yes to. Also, try making a list of the small choices you can offer your child during those more troublesome times of the day. Need help? For more parenting tips and resources, check out Murphy’s website Real-families.com, Loveandlogic.com, Kidsareworthit.com and the book Making Children Mind Without Losing Yours by Kevin Leman. If your tactics don’t seem effective, seek out an expert like a family counselor to assess the situation. Although a tweak in parenting skills may be all that is needed, an expert can help determine if something more serious is going on with your child. mp Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Gude to a Satisfying Social Life and the mom of two boys.

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Making Your Conservative Style More Trendy

Put a pink shell under you taupe jacket instead of the go-to off-white shell. This will give you the appearance of having a new look, when in fact it is just a new way of wearing something old.

3-Mix prints. One fashion question many of us ladies have is how or what we can do to take our style from a conservative look to slightly more trendy, without overdoing the trend. The good news is that you can change your look by using items you have hanging in your closet. It’s as simple as that.

1-Dress appropriately. When

Prints are like a fun color, but with a bit more style. Keep your prints simple and subtle. An example would be wearing a leopard heel with a red suit or pairing your hounds tooth jacket with a royal blue skirt.

starting the search for the perfect stylish outfit, think about the type of event where it will be worn. If it is for an interview or a meeting, a more conservative look would be best. You can follow trends by adding a small pop of ontrend color to your suit. This could be in a scarf around the neck, shell under the suit jacket or statement necklace. Just don’t overdo it; one item is usually best, and you can save the bolder styles for when you are hired. For a date, small gathering or day of shopping your look should be less conservative and reflect your personality. The main rule of thumb here is to not wear your clothes too tight or too low. You want your clothes to fit, but you don’t need to reveal too much.

5-Black. We all tend to gravitate towards black and there is nothing wrong with that at all. When you wear black try to brighten up the style a bit instead of wearing a solid canvas of black. This can be accomplished with a colorful shoe, purse or jewelry. Black can be chic and stylish all in one.

2-Incorporate colors. Try mix-

6-Attitude is everything. When

ing your colors or adding color to your tone-on-tone suits. For example, pair your red jacket with your black skirt instead of the usual matching red skirt.

it comes to pulling off a trendy look, always be confident and comfortable with yourself and your style. You can have the most stylish outfit and not pull

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

4-Find fun accessories. This tip is as simple as it gets. Find the perfect accessories to break up any outfit. This can take that simple suit from bland to glam in no time.

it off if you appear to be uncomfortable. It can look as bad as wearing ill fitted clothing.

7-Find favorite trends. Incorporate trends with your style by searching the latest fashion blogs or magazines. This is a great guide for you without being overwhelming. Work on developing your signature style as it helps you separate yourself from the bunch. Figure out what you love wearing all the time or what type of clothing or accessory dominates your closet and use it as your ‘calling card’. Don’t think you can’t enjoy trends just because you have simple items hanging in your wardrobe. Be creative! This can save you time and money when it comes to figuring out how to work your way into the world of fashion without overdoing it. Baby steps are the key and what better way than starting straight from your closet and with your own personal style.

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

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“Wow, I could never do that,” say most people when I tell them that I homeschool my children. Questioning them generally reveals that a lot of parents feel inadequate to home educate. They think that if they don’t have a college degree, or if they never took algebra, or if they cannot speak a foreign language, then they are ill-equipped to teach these things to their kids. But homeschooling doesn’t require that you actually teach your children everything—as long as you provide the means by which the child learns. As homeschooling mom of six Lori Murafka-Orme puts it, “I will admit I’m not able to teach everything…that’s OK. It’s important to recognize your weaknesses and figure out ways around them.” Montgomery Parents I June 2014

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Perhaps you’ve gotten up the courage to take the plunge, remove your children from a conventional school setting, and homeschool them; but you have no clue where to begin. Following are a few ideas to get you going.

Networking New homeschoolers must network. Visit a support group. To find one, see the Homeschool Resource Guide following this article. Join one that fits the needs and personalities of your family. Make friends for yourself and your children. Homeschooling mom Christie Clark feels that, especially for the first 5 years, a support group is a necessity. “The amount of support and encouragement,” she said, “is imperative.” In addition to the support group there are several ways for you to find educational opportunities for your children.

Co-ops For several years my family hosted a small co-op in our home. Two other families joined us every Friday to study language, science, state history and nutrition. All our children were close in age, making the lessons easier to prepare. Each mom taught either what she felt comfortable with or had certain qualifications to teach. We changed classes with each semester. If you cannot find an established co-op, and would like to start your own, I recommend the booklet The Only Homeschool Co-op Booklet You Need to Start Your Very Own Best Co-op Ever! by homeschooling parent Karen Lange.

Bartering Lorene left an engineering career when she had her first child. She teaches algebra for moms that feel unqualified to do so in exchange for other services. Holly, an accomplished artist, teaches art to homeschoolers. Mike hosts a chess club in his home. How do you find these parents willing to share their knowledge with more than their own children? Network—meet people and make your needs (and strengths) known.

Community Service My daughter wanted to learn cake decorating. We found a class at a craft store in a nearby city. She took several classes there and excelled in each one. My son wants to learn photography. Our county Parks and Recreation Department offers just the course. We struggled to learn Spanish together as a family. We were unsure of ourselves and inconsistent. Then we saw an ad in the paper for free Spanish classes offered at a local church. The instructor? A retired college Spanish professor wanting to make a difference. We are now well on our way to understanding our Hispanic neighbors.

Private Tutors Some families hire private tutors for the subjects with which they feel uncomfortable. Murafka-Orme feels that what works best for her family is to pay for services or to participate in co-ops that charge a fee. “This way everyone is on the same page and knows the expectations being set,” she said. To find tutors, ask older homeschooling moms in your support group or call the local schools. Many teachers moonlight tutoring

and some may recommend their brightest students for the job.

Dual Enrollment For high school juniors and seniors, dual enrollment at a local community college is an option. The child gets both high school and college credit for the courses taken. Clark, who has homeschooled her four children for 11 years, says that “this is a great area to home educate, as the community colleges are accepting of homeschoolers and this is an excellent avenue for the higher math, science, and foreign languages courses.”

Internet/Computer/ Correspondence courses A myriad of educational opportunities exist online. Several math and science curricula now offer companion DVD’s that tutor the student. Bob Jones University offers a satellite school. Pam Bishop uses a Catholic correspondence program called Mother of Divine Grace School. “They offer day-byday curriculum as well as call-in classes,” Bishop said. “A student can also send in their papers for grading and receive feedback from teachers.” Finally, remember the local library. Library personnel generally keep abreast of community affairs and are always willing to help. When we moved from one state to another, I first asked at the library. The woman at the desk gave me the phone number of the leader for a local support group. The rest is history. mp Freelance writer and homeschooling mother Carol J. Alexander has been teaching her children at home for 18 years. Her blog www.EverythingHomeWithCarol.com offers encouragement for those that are new to homeschooling or have been at it for a while.

A VISIT FROM A THERAPY DOG Does your scout troup, camp, library corner or summer school want to learn about Pet Safety and Responsible Pet care?

If so call the

Montgomery Humane Society at 334-409-0622 ext. 204 to schedule a visit from Mary Hughes and Harvey or email maryhughes@montgomeryhumane.com for more details.

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classes for ages 13 and up, field trips, clubs, sports (ages 12 and up), standardized testing as requested and graduation with diploma. Please visit our website at www.Ezekielacademy.org

Getting Started & State Laws • www.leapingfromthebox.com – Informative website that answers common questions about home schooling in Alabama. Includes support groups, cover schools, etc… • www.homeschool.com – Wonderful website to visit if you are thinking of homeschooling. Great information on different approaches to homeschooling, such as: classical , unschooling, Charlotte Mason, school in a box, etc… • www.hslda.org - HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association) gives families the freedom to homeschool without having to face legal threats alone. • www.homeschoolcentral.com- Resourceful website for new or veteran homeschoolers. Includes state laws, curriculums, un-schooling and much more.

Cover Schools • Cornerstone Family Church School 341 North Madison Terrace Montgomery, Alabama 36117 Phone:(334) 361.1227 or 263.3706 Website: www.cornerstone-biblechurch.org Contact: Mike and Anna Mae Jones – Prattville, (334) 361.1227 Requirements: Interview, agreement with doctrinal statement, quarterly evaluations (record of attendance, curriculum using, activities, etc.), optional online record keeping. Tuition Fee: $25 per year per family, HSLDA membership Enrollment Deadline: No deadline • Dayspring Academy/High School Decatur, AL 35603 Phone: (334) 518.9181 or (334) 635.0661 Contact: Jazmin Price or Delaina Smitherma Website: http://www.dsacademy.org Requirements: A church enrollment form to local Board of Education Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Enrollment Fee: $95 first time enrollment fee Re-enrollment for members is pro-rated per family. Enrollment Deadline: Accept new enrollments year-round Other: Phone/in person curriculum help, message board (covers all of Alabama), transcripts for each child, online support, area coordinators available to plan local activities. All books, report cards, graduation ceremony and awards or diplomas will be extra. • Evangel Family Christian Academy Attn: Homeschool Office 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Phone: (334) 272.3215 Contact: Denise Matthes, Administrator Requirements: Membership in Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA); letter from your pastor stating that your family is a member in good standing in a Bible-believing church; course of study for each school-age child; 170 schooling days; orientation meeting at beginning of school year. Tuition: $100 per year per family Enrollment Deadline: August 2nd Other: Quarterly student evaluations; Supplemental classes available through Gateway Academy for ages 13 and up, monthly newsletter, field trips, clubs, sports (ages 12 and up), standardized testing as requested and graduation with diploma. www.evangelfamily.net • Ezekiel Academy 8191 Seaton Place Montgomery, AL 36116 Phone: (334) 315.0010 Contact: Maretta Oswald, Administrator; Debra Monplaisir, Assistant Administrator Requirements: Letter from your pastor stating that your family is a member in good standing in a Bible-believing church; course of study for each school-age child; 170 schooling days; orientation meeting at beginning of school year. Tuition: $200 per year per family, which includes legal services provided by local law firm Enrollment Deadline: August 2nd Other: Quarterly student evaluations; LIFT 64

