Montgomery Parents March 2012 by KeepSharing

Regular Soda 12 fl oz can

Diet Soda 12 fl oz can

Calories: 140

Calories: 0

Sodium: 45 mg

Sodium: 40 mg

Total Carbohydrates: 39 g

Total Carbohydrate: 0 g

Sugar: 39 g

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Make a good choice.

Choose Diet or Zero-Calorie Soda Instead of Regular Soda Choose 100% Juice Instead of Sweetened Fruit Drinks Choose Water Instead of Flavored and Vitamin-Enhanced Water with Artificial Sweeteners

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Contents March 2012

Volume 17 Number 3

Features 62 Boost Your Young Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vocabulary

Get your little one ready to read with these ideas for building word skills while having fun!

66 Camp Provides More Than Fun For Kids

Summer camp not only offers a good time for your child and a break for you, it teaches kids life skills, boosts self confidence and much more!

68 2012 Summer Camp Guide

Columns 6 From One Parent to Another

From week and month long residential camps to day camps covering a variety of interests, our listing has the details you need for planning your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer.

90 Exploring Alabama Through Family Camping

Whether you choose a tent, pop-up camper or RV, Alabama boasts great state parks offering adventure, history, and relaxation for your family.

DeAnne Watson

9 Living With Children John Rosemond

On The Cover

12 Kids Health Watch

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Car Seats Made Simple! Welcome to Kids Health Watch! One of the most important things we do as pediatricians is talk about safety and preventive care, so I thought this would be a good way to start our new segment in Montgomery Parents! The best place for children under 13 is in the back seat. That’s easy enough, but which car seat can be confusing. As parents, it is our job to ensure that our children are safe, and car safety should be a top priority. You never know when an accident may occur, so let’s figure out which seat is safest for your child. An important change regarding car seats is that the American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that ALL infants and toddlers should ride in a rear facing car seat until 2 years of age. This is to protect the heads and necks of small children whose heads are very large in proportion to the rest of their body. Don’t worry about your toddler’s legs being uncomfortable. If your child’s height and weight are within the rear facing limits of your car seat, they are safer in the rear position. Small babies are probably most comfortable in infant carriers. Once your baby is too big to tote around in a carrier, the best choice is to invest in a good convertible car seat. A convertible car seat can be rear facing or converted to forward facing.

Some also convert to a booster seat for older children. Most of the convertible seats now have height and weight limits that will allow the majority of children to remain in the recommended rear facing position until they are two. If your child’s height or weight is above the safety limits of your particular car seat and they are younger than two, it is okay to turn the seat around to the forward facing position. Height and weight limits can be found on the sticker on the side of all car seats and in the instruction booklet that comes with the seat. All children over two (or those younger who have outgrown the height/ weight limits for the rear facing position) should be in a forward facing car seat with a harness for as long as possible, at least until age four. They should remain in this seat with the harness up to the highest weight or height allowed by the seat, many of which go up to 40-90 pounds! If your child outgrows his seat prior to four, it is recommended to get another seat with a harness approved for higher heights and weights. All car seats should be installed with seat belts or the LATCH system according to the manufacturer’s directions. The seats are stable when they cannot be moved more than one inch in any direction. School age children who have outgrown their forward facing seat should use

a belt positioning booster seat. Booster seats come as high-back or backless and work equally well. Boosters rest on the seat and are held in place once the seat belt is fastened over the child. They must be used with a lap and shoulder belt. The lap belt should sit low and snug across your child’s thighs and the shoulder belt should cross the middle of your child’s chest and shoulder. Most children are safe to use a seat belt alone when they are 4 feet 9 inches or taller (typically between the ages of eight and 12), providing the adult seat belt fits correctly. The shoulder belt should cross the middle of the chest and shoulder, and the lap belt sits low and snug across the upper thighs.

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 active 3 year old son.

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Never Too Early to Plan You have just brought home your bundle of joy from the hospital. Your heart is filled with love and your head is filled with thoughts of diapers and getting the youngster to sleep through the night. It is likely that the last thing on your laundry list of things to worry about (including the laundry) is how to pay for college. However, it is something you might begin thinking about as soon as your baby takes a nap. Today the average cost of a public college education is almost $75,000. Private college cost now tops a staggering $166,000 over four years. Estimates are that in just 15 years from now both of those figures will double. So how can you prepare for your child’s education and still manage to take a vacation or two and have money left for diapers? Before you take a second job delivering pizzas, there are options available for saving for college. The key is to start as early as possible. The new state CollegeCounts 529 program is one option. It allows family and friends to contribute, has an easy automatic payment plan with no minimum for contributions, and there are tax benefits as well. There is even a CollegeCounts Visa card where a “cash back” option deposits money into your child’s account with everyday purchases. The funds can be used at any college, university or trade school in America for both undergraduate and graduate work. The funds can be applied to any halftime enrollment including tuition, fees, books, supplies and room and board. There are risks with any investment plan so do your homework. You can find www.montgomeryparents.com

more information go to www.collegecounts529.com. Scholarships are a great way to pay for school, but even that requires early preparation. Academic scholarships are based on a student’s performance in school and on entrance exams. Middle school students can begin taking practice tests for the ACT and SAT exams. They can take them as many times as they wish with the highest score being the one sent to colleges. The level needed to earn a scholarship varies from school to school. As a general rule, a 26 or higher on ACT or a SAT score of 1180 or higher could put your child in the running for a scholarship. There are also thousands of scholarships available for students who are interested in specific fields of study, money for tall students, short students, and even one for students who are talented at duck calling or are masters at fishing. No kidding. There are government assistance programs like Pell Grants and federal loans, and private lending agencies that help students go to school. There are several good sources of information on funding your child’s college on the Internet including www.scholarships.com for more options. Locally, we are grateful for Emerge, a group of young business men and women – part of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, who are working with our students to help them fill out financial aid forms. It can be a daunting process and these young professionals are giving their time and talent to help our students realize their dreams. The bottom line is of course the bottom line. Whatever path you take to help your child through their postsecondary options, the key is to start early. A penny saved now can help your newborn earn a college degree. 14

Seventeen MPS Schools Recognized as Energy Stars

Sometimes it involved installing new equipment, but more often than not all it took to save Montgomery Public Schools over two million dollars in expected energy costs was the flip of a switch. As a result of their efforts, 17 MPS schools were recently awarded the coveted Energy Star designation by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. “This is wonderful,” said MPS Superintendent Barbara W. Thompson. “This is definitely a team effort with staff and students working to turn off lights and equipment not in use, system retrofits and the work our own energy education team has done to make a real difference in our bottom line.” The expected energy cost for MPS from November 2010 to December 2011 was $9.1 million dollars. The actual cost was $7.1 million. The savings in energy is the equivalent of a reduction of 10,497 metric tons of CO2. The schools honored by the Environmental Protection Agency were: • Brewbaker Technology High with a 26 percent reduction in energy savings. • Blount Elementary with a 28 percent reduction in energy savings. • Bear Exploration Center with a 14 percent reduction in energy savings. • Booker T. Washington High with a 21 percent reduction in energy savings. • Flowers Elementary with a 22 percent reduction in energy savings. • Forest Avenue Elementary with a 16 percent reduction in energy savings. • Garrett Elementary with a 28 percent reduction in energy savings. • Halcyon Elementary with a 21 percent reduction in energy savings. • Highland Avenue Elementary with a 22 percent reduction in energy savings. • Highland Gardens Elementary with a 13 percent reduction in energy savings. • Johnson Elementary with a 21 percent reduction in energy savings. • Lanier High School with a 38 percent reduction in energy savings. • Lee High with a 24 percent reduction in energy savings. • Loveless Academic Magnet High with a 14 percent reduction in energy savings. • Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary with a 6 percent reduction in energy savings. • Morningview Elementary with a 15 percent reduction in energy savings. • Morris Elementary with a 23 percent reduction in energy savings. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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At Trinity, we believe every student should have access to quality Apple laptops. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Trinity is the first school in the River Region to implement a grade-wide laptop initiative. Combined with SmartBoards in every classroom and wireless internet school wide, our students are taking a bite out of the future every day.

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Nondiscriminatory statement as to students: Trinity admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Trinity does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origins in any of the educational policies, scholarship programs and athletics, and other school-administered programs.

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Trinity Eighth Grade Visits Washington, D.C.

“Woody” You Be Mine?

Students at Auburn Montgomery’s Early Childhood Center celebrated Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14. Housed within the AUM School of Education, the center is open to all children ages 3-5 and strives to help them develop a passion for life and concern for others. (Photo by Frank C. Williams)

Flowers Raises Funds For Animal Charity

Flowers Elementary students are partnering with a unique group to raise funds to help man’s best friend. Students have begun raising money to support a pet food bank in association with “That Animal Group,” a non-profit organization that helps qualifying pet owners keep pets in their homes and out of shelters by providing pet food. Students and the community were also asked to donate spare change to help with this effort. Here, students pose with their favorite dog Sonny, who is part of the Montgomery Humane Society’s Read to the Paws Program. Students at Flowers read to Sonny each Friday in an effort to reinforce their reading skills. He and his owner Mary Wilson, left, are supporting the Flowers pet food bank project. www.montgomeryparents.com

Trinity Presbyterian School eighth-grader Chapman Dean recently returned from the annual Washington, D.C. trip taken by the eighth-grade class at Trinity School. He learned “that one president held boxing matches in the White House.” Dean, as well as many others, especially enjoyed the basketball game between Georgetown and UConn at the Verizon Center on Wednesday evening. Many sites were visited during the school’s annual trip, including Arlington Cemetery, the WWII Memorial, the United States Naval Academy, the Pentagon, the National Cathedral, Mt. Vernon, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Smithsonian Museums, and the White House, just to name a few. Bray Jones and Emma Heaton said they were both moved by their visit to the Holocaust Museum. They “learned how awful the Holocaust was and how many innocent people died.” Trinity’s eighth grade visited Washington, D.C. the week of January 30-February 4. Parents and friends of the group were able to follow the trip in real-time on Twitter by following @TPSDC, which proved to be a big hit with the parents and students. The eighth-graders were welcomed on the Capitol steps by U.S. Sen. (R-Ala.) Jeff Sessions and also by Trinity Presbyterian School graduate and U.S. Rep. (R-Ala.) Martha Roby. Trinity School graduate, U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, and the Eighth Grade Class of Trinity Presbyterian School

Forest Avenue Readers Rewarded with Party

The third- through fifth-grade students at Forest Avenue Academic Magnet Elementary who made their second quarter Accelerated Reader point goal while maintaining a 90 percent correct average earned the privilege to wear exercise clothes on January 24 and come to the “Warming Up to Reading” dance party led by Tonya Speed. Forest Avenue students quizzed on 28,453 books the first semester with a 93 percent accuracy.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Catholic’s Norris Named National Merit Finalist

Hooper Cheerleaders Travel to London

Hooper Academy students Kristen Ellis and Ivy Watts were selected as 2011 UCA All-American cheerleaders at the camp they attended in July at Huntingdon College. In December, they traveled together to London, England, to perform in the London New Year’s Day Parade. In addition to performing in the parade, they toured the sites of London during their seven-day trip.

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Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Kevin Norris has been named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. Norris is one of more than 15,000 scholastically talented high school seniors to have an opportunity to continue in the competition for thousands of Merit Scholarship awards, worth millions of dollars. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, students must fulfill several requirements and about one-half of the Finalists are selected as Merit Scholarship winners, earning the Merit Scholar title. As a Finalist, Norris has maintained outstanding academic records throughout his high school years, has been endorsed and recommended by his school principal, and has earned SAT scores that confirm his qualifying test performance. Norris also had to submit a detailed scholarship application, including a self-descriptive essay and information regarding his participation and leadership in both school and community activities. He is an active student at Montgomery Catholic where he serves as the senior class president, a member of the varsity football team, and a member of the varsity baseball team. After graduation, he will attend the United States Naval Academy. Norris is the son of Larry and Stacey Norris of Montgomery.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Success Unlimited Supports Cure for Breast Cancer

The Student Government Association at Success Unlimited Academy sponsored several activities during the month of October for breast cancer awareness. SGA President Lauren Flournoy and SGA Advisor Janice Nunnelly attended a breakfast for Making Strides Montgomery. Flournoy presented the idea to the student body after returning to school that morning, and students were asked to sign up and participate in the Making Strides Breast Cancer Walk at Huntingdon College. Activities were planned to help raise money for the event. A school night was held at the Chick-Fil-A at EastChase and money from that event went toward the breast cancer fund. The Chick-Fil-A mascot, Betsy the Cow, visited the school to promote the event. The SGA also sponsored a dress-down day where students could pay to come to school out of uniform. The biggest contributors to the fund were the 7th- and 8th-grade classes. SUA raised more than $2,000 for breast cancer awareness and had approximately 25 students, faculty and parents participate in the Making Strides Montgomery Breast Cancer Walk. This is just one of the many community service projects the school encourages students to participate in throughout the year.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

BrewTech Alum Offers Tips to Current Students

Former Brewbaker Technology Magnet student Nicholas Drollette is giving back to his academy by speaking to Graphic Design Academy students about the steps needed to prepare photos for a show. While at BrewTech, Drollette excelled as one of the best design students. He also went on to win first place in the Alabama SkillsUSA Advertising Design Competition. He now owns his own company and has done work for clients across the U.S. from Atlanta to New York, and abroad in Haiti and Cuba. Here, Drollette talks to Alysheia Gray, senior graphics student, about aperture.

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Borrelli, Pinkston Win Redland Mental Math

On January 26, sixth-graders Angela Borrelli and Emily Pinkston became the top two winners of the second annual Redland Elementary School Mental Math Challenge. Two representatives were chosen from each fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade classroom to compete against each other in complex math equations including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Principal Dan Aude was the caller as the contestants performed in front of their classmates and parents. The rounds became increasingly complicated and fast-paced until there were only two contestants remaining. Borrelli, a student in Ken Burdett’s homeroom, was the top winner, and Pinkston, from Shannon Morgan’s homeroom, was the second-place winner. From left are Pinkston and Borrelli with Principal Aude following the presentation of trophies.

Kindergarten Buddies Program Thrives at STJ

The 15-year-old Kindergarten Buddy program at Saint James School pairs high school seniors with kindergartners, to provide fun experiences and insights for each of the students. The pairing has historically produced long-time friends, as the buddies keep in touch long after they’ve graduated from high school. Here, K5 student Katie Brightwell (with her doll who’s also dressed for school) and her senior buddy Carlyn Watson pose before the STJ Open House on Jan. 22.

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Academy Basketball Participates in Benefit

On January 13, The Montgomery Academy athletic department continued a five-year tradition of supporting an inspiring cause, “Coaches vs. Cancer.” Coaches vs. Cancer is a night of benefit basketball with all proceeds supporting the American Cancer Society. The nationwide fundraiser started at the college level in 1993 and has since made its way to the high school basketball court, with the Academy proudly being the first high school in the River Region to participate. The event started at MA in 2008 with Coach Anthony McCall. In recent years, the game has been played against MA’s rival Trinity and proceeds have totaled more than $18,000. “I think cancer strikes a chord with everybody because it affects a neighbor, a church member, a family member,” said McCall. “It affects everybody. It’s an opportunity for me to do something I love and a chance to try to do something with this disease.”

Two ACA Seniors Sign with Faulkner

Two Alabama Christian Academy seniors, Danny Madison (above with his parents) and Amanda Seales (below with her family), signed scholarships with Faulkner University recently. Madison, who was selected as All-Metro Defensive Back in 2011 by Montgomery Advertiser, signed for football, and Seales signed to play softball.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Wetumpka Junior Receives National FFA Grant

SUA Elementary Students Learn from Assistants

During the first semester at Success Unlimited Academy, high school students are placed in elementary classrooms to work as elementary assistants. They are asked to work one-on-one with the younger students in various subjects, and they are also asked to act as mentors to these students. Elementary teacher Sharion Vandervort is seen here with her assistants, Ray Han and Tyler James. “I really enjoyed having Ray and Tyler helping in the classroom this semester. My students were engaged and kept on track by their helpful attitude and willingness to contribute to my classroom.”

Trinity’s Sluis Wins County Spelling Bee

Trinity Presbyterian School seventh-grader T.A. Sluis won the 2012 Montgomery County Spelling Bee held at Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church February 6. His winning word was “readjourn.” Sluis will go on to compete in the statewide spelling bee in Birmingham March 10. The winner of the state competition will go to Washington for the ScrippsHoward National Spelling Bee in June. www.montgomeryparents.com

William Norris, a junior at Wetumpka High School, has been selected to receive a National Future Farmers of America Organization Career Pathways grant known as the supervised agricultural experience (SAE) grant. Norris, a member of the WHS FFA chapter, was selected from more than 400 nationwide grant applications. He is one of two students from Alabama to receive the grant. With the $1,000 grant, Norris plans to improve his Japanese maple business by further developing his nursery and installing an irrigation system. Over the past three years, he has grafted and raised a variety of Japanese maple species to industry standards. Norris holds the office of vice president of the WHS FFA chapter and plans to run for a district/state FFA office in the spring. “William works tirelessly on any FFA activity,” said WHS FFA teacher Joe Brown. “He has sold ads for our golf tournament and was high salesman in our citrus/turkey sale and strawberry sale. William constantly volunteers to help with any activity in which our chapter is involved. He is a very deserving student with much potential for success. He will be an asset to whatever college he attends and will be a good agriscience teacher upon completion of his college experience.” Norris stated he plans to increase the size of his maple business by 250 trees in the spring of 2013 and 450 by the spring of 2015 and his long-range plan is to become an agriculture teacher and maintain his Japanese maple business. From left, William Norris receives his grant from FFA teacher Joe Brown.

Catholic Senior Earns Eagle Scout Honor

An Eagle Scout Court of Honor was held for Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School senior Tyler Parrish on January 21 at the St. Bede Family Life Center in Montgomery. Parrish began his scouting career with St. Bede Pack 4 as a Webelos Scout in 2003, earned his Arrow of Light award in March 2005, and then crossed into the Bison Patrol of Troop 4. Parrish attended summer camp with the troop for six years, amassed 71 nights of camping, and hiked with the troop over 96 miles. Over the years, Parrish has held key positions in the troop, including quartermaster, librarian, scribe, patrol leader, and OA troop representative. Parrish achieved the rank of Life on March 24, 2008. He served on staff for the Golden Eagle Junior Leadership Training Conference (JLTC) Troop 5 for one term and held the position of troop guide. His loyalty to scouting and the troop earned him an Ordeal nomination in 2009 to the Order of the Arrow, and he is currently a Brotherhood member in the Order. Parrish’s Eagle leadership project included the design and construction of three picnic tables at St. Bede Church to provide seating for parents, families, and others using the St. Bede soccer fields. Parrish completed 36 merit badges and received the World Conservation Award on June 22, 2009. He attained the rank of Eagle Scout on October 5, 2011. Parrish has been accepted to Auburn University for the Fall 2012 semester and is planning to major in wildlife ecology and management. Parrish is congratulated by Scoutmaster Brian Petters, who is also a Montgomery Catholic parent, at his Court of Honor ceremony. (photo by Donna Kerstis) 22

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

MPS Names 2012 Teacher Of the Year Winners

Vaughn Road Elementary teacher Clark Waggoner and Jeff Davis High School teacher Quebe Bradford have been named Montgomery Public Schools’ Teachers of the Year. The two will go on to represent the district in the 2012 Alabama Teacher of the Year Program. Waggoner and Bradford competed with elementary and secondary teachers across the district, which is made up of more than 2,000 classroom teachers. They will now compete at the state level where the Alabama Teacher of the Year and an alternate will be selected this spring. “It takes a special person to be a good teacher and I believe we have a number of talented teachers in our district,” said MPS Superintendent Barbara Thompson. “Mr. Waggoner and Ms. Bradford have demonstrated a unique capacity to bring out the best in their students. They excel at motivating and inspiring students even when barriers to achievement exist. They are committed to professional development because they want to be their best for students, and serve as a model for their peers. I couldn’t be happier for our nominees. I know they will represent us well.” Waggoner, left, is a special education teacher who has been teaching for more than 24 years ─ 14 of which have been at Vaughn Road Elementary. Twice named Vaughn Road Teacher of the Year, he has built a solid reputation for building the dignity and functional skills of special education students. His teaching philosophy is based on the belief that a good teacher cannot use limited facilities or resources as an excuse to do less than his or her best. Bradford, right, has been teaching ninth-grade English/Language Arts for more than six years ─ two of which have been spent at Jeff Davis. She believes successful teachers must connect with students both inside and outside the classroom by being visible at student events and support student activities in the community. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in administration of curriculum and instruction at Auburn University and has recently published the teen fiction novel In the Absence of My Father, which was included on the Montgomery City-County Library’s 2011 list of holiday must-reads. Each year, the Alabama Teacher of the Year Program seeks to recognize excellence in the teaching profession by identifying outstanding Alabama classroom teachers at the local, district and state levels. The Alabama Teacher of the Year serves as an ambassador for the teaching profession and education in general, speaking to various groups to raise public awareness of educational achievements, issues and needs. If either is selected as the Alabama Teacher of the Year, he or she will serve as a full-time ambassador for the teaching profession for one year and will travel around the state promoting education. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” Philippians 4:13

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Three Rivers Academy Artists Display Work

A Great Start Students Learn Dental Hygiene

Students at A Great Start Learning Academy learned the importance of keeping their teeth clean during Dental Health Month. The children learned the correct way to brush and floss and ways to keep teeth strong and healthy. Each child went home with a new toothbrush and floss to show their parents and siblings!

The artwork of nine students from Three Rivers Academy has been on display at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts as part of the “Folk Art Family Day.” The students, in grades five through ten, are William Osborne, Caleb Cobb, Se-Young Kim, Madison Pritchett, Taylor Pemberton, Kasey Edwards, Landon Archer, Austin Alexander and Susannah Olm. All of the art was made of recycled materials or “earth” paintings. Maria Freedman is their teacher.

Victory Baptist Participates in Heart Disease Awareness

Students at Victory Baptist School have a theme day each week. One recent theme was red shirt day in observance of the national awareness heart disease campaign for February. Other upcoming weeks’ themes will include homemade hat day, casual day with a candy shirt theme (a personal favorite of the students), and Dr. Seuss Day. The faculty and staff always enjoy seeing the creative ways the children express the various themes.

EASTER

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A R R I VA L S

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

where i will grow Eastwood Student Wins Photography Contest

Eastwood Christian School seventhgrader Caris Button won first place in the Outdoor Alabama 2012 photography contest. Her photograph, “Grasshopper on Yellow Flowers,” placed first in the Youth 6-12 division. The winning photographs were published in the February edition of Outdoor Alabama, and one first-place photo made the cover. Winning photographs were also posted to the Outdoor Alabama website at www.outdooralabama. com in February. The contest is conducted every year through the Alabama Department of Natural Resources. Button took the photograph as part of her arthropod collection for life science. For more information on the contest, and to see Button’s winning shot, visit the website or pick up the February edition.

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English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

Wares Ferry Students Create Mini Volcanoes

Students at Wares Ferry Road Elementary complemented a reading unit on volcanoes by creating their own mini volcanoes in class. The name “volcano” has its origin from the name of Vulcan, a god of fire in Roman mythology. Students learned that a volcano is a landform (usually a mountain) where molten rock erupts through the surface of the planet. The students tried to recreate what happens during a volcano by placing liquids under pressure. Here, student D’Anfrenee Bonner delights his classmates after making his volcano erupt. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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ACA Senior Named ‘Comeback Player’

Alabama Christian Academy senior Will Clemmons was awarded the first High School Comeback Player of the Year Award sponsored by the Andrews Institute at the Montgomery Quarterback Club Banquet. The award was initiated by world-renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews, to honor young men who persevere through rehabilitation to recover from serious football injuries. The banquet was held February 7 at the Montgomery Country Club. Florida State head football coach Jimbo Fisher was the featured speaker. From left are Perry Hooper, Jr. (board member), Ben McNeill (president of Montgomery Quarterback Club), Will Clemmons, David Bowen (board member) and Jay Robertson (board member).

Lighthouse Principal ‘Arrested’ for Charity

Principal Gary Mohney of Lighthouse Christian Academy got “arrested” recently to help raise money for muscular dystrophy. The student body enjoyed getting in on the act. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Montgomery Academy Track Teams Compete The Montgomery Academy’s men’s and women’s indoor track teams competed in the 1A-4A State Championship in Birmingham with sophomore Taylor Gerard earning United States Second Team honors for her performance in the 1600M run and the 3200M run, and junior Drake McGowin winning the state championship for pole vault. Gerard took second place in four events: 800M run (2:23.95), 1600M run (5:16.56), 3200M (11:40.13) and the 4x800M relay. McGowin won the pole vault state championship with vault of 9-00.0. Also scoring for the Lady Eagles in pole vault was senior Audrey Wioka, who captured second place in the event clearing 9-00.0. Freshman Emily Pierce, seventh-grader Maggie Chambers, and junior Krisie Stakely joined Gerard in winning second place in the 4x800M relay (10:19.60) and senior Bentley Hudson, senior Erin Katz and sophomore Mazie Chambers joined McGowin in earning third place in the 4x400M relay (4.31:99). Points also were scored by Hudson, Katz, Wioka and McGowin in the 4x200M relay. Katz also scored points in the 400M dash. The women’s team took third place competing against 17 1A-4A teams and missed the runner-up trophy by only two points.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Left, the Lady Eagles 4x800M relay team set a school record while also taking second place at the State of Alabama 1A-4A Indoor Track Championship in Birmingham. Accepting their second place medals are, from left, junior Krisie Stakely, freshman Emily Pierce, sophomore Taylor Gerard and seventh-grader Maggie Chambers. In the Men’s competitions, sophomore Jesse Austin, right, earned

two third-place finishes in the high jump (5-06.00) and in the pole vault (11-06.00). Junior Drew Patterson (Triple Jump) and sophomore Justin Woolfolk (60M dash and 40M dash) also earned points for the Eagles. Below, Montgomery Academy’s 4x400 relay team accepting their

bronze medals: front row, senior Bentley Hudson and sophomore Mazie Chambers; and back row, junior Drake McGowin and senior Erin Katz.

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Macon-East Raises ‘Pennies for Puppies’

Once again, the Macon-East Montgomery Academy Key Club Ambassadors united to make a difference in their community with the annual Pennies for Puppies Campaign. Each year the elementary students collect pennies to see which class can collect the most money for the Bullock County Humane Shelter. “We were excited to get the final contribution numbers in,” said Katherine Ann Mitchell, president and founder of the organization, “and beating last year’s total by such a large margin was truly a testament to the dedication the students at Macon-East have for our local humane shelter. It is always a lot of fun telling the kids how much they collected. They especially like to know how many pennies were collected school wide. This year there were over 10,000 pennies collected.” Mitchell also had a local veterinary hospital, Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital, match the funds collected. Cecilia Moorer, director of the Bullock County Humane Shelter, said she was pleased with the contribution. “There are some months that I have no idea how we will keep the shelter open, but God always provides a way,” Moorer said. “I was excited when Katherine Ann called to tell me the students were doing the fundraiser but I never imagined they would contribute $800 to our needs.” With the funds, the shelter will be able to purchase durable dog bedding and continue providing immunizations, grooming supplies, and chew toys for the animals that come into their care. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

STJ Announces Innovative Pre-College Electives

Saint James School has unveiled new, innovative high school electives to give students an edge as they prepare for college. Designed after extensive research, and in partnership with Alabama’s leading institutions of higher learning, the courses offer an introductory curriculum patterned after classes students will encounter at a university within a designated major area of study. Saint James School is the only high school in Alabama offering such extensive electives as an introduction to college majors. “During the past year, we’ve been researching and designing these new elective courses for our students,” said Head of School Melba Richardson. “The idea driving this innovation really began with thinking about how we could introduce students to possible college majors before they actually get to college.” One of the courses, Robotics and Pre-Engineering, was developed after the first-ever Saint James Robotics Team designed and built its own robot for competition last fall. “Just being on the school Robotics Team last fall taught me that getting to work with other students and actually build a robot makes a big difference in how much you learn,” sophomore Duncan Blackwell said. ”I think the Pre-Engineering elective will give me a leg-up on other students entering college, because I’ll have more experience.” Including the Robotics and Pre-Engineering class, sudents will be offered 13 new elective courses, including: Survey of Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy and Related Professions; Music Technology (intended for students interested in a music industry major); Graphic Design; AP Studio 2-D Design; Visual Story-Telling; The United States in Global Affairs; 21st Century Technology; Networking (CompTia A+ Certification Prep); Environmental Science (introducing students to the realm of science dealing with the ecosystem and environmental problems); and Introduction to Business, Marketing and Finance. “Our department heads have played a critical role in helping us research and design these courses,” Richardson said. “We are also partnering with The University of Alabama and Auburn University, as well as Troy and other colleges and universities, and will continue to do so as we proceed with our curricular design.” From left, Grayson Rutherford, Elliott Burrow and Duncan Blackwell participated on the STJ Robotics Team, which competed at Auburn University last fall.

