Montgomery Parents September 2013 by KeepSharing

New Family Fun

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Chuck E. Cheese’s Now Open Sun–Thurs 9am–10pm | Fri–Sat 9am–11pm

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S Friday, September 20 7:00 pm Featuring Kirk Special Music Guest

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Tickets available at FBC Montgomery, www.feedyourfaith.org or by phone 800.965.9324.

MOPS Meeting Dates for 2013/2014

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September 10 & 24 • October 8 & 22 • November 5 & 19 December 10 • January 14 & 28 • February 11 & 25 March 11 & 18 • April 8 & 22 • May 6 Join us for a fun time of fellowship and learning with great speakers and activities. MOPS is a place for encouraging relationships, practical help, and support. Join us on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 am. Childcare provided. Contact us at montgomerymops@gmail.com

Join us for these events plus many more! First Baptist Church Montgomery

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

305 South Perry4Street | Montgomery, AL 36104 www.montgomeryparents.com 334.834.6310 | www.montgomeryfbc.org

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Volume 18 Number 9

58 Columns

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

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

12 Kids Health Watch

School Year Tips for Parenting a Child with ASD

Special Needs Resource Guide

Help for facing specific challenges in the classroom.

Local & national organizations are available to help.

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New with the Flu? A five-year-old boy presents to the pediatricianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office with complaints of high fever at 104 F, headaches, chills, severe body aches, sore throat, nausea, dry cough and lethargy. There are several other children in his kindergarten with similar symptoms. Evaluation in the office reveals the diagnosis of influenza type A. The 2013-2014 flu seasons will be here soon! In the United States it can begin as early as October and last as late as May. It usually peaks in January and February. Before the onset of the flu season, receiving an annual flu vaccine either in the form of an injection or a nasal spray is the best way to prevent the acquiring and spreading of the disease. Health care providers should begin offering vaccinations as soon as it is available and, if possible, by October. There are two major types of vaccines: the injectable inactivated influenza vaccines abbreviated as IIV3 or IIV4 and the nasal spray live-attenuated influenza vaccine abbreviated LAIV3 or LAIV4. Both injectable and nasal spray vaccines have influenza A and B in them. The trivalent vaccines IIV3 and

LAIV3 have two sera types of A (H1N1 and H3N2) and one sera type of B (Victoria). The new quadrivalent vaccines (IIV4 and LAIV4) available in injectable and nasal spray this fall have the same sera type compositions as the trivalent vaccines plus an additional type B (Yamagata). Hopefully the quadrivalent vaccines will provide broader flu coverage for type B this season. There are major differences between IIV and LAIV. The IIV contain inactivated viruses and cannot cause influenza or illness. It is indicated for all ages starting at six months The LAIV contain live attenuated influenza viruses that have the theoretical potential to cause mild signs and symptoms of the flu in healthy people and worse symptoms in people that have chronic health conditions. It is indicated for healthy non-pregnant people without significant health problems from 2yrs-49yrs. Who should receive the influenza vaccine this year? According to the CDC the following: 1) All persons ages six months and older; 2) All children ages six months to eight months who did not receive a total of two or more doses of seasonal flu vaccine since July 1, 2010 need to receive their first dose as soon as the vaccine becomes available and their second dose four weeks later; 3) Adults and

children who have chronic medical problems which would be made worse by contracting the flu. These conditions include pulmonary disease such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, cardiac disease such as congestive heart failure, congenital heart disease, renal disease such as renal failure, transplants, hepatic such as hepatitis, metabolic such as diabetes; 4) hematologic and neurologic diseases; 5) Persons immunosuppressed; 6) Pregnant women during flu season; 7) Health care professionals. In summary, most healthy children who catch the flu will recover in a few days to two weeks, but some will develop complications such as pneumonia which can become a serious life threatening illness. Other less serious complications such as ear infections, sinusitis, and bronchitis are fairly common resulting in frequent doctor visits. The risks of contracting the flu and its complications can be significantly reduced by vaccination. Please have members of your family who are six months and older vaccinated! Dr. Drennen earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1975 and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine in Loveland, Colorado. He then practiced in Ozark, Alabama before coming to Professional Pediatrics in 1998. He and his wife Rebecca have two sons. The entire family enjoys downhill skiing and beach activities.

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

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

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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School is back in session after the summer break, but not everyone who works for Montgomery Public Schools gets a summer vacation - especially those professionals who work in our operations department. Our maintenance, security and logistics employees work year round and they have been very busy this summer. When you think of schools, most people think of our teachers and administrators. But behind the scenes is a small army of professionals who work tirelessly to keep the air conditioning running, supplies flowing, and our buildings safe and in good condition. Many upgrades and maintenance issues have been on hold for years due to reductions in state funding – so we have some catching up to do. This summer 44 of our 55 campuses received attention from our staff. Projects

ranged from pressure washing buildings to remodeling, renovations and the replacement of systems. Here is just a small sample of the hundreds of projects that took place: • Vaughn Road: Remodeled and renovated kitchen, replaced carpet with tile in two classrooms. • Davis Elementary: Repaired heating system, removed carpet – refinished some wood floors. • Jefferson Davis High: Painted exterior and some interior walls. • Lanier High: Renovated kitchen, pressure washed front of building. • Flowers Elementary: Repaired heating system, refinished some floors. • Forest Avenue: Repaired heating system, painted auditorium and lunchroom. • Lee High: Painted front doors, replaced kitchen equipment. • Loveless Academic Magnet Program: Pressure washed the front of the building. • Floyd Elementary: Kitchen remodeled, floors refurnished, painted six bathrooms. • Brewbaker Tech: Repaired driveway, parking lot restriped.

• AC units were replaced at Southlawn Elementary, Booker T. Washington High, Floyd Elementary, MacMillan Elementary, and McKee Middle schools. • Security systems were upgraded in many of our schools and fire alarms, emergency lighting and emergency equipment were all tested in every school. We would like to thank the more than 1,000 volunteers coordinated by the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce who worked to clean and beautify our campuses just before school opened. I would also like to thank all the professionals in their departments for their outstanding work this summer and each day. Their hard work allows us to provide clean and comfortable classrooms where our teachers teach and our students learn. Barbara W. Thompson is Montgomery County Schools’ superintendent. She has served children as a teacher, curriculum leader, elementary principal, and supervisor of secondary alternative and at-risk programs. Superintendent Thompson’s skill as an educator has garnered her several professional honors. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the American Association of School Administrators and the Board of the School Superintendents of Alabama.

Join us for a celebration of God’s goodness through praise and worship, followed by a life-applicable Biblebased teaching by senior pastor John Schmidt via video. Come casual and enjoy our service that starts at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday at the Jim Wilson YMCA at New Park. Nursery and children’s program provided.

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

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Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Sophomore Attends Georgetown Summer Program

Covenant Kids Celebrate Summer with Picnic

The three-year-old class at Covenant Kids, taught by Ms. Brandy, celebrated summer with a picnic on the playground. It was a treat for the children to bring lunchboxes and enjoy a special lunch together. For more info about Covenant Kids, call 356-9110.

PICE Golf Tournament Tees Off September 27

Partners In Catholic Education (PICE) will host its 13th annual charity golf tournament at the Capitol Hill Robert Trent Jones Golf Course in Prattville September 27. Sponsorship packages are available from $250 to $5,000. These packages offer great promotional opportunities for businesses in the form of pre- and post-event publicity, event banners, golf tee signage and golf cart logos, as well as players in the tournament. The registration fee is $150 per player. Entry fee is $600 per foursome. Registration and lunch will begin at 11 a.m. and the shotgun start, on both the Senator and Legislator courses, will be at 1 p.m. Format will be best ball. The registration fee includes lunch, green fees, cart, range balls, gift bags for each player, golf shirt, refreshments on the course, post-tournament food and beverages, and many door prizes. Also, all par three holes will have a prize, plus four Hole-In-Ones consisting of a new car on both courses and cash prizes of $20,000 or $40,000. There will be a $5,000 putting contest between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and the top three net and gross teams will receive superb prizes. For more info about sponsorships or playing in our tournament, contact Liz Sutton at (334) 260-2488, ext 1311, Vicki Dickson at (334) 272-7221, ext 32, or Jerry Lopez at (334) 224-6607. More information can also be located at http://www. montgomerycatholic.org/. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Trinity Presbyterian School sophomore Sydney Snowden recently returned from a summer program at Georgetown University, where she studied American Politics. Snowden was one of 105 high school students from across the nation chosen to participate in the prestigious program. She attended lectures from various Georgetown professors, participated in a mock government capstone project, and visited with several government officials, including Trinity graduate, U.S. Rep. Martha Roby. Snowden spoke with Roby, who represents Alabama’s Second District in the U.S. House, in a discussion on women in politics. She also enjoyed an impromptu meeting with U.S. Rep. Michelle Bachmann while dining at Washington D.C.’s Café Milano. The two spent a few minutes discussing educational options that would prepare Snowden for a future in politics. Her passion for politics and government has led Snowden to serve as a legislative page for Alabama District 88 Rep. Paul Beckman for the past two years. After graduating from Trinity, she intends to pursue a law degree that will eventually help her launch a candidacy for national office, including possibly the presidency! Snowden is shown with U.S. Rep. Michelle Bachmann.

Forest Avenue Student Catches First Shark

Bobby Price, a first-grader at Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School, filled his summer with unique learning experiences. While on vacation at Ft. Morgan, Price caught several Atlantic Sharp Nose Sharks. He has read numerous books and watched sharks on Animal Planet, but this was his first opportunity to catch and hold a living shark. Forest Avenue inspires students to be curious and learn through experiences. Price takes this philosophy to heart and said he would love to go on an archaeological dig for dinosaurs next year.

Eastwood Sixth-Graders Sign Classroom Constitution

Have you ever imagined what it would have been like to have signed the United States Constitution? Students in Mrs. Joki’s sixth-grade homeroom at Eastwood Christian School took the opportunity to sign their classroom Constitution during the first week. Shown back to front are Hayden Pritchett, Elle Foxx, Virginia Puckett, Amy Parker, Helen Ann Herndon, Millie Hodge, Aubrey Grace, Elliott Mangrum, Will Reed, Asa Button and Brock Woodham. 16

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Montgomery County Schools

Macon East Hosts Volleyball Camp

The Macon East Academy Lady Knights volleyball team hosted a camp this summer for girls in grades 1-12. Two-time state champion coach Amanda Smallwood welcomed 24 girls attending the three-day camp. Coach Smallwood and the varsity volleyball girls taught the basics of the game and getting to know the up-and-coming volleyball stars. “I knew they were teaching us to be good at volleyball, and I loved it,” said firstgrade participant Alana Smallwood. “My favorite part was blanket ball, and I had fun with all the older volleyball girls.”

Representative Wren Presents Resolution Honoring LAMP

Representative Greg Wren (R-Montgomery) presented Loveless Academic Magnet Program Principal Mary George Jester with a resolution highlighting LAMP’s recent recognition by U.S. News and World Report. LAMP was named the #1 Magnet School in the U.S. and the #1 High School in Alabama!

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Hooper JV Cheerleaders Win State Championships

Hooper Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s JV cheerleaders won State Championships West Small Squad at AISA summer camp! From left are JV cheerleaders Haley Reynolds, Jessika Wallace, Charity Bowden, Coach Donna Maxwell, Madeline Maxwell, Laura Gravely, Abby Brasington and Haleigh Gill. They were named West Small Squad State Champions; 1st place Home Pom; 1st place Extreme; 1st place Cheer; 1st place Sideline; Gameday Champion; and Top Banana. UCA All Americans were Jessika

Wallace, Charity Bowden, Madeline Maxwell and Laura Gravely. Varsity cheerleaders include Mackenzi Hill, Ashley Jones, Abby Watts, Morgan Maxwell, Anabeth Milstead and Kamy Cobb. They received 1st place Home Pom; 1st place Extreme; 1st place Cheer; 1st place Sideline; Gameday Champion; and Top Banana. AISA All Star was Mackenzi Hill. Hooperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s varsity and JV cheerleaders also enjoyed UCA Flashback Rally at Summer Camp at Huntingdon College! The Colts brought back the Old West along with their mascot Hoop Jr.!

Evangel Students Add Extra Spanish

The elementary students at Evangel Christian Academy will have an extra day in Spanish class this year. Twice a week, students from the kindergarten classes through sixth grade enjoy attending this special enrichment class. Martha Blount, the teacher for this class, lived abroad in Mexico and is excited about the opportunity to share the language and culture with the eager elementary students.

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Montgomery County Schools

Ten New Teachers Join STJ Faculty Ranks

Holy Cross Holds Annual Back to School Pool Party

Holy Cross Episcopal School students always look forward to the annual backto-school pool party at Deer Creek Pool. It’s a time of food, fellowship and fun for the families of Holy Cross and gives students a chance to catch up with their peers after a long summer break. Fifthgraders are shown having a fun time by the pool.

Saint James School has added ten new faculty and staff members for the 2013-14 academic year that began Aug. 8. The new employees span the K3-12th grade spectrum at the school. In STJ’s preschool, Mandy Dubina and Megan Stephenson will teach K3 and K4, respectively. In the elementary school, Erin Edwards will teach second grade, Aubrey Blackwell is the school’s new elementary physical education instructor, and Christina Waggoner will facilitate and instruct elementary students in using iPods, iPads and iMacs in grades K-5. In the middle school, Elizabeth Harber will teach sixth-grade literature and Leigh Anne Potts begins serving the school as administrative assistant. June Garzon will teach high school physical science and physics, and Rhea Grate is the high school French instructor. Deborah Otis is the school’s new 21st Century Learning Specialist. J.B. Copeland is the new the middle school principal, while Cathy Pearson has become the new Dean of Admissions. In addition to the new instructors, some faculty members have begun teaching in new positions. Becky Dickens is teaching half-day K4, Zach Beard makes the switch to teaching fourth grade, and Courtney Whigham begins teaching middle school physical science.

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

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Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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ACA Introduces New Look And Branding

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As Alabama Christian Academy inaugurates its 2013-14 school year, it is also introducing a new look and brand. The school, which celebrated its 70th year in 2012, worked closely with creative consultancy Copperwing Design to craft a new brand identity, including a revised school logo, updated website at www.alabamachristian.com and new positioning: “Thrive in wisdom. Serve in spirit.” “The positioning really sums up our mission here at Alabama Christian Academy,” said ACA President Ronnie Sewell. “Academic excellence is extremely important for the development of our future leaders and citizens. But alone, it’s not enough. Along with that focus, we integrate the formation of faith and character in all we do, from the classroom to the athletic field. The wisdom they learn here, they bring out into the world in service to God and others. Academically, socially and spiritually – we want them to thrive.” The main theme of the new logo for Alabama Christian Academy is the foundational strength of Christ-centered learning, represented by a shield and centered cross. The interlocking “ACA” letters symbolize the unified mission of the student body, faculty and administration, and parents to support every child in achieving success – in academics, athletics, arts, service programs and any other pursuit of excellence. The eagle landing atop the crest is a reminder that students’ courage and inspiration to excel are provided by, and ordered to, the Glory of God. While ACA’s logo has been reinvented, student uniforms and spirit wear will remain the same for the 2013-2014 academic year.