• Everest Academy 1035 Jenkins Rd., Hayden, AL 35079 Phone: (205) 433.9828 Administrator: Deb Spradlin Email: everstacademy1@gmail.com Website: www.alabamahomeschooling.com Mission: Everest Academy believes that the parent has the best interests of their children at heart. We believe that the parent is the first and only teacher that a child needs. In keeping with this philosophy, we wish to be a very hands-off cover school and allow the parent to lead and guide their children in the direction and at the pace they feel is best suited to their children. We ask only for what the law requires while offering support along with quality resources to aid families in their efforts. Other: We serve all of Alabama, Statewide coverage. Newsletter sent weekly by email. We offer a wider range of field trips and activities. Requirements: Application for enrollment and grades and attendance records due at time of graduation or transference. Tuition: $200 new enrollees / $100 re enrollment per family per year • Holy Spirit Academy Telephone: (334) 294.7305 E-mail: Happygirl.beach@gmail.com Administrator’s Name: Monica Burke Location (mailing address): 8570 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36117 Office hours (for phone contact): 9 am-4 pm Sponsoring church: Holy Spirit Catholic Church Enrollment area: Local to Central Alabama Statement of Faith: not required. HSLDA: required General description (or Mission Statement): The mission of Holy Spirit Academy is to serve families choosing to educate their school age children at home in compliance with Alabama law. HSA provides home schooling families with a structure of support and services for academic excellence and for living the Catholic faith in the home and society. Requirements: HSLDA membership, Church School enrollment form filed yearly, curriculum list, semester progress report, semester attendance report, and September required meeting of primary teachers. We do accept families of other religions with a pastor’s letter stating they are registered members of their church. Tuition: $35 yearly fee. • Little Flock Ministries P.O. Box 250504, Montgomery, AL 36125 (334) 288.7475; (Montgomery) Hours: 7 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Administrators: Tracy Glover Email: glovereleven@bellsouth.net Mission Statement: Interdenominational church school. Our goal is to serve homeschooling families regardless of church and/or religious affiliations. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Requirements: We do require that the four basic subjects be taught, one attendance report per month, two progress reports per year. You must maintain daily record of attendance, grade book, lesson plans and a work portfolio with samples of past work at home. You must fill out application package. Tuition: $25 per year per family Enrollment Deadline: open year round • Outlook Academy P.O. Box 1027 Millbrook, AL 36054 Phone: (334) 290.0919 Directors: Carren and Daniel Joye Email: info@outlookacademy.com Web site: www.outlookacademy.org Outlook Academy is a hands-off church school. Because we believe that parents are best suited to direct the education of their children, Outlook Academy asks only for what the law requires while also offering support for your personal choices. We accept students from all over the state. Because we wish to use today’s available technology to make the homeschooling process as easy, efficient and convenient as possible, many of our services have Internet options, such as attendance reports via email. Requirements: Attendance reports at the end of the mid-July. Not required: membership in HSLDA but encouraged, meetings, minimum days of attendance, testing, curriculum review, or statement of faith. Enrollment Fee: $125 for family for new enrollment if done during open enrollment period, $175 if done after open enrollment Enrollment Deadline: August 1, with mid-year

enrollments for an additional fee Other: Weekly Co-op, convenient attendance reporting via email, monthly newsletter, online support, contact information for local homeschool support groups, web site featuring curriculum information and news of home schooling interests. • New Hope Academy c/o The Learning Place 698 Silver Hills Drive, Prattville (334) 361.9505 Hours: 8 a.m until 6 p.m. Administrators: Tina Halbert Email: thelearningplace@att.net Website: http://www.thelearningplacealabama.com Mission Statement: The Learning Place provides a legal homeschool covering for those parents choosing to homeschool their children. We are a “hands-off” cover school, requiring only the basic enrollment procedures and attendance policies. Please read our forms for more information. Feel free to contact us with any questions. Enrollment: Accepting applications year round. Tuition: $20 per child with an $80 cap. Please visit www.leapingfromthebox.com for statewide cover schools. Also, check with your local church to see if it might be a cover school for its members.

Curriculum • ABEKA Curriculum: Abeka Curriculum has a Christian and traditional approach to education. They offer three options to teaching. The DVD

option is a fully accredited college preparatory program with ABEKA Academy. The second option is the traditional parent – directed option with ABEKA Academy. The third option is textbooks / materials for home schooling that you pick and choose from. ABEKA offers home school material displays several times a year in Montgomery and surrounding areas. Please visit www.abeka.com for more information or for a free catalog. • Alpha Omega Publications: Alpha Omega offers a wide variety of Christian curricula for varying learning styles. Please visit www.aop. com for more information or a free catalog. • Apologia - Along with our award-winning creation-based science courses, Apologia Educational Ministries offers biblical worldview and apologetic titles, online classes, inspirational books, homeschooling tools (such as planners), the Real Refreshment Retreats for homeschooling moms, and mission opportunities. All of our products and services have been created to help homeschooling families learn, live, and defend the Christian faith. For more information visit www.apologia.com. • Bob Jones Curriculum: BJU offers quality textbooks, homeschool consultants, student focused distance learning classes, and a wide range of other products and services to meet your educational needs. BJU Press offers home school material displays in Montgomery and surrounding areas during the year. Please visit

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the whole world as its curriculum. www.konos.com • My Father’s World – Raising up generations of families who see the world through God’s eyes and live according to that knowledge. www.mfwbooks.com • Oak Meadow – Oak Meadow offers many different options to meet individual family needs for education. They offer complete curriculum for at home use or you can enroll online to receive academic credit. Their curricula gives students freedom to learn with flexibility and recognition of learning styles. Please visit www. oakmeadow.com for more information or a free catalog.

www.bjupress.com or call 1(800) 845.5731 for more information or a free catalog. • Calvert School – “When enrolled in Calvert school, you have a partner in education.” They provide you with all of the textbooks, tools and support you need. Calvert is a classical Christian Private School. The teachers provide the lessons plans and everything is provided to you. They offer support with placement testing, education counselors, and advisory teaching services. Please visit www.calvertschool.org/ home-school/ or call 1(888) 487.4652 for more information or a free catalog.

• Heart of Dakota - Christ centered homeschool curricula that is flexible, easy to use, and educational. This curricula can be used with multiple ages at the same time. Please visit www.heartofdakota.com for more information or for a free catalog. • Keystone National High School - Online Accredited High School and Middle School where you can earn your diploma online. Visit www. keystonehighschool.com. • KONOS – KONOS is distinct from other curricula. It uses the entire library as a textbook and

• Rod & Staff Curricula – Rod and Staff offer Bible based textbooks that are designed to make the child God conscious. Please visit www.rodandandstaffbooks. com and click on the homeschool link. • Saxon Curriculum – Saxon teaches the foundational skills of math and reading. Please visit www.saxonpublishers.com for more information. • Sonlight Curriculum - Sonlight uses a classical Christian approach to education. It is literature rich and focuses on teaching children to seek God’s kingdom and to create a learner’s heart, enthusiasm and excitement for learning. Please visit www.sonlight.com for more information, a free catalog or to visit the forums.

AUTISM

DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC • Autism Spectrum Disorders Diagnostic Clinic • Team approach using certified Psychologist, Occupational Therapist, and Speech Therapist • No Waiting List • Timely diagnostic feedbacks • Most insurances accepted including Medicaid

Call us at 334-387-3281

www.eastersealsca.org Montgomery Parents I June 2014

www.montgomeryparents.com

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• Tapestry of Grace – Tapestry of Grace uses a Classical / Redesigned approach to education through a plan of study that helps parents provide a Christian, classical education using a guided unit study approach. Students cycle through world history every four years, with all ages studying the same slice of history each week, each at their own learning level. This curricula does not include does not include a phonics program, science, math, grammar, spelling, or foreign language. Please visit www.tapestryofgrace. com for more information. • Timberdoodle Co. – Offers a wonderful selection of books and Core Curriculums. Our selection is based on over twenty-five years of homeschooling and 24 years of selling homeschooling supplies. Please visit us at www. timberdoodle.com

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• Veritas Press – Specializes in providing educational materials for a classical Christian education. Scripted lesson plans with a complete curriculum package or online classes with expert teachers available. Please visit www. veritaspress.com for more information or a free catalog.

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• Winter Promise - Winter Promise celebrates the strengths of family by building unity, togetherness and memories. Our captivating programs will excite your family’s curiosity and our interactive learning opportunities will involve every type of learner. www.winterpromise.com

Special Needs

Bellerophon Books – Books covering art, literature, history, etc. www.bellerophonbooks.com

www.autismtoday.com: Everything you need to know about autism www.autism-society.org: Information, education and support for families www.autism-pdd.net/inks/alabama.html: Information and support www.wrightslaw.com: Special education law and advocacy for children with disabilities www.mitchells-place.com: Diagnostic services, treatment, education and support for families

Resources A to Z Home’s Cool – Curriculum and information; http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com Becky’s Porch Swing – 425 Coliseum Blvd., Montgomery, AL. We are located inside the Eastbrook Flea Market, downstairs in booth 409 and 398. A Garden of books and resources for home education. “Plant a good book…and watch a great mind grow.” We have the best selection, and the best prices, all under one roof. For more information please call, Becky at 270-1557 or email beckyrod@knology.net. Open every day: Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Sunday 12:30 until 4:30 p.m.

Beautiful Feet History and Science Curriculum – Offers classic and historic works that nurture a love for reading. www.bfbooks.com Chem4kids- Wonderful chemistry website for kids. www.chem4kids.com Children’s Books- Wide assortment of curricula and books. www.homeschooldiscountproducts.com Christian Liberty Press – Large assortment for the Christ centered biblical approach. www.christianbook.com Distance Learning Integrators- Electronic field trips. www.efieldtrips.org Greenleaf Press – The original and still the best resources for teaching history and literature chronologically. www.greenleafpress.com Hands of a Child – Large variety of Lapbook kits. www.handsofachild.com Hearthsong – Unique toys, games, puzzles, dolls, arts and crafts. www.hearthsong.com Homeschool Super Center – Secular and religious material offered. www.homeschool supercenter.com Home Science Tools – Affordable Science tools and kits for hands on experimentation. www.homesciencetools.com

One of the many reasons to smile...

“ ” Prattville Location 460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, AL 36066 (334) 358-6411

www.SmilesFromUs.com 67

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

is: “You get out what you put in!” We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at the Coosada Baptist Church (Annex). Membership is free! Just bring your children and your enthusiasm. We feel that we can conduct our adult discussions with our children in the room, so there is no cost for childcare at ECHO! Our meetings provide practical support for parents while our children participate in supervised activities and playtime. From small things, great things grow -- ECHO is like that. What you put in, what you plant, is what comes out, and with care it will GROW! So get to know your fellow homeschoolers while your children make some homeschooled friends!

Learning Things – The Education Store www.learningthings.com

Yesterday’s Classics- Classic Books for Children http://www.yesterdaysclassics.com/

Mindware – Educational toys, games and learning toys. www.mindware.com

Zoom Kitchen Chemistry Explore the virtual kitchen and perform online experiments. http://pbskids.org/zoom/games/ kitchenchemistry/

PATH Parent at the Helm was created by veteran homeschooling parent Linda Dobson. PATH is the place to find the impetus to take charge of your child’s education…no matter where that may come from. www.ParentattheHelm.com Rainbow Resource Center – Educational Books and Curriculum at Great Prices http://www.rainbowresource.com/index.php Real Science 4 Kids - Science Curriculum from Preschool to Highschool. Please visit www. gravitaspublications.com ROCK Solid – Educational Books and Curriculum at Great Prices. www.rocksolidinc.com Store for Knowledge – A variety of kits, models and toys. www.storeforknowledge.com The Homeschool Lounge The Homeschool Lounge is a place for homeschool moms to connect for support, encouragement, a fellowship and fun. www.thehomeschoollounge.com The Homeschool Village The Homeschool village offers articles written by homeschool moms giving sound advice, suggestions, and encouragement; and offering connections with homeschool bloggers. www.thehomeschoolvillage.com Timberdoodle - Fully customizable, budget friendly, complete curriculum and more! www.timberdoodle.com Vision Forum – Christian based company with inspirational toys, books, classical reading. Wonderful website! www.visionforum.com White House Kids – News, history and games. www.whitehouse.gov/kids Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Also, check with your local library for resources.