Holy Cross Show Choir Performs for St. John’s

The Holy Cross Episcopal School Show Choir performed a special Valentine’s Day performance on February 13. The students were invited to perform for the Episcopal Church Women’s luncheon at St. John’s Episcopal Church. The students opened the meeting with their amazing praise songs and choreography. The students sang “Mighty to Save” medley, “With All My Heart” and “Ride the Sweet Chariot.” Soloists included Rhys Holifield, Bradley Westhauser, Karli Day and Maggie Cooner. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Prattville Jr. High Principal Runs for Superintendent

Prattville Jr. High Principal Spence Agee has qualified as a candidate for Superintendent of Education in Autauga County. Born and raised in the small community of Thomasville, Agee is a thirdgeneration educator, whose grandfather was the Superintendent of Education for the Thomasville School District. He has an Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and is currently in his tenth year as principal of Prattville Jr. High, the largest junior high school in the state of Alabama. During his tenure, all audits of the school have been clear and each year the General Fund is left with a surplus. Agee’s first priority is to manage Autauga County School resources by operating a fiscally responsible budget and developing a strong financial base for the school system. Principal Agee has 24 years of experience in the military. He is currently a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserves. He has served in Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. During his military career, Agee has attended various Officer Development Courses which served to cultivate and enhance his leadership and management skills. Agee has the ability to motivate and manage people and large organizations with numerous projects going on at one time. His early experience as a classroom teacher enables him to fully understand the academic curriculum and what it takes for high achievement, especially as it relates to success on Standardized Testing Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison. For additional information regarding Agee’s accomplishments and plans for the future, please visit http://www.spenceagee.com. www.montgomeryparents.com

Lee ROTC Cadets Visit Veterans

BrewTech Senior Signs UAB Soccer Scholarship

Alan Harwell, a senior midfielder at Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School, signed a soccer scholarship to play for the UAB Blazers. Harwell is considered one of the state’s most prolific scorers with 103 goals in three varsity seasons, ranking sixth in Alabama high school history. He needs 51 goals to claim the state record and 41 to become the tri-county’s leading scorer. Harwell is coached by Michael Baugh.

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The cadets of the Air Force Junior Officers Training Corps (AFJROTC) program at Robert E. Lee High School paid a visit to the veterans at the Central Alabama Veterans’ Health Care System for Valentine’s Day. The cadets visited various wards and distributed candy and cards to the patients. Front row from left are: Kristina Ingram, Kyeonna Burton, Demetris MarshPatterson, Demon Davis and Jasmine Johns; and back row: Anthony Bowen, Whitney Walker, Leonard Lancaster, Kiandris McCall, Jedarious Sanders, Kienna Carr, Quinton Campbell, Charniece Wright and Natasha Hodo.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Cornerstone Class Reports on Judges

The third-grade class at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, under the guidance of teacher Peggy Chestnut, recently presented reports on various judges from the Bible. The students read the biblical accounts of their assigned judge, researched and studied their lives, and wrote reports detailing their judgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey and how the lessons they learned can be applied to our lives today. On the day of their presentations to classmates and parents, students not only talked about what they learned, but some dressed in period costumes, and others showed tri-fold boards that they created to accompany their reports.

ECA Student Receives Drama Award

Evangel Christian Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drama class, under the instruction of Roy Mercer, recently participated in the AISA Drama Competition. The event was hosted at Faulkner University. ECA junior Meagan Oliver participated in the Monologue Division and received outstanding reviews. She was then chosen to be part of the AISA All-State Drama Competition. This designation is awarded to a select group of students who excel in the area of theatrical performance.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Covenant K4 Class Makes Pop-Up Cards

The four-year-old class at Covenant Kids Child Development Center recently made pop-up Valentine cards for members of Covenant Presbyterian Church. Shown are some of the members of the class with their cards. Their teacher, Ms. Jeanette, helped the children use stickers and hearts to decorate the cards which were then delivered to the shut-ins as a Valentine treat. Covenant Kids is a ministry of Covenant Presbyterian Church and is located at 9 Arden Road just behind Capitol Heights Junior High. For more information about the center which enrolls students from six weeks to four years old, please contact Director Kathy Hegwood at 356-9110.

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Montgomery Catholic Spotlights Elementary Cheer Program

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School recently honored its elementary cheerleading program during a special half-time show at the last varsity basketball games of the season. The 32 cheerleaders from kindergarten through sixth grade got the Knight fans on their feet with cheers and a dance routine. The elementary cheerleaders are on the sidelines each Saturday morning cheering on their classmates during the St. Bede basketball games held at the Family Life Center at St. Bede Catholic Church. Montgomery Catholicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cheer program is led by Kelley Klinger, Michele Klein and Lisa Kerr and will continue this fall for the Pee Wee and Termite football leagues. Elementary cheerleader Audrey Trant is shown getting the crowd fired up during a varsity half-time show.

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Heritage Preschool Helps E-Race Hunger

Each week in January, Heritage Child Development Center encouraged children and parents alike to bring items to donate to the Forest Park Ministry Center to help stock its pantry shelves. Matthew 25:35-40 tells us that Jesus is pleased when we take care of peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs as a way to show them His love. A new twist to the 2012 E-Race Hunger event was that the children also delivered cabbage, cilantro and carrots grown in the Heritage CDC Learning Garden as part of its pantry donations. Shown, the K5 DandyLions class getting ready to visit the Forest Park Ministry Center to help stock the pantry shelves.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Montgomery Academy Athletes Score 1,000 Points on the Court

Two Montgomery Academy seniors on the varsity girls’ basketball team were honored this year for a major accomplishment. Layne Doctson and Miah Brooks both reached the 1,000-point mark in their Academy basketball careers. Doctson, shown below right with her parents, surpassed this milestone in the final game of last year’s season and was honored at MA’s first home game this year. Brooks, shown below left with her parents and coaches, reached 1,000 points this year during a victory against St. Jude and was honored at a home game against Catholic on January 3. Brooks is a power forward and Doctson is a shooting guard and both moved up to the varsity team at the end of their eighthgrade year. Brooks and Doctson have been named to multiple All-Tournament teams throughout their careers that include CCC All-Tournament, Scholars 4 AllTournament, Area All-Tournament, and Regional All-Tournament. Brooks has been selected for first team All-Metro for the past two seasons and was also selected for second team All-State as a junior. Doctson, who plans to play volleyball in college, has been selected second team All-Metro for the past two seasons. “The two are very good friends off the court. In my opinion, their chemistry off court has been a big reason for their success on the court,” said Coach Glenn Sylvest.

ECA Students Place at District Spelling Bee Several students at Evangel Christian Academy recently participated in the Alabama Independent School Association district spelling bee. Three of the students received awards for placing at the district level. In the Upper Elementary division, Briauna Thompson was awarded second place and Chloe Britt placed third. In the Junior High division, Spencer Grady placed second. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Holy Cross 5th-Graders Win Poster Contest

Edgewood Students Win Science Fair Honors

Fifth-, seventh- and ninth-grade students from Edgewood Academy recently participated in the science fair. Biological science winners in the fifth grade were: first place, “Does Fertilizer Really Help Plants Grow?” Kenzie Johnston; and second, “Who Has a Dirty Mouth?” Avery Roberts. Physical science winners in the fifth grade were: first place, “Air Ball,” Tyler Abernathy; second place, “Electrical Bugs,” Hunter Wesson; and third place, “Aluminum vs. Composite,” Turner Payton. Seventh-grade biological winners were: first place, “Funky Mouth,” Conner Hughes; second place, “Will It Grow?” Carson Christian; and third, “Plant Germination,” T.J. Thomas. Seventh-grade physical science winners were: first place, “What Is the Fastest Way to Turn Chocolate White?” Caity Jo Lee; second, “IronIt Does the Body Good,” Avery Johnston; and third, “Is Your Soil Sweet or Sour?” Amber Pippin. Ninth-grade biological science winner was: first place, “Face the Facts,” Paige Wooldridge. Ninth-grade physical science winners were: first place, “Got Your C,” Morgan Angelette; second place, “Insulation Station,” Mady Weldon; and third, “It’s a Hit,” Savanna Sullivan. The fifth-grade winners are shown.

Nancy Stankard’s fifth-grade American history class at Holy Cross Episcopal School was given the opportunity to enter a poster contest sponsored by the Sons of the American Revolution. Four students (Tate Holifield, Bradley Westhauser, Benjamin Wilke and Jacob Holston) chose to create posters about “The Battle of Guilford’s Courthouse.” Of these four young men who entered the contest, three of them won! Bradley Westhauser’s first-place poster was sent to Huntsville for the state-wide competition. If the poster wins there, it will be sent to Phoenix, Arizona, for the national competition. Second place was won by Jacob Holston, while third place was won by Tate Holifield. All four young men were congratulated by Kenneth Mahan and Col. Tom Smith of the Sons of the American Revolution. The winners also received cash prizes! From left are Kenneth Mahan, Benjamin Wilke, Tate Holi-field, Jacob Holston, Bradley Westhauser and Col. Tom Smith.

Eastwood Christian Names 2012 Duke TIP Scholars The following fourth- and fifth-grade students from Eastwood Christian School are eligible for Duke University’s Talent Identification Program: Ivy Bopp, Addelae Boyd, Asa Button, Elizabeth Claxton, Amy Collins, Rebecca Copeland, Elizabeth Cowden, Harrison Estes, Elle Foxx, Colton Fuller, Kyle Fuller, Emma Gandy, Aubrey Grace, Emily Gwin, Helen Ann Herndon, Sara Beth Hill, McKenzie Higginbotham, Millie Hodge, Adelaide Howard, Morgan Illman, Celeste Keil, Gracie Kocher, Thomas Ladner, Zada Lee, Abigail Leuthold, Ashlyn Lovelady, Katherine Medlin, James Edward Newsome, Amy Parker, Michael Parker, Lindsey Pinkham, Hayden Pritchett, Claire Segura, Clara Slawson, Anna Watson, Mark White and Pierce Williams. This program is an opportunity for gifted students, who score in the 95th percentile or above on a nationally normed or state criterion-referenced test, to receive special motivation and support. Students who participate have the opportunity to compete for national recognition of their achievements.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Cornerstone Students Celebrate History Day

Success Unlimited Class Creates Bird Feeders

The resource class at Success Unlimited Academy has been studying birds in science, so the students decided to do a project involving them. They created bird feeders using pine cones, peanut butter, birdseed and eggshells. First, they spread peanut butter on the pine cones, and then rolled them in bird seed and eggshells. “They did not look appetizing to me, but we know the birds will enjoy them,” said Shelby Bullen.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy students in the sixth through twelfth grades recently participated in the school’s annual History Day. Each year, the older Cornerstone students select a particular history topic to research and present to their fellow students and a panel of judges. This year, the juniors and seniors each researched a particular philosopher and traced their philosophical thought throughout history. The students also had to refute the philosopher’s perspective using a Christian worldview. The students presented their findings by creating their own Power Point presentations. Students in the ninth grade researched Paul’s missionary journeys and gave an in-depth analysis on the words of Jesus to the seven churches in the book of Revelation. The students each created a handout to accompany their presentation. The school’s eighth-graders also created a Power Point presentation on one of the early church fathers. Finally, students in the sixth and seventh grades created a tri-fold board display that depicted an inventor, his or her invention, and the impact of the invention on the modern world. The research required by the students included several printed resources, Internet articles and primary sources. “Our history day is a valuable experience for our students,” commented Principal Priscilla Stewart. “The level of research and documentation that is required prepares them well for college-level research. It is always enjoyable to see how the students present their material. Students who grow up doing this level of academic research will be successful in future endeavors.” Junior Megan Adams is shown participating in Cornerstone’s History Day

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ECA Students Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Academy Students Display Artwork

Montgomery Academy students Lainey Williams, Roma Pirnie, Sarah Barnes, Corrie Tankersley, April Shambo, Joshua Thomas, Miah Brooks, Justine Reighard, Gibbs Lee, Savannah Bullard, Addison Tambling and Kaylee Quinn all had artwork chosen to be on display at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts as part of the Fabulous Folk Art exhibit. The exhibit began January 22 and will be displayed through March 4.

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Evangel Christian Academy’s K-4 and K-5 kindergarten classes celebrated Valentine’s Day with a special tea party. The students had participated in “Manners of the Heart” which is a program designed to teach children good manners. They had recently discussed basic mealtime etiquette and the party gave the students the chance to display their good manners. The students dressed in formal attire and ate lunch together. The tables were decorated with roses, candles and valentine decorations. The children enjoyed sandwiches, chips, grapes and a special treat. Everyone had a great time and displayed wonderful manners!

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

ACA Fifth-Graders Make ‘Wax Museum’

Alabama Christian Academy fifth-grade students recently worked on the “Living Wax Museum” project. Each student got to choose a famous person, living or dead, and they had to tell the story of that person as if they were the actual character. Each student was also asked to put a tri-fold together and highlight the life of that famous person. When someone wanted to know the biography of that famous person, they had to tap the student once and he immediately started talking and immersed himself into the character. The students said that they had a lot of fun working on the project.

Wetumpka Middle Student Chosen For Honor Band

Trinity Senior Named National Merit Finalist

April Desautels, an eighth-grader at Wetumpka Middle School, was selected to participate in the District 6 Honor Band. Desautels plays french horn in the WMS eighth-grade band. She has also performed with the Elmore County Honor Band and has received superior ratings at Solo & Ensemble Festival. Desautels traveled to Auburn February 24-25 to rehearse and perform with other top musicians from central Alabama.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Trinity Presbyterian School senior Kelsey Henderson was named a National Merit Finalist. She is among an elite group that represents less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors. About 1.5 million students in high schools across the country enter the program by making a high enough score on the pre-SAT. All Finalists will be considered for National Merit Scholarships to be offered in 2012. The selection of some 8,400 Merit Scholarship winners from the group of more than 15,000 Finalists is now in progress.

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Holy Cross 6th Graders Know the Dirt on Dirt

Success Unlimited Academy Achievers Bake Houses

The Achievement class at Success Unlimited Academy stayed busy making gingerbread houses recently. Students created their houses by securing each portion with white frosting. Extra frosting was put on the rooftops to make it look like snow along with some coconut. Each student decorated his house with many goodies such as candy canes, gum drops, fruit slices and colorful sprinkles. Everyone was so excited to take them home to display!

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As a part of their study of minerals, types of rocks, and the rock cycle, sixth-grade science students at Holy Cross Episcopal School recently completed a lesson on analyzing soil. Using samples gathered at home, students used hand magnifiers and microscopes to isolate and study soil components. “You start out thinking that it’s just dirt, but there really was so much more to the soil,” said sixth-grader Karli Day. “There’s an environment in my soil! “ exclaimed Elliot Steinwinder, who found a variety of small rocks, roots and insects. “I even found a small sample that looked like iron pyrite under the microscope,” he continued. “I was expecting to see things like rocks, sand, grass, and maybe even little insects,” said Anna Nutting. “Instead I found many things like quartz, seeds, tree bark, leaves, acorns, sand, sticks, plant roots, grass, little rocks and more. It was almost like there was a whole different world inside of the dirt!” After completing their soil analysis, students combined several samples with water in a two-liter bottle to create a sedimentation cylinder. Students observed the rate at which different soil components settled over a two-hour period. “The clay particles were the first to settle, and bits of leaf were still floating on the water’s surface at the end of the period,” said Hawthorne Ramsey. From left, Jack Mozingo, Hawthorne Ramsey and Fred Tippett analyze soil samples in Science Class

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Fitzpatrick Elementary Classes Reach Model & Master Status

Three Fitzpatrick Elementary teachers recently reached Renaissance Model & Master Classroom status. Front row from left are Diana Motley’s Class: Isaiah Johnson, Ashley Wright, Shylaah Mitchell, Isaih Mooney, Amanda Glover, KiDarius Rudolph, Josiah Harshaw, Timothy Washington, Ma’kayla Tatum, Darius Mitchell, Tormon Laprade, Kaitlyn Jackson, Christian Hilton, Edward Winsley, Lyria Paradise, Jalecia Rivers, London Green, Kamiya Robinson and Robin Coleman. Second row from left are Anita Hudson’s Class: Jasmyne Caldwell, Armon Weems, Brandon Mooney, Mi’kel Hicks, Cedric Davidson, Travon Rudolph, Jordan Lee, Thailiik Gardner, Aija Hill, Xander Baldwin, Ti’Nesha Austin, Gregory Jiles, Aliyah Deramus, Devonte’ Tyus, Khalil Williams, Sa’Nai Allen, Chevaz Jackson and Kemarion Pitts. Third row from left are Cassandra Mitchell’s Class: Ta’Quita Donerlson, Amarion Washington, Jakayla Sanders, Shamerria Zeigler, Lonnie Helms, Takiah Collins, Denise Haigler, Nikendra Williams, Alayzha Adair and Nakia Thomas; top back row: Jakia Forbes, Ty’Miria Knight, Marya Moss, Dakarion McDonald, Kaliyah Mickles and Bruce Pugh. Back row from left are Mrs. Anita Hudson (2nd Grade teacher), Mrs. Cassandra Mitchell (3rd grade teacher), Mrs. Diana Motley (kindergarten teacher) and Principal Anissa Clay.

Redland’s Milligan Wins County Spelling Bee

For the second year in a row, a student from Redland Elementary School has won the middle school (fifth- through eighth-grade) Elmore County Spelling Bee. Sixth-grader Bria Milligan won first place with the correct spelling of “leisure,” and Wetumpka Middle School eighth-grader Antonio George finished as runner-up. Other participants were Alyssa Thomas, a sixth-grader from Eclectic Middle; Maddux Rucker, an eighthgrader from Holtville Middle; and Michael Key, a sixth-grader from Millbrook Middle. All contestants received trophies provided by River Bank and Trust. School spelling bee coordinators were also recognized. Milligan will go on to represent Elmore County at the statewide spelling bee at Oak Mountain High School in Birmingham March 10. From left are Milligan, George, Thomas, Rucker and Key. (photo courtesy of The Wetumpka Herald) Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Trinity School’s 2nd Annual 5K & Fun Run/Walk

Trinity Presbyterian School will hold its second annual 5K Run and Fun Run/Walk Saturday, March 10. Proceeds from the race support the Trinity Annual Fund while promoting healthy lifestyles through exercise. Our course begins and ends at Trinity Presbyterian School, conveniently located just off Carmichael Road. Professional timers will be in place and awards will be given for the overall male and female finishers, plus top finishers in each age category. T-shirts will be given to all 5K and Fun Run participants registered by March 1. Both runners and walkers are welcome. Bring the whole family and enjoy fun games, inflatables, face painting, and food provided by Dreamland and the Deli at Alley Station. Registration forms available at www. trinitywildcats.com/funrun Fee: $25 per 5K participant until March 1; $30 per 5K participant after March 1 $15 per Fun Run participant before March 1; $20 per Fun Run participant after March 1 Schedule of Events: 8 a.m. - Event day registration 8:45 a.m. - Pre-race community stretch 9 a.m. - 5K begins 10 a.m. - Fun Run begins 10:30 a.m. - 5K Awards presentation Please visit www.trinitywildcats.com/funrun for more information and registration.

Catholic Knights Win Indoor Track State Titles

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Skip Martin claimed the Class 1A-4A State Championship in the 1600-meter run recently, finishing with a time of 4:34.38 at the Alabama State Indoor Track and Field Championships in Birmingham. The time by Martin was just three seconds off the state record which was set in 2003, and earned the team 10 total points on the day. A few hours after Martin won his individual state title, he ran a leg of the boys’ 4x800-meter relay team that claimed the school’s second state title of the day. The relay team of Matt Pouncey, Jarrett Mason, Martin and Connor Wright set a school record for the Knights. Wright and fellow senior Wellington Westendorf each made the medal stand as well for the Knights, with Wright finishing as the state runner-up in the 800-meter and Westendorf third in the shot put. The girls’ 4x200-meter relay team (Katherine Terino, Marissa Craig, Kenslie McOmber and Jennifer Westendorf) finished seventh overall with a new school record time of 2:02.74. The girls’ 4x800-meter relay team also picked up a point for the Knights as they finished eighth in the respective race. Meanwhile, Terino set a new school record in the 1600-meter and 3200-meter runs, finishing top 10 in each (fifth in the 1600-meter run). Mason finished fifth in the 3200-meter run with a time of 10:29, setting a new school record. Jennifer Westendorf finished in the top 10 in both the high jump and long jump for the Knights, while the boys’ 4x400-meter relay team capped off the weekend with a sixth-place finish and a new school record. The Knights’ boys’ team finished tied for fifth overall in the meet, while the girls finished tied for 11th; while only taking five female and seven male competitors to the state meet. Shown, Montgomery Catholic Indoor Track boys 4x800 State Champion relay team members Connor Wright, Skip Martin, Jarrett Mason and Matt Pouncey. (Photo by Jamie Martin)

ECA’s Ninth-Graders Enjoy English Project

STJ Kindergarteners Have ‘Snow’ Day!

Kindergarten students in Heather Pinckard’s class at Saint James School don’t mind that it’s not been cold enough to snow in Montgomery. As part of their study unit on winter, students had a “make-believe” snowball fight, making paper snowballs and throwing them as far as possible. After the event, students even collected their “snowballs” in plastic bags, so they could take the fun home! www.montgomeryparents.com

During the week of February 6-10, the ninth-grade English class at Evangel Christian Academy was busy working on projects to go along with The Alchemist, the book the class just finished reading. Students brought art supplies and worked in groups to make a 3D board game which recreated the journey of Santiago, the main character in the book. On February 13, each group presented their board game to the class. Then board games were swapped among the groups and were played using original rules to go along with each game. The goal of this project was to gauge reading comprehension and to allow the students to interact with the text. “Students learn better with a project-based learning approach,” explained Mrs. Berry, the ninthgrade English teacher. “Each of the groups had fun doing this project while learning at the same time. I am proud of the effort they put into their projects.” 40

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

PCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edward Todd Signs With Harding University

Prattville Christian Academy Senior Edward Todd signed a football scholarship with Harding University recently. He is pictured in the front row with his parents, Edward and Gwendolynne, and sister Kristalynne. Tara Osborne, PCA Assistant Athletic Director, and Ron Mitchell, PCA President, are pictured in the back. Todd played receiver, quarterback, and kick returner during his senior year at PCA, but will play wingback for Harding this fall. During his season, he scored 8 rushing TDS, 6 Receiving TDs, and 3 TD returns.

Foundation Offers Aid to Pike County Graduates

Administered by the Central Alabama Community Foundation, the Dr. James H. French Memorial Scholarship provides financial aid to graduates of Pike County high schools for college or technical school expenses. Funded in 2007 by the estate of Dr. James French, this scholarship is awarded annually to graduates of any Pike County public or private high school. The award is based on academic achievement, school and community involvement, and financial need. In light of Dr. Frenchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to increasing student interest in science and math, preference will be given to students showing proficiency in accelerated math and science coursework. Applicants must have a minimum ACT score of 23 (or SAT equivalent) and a 3.5 grade-point average on a 4.0 scale. High school transcript, two letters of reference, and an essay outlining career goals are required. Finalists may have a personal interview with the selection committee. Scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $2,500. French graduated from Pike County High School in 1934 and attended Troy University the next year. He transferred to the University of Alabama and graduated in 1937 with a major in chemistry and minors in French and sociology. He was in ROTC, Coast Artillery and a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He went to the University of Alabama Medical School (a two-year school then) and on to the University of Pennsylvania where he received his MD degree in 1941. French did his internship at Atlantic City Hospital (New Jersey). He was called to active duty in July 1942 and served in the U.S. Army 29th Infantry in Europe as a captain. Among the numerous organizations he generously supported were three rural volunteer fire departments in the Elmore County area, several churches, Landmarks Foundation, Alabama Public Television, 29th Infantry Reunion, American College of OB/GYN, University of Alabama Caduceus Club, University of Alabama Medical Alumni Association, University of Pennsylvania Medical School, and the Central Alabama Community Foundation. The Dr. James H. French Memorial Scholarship deadline is April 1. Scholarship applications are available online at www. cacfinfo.org. Frameworks of the application are available through Pike County high school guidance offices. For questions, contact Caroline Montgomery Clark at 264-6223 or cacfgrants@bellsouth.net. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Holy Cross Second Grade Visits WSFA

Kohl’s Scholarship Program Accepting Nominations

Continuing their study on weather, the Holy Cross Episcopal School second grade visited the WSFA-TV studio to meet with Meteorologist Jeff Jumper. The students learned about the movement of weather fronts, effects of barometric pressure, and how they predict the weather. They also enjoyed learning how a news team operates to produce a news show. The students were fascinated by all the different roles and jobs which are required to put on a single newscast. “Jeff did a wonderful job answering the children’s many questions about the technology and methods used to let us know about our weather,” said teacher Becky Whittle. The second-grade classes are shown with Meteorologist Jeff Jumper at the WSFA studio.

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The Kohl’s Department Stores Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program will award more than $420,000 in scholarships and prizes, ranging from $50 Kohl’s gift cards to $10,000 scholarships, to more than 2,200 young volunteers who have made a positive impact on their communities. Nominations for kids ages six to 18 will be accepted through March 15 at kohlskids.com. Two nominees from each of the more than 1,100 Kohl’s stores nationwide will win a $50 Kohl’s gift card, and more than 200 will win regional scholarships worth $1,000 toward post-secondary education. Ten national winners will be awarded a total of $10,000 in scholarships for post-secondary education and Kohl’s will donate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization on each national winner’s behalf. Since the program began in 2001, Kohl’s has recognized more than 15,000 kids with more than $3 million in scholarships and prizes. In 2012, Kohl’s celebrates its 12th year of rewarding young volunteers. In 2011, Kohl’s honored national winner Sarah Kladar, 12, who sold approximately 5,000 dishtowels and with the nearly $50,000 raised, helped financially burdened families pay for surgeryrelated expenses that were not covered by insurance. Regional winner Jaimus Ready, 8, was recognized for assembling and sending more than 350 care packages to soldiers in Afghanistan filled with candy, clothing and homemade cards from local school children.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

STJ Speech & Debate Takes Honors in T-Town

The STJ Forensics team won Third Place Overall in Individual Events, during the University of Alabama Speech and Debate Tournament in Tuscaloosa on Jan. 13-14. In addition, senior Branden Greenberg was named “Best Overall’ as an Individual Events Competitor, receiving a full scholarship to the University of Alabama for forensics. Sophomore Meagan Ashner received two first-place awards, in the Humorous Interpretation and Dramatic Interpretation categories. Sahil Patel won Second Place in Extemporaneous Speaking. Members of the 17-member STJ team placed 14 times, excluding Greenberg’s Best Overall in Individual Events award, and the team’s award. The Tuscaloosa event is a large tournament, an annual event attended by many schools in the state, including several from Montgomery. Dr. Ian Turnipseed is the coach of the Saint James School Speech and Debate team. Members of the team honored in Tuscaloosa were Branden Greenberg, Meagan Ashner, Sahil Patel, Hayden Cavanaugh, Maya Smith, Abigail Greenberg, Pierce Godwin and Carolyn Byrd. From left, Hayden Cavanaugh, Carolyn Byrd, Sahil Patel, Branden Greenberg, Maya Smith, Abigail Greenberg and Meagan Ashner hold awards they won at the tournament (Not pictured: Pierce Godwin.)

Success Unlimited Awards Junior High Honor Roll

Success Unlimited Academy Junior High School recognized its second-quarter academic honor roll students for their achievement. Focus, work ethic, commitment and discipline all played a part in the students’ success. In recognition of them, an “Honor Wall” displays each student’s name. Congratulations to eighth-graders Sarah Davis, Courtney Maxwell, Charlie Ragona and Garrett Turner; and to seventh-graders (shown here) Harrison Leonard, Sarah Moody and Toni Russell.

We are continuing the Dental Health Promotion through the month of MarchBring your pet in during March and receive 10% off your Dental!

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Cornerstone Kindergartners Make Own Pizzas

As part of their geography study, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy kindergartners traveled the world through classical children’s literature, including a stop in Italy. The students recently read the book, Papa Picolo, which introduced them to life in historic and modern-day Italy. After completing the book, the students visited CiCi’s Pizza in Montgomery. Store manager and Cornerstone dad, Santiago Gonzalez, allowed the students and their teachers, Leann Lawrence and Michelle Blount, to tour the restaurant and then make and eat their own pizzas. Several of the students’ parents also joined them for lunch.

Corporation Awards Homeschool Student

ACA Celebrates 100 Days of School

Alabama Christian Academy elementary students celebrated 100 days of school in various ways. Kindergarten students and teachers dressed up as 100-year-old men and women and had fun doing it, too. The “old” students” and teachers paraded through the high school campus walking and talking like very old people.

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Lydia Joy Williams, a fifth-grade homeschool student from Montgomery, was selected as a Prudential “PruKids Volunteer Awards” winner. She will receive $1,000 in recognition of her volunteer efforts at the Pike Road Library. The PruKids program began in 1996 and recognizes employees’ children in grades five through twelve who best exemplify the ideal of outstanding volunteer service. It compliments Prudential’s “Spirit of Community Awards.” Williams is the daughter of Rick Williams, Prudential Financial professional, and Tonya Williams. She plans to give a portion of her winnings to the library and to her church. She will also open an investment account as well as buy a new trampoline.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Holy Cross First Grade Studies Birds Up Close

The Holy Cross Episcopal School first-grade classes love their study of birds. The students study the many different species of birds, their habitats and habits. They learn the anatomy of birds as well as the way they live in different environments. The students spent one day studying emperor penguins. They learned amazing facts about these birds which live in the coldest regions of our planet. For instance, the students were surprised to learn that the daddy penguins were the caretakers of the eggs. As there are no materials available for nests, the daddy penguin takes the laid egg, rolls it onto his feet and keeps it warm with his body. Then the class pretended to be daddy penguins by placing a plastic egg on their own feet and attempting to move to place to place with the egg balanced on their feet. They found that movement was tricky, but possible without damaging the egg. To enhance the study, the classrooms are hatching their own duck eggs. The eggs were donated by parents of third-grader Maggie Kinney. Upon the babies’ arrival, they will be placed at Maggie’s farm! In the meantime, the students will study the development of the babies inside their shells. Using a special flashlight, the students will view and record the daily development they see. “It is so exciting to watch God’s work in the development and hatching of these tiny creatures,” said teacher Dianne Mann. “It is an amazing way to look at science in real time and in a very real way.” Shown above, the first-graders loved seeing the magnificent birds brought by the Montgomery Zoo. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Trinity Set Design Class Creates Water Fountain

The Trinity Presbyterian Upper School set design art class and the K5 class created a water fountain for the Kindergarten Commons Area as the Lower School continued its month-long cultural study of Spain. The fountain was inspired by the Festival de los Patios or the Festival of the Patios, a time when residents of Cordoban, Spain, open up their homes and patios to the delight of neighbors and tourists. Held during the second week of May, the Festival de los Patios is literally a city-wide search for the best and most beautifully designed patio. This festival traces its roots to 1918 to honor the locals’ efforts to retain and maintain these traditional areas in the home. Becky Miller, set design art teacher, said the fountain was made from recycled materials from past sets. The girls made tissue paper flowers and helped the kindergarten students make them during their break time. Then they created the “wall” of solo cups and flowers outside each of the classrooms. They also painted donated pots and created the large flowers as well as the signage. The older students enjoyed working with the younger students to make this beautiful scene from Spain! Set design students include Kali Camerio, Avery Draper, Anna Lee Curles, Anna Fatzinger, Sommer Henry, Savannah Hitchcock, Payne Jennings, Laren Kingry, Davis Mann, Warner Mathis, Catherine Meriwether, Jordan Olsen, Hayden Payne, Spenser Shuneman, Austin Turenne, Meri Dean Hamilton.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

ACA Student Wins Third in Spelling Bee

For the first time in a decade or more, if not ever, Alabama Christian Academy had a third-place winner in the Montgomery County Spelling Bee held on February 5. Keely Nguyen made it to the sixth round and collected the $100 check for the thirdplace prize.