2013

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Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Cheerleading Squads Receive Awards at Camp

All three Trinity Presbyterian cheerleading squads attended the UCA cheer camp in Auburn May 29-June 1. Trinity was well represented at the 2013 UCA Cheer Camp, winning in all three “Jump-Off” divisions and all three squads boasting “All-Americans.” The Middle School squad placed 1st in the home dance, 2nd in the camp dance, 2nd in cheer category, and 2nd in the sideline cheer category. Sydney Kate Welch was selected as All-American and Anna Tucker was the “Jump-Off” winner for the entire camp in the Middle School division. The Junior Varsity (JV) squad placed 1st in the camp dance, 1st in the cheer category, 1st in the sideline category, and 2nd in the home dance. Wallace Bryan, Mary Emily Byrd, Mary Margaret Easterling, Sarah Kate Etheredge and Caroline Wood were selected as All-Americans. Lizzie Sanders was the “Jump-Off” winner for the entire

camp in the JV division and was also selected as a model cheerleader. The Varsity squad placed 1st in the home dance, 2nd in the camp dance, 3rd in the cheer category, and won the “Traditions” award. This award is voted on by the UCA staff and given to a squad that sets a great example to other camp participants and who the UCA staff really enjoyed teaching. Catherine Meriwether and Harrison Robertson were selected as All-Americans. Shea Henry was the “Jump-Off” winner for the entire camp in the Varsity division. Shea Henry, Sidney Richards, Harrison Robertson and Claire Wood were selected as model cheerleaders. Harrison Robertson was asked to try out for the UCA staff. Varsity Cheerleading Squad members are, front row from left: Shea Henry, Grace Day, Greyson Matthews and Sidney Richards; and back: Claire Wood, Katrina King, Annelise Patterson, Catherine Meriwether, Harrison Robertson, Liz Clements and Coach Erin Bradshaw (’99). Junior Varsity Cheerleading Squad members are, front row from left: Emmalyne Phillips, Wallace Bryan, Lauren Hemmings, Mary Grace Etheredge and Ensley Craven; and back: Mary Stuart Tipton, Anne Macon Adams, Mary Margaret Easterling, Mary Emily Byrd, Sarah Kate Etheredge, Caroline Wood, Lizzy Sanders and Coach Alicia Frazier. Middle School Cheerleading Squad members are, front row from left: McKenzie Parker, Anna Tucker, Kelsey Franklin, McKenna Franklin, Bailey Blake and Sydney Kate Welch; and back: Coach Erika Mebius, Mary Frances Green, Kayla Pittman, Loren Potts, Catherine Parma, Mary Pruitt Mantel, Hazen Finlay, Elizabeth Portis and Caroline Easterling. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Academy’s Upper School Chorus Chosen for Prestigious Conference

The Montgomery Academy Upper School Chorus was recently selected to perform at the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) 2014 Southern Division conference in Jacksonville, Florida. Choruses awarded this prestigious honor submitted audition CDs including three selections from the previous three years, demonstrating a consistent top quality skill level. The Academy was selected to perform out of applicants from college, high school, middle school and community choruses from the 11 states represented by the Southern Division. The ACDA Southern Division consists of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. At the conference, which will be held March 6-8, 2014, the Academy chorus will be given the honor of performing at the Jacoby Symphony Hall in front of 1,200 of the most influential choral directors and conductors in the nation.

Saint James School Invited To Apple Inc. Headquarters

Saint James Head of School Melba Richardson and members of her staff attended executive briefing sessions at Apple headquarters in Cupertino, Calif., on June 21. Invited by Apple to make the return visit to the company’s headquarters, top education experts spoke with the STJ group about the most up-to-date and engaging ways to use technology to make classroom learning corroborative, active and challenging. Attending the briefing sessions with Head of School Melba Richardson were Saint James High School Principal Bryan Oliver, STJ board member Helena Duncan, IT Director Leigh Copeland, Middle School Principal J.B. Copeland, Elementary Principal Jim Terry, Dean of Admissions Cathy Pearson, Marketing and Public Relations Director Sandra Polizos and Academic Dean Susan Atkins. Saint James administrators previously visited Apple, Inc. in 2011, as part of the school’s in-depth plan for providing students with stateof-the-art technology tools. Saint James School first began using MacBooks, iPads and iPods in the classroom in 2011, and distributed the individual tools to students in 2012. 23

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ECA Adds New Electives

The high school students at Evangel Christian Academy are excited about new electives being offered this school year. In addition to Spanish, the high school students have the chance to take French. Susan Strahan is teaching this new class. In addition, an ACT prep class, taught by Brittany Hopper, has been added to the curriculum.

Holy Cross Introduces New STEM Lab

Holy Cross Episcopal students are in for a treat this year with the addition of the new STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) lab. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Affording the students another opportunity for hands-on learning in science and math will serve to support more long-term comprehension and memory,â&#x20AC;? said new Head of School Melissa Coumanis. Students in grades K-6 will have the opportunity to explore handson learning activities in the lab each week. The data they collect will then be applied to their learning of applications during their weekly computer lab time. The new STEM lab gives students the ability to explore a variety of science activities while integrating technology at the same time. STEM teacherCharlene Daugherty said she is enthusiastic about the opportunity she has to provide rich, fun, and exciting lessons for the students at Holy Cross. Shown, Holy Cross students observe mealworms in the STEM lab. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Cornerstone Experiences Record Enrollment

With the beginning of the new school year, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy has the largest student population in the history of the school. The school welcomed ten new kindergarten students on the first day of school. “We are excited about the new students that we have received into the school family over the past few months,” said Principal Priscilla Stewart. “It is a pleasure to meet like-minded parents who desire a Biblical worldview education for their children.” To accommodate the larger enrollment, the school has expanded its faculty to include new kindergarten teacher Brittany Bugeja, new third-grade teacher Amy Buxbaum and upper school teacher Kyle Boerstler. “We are grateful for God’s blessing in the life of our school,” said Cornerstone Board Chairman Tom Hicks. “The addition of these quality faculty members is an opportunity for our school to further the academic program but more importantly provide greater emphasis on the Christian nurture and discipleship of our students. It is a great privilege to offer this opportunity to our school families.” New kindergartner Avery Casey is shown with teacher Brittany Bugeja.

Macon East Teachers Receive a Blessing

Each year Woodland United Methodist Church invites the faculty and staff of Macon East Academy to participate in a Blessing of the Teachers. On August 8, the entire staff was able to take a break from the busyness of preparing for a new school year and be blessed by the ministers at Woodland UMC. The service included singing, a message by Pastor Tim Meadows, scripture reading, and ended with a prayer of blessing for the teachers, administrators and students of MEA. Following the service and prayer time, everyone enjoyed lunch in the fellowship hall.

Trinity Administrator Receives Patriotic Award

Trinity Presbyterian Lower School Principal Tami Shelley has received the “Patriotic Employer” award from the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Shelley was nominated for the prestigious award by Trinity fifth-grade teacher Mallory Tidwell, who is also a lieutenant in the United States Army Reserve. Richard Little, representing the Employer Support of Guard and Reserve, presented Shelley with the award on May 21. The award acknowledges those who “contribute to national security and protect liberty and freedom by supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force.” From left are Kerry Palmer, Richard Little, Tami Shelley and Mallory Tidwell.

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“Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it.”

EVANGEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

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Evangel Christian Academy is a ministry of Evangel Church in Montgomery, Alabama.

334-272-3882 ecalions.org Evangel Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, gender and national or ethnic origin.

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Montgomery County Schools

Holy Cross Announces Country For Upcoming Global Study

Lighthouse Celebrates End of Summer

McKinley Steele, a new third-grader at Lighthouse Christian Academy, enjoyed a fun day on the super Spider-Man bouncy. The school’s summer program had an end of summer celebration. For more information about LCA, call (334) 271-4200.

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Holy Cross Episcopal School holds a global study each year to give students an opportunity to learn about a culture that is different from their own. During this study, students learn everything from popular foods to famous, influential figures from that country. Each year the anticipation grows as students begin talking about the country they will be studying. Students at Holy Cross have studied countries such as Russia, Germany, and Japan in years past. This year the school will be studying the African country of Kenya. For students Shalom and Reuben Kamau, this will not be just any global study. Shalom and Reuben’s parents moved to the United States from Kenya 16 years ago. “Every global study we have done has been exciting, but knowing that some of our students have a personal connection with this country makes it even more special,” says teacher Monette Stuart. Shown, last year’s Holy Cross second-graders showed their endangered animal from Russia at the Global Study Museum.

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STJ Mock Judicial Team Represents Alabama

The Saint James School first-place State YMCA Youth Judicial team represented Alabama at the YMCA’s National Judicial Competition July 31-August 3 in Chicago. “Lawyers” Jared Hunter, Borden Cater and Caitlin Cobb, and “witnesses” Hayley White, Olivia Kent and Lexie Olszewski made up the winning team. Montgomery attorney Barbie McCormick was the team’s coach, with help from attorney Megan Arrington. STJ faculty sponsors Cindy Somerville and Kay McGaughey accompanied the team to the Chicago competition, along with Sam Adams from the Montgomery YMCA. Three teams from Birmingham’s Spain Park High School also represented Alabama in the national event. During the competition, each team participated in four trials, serving as the prosecution twice and as the defense team twice. With the STJ team’s demonstrated interest and significant mock trial experience, some members of the first-place team are members of the school’s new Pre-Law Studies course, offered for the first time in 2013-14. The new “pre-college major” elective allows students to survey the coursework they’ll encounter if charting a path to law school by visiting a variety of courts, and examining critical thinking skills, research and the process of expressing ideas orally and through legal writing. Saint James YMCA Youth Judicial Team members include, front from left, lawyers Borden Cater, Jared Hunter and Caitlin Cobb; and back, witnesses Olivia Kent, Hayley White and Lexie Olszewski.

Eastwood Hires New Fourth-Grade Teacher

Ginny Herndon and Gianna Foti, both fourth-graders at Eastwood Christian School, got into the swing of studying the first week of school. Both girls are in Shelley Blakeney’s class. Blakeney is new to Eastwood this year and brings 10 years of teaching experience to her classroom.

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Academy AP Calculus Class Scores Five on Nat’l Exam All 12 junior and senior students from The Montgomery Academy enrolled in the Advanced Placement Calculus class earned the maximum score of a five on the national exam given in May by the College Board. Nationwide, only 23.8% of students who took the test scored a five. AP Calculus teacher Cindy Ackerman’s approach to teaching the class involved reviewing for the end of the year AP test throughout the year, chapter by chapter. Through this constant, as-you-go review process, the students had an enormous amount of preparation and by achieving the highest score, saw the payoff for all their hard work. Ackerman also encouraged the students to work together in study groups which met once a week and before each test to review together outside of school. “Throughout the year, Mrs. Ackerman taught us to critically think and approach all questions the same way, regardless of the difficulty,” said Andrea Grey Jones, a 2013 graduate. “She prepared us with practice exams so we knew what to expect and nothing would come as a surprise. I think this is what prepared me the most for the test. Although the workload seemed overwhelming at times, it was worth it!” Administered through the College Board, AP brings the college experience to high school with the opportunity to earn college credits at thousands of universities.

Eastwood Students Conduct Velocity Project

Twelfth-grade students in Bob Maruna’s physics class at Eastwood Christian School measured height and initial velocity by timing how long it took for an apple to hit the ground after being shot from a homemade launcher. Shown working on their project are Jack Maruna and Luke Verble. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Macon East Softball Team Receives Championship Rings

The Macon East Lady Knights softball team members received their 2013 AISA State Championship rings at the school’s annual Night with the Knights. Coach Glynn Lott has led this team in back- to-back 3A state titles, and the girls will be working hard to make it three in the spring. Front row from left are: Mari Beth Baker, Deven Kennedy, Paxton Searle, Rachel Stough, Susie Johnson and Grace Allen; middle row: Carmeron Redding, Mary Kaylin Veach, Abbie Adams, Sommer Sears, Leslie Adams and Anna Marie Pugh; and back: Abby Smith, Jordan Amerson, Jesi Garrett and Bailey Singleton.

SUA Hires Adkinson as Administrative Assistant

Success Unlimited Academy has hired Denise Adkinson as receptionist and administrative assistant for the 2013-2014 school term. Having worked with the Montgomery Public School System at Baldwin Performing Arts Magnet School for several years, Adkinson brings a wealth of gifts and talents to SUA.

STJ Peer Leaders Prepare For Task

Saint James School’s senior peer leaders recently participated in a Leadership Program Retreat at the Auburn University Adventure Course. STJ’s peer leaders are senior mentors for the 2014 freshman class and are carefully selected for their excellent leadership qualities and high personal standards. Back from left are: Sponsor Dr. Larry McLemore, High School Dean of Student Programs, and senior peer leaders Hayley White, Evan Border, Borden Cater, Laura Catherine Clark, Zach Taylor and Jared Hunter; and front: Caitlin Cobb and Abigail Greenberg.

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STJ is On the Grow!

Roby Delivers Cards from Trinity to U.S. Troops

Recently, Trinity Presbyterian School alumnae Rep. Martha Roby traveled to Afghanistan to visit U.S. troops, where she delivered cards made by Trinity art students. The cards were made in Jennifer Bricken’s Middle School art class.

Catholic’s O’Mara Attends MIT Technology Program

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School senior Maddie O’Mara attended the Women’s Technology Program at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for a month this summer. She was one of only forty young women from across the country, and the only student from Alabama selected to attend WTP in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. WTP is a summer academic and residential program for female high school students to explore engineering and computer science through hands-on classes, labs, and team-based projects in the summer after 11th grade. O’Mara took three classes: Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Discrete Math, for the first three weeks, and the fourth week she participated in the WTP motor-building competition. The competition required her to design and build a motor, finishing with a speed competition, in which O’Mara placed second, and won a digital multimeter. To learn more about the program visit http://wtp.mit.edu/eecs/index.html. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Saint James School ceremonially broke ground on July 11 for an expansion to the school’s existing Field House, which is adjacent to Carlisle Field. Due to inclement weather, the “groundbreaking” was held in the existing Field House facilities. The enlargement adds approximately 4,620 gross square feet to the current Field House, benefitting every STJ athlete. The addition provides a new, larger wrestling room, a new entryway to the Field House, and new restroom/changing areas for boys and girls. The new construction also expands the football locker room and provides outside access to the training room--allowing all athletes - both male and female - comfortable, easy entry. “Saint James already has the finest academic facilities in the city,” says Head of School Melba Richardson. “The Field House expansion is a continuation of our efforts to have the best resources and facilities available for all our students, wherever their interests lie.” The expansion project is made possible by generous donations from STJ parents and grandparents and a significant anonymous gift from a Saint James School friend who says he likes what he sees happening at the school. Completion of the expansion is expected in late September or very early October. Donors, athletes, school leaders, board members, and Mayor Todd Strange (who has grandchildren at STJ) were on hand for the groundbreaking which, Richardson says, provides River Region residents with just one more indication Saint James School is committed to development of the whole child – from academics, to athletics, to the arts. On hand for the event were STJ parent Scott Taylor, former Board Chair Fred Clark, parent Art Frawley, parent Andrea Murray, Chairman of the Saint James School Board Billy Livings, STJ Board member Trip Walton, Mayor (and STJ grandparent) Todd Strange, Head of School Melba Richardson, parent Gene Bonner, parent Dr. Jeff Underwood, grandparents Pat and Garnet Turner, and Development Director Kim Hendrix. The parents, grandparents, and friends shown represent eight of the 21 donors who contributed to the project.

ACA Wins ‘Best Private School’ Third Year in a Row

Alabama Christian Academy has been named “Montgomery’s Best Private School” in the Montgomery Advertiser Readers’ Choice Awards for Montgomery County for the third year in a row. The school, which teaches students from pre-kindergarten through the twelfth grade, provides advanced academics, high-tech classrooms and a comprehensive athletics program within a Christian environment. With elementary, middle school and high school facilities at its campus on Wares Ferry Road, ACA celebrated its 70th year in 2012. “We’re grateful and humbled to receive this recognition,” said ACA President Ronnie Sewell. “At ACA, we see the pursuit of excellence as part of our Christian mission. We work to help our students thrive, and owe it to them to provide first-rate academics and extracurricular activities. And we owe it to the community, because our students will apply the skills and lessons they learn here out in the world.” Along with Advanced Placement and honors courses in English, biology and history, ACA maintains an active Model United Nations program and involvement in the Accelerated Reader Program and L.E.A.P. (Learning Enhancement and Achievement Program), offered to all students requiring learning assistance or more challenging studies. ACA also provides dual enrollment opportunities for high school juniors and seniors with Faulkner University. ACA’s elementary is ranked #1 in Alabama and #10 in the nation in money raised for the American Heart Association during the annual Jump Rope for Heart. 30

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Macon East Knights Prepare for Football

Covenant Kids Celebrate Summer

Twenty young athletes attended a football camp at Macon East Academy August 5-7 to prepare for the upcoming season. During the camp, the boys had the opportunity to work with the school’s varsity football coaches and players. Along with learning the fundamentals of football, the boys participated in agility training, passing exercises and numerous other non-contact drills. Macon East fields football teams and cheerleading squads for interscholastic play within the Alabama Independent School Association beginning in third grade.