Support Groups & Supplemental Instruction • Academy Days Homeschool Co-op Carren Joye, carren@outlookacademy.com http://www.academydays.com Upcoming classes at the Academy Days co-op vary from Spanish, Introduction to Literature & Composition, Bible in Today’s Time, Family Tree Research, Literature & Creative Writing, Study Hall, Creative Writing, Art, Psychology, Chess, Constitutional Law, World Geography, Apologia’s Science and many more! Held weekly during the school year at Grace Community Church in Millbrook, this affordable co-op is designed for students (preschool through high school) to gather for subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group setting. The co-op is open to all homeschoolers of any covering. • Charlotte Mason Contact: Donna Jo Smith, 262.1313 This group holds monthly meetings for fellowship, encouragement and application of Charlotte Mason’s educational philosophies for our homeschooling families. We also host speaker seminars with regional CM experts and maintain a members only yahoo group to share encouragement, ideas and information. • Elmore County Homeschool Organization (ECHO) http://www.onlineecho.com; http://groups. yahoo.com/group/homeschoolecho We are a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area (Elmore, Autauga, Montgomery) of Alabama. Our motto at ECHO 68

• Fellowship of Home Educators (FHE) http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ fhenewsandinfo/ FHE is a group of families in Prattville and surrounding area who support one another in the area of home education. We offer many educational opportunities as well as social gathering for our children. • Gateway Academy Supplemental Classroom Instruction (Open to families from multiple homeschool coverings) 3300 Bell Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Phone: (334) 272.9494 Wide variety of classes offered for the 20142015 school year. There is a $75 per family per year (due upon enrollment) registration fee. Tuition is $330 per student per class broken into 3 payments. Please visit our website at http://gateway-academy.com to view available classes and to payment options. • L.I.F.T. Sharon Hubbard, 286.9957 LIFT is a supplemental program to homeschooling your students. It was developed with the intention of assisting parents of students 12 years old through students 19 years old in areas they may not feel fully confident to teach. Members of other church school ministries who pay the activities fee to Ezekiel Academy may participate in LIFT during the school year. Large variety of classes offered. Please visit us at www.liftmontgomery.org . • Maxwell Area Home Educators (MAHE) http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MAHE/ Maxwell Area Home Educators is a support group formed primarily to encourage military homeschoolers in the MGM (Maxwell/Gunter/ Montgomery) area regardless of their reasons for homeschooling, philosophy, or method of instruction. MAHE is NOT a legal “church school,” but a network of homeschoolers working together to assist one another in our homeschooling efforts. If you are new to homeschooling or are long term homeschool parents looking to broaden your child’s academic experience, there is much we can do to help you. • PEAK of Montgomery Homeschool Group Parent Educators and Kids (PEAK) of Montgomery is an inclusive, member-led group of homeschooling families who meet regularly for field trips, park days and other social and educational activities. We welcome all local home educators who enjoy sharing and learning within a diverse community. To join us, visit us at www.peaknetwork.org/montgomery. www.montgomeryparents.com

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• Sylvan Learning Center Home School

(334) 262.0043 2640 Zelda Road, Montgomery, AL 36107 The Sylvan Learning Center in Montgomery is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and offers Home School services for children in grades K through 12. Students receive 560 hours of instruction in Math, Science, History, and Reading/English. Home School instruction is offered Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. State required electives are completed outside of the Learning Center as an independent study. Requirements: Transcripts from previous school withdrawal letter from previous school. Proof of registration with Home School Organization Cost: Please call for pricing. (Dependent upon which payment option is selected). For more information please visit us at www.sylvanlearning.com.

Workshops & Book Sales • Alabama Homeschool Expo June 12-14 at the Montgomery Convention Center. Look for discounts and details at AlabamaHomeschoolexpo.com. • AUM Homeschool Programs AUM’s Homeschool classes are enrichment classes that are specially designed for homeschool students. They are not designed to replace curriculum. Class sizes are small so students receive individualized attention. All classes are hands on. Our goal is to offer learning experiences that parents are not able or willing to attempt at home. Classes will resume in September and a complete schedule will be available in August. For more information please call 244.2804 or visit us at www.aum.edu and click on the Continuing Education tap at the top right and scroll down to Youth programs. • Evangel Family Christian Academy Used Book Sale Saturday, June 21st, 9:30 a.m. -2 p.m. in the Evangel Gym. The used book sale is for all who desire to attend. Table space must be reserved for families who are NOT EFCA members ($20.00 fee) by calling EFCA by Friday, June 20th. • CHEF Home School Conference – June 19-20 in Gardendale, AL at Gardendale First Baptist Church. www.chefofalabama.org CHEF of Alabama serves all home educators in Alabama by providing information, services, and resources from a Christian perspective to anyone who needs help in the area of homeschooling. CHEF had a huge Homeschool Convention and Curriculum Fair every year. To find our more about CHEF please www.chefofalabama.org. • ABEKA Homeschool Materials Display in Montgomery June 13-14, The Montgomery Convention Center for the Alabama Homeschool Expo July 9, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express, 203 Legends Court, Prattville, Al. August 27, 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Comfort Inn & Suites - in Eastchase. Please visit Abeka’s website for dates in other locations. 69

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1803 West Bird St., Montgomery, (334) 657.7685 or (334) 593.3419. Variety of classes offered in piano, music and voice. Registration is going on now thru August. Please visit our website for more information www.artsinmotioninc.org. • AUM Homeschool Science Labs Don’t want to purchase tons of supplies for one science experiment? Don’t want to clean up the mess after the experiment? If so, AUM Home School labs are just right for you. These labs are developed specifically to enrich what you are teaching at home. Our labs are full of hands on learning opportunities. Please call 244.3804 or 244.3339 for more information or visit www.aum.edu/coned to learn more.

• Southeast Homeschool EXPO July 24-26 Cobb Galleria in Marietta, GA. The Homeschool Expo is a “don’t miss” whole family two day event with hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of products where parents can review and purchase the latest curriculum, hear great speakers who give practical encouragement, and receive personalized help and answers to any questions. Please visit www.southeasthomeschoolexpo.com.

Extra-curricular Activities • Armory Gymnastics Center 1018 Madison Avenue, (334) 241.2789 Classes for ages 2 years and up. Cost: $40 per month (2 classes per week) Additional siblings receive 60% discount. Mondays and Wednesday classes: 12:30-1:30 or 1:30-2:30. Tuesday and Thursday classes: 12:30-1:30 or 1:30-2:30. Please call for more information.

• Arts in Motion

Diana Gray-Williams

• Brunswick Zone Home School Bowling League 1661 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery, AL The Home School League will meet in September. Please call closer to this time to get the exact date. At this meeting the parents will decide what day and what time Home School League will meet. All ages of home school students are invited to bowl in this league. For more information about the league contact us at (334) 819.7171.

• Docarmo’s Takewondo Center 3179 Taylor Rd. Phone: (334) 220.5835 Homeschooling classes year round

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8159 Vaughn Road Phone: 277.4911 or 467.5762 Instructor: Master Carole Coker Offers homeschool classes Monday through Saturdays at various times starting at age 2. Private classes. Instructor has master’s degree in early childhood education and special education (Only school that offers work with Autism, Aspergers, ADD, and ADHD). We have a full workout room for mom’s while children are in class. Free tutoring from certified teacher for all children. Homework checked. Outstanding academic achievement receives treasure chest rewards. Each homeschooler’s report card displayed on Wall of Fame. Students earn bonus bucks for pro-shop. Call for FREE class today. • Homeschool Skate Day at Looney’s Super Skate Phone: (334) 281.1032 September thru May, 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month; Time: 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. $3.00 per skater (includes skate rental) • McWane Science Center Labs 200 Nineteenth Street North, Birmingham, AL (205) 714.8359; www.mcwane.org McWane Science Center Labs are designed to supplement what you are teaching at home. Students will be able to use equipment and take part in experiments that are not easily executed in the home classroom. Our labs fall within the standards of the Alabama Course of Study as well as the National Science Standards. • Pizzaz Art Studio 354.1975, 138 W. Main St. Downtown Prattville Homeschool art classes offered on Wednesday’s starting in September. Please visit our website at www.prattille.pzazzart.com for more information. • River Region Homeschool Band Meets on Thursdays beginning in September at Fountain of Grace Church in Prattville. We offer a beginner class and Intermediate/Advanced Class. $40 per month with an additional discount for family members. Please check us out on Facebook under River Region Homeschool Band for any updates. Please call Ted Mann at (334) 312.1486.

• United Gymstars

6100 Brewbaker Blvd., (334) 284.2244 What a great way to get in physical education. Classes are offered on Wednesday from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. for ages 6 and up. A waiver is signed for each participant. Cost is $6.00 per child per visit. • YMCA Homeschool Physical Education Select YMCA’s offer PE to homeschoolers for an hour. Please call your local branch for more information.

Recommended Reading The Well Trained Mind…Guide to Classical Education at Home by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise Great book for resources. 100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum by Cathy Duffy The Homeschooling Handbook by Mary Griffith Making the Decision and Getting Started. The Way They Learn by Cynthia Ulrich Tobias Discover and teach to your child’s strengths. 71

For the Children’s Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macalay The Five Love Languages of Children by Chapman & Campbell The Practical Home Schooling Magazine by Mary Pride The Big Books of Home Learning by Mary Pride mp If you provide any services or resources to homeschooling families and you were not listed in this issue, please contact us at editor@montgomeryparents.com. We want to make sure you are included!

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United Gymstars & Cheer End Competition Season

The Levels 4-8 boys’ gymnastics teams at United Gymstars and Cheer ended their competition season March 14-16. The State meet, which was held at Southern States Gymnastics in Huntsville, ended with a big win for the Level 4 team, who placed first out of seven teams, and also included several individual state champions. Level 4 individual scores include Noah Ingram (Division 7-8) placing first on all six events, including first All-Around. Caden Greene (Div. 7-8) placed second on the pommel horse, third on the vault, third (tied) on the high bar, fifth on the parallel bars, sixth on the floor and third All-Around. Darren Zustiak (Div. 7-8) placed first on the vault, second (tied) on the parallel bars, and third All-Around. Clayton Bizzle (Div. 7-8) tied for fourth on the high bar, came in fifth on the floor, pommel horse, rings, vault, and parallel bars, and placed sixth in the All-Around. Luke Pollock (Div. 9-10) placed third on the rings and tied for fourth on the vault. Will Gulsby (7-8) came in eighth on the pommel horse and thirteenth in the AllAround. The Level 5 team took third place in the team category, while Braeden Kimbrell (Division 9-10) placed fourth on the pommel horse, fifth on the high bar, and seventh All-Around. Cole Wallace (Div. 11+) came in fifth place on the pommel horse, rings, parallel bars, and high bar, and placed fourth All-Around. Austin Lin (Div. 11+) placed first on the vault, fourth on the floor and high bar, and sixth in the All-Around. Tucker Ayers (Div. 11+) tied for fifth on the floor and vault, and sixth on the rings. Andrew Lin (Div. 11+) placed first on the high bar. The Level 6 team consisted of Will Wilson (Division Montgomery Parents I June 2014

9-10) placing first on pommel horse, rings, floor, vault, and parallel bars, second on the high bar, and first All-Around. Zachery Brockett (Division 9-10) on the Level 7 team placed first on all six events, along with first All-Around. The Level 8 team included Caleb McGaughey (Division 15-18) placing first on the floor, rings, and vault; second on the pommel horse, parallel bars, and high bar, and first All-Around. Doug Rose (Div. 15-18) placed first on the pommel horse, parallel bars, and high bar, and second on the floor, rings, vault, and All-Around. Rose also qualified to attend the 2014 Regional Meet in Birmingham, along with McGaughey, Wilson and Brockett. Coaches for the boys’ team include head coach Ken Marcum, and assistant coach Jackson Boan. The Xcel Gold and Platinum, and Level 7 and 8 girls’ teams at United Gymstars and Cheer competed in their end of the season State meet in Huntsville March 21-23. On the Xcel Gold, Senior A division, Alana Jones tied for second on the vault (9.300) and beam (9.2500), placed fifth on the floor (9.275), sixth on the bars (9.375), and third All-Around (37.200). Madeline Sinco placed second on floor, fifth on bars (9.450), seventh on vault (9.125), eighth on beam (8.725), and fifth All-Around (36.700). In the Senior B division, Kelly Yoon placed second on bars (9.450), third on floor (9.150), fourth on beam (8.875) and vault (9.175), and second All-Around (36.650). In the Junior A division, Mattie Moulton placed fifth on bars (9.425) and beam (9.175), eighth on floor (9.300), tenth on vault (8.800), and seventh All-Around (36.700). Olivia Woodham placed third on vault (9.175), seventh on beam (8.975), tenth on bars (9.050) and floor (9.250), and tenth AllAround (36.450). In the Junior B division, Cameryn Cool placed fourth on bars (9.525), tied for fifth on vault (9.100), tied for seventh on beam (8.900), eighth on floor (9.275) and fifth All-Around (36.800). Tori Haire placed sixth on floor (9.350) and bars (9.425), tied for seventh on beam (8.900), tied for ninth on vault (8.900), and seventh All-Around (36575). Ana Jones came in fifth on floor (9.375), sixth on beam (8.950), seventh on vault (8.950), tied for ninth on bars (9.050), and ninth All-Around (36.325). In the Junior C division, Auburn Wilcoxson placed ninth on bars (9.225), tenth on vault (9.000), beam (9.175) and floor (9.150), and ninth All-Around (36.550). 72