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BrewTech Student Places in Essay Contest

Brewbaker Technology Magnet High had several entries in the 11th annual To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Contest, sponsored by the University of Alabama and the Alabama Department of Education. Dominique Kelly was the overall winner of the school contest and received a certificate and $75 from the University of Alabama. Sophomore Tyesha Hall, freshman Marvin Royal and junior Sheri Johnson also placed in the schoolwide competition. Kelly, along with school winners across the state, was recognized with a luncheon and awards ceremony on the UA campus. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and UA faculty member Rick Bragg served as guest speaker.

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SUA Jr. High Class Throws Party for Jesus

Success Unlimited Academy junior high students planned their classroom Christmas party with a lot of enthusiasm. What does everybody want to eat and what should we do? One student asked, “ Can I bring a cookie cake?” All roared back, “Of course!” When someone asked what to put on the cake, the conversation turned to, “Whose birthday is this anyway?” With that came the answer, JESUS... and that’s what had to go on the cake...”HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS.” When it arrived that morning, it was a beauty, and the class began its party with the Christmas story from Luke 2 and the warmest rendition of “Happy Birthday” ever.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

STJ Basketball Teams Win Championship

Saint James Boys’ Middle School and Girls’ Junior Varsity basketball teams emerged as the end of the season Capital City Champions after a weekend of highly competitive play in late January. For the girls, Regan Riddle was named tournament MVP and Lacie Vette was placed on the all-tournament team for the JV girls. Mason Blackwell was named tournament MVP and Dozier Dean was placed on the all-tournament team for the middle school boys. The JV girls finished the year undefeated with a 9-0 record and the MS boys finished the year 12-1. Both teams were recognized for their excellent CCC performance and their season records during the STJ Girls Varsity game at the school on February 3. STJ’s victorious Junior Varsity Girls’ basketball team is, seated: Win Woodson, Regan Riddle, Lacie Vette and Zuri Foster; standing: Lindsey Engles, Coach Gilliland, Shelby Graves, Hannah Cape, Cassie Sadie and Sarah Kean. STJ’s Boys’ Middle School team are, down front: Dozier Dean; kneeling, MJ Melendez, Channy Blackwell, Sterling Jones, EJ Card, Davis Daniel, Brady Greene and Russell Olsey; standing, Sam Edwards, Reid Woodson, Ty Deemer, Mason Blackwell, Atchison Hubbard, Keith Kirkwood, Wes Cherry and Joseph Gary.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Lighthouse Christian Students 100 Days Smarter!

ACA Blood Drive Yields 135 Units

The Alabama Christian Academy National Honor Society held a very successful blood drive January 18. Thanks to the students, faculty, staff and parents who donated 135 units of blood. This surpassed our goal and tied the second-highest contribution at ACA. Brittney Urquhart is shown giving Nick Wysmulek some moral support.

Lighthouse Christian Academy celebrated the 100th day of school in 100 different ways. During Bible, the students learned about Abraham being 100 years old when Isaac was born. They had 100 paper clips that were used to measure different objects and measured the length of 100 pennies. Then the students estimated how many times they could do different things in 100 seconds. They did the task to see if their estimate was correct. In art and language, the students brought in posters that they had made at home of 100 different items. They also made a list of 100 things/places/ people that they are thankful for. Then the students put together a 100-piece puzzle. The rest of the day was filled with a variety of fun activities!

Trinity Succeeds at YMCA ‘Youth in City’

Trinity Presbyterian School students participated in Youth in City February 3. Taylor Lollar was chosen Top Delegate. Jackson Britton won honorable mention in the best ordinance category for his “Parking Amnesty Program.” Dakin Hill served as mayor and presided over the chamber. Emily Stone served as one of eight city council members. Meredith Kingry served as reading clerk. Mayor Todd Strange stopped by to talk to the students. He emphasized how being part of a team can lead to success. Several councilmen also stopped by to see the students in action. “Councilman” Emily Stone said the opening prayer at the Youth in City luncheon. John Stewart from the Optimist Club of the Capital City addressed the students and awarded Dakin Hill with the 2012 Mayor’s plaque. Hill addressed the audience as outgoing mayor and awarded the city council with their plaques. From left are Phelps Williams, Jackson Britton, Taylor Lollar, Dakin Hill, Meredith Kingry, Miller Johnson, and Emily Stone. www.montgomeryparents.com

BrewTech Literature Seniors Host Period Celebration Seniors in Kyla Ward’s AP Literature and Composition course at Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School recently hosted a successful celebration honoring England’s Regency period. Students brought dishes and beverages from the period and discussed what they’d learned about Regency table etiquette and social customs. The celebration was held in conjunction with reading Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Korean Students Visit Eastwood

Winnie the Pooh Celebrates His Birthday at Evangel

The K4 and K5 kindergarten classes at Evangel Christian Academy celebrated a very special birthday in January. Winnie the Pooh turned one year older and the children had a special “Pooh Day” in honor of their favorite bear. The students enjoyed cupcakes and sang “Happy Birthday” to Winnie the Pooh, who dropped by for lunch. The classes also enjoyed stories about their favorite character and his friends. One of their favorite stories was Pooh’s Grand Adventure, in which Christopher Robin goes to school for the first time. The children also watched the movie “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.” The annual celebration centered around the birthday of A.A. Milne, the creator of Winnie the Pooh. The kindergartners were excited to learn that Christopher Robin was the real-life son of A.A. Milne and that the characters in the Hundred Acre Woods were based on stuffed animals Christopher Robin owned.

Recently at Eastwood Christian School, the students were blessed by having the privilege of hosting eight students from Korea in their classrooms along with their chaperones Daniel Lee, Kim Nawon, Sim Soo Un and Ryu Gye Jin. The communication was a little slow at first, but it didn’t take long before there were smiles, friends, and lots of fun that made for a great opportunity to learn from each other and their cultures. The students visited classrooms from grades three through nine. During their week-anda-half visit, these students participated in the day-to-day activities of a school day, and made lots of friends in the process. They also had the opportunity to enjoy a week-long home-stay to experience life in an American home. Shown are Korean students Lee Yoon-Na, Hwang Ji Eun, Son Junseong, Heo Min Ho,Su Min, Sun Min, Seong Mu and Gi Hyun.

Wares Ferry Third-Graders Complete Weather Unit

Third-grade students at Wares Ferry Road Elementary recently completed a unit on the weather. Students learned what meteorologists do and learned the techniques they use to observe the weather. They also participated in hands-on activities, like creating a tornado in a bottle and learning how to use tools like thermometers, barometers and rain gauges, and illustrated pictures for WSFA’s Sketch the Sky segment, which are shown here. From top left are India Saxon, Tara McCoy, Ana Alvarez, Aniyah Dudley-Smith, Kiyana Sharpe and Shemiah Scott; and bottom, Tyler Atkisson, Mia Warren, Eimaji Echols, Onterrio Washington and D’Anfrenee Bonner.

Redland Science Fair Winners Compete in County’s Fair Fourth- through sixth-graders from Redland Elementary School entered projects in the school’s science fair recently, with the following students winning in their categories: Earth/Physical 1st place - Nia Kate Bray (4th grade), “Some Like it Hot”; Earth/Physical 2nd place- Nathan Swanson (6th grade), “Zippy Zipline”; www.montgomeryparents.com

Earth/Physical 3rd place - Noah Taylor (5th grade), “Eggztra Care”; Life 1st place - George Germanos (6th grade), “Tasting with Our Eyes”; Life 2nd place - Josh Hunt (5th grade), “Which Fruit Juice has the Most Vitamin C”; and Life 3rd place - Jalyn Carlton (5th grade), “Fruit and Veggie Power.” 52

These students took their projects on to the Elmore County Science Fair, where Germanos won “Best in Show” in the Middle School Division and third place in the life science division. Taylor won third place in the earth/physical science division, and Hunt won second place in the life science division. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Carr Teacher Earns Board Certification

Johnnie Carr Middle School teacher Samantha Mayweather was among 6,000 teachers across the country to earn the distinction of achieving National Board Certification. National Board Certification is considered the â&#x20AC;&#x153;gold standardâ&#x20AC;? for teaching excellence. It is recognized as the source for the highest standards and practices that lead to improved teaching, leading and learning. National Board Certification is achieved through performance-based assessment and testing that takes up to three years to complete. While state teacher credentialing programs set the basic requirements to teach in each state, National Board Certified Teachers go above and beyond those standards by successfully demonstrating advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Becoming certified signifies that a teacher has developed and demonstrated the skills required of an accomplished education professional. For her achievement, Mayweather is now eligible to receive a $3,500 annual stipend.

Be Mine!

First-grade students at Edgewood Academy enjoyed their recent Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Party at school. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Southside Mathletes Compete in Auburn

STJ Students ‘Go Glee!’ For Annual Cabaret

The ups and downs of high school life – and the music that gets students through it – make up the context of each weekly episode of Glee, the highly popular FOX TV series. In early February, the Saint James Performing Arts Department brought the music and dance of the award-winning series to the stage with Go Glee!, the 2012 installment of the school’s yearly “Cabaret.” The production is an annual fundraiser for the STJ Performing Arts Department, running for four performances, including one evening that had a dinner theatre format. Student performers rocked the stage with popular songs and choreographed dance routines, including numbers like “The Time Warp” from The Rocky Horror Picture Show to Michael Jackson’s chilling, yet fun “Thriller,” to the Bruno Mars hit “Marry You.” From classic rock songs to current pop hits, the music and dancing in Go Glee! appealed to young and old alike. “These songs were so much fun to sing,” said sophomore Zach Jeffcoat, a veteran performer with many STJ productions to his credit. “Everyone in the audience was familiar with them [the songs], so it turned into a giant singalong during certain parts of the performance!” Go Glee! was staged in the Saint James Performing Arts Building, on the school’s Vaughn Road campus. Saint James School Performing Arts students, from left, Meggie Bontrager, Zach Jeffcoat, Zach Taylor and Victoria Mulero practiced their song and dance routines for the school’s annual Cabaret. www.montgomeryparents.com

The Southside Middle School Mathletes from Tallassee competed in the first annual Auburn Mathematical Puzzle Challenge (AMP’d) February 4 at Auburn University. From 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., the students were engaged in real-world problem solving, using practical applications of mathematics, acquiring competence and confidence, developing leadership skills, and having a great time. Southside’s seventh-grade team won the “Super Sleuth Award” for not using any hints to solve the difficult challenges. The seventh-grade team members, coached by math teacher Tera Moore, were Baye Brantley, Margaret Dean, Landon DuBose, Chris Grover, Arlundo Heard, Taylor Lindsey, Massey Speake and Manvinder Suden. Southside’s eighth-graders Triston Brooks, Dalton Black, Bailey Clem, Michael Fulmer, Alfred Heard, Helen Ko, Maggie Martinez, Natasha Selmon and Joni Sims worked together as the second team. The eighth-grade team was coached by math teacher and Mathletes sponsor Catie Carrigan. To prepare for the competition, students stayed after school every Thursday. Carrigan simulated the competition in the after-school session by giving the students open-ended problems that required teamwork. “The College of Science and Mathematics Department at Auburn did a wonderful job creating fun, challenging and engaging problems for seventhand eighth-grade students. I am so proud of how our students not only did outstanding, but also that they dedicated a Saturday to work on math,” said Carrigan. Carrigan, the Mathletes sponsor, is shown.

Distinguished Young Women Visit Saint James School

Saint James Elementary essay winners in the “Be Your Best Self” competition were announced on Jan. 17, in the presence of contenders for The Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama title. The visit was arranged by Joyce Haven, a second-grade teacher at the school who has worked with the Distinguished Young Women in Alabama program (formerly known as Junior Miss) for 19 years. Shown here are the essay-winning STJ students, with the Distinguished Young Woman candidates, who also performed their talent programs for the children: First row from left, Shaun Bridges, Reese Hunter, Mary Rodgers Prim, Natalie Barna, Justin Rose and Mary Julian Setzer (not pictured: Emily Buce and Hudson Sheldon); and Back row from left, Jordyn Madden (Escambia County), Carla Faulkner (Pike County), Lexie Gate Rasco (Talladega County), Megan Smith (Morgan County), Sara Kathryn Espy (Barbour County), Jenny Lamberth (Tallapoosa County), Madeline Caver (Elmore County) and Sara Caitlin Godwin (Lee County). 54

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Catholic Celebrates 100th Day of School

Students at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School recently celebrated the 100th day of school in 100 different ways. Kindergarten students in Debbie Redden’s class made a 100-item snack as they rotated to stations and counted out ten of each item. They used paint to make ten dots with ten different colors on each of their hats and created necklaces made from cereal when the students counted 100 pieces and then strung them. Redden used the interactive SmartBoard to count by twos, fives and tens to 100. Each student also brought to school 100 items collected from home, which they counted and graphed by: less than 100, 100, and more than 100. To top off the day, Redden read several 100th Day of School books.

ECA’s Art Class Helps Charity

Students of Evangel Christian Academy’s high school art class donated their time and talent to help a worthy cause. The students painted and decorated birdhouses, butterfly houses, tool boxes, and herb gardens. All of the projects were featured at the Montgomery 2012 Home and Garden Exposition. The houses were auctioned and all of the proceeds were donated to Habitat for Humanity. Students who participated were: Chaseton Allen, Copeland Bush, Megan Carmack, David Colston, Rachael Gilbert, Jay Grice, Lee Hodgeson, Jacob Jinright, Latrina Kelly, Thor Kilgore, Patrick Knockemus, Keandra Lee, John Russell, Brandon Scott, Chris Sanford, Breonna Walker, Justin Arnold, Sarah Baxley, Allison Berg, Trenton Clayton, Emily Cosgrove, Madolyn Mayberry, Hannah McLennan, MaryBeth Peters, Keling Sexton, Michael Walker, Lonnie Washington, David Whitlow and Dennis Yang.

Catholic Band Members Earn District, State Honors

Nine musically talented middle and high school students from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School have been selected for the All-District and All-State Honor Bands. Students are selected for these honor bands through an audition process from a pool of students throughout the various districts and throughout the state. Montgomery Catholic band members selected for the District Honor Band were middle school students Brian Lee, 4th chair clarinet; Logan Stevens, 10th chair clarinet; Mary Reagan Starrett, 15th chair clarinet; Adam Bristol, 3rd chair trombone; and Eric Crenshaw, 6th chair percussion. High school students selected for the District Honor Band were Josh Stark, 6th chair alto saxophone; Joseph Sutton, 1st chair trombone; Will Brunson, 5th chair tuba; and Justis Davis, 6th chair percussion. Brian Lee and Joseph Sutton were selected for the All-State Honor Band. Adam Bristol was selected as an alternate for the Middle School All-State Honor Band. The District Honor Band members performed together at Auburn High School February 24 and 25. The All-State Honor Band members will perform at the Mobile Convention Center April 11 through 14. Alex Johnson is the Director of Bands at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Band members selected for All-District and AllState Honor Bands are, from left, Brian Lee, Joseph Sutton, Will Brunson, Mary Reagan Starrett, Josh Stark, Eric Crenshaw, Justis Davis and Adam Bristol. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Trinity Seniors Sign Football Scholarships

From left, Trinity Presbyterian School seniors Andy Pappanastos and Walker Van Hooser signed football scholarships on February 1 in a signing ceremony held in the Trinity gym lobby. Pappanastos was Trinity’s kicker and signed with Ole Miss. Van Hooser was Trinity’s quarterback and signed with Tulane University. Local media, including representatives from WSFA, WAKA and the Montgomery Advertiser were present, as well as many friends and family of the two young men. After the signing, Pappanastos and Van Hooser conducted several interviews with the local media. www.montgomeryparents.com

Success Unlimited Faculty Holds AdvancEd In-services Catholic’s Ceasar Named Success Unlimited Academy faculty is preparing for the AdvancEd visit in April. Outstanding Administrator Many in-services have been held throughout the year to collaborate on new goals and strategic plans for the future. SUA has been researching new curriculum and has plans to add new courses in the coming years. One major goal is to add Advanced Placement (AP) classes. “Students attend SUA with varying levels of aptitude, so creating a curriculum that addresses the needs of all learners is challenging,” said Janice Nunnelly, director of student services. New assessment instruments are being used to determine possible learning disabilities or giftedness. Administrative team members are also being trained in how to administer these new tests so that students who need accommodations and modifications can be identified and receive the extra help they need. Seen here are staff members Beth Royal, Laura Brown, Jana Edmundson, Lauren Morgan, Sharion Vandervort and Jack Moody sorting various key points amongst the 7 Standards.

Tallassee Band Students Perform with Honor Band

Several of Tallassee’s finest musicians performed in the Auburn University Honor Band held February 2-4 on the campus of Auburn University. The students applied and were accepted based on the recommendations of their band directors, Robby Glasscock at Tallassee High School and Michael Bird at Southside Middle School. Once accepted, they auditioned for chair placements on major scales, a chromatic scale, and sight reading. In nine hours of rehearsals, they put on an amazing concert that was held at Auburn High School. The students had time for other activities during their stay in Auburn, including bowling and swimming. Pictured are Austin Davidson (percussion), Harmony Green (5th chair baritone), Bradley Brown (6th chair tuba), Charlcie Hathorn (2nd chair flute), Bailey Mann (10th chair trombone), Jillian Clark (5th chair trombone), Katherine Griggs (9th chair trombone), Breanna Felts (8th chair trumpet) and Jordan Dark (11th chair trumpet). Not pictured: Zachary Oliver (percussion).

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Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School President Anne Ceasar was recently named as the Alabama Association of Foreign Language Teachers (AAFT) Outstanding Administrator for 2012 by the AAFT Board of Directors. The Alabama Association of Foreign Language Teachers is a statewide umbrella organization for the Alabama chapters of the American Association of Teachers of French, the American Association of Teachers of German, the American Association of Teachers of Italian, the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese, and the National Association of Self-Instructional Programs, as well as for the following local language groups: the Alabama Classical Association, the Alabama Association of Foreign Languages in Elementary Schools, and the Alabama Association of Bilingual/English as a Second Language. Their purpose is to provide united action in promoting in the state of Alabama the effective teaching, study, and appreciation of foreign languages and cultures through our annual conference and other activities. AAFLT advocates the advancement of the study of languages, their literatures and cultures at all levels of instruction. Each year, the AAFLT board of directors selects one administrator for its Annual Outstanding Administrator Award winner. Ceasar was honored as the 2012 recipient at the AAFLT Conference luncheon held on the campus of Auburn Montgomery. (Photo by The Studio at EastChase) Montgomery Parents I March 2012

BTW, LAMP Students Named Achievement Finalists

Booker T. Washington Magnet High students Deondra Hamilton and Adrianna Ervin and LAMP students Kelsey Fitzpatrick, Maleah Gilchrist, Remington Holt, Carleshia Jackson, Allison Smith, and Robin Tinglin have been named Finalists by the National Achievement Scholarship Program. Earlier this fall, these students were named among 1,600 of the nation’s top African-American students to be designated as Achievement Semifinalist from a pool of about 160,000 who applied for the program nationwide. “These young people are bright and highly motivated,” said MPS Superintendent Barbara Thompson. “They have proven themselves to be among the best of the best. Principals Quesha Starks and Sylvia Goshton and their teachers, staff and parents have done an outstanding job. I am very proud of what they have achieved.” Achievement Semifinalists represent the highest scoring program entrants in each state. The students were evaluated based on their scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, academic record, community involvement, leadership ability and personal essay. They advanced in the competition and for achieving finalists standing they will be eligible for a $2,500 Achievement Scholarship. They will also be considered for some 800 Achievement Scholarship awards worth $2.6 million from corporations, colleges and universities. In photo at left are BTW students Deondra Hamilton and Adrianna Ervin. LAMP Achievement Semifinalists are shown below with Superintendent Thompson this fall.

Academy Sixth-Graders Travel to Medieval Times

On January 20, Montgomery Academy’s sixth-grade class traveled to Lawrenceville, Georgia, to experience Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament. The class got a unique insight into what it was like to live in the medieval time period. They enjoyed a seminar on medieval times, a medieval meal and the ever-exciting tournament of knights!

Police Dog Visits Learning Academy

The pre-K students at A Great Start Learning Academy were treated to a visit from some special guests, Officer Tucker and Bodi the police dog! The children learned what a police dog does and saw Officer Tucker demonstrate some commands.

Trinity Science Challenge Creates Contraptions

Recently, Trinity Presbyterian School’s physical science students were presented the challenge of building Rube Goldberg conversion contraptions. Goldberg was famous for designing very complicated mechanical methods to accomplish a very simple task. Students used reclaimed/ recycled materials to construct a contraption that would knock over a tennis ball sitting on top of a toilet paper roll. Each group was required to have three objects that would fall, five objects that would move, and three different simple machines for the process. There was a bonus opportunity for groups to lift the ball off the roll instead of just knocking it over. From left are Trinity sophomores Lee Madison, Chase Reid and J.O. Cooper.

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Holy Cross Studies Focus on Italy On February 16, Holy Cross Episcopal School took its students and guests on a virtual trip to Italy! The Global Studies unit began on January 26, so the students had been preparing for weeks for this wonderful event. To introduce the students to an Italian experience, they were treated to a Great Hall transformed into the streets of Italy complete with food, a gondola and artifacts from Pompeii. As the students traveled down the streets, they learned about various Italian dishes, heard beautiful Italian music and even watched a Power Point about some of the more famous geographic locations in Italy. After the Opening Event, the classrooms got down to business studying their focus area of Italian culture. Kindergarten and pre-Kindergarten enjoyed studying favorite foods, while first-graders learned the Italian song “That’s Amore” and performed dressed as ancient Roman citizens. They also presented facts about Italy that

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they learned in class. The second-grade classes worked on a presentation of the Italian folk tale, “Tony’s Bread,” an adaptation of the folktale by Tomie dePaola. To coincide with their study of communities, third grade created The Vatican in Rome for all to see. Parents and students worked together to create the beautiful buildings seen in this portion of Rome. The fourth-grade class created a Power Point of facts about Italian culture to share with the school. The fifth-graders decided to look at the old and the new in Italy. They studied the effects of Mt. Vesuvius’s eruption during ancient times, and the effect of the Ferrari industry on the current economy in Italy. Their classroom presentation was entitled, “The Fast and the Furious.” The sixth-grade class decided to portray an archaeological team which was working on a dig of Pompeii just at the base of Mt. Vesuvius. The students dressed as graduate student workers who

“discovered” artifacts from the famous city. Students created all sorts of artifacts which they researched and presented to the audience. The Global Museum coincided with Holy Cross Grandparents’ Day. The grandparents were able to see the presentations and then attend the Reception in their honor. Shown, pre-K grade students learned about the varieties of Italian foods.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Holy Cross Igloo Now Complete

Grace Ann Armagost and Cynthia Echolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kindergarten classes at Holy Cross Episcopal School have been learning about winter. The students studied animals and birds of Arctic areas, as well as the geography of the areas around the North and South Poles. The unit also includes wintry weather and holidays. The students even created snow crystals in the classroom during their science lesson. As a part of the study, the classes constructed a life-size igloo with milk jugs to correlate with the unit on arctic animals and hibernation. The igloo is large enough for 8-10 kindergartners to sit in and enjoy reading books relating to the unit. The project was school-wide in the sense that the classes enlisted the help of the entire school to collect jugs. The students brought in 428 gallon jugs. Even Starbucks on the Atlanta Highway donated jugs! The igloo will be on display in the hallway for everyone to enjoy the arctic experience. Students have begun to use the igloo as a reading space. Shown, kindergartners Ty Carter, Danielle Vaughans, Will Alexander and Ellis Edmonds are so proud of their igloo.

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ACA Holds Special Day For Grandparents & Friends Alabama Christian Academy held its Annual Elementary Grandparents and Special Friends Day recently and a lot of grandparents showed their support. The day started with a light breakfast, after which the special guests visited their grandchild(ren)â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classrooms and met with the homeroom teachers. There was also a Scholastic Book Fair and the grandparents could purchase a book, or books, for their grandchild(ren). The day was concluded with grade performances in the gym and a chapel which was led by fourth-grader Gavin Lyle.

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Bug Your Kids, They’ll Love It!

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

As the smallest members of the human race, children are quick to discover the charms and wonders of the world of even-smaller-than-they-are…insects. From fireflies and butterflies to roly-poly bugs and ants (ouch!), insects are some of the most accessible and interesting animals that share our habitats. They are plentiful, easy to find and educational on almost every level. The following items help bring insects into view so kids can overcome any aversion to the alien appearance of bugs and can develop an appreciation for the creatures that pollinate our plants, fertilize our soil and light up our lives.

by Paige Gardner Smith

Pop-Up Port-A-Bug

AntWorks Illuminator

Once curiosity overcomes hesitation when handling insects, kids are quick to pick up crawling creatures with fewer and fewer reservations. However, the insects on the receiving end don’t always fare well with enthusiastic handling. Enter the Popup Port-A-Bug, a soft-sided springsupported mesh container that is ideal for collecting and studying everything that creeps, crawls or flies. Lightweight, escape-proof and collapsible, insects fare well in this temporary environment while children get the close-up exposure they seek. Perfect for filling with fireflies on summer nights or caterpillars in the afternoons – both kids and creepers benefit from this bouncy boundary!

Here’s the dirt on ant farms: Dirt is out and gel is in. Based on a 2003 NASA experiment to study ants in zero gravity, AntWorks uses a clear nutrient gel that creates the matrix for ants to explore, alter, inhabit, and ingest! The ants need no food or water as both are provided in the gel nutrient they are tunneling through. With an LED illuminated base, the AntWorks ant habitat also becomes a beauty of its own when the ants’ activity is gently lit with a cool blue light permeating the gel. Study tools and instructions for ordering the ants are included so kids can soon look forward to a glowing glimpse into the world of ant interaction.

(Insect Lore)

(Fascinations)

Backyard Safari Field Scope

Bugs World Blocks (Wild Creations)

Before moving to the living examples of the insect world, Wild Creations’ Bugs World Blocks offer an ideal opportunity to handle and examine specimens of various insects in great detail without fear or discomfort. Encased in transparent blocks of resin, this kit includes six real insects preserved for study along with colorful cards on each bug that relate interesting facts and peculiarities about them. The blocks themselves are perfects for handling, make excellent displays and will likely be the first thing your child want to share at show-and-tell!

(Summit)

The best way to really get to know an insect is to observe it in its natural habitat, but getting that close can be a challenge even for kids (who are much closer to the ground than adults). The Backyard Safari Field Scope offers a solution for the intrepid entomologist. A hand-held viewing scope with a concave end ‘traps’ an insect temporarily in-situ letting the viewer magnify its image up to six times the actual size. LED lights allow for better viewing in dark or shady environs. The first real field study tool for kids, this scope gets up close and personal with the insects right at your feet.

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

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Boost Your Young Child’s Vocabulary 5 Strategies to Get Ready to Read by Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

Who can forget their child’s first word? Was it your name? A pet’s name? Whatever it was, it probably lit up your faces with joy. It feels natural to praise our toddlers as they acquire new language skills daily, and a parent’s enthusiasm reinforces a child’s to speak additional words. But what about when your toddler isn’t a toddler anymore? Psychology professor Bob McMurray says unfortunately, parents tend to stop emphasizing language as their kids leave toddlerhood. A preschooler’s vocabulary is a critical predictor of school preparedness and reading comprehension, so it is extra important parents do what they can to boost it. McMurray’s research reveals an explosion in vocabulary (or “word spurt”) is dependent upon a child learning a mix of words, both easy and not easy and all at once. Additionally, vocabulary explosions require specifically “more difficult words than easy words.” The professor and other language experts suggest the following to boost your child’s verbal skills.

Mealtime Magic

A child’s vocabulary can be enhanced by our talk at the dinner table. Use moments around the table to introduce new words, especially challenging ones since you’ll have their attention in a pleasant setting. What to discuss? In www.montgomeryparents.com

a mealtime study, Diane Beals and her colleagues at the University of Tulsa discovered that 3- and 4-yearolds who were exposed to uncommon words such as “boxer,” “wriggling,” or “tackle,” scored higher on later standardized tests at age 5. Beals says forget about serving up a thesaurus at the table and instead discuss “your day or something cool you saw at the store.” Bringing in new words helps them to form connections between words and real-life events.

Literature for Learning

Reading your child a story creates magic for both of you and is beneficial to their growing vocabulary 62

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when you ask lots of questions during the story, checking for understanding. If your preschooler does not recognize a word when you quiz her, ask her to study the illustration for clues. Classics like Where the Wild Things Are contain new words your child may not otherwise hear or accommodate such as “rumpus” and “gnashed.” Throughout the book, continue to interact with your child, asking open-ended questions such as “What do you suppose will happen next?” and “Why do you suppose Max felt so angry?” Such interactions with books and novel vocabulary will improve the quality of their language skills, setting them up for increased success in school.