Miller Introduces SUA’s First Career Building Program

The children at Covenant Kids had a blast this summer! They thoroughly enjoyed the new “Camp Room” which opened as a special treat for them. They loved the new centers with tons of fun summertime activities! Shown are three of the boys enjoying “Manatee Island” with their pirate ships. Covenant Kids is a ministry of Covenant Presbyterian Church and is located at 9 Arden Road just behind Capitol Heights Jr. High. For enrollment information, call 356-9110 and speak with Director Kathy Hegwood.

Mike Miller joins the faculty at Success Unlimited Academy this fall to develop and run the school’s first career building program, “Career Start.” This program will provide students with one-on-one job training and will serve as a partner in education alongside the current SUA curriculum. The program plans to match students’ interest and skill level with comparable community businesses. Students will have the opportunity to job shadow in the community and learn needed professional skills, such as resume writing and leadership training. Miller joins SUA after serving as an educator in Rome, Ga., for 31 years. He has also developed similar successful programs and is looking forward to implementing this program at Success Unlimited Academy.

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Catholic’s Profio Receives War Eagle BEST

Macon East Varsity Volleyball Team Attends Florida Camp

Seven members of the varsity volleyball team from Macon East Academy had the privilege of attending a camp at the University of Florida the weekend of July 19-21. The girls played volleyball from Friday afternoon until Sunday afternoon. They worked throughout the camp with Harvard volleyball player Mike Owen. “Everyone had a lot of fun,” said sophomore team member Jesi Garrett. “We learned new rotations and communication skills. It was an extremely intense camp, but it was worth it.” In addition to three tough days of training and competition, the team also enjoyed a couple days of fun at the beach. The varsity volleyball team has been crowned AISA 2A state champions the last two years, and they are looking forward to another great season and hopefully a third state ring.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School faculty member Dr. Joe Profio has received the War Eagle BEST, Auburn University’s Teacher Leadership Award, for inspiring the spirit of the Auburn Creed in his BEST students. The Auburn Creed states: “I believe in education, which gives me the knowledge to work wisely and trains my mind and my hands to work skillfully.” BEST stands for Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology. BEST originated in Texas in 1993 when two engineers from Texas instruments organized what they thought was a oneshot robotics event for local high schools. Since then it has grown to nearly 1,000 schools and 50 host sites. “I believe I was considered for the award because I participate in as many Math, Science and Engineering events as possible at Auburn,” said Profio. “In addition, I support or coordinate MCPS participation in math competitions (University of Alabama, Vestavia Hills, AMC state math competition), Science Olympiad, and the Math and Computing Olympiad at Alabama State University. These events, whether we win or lose, provide perspective to students on what types of questions mathematicians, scientists, and engineers consider.”

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Plan a field trip, birthday party or bring a group from church. Make Yeargan Farms your destination for Fall. For more information contact: Angie Yeargan 334-375-2424 or email angieyeargan@yeargan.com Located on Highway 14 east just past the Ocmulgee subdivision. for more information visit - www.yeargan.com Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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MA Middle School Chorus Chosen for State Conference

The 5th and 6th Grade Chorus at The Montgomery Academy has been selected to perform at the 2014 Alabama Music Educators Association In-Service Conference which will be held on January 23, at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Convention Center. The conference performance schedule includes community, collegiate and high school choruses from throughout the state. The chorus was selected through an audition process that consisted of written application, audio recordings, and letters of recommendation. An invitation to perform at this convention is one of the most prestigious invitations a choral director can receive in the state. As a middle school chorus, it is a rare and tremendous honor to be chosen to participate out of choruses from all different age groups. The 5th and 6th Grade Chorus, under the direction of Susan Cooper, is composed of 45 students.

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

CELEBRATING 13 YEARS OF SUCCESS!

Trinity Teacher Presents at Atlanta iSummit Conference

Success Unlimited Academy, LLC

Trinity Presbyterian School’s Technology Integration Specialist Karen McVay was asked to teach a class on iTunesU at the progressive iSummit conference in Atlanta on July 25. Her session was entitled “How to Create a Course in iTunesU: iTunes + You = Rockstar.” McVay explained concepts and methodologies of iTunesU to a capacity-filled room, where teachers from all over the United States attended the seminar. The iSummit conference, sponsored by the Coalition of Lighthouse Schools, connects administrators, teachers and IT professionals with education leaders whose focus is Apple’s mobile technologies and ubiquitous learning in educational environments for 21st century education. Several of Trinity’s faculty attended the conference, including Trinity’s newly appointed Middle/Upper School Principal Mike Zavada, and Director of Curriculum and Instruction Donna Siebenthaler. McVay posts and manages all of the classes at Trinity on iTunesU. “iTunesU helped the school overcome several hurdles, which included a place to store and archive videos,” said McVay. “The iTunesU program fit the criteria providing limitless storage, unlimited video length and best of all, it’s free.” With the help of McVay, Trinity is championing the “flipped classroom” concept throughout the school. iTunesU allows teachers to upload video lessons for students. Seventh-grade math teacher Kelly Long utilizes iTunesU to aid her in a “flipped” classroom. Students watch lessons at home on their MacBooks and take notes on the material. Then traditional homework assignments are completed in class where she is able to offer individualized assistance. Front row from left are Integration Specialist Karen McVay; Upper School Math Teacher Melissa Baker; first-grade teacher Jackie McNelley; Upper School calculus teacher Lynn LeFan; Math Department Chair Shelia Elmore and Upper School Science Teacher Sarah Tyus; back row: fourth-grade teacher Alice Hill; Director of Curriculum and Instruction Donna Siebenthaler; and Middle/Upper School Principal Mike Zavada.

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ACA Student Participates In First Camp MDme

Holy Cross Teachers Visit Camp McDowell

Holy Cross Episcopal School faculty and staff participated in an uplifting and informative retreat at beautiful Camp McDowell before school started. It was a time for new teachers to get to know the rest of the faculty, and for teachers to get to know new Head of School Melissa Coumanis. At the retreat, teachers shared ideas and future plans for Holy Cross. “I’ve always believed Holy Cross has a bright future, but it was good to get together and discuss what we want for the school in the coming years,” says teacher Amber Wright. “We had a lot of fun and left with an eagerness to get back to school and see our students!” Though the retreat included a large amount of professional development for teachers, it was not all work and no play. Teachers were able to absorb God’s beauty in the natural environment by going on nature walks, canoeing and participating in team-building exercises.

Alabama Christian Academy tenth-grader Caroline Rives was chosen as one of 12 participants in M.D. Connection’s first Camp MDme. This camp is specifically for students from across the River Region with high math and science grades who are interested in pursuing careers in the medical field. These students had to provide letters of recommendation from their teachers, a 3.8 or higher GPA, and write an essay on meaningful community outreach and service projects they have participated in.

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STJ Holds Conversational English Classes for 12+

A classroom full of Montgomery residents turned out for the first class in Saint James School’s Conversational English Class for teenagers and adults on July 8. The class, taught by the school’s English as a Second Language instructor Natalie King, was free of charge and specifically designed for adults and children (over age 12), for whom English is a second language. Registration was open to members of the STJ family, as well as the community at large.

Trinity Student Earns Perfect Score in WordMasters

A student representing Trinity Presbyterian School recently received a perfect score in the last of three meets for this year’s WordMasters Challenge—a national vocabulary competition involving nearly 150,000 students annually. Competing in the difficult Blue Division of the WordMasters Challenge, fifth-grader Graham Meldrum earned a perfect score of 20 in the recent meet. Nationally, only 144 fifth-graders achieved a perfect score. Other students at Trinity who achieved outstanding results in the final meet included Chandler Ford and Lauren Pace scoring 19. The students were coached in preparation for the WordMasters Challenge by fifth-grade teacher Kasi Parsons. The WordMasters Challenge is an exercise in critical thinking that first encourages students to become familiar with a set of interesting new words (considerably harder than grade level), and then challenges them to use those words to complete analogies expressing various kinds of logical relationships. Working to solve the analogies helps students learn to think both analytically and metaphorically.

Although most vocabulary enrichment and analogy-solving programs are designed for use by high school students, WordMasters Challenge materials have been specifically created for younger students in grades third through eighth. They are particularly well suited for children who are motivated by the challenge of learning new words and enjoy the logical puzzles posed by analogies. Trinity students Graham Meldrum and Lauren Pace are shown. 35

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Montgomery Academy Welcomes Students Back with Convocation

Eastwood Welcomes New Kindergarten Teacher

New Eastwood Christian School kindergartner Lily Givens is thrilled to have her mom, Ruth Givens, as her teacher this year. After Mrs. Givens left the Eastwood classroom several years ago to rear her children, she remained involved as the coordinator of the spring musical. Givens is shown with some of her students: Jacob Worley, Caroline MacLeod, Rebekah Lucas, Lily Givens, Leah Johnson and Ella Field.

The 2013-2014 school year at The Montgomery Academy began on the Vaughn Road campus, where the entire student body opened the year with Convocation in the courtyard. Kindergartners, after meeting their senior buddies at an ice cream party the evening before, processed handin-hand with the seniors before being seated with their parents. Brock Hendon, senior class president, opened the program with the invocation and was followed by Will Peeples â&#x20AC;&#x2122;18, who led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. After a welcome from Head of School Dave Farace, senior Williams Haynes, SGA president, gave an uplifting speech about The MA Journey. He motivated students and faculty with a review of his last 12 years at the Academy and the impact everyone at the Academy has had on his life. Jan Pringle, John McWilliams and Ed Billingslea welcomed new students and faculty in each of their divisions. Kindergartner Lulu Espy concluded the assembly with a heartwarming congratulations to the Class of 2014 from the Class of 2026.

The Phantom of the Opera World Premiere

Choreography by Darren McIntyre

October 10-13, 2013 at the Davis Theatre MONTGOMERY

For tickets: etix.com or (334)409-0522 www.montgomeryballet.org

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Saint James Named ‘Heart-safe’ School

Saint James School is one of only 15 educational institutions in Alabama named as a “Heart-Safe School” by Alabama LifeStart, a Birmingham organization working to ensure Alabama schools are well-equipped with and trained to use automated external defibrillators (AEDS). The recipient schools were honored for incorporating AED training into their student health or physical education curriculum. “We are so proud to receive this honor that tells our parents just how seriously we take their child’s well-being,” says Saint James Head of School Melba Richardson. “We have seven defibrillators at the school now, and several student classes, faculty, and staff members have received training on these devices.” With the help of Alabama LifeStart, Children’s of Alabama and Lord Wedgwood Charity, every public middle, junior and senior high school in the state was equipped with at least one AED in 2011. Unfortunately, according to LifeStart, not all faculty, staff and students in Alabama schools know how to use the devices quickly in an emergency. At Saint James, an independent private school, special AED training is available for both students and faculty. “I teach Saint James students CPR/AED in a special pre-college elective called Survey of Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy and Related Professions,” says Christi Hurd, an athletic trainer at Montgomery’s Rehab Associates who also contracts with STJ to teach the unique class. “In STJ’s Middle School, the PE instructors teach CPR/AED to all students in the physical education program. In addition, I teach and certify all coaches at the school through the American Red Cross and Rehab Associates, and once a year I do a class for the faculty.” The training improves the school’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to a cardiac arrest. According to LifeStart, an AED can increase the survival rate to 50 percent. From left, STJ students Parker Eley and Arthur Frawley work with trainer Christi Hurd, learning how to use one of the school’s automated external defibrillators.

Macon East Academy Welcomes New Faculty

Macon East Academy welcomes five new faculty members for the 2013-2014 school year. Tiffany Ala is the art instructor for both lower and upper school. Olivia Maddox joins the athletics team as coach for varsity and JV girls’ basketball, assistant soccer coach, health teacher, and physical education instructor for lower and upper school girls. The upper school math department welcomes both Brynn Nix and Raymond Tyc. Nix teaches pre-algebra, algebra I & III, and geometry. Tyc teaches algebra II with trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus and computer. Kelly Turner is the newest addition to the upper school English department, and she is teaching honors English, creative writing and computer.

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MA’s Lillian Roth Represents Alabama at Girls Nation

Montgomery Academy senior Lillian Roth was recently selected as one of only two high school students to represent the state of Alabama at American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation. Girls Nation is a program that brings 98 girls from across the country to Washington, D.C. where they become “senators” who meet for weeklong learning. After running for office, electing a mock U.S. Girls Nation President, and campaigning for the passage of mock legislation, the participants met with national government leaders, including State senators and President Obama, who spoke to participants and took photos with each participant. During the week, the girls visited Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and took a tour of many memorials and monuments in our Nation’s capital. They spent time at Capitol Hill, receiving passes to the United States House of Representatives and Senate for a behind the scenes tour and were visited by a Holocaust survivor – a unique and truly unforgettable experience for the participants. During the program, Roth roomed at the 4-H Center with participants from California, New Jersey and Connecticut, which gave her the opportunity to learn from other teenagers from various parts of the country. “Girls Nation was an amazing opportunity to meet new people and make friends from all across the country, all with diverse lifestyles and unique viewpoints,” Roth said. “It was incredible to have a chance to hear first-hand about current events going on in other states from the perspective of people who live in the state. I was fairly certain I wanted to pursue a career in politics in the future and this once- in-a-lifetime experience, being surrounded by the political scene and meeting many exceptional people, just affirmed what I want to do.”

Trinity’s Dance Teams Compete At Mississippi College

Trinity Presbyterian’s Varsity and JV dance teams attended the Universal Dance Association (UDA) Dance Camp at Mississippi College on June 10-13. The teams spent four days in technique classes, hiphop, jazz, skills classes, and learned dance material. Both teams placed first in their divisions for Home Pom. All-star dancer auditions were held and the following were chosen: Varsity-Madison Elrod, Savannah Elrod, Emory Johnston, Virginia Reid and Emily Windham; and JV- Gracie Champion, Penelope Faulk, Abby Johnston, Meredith Kingry, Amanda Meadows and Charlie Ward. On the last day, teams performed their camp material and final awards were given out. The Varsity won 1st place in Home Pom, Superior Trophy, Top Drill Down Winner, and a bid to Nationals in Orlando, Florida. Three seniors—Madison Elrod, Emory Johnston and Emily Windham—were asked to try out for UDA staff. Anna Slawson received 3rd place in Drill Down out of the entire camp, and Coach Jenny Letner received the Coach Award. Junior Varsity dance team received 1st place in their Home Pom, Superior Trophy from their performances at camp, and a bid to Nationals in Orlando, Florida. Trinity dance team alumna Jordy Cheney is the coach for the newly formed JV dance team. Her expertise and commitment have made the inaugural year of the JV dance team an easy one for Coach Letner and Athletic Director Harold Hilliard. Coach Cheney has definitely led the team to a great start! JV Dance Team, above, includes, front row from left: Abby Jobnston, Anne Catherine Logan, Gracie Champion, Coach Jordy Cheney, Hannah McDaniel, Madison Bowen, Mary Ann Pittman and Amanda Meadows; and back: Katherine Moore, Meredith Kingry, Penelope Faulk, Sarah Howe and Charlie Ward. Varsity Dance Team, below, includes, front row from left: Emily Windham, Emory Johnston, Kacey Tinney, Madison Elrod, Coach Jenny Letner, Savannah Elrod, Virginia Reid, Caroline Lee and Caroline Colee; and back: Katie Windham, Emma Heaton, Anna Slawson, Jordyn Meeks, Madison Cornett and Mary Glenn Draper. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Eastwood Welcomes New First-Grade Teacher

Molly Howard and Mary Louise Cowdern, who are in second grade at Eastwood Christian School this year, enjoyed studying together during the first week of school. Howard’s mother, Milla Howard, is a new first-grade teacher at Eastwood. She brings many years of experience to the classroom as well as a love for her students. 38

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ACA Leaders Help Clean Garrett Campus

Lighthouse Preschoolers Explore Fire Truck

Lighthouse Christian Academy preschoolers had a blast playing with Big Red, the fire truck. To know more about our program, call (334) 271-4200.