On the Xcel Platinum, Senior A division, Ann Cobern Chapman placed first on bars (9.550) and floor (9.550), third on beam (9.400), tied fifth on vault (9.100), and second All-Around (37.600). Freedom Stough placed seventh on vault (8.750), bars (8.650), beam (8.675), floor (9.025), and All-Around (35.100). In the Senior B division, Mary Kathryn Cook placed second on bars (9.500) and beam (9.250), tied for fourth on vault (9.225), fifth on floor (8.950), and third All-Around (36.925). In the Junior A division, Claudia Hines tied for third on vault (9.350), fourth on bars (9.400), fifth on beam (9.300), sixth on floor (9.350), and fifth All-Around (37.400). On the Level 7 team, Senior A division, Mary Jane McConnell placed first on beam (9.400), sixth on floor (9.150), seventh on bars (8.475), ninth on vault (9.050), and fourth All-Around (36.075). In the Junior A division, Erin Grigsby placed second on vault (9.425), tied for sixth on bars (9.250), seventh on floor (9.225), twelfth on beam (8.000) and ninth All-Around (39.900). In the Junior B division, Jordan Warren placed on third on the floor (9.250), tied for third on vault (9.400), seventh on bars (8.885), tenth on beam (8.600) and fourth All-Around (36.100). Olivia Lynch tied for sixth on vault (9.225), tied for seventh on floor (9.075), eighth on bars (8.525) and beam (8.800), and sixth All-Around (35.625). In the Level 8, Senior B division, Mary Katherine Head placed first on beam (9.200), second on vault (9.325) and floor (9.025), fourth on bars (8.500), and tied for first in the All-Around (36.050). In the Junior A division, Carina Jordan came in fifth on the floor (9.200), tied for sixth on the vault (8.975), eighth on beam (8.925), ninth on bars (8.975), and eighth All-Around (36.025). These girls are coached by head coaches Meg Henry and Michael Wheat and assistant coaches Rudi Gaddis and April Dorminey.

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Family Karate Center Promotes New Black Belts

After four years of training in the martial arts, Family Karate Center’s Master Carole Smith had the honor of testing Kaitlin and Alex Luce to their black belts recently. Their promotion on May 21 was exciting for all students to witness, but bittersweet for Master Smith,as the Luces are a military family set to transfer just days later. “Training Alex and Kaitlin has been a joy and a wonderful journey together,” said Master Smith. “We feel blessed that the Luces chose our school as their temporary home during their year here at Maxwell Air Force Base.” The Family Karate Center is offering an open house for ALL military families in June! Stop by for a free tour of the training facility and free fitness center for parents. The Open House every Saturday is open to everyone. Call 220-9319 for your free introductory WEEK, with a free uniform in June!

AUM Crowns Homecoming Prince and Princess

Montgomery native Chris Searcy was crowned Homecoming Prince 2014 at Auburn Montgomery. Searcy is a freshman majoring in political science. Sponsored by Freshman 50, he is active in SGA, ROTC, and the International Student Association. Shown with Searcy is Homecoming Princess Megan Moody of Wetumpka. Photo by Frank C. Williams, AUM. 73

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A Page in a Book by Gerry Paige Smith

We All Have a Story to Tell From the moment they begin to string words together, kids are off on their own storytelling adventures! Whether it’s disjointed narratives of their pretend-play or more cohesive descriptions of events in their lives, children love a good story – real or imagined. As they hear stories repeated, kids begin to recognize the elements that construct tales; the setting, the characters, and the plot. And for kids who love reading books, it’s a natural next step for them to want to craft stories of their own. The following titles are entertaining explorations of the art of story-telling. Whether the medium is art, voice or the writtenword, everyone has a story – and the charm is in the telling.

Lost for Words

by Natalie Russell (Peachtree) Prepared with a nice new notebook and colored pencils, Tapir is ready to create a story between its covers. But when nothing comes to mind as he confronts the blank, white pages, Tapir goes to visit his friends in hopes of overcoming his writer’s block. He learns that Giraffe fills his notebook with poetry. Hippo uses his notebook to tell exciting (mostly autobiographical) stories. Flamingo writes song lyrics and music onto her pages. Impressed by his friends’ talents, Tapir is still coming up empty for ideas of his own. After searching for inspiration, Tapir finally retreats to a quiet hilltop. And what he sees inspires him to put his pencils to the page – to finally tell his own story. A sweet reminder that not all tales need words, this book is a celebration of all the different ways a story can be told.

Help! We Need a Title!

by Herve Tullet (Candlewick) From the moment the first page turns, readers enter into a conversation with the casually drawn and engaging figures in Help! We Need a Title. An incongruous team of characters are surprised to the see the reader open their book – and are also unprepared with a story to tell. They make some false starts trying to entertain the reader before they decide what’s really needed is an author. When they pull the reluctant author into the picture with them, he organizes their suggestions into a short, but sweet story for the reader. The direct engagement of the characters as they break the “fourth wall” will delight both the read-aloud and independent reading sets. Originally published in France, Tullet’s candid style is ideal for introducing the elements of storytelling to young readers!

Ike’s Incredible Ink

by Brianne Farley (Candlewick) As a dedicated reader and lover of good stories, Ike feels ready to write one of his own. But getting started is hard. Ike can’t start this project without the perfect ink. He embarks on a long journey to find the best ingredients. Securing shady and mysterious shadows are first on his list. Tracking and plucking the black feathers on the Booga bird are next. Collecting the velvety dark of the moon requires extraordinary preparation and some rocketry (but Ike gets there and back). Once his critical black hues are collected and processed for his perfect ink, Ike sits at this desk with his ink pen ready to write. And the story that follows is the perfect culmination of Ike’s desire to write a story that’s all his own!

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

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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Vacation Bible School June 23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 27 :: 9:00 AM to Noon ages 4 through 6th grade :: FREE!

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305 South Perry Street | Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.631075 | www.montgomeryfbc.org www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

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Parenting may be the greatest balancing act on earth. We want children to become independent, but it’s hard to move past the image we have of them in infancy. With the best intentions, parents may stifle kids’ self-esteem, inner confidence, and self-reliance by continuing to do things for them that they should be doing for themselves. Children can’t flourish if parents hold on too tight. But they grow by leaps and bounds when they’re allowed to make their own choices and mistakes. The key is to let kids test their skills in developmentally appropriate ways. 76 Here’s how.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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Dress

Kids who choose their own clothes and dress themselves learn to take responsibility for self-care and take pride in their appearance. Allow your toddler to choose what she’ll wear from two or three outfits you’ve identified. Constrained choices prevent overwhelm and ensure your child will be dressed appropriately. Preschoolers may need extra time to put on their own clothes. Tweak your morning routine to make time for it. Keep clothing in low drawers kids can reach and designate a shoe bin in the closet or entry area. Let kids practice buttoning shirts and putting on socks. These tasks build fine motor control and spatial skills. Don’t worry if your child’s shoes are on the wrong feet or her shirt is backward. Praise her efforts and encourage another attempt. Teach school-aged kids how to consult the weather forecast on TV or online and to make situational judgments about what to wear. Choosing weather- and activity-appropriate clothing reinforces decision-making skills and autonomy. Let unconventional style choices slide. No one ever died from dying their hair purple or from wearing polka dots with plaid.

Eat

Independent eating builds kids’ eating confidence and helps them tune in to internal cues about hunger, says registered dietician Maryann Jacobsen, MS, co-author of Fearless Feeding. “When parents require kids to take extra bites, force veggies or have children eat past fullness, it decreases confidence and makes eating less fun,” she says. You don’t have to let kids eat cake to foster independence. “Parents have lots of control in terms of how they stock their kitchens, what food is offered, and when and where it is eaten,” Jacobsen says. At meal

time, serve three to five healthy foods in a family-style display, including lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and fats. Let kids choose how much to take of each item. And don’t fret if your child won’t eat a certain food. “Research shows it can take up to 15 exposures for young children to learn to like a food,” Jacobsen says, “and my experience tells me it often takes more than that.” Encourage kids to help out in the kitchen as well. Preschoolers can toss a green salad, school-age kids can make sandwiches and burritos, and teens can cook dinner once in a while. Kids who have learned basic cooking skills at home are less likely to turn into junkfood junkies when they go away to college.

Play

Educator Deb Moberly, Ph.D., founder of St. Louis, Missouri-based early childhood development consultancy Children 1st, says parents should respect kids’ desires to do things “by themselves.” That means letting them hold their own bubble soap, even if they are likely to spill it all over the back patio. Learning can be a messy process. “Quality preschool programs support independence by letting the children select their own activities,” Moberly says, and parents can do the same at home. Establish simple ground rules – such as the play dough stays on the play table – then step away. Allow kids to decide when to switch activities, as long as they clean up one activity before moving on to the next. Facilitate kids’ cleanup efforts by designating which toys belong in which places. Playing with peers builds both selfreliance and social skills. Humanist educator Jen Hancock, author of The Bully Vaccine, worries kids don’t get enough unstructured play time in mixed-age groups because parents don’t trust kids’ peers anymore. This wariness is something we must move past.

Hancock’s 7-year-old son spends most weekends playing with other kids in the neighborhood. “This is possible because all the parents have been introduced to each other and have each other’s phone numbers,” she says. “It is really nice having the trust in the neighborhood and knowing that the kids are doing what they are supposed to be doing: Getting into a little bit of ‘safe’ trouble.”

Spend

Mom Tracie Shroyer, co-author of Investing in Your 401k Kid, says today’s kids need the skills to be financially independent, too. “Kids don’t learn much besides coincounting in school and they look to parents for everything they get. Very few are taught to save their money for larger purchases. In the current economy, this is a scary thought,” Shroyer says. If kids don’t get smart about spending, they’ll be the first generation of kids less affluent than their parents. Begin giving your child small amounts of money and letting him choose how to spend (or save) it. This means your child won’t be begging you for items from the dollar bin – he’ll be deciding what he can afford and whether items are worth what they cost. Increase his spending power and responsibilities over time. Giving tweens and teens discretion over buying back-to-school clothes and school lunches teaches them to budget and prioritize. It may feel strange to hand over the cash, but remember: The money you are giving your kids is the money you would spend on them anyway. Don’t add to the budget if your kid blows it. “The only road to financial responsibility is learning from mistakes,” Shroyer says. It’s better to learn from cheap mistakes in childhood than expensive mistakes later on. mp Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mom whose 3-year-old daughter wears stripes with polka dots and plaid. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

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July 4 th Celebrations! Annual Flag Boat Parade Friday, July 4, beginning at 12 p.m. at Kowaliga Marina on Lake Martin. Boats of all sizes parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor and back. Onlookers from the shoreline and water can watch free of charge. Boat registration is due by July 1. Forms can be picked up at any Russell Marine location - Kowaliga, Real Island, The Ridge and River North. For out-of-towners, call (334) 857.2111 to request a form. Registration is free.