Guessing Gives Them an Edge

Consider a little restraint to challenge your child. McMurray suggests that instead of automatically doling out definitions for your preschooler when they become stumped on a word’s meaning, you should offer clues and allow her to figure it out on her own. If, for example, the word in question is “equestrian,” give her hints such as saddle, mane or stable. It can also be helpful to “tell them what it isn’t.” You could say “not cows, but…”

‘Show & Tell’ at Home

Who says “show and tell” is simply for school? You can easily use this activity to describe and discuss objects to expand their vocabulary outside of school. You could demonstrate how a hand chopper dices vegetables and explain the appliance’s function and efficiency. You could show your child checks in your checkbook, discussing how these small sheets of paper are used for payments. ‘Show and tell’ captures your child’s attention and provides something to touch and see in order to anchor vocabulary in memory.

Make Believe Pays Off

Engaging your child in pretend play will introduce her to a wider variety of vocabulary words. If you are playing restaurant, for example, there are all sorts of unfamiliar words to be integrated into the play— menu, hostess, variety, or beverage. If you are playing spaceship and she wants to land on the moon, vocabulary such as lunar, satellite, or gravity can be incorporated. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Outside of pretend play, parents can help children better remember the meanings of words by acting them out. Even explaining shrugging your shoulders means “I don’t know” is helpful. Is all the drama really necessary? Consider a University of Chicago study which was the first to connect gesture, vocabulary and school preparedness. Conducted by Susan Goldin-Meadow, the results indicate children who use more gestures at 14 months have larger vocabularies at 54 months and are better prepared for school. 63

Goldin-Meadow writes “Child gesturing could play an indirect role in word learning by eliciting timely speech from parents.” Why? A child pointing to an object like a cup might elicit a response from the parent such as “Yes, that’s a cup!” Do try to incorporate all five of these strategies to boost your child’s growing verbal repertoire today. This will help her become a better reader tomorrow. mp Michele Ranard has two children, a master’s in counseling, and a blog at hellolovelyinc.blogspot.com.

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Clutter Alienates by The FlyLady, Marla Cilley

Clutter hurts our marriages. It affects the way we feel about ourselves and makes us sluggish. When our homes are filled with clutter, we just want to flee. We do everything in our power to not have to look at it. Here are some things we do. We hide out in the bed so we don’t have to see it. We leave the house for the day and don’t come home until late. We volunteer for things to keep us out of the house. A busy person does not have time to clean and declutter. This gives you an excuse. When you walk in the door after a day of

running around, facing the clutter stops you dead in your tracks. Since you don’t know where to start, you do nothing. Clutter sucks the energy right out of you. This is why I have urged you to shine your sink. Just seeing one small area that is clean and clutter free gives you the energy to do more. The same way that clutter tends to grow in our hotspots, clutter free areas are contagious, too. With just a small area clean, you will begin to clean and clear the areas surrounding your bright spot. Keep your counters clear as you cook. Don’t let things pile up. Clean up after each dish prepared. Fill your sink with fresh hot soapy water each time it gets dirty and cold. Put out clean dish towels and dish cloths. When you get an area clean, declare it a clutter free zone.

Use your hot spot preventions twice daily to keep them clear of clutter. Our husbands and children are pushed away by this clutter. We allow it to alienate our family from us. Husbands hide in the bedroom, the family room in front of the TV, tinkering in the garage, or they don’t come home at all. As a result of husbands protecting themselves from the clutter, you feel abandoned. Lines of communication become broken because clutter can push people apart. Look at what happens with your children. With clutter everywhere, they have a problem sitting still. Yes, I sincerely believe that clutter affects our ability to focus. This is a downward spiral. This contributes to more clutter and chaos. Our children are seeing our lack of structure and discipline. They do not want to mind us, when we tell them to clean their room. Why should they? Our room is not clean. You will find that when you set this clutter-free example, even just in one area, you will begin to see a change in your children. They will be more willing to help when they see you doing something. You are not a bad mom, a bad wife or a bad person! The only problem is that we have allowed the enemy CLUTTER to invade our territory. It is time to take back our homes and find the peace that we know is there. You will know this, too, when you clean one small area of the clutter and keep it clear. This victory will be yours and your whole family will celebrate. Set your timer for 15 minutes and practice our new habit for March. Just grab a trash bag and start tossing! It is time to kick that clutter right out of our lives! For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website and join her free mentoring group at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections, published by Random House and her New York Times best selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2012 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

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To Brush or Not to Brush... That’s a Good Question!

made to create

SEW BERNINA 51 N. Burbank Dr Montgomery, AL 36117 334-274-0887

a painful inflammation that leads to gum recession, bone infection, loosening of teeth, and ultimately, tooth loss. However, the bacteria causing gingivitis does not stay in your pets mouth. It spreads through the bloodstream and infects other internal organs. Thus, periodontal disease can be a source of recurrent infections in the liver, pancreas, heat valves, kidneys, and urinary tract. The initial sign of periodontal disease is often bad breath. Many pet owners associate this odor with “doggie breath” and believe it is part of normal aging. However, bad doggie breath could be more

than just “normal aging.” Bad breath may be a sign that needs to be addressed. Periodontal disease is a problem that can be prevented with proper care. Regular dental care through tooth brushing, using appropriate diets designed to minimize the accumulation of plaque and tartar, can help. In addition, regular veterinary visits for dental examinations and complete cleaning and polishing help prevent the long term affects of periodontal disease. Dental disease in pets is a serious health risk for our pets, in part because it is a “silent” disease. Our pets cannot convey to us their teeth hurt. Therefore, we must look at our pet’s teeth often, to brush those teeth, and to visit the veterinarian at least twice per year so that he/she can look for evidence of gingivitis and/or periodontitis. Dr. Philip Mitchell, veterinarian at Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital, in Montgomery.

The purpose of National Pet Dental Health Month held last month, and each February, is to raise awareness that pets need dental care, too. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have oral disease by the time they are three years old. Not only is oral disease common, if left untreated it can affect the overall health of your family pet. This is because bacteria thrive in the plaque and tartar that build up along the teeth and below the gums, causing gingivitis. Gingivitis, as it progresses, causes periodontal disease,

www.berninausa.com

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Camp Provides More Than Fun For Kids

overnight camps are structured to provide tasks and games that can challenge your child and have specifically designed age-appropriate activities. They are set up to stretch your child’s physical and mental abilities within a secure atmosphere. “Building self confidence for most kids is the opportunity to have successes and take healthy risks in a safe and supportive environment,” says Riel Peerbooms, Executive Director of Trail Blazers.org. As a parent, you might not challenge your child to try something you think might be too hard or scary for her. Yet at camp, the environment is electrified with possibilities and opportunities. Your child can explore with teammates new activities and become more confident in herself.

New Challenges

by Jan Udlock

When your child goes to camp, you know he’s going to meet new kids and have fun. Yet, the camp experience can provide much more than just a fun time. Camp can provide kids a wide variety of experiences that can expand their thinkwww.montgomeryparents.com

ing, broaden their friendships, strengthen their self esteem, and enhance their self reliance.

Build Confidence

Camp provides opportunities for kids to build their confidence. Day camps and 66

Your child will meet new kids that may be from a different economic or family background. Kids from different states will be cabin mates. This will broaden your kid’s view of the world. They will learn other kid’s pet peeves and family jokes. “This is what camp does best, create nurturing environments, with much personal attention, where kids can explore new external and internal worlds.” says Peerbooms. Your child will be exposed to new foods that she would have never touched at home. Yet if it’s at camp and she sees all the other campers munching on it, she’ll try it. Maybe when she comes home, she’ll try your newest dish without that scrunched up face. Camp also provides a variety of different challenges which can allow a child Montgomery Parents I March 2012

As a parent, you might not challenge your child to try something you think might be too hard or scary for her. Yet at camp, the environment is electrified with possibilities and opportunities.

to investigate new areas of interest. Depending on the type of camp your child attends, he may try archery, canoeing, survival skills, clay creations, fitness, etc. and find that he loves it. Camp activities are also designed to allow kids to take risks in trying new activities and possibly failing at them the first time. Kids learn that they can keep trying at some event to get better at it and maybe even master it. With such a competitive outside world, kids can have their own goals and see their own progress while at camp. And if a child has been to camp before, they can come to an event or a game with gained confidence because they are a little more experienced than the other campers. They “know the ropes.”

Relationship Building

Camp also can level the playing field when it comes to being “the geek or jock or shy child.” Campers may be seen as one of the gang rather than a label that they wear at home. Most activities are

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traditionally not academic so your child may shine in different games. Kids that are good musically or spatially aware or creative will have more opportunities to do well with other campers. “Camp offers a largely judgment-free environment where, for the most part, everyone dresses the same, engages in the same activities and shares common goals and values,” says Stephen Wallace, Director of Counseling and Counselor Training at Cape Cod Sea Camps. Cabin members are a team and all members are required to be responsible to their team. This is a great opportunity if you have a child that doesn’t remember to pick up her dirty clothes every day, yet her cabin needs her to be tidy for a clean cabin award. Peer pressure can be

a positive influence. And positive habits start somewhere.

Mentoring

Camp counselors have amazing amounts of energy and are a force of fun for your child. They are excited for your kid to be at camp and will provide support for him. Kids look up to counselors because normally they are the cool people of camp. Counselors seem to have a knack for having fun and can be silly in appropriate ways. Yet, they mentor kids and have a blast while doing it. “Camp counselors help young people become self-confident by helping them to establish realistic goals for achievement and to feel accepted, successful, and influential,” says Wallace. Camp is an exciting experience for kids because it’s where they can try new things and be challenged in a safe environment. They’ll make great friends while stretching themselves a bit more. mp

Jan Udlock is a freelance writer and mom of five.

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2012 Summer Camps Day and Overnight Camps • Alabama State University (334) 229-4686 or (334) 229-4317 SKYCAP 2012; Session dates: Session 1: June 11-29; Session 2: July 9-27 Grades 1-9; Half and full-day programs. Academics, computers, arts and fitness. A variety of courses to expand and peak your child’s imagination, sharpen academic skills and introduce them to physical fitness activities. • Alabama Tennis Academy presents 18th Annual Future Champ Camp Held at The Montgomery Academy for ages 6 - 9. Dates to be announced. Professional instruction plus fun games, crafts and snacks. Please call John McWilliams at 396-4253 or 202-4235. Email: jmcwill3@aol.com. • Alabama Wildlife Federation 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, 285-4550 Expedition Lanark Day Camp, Ages: 6-14 Co-ed Dates: June 4 -8, 11-15, 18-22 July 9-13, 16-20, 23-27. 6-one week sessions. Nature Navigators, ages 6-8. Get ready to experience Alabama’s water, plants, wildlife and even geology firsthand while getting down and dirty with daily nature adventures. Heritage Explorers, ages 9-11. Learn how to conserve our natural and cultural resources through fun, hands-on, and minds-on activities. Survivor Week, ages 12-14. Think you have what it takes to survive in the wild? Put yourself to the test to see what you’re really made of. Please visit us at www.alabamawildlife.org. • Art-Standing (Art Camp) The Montgomery Academy; (334) 272-8210 Rising 5th – 8th Grade

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Session 1: June 4-8 from 9 a.m. until 12p.m Fee: $100, $25 non-refundable deposit which is due at registration. Space limited to 15 participants. Early registration recommended. • AUM Youth College Rebecca Bloodworth, 244-3339 Dates: 6/18-22, 6/25-29, 7/23-27, 7/30-8/3. Length: One week sessions; Ages: Gr. K-5 - 12th. Other: AUM’s summer Youth College offers over 150 classes for grades K-12 grade taught by certified teachers. Parents/students can pick and choose individual classes to meet their needs and schedules. Classes range from art, dance, science, math, reading even fishing! Call 2443804 or visit www.aum.edu/coned for more information. • Barb’s Art Camp (334) 269-2272; Summer 2012 for children 4 and up at Barb’s “Next Door”; 2 pm – 4:15 pm; $80 for 2 days. $40 Deposit Req. with remainder due first day of camp Session 1: Ages 5-10, June 5 and 6 (Tues/Wed) Session 2: Ages 5-10, June 12 and 14 (Tues/Thurs) Session 3: Ages 6 and up – Multi Media Workshop- 3 days – June 19, 20, 21 ($120) Session 4: Ages 5-10, July 10 and 11 One Day (1 hour) Art Class for 4 year olds, $20; Tues, June 26 or Tues., July 24 at 2 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Private lessons on Thursdays at 2 p.m. for 1 hour ; $30 for one student OR $25 each for two students. Please call 269-2272 or visit our website at www.barbsonmulberry.com. Be a Barb’s Fan on Facebook. • Behind the Curtain: Technical Theatre (grades 9-12), July 23-27, Fee: $300 When directors and actors need sets, lights, sound and costumes so they can look good, who do they turn to? You! Learn from the best master theatre artists and designers in the business! For information contact Greta Lambert at the ASF Education Department at (334) 2715393 or glambert@asf.net.

• Broadway South Musical Theatre (grades 9-12), July 23-27, Fee: $300 If you’re a triple threat just waiting to happen-you need to come to camp! Sing, dance and act side by side with real live professional actors on the ASF stage. At the end of the week they might be asking you for your autograph! For information contact Greta Lambert at the ASF Education Department at (334) 271-5393 or glambert@ asf.net. • Camp AUM Rebecca Bloodworth, 244-3339 Dates: 7/9-13, Art & Movement Camp (K4 & K5), Culinary Camp (grades 1-5) and Drama Camp (grades 4-9); 7/16-20, Animal Adventure Camp (K4 & K5), Vet Camp (grades 1-5), and Technology Camp (grades 4-9); 8/6-10, Kinder College (K5) and Back to School Bash (grades 1-5). Camp AUM provides theme based camps for K4-9 graders taught by certified teachers. K4 and K5 camps are half day (9:00-12:00). Full day camps (9:003:00)are offered for grades 1-9. Youth Preview Night is Tuesday, April 24 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at AUM’s Center for Lifelong Learning located at 75 Techna Center Drive. Preview night is FREE and a great way to see what all AUM offers, meet our instructors, receive detailed information and discount on our programs. Call 244-3804 or visit www.aum.edu/coned. • Camp Eagle at Montgomery Academy Call 270-0183. Dates: June 18-22, June 25-29, July 9-13 and July 16-29, from 8:30-3:00. Length: Four 1 week full day sessions for grades 1-6. Fee is $150 per session. Other: Each week has a different focus. Includes sports instruction, artwork, music, computer games, & more. www.mont-acad.pvt.k12.al.us • Camp Grandview — YMCA Shaun Carroll, 285-5381; Dates: May 29-August 10. Length: Weekly basis; Ages: 5-15 Other: Camp Grandview in Millbrook is a YMCA day

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camp for 5 to 15-year-olds, with pickup points at YMCA branches in Montgomery: East, Southeast the Soccer Branch, and the Goodtimes Center. Activities include horseback riding, water-balloon wars, nature, archery, swimming, sports and games, arts and crafts, canoeing, paddle boats, fishing, and archery. Friday is a special themed day camp-wide. The camp is located on 40 acres and has a six-acre lake and two miles of trails. The average age for counselors at Camp Grandview is 21. All are trained in CPR and first aid. Fees include lunch every day. Cost members $90/session; nonmembers $115/session. $10 discount for additional children. www. ymcamontgomery.org • Camp Invention Bear Exploration Center, Dates: 6/12 to 6/15 from 8:00 to 4:00; Cost: $215. A day at the Camp Invention program is packed with hands-on activities, brainstorming, experimentation, and unbelievable action! Please visit www. invent.org or email us at campinvention@invent.org. • Camp Shakespeare Call 271-5345. Two 1-week sessions: 7/9 – 7/13 and 7/16 – 7/20; Age: Completed Grades 4-6 Work with real New York based actors as you learn to act, move and cross swords like the pros. You don’t know what cool is until you can sound like a Shakespearean actor! Cost: $300. Registration forms are available online at www.asf.net (education link). For info contact Greta Lambert at the ASF Education Department at (334) 271-5393 or glambert@asf.net. • Camp Shakespeare Extreme Grades 7-12, $300 for the week. One Week Only. June 25-29, It’s Camp Shakespeare but-extreme. Dig deeper into your character, move effortlessly around the stage, learn to project and enunciate! Don’t worry what enunciate means? You will when everyone is hanging on every word during your monologue. For info

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

• Camp Sunshine for Boys 262-2697; July 16-20; Boys Age: 6-10. Other: Outreach program for less advantaged youth with a variety of outdoor activities. No cost but invitation only camp; may call for application.

• Corks & Canvas Summer Camp Peppertree Shopping Center. Vaughn Rd., Caroline Clark, 277-1041. Classes for children 8 and up. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m. Snack included. Cost: $30/per individual session or 4 session for $100. Register in advance online or by phone. To see the featured painting, please visit our website at www.corksandcanvas.net.

• Camp Sunshine for Girls 272-9164. Dates: June 11-15 Length: One week; Age: 7-10 Other: A five-day camp for girls from lower socioeconomic areas with one day at Camp Kiwanis. No cost to campers; call for application form.

• Cub Camp Larry Colletta, 800-977-2688 Session 1: June 2-3; Session 2: June 6-10 Scout Registration (includes all meals, activities, t-shirt and patch) is $60.00 per scout. Please visit http://www. tukabatcheebsa.org for more information.

• Camp Tukabatchee Larry Colletta, 800-977-2688 Day and resident camps. Ages: By scout rank. Week 1: June 10-16, Week 2: June 17-23, Week 3: June 24-30 and Week 4: July 1-7; Cost: $240.00 for one week. Other: Boy Scout Camp. Emphasizing outdoor skills and leadership development. Week long experience with swimming, hiking, canoeing and other outdoor skills. www.camptuk.org or www.tukabatcheebsa.org

• Cub Scout Webelos Resident Camp, Camp Hobbs; Tim Killough, 800-977-2688 June 14-17 or June 21-24 and July 5-8 ; Cost: $95.00; ($115.00 if submitted after May 18th) www.tukabatcheebsa.org

contact Greta Lambert at the ASF at (334) 271-5393 or glambert@asf.net.

• Centre’ for Performing Arts (Prattville) Dance Classes: Month of July, Creative Movement, Ballet, Tapp, Jazz, Lyrical and Gymnastics. Competition team tryout in the month of July. Ages 2 and up. Call 491-1192 or www.centreforperformingarts.com. • C.J.’s Dance Factory 334.467.8603 Summer Dance Classes Begin Thursday June 21st Every Thursday; *Pre Dance 3-5 year olds 2:00 *Ballet Technique and pointe 3:15-4:30 *Power Tumble (Beg/ Intermed. / Adv.) 4:30 *JAZZ 5:30; Summer Dance Performances in each class.

• Fort Faith/Brigadoon Retreat Center 298 Union Academy, Ramer, Alabama Please call 1-888-228-7163, ext. 210 All ages; Open year round. Hire facility out to churches for Summer Camps. Activities: canoeing, paintballs, volleyball, ping pong, foosball, video games, game room, swimming pool, climbing wall, Lake Blob, archery and much much more. Y-Fi available. Visit our website for more information: www.brigadooninfo.com or email camp@fortfaith.org. • Green Gate School 3265 McGehee Rd.; Contact Yvonna Richardson, 2813300; Theme: “PLANET EARTH”; Ages 12 months-12 years half day, full day, or flexible rates and hours available., Campers will have LEARN, EXPLORE, GOOGLE and “ DISCOVER PLANET EARTH” the

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place we call home. WE PROMISE YOU WILL NOT HEAR YOUR CHILDREN SAY “I am bored at camp !” and “We do the same stuff everyday!” This is an exciting way for your child to spend the summer building a giant solar system, designing and making “statement” tee shirts, discovering the foods cooking and sampling while learning customs of other countries. We will also learn to value PLANET EARTH and why it is so important we make efforts to save our planet by learning the values of reusing and recycling. Campers will enjoy visits from animals around the world brought in by our own Montgomery Zoo. Each week a special visit from a magician, or a puppet show who knows. Our certified elementary teachers lead spelling bees and math bingo games. We build writing skills by encouraging campers to journal. Campers enjoy our vintage game room with foosball, ping-pong, to name a few. Call Yvonna Richardson at 281-3300 today for registration information so your campers can “DISCOVER PLANET EARTH”. • Junior Piano Camp Carrie Edwards, 833-4457 Dates: July 9-13 ; Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. until 12:30. Please call for more information. Open to intermediate and advanced students in ages 7-12. Students will attend courses in performance, music history, music theory, ear training, and the history of piano literature each day. music@huntingdon.edu. • Kinder Camp Eagle at Montgomery Academy Call 270-0183; Dates: 7/23 - 7/27 Times: 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Half days for one week; Age: Gr. K. Fee is $95.00. Other: Designed for children who will be 5 by Sept. 1st and going into kindergarten, to explore science, art and music. Visit www.montgomeryacademy.org • Majorette, Baton, and Dance Studio of Prattville Every Tuesday in June; Ages 3-16 Students will learn baton, dance team, ribbon team, rifle twirling, and flags in a Christian learning environment. Participate in parades and recitals. Cost is $62 for the session with a $20 registration. Space limited. Registration begins in April and runs through May. Call Inga Yarboro 361-0563 for more information or to register. Taught by Majorettes Baton Twirling Studio in Prattville. • Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts With summer quickly approaching, the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is offering summer camp sessions for children ages six to 13. There is a camp schedule designed for everyone with week-long, half-day, and full-day options. Summer camp takes place during four weeks throughout the summer. The dates for camp are: June 25 through 29; July 9 through 13; July 23 through 27; and July 3- through August 3; 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Camp is designed with working parents in mind so extended hours are available with an early drop off at 7:45 a.m. and late pick up at 5:30 p.m. for an additional $50. The cost of the half-day camp is $120 for members and $180 for non-members. Full-day camp is $210 for members and $270 for non-members. These fun filled camps offer small group lessons in drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, and printmaking. Each camp offers different themes, art activities, and techniques, so students are encouraged to sign up for more than one week! Famous works of art in the Museum’s permanent collection will inspire projects, and students will explore many different media, such as clay modeling, mixed media sculpture, acrylic painting, watercolors, colored pencils, pastels, charcoal, pen & ink, printmaking, etc. Camp fee includes snacks and all materials used in the art making. Full day students must bring their own lunch. For more information, call the MMFA at 334.240.4333 or visit the website at www.mmfa.org. • Montgomery Zoo “Zoo Camp”--Jennifer Murphy, 240-4900 Dates: half days for 5-6 yr old, 7/23-7/27, 7/30 -8/3;

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half day for 7-8 yr olds, 7/9 -7/13, full day 7-8 yr old 7/16 – 7/20; half day for 9-10 yr old, 6/18 – 6/22, full day for 9-10 yr old, 6/25 -6/29; full day for 11-12 yr old, 6/11 -6/15. Ages 5 - 12 (each week is for specific ages). Cost: Non- members; $170 for full day, $150 half day. Members; $153 for full day and $135for half day. Full day includes lunch and two snacks; one snack for halfday. Can include scavenger hunts, classroom educational tie, play time at the playground, live animal presentations, guest speakers, arts and crafts, games, behind the scene tours, keeper talks, museum tours, pedal boat rides, animals feedings (giraffe and deer), realm projects and much more. Monday, Desert/Savannah; Tuesday, Arctic/Tundra; Wednesday, Jungle/Rainforest; Thursday, Oceans/ Rivers; and Friday, Forest/Tiaga. • Prattville Dept. of Leisure Summer Youth Program Weekly Field Trips, Games, Crafts and Swimming Begins May 29th until the Friday before school starts, 7a.m. until 6 p.m. ; Ages 5 going into K-6th grade. Registration begins April 1st at the Doster Center. Parent Orientation: May 21 and 22nd at 6 p.m. . Registration Fee – Non-refundable $75 per child; $70/week or $20/ day. Call for Information - 361-3640 • Prattville’s Performing and Visual Arts Camp *MUSIC *ART *DANCE *DRAMA Two Week Long Camps for ages 4-6, 7-9, and 10-UP June 11-15 “ON BROADWAY’ and JULY 16-20 9:00am-12:00. For information call: 334.361.0554. • St. Bede Summer Camp 3870 Atlanta Highway (Child Development Center) 334-277-8551, Dates: TBA Times: 7 a.m. until 5:45 p.m. Ages: 5-13 years. Each week has its own theme with activities that correlate with that theme. Cost: $100 per week with a non-refundable registration fee of $70. • Stringfellows Helen Steineker, 240-4004; June 17-23. Week long camp. Fee: $325 and partial scholarships available. Includes registration, room, board, snacks, meals, fees, t-shirt and other activities. For stringed instrument players in junior high school. Seven-day residential music camp held at Huntingdon College and sponsored by the Montgomery Symphony. Seminar/camp includes daily orchestra rehearsals, chamber music, music theory and history classes. Full range of social opportunities. Visit www. montgomerysymphony.org for applications. • United Gymstars & Cheer Camp Call 284-2244; 10 week Summer Camp, Weekly themed activities, gymnastics, trampoline, rope climbing, crafts and more. Beginning June 4 through beginning of August ; Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 5 – 12 years of age. Half Day offered for 3 and 4 year olds. Call for rates. • Weekend Warrior Camp (grades 7-12), July 20 (6-9 p.m.) and 21 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) Fee: $150 (Only $100 with any other camp) Do you want to learn to fight without killing or maiming someone? Your personal fight master will teach you the secrets of hand to hand combat techniques as well as the use of various weapons. Best of all--at the end of the weekend--everybody lives—guaranteed. For info contact Greta at ASF at (334) 271-5393 or glambert@asf.net. • YMCA Cleveland Branch Call 265-0566. Dates: June 11-Aug. 17 Summer adventure; Ages 3-12 years. • YMCA East Branch Call 272-3390. Dates: June 11 – Aug. 17 Goodtimes program offered. Includes themed weeks, swimming, field trips, indoor and outdoor pool with slides. • YMCA Goodtimes Call 279-8833; Dates: June 11 – Aug 17 Excellent facilities which include a cooperative summer

academic enrichment program taught by certified teachers. The facility also includes a teaching pool, indoor gym, inflatables and a water park. • YMCA Sports Central Call 262-6411; Dates: June 11 – Aug 17 Sports Central is the perfect place for children to improve their sports skills. Facility includes a youth fitness center, 2 gyms and a swimming pool. • YMCA Belser Call 279-8833; Dates: June 11 – Aug 17 Stretch your child’s imagination away from video games and television in a true outdoor day camp experience. Facility includes a gym, outdoor pool, archery range, riflery range and a nature trail. • YMCA Junior High Teen Leadership Program Call 279-8833; Dates: June 11 – Aug 17 A new program designed to teach teens leadership skills. Teens will be involved in enrichment activities for the younger campers, service projects, fun excursions, a camp day with other YMCA Leadership Leagues and a trip to North Carolina to participate in the Junior High Christian Values Conference. • YMCA Kershaw Call 265-1433, Summer Camp Dates: June 11 – August 17; Ages 5 – 15. Call for cost and registration details. • YMCA Prattville Smith Branch, 365-8852 East Bradford Branch, 358-9622 Main Day Camp, girls and boys ages 6-12. An outdoor program. Registration Date April 19th at 8 a.m. Bradford East YMCA. Begins May 29th – August 10. Mon. - Fri. Before and after care available at no extra charge. Must be picked up by 5:45. For more members only. For more information please call Betty Estes, 358-1446. • Daniel Pratt Camp Daniel Pratt School. Dates and ages the same as above. For members and non-members. Registration Date April 19th at 8 a.m. Bradford East YMCA. Begins May 29th –August 10 school starts. Mon. - Fri. • Pine Level Summer Camp Pine Level School. Dates and ages the same as above. For members and non-members. Registration Date April 19th at 8 a.m. Bradford East YMCA. Begins May 29th – August 10. Mon. - Fri. • Cheer Camp Grades 1-12, boys and girls; May 29-June 1; Times 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.; Please call for pricing. Call Bambi at 365-8852 for more information. Discount for multiple sign ups. • Gymnastics Camp May 29-June 1, Ages 6-18; Times 9 a.m. through noon; Please call for pricing. Includes t-shirt and camp refreshments. Call Bambi at 365-8852. If you choose to do both a discount will be offered. • East Bradford Branch – 358-9622 Sport Camps, Mon.-Thurs, 9 a.m. - Noon Girls basketball- TBA April 1st Soccer Camp, TBA April 1st Golf Camp-TBA April 1st Tennis Camp-TBA April 1st Boys basketball, TBA April 1st Fishing Camp-TBA April 1st Wrestling Camp-TBA April 1st Girls Volleyball, TBA April 1st Please call for pricing. Pricing is based on how many camps signed up for. Discounts are given for multiple camps and for multiple children in family. 2-22 Camp is a program for rising seventh thru ninth graders. Members ONLY. Registration is the beginning of March. The camp will cover character development, life skills, job skills, service learning and have activities such as board games, gym games, community service and field trips. Begins 1st day of school being out. Call Jeffery at 358-9622 for more information.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

• YMCA Southeast Branch Call 262-6411 Summer Camp Dates: June 11 – August 17; Ages 5 – 15. Please call for cost and registration details. • YMCA Wetumpka Call 567-8282; Day camp, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. June 4 until beginning of school in August. Swimming, crafts, games, outdoor sports, field trips. Themed weeks. Entire day is planned. Call to register. Call for rates.