Covenant Kids Enjoy Outer Space Study

The four-year-old class at Covenant Kids Child Development Center ended the summer in outer space! Guided by teacher Ms. Jeanette, they learned about the solar system and what real astronauts have to wear to be out in outer space. They learned facts about the planets of our solar system. Finally, they made space helmets and then they all pretended to float among the planets. Covenant Kids is currently enrolling fouryear-olds for the school year. For more information, call the center at 356-9110.

A team from the Alabama Christian Academy Class of 2013 Leadership Montgomery spent the morning of August 10 at Garrett Elementary School cleaning and sprucing up the school’s campus. ACA President Ronnie Sewell was a member of that team. “The idea of serving others is a huge part of the Leadership Montgomery mission,” he said. “We have some fifty class members from the Montgomery area in our class. All members are in some type of leadership role in their businesses. It is a great opportunity for all of us to network with one another, to become much more engaged in our community, and in general to become better servant leaders.”

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Churchill Welcomes New Faculty Members

Churchill Academy welcomes five new teachers this year. Four of the five are Cindy Robinson, Tracy Smith, Molly Maclean and Yahnira Backus. Ranging from veterans to teachers new to the classroom, this group is all excited to join the Churchill faculty. Robinson has always worked with children on the autism spectrum and said she finds special needs classrooms exciting because each student focuses on his or her own unique activities. Smith said she loves the ways that classrooms like those found at Churchill are derived from the students’ needs, rather than for the convenience of the teachers. Maclean said she looks forward to being a positive influence on her students, and is excited to see the way Churchill brings ideals and realities together in a practical way in the classroom. Backus has been teaching for twenty years. Her son Gary graduated from Churchill last year, and her son Richard is still a student here. She said she loves the way Churchill students consistently support one another. From left are Tracy Smith, Yahnira Backus, Molly Maclean and Cindy Robinson. Next month, we’ll introduce you to Tammy Crane.

ACA Graduate Plays Football for A&M

2013 Alabama Christian Academy graduate and football player Austin Simmons played in this summer’s AHSAA North/ South Allstar Game. Simmons, who wore #62 at ACA, will be playing football on a full scholarship at Alabama A&M University this fall. He played offensive line at ACA and is shown here with ACA Coach Michael Summers.

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Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Macon East Names Duke TIP Honorees

Macon East Academy recognizes the following seventh-grade students who have been selected to participate in the Duke University Talent Identification Program: Nate Center, Bailey Estes, Isabella Fagan, Cole Faucheux, Blaze Hall, Jackson Little, Brian Major and Anna Grace Tompkins. This year marks the 34th annual seventh-grade talent search conducted by Duke University. Students selected for this program have strong intellectual abilities and are eligible to participate based on a qualifying score at or above the 95th percentile on standardized achievement testing. As a Duke TIP nominee, students have the opportunity to take either the SAT or ACT test, designed for college-bound high school students, during their seventh-grade year. This experience allows the students to gain greater insight into their academic abilities. Selection into the talent search also gives these students access to a wide range of educational experiences and resources offered through the Duke program. Front row from left are: Blaze Hall, Isabella Fagan, Anna Grace Tompkins and Bailey Estes; back row: Cole Faucheux, Nate Center, Brian Major and Jackson Little.

Eastwood Hires New Upper School Teacher

New Eastwood Christian Upper School teacher Cindy Peavy enjoyed time with her son, Micah, before school began on August 14. Peavy is a long-time Eastwood volunteer parent who now teaches ninthgrade physical science. 41

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Two Catholic Students Chosen for Scholarships

Col. Jack Lauer, Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council # 893, announced two deserving Montgomery Catholic students as recipients of the Ben and Alice Tokarz Memorial Scholarship in May. Each year the Knights of Columbus gives two tuition scholarships to help students continue their education at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. One scholarship is given to a St. Bede campus sixth-grade student who graduates to the MCPS Middle School. The other scholarship is for an MCPS Middle School campus eighth-grade student who will be attending the High School. Students are chosen based on academic achievement, service to the school, their family, and the community. Applicants also share their personal views of Catholic education, and how it has it has helped strengthen their faith. The winner of the St. Bede campus scholarship was Melody Taylor. It was presented by Col. Lauer at the MCPS St. Bede campus sixth-grade completion Mass on May 24. Taylor is the daughter of Lynda and Andy Taylor of Montgomery. The winner of the Middle School campus scholarship was Madison Gaston. It was presented by Col. Lauer at the MCPS eighth-grade completion Mass on May 23 at Holy Spirit Church. She is the daughter of Shannon and Collin Gaston of Pike Road. Shown, Madison Gaston receives her scholarship from Col. Lauer.

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On August 19th, our students embarked on a new school year. I am looking forward to an excellent year both inside and outside the classroom. Our teachers spent countless hours participating in professional development so they can provide our students with the best education possible. This month I want to recognize the work of the Children’s Policy Council (CPC) and the services it has provided to Autauga County Schools. The CPC brings together individuals from 15 different categories and agencies. Juvenile Judge Joy Booth serves as the chairperson for the council and has done an excellent job leading the CPC. By purposely bring-

ing together agency, organization, and community mentors, children’s services are more likely to be delivered as a collaborative effort rather than taking place in isolation, often resulting in duplication of efforts or missed opportunities to provide services. The CPC works tirelessly to support public education in Autauga County. The following are just a few of the activities the CPC sponsored during the 2012-2013 school year: • Arranged for distracted driver presentations to be conducted in the secondary schools. • Brought in a nationally renowned presenter to speak at two venues, Celebrate Calm Event addressing parenting, open free to the public. • The CPC Health Committee partnered with Billingsley to create a Community Garden on campus to help educate children about where food comes

from and to provide education on healthy eating. In addition, a grant was applied for and awarded in the terms of equipment needed to complete this project. • The CPC Education Committee applied for and received a grant from the Autauga Area Community Foundation to enroll 500 children in the Reach Out and Read Program. • Several bullying presentations were conducted throughout Autauga County schools through the PASS Organization. I encourage you to support the CPC whenever and however possible. It is a great organization with the sole purpose of helping children! Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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Prattville Freshman Academy Sponsors Boot Camp

The Prattville High School Freshman Academy sponsored a Freshman Boot Camp in late July to help students become familiar with the facilities and the procedures of high schools. Students spent the day doing activities related to academic expectations, teambuilding, and learning to deal with others. More than 300 students attended the summer session. In addition, students were provided lunch from Buffalo Rock and Subway of Prattville. It was a great day for students to meet fellow classmates, interact with members of the Student Government Association and the PHS Student Ambassadors.

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PCA Cheerleaders Win UCA Cheer Camp Awards

The Prattville Christian Academy cheerleaders attended UCA cheer camp at Auburn University this summer and came back with multiple awards for the JV and varsity squads. The JV cheerleaders, as a team, won first in the Home Pom category, second in Extreme Routine, third for Overall Cheer, second in Sideline, third in Gametime, and won the “Banana” on the second night. In the individual competition, Peri Greene was the JV Jump Off Winner, and was also selected for the “Why America Needs Cheerleaders: Pin It Forward.” Courtney Cunningham and Peri Greene were each voted UCA All Americans. The PCA varsity squad as a team won first in Home Pom, first in Extreme Routine, second in Overall Cheer, third in Sideline, second in Gametime, won the Banana award on the second night, and claimed the Leadership Award for the second year in a row. Individually, PCA senior Kady Oglesby was the Varsity Jump Off Winner, and junior Mary Katherine Johnson was selected for the “Why America Needs Cheerleaders Pin It Forward.” Mary Katherine Johnson, Ally Davis, Sidney Wohlers and Kady Oglesby were each voted UCA All Americans. 45

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PCA Senior Named 2014 Distinguished Young Woman

The Annual Distinguished Young Woman of Autauga County Program was held July 20 at the Prattville High School gym/auditorium. The title of 2014 Distinguished Young Woman of Autauga County was awarded to Hannah Cherry. She received $1,000 in cash scholarships as the overall winner, in addition to the $750 cash scholarships that she won in scholastics, talent, fitness, self-expression and interview categories. For the talent portion of the competition, Cherry played a piano solo, “Polichinelle Op.3, No.4” by Rachmaninoff. Cherry has studied piano for many years under the instruction of Donna Wilson of Prattville. Distinguished Young Woman, formerly known as Junior Miss, is a scholarship program available to senior high school girls. Participants in the Distinguished Young Woman program are evaluated on fitness, self-expression, talent, scholastics, and a ten-minute judges’ interview. The scholastics and interview portion are completed prior to the program. Cherry is currently a senior at Prattville Christian Academy, where she is actively involved in Speech & Debate, Science Olympiad, and the Drama Troupe, winning competitions in all endeavors. She is the daughter of Randy and Amy Cherry. She plans to attend the University of Mobile in the fall of 2014. Cherry will represent Autauga County and PCA in the State Program held in Montgomery at Frazer Memorial, January 17-18, 2014. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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We are back “full speed ahead” here in the Elmore County School District. This year, all four of our high schools are involved in the A+ College Ready Program. Thanks to this initiative, we continue to see steady gains in the qualifying scores on Advanced Placement exams that translate to major savings on college tuition. Across our district, many veteran administrators have assumed new roles. In the Wetumpka area, Ms. Jina Sanders is in her first full school year as principal at Wetumpka Elementary. Long time Holtville Elementary Principal Tremeca Jackson is the new principal at Wetumpka Middle following the retirement of WMS Principal Bessie Robinson. In the Holtville community, Lee Jackson has assumed the principalship at Holtville

Middle after several years as Assistant Principal at Coosada Elementary. Millbrook Middle School also has a new chief. MMS Assistant Principal Ayena Jackson has assumed the duties of former principal Steve McKenzie. Mr. McKenzie moved to the central office where he will serve as Director of Secondary Education. New faces also abound in the assistant principal roles at our schools as well. These individuals include Calandra Crenshaw at Coosada Elementary, Nicholas Townsend at Millbrook Middle, Loukisha Brooks at Stanhope Elmore High, and Bonnie Sullivan at Wetumpka Elementary. You will be hearing a lot about the establishment of Professional Learning Communities or PLCs on all of our campuses this year. By definition, a Professional Learning Community is an effective staff development team approach on a school campus that focuses on learning rather than on teaching, working collaboratively, and being accountable for results. Three key partners in PLCs are students, staff, and stakeholders (parents/community). By using this research-based practice, our district

is anticipating robust results during the coming year because of PLCs. Furthermore, when it comes to student achievement, our district has acquired a new software solution called True North for all of our campuses. It is our belief that this new program coupled with our skilled teachers, staff, and administrators will help our students experience significant gains in achievement. With our mission to ensure that all of our students are equipped for college and career readiness, our district will be hosting a Workforce Development Summit this month that will bring together business, community, and school leaders from throughout the community. As I am now in the midst of my ninth year as superintendent, I can unabashedly say that this incredibly difficult job continues to be exciting and satisfying as I have the privilege of working with outstanding board members and the dedicated members of the Elmore County School System family. Dr. Jeff Langham is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. Now in his eighth year as the system’s leader, he has a total of 27 years of experience in the field of education. Langham is an active member at Landmark Church in Montgomery. He and his wife, Ginny, a nurse educator, have one daughter, Weldon.

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ARIS Teambuilds At the Bowling Alley

Airport Road Intermediate School began the school year by forming Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Every staff person and faculty member belongs to a PLC whose goal is to improve the learning environment at ARIS. The groups had already met twice on campus for training and brainstorming meetings. To further build better relationships among these Elmore County employees, they went bowling together. They rode on buses and spent a morning bowling. For lunch, they shared a meal of pizza and a drink. All agreed that it was fun to be around positive and energetic people who appreciated each other.

Millbrook Schools Hold ‘Back to School Rally’

The Elmore County schools in Millbrook staged a “Back to School Rally” at Village Green Park on August 9. Coosada Elementary, Airport Road Intermediate, Millbrook Middle, and Stanhope Elmore High School participated by showcasing student talent at the bandstand. The ARIS choir and dance team performed. Central Office administrators all attended, too. ARIS Principal Marcia Stephens and Assistant Principal Sharon Earl are shown. The park was filled with parents and children enjoying the show and free snacks provided by the schools. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Wetumpka Bands See Professional Shows

Members of the Wetumpka High School and Middle School bands traveled to Murfreesboro, Tenn., on July 26 to see “The Masters of Summer Music Games” drum corp international show. The show featured seven of the top Drum Corp groups in the country including The Blue Devils, The Cavaliers and Santa Clara Vanguard, among others. Directors Jason Warnix and Diana Frazier said that this was a wonderful opportunity for the students to see true musicianship at its finest.

ARIS Starts Strong on First Day of School

As is her custom, Airport Road Intermediate Principal Marcia Stephens greeted students as they entered the building on the first day of school. The character trait of the week announced over the intercom was citizenship. Students learned citizenship through their teachers who instructed them about how to be a model citizen of ARIS. Students also saw signs posted on hallways and classrooms about behavior expectations. As teachers guided students through the school, visiting the lunchroom, library, counselor, nurse, and office, they also stopped to greet the support staff of paraprofessionals, special education teachers, and custodial staff. In a week’s time, students were practicing good citizenship.

ARIS Holds Open House

Open House at Airport Road Intermediate School in August meant multi-generation families visiting to bring their new third- or fourth-graders to the school for the next year. It was also a time for teachers to marvel at older brothers and sisters who came back just to see their ARIS teachers. Some returning students are now taller than their teachers. Others who are in middle school or high school enjoyed the attention of being recognized by their former teacher and other faculty.

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Dance Toys Take Center Stage

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

From the time they are babies, their innate response to music is just the first step toward kids getting their moves together to join the dance. Wiggling and bouncing are just the beginning of children’s progress toward the dancing spotlight. Encouraging their interest in dance and dance-related activity is an ideal way to foster physical coordination, memory skill and a purely physical expression of joy. Get your kids up and off the couch with these great toys and games that help kids become Lords (and Ladies) of the dance!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Baby Born Dance With Me

Twister Dance DVD (Milton Bradley)

Combining the best of traditional Twister with lively dance lessons, Twister Dance puts in motion a choreography journey with forty dance tutorials for beginning dancers. Once the dance mat, with clearly designated step zones for a single player, is placed in front of your TV, the accompanying DVD is ready to start the dance floor action. Beginning with the Learn mode, an animated choreographer, using the mats, introduces players to the basic steps before moving to Dance mode where the moves are connected with increasing tempo. Once the moves are mastered, Party mode provides music and lights so players can test their dance skills and movement memory. The dancing gauntlet can also be thrown down to include more players using all four dance mats included in the energetic Twister Dance!

(ZAPF Creation)

Start your baby off on the right foot (and the left) with the doll who’s born to dance! Making her move on center stage, Baby Born Dance with Me moves from side-to-side and then up and down in time to her own music (or yours!). Her smooth moves are just right for the toddler set with no sudden moves to startle little audiences. She comes with her own special dance music and dances with the rhythm until the song ends. This 14” tiny dancer can also be connected with an audio cable to your own MP3 player for an expanded repertoire of performance. With a washable surface and removable clothing, she’s battery operated and ready to charm even the most reluctant partners into joining the dance!

Zippity High-Energy Learning System

Angelina Ballerina Dance With Me Game

(LeapFrog)

(Wonder Forge)

Combining early learning with energetic dance moves, Zippity lets kids who may be too young for the Wii develop their memory and coordination through one active outlet. The interactive video game system plugs directly into a TV, with kids using a colorful dance mat and over-sized joystick to control the action! Eight games featuring favorite Mickey Mouse Clubhouse characters get children stepping, dancing, jumping and moving their arms while they hone their ability to follow directions as they master each level. The games assist the players to memorize certain moves in a short sequence, while color, letter, and number recognition are reinforced as the player uses big body moves to meet the Zippity challenges. Ideal for the pre-school set, this addition to the LeapFrog line-up encourages the younger set to get up and moving.