Prattville Celebration 2014 Schedule of Events Annual 4th of July Parade On Friday, July 4th at 9am, family members of all ages will enjoy the fire engines, candy, floats and more. This years Grand Marshals are the Gulf War Veterans of Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Bring your lawn chair and set up early for a good spot along the parade route. The one mile route goes through downtown and ends at Pratt Park. Roads will be closed during the parade. For more information, call 595-0854. Annual Lion’s Club BBQ & Cardboard Boat Races After the parade, join the fun at the annual Lion’s Club BBQ and Camp Stew Sale at Pratt Park. Baked Goods will be for sale. Music, a patriotic program, a children’s fun area and lots of arts and crafts. 10am-3pm. Free admission. Call 358.1068 for info. The annual Cardboard Boat Races begin at 10am, with teams creating their competition boats out of cardboard and duct tape. Prizes include: Longest floating boat, the Titanic award for most dramatic sink, Most Creative and more. For information, call the Dept. of Leisure Services at 361.3640. Severe Weather and Fire Safety Training The Prattville Fire Department will have their Life Safety Trailer on display at Pratt Park from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Bring your children by to learn important safety tips through hands-on activities. Children will learn what to do in case of a fire, severe weather, and more. Fireworks Presentation Get ready for lots of “oohs” and “aahs”, as Montgomery Parents I June 2014

the spectacular fireworks display begins at dark, at Stanley-Jensen Stadium. Come early and get a great seat or bring your own lawn chair. No pets, alcoholic beverages or glass containers allowed. Gates open at 6pm. Enjoy food and beverage vendors, patriotic program by the Prattville Pops and Community Chorus. Harold Grooms will be doing the Patriotic program. Admission is free. Volunteers Volunteers needed. It takes a lot of volunteers to make this event happen. Great for youth and adult community service organizations. Call 595.0854 for more info. Visit www. prattvilleal.gov for more information.

Russell Lands Fourth of July Fireworks and Celebration Lake Martin Amphitheater will host a night of music and fireworks on Friday, July 4, beginning at 5 p.m. Show starts at 7:00 p.m. and fireworks will being at 9 p.m. (This is one of the Southeast’s largest fireworks show.) Children’s activities will be conducted by Children’s Harbor throughout the evening. The fireworks show is free (from an open field adjacent to the amphitheater or by boat), but for the best seat in the house and to enjoy the musical entertainment, tickets are available at the gate or through Ticketmaster, with children under 6 free. Proceeds benefit Lake Martin area charities. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics. Concessions are also available. The Lake Martin Amphitheater is located on Highway 63 about 1 mile south of Kowaliga Bridge. For more information call (256) 397.1019 or visit http://www.lmat.org/ fourth.html.

2014 Fourth of July Picnic on the River Friday, July 4, Gates open at 5 p.m. Live Entertainment, Fireworks, Rib Eating contest sponsored by Dreamland BBQ, Food Vendors, Children’s Activities and Fireworks Cruise on the Harriott II. Immediately following the Biscuits ballgame there will be a Fireworks Spectacular. July 4th Picnic on the River presented by Wind Creek Hospitality and Capitol Hyundai. Visit www.funontheriver.net or call (334) 241.2726. 78

Callaway Gardens July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at our annual July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach activities, live music - headlined by the Swingin’ Medallions, the FSU Flying High Circus and our annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Be sure to pack plenty of red, white and blue for this All-American Weekend! Please visit www.callawaygardens.com for more information.

Pike Road “Symbols of Our Freedom” Parade Friday, July 4 Registration and assembly begins at 9 a.m. at the Pike Road Baptist Church. Parade begins at 10 a.m. Patriotic parade with floats, riders, horses, antique automobiles and more. Sponsored by the Pike Road Community Club. Activities end at The Feed Lot with prizes awarded. Please call (334) 281.6306.

Pike Road Summer Fest Friday, July 4th Will be held at the Waters off of Marlar Rd. Come join us for family fun, food and fireworks. Food vendors, live music and spectacular fireworks. $10 per car load. Gates open at 5:30. Events begin at 6 p.m. and fireworks at dark. Call (334) 272.9883.

Wetumpka Celebration Friday, July 4th @ 7 p.m. Fireworks and Entertainment Fireworks will be at 9 p.m. at the Downtown Wetumpka at County Courthouse. Please visit www.cityofwetumpka.com for more information and updates or call (334) 567.5147 for an application for the contests.

Cloverdale-Idlewild Parade Celebrating the Star Spangled Banner Friday, July 4, at 2 p.m. at the corner of Plymouth and Lexington. Ends at Bottom Park on Cloverdale Rd. Drums, bikes, floats; program at end of parade. Dress in your red, white and blue and join this old fashioned 4th of July celebration. Contact Charlie Colvin, 834.6030. www.montgomeryparents.com

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12U Dirtbags Claim 2nd in Circle City Classic

The 12U Dirtbags opened their Spring 2014 season by going 4-1 and coming in second place at the Circle City Classic in Dothan March 22 and 23. In the opening pool play game on Saturday, the Dirtbags defeated Chatt Valley (Phenix City) 11-3. Payne Griffin and Bubba Adams combined for the victory on the mound. Griffin surrendered two hits and Adams held the opposition hitless in the victory. The Dirtbags combined for 10 hits and were led by Campbell Cleveland, Gage Cumbie and Cam Holmes, who all contributed two hits apiece. Cleveland’s hits included a triple and Holmes contributed with a double. In the second game of pool play, the Dirtbags raced past the LA Bombers (Dothan) 16-0 in two and a half innings of play. Cleveland pitched to two batters above the minimum striking out six. He did not surrender any hits. Adams, Cleveland and John Siary led the Dirtbags at the plate with two hits apiece. Adams and Cleveland each had triples. Siary had two homeruns. Griffin also contributed with a triple. Zak Haynes, Copeland Hilyer and Easton Wilcoxson each had hits in pool play games. The Dirtbags entered the Sunday elimination bracket as the first seed. The Dirtbags beat the Bama Bombers (Dothan) 6-5 in the quarterfinals. Once again Griffin and Adams combined to pitch the Dirtbags to victory. Adams came on in relief of Griffin and surrendered only one hit in three innings. Griffin, Adams and Cleveland each had two hits again in the quarterfinal game. Griffin contributed a triple and Cleveland contributed a double. In the semifinal game, the Dirtbags took on Stealth 182 (Albany, Ga.). The Dirtbags ran away from Stealth 11-3. Siary pitched the Dirtbags past the Georgia squad. Siary gave up one hit in four innings and struck out four. Adams had three hits in the semifinals including a homerun. In the championship game the Dirtbags faced Line Drive Baseball (Enterprise). Cumbie pitched all five innings for the Dirtbags and only surrendered four hits, three coming to the first three batters of the game. An error broke open a close game in the last inning and Line Drive won 7-0. The Dirtbags’ bats were stymied by good pitching from Line Drive. The Dirtbags could only muster two hits, Adams picking up a double and Wilcoxson adding a single. After the first spring tournament, the Dirtbags 12U record stood at 16-4 overall and out of the six tournaments they have entered, they have won two and come in runner-up in three.

Pink & Pearls for Girls Celebrates Youth Art

Pink and Pearls for Girls recently celebrated Youth Art Month. This year’s theme was “Paper Art,” where the girls expressed their creativity by making art from all types of paper. The girls’ artwork was showcased at their very own art gallery. Afterward, they enjoyed a St. Patrick’s Day party. For more information on how to become a member, please call Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091.

To share news about your group’s special events, e-mail editor @montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Montgomery Voted Best Historic City

Montgomery took the number-one spot among winners of the Best Historic City category in the 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest sponsored by USA TODAY. The city will be promoted in USA Today, in both the print version, and usatoday.com’s travel homefront where it will remain in rotation for some time. Montgomery received more votes than cities such as Boston, Philadelphia and New Orleans, among others. The full list of winners can be found at www.10best.com/ awards/travel/best-historic-city. “This is great news for our city, a place with immense history and the setting for some of the most seminal moments in our nation’s history – from the Civil War to Civil Rights to civil aviation,” said Mayor Todd Strange in a release earlier today. “As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March and 60th anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott next year, visitors will not only experience our history, but they will discover there’s a whole lot more to Montgomery, like our revitalized riverfront, the vibrant downtown entertainment district and world-class cultural institutions. Thank you to our residents, community leaders, USA Today readers and everyone else who voted for Montgomery as the Best Historic City in the nation.” The 10Best Readers’ Choice Award contest launches one new category each Monday at noon, revealing its 20 nominees. After 4 weeks of voting, the contest closes on the 28th day at noon. On Day 30, winners are revealed. Rules allow the public the right to vote online for one nominee per category, per day. Nominees for all categories are chosen by a panel of relevant experts which include a combination of editors from USA TODAY; editors from 10Best.com; relevant expert contributors and sources for both these media and other Gannett properties. The nomination panel for each travel award category is displayed on its associated contest page. All voting is digital and the 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Award contest is accessible on the 10Best.com website. For more information about Montgomery’s Historic attractions go to www. visitingmontgomery.com.

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Armory Girl Gymnasts Complete Season

Armory Athletics, located in downtown Montgomery, has completed another competitive gymnastics season. Girls’ coaches include Missy Anderson (Armory Director) and Christy Tumlison (girls’ head coach). On March 21, Morgan Ward, a level 8 gymnast at Armory, competed in the 2014 Alabama Optional State meet in Huntsville. With a total score of 36.0500, Ward is the Optional Women’s level 8 All Around State Champion. She placed 3rd on vault with a score of 9.0, 2nd on the uneven bars with 9.025, 2nd on the balance beam with 9.075, and 4th on her floor routine with a score of 8.95. Ward has been a dedicated gymnastics for 12 ½ years at the Armory where she began at the age of 4. She practices an average of 15 hours each week. In addition, Ward qualified to go to 2014 USAG Region 8 Women’s Championships along with level 7 teammates Carsyn Jones and Emma Grace Broach, level 8 teammates Grace Phung and Alex Devos, and level 9 teammate Jermenee Taylor.

Prattville Holds Little Miss Firecracker Pageant

The 4th Annual Little Miss Firecracker Pageant will be held Saturday, June 21, at the Destiny Christian Center, located at 1852 Hwy. 14E in Prattville. The pageant, hosted by Sterling Miss Productions, is open to young girls, ages 12 month to 17 years, who live in Alabama. Applications are due no later than Friday, June 13. Every young lady will receive a participation pageant crown and sash. There will be seven age categories for the pageant: Baby Miss: 12 month–23 months, Tiny Miss: 24 -36 mos., Petite Miss: 37 months-5 years, Little Miss: 6-8, Young Miss: 9–11, Pre-Teen Miss: 12–14 years and Teen Miss: 15 –17 years. The contestant must be that age by the date of the competition. A Bitty Baby category may be added for ages 1 month – 11 months, if there are enough contestants. Division groups Little Miss to Teen Miss will compete at 1:30 p.m. Babies to Petite Miss will compete at 4 p.m. This is a semi-natural pageant where age-appropriate attire and a “natural” look are stressed. Attire for the competition is age-appropriate Patriotic Wear. Suggestions for attire (but NOT limited to the following) are: sundresses, short sets, capri sets… outfits that show your contestant’s personality. The child is NOT judged on the outfit but on the presentation. Those that would like to be judged on the outfit should enter the Optional Category: Best Casual Wear. No other wardrobe is required for this pageant. The registration fee for the pageant is $40, plus any optional categories in which the contestant chooses to participate. The scores for the Optionals are not included in the contestant’s total scores but are judged separately for additional chances for a contestant to win. Optional categories in each age division are $5 each or a bundle price of $25 for all six. Optional category winners in each age category will receive sashes, and the Most Photogenic and People’s Choice winners in each age division will each receive crowns and sashes. Winners will receive crowns and sashes. NO contestant will leave empty-handed, as participation crowns will also be awarded to all of our princesses and alternates. The Firecracracker Sweetheart Crown (People’s Choice Award) will be awarded in each age division to the contestant who collects the most votes, at $1 per vote. The money can be collected prior to the pageant and brought in the day of the pageant. Additional votes will be collected during the pageant, until approximately halfway through the program. The money collected for People’s Choice Awards will go to Children’s Miracle Network (CMN). To download an application and see the pageant rules, please visit www.sterlingmiss.org and click on the “HOLIDAY PAGEANT” tab and then the Little Miss Firecracker application link. For more information, visit our website or call (334) 313-5444. 81

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Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing

Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Grandma’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. However, the Hands-On Gallery and Grandma’s Attic will temporarily close for 2nd floor hallway renovations this summer. The Museum will remain closed until Monday, August 19. You can visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. Stay tuned in for upcoming events from the Archives, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with well-known artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters. Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and community-based organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@ bellsouth.net. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 457-9254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to

expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta. com. The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 349-4235 or visit www. chomonline.org.