Alabama Residential Camps • Alpine Camp for Boys P. O. Box 297, Mentone, AL 35984, (256)634-4404 Website: www.alpinecamp.com email: summer@alpinecamp.com Call for CD-ROM with video Junior Camp: (Grades 1-5) July 28-Aug. 7, $2,300.00; (Grades 2-9) First Term: June 2 to June 27- $4,275.00; (Grades 2-9) Second Term: June 30 to July 25 $4,275.00; Other: ACA accredited. Christian camp offering a well-rounded camping experience. • Birmingham YMCA - Camp Cosby Alpine, AL, (800) 852-6729 Eight different sessions ranging in many different age groups. Camp dates begin on Sunday, June 3rd and end on July 28. Ages 6-16. Other: ACA accredited. Water skiing specialty camp, equestrian camp, mini-bikes, climbing and so much more. Please visit our website for all ages, sessions, dates and prices. Many to choose from. Costs ranging from $395 to $895 depending on camp and session. www.campcosby.org; E-mail: cinfo@campcosby.org • Camp Alamisco Dadeville, AL 256-825-9482 (call for free brochure); Adventure Camp, June 3-9, ages 7-9. Junior Camp, June 10-16, ages 10-12. Teen Camp, June 17-23, ages 13-16. Fees: $300 per week. Some discounts offered. Camp fees cover your lodging, food, and activities (there will be an extra charge for some creative arts projects Other: ACA accredited. Traditional camp activities including water sports, horsemanship, and climbing wall, plus program for advanced campers. Located on beautiful Lake Martin near Stillwater. www.gscsda.org • Camp Chandler - YMCA Jeff Reynolds, Program Director, 269-4362 Rangers (8-14 Year Olds) Session 1 June 17-23; Session 2 June 24-30; Session 3 July 8-14; Session 4 July 15-21; Session 5 July 22-28; Session 6 July 29-August 4. Members $530 and Non-Members $580. Scouts (5-8 Year Olds) Session 1 June 17-19; Session 2 July 15-17; Session 3 July 29-31. Members $230 and Non-Members $255 Explorer Program (7-9 Year Olds) Session 1 June 13-16; Session 2 July 18-21; Session 3 August 1-4. Members $285 and Non-Members $315 Pioneers (13-14 year olds) Sessions 1 June 24-30; Session 2 July 15-21; Session 3 July 29-August 4. Members $680 and Non-member $730 Wranglers (10-14 years old) Session 1 June 17-23; Session 2 June 24-30; Session 3 July 8-14; Session 4 July 15-21; Session 5 July 22-28; Session 6 July 29-August 4. Members $630 Non-members $680 Extreme (10-14 Year Olds) Session 1 June 17-23; Session 2 June 24-30; Session 3 July 8-14; Session 4 July 15-21; Session 5 July 22-28; Session 6 July 29-August 4. Members $630 and NonMembers $680 Fishing Camp (10-14 Year Olds) Session 1 June 17-23; Session 2 July 8-14; Session 3 July

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

22-28. Members $630 and Non-Members $680 Leaders in Training (LITs-15 yrs) Session 1 June 10-30; Session 2 July 8-28; Cost: Members $530 and Non-Members $580 Ski Venture (10-14 Year Olds) Session 1 June 17-23; Session 2 June 24-30; Session 3 July 8-14; Session 4 July 15-21; Session 5 July 22-28; Session 6 July 29-August 4. Cost: Members $630 and Non-Members $680 Website: http://www.campchandler.org/ Email: staff@campchandler.org • Camp Coleman, Trussville, AL (205) 655-3782 or 1-800-734-4541 ; Dates: 6/4-July 27; length: 1 week; Age: Girls Gr. K-12 Spots filling up quickly. Please visit our website. Resident open house March 25, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Other: ACA accredited. Traditional Girl Scout camp program with specialties available. Website http://www.girlscoutsnca. org/coleman.php. lelliot@girlscoutsnca.org • Camp Cottaquilla, Anniston, AL Call (256) 29509082 or 800-734-4541 Dates: June 4-8 and June 11-15 day camp (5-12 year olds); June 4-8 and June 11-15 Resident camp (Ages 6-14). Open House is April 21 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m Other: ACA accredited. Swimming, paddleboats, canoes, hiking and nature exploration, cook-outs, campfires, songs, sports and games, arts and crafts and skits. Optional special programs. There is the opportunity for Counselors in Training, 11th and 12th grades in the fall. Website: www.girlscoutsnca.org Email: bgable@girlscoutsnca.org • Camp Kiwanis 272-9164; Dates: TBA. Length and Grades: 2nd-12th grade. Other: Girl Scout Camp with a variety of fun land and water activities. Emphasizes team-work and leadership. Counselor-In-Training for Girls Grades 10-12. Red Cross Swimming lessons, archery, sailing, canoeing, and crafts. With a variety of programs. www.girlscoutssa.org • Camp Laney, Mentone, AL Call 1-256-634-4066 or 4067 Length: 1 & 2 week; Age: Boys 8-14 Junior Camp – Boys finishing 2nd grade only. Session A: June 24-30; $1,165; 2 week sessions – Boys (completed second grade-14); 1st session: June 10-22; $2,350 2nd session: June 24- July 6; $2,350; 3rd session: July 8-20; $2,350; 4th session: July 22-August 3; $2,350 Other: ACA accredited. www.camplaney.com Email: info@camplaney.com • Camp Mac Summer Camp for Boys and Girls 2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, Alabama (256) 362-7449; Ages: 2nd grade – 9th grade; Dates: Junior Term (2nd-5th) 5/29-6/9 ($1975); 1st Senior Term (3rd – 9th grade) 6/11 – 7/7; $3300; 1st Intermediate session – (3rd – 5th grade) 6/11 – 6/30 ($2850); Second Senior Term (3rd-9th) 7/10-Aug. 4 ($3100); and 2nd Intermediate Session (3rd-5th) 7/10– 7/28; ($2850) With the benefit of three generations of summer camping experience, we have developed a unique program which is both fun and challenging. The many details of this plan work together toward our primary goal–to help develop strong bodies, keen minds and strength of character through a dedication to Judeao-Christian values. Email office@campmac.com or visit www.campmac.com. • Camp Marannook 334.864.7504; www.marannook.com Lafayette, Al. From sunrise to after sunset, every camp day is packed with fun. Campers will swim, shoot archery, make crafts, eat s’mores around the campfire, and play games on the game field. They explore a huge maze, ride the cable car and crazy swing and are challenged by various rope and climbing activities. And there is a one-of-a-kind Bible Time with skits and drama. When the campers arrive, the counselors are ready to

build relationships and to share the love of Christ through these relationships. June 10-Aug. 3; 1st – 9th graders; Residential and Day Camps. • Camp Skyline Ranch Mentone, AL. Call (800) 448-9279; Dates: 6/5 -7/29 Length: Four 2 wk. sessions, for girls ages 6-16; Three 1 wk. Sessions for girls ages 6-8. Other: ACA accredited. Member of Christian Camping International. Choice of 20 camp activities including horseback riding, circus, ropes course, canoeing and more. Limited enrollment. Located on top of Lookout Mountain. Founded in 1947. Adventure and fellowship in a safe environment. Rates and discounts: One week minisessions $1,520. Two-week session $2,835. Website: www.campskyline.com. Email: nfo@campskyline.com • Camp Trico, Guntersville, AL Call 800-734-4541 Open House: Sunday, April 10, 2011, 2-4 p.m. Resident camp for girls, ages 6-16. Dates: June 4-8, June 11-15, June 18-22, June 25-29, July 23-25, July 23-27, July 25-27 and July 30-August 3. Camp Leadership programs available. Please visit us at http://girlscoutsnca.org or email Aimee Canterbury at acanterbury@ girlscoutsnca.org. • Camp Victory, Samson, AL Call (334) 898-7948 Dates: Weekly sessions, May 27 – July 28; Ages: grades 3 – 12; coed camp. Air conditioned cabins. Activities include Bible Classes, Singing, Missionary Presentations, Volleyball, Riflery, Horseback Riding, Ping-Pong, Swimming Pool, Tetherball, Good Food, Archery, Mini Golf, Canoeing, Basketball, Foosball, Crafts, Carpet ball, Outdoor Education, Boating, Fishing, Tournaments, Low Ropes Challenge Course and New Climbing Wall Trained Christian staff who live in cabins with campers; evening chapel. Affiliated with the Children’s Bible Mission. Rates: $210 per week. www.campvictoryal.org Email: office@campvictoryal.org • Kanawahala Program Center, Chelsea, AL 205-678-8843 or 800-734-4541 Owned and operated by Cahaba Girl Scout Council. June 25- July 27 resident camp; Length: 1 weeks with some smaller sessions available; Age: Girls, Gr. K-12 Other: Rope course and climbing. Resident and day camp programs offered. Open house April 15, 2-4 p.m. Please call for more information. Website http://www.girlscoutsnca.org, E-mail: tknowles@girlscoutnca.org • Museum Expedition Archaeology Camp 34 Tuscaloosa, AL Phone: (205) 348-7550 E-mail: museum.expedition@ua.edu Discover Alabama’s diverse natural history by participating in the 34th Annual Museum Expedition Camp! Participants will have the fun and unique opportunity to work with scientists in the field of archaeology as part of actual scientific research to examine Alabama’s intriguing natural heritage. Students, teachers, and adults will spend a week at the Expedition field camp working with scientists to learn excavation techniques, laboratory procedures, and specimen identification. The Museum Expedition combines real exploration, with real science to create a unique experience and lasting friendships. THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY SUMMER CAMP! Middle School Camp (6th, 7th, 8th grade) – June 11 – 16 High School Camp (9th, 10th, 11th, 12th grade) – June 18 -23 Public Archaeology Camp (ages 14 to adult) – June 25-30. Course Credit: Students can earn elective high school credit through advance arrangements with their school and the Expedition staff. Teachers can earn University of Alabama continuing education units or professional development hours. Registration: Space is limited to 20 participants, so

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contact us soon to reserve your spot. To register for the program, please complete a registration form (click and print the document below) and return it along with a $50 deposit to reserve a space to participate in the Museum Expedition 3. Cost: Program tuition is $350 per week ($325 for Museum Members). Accomodations, food, and scientific equipment will be provided; a detailed list of what to bring is included in the registration packet. For more information or to become a member of the Museum, call 348-7550. Website: http://amnh.ua.edu • Ponderosa Bible Camp, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4397; Dates: 6/10- 7/13; Length: One week; Ages: 7-17 and Leadership Training Program for 11th and 12th graders; Other: ACA accredited. For a Blast and a Blessing! Members of CCI. Co-ed camp for boys and girls ages 7-17. Website: www.ponderosabiblecamp.com Email: ponderosabible@pkfamily.com

Regional/National Camps • Adventure Treks (Blue Ridge, North West, Colorado, Utah, California, British Columbia and New England) Call (888) 954-5555. Each 16–29 day Adventure includes a wide variety of exciting wilderness activities such as rock climbing, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, mountain biking, canoeing, mountaineering, and backpacking in some of the most breathtaking scenery in western Age: 12-19. Other: Designed to teach teamwork, self responsibility, community living, and outdoor skills while building self-confidence. Website: www.adventuretreks. com; E-mail: info@adventuretreks.com. • Athens YWCO Camp for Girls Clarkesville, GA, (706) 754-8528: Three 1 week sessions 6/18-6/23, 6/25 – 6/30, 7/9–7/14, ($690 early bird registration) Three 2 week sessions 6/4 – 6/16, 6/18 – 6/30, 7/2 – 7/14, ($1,240 early bird registration) Horseback Specialty Camp: ages 10-15, Dates: 6/4- 6/16, 6/18-6/30, 7/2-7/14 ($1,490 early bird registration) CIT Leadership Program: 6/3-6/23, 6/24-7/14 Length: 1-2 weeks. Girls ages 6-16 Other: ACA accredited. Horseback riding, Basketball, drama, dance, creative arts, hiking and backpacking. Tennis & golf packages available. White water rafting available. www.athensywcocamp.com or email us at info@athenywcocamp.com. • Broadreach Raleigh, NC; (888) 833-1907; Dates: 6/16-8/16 Length: 14-27 days; Grades 7-12+ Other: Adventure programs in Africa and Egypt, Asia, Australia and Pacific, Caribbean, Central America, Europe, North America and South America. Cost: $3,480 to $6,780 Sailing, scuba, rafting, rain forest exploration, marine biology, sea kayaking, back country hiking, international travel and more. Website: www.gobroadreach.com. Email: info@gobroadreach.com • Camp Cheerio Glade Valley, NC; (336) 363-2604; (800)226-7496; Ages: 7-15; Dates: 6/3- 8/17 One week and two week sessions. 8 total sessions available. Rates: Depending on which session you choose prices range from $795 -$1750. During the three weeks of girls camp or the five weeks of coed camp, Cheerio offers campers the chance to participate in over 35 different activities that help them explore and develop their potential and their lives as young Christians in an environment that is safe and supportive. Camp Cheerio Extreme: Ages 10-15; Dates: June 10 – August 11; Two week sessions. 4 total sessions available. Rates $1750. The EXTREME experience is a combination of Traditional Camp and Cheerio Adventures. Other: ACA accredited. Please visit website for rates, dates and

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

registration information at www.campcheerio.org. Email: cheerio@aol.com • Camp Dixie, Clayton, GA (706) 782-3717; Length: 1, 2 , 3, 4, 6, 7 & 8 weeks; Ages 6-15 Dates: 6/3-7/28 Rates: Range from $745 to $5495 depending on which session you choose. Other: Traditional camp activities w/ limited enrollment, including horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, and overnights. Website: www.campdixie.org . E-mail: info@ campdixie.org • Camp Gwynn Valley Brevard, NC; (828) 885-2900; Dates: 6/8 – 8/12 Rates ranging from $1425 - $3350; Length: 8 Days to 3 weeks; Age: Gr. K-8th Other: ACA accredited. Located in Blue Ridge Mts with focus on creative and nature-oriented activities, with working farm and grist mill. Website: www.gwynnvalley.com. Email: mail@gwynnvalley.com • Camp Hollymont for Girls Asheville, NC; (828) 686-5343; Dates: 6/17 – 8/10 Length: 6,13 or 27 days; Age: Girls 6-15 Christian girls camp located in the mountains of Western North Carolina just outside of Ashville. Other: ACA accredited. Wide variety of recreational opportunities including arts & crafts, horseback riding, tennis, swimming, cooking, high adventure trips & much more. Basic Camp Fee: $1520 for 6 days, $2840 for 13 days and $5600 for 27 days Website: www.hollymont. com. E-mail 4info@hollymont.com • Camp Juliette Low Cloudland, GA; (770) 428-1062 Dates: 6/3 – 7/28; Length: 1, 2, & 3 weeks; Age: Girls age 7 through 17 Other: ACA accredited. Traditional camp activities with

emphasis in (teaching) self-worth and a spirit of independence. Rates: 1 week for $730, 2 weeks for $ 1425 and CIT Three week program for $1075. Website: www.cjl.org. Email: info@cjl.org • Camp Merri-Mac Black Mountain, NC; (828) 669-8766; Dates: 6/10-8/11; Length:1 (starter camp for first time campers only), 2, 3, 4, & 5 weeks; Rates: 1 week session $1,200, 2 week session $2750; 3 week session $3750; 4 week session $4750; and 5 week session $5300; Age: Girls 6-16; Other: ACA accredited. Offers a fun-filled growing experience with an outstanding staff and riding program. Website: www.merri-mac.com. Email: info@merri-mac.com • Camp Sea Gull and Camp Seafarer Arapahoe, North Carolina Call (252) 249-1111 or (252) 249-1212; Dates: 6/10 – 8/10; Length: 1, 2, & 4 week session; Ages: 6-16 Cost: Ranging from $959 to $4997 Other: ACA accredited. Nationally recognized sailing and motor boating program as well as all traditional camp activities. Website: www.seagull-seafarer.org . Email: webmaster@seagull-seafarer.org • Camp Stanislaus Bay St. Louis, MS; (228)467-9057; Boarding camp. Dates: 6/17 – 7/14; Rates $650 - $2300 for Residential Length: 1, 2, 3 and 4 week sessions; Ages: boys 8-15. Other: A fun camp revolving around water activities and more. On the beach. Driver’s Ed and scuba offered. Website: www.campstanislaus.com Email:camp@ststan.com • Camp Timberlake Black Mountain, NC; (828) 669-8767; Dates: 6/10-8/11; Length:1 (starter camp for first time campers), 2, 3, 4, & 5 weeks; Age: Boys 6-16; Rates:$1200 for starter camp,

KIDS/YOUTH

SKYCAP COLLEGE ADVENTURE PROGRAM

$2750 for two weeks, $3750 for three weeks, $4750 for four weeks and $5300 for five weeks. Other: ACA accredited. Offers a fun-filled growing experience w/ wilderness program. Christian leadership. Website: www. camptimberlake.com. Email: info@camptimberlake.com • Camp Woodmont Cloudland, GA; 706-398-0833 Dates: 6/3-7/27: Five –one week sessions and Three-2 week sessions. Summer Camp for Boys and Girls 6 14. ACA accredited. Traditional activities - swimming, horseback riding, archery, sports, arts & crafts, drama/ dance, cheerleading, nature activities, canoeing, fishing, hiking, challenge course, climbing wall, and more. Limited enrollment, caring counselors and close family-like atmosphere makes campers feel secure, welcomed and re-assured. Cabin living atop breezy Lookout Mountain. Two generations of family management. Extremely close supervision of campers, staff, and activities. One and twoweek sessions. Call or visit www.campwoodmont.com. • Eagle’s Nest Camp (a division of Eagle’s Nest Foundation) Call (828) 877-4349; Summer address: 43 Hart Road, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768; (828-884-2788) Winter address: P.O. Box 5127, Winston-Salem, NC 27113; (336-761-1040) Dates 6/9– 8/12; Length: 8, 14 and 20 day sessions; Grades: K-9th . Other: Traditional activities with added adventure and extended wilderness options. Rock climbing, backpacking, white water canoeing, arts & crafts, horseback riding, drama, music and athletics. Website: www.enf.org. E-mail: promotions@enf.org • Experiment in International Living (800) 345-2929. Motivated high school students engage in cross-cultural living as members of host families in Africa, Asia, Pacific, the Americas and Europe. Must have completed 9th grade. 3, 4 or 5 week programs. Foreign

Alabama State University offers this unique opportunity for elementary through high school students to learn, grow and have fun over the summer! Choose from classes in Academics, the Arts, Personal Computing, Sports and Recreation and more.

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language studies a prerequisite for most sessions. Please visit our website for more information, session dates and rates at www.usexperiment.org • Falling Creek Camp for Boys Tuxedo, NC; (828) 692-0262 Boys Camp, ages: 6-16; 1 week sessions to 4 week sessions; Camp Dates: 6/3– 8/10; Rates: One week session, $1225; Two-week session, $2775; Three-week session, $3925 and Four-week session, $4850. Other: Wilderness adventure camp. Includes archery, riflery, sailing, riding and much more. Website: http://www.fallingcreek.com. E-mail: mail@fallingcreek.com • Moondance Adventures Atlanta, GA; (800) 832-5229 Dates: 6/17 - 8/2; Length: 14,18, 21, and 24 days; Age: 12-18. Other: Includes backpacking, rafting, canoeing, surfing, mountaineering, scuba, and climbing in California, Colorado, Yosemite, Wyoming, Pacific Northwest, Alaska, Kilimanjaro, Alps, Washington state, plus much more. Call or email for prices or to request a catalog. Website: www.moondanceadventures.com. Email: getinfo@moondanceadventures.com • North Carolina Outward Bound Asheville, NC; toll-free 888-75-NCOBS Dates: Year Round Programs; Length: 4-78 days; Age: 14 and up; Other: North Carolina Outward Bound offers wilderness leadership courses in backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, whitewater canoeing, sea kayaking and mountaineering for teens and adults. Website: www. ncoutwardbound.com. E-mail: challenge@ncobs.org • Riverview Camp for Girls Mentone, AL; (800) 882-0722 Dates: Short Term – (ages 6-16) 6/3-6/8, (ages 6-12) 6/10-6/15, 6/17-6/22, 6/24-6/29, 7/1-7/6, 7/22-7/27, 7/29-

8/3; Cost: $1,275. Long Term – (ages 6-16) 6/10-6/22, 6/24-7/6, 7/8-7/20, 7/22-8/3; Cost: $2375.00. Other: ACA accredited. Free video and catalog. Nondenominational Christian camp. More than 15 activity choices available, including riding, climbing tower and ropes course. New pool and new tennis courts. www.riverviewcamp.com • Sail Caribbean Northport, NY; (800) 321-0994; Length: Programs range from 10 to 21 days Grades 6th – 12th.; Other: Activities include sailing the Caribbean plus courses in scuba, and marine biology. Many sessions available. Please check with website on dates and rates for each program. Website: www.sailcaribbean.com Email: mike@sailcaribbean.com • Trailmark Outdoor Adventures (800) 831-1273; Dates: 7/1- 8/11 ; Ages 11-16. Adventure travel suited as a post-camp experience. Travel to New England, Colorado, Adirondacks, Quebec and the Northern Rockies on a 6,7 or 14 day session. Coed. Website: www.trailmark.com. Email: info@trailmark.com • Twin Lakes Camp Florence, Mississippi; 601-845-6858 5-Sessions: Session 1: June 4-9; Session 2: June 11-16; Session 3: July 2-7; Session 4: July 9-14; Session 5: July 16-21. Overnight camps for ages 6-12. Monday thru Saturdays. Biblical teachings are woven into a week filled with exciting adventures waiting around every corner. Twin Lakes is located on waterfront property and offers Sling Shot Paintball, Challenge Course, Dirt Biking, Swimming, Horses, Riflery and Archery, Rock climbing, Super fun games and Wild Wilderness Adventures. Please visit us at www.twinlakescamp.org or call us at (601) 845-6858.

• YMCA Camp Ocoee Ocoee, TN; (423) 338-5538; Dates: 6/3 – 8/4 Rates: $565 to $1060 ; Ages: Ranger 7-15; Teen Leadership and Specialty Camps, 16-17. Other: ACA accredited. Kayaking, climbing, water-skiing and more. Special Appalachian field trip. Strong Christian emphasis. Website: www.campocoee.com. E-mail: ocoee@ix.netcom.com

Academic • All Arts & Sciences Camp Greensboro, NC; (866) 334-2255 July 22-27; Rates: $399 - $749, depending on which session and boarding or not; Age: 7-15. Other: Emphasis on arts and sciences. Includes recreation, values exploration and citizenship components. Web site: http://allarts.uncg. edu; E-mail: allarts@uncg.edu • Art Standing Painting Class At the Montgomery Academy This class is for students who would like to explore a variety of painting techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to paint on paper and canvas, while each project will focus on different subjects. Session 1: Rising 5th – 8th grade, June 4-8 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. Total camp fee per session is $100; Vaughn Road Campus • Churchill Academy Lisa Schroeder, 270-4225 Tutoring available for summer. Grades K-12. One-on-one tutoring. Call for rates. Times at parents’ convenience. • Cushing Academy Summer Session Ashburnham, Mass.; (978) 827-7700 Dates: 7/1 -8/3; Length: 5 weeks; Age: 12-18 Other: In just five weeks, you’ll make tremendous

Look Inward. Rosa Parks Museum and Children’s Wing Step back in time and experience the sights and sounds that forever changed our country. This state-of-the-art, interactive museum features multi-media presentations and hands-on exhibits honoring the historic decision of one woman. Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (334) 241-8661 Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 252 Montgomery St. Sun. and Holidays Montgomery, AL 36104 Special engagements only

Rosa Parks Museum ticket prices: 12 years and under $5.50; over 12 years $7.50

Gaze Skyward. W. A. Gayle Planetarium One of the largest planetariums in the Southeast, the W. A. Gayle Planetarium offers a spectacular variety of out-of-this-world shows, exhibits and programs.

(334) 241-4799 Mon. - Thur. 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 1010 Forest Ave. Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montgomery, AL 36106 Sun. - 1 show only Sat. and Holidays Special engagements only

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academic or artistic progress while also enjoying arts and athletic electives, organized excursions around the region, and amazing new friendships that will last a lifetime.. Website: www.cushing.org. E-mail: summersession@ cushing.org • McWane Science Center 200 19th Street North, Birmingham, AL 205-714-8414 Summer Camp, May 4-August 10. In just one day at camp, your child can discover a dinosaur, explore the ocean floor and so much more! The various themes and activities allow children to experience something new each day! Morning and afternoon week long sessions available for 4K-6th grade Full day/full week: $300 (Members save $50), Half Day/ full week: $150 (Members save $25) Reservations are required. All camps include lunch. Please visit our website at www.mcwane.org • Rising Star, Savannah College of Art & Design Savannah, GA; 800-869-7223 Dates: June 23-July 28 Five-week session; Open to students who completed junior year of high school and are interested in a career in the visual and performing arts, design, building arts, or the history of art and architecture. The course carries 10 hours of college credit, which may be applied toward a degree at the Savannah College of Art and Design or other colleges. Contact Fran Jones in Montgomery for additional information at 324-1412. www.scad.edu/risingstar; Email: admissions@scad.edu

Sports Camps • Alabama Baseball Camp Tuscaloosa, AL; (205) 348-8849, The University of Alabama has a wide selection of Baseball camps during the months of June and July. Age ranges for these camps are K-12th grade. 1,2,3 and overnight camps available. Please visit their website for dates, applications and more information. Website: www.bamabaseball.com • Alabama Football Camp Tuscaloosa, AL; (205) 348-0808 Youth Camp (Ages 8-14), June 10-13 Kicking-Long Snapper Camp, (Grades 9-12) June 9 High School Camp (Grades 9-12), Two sessions: June 3-6 and July 15-18 O-line/D-Line Camp, (Grades 9-12) June 16 Other: Taught by Alabama Crimson Tide Football Staff to enhance football skills, weight training and speed. Website: www.rolltide.com. There are many summer camps available through Alabama Athletics. You can obtain information on dates and costs as well as enroll online. • Alabama Women’s Basketball Camp Tuscaloosa, AL; 205-348-6164. Fundamental Camp: June 10-13 (grades 6-12); Day Camp: June 4-6, Grades K-5; Elite Camp (overnight camp): June 2-3, grades 8-12. Team Playdate: Large Varsity Teams, June 7, open to first 20 teams; Team Camp: June 8-10, Designed to allow high school squads to gain valuable game experience competing against teams from all over the Southeast. www.rolltide.com; Email, uawomenshoops@ia.ua.edu. • Auburn Tiger Swim Camp Session I, May 27-May 31 , Resident $675, Commuter $625;Session II, June 3-7, Resident $675, Commuter $625; Session III, June 10-14, Resident $675, Commuter $625;. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us through the website or at auswimcamps@ gmail.com and we will do our best to get back to you in a timely manner. www.auburnswimcamps.com. • Auburn University Baseball Camps Auburn, AL; Call 334-844-4975 Team Camp, June 15-17 and June 19-21

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High School Exposure Camp, July 22-25 Youth Camp, (ages 7-12) July 13-15 Elite Camp, July 15-19; auburnbaseballacademy.com • Auburn Tiger Golf Camp 334-844-9657 June 6-9 (9th birthday through high school graduate) The camp is open to golfers of all skill levels, ages eight through high school seniors. www.auburntigers.com • Auburn Tiger Softball Camp Tina Deesse, 334-844-9563 June 10-13 – Elite Camp – Grades 8th-12th July 8-10 - Fundamental Camp –Grades 3rd-9th. Some of the nation’s top collegiate and scholastic coaches explain, demonstrate, and organize a unique learning environment through creative and innovative teaching methods. Visit www.auburntigers.com. • Auburn Volleyball Camp Volleyball Position Camp, May 29 Volleyball All-skills Camp, July 14-16 Volleyball Positions Camp, July 17 Volleyball Team Camp, July 19-21 Volleyball Team Tournament, July 21-22 Both Team Camp and Team Tournament, July 19-22 Please visit www.auburntigers.com, tab Fans and camps. • AUM Sports Camps Dates to be announced at the end of March. Girls Soccer (Age 6-17) Jamey Newsome 244-3141; Girls Basketball (Gr.7-12) Dan Davis 244-3235; Boys Basketball (Grades 3-9) Larry Chapman 244-3542; Baseball (Ages 6-15) Marty Lovrich 244-3236; Tennis (Ages 6-16) Rolano Vargas 244-3448 Please visit our website at http://www.aumathletics.com • Faulkner Sports Camps Call Debbie Reynolds or Brent Barker at 386-7148.