From playing on the board to treading the boards, the Angelina Ballerina Dance with Me game will move little dance fans from bedroom floor to the ballet spotlight in just minutes! As each player’s Angelina figure progresses around the game board, they collect step-by-step game cards that introduce the most basic ballet positions and moves. Players get “practice” moments along the way to get up and put their real dance moves to the test as they prepare for their moment in the spotlight! No matter who wins, every player gets to be a dancing star! (Having dress-up tutus on hand, definitely amps up the fun factor!) For kids who have trouble sitting still through a regular board game, the Angelina Ballerina Dance with Me game will put that extra energy and enthusiasm into play with prima ballerina results!

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

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THINK FAST AT THE FIRST SIGN OF A

STROKE Get To The Area’s Only Nationally Certified Stroke Center

Every second is critical after stroke symptoms first appear. Receiving the right treatment quickly could save your life and minimize brain damage. That’s why you should immediately get to Baptist Medical Center South. As the area’s only Nationally Certified Stroke Center, Baptist South has a specialized Stroke Team on site 24/7, with the expertise to provide the fastest, most effective treatment. So in case of symptoms such as facial drooping, weakness in one arm, slurred speech, blurry vision, or sudden severe headache, think fast…call 911 and get to Baptist MedicalCenter South.

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Beating the Mommy Blues by Pam Molnar

mother often gets lost in the shuffle. Her job as support staff to her husband and children is essential, but lacking in personal growth. Women often let their family’s activities and accomplishments become their own. It is dark standing in someone’s shadow. Allow yourself to step back out into the spotlight. Mothers can continue to grow and evolve as individuals. By feeding your own fire, you are able to be a better mother and wife.

Take a class. Education is an important step in your evolution process. Your primary role as a mother is to teach your children, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn new things yourself. Find something that interests you and learn more about it. Look at community colleges in your area. Most colleges offer continuing education classes in a variety of subjects to sharpen your skills or teach you something new. Visit the park district in your area for gardening, dance or cooking classes. Take advantage of free demonstration classes on weekends at local hardware and craft stores. Attend a lecture, join an acting workshop or enroll in a wine tasting course.

Five Ways to Recharge Your Spirit

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Volunteer. Look beyond helping out in your son’s preschool class. There are so many great causes that need your help. Consider working at your local PADS, animal shelter or senior center. Giving back to your community recharges your soul. Cathy Fulgham, youth mentor and mother of two, explains her reasons for choosing to volunteer with teenagers. “Each and every one of our kids is so unique, so individual and quirky and fun and angst-ridden, it’s impossible not to learn from them. Being with them helps me to keep an open mind, to learn 52

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new trends, games, culture, etc. They also renew my hope in our future.”

Go back to work.

Moms need to reconnect with adults on a regular basis. We are intelligent people and need to challenge ourselves. Now is the perfect time to start the business you have been talking about. Research your options and talk to business mentors at your local SCORE office. If a business venture is too much to take on right now, consider a part time job that takes you out of the house. Flexible hour jobs may include retail, tutoring, or jobs within the school district like library aides and office staff. Just a few hours a week in another environment will make a world of difference.

Have a regular Girl’s Night Out. Spending time socializing with other women will do wonders for your mental health. Amy Chavous, mother of an active five-year-old, stresses the need for a girl’s night out. “It is important for a mom to have a girl’s night out because sometimes when you become a mother you can lose yourself. Being able to connect with other women through stories is a way to reassure yourself that not only

are you doing the best you can as a mom, but you still have an identity outside of all your daily obligations.” Chavous suggests trying popular wine and canvas nights, chocolate tastings or hosting a book talk at your house.

Follow your dream. Is there something on your list that you have always wanted to try? You may want to run a marathon, try scuba diving or take a ride in a hot air balloon. Dig deep into your soul and think selfishly for a moment. As mothers, we tend to push off our unachieved dreams onto our children, hoping to live vicariously through them. If you have always wanted to play the piano, don’t get piano lessons for your daughter, get them for yourself. Search the dark corners of your

mind and find something to do just for you. Prove to yourself that you are never too old to try something new. As the saying goes, “If mom isn’t happy, no one is happy.” In other words, you can easily bring others down if you are not satisfied. Make yourself a priority. If you keep hitting the “Dismiss” button when your battery is low, you will eventually run out of juice. It is vital to keep recharging your spirit so you can be at 100% when your family needs you. mp Pam Molnar is a freelance journalist and mother of three. She is inspired by mothers who continue to grow alongside their children.

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Easy Transitions for Your Fall Fashion Here in the beautiful Southern states, we go from nice spring weather to hot weather in an instant. Then, when fall sneaks in, we can go from cool mornings to warm afternoons and back to cool nights. It’s like a fashion roller coaster! This can lead to major confusion when it comes to your seasonal style. Today, Centsibly Southern Chic brings you tips to transition your closet with the shifting Southern climate. *Tip 1- Do some shopping! This is the perfect time to buy spring and summer items at half the cost. You can incorporate several of your favorite styles into fall and winter outfits simply by layering them with accessories. To stay on trend for the season with those summer styles, figure out what your seasonal color is (typically colors for fall and winter are jeweled tones) and have fun color blocking or incorporating a few of your spring and summer colors and styles into your wardrobe. Be aware of fabric! No summer fabric such as linen, or bright whites mixed in with spring brights, as this makes a major difference when it comes to seasonal style transition. Fashion NEWS FLASH! Pull out your spring pastels. Yes, they are being incorporated in with our fall colors. Your staple color for the fall is navy, and almost everyone has navy hanging in her wardrobe. Be sure to bring out that color blocking with those pastels. I love mixing jeweled colors with pastels. *Tip 2- Pull out your cardigans, light jackets, button-up tops and light weight scarves. You can layer all of these items, as needed. If it is 45 degrees when you Montgomery Parents I September 2013

leave the house that morning, wear your short-sleeved blouse with a scarf, cardigan, light jacket, blazer or even a denim jacket (make sure your sleeves are rolled up for proportional length) and your favorite fall accessory (mine would be a chunky, long, light material scarf). Then, if it is 70 degrees when you leave work or the sun comes up during your favorite fall activity, take that extra layer off and wear your light scarf with a great bracelet, necklace and/or earrings. This just gives you combined fun and functionality in a new transitional outfit. *Tip 3- Simple t-shirts. Remember all of those t-shirts or tanks you stocked up on during the spring and summer? NOW is the perfect time to put them to good use! For example, take your favorite winter/fall skirt, tuck in your t-shirt, belt it, and then layer it with your favorite accessories, cardigan, scarf, blazer, etc. Voila! You now have a great transitional night on the town or work outfit. You can do the same thing with jeans! There are endless possibilities! *Tip 4-Wear the right shoes. When the official first day of fall hits you can bust out those fun heels or boots that you have been waiting to wear. Southerners really need to get ready for game day and many more events coming up this fall. So, let’s also make our shoes stylish and comfortable. Flats are great to wear when you are walking to and from tailgates, but if you are like me, sometimes flats are not that flattering on your body. I shoot for a 54

pointed toe flat or a camel/lighter color knee high boot. It’s still flat and very comfortable for that game day experience. If you are all about comfort, consider getting a good looking natural/gold or patterned closed toe flat. Find a shoe or heel that’s versatile with your everyday styles. Remember, prints can be a fun way to add to your simple seasonal change. *Tip 5- Dabble in your winter clothes from last year. Add your favorite spring colors and styles to a favorite winter piece and you have a new outfit. Just because clothing is deemed “winter wear” doesn’t mean we can’t dabble in it and try to combine some of it with our summer wear. We believe in saving money, looking good and maxing out the use of each season’s clothing. *Tip 6- Dresses/skirts are a perfect staple piece for all seasons. Once again, as stated above, pull from the colors that are in the dress/skirt and that will help you change your look from summer to fall/winter. Add boots, tights, leggings, jackets, cardigans, scarves and, of course, your favorite accessories. Dresses or skirts are great for versatility! If you have any questions call me or e-mail me. I would love to walk you through the transition between seasons. You should feel confident about your clothing and Centsibly Southern Chic wants to equip you with the tools to be just that. For examples of easy transitional styles visit my blog at http:// centsiblysouthern.com/easy-and-affordable-styletransionts-forthe-fallwinter81413/.

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

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School Year Tips for

Parenting a Child with ASD by Bama Hager, Ph.D.

Transitioning to school or back to school can be very challenging for families living on the Autism Spectrum. New routines, new teachers, new students, new rooms and new demands can be very daunting. Transitioning back to school is a challenging time for any family and the characteristics of ASD can often exacerbate transition challenges. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Consistency and Predictability. Although transitioning to the school year can be challenging, consistency and predictability hopefully will be established with each passing day. When the environment is consistent and predictable, children can explore, create, develop and learn. Consistent consequences and predictable routines are often established after a few days of the school schedule. Many children on the spectrum benefit from a written or picture schedule even if they have language skills. At times, a physical support like a written schedule can be comforting to a child and often fosters predictability in routine.

Decreasing Anxiety. Related to a predictable and consistent routine, any supports that decrease anxiety during your child’s day might be helpful in adjustment to school. A plan for times of high anxiety is often useful. Some students have a safe space in a room or building where they are allowed to go when overwhelmed. Some students use a token or pass to go to an agreed upon area for rest and calm. Once the child takes the time out, he/she might use a checklist to camp himself/ herself. The checklist might include deep breaths, trampoline time, stretches, etc. Discussion and planning at the beginning of a school year can often assist while routines are established.

Executive Skills Support. Planning and organization are often challenging

for students on the spectrum. Executive functioning supports might be helpful to a student on the spectrum. Parents might want to work with their child to create a checklist for each day including unpacking backpacks, locker stops, turning in homework, packing books for homework, etc. Asking the child’s caseworker or teacher to take a few minutes at the beginning and end of the day to help the child organize might be very helpful. Supports for planning, organization, class transitions, impulse control and maintaining attention are often parts of any typical classroom. Parents might visit the child’s classroom and discuss supports in the room that may help his/her child. The child’s desk placement and classroom materials can help the child through the schedule. In addition, many classrooms have timers or study aids that would be helpful for the child with ASD to stay on task and stay organized.

High Functioning Autism and Transition to School. Specific to students with high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, the child’s verbal skills can be used to ease the transition. Many children, teens and adults with high functioning ASD can learn to self-advocate for their needs during school transitions. Parents might present children with words or a word bank after school each day. The word bank may contain descriptive words or feeling words including, fun, exciting, frustrating, long, short, hard, easy, mad, angry, sad, worried,

nervous, etc. The parent might also use the child’s written school schedule to review each period of the day or subject. The student is asked to use a descriptive word from the list to describe each period of the day. So the child might use the word “worried” or “fun” to describe Science class. In this way, over time, the child might become more skilled in using words independently to describe his or her day. When a student with ASD can describe thoughts and feelings, the student is closer to skills of self advocacy and expression of his/her needs during the day.

Communication with Faculty/Staff. Establishing a daily or weekly method for communicating with your child’s caseworker or Special Education Teacher can be instrumental in heading off problems before they escalate. Checking in with a staff member who is with your child daily gives you insight into the adjustment to the school year. A daily or weekly email, phone call or visit to the school might establish a line of communication that can be maintained and adjusted as needed as school progresses. These are just a few suggestions for starting the school year for children with ASD. Every child is unique and each family will find techniques for transitioning to school that are helpful year after year. mp Bama Folsom Hager, Ph.D. is a parent of a 13-year-old son living with autism. She is a clinical child psychologist, the Policy Advisor for the Autism Society of Alabama and Co-Chair of the Alabama Interagency Autism Coordinating Council. She can be reached at bamah@autism-alabama.org.

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SPECIAL NEEDS Resource Guide

ADD/ADHD Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (C.H.A.D.D) (800) 233.4050; Provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with AD/HD. In addition to our informative Web site, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting individuals with AD/HD. Please visit us at www. chadd.org. Feingold Association of the United States (800) 321.3287; 554 E. Main St., Ste. 301, Riverhead, NY. (800) 321.3287 Provides informational materials, online/telephone support, and resources. Helps families introduce low-additive dietary programs for children with learning/behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. Www.feingold.org. Learning Disabilities Association of America (412) 341.1515; Offers support programs for parents, an information and referral network, legislation and school program development. Www.ldaamerica.org.

Autism Alabama Autism & Aspergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Statewide Info & Support Network Website offers videos, articles, forums, groups, chats, bulletin board, links and resources. Please visit www.alabamaautism.org. Autism Society of America (800) 328.8476; Provides services in the areas of advocacy, education, awareness and research. 7910 Woodmont Ave., Ste. 310, Bethesda, MD. www.autism-society.org.

Autism Society of Alabama (877) 4.Autism; Provide a resource list of services that have been recommended by families and Montgomery Parents I September 2013

professionals, support groups, lending library, newsletter and Education & Awareness. Please visit our website at www.autism-alabama.org. Autism Alabama (334) 242.8114 An initiative of Special Education Services, Alabama Department of Education, to provide on-line training resources for parents and educational professionals on autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). www. alex.state.al.us/autismAL.

Easter Seals of Central Alabama (334) 288.0240, 2125 E. South Blvd., Montgomery; Our goal is to provide quality life enhancing programs and services to meet the individual needs of our consumers. ESCA offers the following programs; Janice Capilouto Center for the Deaf, Speech Therapy, Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Clinic, Vocational Evaluation, PACE Program, Job Placement, CAN Certification, Learning Disabilities Evaluation, and CARE. Please call or visit us at www.eastersealsca.org. TACA (Talk About Curing Autism) (949) 640.4401; TACA is a not-for-profit foundation of families helping families affected by autism. TACA Alabama Chapter meets in Birmingham/Huntsville/Tuscaloosa area. TACA aims to speed up the cycle from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments. TACA holds monthly meetings throughout the United States that feature educational speakers on important topics and allow family members to connect with one another and stay on top of the latest news in the autism world. Members can check out books on Autism and DVDs/CDs. Please visit us at www. tacanow.org (Alabama Chapter).

United Cerebral Palsy 2520 Fairlane Dr Suite 360, (334) 271.2280; Leading service provider and advocate for adults and children with disabilities, including cerebral palsy. Please visit us at www.ucpmobile.org.

Dyslexia Alabama Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (855) 247.1381; 2510 Monteview Drive, Huntsville, AL 35803. We are here to help improve the lives of individuals with dyslexia through education, legislation and services. For more information or to contact us please email info@ idaalabama.org or visit www.idaalabama.org/ contact.htm. International Dyslexia Association (800) 222.3123; Offers information on products, an online store, conferences, support groups and more for children, teens, college students, parents and educators. www.interdys.org. Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama (Montgomery) (334) 277.9151; Non-profit grassroots organization whose members are individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and the professionals who work with them.

Down Syndrome

Cerebral Palsy

Down Syndrome Alabama, Birmingham (PADS) Parent Advocates Down Syndrome (205) 988.0810; Promote awareness and acceptance, and advocacy for individuals. Offers education and support for individuals. www.downsyndromealabama.org.

4 My Child 1(800) 692.4453; Provides provide all families of children of special needs with Help and Hope For Life. Please visit us at http://www.cerebralpalsy.org.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families Reaching, Influencing, Educating, and Networking for Down Syndrome) A local organization for families, friends and advocates who love an individual with Down

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Syndrome. Please visit us at http://www.downsyndromefriends.org/aboutus.html. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach Group (334) 356.9048 (Prattville) Provides family support, education, links and social opportunities. www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com.

Epilepsy Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama (800) 626.1582 Mission is to educate and support individuals with epilepsy and their families. Provide services and programs; educating and increasing awareness about epilepsy; providing leadership in advocacy for epilepsy issues. www.epilepsyfoundationalabama.org.

Muscular Dystrophy Muscular Dystrophy Association Provides informational materials, networking, referrals to local resources, summer camps and an equipment loan program. 700 Century Park South #129, Birmingham, Alabama. Please call (205) 823.8191 or visit us at www.mdausa.org.