June 2014 Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www. oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours:

Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops and Parties for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hourlong workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@ cupcakesbytish.com. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse. org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the

Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com River Region Contra Dancing Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and

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families are welcome. All levels of experience – including no experience. Dancing is on 1st & 3rd Fridays at 7 p.m. at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 5260 Vaughn Road. For more info, visit www.riverregioncontradance. com or call Katherine Thomas at 334-361-6572. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/ Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Museum galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next class is June 18. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

Classes

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education.Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class

offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. Content includes: Traffic Light Eating, Brainy Breakfasts, the Truth about Fats, Powering up with Protein and Play, and more! The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities, and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more information, contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. Baptist Medical Center East. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Math & Science for Preschoolers Classes for “3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science)” are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children ages 3-5 will learn math and science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. long and $8/week. Join us at 1585 E Main St, Prattville (next to Pri-Med), to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook for times. To register or for more info, contact Susan Trombley at 321blasttimes@ outlook.com or (334) 380-1879. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Fun, interactive 3-week series of nutrition classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; Optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; Transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more information contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or via Facebook - www.Facebook.com/ LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Provides expectant mothers information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged

to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule.

Services

American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/patients_volunteers. html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.

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Calendar/Support Groups Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Hannah Taylor at 4099477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and gettogethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore, Autauga, & Macon Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery office at 6128162 or call 1-800-ACS-2345 and you will be connected to the Montgomery office.** Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call Luella Giles at 612-8162 for more info. Man to Man is an American Cancer Society support group for men who are battling or have survived prostate cancer. It offers them education, discussion and support. Please call for next meeting dates at the American Cancer Society Office in Montgomery. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. College scholarships to cancer survivors Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through www.cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345 General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

Divorce Support

Divorce Care, Grief Share, Divorce Care for Children, All three groups meet Sundays at 5 p.m. at Heritage Baptist Church, 1849 Perry Hill Rd. Call 279-9976. Divorce Care and Divorce Care 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays starting August 22 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Divorce Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 2796677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 2842721. We will also collect Toys for Tots for anyone interested in participating. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. Grief Recovery After Suicide, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., first Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Room 3102. This group is open to family members and friends who have lost a loved one as the result of suicide. Group offers a confidential environment in which to receive support, hope and information. Contact Rev. Susan Beeson, 272-8622.

June 2014 Grief Share, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. HOM provides quality palliative care to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in our community affected by terminal illness; maintains the highest ethical standards; and educates the community about the hospice concept and end-of-life issues. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen. org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail. com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Our purpose is to glorify God as we serve Him in comforting and encouraging each other in our grief and growth.

Homeschool Support

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com PEAK of Montgomery Homeschool Group Parent Educators and Kids (PEAK) of Montgomery is an inclusive, member-led group of homeschooling families who meet regularly for field trips, park days and other social and educational activities. We welcome all local home educators who enjoy sharing and learning within a diverse community. To join us, visit us at www.peaknetwork.org/montgomery.

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. Each participant needs to bring a sack lunch. On the first Thursday of each month, the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 beginning at 10:30 a.m. For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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REGISTRATION Register at the Tugboat in Frazer Atrium or go online to frazerumc.org/vbs • Registration is free in June • Late registrations (after July 1) will be charged a $10 supply fee.

JOIN US SUNDAY EVENINGS THIS SUMMER FOR

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The table has a way of bringing families together. Enjoy summertime fun and fellowship with other families, and to learn God’s Word from a fresh perspective. Using a multi-level approach, we’ll explore the great stories of the Bible in a way that engages the attention of a child, while still challenging the teens and adults, and creates opportunities for discussion between all ages.

Frazer United Methodist Church

At the table, we eat, play, and learn. Starting at 5 p.m., bring a brown bag dinner from home (or stop by the drive-through, we won’t judge!), and enjoy fellowship time with other families around games, art projects, and other unstructured activities. Around 6 p.m. we’ll move into a Bible story experience, illustrated through video and interactive elements, along with hands-on activities, finishing up with a family discussion and prayer time. The table is for all ages. Designed for parents, guardians or grandparents with children who are 4 years old and and up. Childcare for your preschoolers available with required registration: go to frazerumc.org/table.

Theresa Reiter, Children’s Ministry Craig McKissick, Sports & Fitness Sunday worship 8, 9:30 & 11AM children’s Ministry at all hours 6000 atlanta Hwy. Montgomery frazerumc.org • 334.272.8622 85

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Calendar/Support Groups Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance, Room 3101 at Frazer UMC, 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 2728622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 2019638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChaseNE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group will begin meeting on May 12 from 6:30-7:45 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group will meet on second Mondays of each month. Meetings are open to anyone who is interested in issues concerning mental health. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for directions/details. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 3rd Tuesdays from 6:30-8 p.m. in room 3104. This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For more info, call 272-8622. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org. Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

Parent Support

Birth Stories (Past, Present, Future) This group aims to bring together women and their community to realize the shared experience of childbirth of the past, present and future. It is a great time to ask other moms about cloth diapering, breast milk or formula, exclusive pumping, making your own baby food, etc. We also have a featured discussion each month. For June, bring your baby wrap/carrier/sling. We meet the 3rd Saturday of every month unless it falls on a holiday weekend. Then the meeting is the following Saturday. We meet at 4D Baby Bumps located at 510 Cotton Gin Road in Montgomery at 4 p.m. For more information, contact Naomi Voss at (334) 4679363 or www.diamonddoulaservice.org/ D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his daughter Erin. It gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. All fathers in the River Region are invited to bring their daughters to the library to read, laugh and have fun. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more information, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (569-1500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_ heather@yahoo.com). Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@ frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http:// montgomerymultiplesclub.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, are you looking for a good excuse to get out of the house? MOPS is a great opportunity to hone your mothering skills, meet new friends, and learn new things while deepening your relationship with God. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are 1st and 3rd Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (Oct. 3 & 17) Call Kristi Gay at (334) 233-8989 or visit www.montgomeryfbc.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support

June 2014 group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information.

Single Parents Support

Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. beginning June 12. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www. montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more information, contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Teens/Families Support

Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info! “Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way. Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m. “Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen

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Calendar/Support Groups and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity! “Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children. “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating. “Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher! Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot! You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or e-mail trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

This Month Sunday, June 1

Jasmine Hill Gardens & Museum Wetumpka. Open Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays through June: noon-5 p.m. As spring progresses, tulips will enhance many of the flower beds along with seasonal annuals. African daisies, nasturtiums, neon dianthus, various pansy varieties, digitalis, ornamental cabbage, delphinium, calendula, snapdragons and larkspur will highlight the spring beds. For more info, visit www.jasminehill.org. Special Needs Skate -- Also June 15 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd.All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com. Kids Day at the Montgomery Biscuits Also June 8 & 22 Riverwalk Stadium at 5:35 p.m. Kids Play Catch on the Field & Run the Bases! For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com.

Monday, June 2

Fashion Camp Registration at The Shoppes at EastChase For girls ages 5-12 years old. At the one-day camps, little fashionistas will learn how to accessorize, model and entertain, as well as learn how to live healthy and how to develop their own personal style. Participating retailers include: Claire’s, Gap Kids, Justice for Girls, Earth Fare Organic Grocer, Dillard’s, Anthony Vince Nail Spa, Versona Accessories, Bath and Body Works and PeachMac. Registration is $75 and includes lunch, $25 gift card to The Shoppes at EastChase, a special gift and an official graduation certificate. There are several camp dates to

June 2014 choose from in June and July for ages 5-8, as well as for ages 9-12. Fashion Camp dates include: age 5-8: June 16, 17, 23 & 24 and July 14, 15, 21 & 22; age 9-12: June 18, 19, 25 & 26 and July 16, 17, 23 & 24. Online registration is available. Parents can also stop by Guest Services to register their child. For more info, contact Vickie at 279-6046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com. Young Meadows Sports Camp -- Through June 6 9 a.m.-Noon. We will have baseball, volleyball, soccer, and art clinics. Call (334) 244-1385 to register.

Tuesday, June 3

Dollar Dog Tuesday at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. $1 hot dogs! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Wednesday, June 4

Rush of Fools Concert at Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts 7 p.m. For tickets, visit http://www.rushoffools.com/tour/. Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. The Capital City Master Gardener Association provides a monthly educational series called “Lunch and Learn,” on a variety of gardening topics in a classroom setting. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided.

Thursday, June 5

ARTtalk at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Get an up-close look at artists, their work and

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Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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the creative process in this unique program, designed for area artists as well as those interested in art. Artists bring a work of art to the Museum, show it to other artists and have friendly feedback about their work. Charge is $20 for Museum or Art Guild Members, $35 for non-members. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333.

Friday, June 6

Freebie Friday at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. FREE Hot Dog & Soda for all kids 12 & under! After the game, enjoy a show with MAX Fireworks Spectacular! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com. Late Night with YMCA Goodtimes Also June 13, 20 & 27 A weekly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of five-to 12-year-olds offered at the YMCA Goodtimes Center on Bell Road. Time is 6:30-11:30 p.m. and supper is included. Cost is $15 per child and no reservations are required. Child to staff ratio is 15:1. Call 279-8878 for more info. Millbrook Community Players Present Florida Boys in Concert 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for reserved seating or $15 General Admission. For tickets, call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com. Red Door Theatre Presents Rubycat Lawson’s Roadhouse Lounge -- Through June 7 Downtown Union Springs. This stunning, foot-stomping musical tale of redemption follows the story of Matthew Porter, proprietor of the once famous blues and rock & roll juke joint—Rubycat Lawson’s Roadhouse Lounge. The Roadhouse has been deteriorating for more than a decade, and Matthew has been declining along with it. When he receives a letter from the government claiming eminent domain for a new interstate highway, Matthew reaches the depths of despair and begins to mourn the loss of a historic landmark. He transforms into the most electrifying performers of all time: Ray Charles, Little Richard, Elton John, Sam Cooke, Muddy

Waters, Jelly Roll Morton, Big Joe Turner, Lionel Richie, and Jerry Lee Lewis, and transports the audience back in time to when the Roadhouse was booming. Rated PG. Tickets may be obtained by calling (334) 738-8687 or visiting www.reddoortheatre.org.