Ages 6 – 17 Hal Wynn, 386-7285, softball camp; Dates TBA Patrick McCarthy, 386-7980, baseball ; Dates TBA Jim Sanderson, 386-7159, basketball camp; TBA Brett Mitchell, 386-7162, soccer camp; Dates TBA Tori Bartels, 386-7149, Volleyball Camp; Dates TBA Greg Baker, 386-7671, Football Camp; Dates TBA Please visit our website at www.faulkner.edu. • Huntingdon College Baseball Camps Call DJ Conville for costs, 833-4501, Dates TBA 1st session- Pitchers & Catchers Camp, (ages 8-15) 2nd session- (ages 5-15); 3rd Session- (ages 5-15) • Huntingdon College Basketball Camps Boys and Girls ages 6-17 2 Sessions: June 18-21 and July 23-26; 9 am to 4 pm Lunch provided. $170 for the week; sibling discount Call 833-4399 or 652-4465. Huntingdon College Youth Football Camp Ages: 6 - 12 years old; Dates: June 25 - 27 Time: 8 am - 11:30 am Location: Newly renovated Charles Lee Field at Samford Stadium on the campus of Huntingdon College Surface: Synthetic Turf; Brochure may be downloaded at www.huntingdonhawks.com. • John Sadie Golf Camp Beginner and Intermediate Camp; Please call for dates, Beginner and Intermediate Camp; Ages 6-17; Boys and Girls. Call John Sadie at 240-4059 or e-mail at jsadie@ montgomeryal.gov. • McCallie Sports Camp Chattanooga, TN; (800) 672-2267 Age: 9-15; Length: Three 2 week sessions MSC Session I: Monday, June 11 - Saturday, June 23 MSC Session II: Monday, June 25 - Saturday, July 7

MSC Session III: Monday, July 9 - Sat, July 21 Other: Action-oriented with an emphasis on fun, participation and sportsmanship. A little bit of every sport, team sports as well as individuals. Cost: $1950 per session. Website: www.mccallie.org; Email:mwood@mccallie.org • Montgomery Academy Camps Baseball Camp at Montgomery Academy June 11-14 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Learn the fundamentals of baseball. Located at the Vaughn Road Campus Baseball Field. Boys Grades 4th7th. Cost: $95.00. Please call 334-272-8210. Camp Hoopstar Anthony McCall, 272-8210; At The Montgomery Academy. Basketball camp to develop skills through five-onfive team situations stresses sportsmanship, teamwork, hustle and discipline. Boys Sessions: Session 1 (grades 1-7) May 29-June 1 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.; Session 2 (grades 1-7) June 4-7, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Camp Sylvest at the Montgomery Academy Session 1: July 23-26, 1 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.; Grades 2-6 Join Coach Glenn Sylvest for a week of organized fun and games. Camp fee per session is $95.00; Located in Lower Middle School Future Champ Tennis Camp July 25-29; For Boys and Girls ages 6 to 9 of all skill levels. Camp features professional instruction, fun games, snacks and crafts. For info call John McWilliams IV 273-7165 Pass, Set, “Boomdaddy”, Volleyball Camp Learn the fundamentals of the fun and fast-paced game of volleyball. Rising 4th – 8th Graders, June 4-7, 1-4 p.m. Camp fee: $95.00; Located Bear Field House at Vaughn Rd. Campus Softball Camp at Montgomery Academy Girls, Grades 1-5, June 11-14 from 3 p.m. -5 p.m. The camp is designed to teach the total camp of fastpitch softball. Each session will be geared toward the development of the fundamentals of the game both offensively and defensively. Located at the Vaughn Road Campus

YOUTH SUMMER PREVIEW NIGHT April 24, 2012 4 - 7 P.M.

Join us for a “preview” of our summer Youth programs for grades K4 - 12. • Receive discounts on every class • Meet our teachers • Win a FREE class • Meet Curtiss the Warhawk

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Softball Field. Girls Grades 4th-7th. Cost: $95.00. Please call 334-272-8210 for more information. • Saint James Sports Camps Saint James School will continue its summer tradition of providing a variety of sports and cheerleader camps for young people. Printed information will be available soon and will include cost, age groups and other pertinent information. Call Jerry Browning, athletic director, or the individual coaches, at 277-8033, ext. 145. Keith Luckey, Baseball Camp; TBA Amy Patterson, Volleyball Camp; TBA Vickie Parrish, Cheer Camp; TBA Craig Duncan, Wrestling; TBA Katie Barton, Girls Basketball; TBA Vincent Royal , Boys Basketball; TBA • Wulf Koch Soccer Academy Boys and girls soccer camps on the following dates: June 10th - 14th for premier player, 11-18 years of age June 11th - 14h for “little hawks” ages 5-10 July 22th - 26th for premier players, 11-18th years of age July 23rd - 26th for “little hawks” ages 5-10 Camp will be held at the Auburn Montgomery Soccer Complex, located on campus. For information go to www.aumathletics.com or call at (334) 244-3617.

Specialty Camps • Adventures in Math and Science Mobile, AL; (251) 441-2106 June 4-8 (overnight camp) and June 11-15 (overnight and day camp),; Tuition: $375 per week including a $75 nonrefundable deposit; Age: Students entering 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grades. Don’t waste your summer! Spend it at AIMS Summer Camp! Learn while you have fun! Kayak Mobile Bay. Build a smartphone app., Investigate a crime. Prepare for the ACT. Design and make a sculpture. Speak German, Create a hologram. Launch a rocket…and much more! There is something for everyone! Web site: www.asms.net E-mail: slee@asms.net • MANE’s Unified Summer Camp It is time to saddle up for MANE’s annual Unified Summer Camp which is open to riders with or without disabilities! Though MANE’s focus is therapeutic riding, the unified summer camp allows riders with disabilities and able-bodied riders to learn about adaptive activities, acceptance and horses! The Unified Summer Camp program encourages the sport of riding and horsemanship in a safe setting for all children of the Tri-County Area. MANE’s Unified Summer Camp will be held the following weeks: June 25-29, July 9-13, July 16-20 and July 30 -August 3. Classes are conducted daily, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Each camper will participate in riding lessons, horsemanship skills lessons, snack/social time and horse related crafts. Each week concludes with a Friday morning horse show where all participants can show off their new skills to friends and family. Tuition is $250 per week per rider. Receive a $25 discount when you sign up multiple riders or multiple weeks. Each week is limited to 12 riders and applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis. MANE must receive all mandatory paperwork and registration fees for a camper’s slot to be reserved. Deadline for application is June 1, 2012. Please contact Audrey Adamson at (334) 213-0909 for more information. • Shade Tree Summer Horsemanship Day Camp Shade Tree Riding Stables, Millbrook Summer sessions available. Ages 8-15. Our day camp will introduce campers to the challenges and responsibilities of riding and caring for horses. Our program provides extensive riding, hands on learning and lesson time. Call 290.3727 or 546.3964 for dates and reservations.

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• SuCaro Ridge Riding Camps Camps on demand, June and July. Dates available by request. SuCaro Ridge camps are designed to teach English riding, horsemanship, and camaraderie to boys and girls in a safe and fun environment. Those with their own horses are encouraged to bring them to camp and will be provided with a stall or paddock. Days include riding lessons, unmounted horse care lessons, swimming, and crafts, with movies at night before retiring to the air conditioned bunk house. Weekly camps offered. Instructors are Judy Pirtle and Christine Prescott. Contact Christine Prescott at 334-3284553. Located 30 minutes east of downtown Montgomery. • U.S. Space Camp and Aviation Challenge Huntsville, AL; (800) 637-7223 Dates: Runs year round; Summer Program is May 22-August 18, call for pricing. Ages: 9-up. Other: ACA accredited. Parent/child ages 7-11 weekend camps also. US Space Camp is oriented towards astronaut training. Aviation Challenge is oriented towards fighter pilot training. Website: www.spacecamp. com • Valley View Ranch Cloudland, GA; (706) 862-2231 Dates: 6/3-8/3; Length: 1-2 weeks; Age: Girls 8-17. Other: Each girl gets her own horse from 75 horses or bring your own. English & Western riding with CHA certified instructors. Beginners to advanced riders. Established in 1954, Jones Family Ownership. 58th Year. Website: www.valleyviewranch.com

Special Needs

Spring Break Camps Auburn College of Sciences and Mathematics Y.E.S. Camp

March 3, 2012; Time: 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. (registration starts at 8 a.m.) FREE opportunity to let 3rd-5th graders explore the many wonders of science. Each student will participate in hands-on, make-and-take activities related to all fields of science and math. Please call 334-844-4000

Corks & Canvas Spring Break Camp

Peppertree Shopping Center, Vaughn Rd., Caroline Clark, 277-1041 Spring Break Art Camp for children 8 and up. Dates: TBA Snack included. Cost: $125 for 5 session and $30 per individual session. Register in advance online or by phone. Please visit our website at www.corksandcanvas.net

McWane Science Center

200 19th Street North, Birmingham, AL 205-714-8414 Spring Break Camp, March 19-23. Morning and afternoon sessions available for 4K-6th grade. Full day: $80 (Members save $20), Half Day: $40 (Members save $10) Reservations are required. All camps include lunch. Please visit our website at www.mcwane.org

Spring Break at AUM

Dates: March 26-30 from 8:30 – 4:30. Grade K5 -5th grade. Join us and unplug from school with a fun-filled week of “good for you” activities. Camp highlights include daily cooking lessons, nutrition lessons and brain dance activities. Other activities will include Zumba, martial arts, bike riding, playing Wii Fit and Wii Dance. At the conclusion of the camp, students will have a book of healthy recipes to take home and know a variety of fun ways to exercise-all of which can be done at home. Fee includes lunch, snacks, and all supplies. Early drop off, late pick up available. Register by March 15 and receive the Early Bird Rate, $238. After March 15, $248. Call 244-3804 to register, or visit www.aum.edu/coned.

YMCA Branches and Goodtimes Center

March 26-30; Check with the East Y for swim camp. Sign up for Healthy Kids Day at the Goodtimes Center, Cleveland Ave. or Kershaw Branch. Please call 279-8878 or visit www.ymcamontgomery.org.

• Camp ASCCA-Easter Seals Jackson Gap, AL; (800) 843-2267 Length: 1 week; Age: 6 and up; Reduced rates available based on Monday March 26-30; YMCA Spring Break Camp offers kids a fun and exciting camping experience for income. their week-long vacation from school. A Perfect solution for families that cannot take a Spring Break Camp ASCCA Main Campus - Jackson’s Gap Vacation. At four nights, a perfect introduction to Overnight Camping. Campers, both old and new, June 24-29, Muscular Dystrophy will participate in a wide range of activities including fishing, archery, riflery, canoeing, games on the Assoc. Camp green, pedal boats, putt putt, climbing tower, arts & crafts, high ropes, a campfire, and more!!! Cost: Session 1: July 1-6, Child physically disabled (6-21 yr.) and Child $270 per child for YMCA members; $295 per child for non members. *price includes a t-shirt and a visit intellectually disabled (6-21 yr.); to the camp store. Located 30 minutes north of Montgomery off of U.S. 231 N in Wetumpka on Lake Epilepsy Camp (6-18 yr.) Jordan. To register or for information, call (334)269-4362 or email jsmith@ymcamontgomery.org. Session 2: July 8-13, Adult intellectually disabled “Civitan week” (19+ years) • Camp Seale Harris • Squirrel Hollow Learning Camp Session 3: July 15-20, Physically ACA accredited camp for individuals with diaEast Point, GA (770)774-8001; Betsy Box, at The disabled “Teen Week” (15-22 years), “Right Moves” betes. Camp sessions are held at Camp ASCCA Bedford School; Dates: June 18-July 12; Age: 6-16 Sports Camp (Physically disabled 8-18 years) on Lake Martin near Jackson Gap, Alabama. Other: For children with learning disabilities. Session 4: July 22-27, Sickle Cell Camp, Child (205)402-0415 Website: www.thebedfordschool.org. physically disabled (6-21 years) and Child intellectuJunior Camp (ages 6 - 11), June 10-15; bbox@thebedfordschool.org ally disabled (6-21 years) Senior Camp (ages 14 - 17), June 3-9; Session 5: July 29-August 3, Camp Mobile Rotary Summer Family Camp (ages birth - 17), May (Mobile area residents) 29-June 1. Other: Children and their families meet Session 6: August 5-10, Adult intellectually disabled others who live with diabetes and learn to manage (19+ years) and Adult physically disabled (19+ years) their diabetes in a fun camp setting. Please call Session 7: August 12-17, Adult physically disabled for more information about camp dates. Email: (19 + years), Alabama Head Injury Foundation camp CampSealeHarris@aol.com Website: www.campascca.org. info@campascca.org

YMCA Camp Chandler

Helpful Camp Websites: www.kidscamps.com www.acacamps.org

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A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

Gardening Books from the Ground Up Whether they are working on green thumbs or just dirty fingers, kids are natural helpers in the garden. Their contribution to gardening can be large (helping plant or weed) or small (offering to eat the first strawberries), but their participation in any measure is worthwhile. Sharing the power of planting, the importance of gardening and pleasure of harvesting with a child is a big step toward helping them understand the natural world they live in. Grow an appreciation for gardening from the ground up with these garden-themed titles just in time for spring!

My Garden

by Kevin Henkes (Green Willow, HarperCollins) Working side-by-side with her mother in their garden, a young girl’s imagination takes flight as she ponders the type of garden she would cultivate if left to her own ends. What results is a child’s unbound vision of a garden with no weeds, replenishing flowers that change colors with a wish, and chocolate bunnies (that don’t eat the lettuce because you eat them!). She imagines tomatoes as big as beach balls and invisible carrots (because she doesn’t like carrots). Henkes’ watercolor and ink illustrations render these magical ideas with a colorful simplicity that makes the girl’s impossible musings a visible reality. Perhaps the best garden of all is one that exceeds its natural limits and spreads beyond its borders, and meanders about the landscape of a child’s imagination.

Grandpa Green

by Lane Smith (Roaring Brook) ‘Grandpa Green’, Lane Smith’s lush tale of remembrance and regeneration, derives from a small boy’s ramblings in his great-grandfather’s topiary-filled garden. He remembers the stories told of grandpa’s own childhood; how he got the chicken-pox (not from the chickens), that Grandpa went to war, how he married and was happy. The memories are magically mirrored in the fancifully shaped shrubs and plants that populate Grandpa’s garden. The boy remembers, even though Grandpa is starting to forget some things. Poignant, in both word and image, ‘Grandpa Green’ is a perfect appreciation of prior generations and an inspiration to cultivate new memories with older family members.

Tops & Bottoms

by Janet Stevens (Harcourt) ‘Tops & Bottom’ cleverly turns a traditional trickster tale on its ear in more ways than one. Bear is a wealthy landowner with no inclination to work. His neighbor, Hare, is destitute, but clever and energetic. Hare approaches Bear with an offer to plant his land with vegetables, doing all the work himself, but splitting the produce with Bear. Hare lets Bear choose tops or bottoms of the plants each year, but then plants vegetables that favor Hare’s own “half”. When Bear chooses ‘tops’, Hare plants root crops (carrots, turnips). The next year Bear chooses ‘bottoms’, Hare plants cabbage and celery, leaving Bear with the roots. What Hare plants when Bear insists on getting the tops AND bottoms is the final flourishing trick in the rabbit’s favor! Bound to be read spine to edge, the lavish illustrations cover each page from top to bottom! Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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1/19/12 1:32 PM

Florida’s Top Rated Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Announces Its 2012 Spring and Summer Deals Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is offering special deals and new features for this upcoming spring and summer season. For generations, Sandestin has been the destination of choice for families and couples wanting to enjoy the beautiful weather, sugar white sand beaches, golf, tennis, biking, spa and all of the other great things to do from the Beach to the Bay. Voted “Best Resort” by various publications, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has more than 2,400 acres of deluxe waterfront accommodations, recreational activities and scenic areas to enjoy. For 2012, this luxury beach destination in Florida is making it easy by offering flexibility and options for today’s timestarved travelers. Guests have choices between four popular spring deals:

• A FREE Night with the purchase of four (promotion code: FREE5)

• 25% off weekly rates for families and

individuals who love to soak up the sun and the fun for a full week’s getaway (promotion code: WEEKLY) • 25% off an advance purchase for guests who know what they want and like to commit 21 days or more in advance of their arrival (promotion code: LOWEST) • Hot Dates and Rates for people who want to make a last minute decision and are interested in off-peak spring times. (promotion code: HOT) If you’re planning ahead and looking forward to summer, Sandestin is offering a free night with the purchase of six with use of the code FREE7. What’s new this year is an expanded children’s program and the resort’s Club KZ program, providing an opportunity for children to have fun while providing a www.montgomeryparents.com

well deserved break for Mom and/or Dad. Children can enjoy a fun filled day camp or a “Kids Night” out on the weekend. The Village of Baytowne Wharf has also expanded its Adventure Zone, which now includes a Euro-Bungy, expanded three-level, 50-foot high Ropes Course, Climbing Wall and its trademark Zipline, for guests to have a bird’s eye view of the Village and glide over the Lagoon. Also new in 2012 is the expanded Sandestin Wine Festival on April 28 and 29, which will feature a Mediterranean-themed Food Pavilion and the tasting of more than 600 wines from around the world.

Florida golf. For individuals who want a special treat of a private club experience, Sandestin guests can enjoy the Burnt Pine Golf Club, with beautiful lockers and dining privileges the day of play. Children can also accompany mom, dad, or any paying adult free on the course at the Baytowne Golf Club any day after 12 noon. Tennis players can enjoy round robins, individual play or tennis lessons with pros that make Sandestin one of the top three resorts in the country for tennis instruction. For many, the perfect spring break means R&R on Sandestin’s beautiful sugar white sand beach, enjoying the resort’s full beach services including umbrellas, chairs, YOLO stand up paddle boards, and of course complimentary kayak or boogie board rental. Speaking of complimentary, Sandestin offers its guests four hours of free bicycle rentals a day, and for adults, free fitness center access. For more information on this Destin, Florida beach destination, accommodations and events, visit www.sandestin.com or call (866) 779-5593. About Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Sandestin is different from other destinations because of its wide variety of choices from the Beach to the Bay and options for people of all ages. Long standing traditions have included golf on one of Sandestin’s immaculate four championship golf courses offering the best in Destin, 84

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort was named the #1 resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast. The resort invites guests to a world of 2,400 acres and 30 charming neighborhoods featuring 1,300 Destin vacation rentals, condominiums, villas, town homes and the best in Destin hotel accommodations. As a member of Visit South Walton, the resort features more than seven miles of beaches and pristine bay front, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 19 swimming pools, a 113-slip marina, a fitness center and spa, meeting space and The Village of Baytowne Wharf, a pedestrian village with shopping, dining and nightlife. Guests and prospective guests are invited to download Sandestin’s APP for iPhone and Android devices, or become a Facebook Fan or Twitter follower for the latest events and news.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Pink and Pearls for Girls Hold Dedication Ball

The Pink and Pearls For Girls had an enchanted evening of dinner, music and entertainment at the Christopher Starr Reception Facility in celebration of the organization’s Homecoming. All Pearl Girls were introduced and welcomed into the Pink and Pearls For Girls Incorporation. The girls danced to “My Girl” with their parents. The Queen and Princesses were crowned for the year 2011-2012. A Bible Scripture that the girls recited was led by one of the Pink Lady Volunteers. The evening ended with picture taking and dancing. To join the Pink and Pearls For Girls family, please call Grace Smith at 561-5091.

YMCA Basketball Team Finishes Championship Season

The 12- and 13-year-old boys’ YMCA Pacers basketball team finished a championship season recently. Back row from left are Assistant Coach Mike Shirley, Rodarian Thomas, Marcus Crenshaw, Thomas Dismukes, Marvin Jones and Coach Tommy Dismukes; and front row are John Adams, William Shirley and Bennett Griffin.

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Jackson Hospital Seeks ‘Wheelchair’ Volunteers

Jackson Hospital’s volunteer program is currently seeking volunteers to participate in the “wheelchair brigade,” a new endeavor that will help with transporting patients. The volunteer wheelchair brigade will help transport patients within the hospital and to their vehicles upon discharge. The position is physical and includes a great deal of walking and standing over a four-hour period. These volunteers will have frequent interaction with the public and must be friendly, courteous and have a positive attitude. “The wheelchair brigade will be a very rewarding experience for anyone looking to be active and work directly with patients and their families,” said Linda Dean, Jackson Hospital volunteer director. “Our volunteers give so much back to Jackson. They are truly invaluable.” Volunteers must be at least 19 years old and are asked to work four hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. For more information on volunteering for the brigade, call Linda at 293-8967.

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Cub Scouts Clean Adopted Mile

On a cool Saturday morning in February, Wetumpka Cub Scouts from Pack 429 organized to clean the group’s adopted mile on Firetower Road. Others from the community were invited to join in and help pick up litter in the surrounding areas of Redland Road, Dozier and further down Firetower. Adults and children, some with dogs on leashes, were seen canvassing the area in an effort to spruce up their neighborhood. The scouts are shown here with their parents and leaders, displaying the amount of trash gathered.

Huntington Learning Center Celebrates Read Across America

On March 2, the staff and students of Huntington Learning Center of Montgomery will join millions of teachers and administrators, librarians, higher education faculty, education support professionals, students and members of the National Education Association (NEA) to celebrate Read Across America Day, which marks the 108th birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as beloved children’s author, Dr. Seuss. “Literacy is the foundation of learning and the most essential building block in a child’s education,” says Christi Davis of the Montgomery Huntington Learning Center. “Read Across America is one of our favorite national celebrations. It not only brings attention to the importance of reading as an academic and life skill, it reminds us all that reading is fun. Dr. Seuss’s books revolutionized storytelling and continue to show readers of all ages that reading is one of life’s great pastimes.” How can parents encourage their children to get excited about reading? Davis offers these tips: * Let your child choose books about subjects that interest him or her. * Continue trying new types of books to give your child opportunities to discover that favorite book or author. * Select books that your child can read successfully. Choosing books that he or she struggles to read will only prove discouraging. * Help your reluctant reader find books he or she likes. This may involve some trial and error, but talk with your librarian for ideas and look specifically for book series and lists designed for students who are below-grade-level or reluctant readers. * Reward reading. If your child needs a little encouragement, incentivize him or her for reading each day. The more your child reads, the more successful he or she will become—and the more likely he or she will want to read more. * Make reading a part of everyday life at home. * Make reading fun, and don’t force it. Follow your child’s lead when it comes to selecting books, even if it means letting him or her choose a comic book over a novel, or a book that’s below his or her ability over one that challenges him or her. For more info about Read Across America Day, visit www. nea.org/readacross or contact Christi Davis at Huntington Learning Center of Montgomery at (334) 277-9200 or hlcmontgomery@knology.net. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Public Library Events MONTGOMERY CITY-COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Storytimes Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library (Main Branch) 245 High Street 240-4991 Preschool Storytimes Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. in the Auditorium

Coliseum Branch 840 Coliseum Boulevard 271-7005 Preschool Storytimes Thursdays, 10 a.m.

March 8 I Want You to Be Happy Day Teletubbies: The Happy Day Happy Day We will have a craft.

March 22 Some people can do wonderful things! Superman Versus Mongul Blackout Craft: Mongul Masks

March 15 St. Patrick’s Day It’s St. Patrick’s Day, Dear Dragon Jeremy Bean’s St. Patrick’s Day

March 29 It’s good to learn by asking questions! How Do You Know? Do You Know Which Ones Will Grow? Craft: Billy goat masks

Morgan Memorial Library Young Adult Department Teen Tech Week Theme: Geek Out @ Your Library March 6-12 Thursday, March 8 @ 6 p.m. Teen Movie Night - Bring a pillow, bean bag or camp chair and sit back and enjoy the movie. Call the Young Adult Department for title of the movie information. Wed., March 14 @ 3 p.m. Book Swap Party - Stop by after school and join us for a fun afternoon of trading gently used books. Bring in your books to swap and leave with a different book to read. www.montgomeryparents.com

Hampstead Branch Library 5251 Hampstead High St., Ste. 107 244-5770

March 8 No Story Time Today

March 1 Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! Green Eggs and Ham Dr. Seuss’s Oh, Baby! Go Baby! We will have a craft.

March 29 National Craft Month We will have fun today promoting the creativity of crafts.

March 31 Kites Fly High Day Henry and the Kite Dragon The Berenstain Bears Fly a Kite, Coloring page activity

March 1 I love to play with my friends! Can I Play Too? Watch Me Throw the Ball Craft: Pig masks

March 15 It’s nice to help your friends when they need you! I Broke My Trunk There Is a Bird on Your Head Craft: Elephant masks

March 22 It’s Spring! Marley Springs Ahead Snow Rabbit, Spring Rabbit: A Book of Changing Seasons

Goldie and the Three Bears Maze activity

Baby & Toddler Time Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. An early learning program for children ages 6 months to 3 years March 7 Nursery Rhymes: “Two Little Dicky Birds” & “When the Snow is on the Ground” Signing “car” March 14 Nursery Rhymes: “Ding, Dong, Bell” & “Jenny Wren” Signing “boat” March 21 Nursery Rhymes: “Little Tommy Tucker” & “Hot Cross Buns” Signing “dirty” March 28 Nursery Rhymes: “If All the Seas Were One Sea” & “Horsey, Horsey” Signing “horse”

Governor’s Square Branch 2885-B E. South Blvd. 284-7929 Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

Pre-School Story Time: Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.

March 6 Get Silly with Seuss Day Special guest theatre student from AUM will read Seuss stories, followed by a role play activity.

March 6 Singing/Music (National Sing with Your Child Month) Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes If You’re a Monster and You Know It Activity: Didgeridoo or Paper Plate Tambourine

March 13 Healthy and Tasty Foods Day Special guest David Barranco, Chappy’s Deli, will read The Sandwich Swap and I Will Not Ever Eat a Tomato, then tell the children about healthy eating. After that the children will be treated to a sample from Chappy’s.

March 13 St. Patrick’s Day The Leprechaun Who Lost His Rainbow Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Samantha and Lola Activity: Leprechaun coloring sheet

March 20 Spring Surprises Day Watch the movie Springtime for Max and Ruby, and enjoy special treats.

March 20 In the Ocean Day Shark in the Dark Billy Twitters and His Blue Whale Problem Activity: Paper Plate Fish

March 27 Bouncy Bears Day Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See? 88

March 27 Books/Library Day Wild About Books Miss Brooks Loves Books! And I Don’t Activity: Animal Masks Rufus A. Lewis Branch 3095 Mobile Hwy. 240-4848 Preschool Storytime Wednesdays, 10 a.m. March 7 Out of Sight The Shape of Me and Other Stuff Counting Shapes Activity March 14 Show Me the Honey Oh, the Places You’ll Go Color places you would like to go. March 21 Catch the Wind! All About Kites The Wind Blew Craft: Make Easy Origami Kites March 28 It Looked Like Spilt Milk Little Cloud Craft: Make Cloud Puppets Storytimes with Ms. Stringer Mondays @ 10 a.m. Southlawn Special Ed. Group Thursdays @ 9:30 a.m. Rosa Parks Cultural Arts Center March 5 & 8 Where the Wild Things Are Does a Kangaroo Have a Stone Soup March 12 & 15 Mother Goose Tales Songs & Rhymes March 19 & 22 Pooh’s Honey Adventure Duck’s in A Row Activity: Make Duck Puppets March 26 & 29 Good Night Gorilla Hold Tight Spot’s First Picnic & Other Stories Spring Festivals E.L. Lowder Branch 2590 Bell Road 244-5717 Preschool Storytimes Fridays, 10:15 a.m. March 2 Read-Across-America / Dr. Seuss’s Birthday

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Special Guest!!!! Dr. Seuss’s Birthday Party Coloring and Craft Activities March 9 The Jacket I Wear in the Snow The Snow Day Coloring and Craft Activities March 16 St. Patrick’s Day in the Morning St. Patrick’s Day Celebration with Special Guest: Julia-Ann Jenkins, E. L. Lowder Branch Head Coloring and Craft Activities March 23 Amanda & Her Alligator! Coloring and Craft Activities March 30 Snow Rabbit, Spring Rabbit Changing Seasons Coloring and Craft Activities Rosa L. Parks Branch 1276 Rosa L. Parks Ave./240-4979 Storytimes Tuesdays, 10 a.m. March 6 Learn about books and a dog who loves them at Story Time! March 13 Meet Jafta’s Father at Story Time! March 20 Learn about Chinese Kite Flying March 27 Take a journey with Jafta! Fun For All Ages! Thursday, March 8 @ 10:30 a.m. Join us for a Self-Defense class for Women and Girls. Thursday, March 15 @ 4 p.m. Get Creative @ Your Library. Join us and create something! Pike Road Branch 9585 Pike Rd. / 244-8679 Storytime for ages 3-7 Mondays, 4:15 p.m. March 5 Clip-Clop Tiny Little Fly March 12 Wombat Walkabout Daisy and the Beastie March 19 Moo Cow Kaboom! Big Fat Cow That Goes Ka-pow Special Children’s Program Monday, March 5, at 1 p.m. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Author B. Coyne will read from her book, Treading Water on Ripple Creek Farm: Lily, and discuss the book with kids and grown-ups. The Ripple Creek Farm series follows the progress of a young farming family growing up in rural, southern America. The first book is set in The Great Depression and World War II eras. Lily, who is the eldest Howell child, tells the story. With a growing family, daily dilemmas with farm life, and two of her uncles away in the war, Lily will need great heart and strength as the family treads water. An historically accurate story with good old-fashioned morals. A great family story recommended for ages 9 and up.

March 6 Arthur’s Teacher Trouble March 13 Arthur’s Pet Business March 20 Arthur Goes to Camp March 27 Arthur’s Computer Disaster

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AutaugaPrattville Library

254 Doster Street, Prattville Call 365-3396 or visit http://www.appl.info Preschool Storytime Tuesdays at 10 a.m. for toddlers-5 years old Stories, craft and snack!! Children must be able to sit independently for 15-20 minutes. Parents/guardians must stay with the children at all times. P.A.W.S. dogs Wednesdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Come read to our furry, four-legged friends!

Family Movie Time Thursday, March 15, at 4 p.m. Hey, kids and grown-ups, come on over to enjoy a movie and some popcorn. The best part is the admission cost: FREE! Pine Level Branch 20 Kohn Dr., Pine Level 584-7144 Pine Level Storytime group has combined with Pike Road. Pintlala Branch 255 Federal Rd., Hope Hull 281-8069

Millbrook

3650 Grandview Road Call 285-6688 or visit http://library.cityofmillbrook.org/ Pre-school Storyhour every Thursday at 10 a.m. Come join Miss Angie for stories, crafts, fun and snacks!

Wetumpka

212 S. Main St. (next to Wetumpka Depot) Call 567-1308 or visit wetumpkalibrary.com Preschool storytimes Tuesdays & Fridays at 10 a.m.

Youth and Homeschool Book Clubs

Many branches hold monthly book clubs for teenagers and/or homeschoolers. If you’d like more information, please contact your local library branch.