Spina Bifida

Huntington Learning Center

Spina Bifida Association of Alabama Strives to provide families affected by Spina Bifida with the most up-to-date medical and social information related to this birth defect. Visit their website at www.sbaofal.org for contact information. The 2013 Walk-N-Roll for SBA of AL at the Montgomery Zoo will be held October 5, 2013 - Registration begins at 9am and the Walk-N-Roll begins at 10am! Register by calling (334) 221.1707 or clicking on the link on our website.

Success Unlimited

Schools / Tutoring Churchill Academy 395 Ray Thorington Rd., (334) 270.4225 Churchill Academy was founded in 1996 to educate the many children in Montgomery and surrounding areas with unique learning differences that range from Attention Deficit Disorder to Learning Disabled to Gifted. We believe strongly that early intervention is essential to maximize the success of every child with special learning needs. Our youngest classroom, classroom A, identifies areas of strength and weakness in our 6 & 7 year olds and provides appropriate remedial instruction. Please visit our website at www.Churchillacademymontgomery.com.

2800 Zelda Rd., (334) 277.9200; Several teachers on staff with Special Education needs. Tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 - adult.

2328 Fairlane Campus, (334) 213.0803; Success Unlimited Academy is dedicated to teaching all children. In our Special Education Achievement Class, we have provided a special place of learning for those who need more one-on-one instruction and individualized lesson plans. Please visit our website at www.suacademy.com.

Sylvan Learning Center 2640 Zelda Rd., (334) 262.0043; Study skills, (courses for credit) writing/grammar, reading, math and SAT/ACT college preparation. Also individualized tutoring. Diagnostic evaluation. Students improve skills, becoming more motivated and gaining in self-confidence. Certified teachers.

Parks and Recreation Montgomery Area Vaughn Road Park, 3620 Vaughn Road â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Boundless Playground Ida Belle Young Park, 5400 Vaughn Road â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sight Impaired Playground

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Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, (334) 240.4900; Montgomery Zoo is open year round with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Years Day. The zoo opens at 9:00 am and closes at 5:00 pm. The Montgomery Zoo is handicap accessible. Wheelchairs are available for rental at the Zoofari Gift Shop. The play area does have handicap accessible swings. Therapeutic Recreation Center 604 August St., 240.4595 (Frederick Thomas); one of Montgomery’s proudest accomplishments, makes recreation accessible to our city’s special population. The center offers a 26,000 square foot facility that is barrier free, and features a large gymnasium, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, weight room, game rooms, meeting rooms, locker rooms and a kitchen. Spring Prom and Special Olympic competitions are held here. Please visit Parks and Recreation at www.montgomeryal.gov for more information. Thompson Park 1655 Ray Thorington Road – “No Limits” Miracle Field Playground and Miracle League Ball Field. Prattville Area Overlook Memorial, 299 Jay Street, handicap accessible, swings. Pratt Park Child Place, 460 Doster Road, handicap accessible, swings.

Spinner’s Park, 390 West 6th Street, Metal slides for cochlear implants. (334) 361.3609

Recreation/Enrichment Abrakadoodle Susan Parker, (334) 265.5758; Offer several enrichment programs in Montgomery’s public and private school settings as well as daycares. We offer autism and special needs classes which are not limited by age. Please visit us at www. abrakadoodle.com or email sparker@abrakadoodle.com. Access To Recreation Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. 8 Sandra Ct., Newbury Park, CA. (800) 634.4351. Visit the website for more info at www.accesstr.com. Armory Athletics Center (334) 241.2789; 1018 Madison Avenue. Classes offered and combined. Case to case basis upon the need of extra coaches. Please call for more information. Boy Scouts of America 3067 Carter Hill Rd., (334) 262.2697; Provides an educational and social program for boys and young adults.

C.J.’s Dance Factory Sparkle and Soar Special Needs Creative Movement Class Dance is a beautiful activity for ALL children. Children with special needs also deserve the opportunity to experience the dance arts. Raquel Whitehead, former Juillard student and professional dancer, has been inspired by the children she has been working with privately and has decided to offer a dance class beginning this semester. Every class begins with a fun energetic warm up in circle time, followed by creative expression, social interaction, promoting self confidence. The class will also present ballet, jazz movement, and a cool down at the end of each class with choreography to be performed. Classes will be held every Saturday at 10am to 11am at C.J.’s Dance Factory- Downtown Prattville. Parents can come and participate with their child and wheelchairs are welcome! To register please contact Raquel Whitehead, 334-303-0911.

Family Karate Center Carole Coker, (334) 277.4911; 8159 Vaughn Road. Next door to Jalapenos, Peppertree Shopping Center. Only karate center that specializes in teaching special needs students- autistic, Asperger’s Syndrome, Attention Deficit Disorder, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Hearing and Visually impaired, all wheel chairs welcome. Call today for registration and information. We are the only Montgomery school with a Master degree In-

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structor who specializes in special need children. There is no extra cost for the special needs child. A FREE gift for all new enrollments. Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (334) 272.9164, 145 Coliseum Boulevard, Montgomery, Helps girls self value, social and volunteering skills through troop service. M.A.N.E. 3699 Wallahatchie Rd., Pike Rd., (334) 213.0909; The Montgomery Area Non-traditional Equestrians is dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with a wide range of disabilities through safe and effective therapeutic riding, hippotherapy, and equine-assisted learning activities. Please visit our website at http:// maneweb.org. Montgomery Miracle League The Miracle League provides an opportunity for children and adults with physical and/or cognitive disabilities a chance to play baseball. Please visit us on Facebook under Montgomery Miracle League. Special Olympics Alabama 880 South Court Street, Montgomery, (334) 242.3383; Offers year-round sports training and athletic competitions in 18 individual and team Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Please visit us at http:// specialolympicsalabama.com/. Storybook Farms 300 Cusseta Road - Opelika, (334) 444.5966; www.story-book-farm.org; The year-round equine assisted activities are tailored to serve children ages 2 years to young adults who are challenged with life-threatening illnesses, disabilities, mental and/or emotional trauma, and grief. The gentle nature of our horses provides hope and healing. In addition to our “hope on horseback” riding programs, Storybook Farm also provides weekly Enrichment Classes for local school system’s inclusive special education classes, “Forever Families” quarterly events for families created by adoption or fostering, as well as annual events such as Easter Eggstravaganza, SBF Horse Show, Fall Festival, and the Christmas Celebration. Therapeutic Recreation Center 604 August St., (334) 240.4575; One of Montgomery’s proudest accomplishments, makes recreation accessible to our city’s special population. The center offers a 26,000 square foot facility that is barrier free, and features a large gymnasium, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, weight room, game rooms, meeting rooms, locker rooms and a kitchen. Spring Prom and Special Olympic competitions are held here.

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In Alabama, approximately 2,000 children suffer from childhood cancer or serious blood disorders such as sickle cell disease or hemophilia --- and 90% receive their care at the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children's of Alabama. These children and their families are counting on a cure. That's why we've brought together a team that includes some of the brightest minds and most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine. We're committed to finding cures, and you can be too.

Learn how you can help. Call 205.638.9285 or visit ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure 61

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Recreational Camps Camp Smile-a-Mile; Alabama’s Program for Children with Cancer 1(888) 500.7920; Camp Smile-A-Mile’s mission is to provide year round challenging, unforgettable recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients, their families as well as young adult survivors from Alabama at not cost to the families. The purpose is to provide these patients, families and survivors with avenues for fellowship, to help them cope with their disease and to prepare them for life after cancer. Camp Smile-A-Mile, located in downtown Birmingham by Children’s of Alabama, has year round programming including seven annual sessions at Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin. The use of this facility is donated. 1 (334) 500.7920. Please visit us at www.campsam.org. Camp Sugar Falls & Camp Seale Harris (205) 402.0415; www.southeasterndiabetes.org Provides our kids with the chance to learn about effective diabetes management, while at the same time allowing them to interact with other children living with this same illness.

Easter Seals Camp ASSCA (256) 825.9226; www.campascca.org. Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and mental disabilities. Providing weekend and week long sessions- open year-round. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more. Lakeshore Foundation (205) 313.7400; www.lakeshore.org; Offers a wide range of fitness, recreation, athletic and education programs to children and adults who experience diagnostic conditions including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, amputation, and visual impairment.

Support/Educational Services Ala. Council for Developmental Disabilities RSA Union Building, 100 North Union Street Phone: (334) 242.3973, Toll-Free: (800) 232.2158, FAX: (334) 242.0797; Email:addpc@ mh.state.al.us.

Auditory Visual Enhancement of Alabama Call Lorrie P. Piazza at (334) 277.7046; Dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults so that life goals may be more realized. Provides AIT (Auditory Integration Training). Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Dianne Craft – Child Diagnostics (303) 697.7511; Wonderful website filled with information, articles, resources for learning disabilities, dyslexia, auditory processing, right/left brain learning. Nutritional therapy and supplement recommendations. You can purchase Dianne’s DVDs, CDs, Books, vitamins, and other various products through her online store. Please visit http://www.diannecraft.org.

Easter Seals Alabama 2125 East South Blvd., Montgomery; (334) 288.0240; Consists of eight community rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier free recreational camp Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. The Listening Program (888) 228.1798; The Listening Program (TLP) is a music listening therapy that provides engaging brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. It gently trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. Auditory processing problems can lead to academic, emotional, cognitive and social challenges, including problems with ADD, Listening, Speech & language, memory, communication, Social skills, reading, Sensory Integration, Balance and coordination and self regulation. Auditory processing problems are often found in children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, dyslexia and learning disabilities. Please visit us at www.thelisteningprogram.com for more information. March of Dimes Alabama Chapter Birmingham, (205) 824.0103; www.marchofdimes.com; Central Division in Montgomery, (334) 277.6910 The Southeast ADA Center Atlanta, GA. (800) 949.4232; www.ada. southeast.org; The Center provides information, training, and guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and disability access. The Center serves eight states in the Southeast Region including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Nutrition Health Wise (334) 277.9925; 5147 Atlanta Highway. Provides nutritional supplements for children and adults with celiac disease, autism, ADD/ADHD and other learning disabilities. We offer a wide variety organic, egg free, gluten free food products for individuals with celiac disease and autism. Please visit us at www.healthwisefoods.com. www.montgomeryparents.com

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The Herb Shop (334) 271.2882; 8151 Vaughn Rd. We have a whole section dedicated to special needs and learning disabilities. Please visit our store for individual supplement recommendations. Lee Silsby, Compound Pharmacy (800) 918.8831; Compounding Pharmacy focusing on children with Autism. Please visit www.leesilsby.com Our Kids (877) 533.7457; Cleveland Hts., OH. Our Kids was founded as the result of the joy Lee Silsby Compounding Pharmacy experiences in working with Autistic children. Our Kids focuses 100% of their product line exclusively on supplements for Autistic children and designing innovative, high quality products. Please visit us at www. ourkidsasd.com.

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(334) 288.0240; 2125 East South Blvd., Montgomery; Our goal is to provide quality life enhancing programs and services to meet the individual needs of our consumers. ESCA offers the following programs; Janice Capilouto Center for the Deaf, Speech Therapy, Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Clinic, Vocational Evaluation, PACE Program, Job Placement, CAN Certification, Learning Disabilities Evaluation, and CARE. Please call or visit us at www.eastersealsca.org

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Prattville Baptist Speech & Hearing Clinic (334) 358.6501; 635 McQueen Smith Road, Suite D. Center for Advanced Therapy. Provide speech, hearing, OT and physical therapy department. Speech and Hearing Assoc. of Alabama (256) 325.8885; Info@AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org The Therapy Center at Baptist Medical Center East (334) 244.8345; 400 Taylor Rd. Only facility offering families and the communities of central Alabama comprehensive rehabilitation services. Individualized treatment is provided by experienced and licensed occupational, physical and speech therapists. The Alabama Public school systems offer speech-language evaluations and therapy (if eligible) for children 3 and up. This is available to children, by law, regardless of if they go to private, public or are homeschooled. 63

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Early Intervention Alabama Institute for the Deaf & Blind (256) 761.3200; 205 South Street Talladega, AL. AIDB is the most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service system serving children and adults who are deaf, blind and multi-disabled. Children ages 3 to 21 are served through the Alabama School for the Deaf, the Alabama School for the Blind and the Helen Keller School of Alabama. Please call or visit our website at www.aidb.org. The Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (334) 262-0824; Serving Lee County and the surrounding area. Missy Byrd, Missy@aidb. state.al.us serving the Opelika area or Robin Blake at Blake.Robin@aidb.state.al.us serving the Auburn area. Alabama School for the Blind- 705 South Street East, Talladega, Al. (256) 761.3259 Alabama School for the Deaf- 205 South Street East, Talladega, Al. (256) 761.3212 Helen Keller School of Alabama- 1101 Fort Lashley Avenue, Talladega, Al. (256) 761.3377 or please visit us at www.aidb.org/helen-kellerschool-of-alabama Child Find (800) 543.3098; Child Find is the process used in Alabama for identifying all children who may be eligible for services and refer-

United Cerebral of Central Alabama: Horizon EI Program (334) 271.2280; 2520 Fairlane Dr., Suite 360, Montgomery, AL.

ring them to Alabama’s Early Intervention System. The Children’s Center of Montgomery 310 North Madison Terrace, (334) 262.4850; Montgomery Public School for Special Needs. Offer services for cognitive delayed or multihandicapped. Please call or visit us at www. children.mps-al.org/.

Magazines/Publications

Easter Seals of Central Alabama (334) 288.0240; 2125 East South Blvd, Montgomery Our goal is to provide quality life enhancing programs and services to meet the individual needs of our consumers. ESCA offers the following programs: Janice Capilouto Center for the Deaf, Speech Therapy, Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Clinic, Vocational Evaluation, PACE Program, Job Placement, CAN Certification, Learning Disabilities Evaluation, and CARE. Please call or visit us at www.easterseals.com. The PLAY Project Wiggles & Giggles (334) 264.8887; 1031 Oak Street, Montgomery. Play and Language for Autistic Youngster. Our program emphasizes the importance of helping parents become their child’s best P.L.A.Y. partner. Please visit us at www.playproject.org. PPEI Early Intervention (334) 832.1080; 310 North Madison Terrace, Montgomery.

ADDitude Magazine (888) 762.8475; Bi-monthly lifestyle magazine for individuals with ADD/ADHD. www.additudemag.com. Attention Bi-monthly magazine with information and support for people affected by ADHD, (800) 233.4050; www.chadd.org. Exceptional Parent Magazine 1(877) 372.7368; Monthly publication that provides information, support, ideas, encouragement and outreach for parents and families of children with disabilities and the professionals who work with them. Please visit us at www. exceptionalparent.com.

Southeast Resources Alabama Department of Rehab Services (334) 293.7500 or (800) 441.7607 (Montgomery office); (800) 205.9986 (Alabama’s Toll Free

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Hotline for ADA Information); www.rehab.state. al.us/ada Alabama Alliance for the Mentally Ill (334) 396.4797; 1401 I-85 Parkway Suite A, Montgomery. www.namialabama.org Alabama’s Early Intervention System and Department of Rehabilitation Services, Birth-3 years (334) 293.7500. Programs for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities, 602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery. Please visit us at www. rehab.alabama.gov. Alabama PTA 470 S. Union St. Montgomery; (334) 834.2501 or visit us at www.alabamapta.org American Foundation for the Blind 100 Peachtree Street, Suite 620, Atlanta, Ga. (404) 525.2303 American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (800) 638.8255; Committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. www.asha.org/public/ Arc of Alabama 557 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery (334) 262.7688; Advocates for people with disabilities. Please visit us at www.thearcofalabama.com. Blind or Visually Impaired, Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind www.AIDB.org Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind- Mobile, AL; (251) 432.7777 Career & Technical Education Alabama State Department of Education- Montgomery, AL; (334) 242.9111; www.alsde.edu/ Client Assistance Program Department of Rehabilitation Services, Montgomery; (800) 228.3231

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Developmental Disabilities Alabama Department of Mental Health-Montgomery. (334) 242.3454; www.mh.alabama.gov/

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Developmental Disabilities Council Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities Montgomery, (800) 232.2158; http://acdd.org Governor’s Office on Disabilities Montgomery, AL (888) 879.3582; Provide information on Disabilities.