Saturday, June 7

AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community on Saturdays this spring. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Benefit for Wounded Warriors Come watch the classic sport of roller derby as your hometown Capital City Rollin’ Rebels take on Georgia’s Muscogee Rollergirls. This event will be held at Looney’s Super Skate located at 3541 McGehee Rd. Doors open at 3 p.m.; bout starts at 4. We will have a silent auction with 100% of proceeds going toward the Wounded Warriors. Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is “Build a Riding Lawn Mower.” Come learn how to build a pint-sized riding lawn mower. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free. Canoe Trail Fun Run Spend some time with family and friends and try out

Prattville’s Autauga Creek canoe trail (at your own risk). You must provide your own equipment (canoe, kayak, paddleboard, life jackets, sunglasses, drinking water, sunblock). No glass or alcoholic beverages allowed. After dropping off your canoe at the starting point and taking your vehicle to the ending point, a bus will be waiting to shuttle you back to the starting point. The last shuttle will be at 9:45 a.m. Starts at Creek Walk behind the PPD; Ends at Co. Rd. 4 take out on Rueben Road FREE!!! Visit www.prattvilleal.gov for more info. EastChase Farmer’s Market -Saturdays through August 30 7 a.m.-noon. Shoppers will continue to find local items such as organic meats and milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads, fruit pastries birdhouses and nursery plants. For more info, call (334) 279-6046. Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Saturdays Through September 28 New location and new management. “In the grove” located on Doster Road across from Gillespie Center (332 Doster Road). 7 a.m.-noon. Featuring locally grown fruits, vegetables, plants, honey and more, with special features, music, art and lots of fun every Saturday. Call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Sunday, June 8

MPAC Presents The Happy Together Tour 7:30 p.m. Get your bell bottom pants and your favorite tie-dyed T-shirt ready...”Happy Together Tour” is coming to MPAC! Happy Together is composed of The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie, Chuck Negron formerly of Three Dog Night, Mark Farner formerly of Grand Funk Railroad, Mitch Ryder and The Detroit Wheels and Gary Lewis & The Playboys. Tickets begin at $35 and may be purchased through www.mpaconline.org or calling 481-5100.

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Calendar/Support Groups The Family Table -- Sundays Through July 20 5-7 p.m. Frazer UMC Room 8114 (Activity Center). Enjoy summertime fun and fellowship with other families, and learn God’s Word from a fresh perspective. Using a multi-level approach, we’ll explore the great stories of the Bible in a way that engages the attention of a child, while still challenging the teens and adults, and creates opportunities for discussion between all ages. Starting at 5 p.m., bring a brown bag dinner from home (or stop by the drive-through), and enjoy fellowship time with other families around games, art projects, and other unstructured activities. We may even plan some covered dish suppers a couple of nights. Around 6 p.m. we’ll move into a Bible story experience, illustrated through video and interactive elements, along with hands-on activities, finishing up with a family discussion and prayer time. Teaching will be led by Ken and Emily Roach. Designed for parents, guardians or grandparents with children who are kindergarten graduates and up. We even welcome teens! Need childcare for your preschoolers? We are currently assessing if there is enough demand to open the Frazer nursery (0-3). Contact Ken Roach at 495-6328 or ken@ frazerumc.org for details.

Tuesday, June 10

VEG OUT Montgomery 7-9 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead community. Look for a big red barn! For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail

info@eatsouth.org or visit www.facebook.com/ VegOutMontgomery.

Wednesday, June 11

CAMGA Lunch & Learn Program Central Alabama Master Gardener Association meetings are held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka. The free event begins at noon and ends at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more information call the ACES office at 567-6301.

Thursday, June 12

Capri Classics Presents Raiders of the Lost Ark 7:30 p.m. The Steven Spielberg classic featuring Harrison Ford. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org.

Friday, June 13

Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. Rick and Bubba Outdoor Expo at BirminghamJefferson Civic Center -- Through June 15 Visit www.bjcc.org or call (205) 458-8400 for tickets. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also June 27 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m.

June 2014 to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

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Saturday, June 14

Second Saturday Events Riverfront Park. Activities are held 5-9 p.m. The fun includes live entertainment, games for all ages (bocce ball and more!), food vendors and adult libations at the SandBAR at the Silos. $1 Admission, 12 and Under Free. No Outside Food, Beverage or Coolers. Visit www.funinmontgomery.com or call (334) 625-2100. Florida Georgia Line Concert with Special Guests Nelly and Chris Lane Riverwalk Stadium, 7:30 p.m. Tickets available by phone at 877-4FLY-TIX (987-6487) or visit http://www.ticketfly. com/purchase/event/574993?utm_medium=bks. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic 10 a.m. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is building Toothless from “DreamWorks How To Train Your Dragon 2” in theaters June 13. Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. Riverbend Boat Show Riverfront Park in downtown Montgomery. 10 a.m. Presented by Russell Marine.

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Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/events/1374454692792666/?so urce=1.

Tuesday, June 17

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Thursday, June 19

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “A Blessed Work in a Somber World: Selections from The Hank Williams Reader,” presented by by Steve Goodson. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Military Appreciation Day at the Montgomery Zoo 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. All military personnel and their families receive FREE admission to the Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Food, drinks and refreshments are also provided. Please provide valid military identification for entry. For more info, visit www.montgomeryzoo. com or call 240-4900. Family Faith Night at the Montgomery Biscuits with Pre-game Concert 7:05 p.m. Presented by Faith Radio with MAX Fireworks Spectacular following the game. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Clybourne Park Through June 29 Written by Bruce Norris and directed by Greg Thornton. Winner of the 2011 Pulitzer Prize and the 2012 Tony Award. Act One takes place in 1959, as nervous community leaders anxiously try to stop the sale of a home to a black family, who happen to be the Youngers, the protagonists of A RAISIN IN THE SUN. Act Two is set in the same house in the present day, as the now predominantly African-American neighborhood battles to hold its ground in the face of gentrification. **Contains adult themes and strong language. Recommended for ages 14 and above.** For more information or tickets, call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Saturday, June 21

4th Annual Little Miss Firecracker Pageant Located at Destiny Christian Center, located at 1852 Hwy. 14 E. in Prattville. The pageant, hosted by Sterling Miss Productions, is open to young girls, ages 12 month to 17 years, who live in Alabama. Applications for the pageant are due no later than Friday, June 13. Every young lady will receive a participation pageant crown and sash. Division groups Little Miss to Teen Miss will compete at 1:30 p.m. Babies to Petite Miss will compete at 4 p.m. This is a semi-natural pageant where age-appropriate attire and a “natural” look are stressed. Attire for the competition is age-appropriate patriotic wear. Suggestions for attire (but NOT limited to the following) are: sundresses, short sets, capri sets- outfits that show your contestant’s personality. The child is NOT judged on the outfit but on the presentation. No other wardrobe is required for this pageant. The registration fee is $40, plus any optional categories in which the contestant chooses to participate. Optional categories in each age division are $5 each for a bundle price of $25 for all six. To download an application and see the pageant rules, visit www.sterlingmiss.org and click on the “HOLIDAY PAGEANT” tab and then the Little Miss Firecracker application link. For more info, visit our website or call (334) 313-5444. Payments by PayPal are accepted on the pageant website’s Online Store, found on the homepage.

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Calendar/Support Groups GO Fish at the Alabama Nature Center Through June 22 Enjoy catch and release fishing for catfish and bream in the Upper pond, or bass and bream in the Bullfrog pond. A limited number of fishing poles will be available for $2 a day as well as a limited amount of bait for a small fee. For more information about the Alabama Nature Center or the Alabama Wildlife Federation, call Holly Beverley at (334) 285-4550. Gump Games -- Also June 22 Benefiting The Arts Council of Montgomery. 3rd Annual CrossFit and Jiu Jitsu Event presented by Wind Creek Hospitality and River Region Crossfit. June 21 for Individual Athletes and Jiu Jitsu at 9 a.m.; June 22 for Teams of 3 at 9 a.m. At the Multi-Plex at Cramton Bowl. UP TO $1500 CASH PRIZES!!! Spectators welcome. Visit www.thegumpgames.com for details.

Sunday, June 22

Free Admission for Fathers at Montgomery Zoo For more info, visit www.montgomeryzoo.com or call (334) 240-4900. Family Art Affairs at the Art Museum 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to the Museum for this special FREE fun day! Create a collage using photographs, watercolor crayons, markers, and more! Museum Exhibition Connection: “In Time We Shall Know Ourselves: Photographs by Raymond Smith.” For more info, visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333. Family Movie Night at Frazer 5-7 p.m. in the Atrium. Wear your PJs, bring your favorite blanket and/or lawn chair, and enjoy a free movie and snacks under the “clouds” in the Frazer Atrium. Free event. No childcare provided; all children must be accompanied by an adult. Contact Laurie Shipp at (334) 495-6335 or lshipp@frazerumc.org.

Friday, June 27

Wetumpka Depot Players Present Pinkalicious: the Musical! -- Through June 29 Local child actors from Wetumpka Depot’s “Acting Up” summer program will perform four shows at 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 4 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. For tickets, call 868-1440 or visit www.wetumpkadepot.com. Call us to book Pinkalicious birthday parties!

Saturday, June 28

Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, Cupcakes by Tish will now host Cupcake Decorating Workshops. Classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 3565292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic 10 a.m. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is building a sheep drop game. Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s.

June 2014 Friday, July 4

The Color Run Riverfront Park in downtown Montgomery. The Color Run, also known as the Happiest 5k on the Planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness and individuality. Now the single largest event series in the United States, The Color Run has exploded since our debut event. We have more than tripled our growth, hosting more than 170 events in 30+ countries in 2013. We are thrilled to be working with the American Cancer Society. For more information, visit: http:// thecolorrun.com/montgomery/2014-07-04/

Saturday, July 12

Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Pre-registration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/events to register or for more info.

Calendar information due by the 15th of each month. Please send to editor@montgomery parents.com.

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Home Based Business Directory Virtual Assistant

Social Media Management / Ghostwriter Resume Writer / Personalized Cover Letters Effective Business Letters / ANY Typing Needs Brochures / Newsletters / Researcher / Grant Writer / Multiple Database Management / Calendar Choreographer / Special Events / FUN Excursions / Field Trips P/T Child Care / Pet Care Homeschool Mom / Tutoring (Elementary & Preschool)

Wilshant Fantasy Events

ROLLER DERBY

B.E.C.T. Services

The River Region Rollergirls are currently recruiting! We need volunteers, referees, and skaters. No experience necessary. 18 and up, all sizes welcome. This is a great way to get in shape and meet new people! Contact us at RRRollergirls@gmail.com for more info and find us on Facebook.

Specializing in one of a kind events: Weddings, birthday parties, children’s character parties, baby showers, bridal showers, teas, bridesmaid luncheons, family reunions, and holiday parties. Contact Laura Collins at 334-294-9809. Email wilshant@aol.com and visit www.wilshantfantasyevents.com.

www.bect-services.com “Providing Support For Change” Providing supportive, flexible and individualized in-home and in-school counseling, behavioral and autism services. Licensed Professional Counselor National Certified Counselor Certified Anger Management Specialist Certified Autism Specialist 256-452-8504

Need It Clean? Give Us a Ring!

Capoeira Classes

Piano Teacher

TUTORING

Busy as a Bee

Afro-Brazilian Martial Art.

Email KatieGrimesRotton@Yahoo.com or call 334-467-7042.

Light and Deep Cleaning Jobs Free Quotes, Window Cleaning, Light Painting Jobs. Call Teri at 365.2727 or 320-8966.

BULLDOG CARPET CLEANING We handle all your floor cleaning needs! • Commercial/residential • Pet odor removal • Floor tile cleaning services • Licensed and insured (334) 220-4306

Need a Babysitter?

Ms. Kidd’s House Daycare “Where Kids Come to Have Fun!”