Thurs., March 1 @ 11:20 a.m. Pre-K Ready, Set, Skip Game: Freeze Dance Tues., March 6 @ 11:10 a.m. K A Pet for Petunia Craft: Flower out of cupcake cups Thurs., March 8 @ 1:30 p.m. 2nd Grade Pop: The Invention of Bubble Gum Craft: Word find with words from story Wed., March 14 @ 11:20 a.m. K A Pet for Petunia Craft: Flower out of cupcake cups Thurs., March 15 @ 11:20 a.m. Pre-K Jamie O’Rourke and the Big Potato Craft: Draw details on the Leprechaun Face Tues., March 20 @ 11:10 a.m. K The Old Woman and Her Pig Craft: Make pig snouts Ramer Branch Library 5444 State Highway 94 (334) 562-3364 Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, 10 a.m. 89

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Exploring Alabama

Through Family Camping

by Alison K. Rouse

If you had told me five years ago that my family would own a pop-up camper and that I could speak with some knowledge on public parks around our state, I would have been doubtful. After all, I only had two memories of camping as a child, one with my family and one with a friend and her grandparents. My husband and I had never even camped together, despite frequent short and long trips before and after we had children. However, as the parents of two young boys, ages 9 and 7, we have become active in the Cub Scout program. We have discovered that camping has exposed our family to experiences we cannot achieve elsewhere, and aside from some start-up costs, it is relatively inexpensive. For example, most state and federal parks offer camp sites for tents and campers, with nominal daily fees starting from as little as $15 or $20 a day. Bath houses offer hot water, showers and restrooms. Some parks even rent cabins, chalets or hotel rooms and offer full-service restaurants! (This is not your parents’ camping…) Parks can offer your family a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, biking and geocaching. If you are new to geocaching, it is basically www.montgomeryparents.com

treasure-hunting with a handheld GPS (global positioning satellite) device. We have found that it is a wonderful way to motivate otherwise inactive “homebodies.” If the thought of outdoor adventure is new or overwhelming to some members of your family, there are quite a few ways to ease into it. Some easy suggestions are to buy a few basic supplies, such as a tent and sleeping bags, and simply try camping in the back yard overnight. Grill some hot dogs and roast marshmallows over a fire built in a chiminea or fire pit and resist the urge to go indoors for every little thing. You may find, as we did the first time we tried this, that your kids are not quite ready to take it to the next step yet. If that is the case, you can always visit a park for the day and still take advantage of hiking, fishing and swimming. For example, we found that there are enough things to keep our family busy spending an afternoon at Tannehill Ironworks Historical Park in McCalla near Birmingham. A shady creek with plenty of cool water and room to swim is a welcome respite from summer heat, 90

but there are also areas to fish and hike, and a small train travels from one area of the park to another. Depending on when you go, there may be a rock and mineral show, or a Civil War battle reenactment taking place. A small general store offers ice cream and cold drinks when you’re ready for a snack. Once your family is ready for overnight adventure, one helpful web site to visit is http://alapark.com/. This site does not include all of Alabama’s state parks, but it does

Tannehill Ironworks in McCalla Montgomery Parents I March 2012

include those managed by Alabama’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. A map of the state shows their locations, and links describe everything from directions and day use fees, to activities in the park and nearby areas. Some, such as Lake Guntersville State Park and Cheaha located in Delta, offer on-site restaurants. In addition to the conservation parks, hisOn-site dining at Cheaha State Park toric state parks include Tannehill Ironworks in the north picnic trail offer spectacular views McCalla (http://www. of Lake Martin. tannehill.org/), Brierfield Ironworks near If Birmingham is your destination, we Birmingham (http://www.brierfieldironworks. org/), Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson in Wetump- had a fun weekend at Oak Mountain last May. The campground has a pavilion that ka (http://www.forttoulouse.com/) and Fort hosts planned activities for campers, and our Blakely in Spanish Fort (http://blakeleypark. boys enjoyed a few competitive rounds of com/). These parks have the added bonus of old-fashioned family bingo. During the day, mixing history with nature, providing ample we hiked near the Alabama Wildlife Rehalearning opportunities for your kids. bilitation Center, the state’s oldest and largest Prairie Creek and Gunter Hill were both wildlife rehabilitation facility that annually established by the U.S. Corps of Engineers receives almost 1,800 birds from more than and can be found on http://www.us-parks. com/alabama-camping.html along with many 100 different species. My guiltiest pleasure, however, other Corps campgrounds located across the state. You can also visit http://www.recreation. was going out to dinner that night at the Melting gov/ and search for Alabama parks. Pot Restaurant in the new shopping center off Cahaba Keeping it Close Valley Road. Several campgrounds are within an hour of Montgomery but can still give your family the feel of being somewhere else. In addition to camp sites, Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson in Wetumpka is a great place for biking, history and boating. If you get hungry and forgot to pack enough food, several restaurants are located minutes away on Highway 231. Domino’s Pizza will even deliver in the park! Chewacla in Auburn has the benefit of being close to the college campus and nearby attractions (such as the Surfside Water Park), but also boasts a man-made waterfall and plenty of hiking trails. Cabins are available as well, but don’t expect to get them on a football weekend! Wind Creek State Park is located seven miles southeast of Alexander City, so it is quite popular with fans of Lake Martin. Park facilities include a marina with boat ramps, camp store, pavilions for picnicking, and a 210-foot fishing pier. Two hiking trails allow visitors to view blooming dogwoods and other wildflowers, and parts of Montgomery Parents I March 2012

2,000 pounds, but were not willing at that time to buy a new vehicle with larger towing capacity. That, along with wanting something we could store in our own back yard, limited our options. We also wanted something rustic enough that would still make us feel like we were camping. In some ways, a pop-up is akin to a tent on wheels, and it can take almost an hour to set it up. But it does have a propane heater, an electric air conditioner, a small refrigerator, sink, stove top, two queen beds, a table and seating that can double as two additional small beds. There is no restroom, but we rationalized that we wouldn’t have that in a tent anyway. Parks do have restrooms, and it has been my experience that most are reasonably clean. If your family decides to consider a camper, you might want to visit www.goRVing.com for detailed information including affordability and options. Either way, you will still need some basic camping supplies, such as coolers and cookware. Consider camping with another family so that if one of you forgets something, there is a chance that the other remembered it! Also, think about bringing along board games and books for the kids if rain keeps you indoors. We have chosen to leave the

Tent Vs. Camper?

Our family started with a tent, and we still use it for some occasions, but we have found that for all four of us to camp longer than one night, we prefer the conveniences that our small camper provides. Only you Waterfall at Chewacla State Park in Auburn can determine what will electronic games at home on some trips and work best for your own family, but there are limit them during others, depending on the a few things to consider. How often do you amount of activities planned for the weekend. plan to camp? How much are you willing to Just remember that the main goal of camping spend? Where do you plan to go? How much is to offer your family a chance to relax and space do you need to store your supplies? enjoy nature and each other! mp For example, we know people who own big RVs that cannot be stored at their own houses, so they have to pay to keep them at a Alison is associate editor of Montgomery Parents. She storage unit. Also, big pull-behind RVs need is married to her husband, Scott, and has two sons, Alex big vehicles to tow them. We already owned and Ryan. They have shared many camping advena 2004 Honda Pilot, which could tow about tures in the last few years! 91

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Elite Cheerleaders Local Organization Aims to Win National Help Families of Ill Children The Just Keep Smiling Foundation is a Championships non-profit organization that seeks to assist

Elite’s cheerleading teams traveled to Mobile in February and competed in the JamFest National Championship. Two teams brought home first-place wins to be named National Champions. Those teams were Tiny Level 1, who won the title their first year as a team, and Senior Level 3, who won for the second year in a row. The Tiny Level Team includes, from left: Alli Smith, Kennedy Montgomery, Ansley Smith, Kirstin Staton and Lauryn Darnell with Chris Montgomery. The Senior Level 3 Team includes, front row from left: Jordan Dyer, Morgan Vogel and Chandlar Atkins; second row: Kaitlyn Taylor, Haleigh Law, Savannah Fitzpatrick, Jonica Spikes, Saralyn Ricketts, Joanna Wilger, Brianna Knight and Whitney McCaskill; third row: Kaleigh Richards, Emily Brown, Reagan Law, Breelyn Buck, Laken Bausch, Summer Gurlaskie, Jordan Orender, Chris Montgomery, Ashley Dunahoo, Kayla Moore and Lindsey McGowin; and back row: Alexis Bennett, Arthina Lee and Ashley Montgomery. Other Elite teams also finished in the top three, receiving third place for Mini Level 1 Team and second place for Junior Level 2 team. If you’d like to be a part of a championship team, tryouts are April 28. Visit www. eliteallstarz.com for details.

Heritage Baptist Hosts Foster Parent Meeting

Agape of Central Alabama encourages any Christian interested in foster care to attend an Informational Dinner to learn more about caring for the younger generation. The meeting will be held Thursday, March 15, from 6-8 p.m. at Heritage Baptist Church in Montgomery. There is no cost, but registration is requested. E-mail info@ agapeforchildren.org or call 272-9466. Childcare will be provided for children up to 10 years old. Please specify children’s ages. Agape of Central Alabama has been changing lives since 1978. Our mission is to meet the needs of families and children through adoption, foster care and maternity services with unconditional love. Agape’s main office is in Montgomery, with offices in Mobile, Enterprise and Birmingham. For more information, contact Emily Thames at ewthames@agapeforchildren.org or 272-9466. www.montgomeryparents.com

families with critically ill children. We strive to do so by providing financial aid for immediate needs, offering emotional support based on personal knowledge of a child’s serious illness or death, and sharing spiritual insight that conveys the solace, grace and strength found in God. Just Keep Smiling has been operating in Gardendale, Ala., for the last six years. It was founded by three women, Sue Jeffreys, Debra Cook and Patrice Brooks, who all suffered tragedies with their own children. Because of their personal knowledge of having a critically ill child, they knew of needs that were not being met by any other entity. A long-term illness can devastate a family not only emotionally but financially too. This financial burden is only compounded if the parent has to leave a job in order to be with the child in the hospital. JKS’s goal is to keep the parent in the hospital with their child in what may be their last days on earth. JKS pays immediate needs such as mortgage or rent payments, car payments, and utility payments. Support also comes in the form of gas cards and food vouchers. Many families travel long distances back and forth to the hospital and just having the money for a meal can be difficult. The founders also knew that their Christian faith was instrumental in their journey and wanted to offer spiritual and emotional support to these families if they so desired. Montgomery businessman Russ Taylor, and his business (Highpoint Holdings, LLC), has been a contributor to JKS for several years. Jeff Brooks, his business partner, is the brother-in-law of one of the three founders, Patrice Brooks. Taylor has been blessed in his business and wanted to give back to the community. He decided that he could best serve our area by helping with the expansion of JKS and through his generosity, JKS has been able to relocate to Montgomery and hire Executive Director Mary Huey. Taylor is absorbing most of the operational costs so that JKS can give almost 100% of all donations straight to struggling families. Our plan is to reach area hospitals and provide our services to them as well as expand our donor base so that we are able to help more families. Visit www.justkeepsmiling.org to learn how you can help, or how we can help you! Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Enter the 2012 Funky Junk Art Contest

Make plans now to enter the Montgomery Clean City Commission’s fun and unique Funky Junk Art Contest. Contest Rules: 1. Entries must be original designs – No copies or purchased items; only one entry per participant. Group contestants may participate in more than one group. 2. Entries must be composed of used materials and/or recycled goods. 3. Entries must be easily transportable: Maximum total weight – 25 lbs; maximum size – 3’ by 3’; MCCC is not responsible for art that falls apart. 4. Entries must be delivered to Montgomery Clean City Commission at 1 Dexter Plaza (formerly 1 Court Square); Montgomery, AL 36104. Enter on the Montgomery St. side. 4. Art must be at MCCC by deadline to qualify. 5. Non-winning entries must be picked up from Montgomery Clean City Commission by Friday, April 27th. Entries not picked up will be recycled. DEADLINE: All art must come in from April 2 – 6, 2012 and entries must arrive after 8:00 a.m. and before 4:00 p.m. Categories: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, Group, and Adult. There will be a 1st, 2nd, 3rd prize and Honorable Mention Awarded in each category. A Grand Prize will be chosen from all entries. Winning entries will be on display at MAX Credit Union @ 400 Eastdale Circle from April 24 through May 8. The Awards Ceremony will be held on May 10 at MAX Credit Union. QUESTIONS? Contact Cynthia Jancaterino, Education Coordinator, Montgomery Clean City Commission, 241-2175 or 625-2175. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Family Spiritual News Living Faith Crusade at Harvest Family Church

Kenneth Hagin Ministries from Tulsa, Oklahoma, will be in Montgomery March 11-14 to hold a Living Faith Crusade. The services are hosted by Harvest Family Church at 7245 Copperfield Drive. Monday through Wednesday mornings at 10:30, Rev. Lynette Hagin will teach on prayer. Rev. Kenneth W. Hagin will minister in the Sunday through Wednesday evening services at 7 p.m. with the Wednesday evening service having a special emphasis on God’s healing power. Each service will feature music by the Rhema Singers and Band. Nursery thru Kinder childcare will be provided for all services. For more about the meetings, visit www.rhema.org/crusades or www.harvestfamilychurch.com or call 277-1156.

Landmark Church Missions Consignment Sale

Thursday, March 1-Saturday, March 3 Items include children’s clothes for all seasons, toys, books for all ages, videos, furniture of all kinds, small kitchen appliances, maternity clothes, bags and more! Proceeds from this sale contribute to the Landmark short-term mission teams fundraising. These teams travel to Turkey, Malawi, Mexico, Guatemala and China. Last year we raised more than $4,000 to help cover the trip costs for our team members. Clothes left over from the sale were donated and shipped to Africa. Other items donated helped bless our local Inner City ministry, Compassion 21, and others in Montgomery. Look for more information online at www.landmarkchurch.net.

Jewish Food Festival Held on March 11

Over the years, thousands of men, women and children have enjoyed the Jewish Food Festival, including sampling the food; visiting the Treasure Market that promises something for everyone; and stopping by Temple Beth Or’s Gift Shop, which has a wonderful selection of jewelry and other gifts. Many also take the opportunity to attend a short session in the Temple’s sanctuary with Rabbi Elliot Stevens to learn about Jewish customs. The central attraction, of course, is the Jewish food that may be purchased and most of which has been handmade by Temple members. Included are pastries such as rugelach, strudel and mondel bread; hot plates of brisket or pastrami; matzo ball soup; potato latkes; and quajado (spinach pie). “Imported” from New York are New York cheesecakes, direct from the famous Carnegie Deli and sold by the slice or cake. Rabbi Stevens, who assumed the position as Rabbi of Temple Beth Or in 2007, says, “Our Jewish Food Festival is our ambassador to the community. For me, a real high point during the Festival is being able to welcome visitors and share something about our Jewish tradition and culture.” Temple Beth Or is located at 2246 Narrow Lane Road in Montgomery. This year’s festival will be held Sunday, March 11, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. For more information, visit www.templebethor.net. Admission and parking are free.

Foster Care Training Offered at First Baptist

Foster Care Training will be held at First Baptist Church, Montgomery, beginning Tuesday, March 13, from 6-9 p.m. Training will run for 10 weeks and will be facilitated by the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home (ABCH). ABCH is expanding to the tri-county area and looking for Christian families who will be committed to providing a loving and stable home for a foster child. For more information, please contact Bobbi Olson at (334) 430-7569. www.montgomeryparents.com

Aldersgate Methodist Hosts Stephen Ministry Workshop

Is your congregation committed to lay ministry and caring ministry? Would 10 or 20 trained caregivers make a difference at your church? On Saturday, March 10, Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Montgomery will host a Stephen Ministry Workshop from 9 a.m.–1 p.m., which will feature three sessions highlighting Stephen Ministry. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and refreshments will be served. Experience a sample of the training Stephen Ministers receive through two sessions, “Ministering to Those Experiencing Grief” and “How to Care in a Distinctively Christian Way.” Learn why more than 10,000 congregations representing more than 150 Christian denominations use the Stephen Series for training and organizing laypeople to do one-to-one caring ministry. The cost of this workshop is $15 per person or $50 for a group of four or more from the same congregation. Gather a group from your congregation to attend this informative workshop. For more information or to register for this half-day Stephen Ministry Workshop, call Stephen Ministries at (314) 428-2600, or register at www.stephenministry.org/workshop

Michael W. Smith Concert At Frazer UMC March 18 at 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5:15) Frazer UMC’s Wesley Hall Tickets for the Multi-Dove and Grammy award-winning Christian artist are on sale now in the Frazer bookstore for $30 or online at www.itickets.com. Contact butch@ frazerumc.org for more information. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Discover HOPE This Easter Wednesday, April 4

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Easter Communion Worship

Friday, April 6 12:00

Good Friday Worship

Sunday, April 8 8:30 am 9:45 am 11:00 am 6:15 pm

Easter Celebration Bible Fellowship Classes Easter Celebration Evening Worship

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

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Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Jay Wolf, Pastor 305 South Perry St :: Montgomery, AL 36104 95 www.montgomeryparents.com 334.834.6310 :: www.montgomeryfbc.org

Family Calendar Ongoing Ala. Dept. of Archives & History

Exhibit galleries include children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Granny’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. Discovery Boxes are filled with all kinds of Alabama history. Numerous handouts, videos on Selma to Montgomery March, Helen Keller, Mardi Gras and more. Photographs of Helen Keller on display. The Archives museum galleries are FREE to the public. Hours are Mon.-Sat., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Please note: The Research Room is only open the 2nd Saturday of each month. 624 Washington Ave., Montgomery. 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. Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. 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 will also be available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. 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. 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

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March 2012

Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are MondayFriday 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. 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. 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. 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 Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 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 (2151422); 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. and Sun. Admission $3.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $2.50/person. Mon-Thurs. at 3 p.m.; Sun. at 2 p.m. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 241-4799. 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: 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]. 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. 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. Exit 8, Stone Mountain Park off Hwy 78 in Georgia. 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 10:30-11 a.m. March 21. 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. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

Classes Bradley Method Natural Childbirth Classes

Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Zink Chiropractic Clinic, Course includes pregnancy exercise and nutrition, body changes during pregnancy, the coach’s role in pregnancy and natural birth, the stages of labor, breathing and relaxation for labor, common interventions and how to avoid them, breastfeeding, basic newborn care, and more. Contact Lanette Tyler, 450-4605 or lanette.tyler@gmail. com; or visit www.bradleybirth.com Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breast-feeding experience. Usually the first Saturday of the month, from 9-11 a.m. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. FREE. 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 but are often held on the first Saturday of the month, from noon-2 p.m.. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class This five-week class meets once a week to learn ways to prepare for labor, birth and early parenthood experiences. Monday or Tuesday class, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Baptist Medical Center East, $60. Call 273-4445 for dates and to register. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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. Grandparent Class This program presents new concepts in newborn care to grandparents who need a refresher course. Usually one Tuesday per month. FREE. Call for schedule. Jackson Hospital. Call 293-8497. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Your Amazing Newborn One-night class taught by a pediatrician and nursing staff usually one Tuesday a month. This class presents new concepts in newborn care and helps alleviate parenting jitters often experienced by soon-to-be parents. Grandparents also welcome. Jackson Hospital. FREE. For more info, call 293-8497.

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

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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 to work in key areas of the hospital. Volunteers provide an invaluable service to the hospital while making new friends and experiencing a fulfilling activity. Volunteers must be at least 19 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 Linda Dean, 293-8967. 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. Nolan Research Pays Kids for Toy Testing Nolan Research, 2569 Bell Road in Montgomery, conducts toy tests that pay $20 in cash to each child ages 4-12 that participates. Testing takes place usually between 5 and 7 p.m. and only takes about 30-45 minutes. Results are used to help toy manufacturers decide whether or not to bring new toys out on the market. Please call 284-4164 to sign your child up and spread the word to any other families who may be interested in allowing their children to participate.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC), This group provides education and social interaction for

www.montgomeryparents.com

Family Calendar adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call 409-9477 or e-mail apac2@ childrensaid.org. 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 apac2@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 get-togethers 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. TOUCH, which stands for “Today Our Understanding of Cancer is Hope,” is a general support group for any cancer patient or family member touched by any type of the disease. It is supported by the American Cancer Society and its volunteers. Meetings take place each month on 3rd Tuesdays starting at 6:15 p.m. at Lakeview Baptist Church on Atlanta High-

March 2012

way. For more information, call Luella Giles at 612-8162. 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 1-800-ACS-2345 Cancer Support Group, Lakeview Baptist Church, 2nd Tuesdays at 6:15 p.m. A select group of doctors and other medical personnel offer information and encouragement to cancer survivors and relatives. For more info, please call 213-3080. 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 & Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to of-

fer 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. 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. Please call 284-2721 for more info. 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 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 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. 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.

Homeschool Support

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Coosada Baptist Church on Coosada Road, Coosada. 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

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Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to noon. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. On the first Thursday of each month, the hours are extended to 12:30 p.m. while the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 beginning at 11 a.m. Only during this time will each participant need to bring a sack lunch. For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. This new series is for all patients with congestive heart failure and their caregivers. This series is FREE for all participants. Below is the information: Cardiolife, a new 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. 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 272-8622 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 201-9638 or 652-1431 for more info. Fibromyalgia Support, Room 8114 at Frazer UMC, 3rd Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. This group is for those that have fibromyalgia and for their family members and friends. For more info, please call 272-8622. 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 4th Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChase-NE. Turn on Berryhill Rd by Eastchase). For more info, e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit http://gfmontgomery. blogspot.com or 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 is offering “Family to Family,” a FREE 12-week education course open to all caregivers of

Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Family Calendar adults with mental illness. Classes begin Thursday, Nov. 3, and meet weekly from 6-8:30 p.m. at Montgomery Public Library’s Lowder Branch, 2590 Bell Road. Registration required. Call Mary Jo Logan, 271-2280, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 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, 4th Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsey) Support meets 2nd Tuesdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in Room 3104 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group is for family members of patients suffering from Progressive Supranuclear Palsey. The group focuses on personal experiences and sharing, provides information and resources, and helps family members deal with the struggles that accompany PSP. For more information, call 272-8622. Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets 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. Tourette Syndrome & Tic Disorder Support meets 2nd Tuesdays at 6 p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Meet others who are concerned about Tourette Syndrome, share experiences, ask questions, and learn more about the disorder. For more information, call 5460353 or e-mail TSgroupmontgomery@yahoo.com. 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 Joy Germanos, LCSW,

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March 2012

PIP, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 725-2542.

Moms Support

iConnect, Frazer Memorial UMC, 3rd Thursdays from 9-11:30 a.m. in the Parlor. Share life, encourage and be encouraged by other women. We meet for breakfast, fellowship and a speaker. Advance reservations are necessary for breakfast and preschool nursery. Cost is $5 per meeting. For more info or to make reservations, call Frazer’s Women’s Ministry at 495-6391 or e-mail Sandy Boswell at sandy@frazerumc.org La Leche League of Montgomery, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 2810 Atlanta Hwy., 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, babies and children also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please call or e-mail Bridgit (569-1500 or bridgitbroom@ gmail.com) Making Our Mothering Matter (MOMM), First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the fellowship hall at First Baptist Church in Prattville. We offer a time for fellowship, Bible study and special guest speakers. Cost is $5 per meeting to cover childcare expenses, crafts and operating expenses. Childcare reservations are required. For more info, call Stacie Pruitt at 361-3386. 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. Come join us on January 4 for a

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creative activity and discussion, and on January 18 to hear Trista Griggs speak about postpartum depression. Free childcare is provided. For more info, call Andrea McGregor at 799-7847, Laura Forman at 306-0352 or visit www.montgomeryfbc.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. MOPS is a non-denominational Christian organization open to all mothers of preschoolers, regardless of religious beliefs. The program does include childcare. For info, please call Shannon Melton at 280-2245.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

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

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.),

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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, 1st Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call 356-9048 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 Parents of Special Needs Children, Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, 1st Sundays, 5-6:30 p.m. Please notify Chris Henderson if you plan to come. (Home: 215-0427; e-mail: chenderson41@yahoo.com 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

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 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,

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Family Calendar 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. Youth Connection is also a program offered through the Family Guidance Center of Alabama. It is an eight-week support group for teenagers ages 12-16 that meets on Tuesday evenings from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Family Guidance Center, Building E. It is made possible to families free of charge through a grant from the Children’s Trust Fund of Alabama. Topics include building positive self-esteem, decision-making skills, resisting peer pressure, communication skills, anger management techniques, healthy relationships and goal-setting. In addition to the teen group, a parenting support group meets at the same time and location at no cost. Two counseling professionals facilitate these groups. For specific dates or to register, call Tammy Dozier at 269-0488, ext. 315, or e-mail tdozier@familyguidancecenter.org. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents. This group will begin March 29th using the life skills training. Contact Felicia Pressley at Total Life Connection 334-244-5061.

This Month Thursday, March 1

Landmark Church Missions Consignment Sale Through March 3 Proceeds from this sale contribute to the Landmark Church of Christ short-term mission teams fundraising. Items may be consigned with 1/3 of sales going to the mission teams and 2/3 of sales going back to the seller. There is a $6 consignor fee. Items to consign include children’s clothes for all seasons, toys, books for all ages, videos, furniture of all kinds, small kitchen appliances,

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maternity clothes, bags and more! Look for more information at www.landmarkchurch.net. Sonshine Soccer Registration at Frazer UMC Through March 9 Leagues are open to boys and girls ages 4-12 (as of March 1, 2012). Mandatory evaluations will be March 15 or 16 from 4-6 p.m. Games begin Saturday, April 14, with the season ending May 26. All games will be played Saturday mornings. Cost is $30 per child. If you do not have a jersey from last year, please add $20. If you need shin guards, please add $10. Register in the JEMAC Activity Center or call 495-6459 for more information. Parents can drop off their registration form and fee Monday-Thursday between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. or Friday 7 a.m-5 p.m. (Checks or cash only). Southeast YMCA Registration for Mini Soccer Through March 16 $40 for members and $80 for non-members. For 4- & 5-year-olds! The games begin on March 27 so register today! For more information, contact Jeremy Mead at jmead@ymcamontgomery.org or call 262-6411. Bell Road YMCA Boys and Girls Flag Football Registration -- Through March 16 Ages 7-15 years will be able to participate. $40 members and $80 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org or call 2714343. “My Spirit Speaks:” Arianne King Comer Exhibit at Troy University Rosa Parks Museum Through March 30 Vibrant colors, mesmerizing patterns, and beautiful images of the Caribbean and southern coastal United States are just some of the unique details that are found in the art of Charleston, SC batik artist Arianne King Comer. Practicing the ancient techniques of indigo dying and batik, Comer depicts her Gullah ancestry along with scenes

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of the Caribbean and Old South in her fabric art. A BFA graduate of Howard University, Comer has been an Artist in Residence on the Old Navy Base in North Charleston, SC since 2006. Call 241-8615 for more info. Alabama Women of the 19th Century Old Alabama Town. Celebration focusing on today’s women history makers. Guided tours available by reservation. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500. Boys and Girls T-Ball Registration at the Bell Road YMCA -- Through May 1 Cost is $40 for non-members and $80 for members. Games will be from May-June and the age group is 4-6-year-olds. For more info, contact James Garvin at jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org or call 271-4343.

Friday, March 2

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents The Little Mermaid -- Through March 4 Tickets range in price from $15- $30 and can be purchased three weeks prior to each performance date. Visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com or call 241-2590 for information on tickets. Late Night with YMCA Goodtimes Also March 9, 16, 23 & 30 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.

Saturday, March 3

Open House for Kumon Math and Reading Center of Montgomery-Southeast 10 a.m.-2 p.m. In Peppertree Shopping Center on 8125

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Family Calendar Vaughn Road. Kumon Centers nationwide and Reading is Fundamental (RIF) are partnering to provide more children access to books. For every enrollment in March, Kumon Centers will donate four books to children in need across the United States. For more information, please call 649-1178. 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 a speedster race car. 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. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Vince Gill 8 p.m. The singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist has recorded more than 17 studio albums, sold more than 26 million copies and won 20 Grammys and 18 Country Music Association Awards. Call the MPAC Box Office at 481-5100 to purchase your tickets or visit www.mpaconline.org. 4th Annual Alabaster Scholastic Chess Tournament in Birmingham Hosted by Thompson Intermediate School, 10019 Hwy 119, Alabaster. For more info, e-mail CaesarChess@ yahoo.com

Sunday, March 4

Mendelssohn’s Oratorio Elijah presented by the Montgomery Chorale, Orchestra and the East Alabama Chorale 2:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, 305 E. Perry St., Montgomery. Tickets $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors. For tickets and information visit www.montgomerychorale.org New Orleans Suspects Perform at The Capri 3 p.m. Sponsored by The Alabama Roots Music Society. The New Orleans Suspects create music firmly rooted in the modern New Orleans sound, and they perform both originals and covers. General admission is $10 in advance and $15 the day of the show, but only $8 for members of ARMS and the Capri Community Film Society. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Capitol Book and News in Cloverdale and at The Capri Theatre. Concessions will be available, so no coolers allowed.

Tuesday, March 6

Ed Asner as FDR at Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts 7 p.m. This powerful, one-man play follows the iconic president as he reflects on his years in office and takes us through FDR’s White House years including the Depression, the steps leading up to WWII and the war years. Asner is magnificent as FDR and delivers a fearless performance of the dynamic and powerful world leader. Visit Davis Theatre or call 241-9567 for tickets. MAX Capital City Classic Admission charged. Riverwalk Stadium. Auburn and Alabama compete in a baseball game with a football atmosphere. Enjoy Big Al, Aubie, bands and much more. 7:05 p.m. Call 323-0362 or visit www.maxcapitalcityclassic.com

Thursday, March 8

SPIRIT Presents Capital Sounds Concert Band Frazer United Methodist Church, Wesley Hall. Dinner at 6 p.m.; concert at 7 p.m. Capitol Sounds Orchestra and Choir will perform a variety of musical numbers including a great medley of George Gershwin music and Irving Berlin Tunes. Reservations for dinner are required by March 5. Please call Faye Jackson, 279-8727. Dinner is $5 but the concert is free. Southeastern Livestock Exposition Rodeo at Garrett Coliseum -- Through March 10 The “Greatest Show on Dirt” featuring bull-riding, calf-

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roping and more. Thursday and Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 & 7 p.m. Call 888-2RODEO2 or visit www.bamabeef. org for tickets.