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Medicaid Waivers These waivers help those families who make too much money for Medicaid but “fall through the cracks” of their insurance. June Perry, Alabama Department of Public Services, (334) 293-7160; Ask for sail waiver program. State of Alabama of Independent living waiver – (800) 441.7607 Mental Health Rep. for Children/Youth Office of Children’s Services/ Alabama Department of Mental HealthMontgomery, AL. (334) 242.3454; www.mh.alabama.gov Montgomery Scottish Rite Learning Center (334) 277.8109; 565 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery. Testing for children up to 9th grade with dyslexia. Programs for Children with Disabilities Ages 3-5, P.O. Box 302101, Montgomery, (334) 242.8114 or (800) 392.8020

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Protection and Advocacy Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP)The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL. (800) 826.1675; www.adap.net Respite Care Temporary short-term relief for caregivers of individuals with special needs such as: developmental and physical disabilities or other chronic illnesses that are related to health concerns, medical fragility, or for those at risk of abuse and neglect. Please visit us at http://alabamarespite.org. Birmingham, Al.; 1 (866).RESTALA; alabamarespite@aol.com Southeast ADA Center 1419 Mayson Street, Atlanta, GA; (800) 949.4232; www.facebook.com/southeastadacenter or www.adasoutheast.org.

Special Education Services Alabama Department of EducationMontgomery. (800) 392.8020; www.alsde.edu/ Special Format Library Alabama Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. 6030 Monticello Drive, Montgomery; (800) 392.5671; http://statelibrary.alabama.gov/ Special Health Care Needs Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services/ Children’s Rehabilitation Service- Montgomery; (800) 441.7607; www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs State Department of Education: Special Education (334) 242.8114 or (800) 392.8020 State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (334) 293.7500; 602 S. Lawrence St., Montgomery. Please visit us at www.rehab.alabama.gov. Technology- STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response for Alabamians with Disabilities) Montgomery, AL; (800) 782.7656; www.rehab.alabama.gov/star University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Civitan International Research Center-University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham, AL; (800) 822.2472; www.circ.uab.edu mp

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TheFlyLady

A Flight Plan For You and Your Home. by Marla Cilley

Parents Should Do Their Best, Saving Saturdays forReturn Fun! But Not Expect Too Much in Most of us have played “Catch Up on the Weekends” our whole lives! This has put a sense of dread into our daily life. We no longer looked forward to a wonderful weekend full of fun with our friends and family. This all started when we were children; it is how our mothers did it. We would have to spend all day Saturday cleaning house or we were banished to our rooms for the evening. I truly believe this is why we despise cleaning house. It has always been a punishment for us. I want you to have a reward... and a Saturday to play is a great gift for you! The solution to saving your Saturdays is very simple. First, let’s think about how many hours you spend frantically cleaning to catch up from a whole week of tossing your routines out the window! Between our piling and procrastination our homes look like a bomb went off. You can look at a room and see evidence of

the things that were done this week. For example, the package that had to be wrapped for a birthday party or the week’s worth of mail piled on the kitchen counter that is about to fall onto the floor. On Saturday you don’t wake up excited about cleaning all day. You sleep in a bit then drag around in your pajamas for a couple of hours with a pot of coffee to get you moving in the right direction. By the time you get started it is already noon! The next six hours are spent cleaning like a banshee so that you don’t feel terrible. All the while you are yelling out orders for everyone in the family to get in gear! I get sick just thinking about what we have done to us and our families, all because we lie to ourselves with these words: I DON’T HAVE TIME! The truth is that what you don’t have are ROUTINES! You have the time, you

just choose not to do anything because you don’t think you have six hours to do it right! Well, you don’t have six hours to clean like a banshee, but you do have seven minutes. Implementing just seven minutes in the morning, when you come home from work and before bed will give you back your Saturdays. Maybe we can call this our 7 Minute Saturday Rescue. The secret is to pick up after yourself and get the family to do it right along with you! It can become a fun game. Set your timer three times a day: morning, when you get home from work or school, and just before bed. Everyone has to put away the things that belong to them. It is up to you to remember to do it. When you forget you only make it harder to do the next time. With your piles put away and hot spots extinguished, you are off to have some weekend fun! For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, see her website and join her free mentoring group at www.FlyLady.net. Also check out her books, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2013 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

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Girl Scouts of Alabama Recruits for New Members

What do you want your next adventure to be? Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kayaking, riding horses, performing theatre, creating out of this world science experiments, or camping out in the woods, Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama wants YOU! Girls between the ages of 5 and 17 and adult volunteers are invited to become Girl Scouts to have fun, make new friends, and change the world. Girl Scouts offers young women the opportunity to build lasting leadership skills and friendships in a fun, educational environment. Each year, Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama serves more than 9,000 girls and 3,000 adult volunteers through programs and events designed to accomplish its mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. STEM programs keep girls interested in science, technology, engineering and math curriculums, while girlled programming provides an environment for them to take leadership roles. While joining a troop is the most common option for participation, there are other ways for girls to become and participate as a Girl Scout. Individual girls may join as a Juliette, which provides more flexibility for girls and parents with active schedules. While allowing them to take part in the many activities provided by GSSA including camp, STEM programs, trips, product sales and more, they can work toward earning badges and other goal-oriented programming at their own pace. Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama is also looking for key volunteers to make each girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adventure a time she will never forget. Each year, many girls looking forward to meeting new friends, learning about STEM programs, and growing their leadership skills, miss out on those opportunities due to a lack of adult volunteers. Whether someone has a little or a lot of time to give, every attempt is made to meet the availability and interests of the volunteer with commitments ranging from one or two events a year to more long-term opportunities. To find your next adventure in Girl Scouts, visit www.girlscoutssa.org/NewMemberEvent or call 1-800-239-6636. 69

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A Page in a Book by Gerry Paige Smith

The Beauty of Solitude Because our children are growing up in an age of social media, flash mobs and Skype, it’s easy to assume that they will never be alone. But there are times that they will be alone, either by choice or through circumstance, and it’s important that children understand the differences between being alone and being lonely. Being alone gives children the opportunity to hone in on details typically lost in the clatter of company; to appreciate sights, sounds and feelings that can be buried by outside stimulation. Even loneliness has its place in our hearts as it makes our time of reunion and together moments even more cherished and special. The following titles explore solitude, loneliness and alone time with great beauty and sensitivity, helping young readers to appreciate the special times that are theirs, alone.

Snook Alone

by Marilyn Nelson, Illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering (Candlewick Press) Nothing gives Snook more pleasure than his days spent in the company of Abba Jacob, with whom he shares a monastic life on a quiet island. Snook spends every day by Abba Jacob’s side while he works, prays, and gardens: they are a constant pair. But when a violent storm separates them, Snook is left stranded on the island to make his way alone. At first sad and afraid, Snook begins to explore his home on his own. New adventures and elements of the island are Snook’s alone to discover with increasing pleasure while he waits for the return of his friend. Recognizing the fear that comes with isolation, this title offers a poignant balance, celebrating the heightened awareness that comes with being alone. An inspiration for kids who struggle with separation and alone time, this story finds the bright side to being solitary while you wait to be reunited with your companions.

Silence

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by Lemniscates (Magination Press) Told from the perspective of a young girl, “Silence” is an expansive exploration of the quiet beauty of being alone. When the girl is by herself, she can hear her heart beating as she runs, her breath moving to and fro. The sounds of her legs swimming, her feet dancing might be lost in a crowd, but when she’s alone, she can hear them like never before. Birds talking, bees buzzing and the wind blowing are not hidden behind the murmur of conversation and company. Being alone among silence gives voice to the quieter sounds, awakening subtle senses that may be rarely used in a world of distractions that demand our attention. The undiscovered pleasures of solitude and silence are everywhere in this breezy and beautiful ode to quiet times and quiet spaces.

Octopus Alone

by Divya Srinivasan (Penguin / Viking) Octopus is very comfortable in the quiet confines of her cave, watching the underwater world and its beauties float by. But when a group of seahorses discover her refuge (and her), their friendly interest and enthusiasm feel like too much to bear. Octopus quietly goes into camouflage mode and sneaks away. As she slips into the darker deeps alone, Octopus finds herself enjoying the spaces where no one is watching. She twirls, wiggles and somersaults as she revels in the peaceful, quiet darkness. She is comfortable and happy. But after a while, she remembers the sea horses and decides to return – refreshed by the solitude – to get reacquainted with her new friends. Beautifully transitive illustrations celebrate both the lively wonders of the sea and the serenity of the deep ocean. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Little Miss River Region Pageant To Be Held September 28

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The Little Miss River Region Pageant will be held on Saturday, September 28, at the RiversEdge Church in Montgomery. The pageant is open to females, ages one month to 17 years, with eight age categories. This is a year-long reign where the titleholders will attend events through the River Region. Applications are due by Friday, September 13. Age categories are: Baby Miss: 1 month-12 months, Tiny Miss: 13 -23 months, Wee Miss: 2-3 years, Petite Miss: 4-5 years, Little Miss: 6-7 years, Pre-Teen Miss: 8-10 years, Young Miss: 11-13 years and Teen Miss: 14- 17 years. Attire for the pageant is long or short pageant dress or heirloom dress for ages 1 month to 5 years and a casual wear outfit. For ages 6 years and up, attire is a long pageant gown and casual wear outfit. This is a semi-natural pageant where age-appropriate makeup and attire are stressed. NO flippers, hair pieces/extensions or false eyelashes are allowed. To learn more about the rules of the pageant, download the application at www.SterlingMiss.orgor call (334) 313-5444. Vendor space is also available at this pageant on a first come-first serve basis. Applications for the pageant and vendors may be found online or at the Bridal Boutique & Tux Shoppe (contestants registration), located at 127 W. Main Street, in downtown Prattville; A Touch of Class Formals in Wetumpka; and Brenda’s Formals in Clanton.

F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 T RADI T I O NAL W O RS H I P 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 AM S UNDAY S CH O O L 9: 45 AM T H E W E L L 11: 00 AM

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I have worked with babies, toddlers and preschoolers in childcare centers for years. I also teach early childhood education courses at the college level. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve recently started seeing more high school students in my college courses, through a dual enrollment program. I quickly saw that communicating with teens requires a different skill set than what I was used to when working with small children and adults. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Here are some strategies I have found effective in communicating with teens. Try them in your home and see the difference they can make.

Get their attention. Today’s teens are constantly multitasking. They eat lunch, do school work, text multiple friends and download their favorite music all at the same time. You’ve got to be interesting to compete with that! Do the unexpected from time to time. I’ve even showed up for class wearing a blue wig to grab the attention of my younger students.

Give them the benefit of the doubt. Start off assuming that they are mature enough to handle the information. You can always scale it back later if needed. Addressing them on a younger level from the beginning can be insulting and send their defensive walls up. I speak to the teens in my college class in the same manner as the adults and then bring it down a notch if I see it is warranted.

Ask them to repeat information back to you. The high school students in my classes were forever asking me the same questions over and over again. I started asking them to repeat the info back to me. I also told them to write it down. This reduced the repeat questions.

Don’t attempt to compete with electronics. Trying to talk when they are playing with their phone, tablet or other devices is useless. I’ve noticed that many young people seem to go deaf with their electronics in their hands! I’ve had to softly put my hand on a student’s arm many times to get their attention. Make sure your teen is focused on you before you attempt to ask a question, give instructions or have a conversation.

Find some common ground. I had a student who was extremely withdrawn. She entered class at the last minute and rushed out as soon as it was over. She didn’t voluntarily participate in discussions and gave one word responses when called on. Then I brought up one of my favorite authors in class. She told me after class that she had read one of his books and asked for a suggestion of which one to read next. She started opening up in class after that. Sometimes it just takes finding something in common to open the lines of communication. Maybe there is a hobby or interesting conversation just waiting for the two of you to enjoy.

A few other tidbits I’ve picked up: 1) Sometimes they feel like they just can’t talk to their parents. I’ve had teenage students come

to me with issues big and small that they were embarrassed, ashamed or afraid to discuss with their parents. A few students have told me that they simply didn’t want to worry their parent with the problem. Make sure your teens have other responsible adults they can turn to when talking to you is just out of the question for them. 2) They tell their friends everything. I’ve overhead some very private information being exchanged between pals. If you want to know what is going on with your teen, get in good with their friends! 3) Teen communication revolves around texting. If you don’t know how to text, learn how. In fact, ask your child for help! Then start texting them daily. 4) They want to have strong relationships with their parents. I’ve heard teens express jealousy of another student’s close relationship with a parent numerous times. Hopefully these tips will help you both have a stronger bond. My own daughter is eleven. Working with my teenage students has given me some good preparation for her teen years, which are right around the corner. My texting speed is improving each day! mp Rachael Moshman is a mom, freelance writer and educator. She lives with her daughter, husband, three cats and a mannequin named Vivian. Find her at www.rachaelmoshman.com.

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Tonya Speed’s Dancers Host Carnival Blowout

Step right up and join the fun at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connections first Carnival Blowout Block Party Saturday, September 28. The event will be held onsite at the studio and include snow cones, food, dancing, karaoke, your favorite carnival games, and face painting. The event will be put on by the TSDC Company which consists of 42 girls ages 7-18 who compete regionally throughout the Southeast at numerous dance competitions. Also, your favorite characters, princesses and superheroes will be onsite for a visit and pictures! Proceeds of this event will go to help fund the company during its 20132014 dance endeavors. Also, a donation will be made to the MontgomeryTherapeutic Recreation Center. Call 277-1098 for event details and check our Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection Facebook page. Children and parents of all ages are welcome! At left, one group of youngsters at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection has been learning choreography to Broadway show tunes from “Hairspray,” “Grease,” “Annie” and many more.

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Kohl’s Rewards 27 Alabama Youth Volunteers

The Kohl’s Department Stores’ Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program recently recognized more than 2,300 young volunteers nationwide who have made a positive impact in their communities through volunteerism. Twenty-seven youth from Alabama each received a $50 gift card and recognition certificate from Kohl’s to honor their community service efforts. In 2013, Kohl’s celebrates its 13th year of rewarding remarkable young volunteers. These winners also qualified for the chance to receive a $1,000 regional scholarship for higher education, which Kohl’s awarded in July. In total this year, Kohl’s will recognize more than 2,300 young volunteers with more than $400,000 in scholarships and prizes. Local winners include: Kristina Armstrong and Laura Henry of Prattville; Jasmine Lucas and Timia Sims of Montgomery; and Sutton Smith of Auburn. The Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program is part of Kohl’s Cares, Kohl’s philanthropic program focused on improving the lives of children. For more information on the Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program, visit www.kohlskids.com.

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Family Karate Holds Open House for Military Families

The Family Karate Center loves to welcome new military families each summer for their year stay with the Air War College. A host of Open House Saturday celebrations welcomed each family in with a free demonstration, refreshments, free classes to try out at Family Karate Center, and a free karate uniform, compliments of the Teen Team Demo Team. New parents living at Deer Creek and surrounding areas loved the family atmosphere and the discipline each student from all age groups demonstrated while welcoming the families. Parents Night Out added the fun to the new students coming to Montgomery with a pizza party, movie night, scavenger hunt, and video game, dance, and hula-hoop contest. The Parents Night Out Pizza Back to School Bash will be Friday, September 27th, 6-9:30 pm. All new students attend Parents Night Out FREE this month! Call 220-9319 or 277-4911 to reserve your spot for this GREAT date night for parents! Family Karate Center is located at 8159 Vaughn Road, in Peppertree Shopping Center, next door to Jalapeno’s and Charlotte’s Jewelry, close to Chappy’s Deli! Call 277-4911 for more information.