An Art, A Game, A Fight, A Culture. Visit facebook.com/ capoeiramontgomery Kevin Sidbon: 334-531-2018

Saxon Lawn Service

Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

Provides breastfeeding education and consulting, antepartum and postpartum doula services. For more information please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-531-0145.

You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing

Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com

Please call 274-0324. Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training

Call anytime for more information at 334-324-4559.

I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 9 years. Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183

“Absolute Clean” Cleaning Service

Southern Quality Lawns, LLC

Reliable, dependable, and trustworthy are the three things most needed when trusting someone in your home. We have all three of them, so just call Trenella @ 334-391-7596 for your free estimate and the absolute best cleaning job you could ask for with no worries, just a clean house. Call today!

Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome. 1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.

The Piano Man Piano tunings, repair, and restoration. Active member of the Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. Call 569-9662 or visit www.pianoman.net/al

Tutoring

Tutoring for Students in Grades K-6th

“Quality Service from the Ground Up” Serving the tri county area. Call or email us for a free estimate. Bobby, 334-657-7750. robertsqlawns@gmail.com

Mrs. Taylor (Current Teacher) 334-590-2098 hdtaylor101@charter.net

28 years teaching experience Tutoring grades 1st-8th Call Alice Gwin at (334) 215-0032 or (334) 301-7451. Email dalice.gwin@gmail.com.

Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors. Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.

Certified K-6 Teacher Reading and Math Tutoring Contact 334-456-3728 or email brittanygraves13@ hotmail.com

Montgomery Parents I June 2014

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“Home is Where the Heart Is” Cleaning Services”

Your home is one of the most important things in your life and the lives of your loved ones! Please allow me to take care of it for you. I will clean your home the same way I would my own! Please call Terri @ 334-365-2727 or 334-568-9160.

The FREE AD GUY knows that every business needs a few lucky breaks before it can become successful. That’s why he is offering more FREE ads to Home Based Businesses. In return, the FREE AD GUY would appreciate it if you would tell a friend about Montgomery Parents Magazine. If you’ll just help him spread the word about Montgomery Parents Magazine he’ll keep working for you and your business. If you have already run a FREE ad you can send a request to repeat the ad or make changes. Please understand but we will not accept any phone requests. For new Home Based Business advertisers, just send your information to: FREE AD GUY, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123, or freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com. The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.

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AdvertiserDirectory We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.

First UMC, Montgomery, 44

Montgomery Zoo, 50

First UMC, Prattville, 21

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 93

4D Mommies, 92

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 26

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 27

Adventure Sports II, 31

Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten, 35

New Park, 61

Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front

Frazer Memorial UMC, 85

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 46

Alabama Home School Expo, 65

G2 Services, 93

Once and Again, 49

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 69

Glitterbug the Clown, 39

Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 43

Arts in Motion, 90

Greengate School, 79

ASKIN/Synergy House, 94

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 18

AUM Continuing Education, 25

Hooper Academy, 49

Baptist Health, 4

Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 26

Bradford Health Services, 87

Huntington Learning Center, 23

Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 54

Johnson Martial Arts/Karate, 53

Chapman Orthodontics, 35

KLynn Ice Skating School, 14

CHARMS, Inc., 93

Katie Rotton Virtual Assistant, 93

Churchill Academy, 40

Kingry Orthodontics, 28

Clenney and Palmer, LLC, 8

Kreative Moments, 93

Dance Generation, 14

Kumon, 5

Dancewear, Etc., 94

L.E.A.N. Health in Central AL, 40

Dentistry for Children, 32

Learning Tree Child Care, 88

Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 2

Legacy Early Learning Center, 42

Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 91

Little Explorer’s Learning Center, 37

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 43

Lori Mercer Photography, 28

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 66

Macon East Academy, 45, 57

The Dollhouse Toy Store, 11

E & S Hobbies, 93

Mathnasium, 29

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Eastdale Mall, 9

Montessori @ Hampstead, 33

Tiger Park Taekwondo, 31

Easter Seals, 66

Montessori @ Mulberry, 21

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 23

Edgewood Academy, 37

Montessori Academy, 59

Trinity Presbyterian School, 3, 51

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 92

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 47

United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 29

Embellish, 55

Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center, 19

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 70

Evangel Christian Academy, 39

Montgomery Humane Society, 63

Vaughn Road Preschool, 17

Family Karate Center, 13

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 91

Vishnu Dental, 55

First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 75

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 67

Waterville USA, 19

First Baptist Church, Prattville, 89

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 32

WeeOnes Daycare and Preschool, 24

Prattville Wesleyan Preschool, 93 Professional Pediatrics, 12 Pump It Up Party, 73 Riverview Camp, 20 Saint James School, 1 Saint James UMC, Inside Back Smart Smiles, 71 Smiles Galore Parties, 90 Spacewalk of Montgomery, 34 Spacewalker, The, 93 Spotless Cleaning Services, 77 Success Unlimited Academy, 15, 41 Sylvan Learning Center, 34 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 46 The Big Green Bus, 24

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Blended

X-Men: Days of Future Past

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: BSexual Content: C+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Blended PG-13 for crude and sexual content, and language. Adam Sandler hauls out his tried and true formula for his latest Happy Madison Production Blended. He even reunites with Drew Barrymore, his co-star from The Wedding Singer and 50 First Dates. In Blended, Sandler plays Jim, a single dad with three daughters, Hillary (Bella Thorne), Lou (Alyvia Alyn Lind) and Espn (Emma Fuhrmann). Yes, number three is named after the sports channel. He buys the girls’ clothes at Dick’s Sporting Goods where he is a store manager and takes them to his barber for their haircuts. He’s trying to be the best dad he can, but there are some things he just hasn’t figured out -- like which feminine hygiene products to buy for his oldest daughter. Barrymore plays Lauren, a single mom with two boys. Her oldest, Brendan (Braxton Beckham), is a preteen with raging hormones who pins a picture of his babysitter’s head onto a centerfold from a men’s magazine and makes creepy comments about how hot his mom is. Her youngest, Jake (Zak Henri), throws tantrums on the ball diamond, runs through the house with a burning t-shirt on a pole and is completely incapable of controlling himself. When Lauren and Jim meet on a blind date at a Hooters restaurant we know where this relationship will eventually end up despite their bad beginning. But the disastrous first encounter means we have to cover a lot of ground before love blossoms between these two socially uncomfortable adults. Luckily for them -- and their children -- the opportunity to get to know each other comes in the form of a vacation in Africa at a resort hosting a weeklong event for blended families. The scheduled activities include a safari, sports, spa treatments and a couple’s massage. While the rubdown avoids the kind of sexual depictions you might expect, the rest of the film is well oiled with crude sexual comments and crass jokes. Sandler’s reputation for lowbrow humor remains intact in this production, although he stays just a step above the juvenile antics and locker room jokes in Grown Ups and Grown Ups 2. He is the hero as usual -- in this case a father trying to remain strong despite the loss of his wife and his children’s mother. But while the script is bold enough to make assertions like two parents are better than one, girls need moms, boys need dads, and being reliable as a parent is good, it isn’t gutsy enough to leave out the glut of crude jokes and make this a family film the entire family could attend.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: CSexual Content: C+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated X-Men: Days of Future Past PG-13 for sequences of intense scifi violence and action, some suggestive material, nudity and language. As the title of this latest X-Men adventure suggests, this movie is a combination of the past and future, thanks to Kitty Pryde’s (Ellen Page) ability to send mutants back in time -- or at least their consciousness. And it’s a necessary journey. The mutants have nearly been wiped out due to a robotic army of Sentinels created by Dr. Bolivar Trask (Peter Dinklage). His experimental soldiers were perfected after Trask was killed by Mystique (Jennifer Lawrence) in the 1970s. Following the murder, the blue-skinned mutant was captured and subjected to DNA experimentation that allowed the government to develop the ability to hone in on all mutants, whatever their form. Decades later, many of the mutants have been killed. And those who are not dead are being hunted down. To change the course of history, the much matured Charles, now known as Professor X (Patrick Stewart) and Erik, now known as Magneto (Ian McKellen), want to travel back in time and stop Mystique from shooting Trask. Unfortunately neither of the men can withstand the transportation. That’s where the perpetually scowling Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) steps in. (He says he’ll do it because he can continually heal himself and thus withstand the side effects of time travel. I think the filmmakers chose his character because his mutton chop sideburns help him blend into the hippie subculture of that era.) Whatever the reason he volunteers, Wolverine discovers he can’t stop Mystique on his own. He needs the help of Charles and Erik. Unfortunately at this point of their life cycle the two men aren’t on speaking terms, and Erik is in a high security prison cell 100 stories below the ground level of the Pentagon complex. To get him out, Charles and Wolverine employ the speedy skills of Quicksilver (Evan Peters). But even when Charles and Erik consent to work together, Mystique refuses to change her mind about killing Trask. That of course gives the mutants and humans free rein to slaughter one another. Like previous X-Men movies, this one packs one punch after another, along with scenes of graphic and gruesome violence. Unfortunately all this violent action also distracts from the message of the movie— which seems to be that a simple decision can change the course of history. In this case, one choice has an incredible impact 50 years later (and apparently erases every storyline we’ve seen so far). While most decisions won’t have those kind of far reaching ramifications, the script still underlines the importance of individual choices. For many parents, deciding whether or not to let their kids hang out with these XMen may be one of those choices they will want to make carefully.

What Parents need to know about Blended...

Violence: A character is shot in the face with the contents of a fire extinguisher. A character makes a comment about a man shooting himself. Characters are kicked or hit in the groin. Lions eat a baby animal off screen. A character is punched. Other depictions of slapstick and non-graphic violence are included. Sexual Content: Characters are accused of cheating on their spouses. A girl attempts to make her chest look larger by stuffing her bra. A boy tapes a picture of his babysitter’s face to a centerfold in a men’s magazine. A woman jiggles her breasts on numerous occasions. Depictions and comments about homosexuals are included. A dancer gyrates his groin suggestively. Couples kiss passionately and occasionally fondle one another. Men ogle a woman. Several men are shown grabbing their groins. A woman throws her bra at a performer on stage. A bedroom contains objects used for sexual pleasure. The script contains numerous crass sexual comments about masturbation, body parts and sex acts. Crude bodily functions are portrayed. Language: One depiction of a crude hand gesture and at least three other partial uses of a strong sexual expletive. Several other crude sexual expressions are heard, along with sexual comments, slang, and anatomical terms. Numerous terms of Deity, some mild and moderate profanities, and vulgar expressions are also used. Alcohol / Drug Use: A nervous man guzzles down a beer during a date. Characters drink with dinner and in other social settings. A woman makes reference to a male enhancement drug. A character recommends drugs for a hyperactive child. Montgomery Parents I June 2014

What Parents need to know about X-Men: Days of Future Past...

Violence: The movie includes frequent and sometimes graphic depictions of torture and killing. Characters are choked, punched, stabbed, thrown, burned, decapitated, impaled and crushed -- with some detail and blood shown. Characters also engage in hand-to-hand fighting. Explosions and extensive property damage are seen in a futuristic setting. Characters transform or use their mutant powers to fight others. Piles of dead bodies are shown. Characters use guns and other weapons to kill or disarm others. A woman holds a knife to a man’s neck. Numerous characters are killed. Sexual Content: A man is shown in bed with a woman (his bare buttocks are exposed when he climbs out of bed). A character is shown in a body exposing blue costume. Some sexual innuendo and references are included. A man invites a woman to take her clothes off. Language: The script contains a strong sexual expletive and slang word for sex, along with some scatological expletives, mild profanities and terms of Deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters smoke in both a historical and futuristic setting. A character drinks to deal with physical and emotional pain. A character injects himself with a medically developed serum. Brief references to illegal drugs are made.

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