Friday, March 9

Shopping Therapy 101 Clothes Swap Event 6:30-9:30 p.m., Camellia Baptist Church, 201 Woodvale Road, Prattville. Call (334) 365-0231. The $15 cover OR a bonus special $25 for 2 tickets, can be paid either through PayPal, or you can mail a check (with Clothes Swap in memo line) to Shellee Robbins, 47 Pine Forest Ct., Wetumpka, AL 36093. Tickets are limited to the first 150 ladies. If you are mailing a check, please e-mail shellee@shoppingtherapy101.com so we can hold your spot. “Living Money Smart” Homeschool Workshop 10 a.m.-noon. AUM Library Tower, 10th Floor, West Wing. Registration required. Free. This is a fun and engaging simulation of real-life scenarios that gives youth the opportunity to take a look into their financial future. This is not an AUM program so please do not call the campus for details. E-mail firefly5038@gmail. com or call (334) 557-5876 to request forms. Suitable for homeschool students aged 14 and older. 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. Bass Pro Shops Family Fishing Weekend -- Through March 11 Noon-5 p.m. every day. Free kids’ seminars, featuring using a spinning reel, bobbers, sinkers, live and artificial bait, fishing baskets and stringers; free kids’ crafts from noon-2 p.m. each day, including an alligator clip and wooden wiggle snake; free catch-and-release stocked fish pond; and free photo download of your kid’s catch. Visit www.bassproshops.com ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization) Monthly Meetings -- Also March 23 ECHO is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. The group usually meets the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Coosada Baptist Church on Coosada Road, Coosada. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museums Open in Wetumpka -- Weekends Through October 27 Japanese cherries, bulbs and many flowering shrubs are in bloom when the 20-acre Jasmine Hill Gardens opens for the season. Stroll through Greek statuary and enjoy the outdoors. Fri. & Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Call 567-6463 or visit www.jasminehill.org for info.

Saturday, March 10

Millbrook Community Players Indoor Yard Sale 7 a.m.-1 p.m. inside the theatre. Bring all your unwanted treasures and sell them inside a comfortable dry atmosphere. Spaces are available for the cost of $10 for a 10 x 10 or $15 for a 10 x 15. (No illegal or flammable items allowed) Reserve your booth by calling (334) 7827317. Visa, MasterCard or Discover accepted. Nothing to sell? Join us for bargains galore! Stephen Ministry Workshop at Aldersgate UMC 9 a.m.-1 p.m., featuring three sessions highlighting Stephen Ministry. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and refreshments will be served. Experience a sample of the training Stephen Ministers receive through two sessions, “Ministering to Those Experiencing Grief” and “How to Care in a Distinctively Christian Way.” The cost of this workshop is $15 per person or $50 for a group of four or more from the same congregation. Gather a group from your congregation to attend this informative workshop. For more information or to register, call Stephen Ministries at (314) 428-2600, or register at www.

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stephenministry.org/workshop 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. Baby Boot Camp Sponsored by Baptist Health An abbreviated version of the Childbirth Preparation/ Lamaze Class offered by Baptist Health. Registered nurse instructors discuss birthing methods (including Cesarean), comfort measures for labor, medications and anesthesia options (including epidurals), postpartum care and baby care basics. Coping techniques (including Lamaze) are included in this class. This class meets from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Baptist Breast Health Center Classroom, Winton Blount Blvd. The fee is $45. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, please call 273-4445. Maternity Area Tour @ Baptist Medical Center East A tour of the Labor/Delivery/Recovery (LDR), Postpartum and Nursery areas is offered to those not attending the Childbirth Preparation Class (a tour is provided as part of that class). Please meet in the main lobby of Baptist Medical Center East, 400 Taylor Rd., 10 minutes before the scheduled tour. The tour is at 10:30 a.m. Tour sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445. American Cancer Society Bark for Life: A Canine Event to Fight Cancer Winton M. Blount Cultural Park from 8-11 a.m. The American Cancer Society Bark For Life is a noncompetitive walk event for dogs and their owners to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer. The day begins with a walk, then continues with demonstrations, contests, games and vendors. Entry fees for Bark for Life are $20 per canine. Participants can register the day of the event starting at 8 a.m. or online at www.relayforlife.org/ barkmontgomeryal. For more information, please contact Suzanna Wasserman at (334) 612-8177 or suzanna.wasserman@cancer.org. Old Alabama Town Saturday Jam Sessions Also March 24 9 a.m.-noon at the 1840s Rose House. Musicians, bring your acoustic instruments and join the fun! Admission to the jam sessions is free; tickets to tour Old Alabama Town are available at the Reception Center. For more info, call 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com.

Sunday, March 11

Montgomery’s Ninth Annual Jewish Food Festival Sponsored by Temple Beth Or 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Most foods have been handmade by Temple members and include pastries such as rugelach, strudel and mondel bread; hot plates of brisket or pastrami; matzo ball soup; potato latkes; and quajado (spinach pie). “Imported” from New York are New York cheesecakes, direct from the famous Carnegie Deli and sold by the slice or cake. Admission and parking are free. For more info, visit www.templebethor.net. Living Faith Crusade in Montgomery -- Through March 14 Harvest Family Church at 7245 Copperfield Drive. Monday through Wednesday mornings at 10:30, Rev. Lynette Hagin will teach on prayer. Rev. Kenneth W. Hagin will minister in the Sunday through Wednesday evening services at 7 p.m. with the Wednesday evening service having a special emphasis on God’s healing power. Each service will feature music by the Rhema Singers and Band. Nursery thru Kinder childcare will be provided for all services. For more info, visit www.

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rhema.org/crusades or www.harvestfamilychurch.com or call 334-277-1156.

Tuesday, March 13

Foster Care Training at First Baptist Church 6-9 p.m. The training will run for 10 weeks and will be facilitated by the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home (ABCH). ABCH is expanding to the tri-county area and looking for Christian families who will be committed to providing a loving and stable home for a foster child. For information, please contact Bobbi Olson at 430-7569.

Wednesday, March 14

Prenatal Breastfeeding Class sponsored by Baptist Health Provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding. Partners are welcome to participate. Class meets 6-8:15 p.m. in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, Winton Blount Blvd. $15 per family. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445.

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(334) 27-12345

315 Ray Thorington Rd

Actual patient. Individual results will vary.

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Thursday, March 15

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring a lunch and drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “Hank Hung the Moon…And Warmed Our Cold, Cold Hearts,” presented by Rheta Grimsley Johnson. Call 3534726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Foster Care Information Meeting 6-8 p.m. Heritage Baptist Church, Montgomery.Agape of Central Alabama encourages any Christian interested in foster care to attend this informational dinner to learn more about caring for the younger generation. Cost: FREE but registration requested. E-mail info@ agapeforchildren.org or call 272-9466. Childcare will be provided for children up to 10 years old. Please specify children’s ages. For more info, contact Emily Thames at ewthames@agapeforchildren.org or 272-9466.

Friday, March 16

Tim Tebow Speaks at Cancer Benefit 7 p.m. at the Montgomery Renaissance. Tim Tebow, the Denver Broncos quarterback who spawned a cultural phenomenon this past NFL season with his unique style, come-from-behind wins and outwardly devout Christian beliefs, will be the guest speaker at a benefit for the Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama. The event is being presented by Baptist Health. Corporate sponsorships are available and a limited number of tickets will be made available at $100. To purchase tickets online, visit www.cancerwellnessevent.com.

Saturday, March 17

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Sponsors Anti-Bullying Workshop 1 p.m. Prattville Boys and Girls Club, Jensen Road. This workshop is part of the organization’s Z-HOPE (Zetas Helping Other People Excel) through Mind, Body and Spirit initiative. The workshop endeavors to find opportunities to protect area youth from bullying. Areas discussed will include: Name Calling, Physical Abuse, Racial Slurs, Threats, Rumors, Isolation and Cyber Threats. For more info, call: (334) 233-6348 or 399-8939 or e-mail: psilambdazeta@ymail.com Gigantic Flea Market in Prattville 6 a.m.-Noon. Doster Center. Call 361-3640. Alabama Nature Center General Public Weekend Also March 18 Enjoy hiking five miles of scenic ANC trails while learning about the fascinating natural history of central Alabama. You can even add to the outdoor experience with a tasty picnic under or around the ANC pavilion. Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. Call 285-4550 or visit www.alabamawildlife.org.

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Go GUARD while you get YOUR DEGREE • Money for College • Part-Time Service • Student Loan Repayment

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Family Calendar Sunday, March 18

Michael W. Smith in Concert at Frazer United Methodist Church 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5:15) Frazer UMC’s Wesley Hall. Tickets for the Multi-Dove and Grammy award-winning Christian artist are on sale now in the Frazer bookstore for $30 or online at www.itickets.com. Contact butch@ frazerumc.org for more information. Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Enjoy the Museum and a little jazz on a Sunday afternoon. Dessert, coffee and wine will be available for purchase. There is no charge to attend this event, but seating is limited. This event is partnered with Alabama Roots Music Society. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 2404333 for details. Spring Fling at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to this FREE Museum program! Families will work as a team in the studios to create fun “make and take” art projects related to temporary exhibitions in the galleries, or to works in the Museum’s Permanent Collection. Marvel at the vibrant artwork of Lois Mailou Jones and the exhibition of Birds of the Enlightenment. Then add your unique hand-made bird to the Museum “tree” and create patterned works of art in the studios. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333.

Monday, March 19

Infant Safety/CPR Sponsored by Baptist Health Also March 20 Childproofing methods, care of the choking infant, infant rescue breathing and infant CPR skills are covered with hands-on practices using ACTAR CPR doll for class participants. Class meets at 6 p.m. on designated Mondays or Tuesdays in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, Winton Blount Blvd. $10 per person. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Class sizes are limited and pre-registration is required. For info, 273-4445.

Thursday, March 22

Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon Women who are new residents in the area are invited to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, March 19, to Sheila Thomas at t_sheila@rocketmail.com or call 365-3463. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com. Millbrook Community Players Presents Father Knows Best -- Through March 31 The TV show you loved as a child is now on stage! Directed by Joe Nolin, Jr. Adapted by Kristin Sergel from the radio play by Edward James. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. March 22-24 and March 29-31 and 2 p.m. March 25. Getting her first date with Ralph wasn’t easy and Betty’s afraid it’ll be her last. After reading a newspaper story about teenage elopement, Father has decided he’d better get acquainted with the young man first. He asks the family what’s so awful about spending an evening at home? Nothing, but it seems that Bud, Kathy and even Mother have made plans to go out. Aggravated, Father puts his foot down and they all stay home. The town’s social life is suddenly centered on the Anderson household. The excitement and humorous complications grow and then, in the final scene, Father discovers that while he may know best, the young people know a little. Visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317 for tickets.

Friday, March 23

The Legends of Motown Featuring Horizon at Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts 7 p.m. Talented trio of vocalists Rick Ingram, Prentiss “Smoke” Jones and Earl Vinson will have the audience out of their seats dancing, remembering and wanting to hear it all over again. Horizon has been featured on the “Tonight Show” with Jay Leno and in Business Week

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Magazine. Horizon has shared the stage with many legendaries such as The Temptations and The Four Tops. Visit Davis Theatre or call 241-9567 for tickets.

Saturday, March 24

Broadway at the MPAC presents Bowfire 7:30 p.m. Bowfire is the total string experience. An ensemble of world-renowned musicians takes audiences on a journey that moves seamlessly from Jazz to Classical to Bluegrass to Celtic to Rock to World music. The unique combination of master musicians, choreography and vocals is complemented by stunning costumes and set design. Call the MPAC Box Office at 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org to purchase your tickets. Fountain City Arts Festival in Prattville 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Pratt Park. Free admission. Arts and entertainment for the whole family, including children’s hands-on arts pavilion, demonstrations, Prattville Pops, Prattville Community Chorus, Way Off Broadway Theatre, book signing and readings by Prattville author Nancy Goff, local dance troupes. Call (334) 358-0297 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov for details. Extreme Couponing Class Doster Community Center, Prattville. 9:30-11:30 a.m. More Bang for your Buck! Let instructor Stacey Roten show you how to stretch your dollar and get name brand items all while saving money, having fun, and even getting some products free! Fee: $20 per person. Pre-register by March 19. Call (334) 361-3640 for info or to register.

Sunday, March 25

Davina and The Vagabonds Perform at The Capri 3 p.m. This award-winning blues/jazz band, which has performed at many jazz and blues festivals in the Midwest and Europe, will make a rare southern appearance in Montgomery in a show sponsored by The Alabama Roots Music Society. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 the day of the show, but only $8 for members of ARMS and the Capri Community Film Society. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Capitol Book and News in Cloverdale and at The Capri Theatre. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Concessions will be available; no coolers allowed.

Monday, March 26

Babysitting Training Workshop -- Also March 27 Doster Community Center, Prattville. Ages 11-15. This course covers safety, first aid, professionalism, leadership and care-giving skills. Also includes tips for getting baby-sitting jobs. These courses cover certification I baby-sitters’ training and infant & child CPR. Hours are 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. both days. Bring your lunch on March 26. Lunch will be provided on March 27. Fees are $100 (includes baby-sitter’s handbook, baby-sitter’s pin, class material and baby-sitter’s backpack, plus lunch on the last day only). Check payable to: American Red Cross. Call 361-3640 to pre-register! Childbirth Preparation/Lamaze sponsored by Baptist Health -- Mondays through April 23 Registered nurse instructors discuss birthing methods (including Cesarean), comfort measures for labor, medications and anesthesia options (including epidurals), postpartum care and baby care basics. Coping techniques (including Lamaze) are included. Expectant couples participating in this comprehensive class series will attend class once a week for five consecutive weeks. This class meets 6-8 p.m. in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, 6880 Winton Blount Blvd. Fee is $60. Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445.

Saturday, March 31

Sixth Annual “Bite the Tail off Cancer” Crawfish Boil at Train Shed at Union Station 6-9 p.m. Hosted by the Junior Executive Board (JEB) of the American Cancer Society. Fun event for ages 18

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and up! Attendees can enjoy All you Can Eat Crawfish, Sausage, Corn and Potatoes. And for those that don’t enjoy this Cajun treat, general admission tickets will be available, and food vendors will be on hand with food to purchase. Attendees will enjoy live music throughout the night. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.jebmontgomery.org or call 612-8177. Zoo Weekend 2012 -- Also April 1 Annual event the Montgomery Zoo has been presenting for 35 years. There will be entertainment, games and animals. Everyone can enjoy the many activities, fantastic food and have fun together at an affordable price. 9 a.m.6 p.m. both days. Visit www.montgomeryzoo.com Cottontail Express at Heart of Dixie Railroad in Calera -- Also April 7 Welcome spring with a train ride to Peter Cottontail’s meadow. Hunt for Easter eggs and take photos with the Easter Bunny. Coloring, jump station and other kids’ activities. 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. Call (205) 382-3946 or visit www.HODRRM.org

Tuesday, April 3

Broadway at the MPAC presents “Come Fly Away” 7:30 p.m. “Come Fly Away” is the new Broadway musical that brings together the legendary vocal of Frank Sinatra and the creative vision of Tony Award-winner Twyla Tharp. This one-of-a-kind experience combines the seductive vocals of “Ol’ Blue Eyes” with the sizzling sound of a live on-stage big band and the visceral thrill of Tharp’s choreography. As 14 of the world’s best dancers tell the story of four couples falling in and out of love, you will experience the exhilaration of a first kiss, the excitement of a first dance, and the bittersweet moments of a first good-bye in a world of sparkling romance and astonishing beauty. “Come Fly Away” features a host of beloved Sinatra classics, including “Fly Me to the Moon,” “My Way,” “New York, New York” and “Witchcraft.” Call the MPAC Box Office at 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org to purchase tickets. “Your Amazing Newborn” Class Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. FREE. One-night class taught by a pediatrician and nursing staff. Presents new concepts in newborn care and helps alleviate parenting jitters by soon-to-be parents. Grandparents welcome. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson. org/events.

Saturday, April 7

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Presents Health Fair 2012 Family-friendly community service event! 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Cleveland Ave YMCA, 1201 Rosa Parks Ave Diabetes, High Blood Pressure Screenings, Deputy Dave, ZUMBA w/the DFC, Face Painting, Wellness Resources and more! Non-perishable foods will be accepted at the door. Contact Mrs. Ashley: (334) 322-0475 / (334) 213-0051. Saturday Walking Tours -- Also April 14, 21 & 28 Cities across the state are offering free guided walking tours at 10 a.m. each Saturday morning during the month of April. In Montgomery, the starting location is the Visitor Center; in Prattville, it is the Autauga County Heritage Center; and in Wetumpka, it is the Chamber of Commerce.

Calendar information due by the 15th of each month. Send an email to editor@ montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Our treatment approach is effective and affordable. Our mission is to bring hope to our patients and their families and lead them on the path to recovery.

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Business Card Directory

Amber Holley Owner/Operator

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Rachelle’s Salon & Boutique Cut’s for men, women, & kids Color, highlights, waxing, & more...

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Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! Montgomery Parents I March 2012

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Home Based Business Directory Usborne Books for Kids Great, educational books for kids of all ages. Contact me to order, or to host a home/school show and earn FREE books! www.readgrowlove.com lovedwifey1708@gmail.com

Party Supplies and Decor Reception décor linen and party rental. We specialize in custom chair covers and beautiful table cloths, drapery, and custom decor for balls, weddings, and parties. We set up and take down; you don’t lift a finger. Call today at 205-527-6275! Receptiondecor01@bellsouth.net www.receptiondecor01.com

Chemistry Tutor

(current LAMP teacher) Clarence Hann IV 334-315-7070 channiv@yahoo.com

Natural Approach to Pain

Independent, Professional, Experienced, Excellent References, Reasonable Rates and Free Estimates Call 334-782-7859 Mary’s Home Day & Night Care

Geeks Rule Tutoring

Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

Tiger & Tots Daycare

Without Detergent or Fabric Softeners / No Hot Water Average family saves about $500/per year Call Judi for details at 334-220-7229.

Sherrie’s House Cleaning

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Advanced Placement Chemistry Honors Chemistry General Chemistry

Laundry

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

Computer Services and Support PCs, Laptops, Networks, Virus and Spyware Removal, Wireless, Security Certified Tech’s Backup and Recovery, Pickup and Delivery. Call 334-467-5538

Katie Garner Experience in arithmatic, pre-alegebra, algebra, trig, geometry, precalc, and calculus. Affordable rates, no contract. Call 334-322-7791.

Provides breastfeeding education, antepartum doula services, childbirth education, and Happiest Baby on the Block classes. Handmade breastfeeding greeting cards and breast pump rental services also available. For more info please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-782-9816. Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com

Piano Teacher

Find pain relief with a natural approach, without the side effects of drugs. Relief for issues like inflammation, arthritis, and more. Money back guarantee. Who do you know that is suffering that would like help? Make money from home helping others.

Keeping newborns to 6 years Licensed by DHR 25 years CPR & First Aid Certified Lots of TLC Teach ABCs and 123s, etc. 284-1168 or cell 399-9772 Drop-ins welcome.

Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training

Openings for children ranging from 0-12 years in a tender, loving and caring Christian home. 2 meals and 2 snacks provided For more info, please contact (334) 269-1915. References available upon request.

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

Grant Home & Janitorial

“Where quality service is always guaranteed at an affordable rate” Move Ins/Move Outs, Homes, Apartments, Churches, Commercial Daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, ONE TIME CLEAN UPS

Call Michelle Grant at 334-207-0665 or email michelle.grantjanitorial@gmail.com for a free estimate. LICENSED & INSURED

Lucky Lawns

Top quality lawn care for your home and business! Dependable tri-county service. Call James today at 424-2974 for a free estimate. 20% off for referrals!

Fuller Guitar Works

“The custom shop for the working musician.” Does your guitar or bass need repair? Do you want a custom guitar that is built to your needs and specifications? Specializing in affordable guitar and amp maintenance, guitar repair and setup and custom guitar builds. Call Danny at 334-414-4759. fullerguitarworks@gmail.com www.fullerguitarworks.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/fullerguitarworks

ProMath Tutoring

ProMath Tutoring: Dr. Joan N. Powell 30+ years experience, Grades 1 thru college

I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 6 years. Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183

Subjects: General Math - Pre-calculus Finite, Math for Elem. Ed.; Statistics (Basic, Business, Graduate) & Standardized test preparation 334.244.6681 Home 334.233.4559 Cell jpowell@aum.edu

BJ’s Cleaning Service

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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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HELPFUL

Advertising Information

RESOURCES M o n t g o m e r y P a r e n t s ’ Advertiser Directory

Welcome to the Montgomery Parents’ Advertiser Directory. This section was created to help our readers easily access advertising information in our magazine. 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. A Great Start Learning Academy, 33 Ace Bowling Center, 81 Adventure Sports II, 37 Alabama Army National Guard, 105 Alabama Christian Academy, 45 Ala Dept of Public Health, Inside Front, 7 Aldersgate UMC Child Care, 67 Arts in Motion, 18 ASKIN/Synergy House, 108 ASU Cont. Education Camp, 75 AUM Continuing Education, 78 Auditory/Visual Enhancement, 49 Baptist Health Services, 85 Betsy Echols, Realty Central, 109 Born Boutique, 103 Bradford Health Services, 107 Brit Snap Photography, 59 Cancer Care Center, 4 Carriage Hills Animal Hospital & Pet Resort, 58 Chantilly Veterinary Clinic, 43 Chapman Orthodontics, 101 Churchill Academy, 17 Club Z At-Home Tutoring, 18 Coastal Conservation, 39 Community of Christ Church, 93 Cottage Rental Agency, 61 Dana Coats Mabry, Life Coach, 109 Dancewear, Etc., 108 Deborah Batson Photography, 99 Dentistry for Children, 48 Disney Live, 3 Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 27 Donna Young, Supreme Landing, 108 Doodlebugs, 41 Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 28 Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 30 Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 100 E & S Hobbies, Inc., 110 Eastdale Mall, 13 Edgewood Academy, 28 Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 100 Embellish, 32 Montgomery Parents I March 2012

Evangel Christian Academy, 20 Family Karate Center, 1 Faulkner University Paralegal Degree, 31 First Baptist Church, P’ville, 38 First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 95 First UMC Montgomery, 36 First UMC Prattville, 105 Fleming’s Martial Arts, 41 Flowers Learning Center, 109 Frazer UMC Easter, 97 Freestyle Motorcross, 24 Grant Home & Janitorial, 110 Greengate School, 72 Heart of Dixie Railroad, 26 Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 78 Huntingdon Football Camp, 69 Huntington Learning Center, 35 Joy to Life, Walk of Life, Inside Back Cover KLynn Ice Skating School, 48 Kingry Orthodontics, 63 Kumon, 8 Lagoon Park Golf, 101 Lakeview Baptist Church, 42 Learning Tree Child Care, 98 Lil Pea Pod Boutique, 105 Loved Again, 35 Macon East Montgomery Academy, 51 Majorettes Baton Twirling and Dance, 79 Mareonta’s Fashion, 109 Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 87 MKA Women’s Consignment, 21 Montessori @ Hampstead, 46 Montessori @ Mulberry, 21 Montessori Academy, 53 Montgomery Catholic Schools, 47 Montgomery Humane Society, 9 Montgomery Multiples Club, 25 Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 77 Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 59 Montgomery Taekwondo, 108 Montgomery Zoo, 86 Mrs. Sandy’s House, 108 111

Mt. Meigs Accelerated Christian Academy, 26 My Kids Attic, The Shoppes at, 19 Name Dropper/Storkland, 24 New Park, 83 Paint and Clay, 77 Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters, 109 Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 37 Petrunic Orthodontics, 27 Professional Pediatrics, 12 Pump It Up Party, 93 Rachelle’s Salon & Boutique, 109 Riverview Camp, 71 Rolling Video Games of AL, 45 Rosa Parks Museum, 76 Saint James School, 25 Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 74 Sew Bernina, 65 Shade Tree Riding Academy, 67 Shark Tooth Creek, 43 Smart Smiles, 105 Smiles Galore Parties, 87 Southlawn Childcare Center, 64 Spacewalk of Montgomery, 47 Spacewalker, The, 64 Spotless Cleaning Services, 11 St. Bede Child Development Center, 30 St. Bede Summer Camp, 79 Success Unlimited Academy, 23 Sunny Side Child Care, 77 Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital, 65 Taylor Made Gaming, 103 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 89 The Big Green Bus, 108 The Dance Fitness Center, 108 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover The Waters, 2 Treasures of Life, 63 Trinity Presbyterian School, 15 Twisted Spur, 33 United Family Services Outreach, 108 Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 44 Vaughn Urgent Care, 99 William Frye Photography, 102 www.montgomeryparents.com

Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax

Gone

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax PG for brief mild language. Twelve-year-old Ted (voice of Zac Efron) lives on a perfectly manicured street lined with blow-up bushes, battery-operated trees and plastic flowers that never fade. Typical of many tween boys, he’s wildly infatuated with the high school girl that lives in the neighborhood. Like any guy overcome with adolescent yearning, he’s willing to do almost anything to win her affection. In this case, what Audrey (voice of Taylor Swift) wants more than anything is to see a real tree. Sneaking outside the shield of Thneed-Ville’s city walls, Ted rides his motorized bike through a stinky, decimated, stump-strewn landscape until he comes to the home of the Once-ler (voice by Ed Helms). Coaxing information out of the hermit with a payment of “15 cents, a nail and the shell of a great, great, great grandfather snail”, Ted discovers the disturbing truth behind the disappearance of the colorful, cotton candyshaped Truffula tress. Setting out to make his fortune, The Once-ler had big dreams. But he was no Johnny Appleseed. Instead he allowed himself to be overcome by ambition. And while he cut down the forest in the name of progress, the mysterious Lorax (voice by Danny DeVito), guardian of the trees, stood by needling the boy’s conscience with a mournful look. Fueling kids’ films with an environmental message isn’t bad. Hopefully if anything, it will inspire the next generation to solve today’s problems. But settling for oversimplified, polarizing answers is unfair. “Plant a tree, save the world” likely won’t cut it when it comes to developing environmentally sustainable solutions for the future. On the other hand, while the message often feels heavy-handed (and may be as controversial as the book was when it released in 1971), the filmmakers have festooned this tale with stunning 3D animation, idyllic forest creatures and enough side jokes to entertain most kids and adults. And though Dr. Seuss’ gloomy fable of the Lorax falls far short of providing any balanced, real world remedies, with any luck it may encourage families to talk about steps they can personally take to curb their own consumerism and preserve nature in their own backyards.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: CSexual Content: C+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Gone PG-13 for violence and terror, some sexual material, brief language and drug references. There’s a hole in this movie -- a great big hole in the middle of the forest where a madman dumps kidnapped women before he kills them. At least that’s what Jill Conway (Amanda Seyfried) claims. She maintains she was abducted from her bed and hauled off to the woods where hikers found her dirty and half-delusional a few days later. A year later when Jill returns from her night shift to find her sister Molly (Emily Wickersham) missing, she is convinced her kidnapper has returned. She demands Portland police officer Sgt. Powers (Daniel Sunjata) and his colleagues (Katherine Moenning, Wes Bentley, Michael Paré) start an immediate search for the girl. Yet Sgt. Powers is skeptical. With no trace of forcible entry or other signs of struggle, Jill’s story seems sketchy, especially considering her history of mental illness. And that’s where other holes in this script begin to become apparent. Though she refuses to let her co-worker walk alone to her car, Jill parks blocks away from her own workplace. She talks with someone on the phone in an area where cell phone service isn’t available. And within hours after the police refuse to help, Jill wheedles enough information out of her noncooperative neighbors, a drowsy locksmith and an injured janitor, to construct a profile of the assumed assailant and get a cell phone number. Then she’s off, all alone, into the forest where she was held hostage, to find Molly. The lack of any tangible evidence in the case of the missing Molly makes it easy to understand why police are leery to launch a full-scale search like they did when Jill was found. But as a result, authority figures in this female vigilante story appear uncaring, cynical and even slightly suspect themselves, as does nearly everyone Jill encounters during her manhunt. In addition to the leaps in logic, the script contains profanities, a strong sexual expletive and the discussion of alcohol and drug abuse. But maybe most frightening is the justification Gone gives Jill for taking justice into her own hands.

What Parents need to know about Gone...

Violence: Flashbacks of a kidnapped girl are repeatedly shown. A character is stabbed with a sharp object. Characters are injected with a sleep-inducing drug, shot, set on fire and murdered. Decomposing body parts are discovered along with pictures of bound and gagged victims. A character threatens others with a gun. A woman attempts to outrun police. Sexual Content: A silhouette of a naked woman in a shower is seen. An unmarried couple’s discussion insinuates a sexual relationship. A police officer talks about his sexual activities with his sister-in-law. A character intrudes on a man and finds his gay partner who is in bed. Language: The script includes a strong sexual expletive used in a non-sexual context along with profanities, scatological slang, a crass term for male anatomy, and terms of Christian Deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters discuss a woman’s alcohol abuse problem as well as another’s illegal drug habit. A girl takes prescription pills.

What Parents need to know about Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax...

Violence: The film contains numerous depictions of slapstick and cartoon-like violence. A man is knocked over when a large inflatable explodes. A tween is almost injured by abandoned axes. Characters are kicked, slapped, hit on the head, smacked with objects, threatened, shocked from static, punched, and put in peril. Animals are exposed to environmental toxins and enticed with junk food. Sexual Content: A boy imagines kissing a girl. Later she pecks him on the cheek. Language: Some mild name-calling is included. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. www.montgomeryparents.com

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The Montgomery Academy admits students of any race, religion, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school.