Girl Scout Troop Earns Bronze Award

Girl Scout Troop 9162 of Prattville is ensuring the Girl Scout motto of “Doing a Good Turn Daily.” The troop is putting together 50 emergency starter kits to encourage pet owners to be prepared to care for their pets in an emergency instead of leaving the pet behind. By doing so, they have earned their Girl Scout Bronze Award. Open only to Girl Scout Juniors, the Bronze Award is the highest award a Junior can achieve. The process of earning the award requires the girls to explore their community, choose a Bronze Award project, make a plan, put the plan in motion and spread the word. The troop started its five-month-long project by spending more than 20 hours learning how to care for animals in an emergency disaster situation. They spoke to a local veterinarian and toured the clinic; then walked the dogs and helped with adoptions at the Autauga Humane Society. The Girl Scouts also made their own personal emergency pet kits for practice. Among those made were kits for cats, dogs, guinea pigs, birds and even a snake. After making more than 50 emergency starter kits for pets, the girls donated them to the humane shelter to be given with each pet adoption. The troop also learned how to make a video about putting a kit together. When asked why Troop 9162 chose this project, troop leader Stacy Kotila replied, “The girls have pets and love animals of all kinds. After Hurricane Sandy hit, the girls asked about the animals so we started to talk about how important it is to be ready for your pet in an emergency.” Liz Brent, Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama CEO, said, ”To earn their Girl Scout Bronze Award, Troop 9162 discovered a need in the community, completed this project, and in turn made the Autauga County community a better place.”

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Local Agency Handles International Adoption Home Studies

Wetumpka Scouts Enjoy Search & Rescue Demo

The Search and Rescue K9 Team of Elmore County recently visited with Cub Scouts from Packs 50 and 429, and Boy Scouts from Troops 50 and 13. Accompanied by bloodhound John Boy, members of the team shared about their organization and then demonstrated how the dogs are able to find a missing person based on following a scent.

NextGen Martial Arts Recognizes Student Support

NextGen Martial Arts held testing on July 28 for all belt levels. This testing was especially exciting because it marked two years of NextGen Martial Arts becoming a school. Master Todd Newsom thanked all of the parents and students for their support. Students who were a part of the very first testing were presented with a school patch as appreciation for their dedication and loyalty. Siblings Isabelle, Grant, and Graeson Scott, shown below, were three of NextGen’s first students. They also were part of a group of the very first XMA (Extreme Martial Arts) class offered. For information on joining the NextGen family, visit www.nextgenmartialarts.com or call Master Newsom at (334) 590-3759.

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Agape of Central Alabama was created in 1978 by dedicated Christians who responded to the church’s desire to help vulnerable children. Over the years, Agape’s ministry has included counseling women in crisis pregnancy, domestic adoption, and foster care. As Christians continue to answer the call to “defend the cause of the fatherless,” there is a great desire to include not only the state of Alabama but the world. That is why Agape began taking steps to add an International Adoption Program to our ministry. We are very excited to announce that as of June 2013, Agape is now Hague accredited and doing international adoption home studies! If you would like more information, please contact Megan Malinoski, at megan@agapeforchildren.org or (334) 532-1657.

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Family Calendar Ongoing

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

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September 2013

expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta. com. The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 349-4235 or visit www. chomonline.org. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops and Parties for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hourlong workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@ cupcakesbytish.com. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from FebruaryMay 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 1-800240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www. oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org).

W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. 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]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com River Region Contra Dancing Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and families are welcome. All levels of experience – including no experience. Dancing is on 1st & 3rd Fridays at 7 p.m. at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 5260 Vaughn Road. For more info, visit www.riverregioncontradance. com or call Katherine Thomas at 334-361-6572. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/ Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone

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Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/ Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Museum galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next class is September 18. 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 2938497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical

Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@ aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. 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. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. Baptist Medical Center East. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Provides expectant mothers information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org to schedule. 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 pa-

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

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Hannah Taylor at 4099477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore

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Family Calendar

September 2013

Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and gettogethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Gambling Support

Cancer Support

Grief Support

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

Divorce Support

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

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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

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

in Room 3102. This group is open to family members and friends who have lost a loved one as the result of suicide. Group offers a confidential environment in which to receive support, hope and information. Contact Rev. Susan Beeson, 272-8622. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen. org or call (334) 328-1202.

Homeschool Support

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

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to 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 2728622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431.

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Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 2019638 or 652-1431 for more info. 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 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChaseNE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Montgomery offers General Membership meetings on 4th Mondays (beginning January 28, 2013) at the Dalraida UMC annex building at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are open to anyone who is interested in issues concerning mental health. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group continues to meet on 2nd Mondays, starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Dalraida UMC annex building. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for directions/ details. Beginning in February, NAMI Montgomery will offer the 12-week “Family To Family” education program (free) on Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. at the Bell Road Lowder Regional Library. Call 271-2280 to register. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, WILL NOT MEET in FEBRUARY. Monthly meetings will resume 3rd Tuesdays in March from 6:30-8 p.m. in room 3104. This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For more info, call 272-8622. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www. ahif.org Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Parent Support

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan

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Family Calendar Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his five-year-old daughter Erin. It gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. All fathers in the River Region are invited to bring their daughters to the library to read, laugh and have fun. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more information on this event, call Ron Simmons at 334-777-8596. 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, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (569-1500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_ heather@yahoo.com). Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For

September 2013

moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http:// montgomerymultiplesclub.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, are you looking for a good excuse to get out of the house? MOPS is a great opportunity to hone your mothering skills, meet new friends, and learn new things while deepening your relationship with God. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are 1st and 3rd Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (Oct. 3 & 17) Call Kristi Gay at (334) 233-8989 or visit www.montgomeryfbc.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

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

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the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com

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, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or e-mail trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

This Month Sunday, September 1

Labor Day Weekend Concert The AMP on Lake Martin. The Summer Concert Series climaxes with another jammin’ Labor Day Weekend concert featuring Vegabonds, Corey Smith, and Sister Hazel. Gates open at 5:30 with the show starting at 6:30. Tickets are currently on sale online only but will be available soon at The Company Store at Russell

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Family Calendar Crossroads. Visit www.lmat.org or call (256) 397-1019 for details.

Monday, September 2

Family Fun Day in Pike Road Summer Fest Activities originally scheduled for July 4 were postponed to Labor Day due to forecast weather conditions. The annual fireworks show and all accompanying Summer Fest activities will be part of a day of family fun in Pike Road. Along with the fireworks and festivities at The Waters, Labor Day in Pike Road will also feature Jazz on the Grass at Rolling Hills Park. Jazz on the Grass is a music festival brought to Pike Road annually through a partnership with WVAS-FM. Giant Egg Omelets, Mullet Tosses and Big Wheel Racing: Rituals Photo Exhibition at Old Alabama Town -- Through September 23 On exhibit now at Old Alabama Town is an up-close photographic look at some of the craziest, most outlandish traditions in small town America. Photographer Mark Alan Francis shares his favorite images captured while traveling to more than 40 festivals across the U.S. during a three-year period. This exhibit will be on display at Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus St., open Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This exhibit is free to the public. Visit www.oldalabamatown.com for more info.

September 2013

Alabama welcomes United States Representative Martha Roby as the keynote speaker. The prayer breakfast is a time for women to come together and empower one another to change their world through prayer, while also honoring women who have made a difference in their community. Tickets are $35 and table sponsorships are available. To order your ticket or for more details, please visit www.agapeforchildren. org/women or call 272-9466.

Thursday, September 5

“An Introduction to Substance Abuse” Room 22, Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 6610 Vaughn Road in Montgomery. 6:30 p.m. Sponsored by the Samaritan Counseling Center and Aldersgate United

options. Please call The Samaritan Counseling Center for more details at 262-7787. Please park on the left side of the church. Brantwood Children’s Home Hosts “Music with a Mission: a Concert Featuring Donica Knight” Montgomery Riverfront Amphitheater at 7 p.m. “Music with a Mission” is a fundraiser designed to help offset the signifigant budget cuts that Brantwood, a home for abused and neglected children, has received, and to give the community the opportunity to be involved.

Friday, September 6

Late Night with YMCA Goodtimes -- Also September 13, 20 & 27 A weekly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of

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

Wednesday, September 4

Faith*Women*Change Women’s Prayer Breakfast Wynlakes Country Club, 8-9:30 a.m. Agape of Central

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Methodist Church. Speakers include Patrick Tidwell, licensed marriage & family therapist, and Christy Holding, licensed professional counselor. This event is open to the community free of charge. We will address relevance, signs, symptoms and possible treatment

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.

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Saturday, September 7

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. AUM’s Annual Pet Adopt-a-thon 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., in front of Moore Hall on the AUM campus. A dozen rescue organizations from across the state will bring cats and dogs of many breeds, ages and sizes that are in need of a forever home to the AUM campus. If adoption isn’t an option at this time, make a difference by donating much-needed supplies to the participating shelters. For more information, contact Tink Lucy-Bouler at (334) 244-3350 or tlucybou@aum.edu. 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 “make a football ring toss game.” 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. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community on Saturdays this spring. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Santuck Flea Market An outdoor flea market with more than 450 booths featuring arts, crafts, antiques, novelties, imports, food, and more. The Santuck Flea Market is open the first Saturday of each month from daylight until 2 p.m. RAIN OR SHINE. Free admission, free parking available. Call 567-7400. “Walk of Hope” Hosted by Hemophilia and Bleeding Disorders of Alabama and the National Hemophilia Foundation The Union Station Train Shed in downtown Montgomery, 300 Water Street. Registration for 1-mile fun walk or the 5k walk begins at 8 a.m./the walk starts at 9 a.m. The HBDA Parade starts at 8:30 a.m. Family fun! Free food! Live music! Activities for all! T-shirts for all (as long as they last)! Sign up now by visiting www. hemophilia.org/walk and click on the tab marked “AL”. Recruit team members from your friends, family, coworkers, church buddies and neighbors. We need volunteers just like you! Call (334) 277-9446 OR contact Leslie Bailey at lesliebailey@hbda.us Etiquette, Matters & More -- Saturdays through September 28 10–11:30 a.m. Upper Kingston Community Center, Prattville. For grades 1-6. Class taught by Felicia Tyus. $30 per month. Sessions include: Etiquette in Public Places, Proper Introductions, Social and Communication Skills, Posture, Dining Do’s and Don’ts, Place setting, Communicating 101 & More. Class session ends with a field trip to a restaurant, a certificate and picture in the newspaper. Min./ Max.: 10/25. Registration at the Doster Community Center. Call (334) 361-3640. Jasmine Hill Gardens in Wetumpka Open Saturdays through October 9 a.m.-5 p.m. “Alabama’s Little Corner of Greece” now features more than 20 acres of year-round floral beauty and classical sculpture, including new statuary honoring Olympic heroes. The Olympian Centre welcomes visitors with a video presentation of Jasmine Hill’s history and a display of Olympic memorabilia from the Games of past years. A tour of Jasmine Hill, now completely accessible to visitors with disabilities, offers spectacular and ever-changing views, including our full-scale replica of the Temple of Hera ruins as found in Olympia, Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Flame. For more info, visit www.jasminehill.org or call (334) 263-5713.

Everything we do is designed for

learning.

Call today to schedule a personal tour! Halcyon Park KinderCare 6955 Halcyon Park Drive

334-270-5955

Buckboard KinderCare 3025 Buckboard Road

334-277-3720

Shelia Blvd. KinderCare 701 Sheila Blvd., Prattville

334-365-0470

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Family Calendar Monday, September 9

Math & Science for Preschoolers Classes begin for “3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science)” and are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children ages 3-5 will learn math and science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. long and $8/week. Join us at 1585 E Main St, Prattville (next to Pri-Med), to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook for times. To register or for more info, contact Susan Trombley at 321blasttimes@outlook.com or (334) 380-1879.

Tuesday, September 10

Rhema Community-Wide Women’s Bible Study Tuesdays through October 22 Saint James United Methodist Church. Choose between 9:30-11 a.m. or 6:30-8 p.m. Free Bible study centered on “Fire of His Presence: a study on the tabernacle of Moses.” Childcare available by reservation only for morning session, $5/week. To register, contact Sarah Olsen at 277-3037 or solsen@sjlife. com.

Wednesday, September 11

Master Gardener ‘Lunch & Learn’ Program Noon-1 p.m. Bring your own lunch to the Alabama Cooperative Extension Services (ACES) at 340 Queen Ann Road, just off Highway 14 on the west side of Wetumpka. The program is free and beverages will be provided at no cost. The topic for September is “Southern Heirloom Gardens,” presented by Central Alabama Master Gardeners’ Assn. (CAMGA) member Jane Mobley of Wetumpka. The ‘Lunch & Learn’ series will continue on the second Wednesday of each month. For

September 2013

more information, call 567-6301 or visit the Extension Office on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka. Pike Road Volunteer Fire Department and Ladies Auxiliary Annual 9/11 Memorial Service Pike Road Town Hall at 6:30 p.m. Keynote speaker will be Carlos Bersabe, USAF and firefighter. A balloon release will follow the ceremony and commemorative items will be distributed. Prattville September 11 Ceremony In honor and remembrance of our fellow Americans who lost their lives on this tragic day in American history, Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr. has directed that flags at all city facilities be lowered to half-staff. As an additional mark of respect, City personnel will join Woodmen of the World Lodge 298 and local elected officials for an “In Honor and Remembrance” ceremony at Prattville Fire Station 3, which is located at 1904 Briarwood Street. The ceremony will commence at 7:46 a.m. in acknowledgement of the moment the first plane hit the first tower on that fateful day.

Friday, September 13

Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also September 27 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the

homeschooling process. We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http:// www.onlineecho.com

Saturday, September 14 2nd Saturday Riverfront Festival

5-8 p.m. every second Saturday through September. This free event is perfect for the entire family! Enjoy live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages, face painting, magician and balloon twisting, and a variety of food vendors and cocktails from SandBAR. No coolers or outside food allowed. Free admission. For more info, call 334-625-2100 or visit www. funontheriver.net. Walk/Run Benefits Family Guidance Center The Shoppes at Eastchase. Scenic 5K and 10K routes offered. Electronic chip timing system. Race day registration will begin at 6 a.m. Opening ceremony and warm-ups begin at 7 a.m. by the fountain. The event will begin at 7:30. Free childcare for children 10 and under. Food, door prizes, and free massages will

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be provided. Proceeds benefit the Family Guidance Center of Alabama. Register at www.active.com/running/montgomery-al/family-guidance-center-of-alabama-walkrun-2013.

Thursday, September 19

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “While the World Watched: A Birmingham Bombing Survivor Remembers,” presented by Carolyn M. McKinstry. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6:30-7:30 p.m. Get an up-close look at artists, their work, and the creative process in this unique program, designed for artists as well as those interested in art. Six times a year artists have the opportunity to bring a work of art to the Museum, show it to other artists and participants, and have friendly feedback about the work. Cost: $20 for Museum or Art Guild members/$35 for non-members. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333. Autauga County PALS Electronic Recycling Event Autauga County PALS and C E & E Solutions of Prattville host a Monthly Electronic Recycling Drop-off third Thursdays at Pratt Plaza, from 3-6 pm. Recycle your old, broken, or obsolete TVs ($10), cell phones, radios, stereos, computers, laptops, cameras, toaster ovens, microwaves, vcrs, remotes, printers, scanners, pagers, tape recorders, vacuums, irons, hair driers, keyboards, monitors, projectors, video games, speakers, server hubs, turntables, CD/DVD players, etc. Divert old electronics from the landfill, free up storage space, & create jobs by recycling. ($10 fee for TVs). CE&E (568-9621) is registered with ADEM as an electronic recycler. For details, call John-Paul (358-6749). Zoobilation 2013 6-10 p.m. Dance under the stars to live music at this annual fundraiser for the Montgomery Zoo. Enjoy delectable food and spirits from the region’s finest eateries. Bid the night away at the silent and live auctions. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Visit www. montgomeryzoo. com or call (334) 240-4900 for details. Millbrook Community Players Presents “Bell, Book and Candle” -- Through September 21 & September 26-28 at 7:30 p.m. & September 22 at 2 p.m. Gillian Holroyd casts a spell over an unattached publisher, partly to keep him away from a rival and partly because she is attracted to him. He falls head over heels in love with her at once, and wants to marry her. But witches, unfortunately, cannot fall in love, and this minute imperfection leads into a number of difficulties. Visit www.millbrooktheatre. com or call (334) 782-7317 for more info. Theatre AUM Presents “Paternity Leave” Through September 29 Show times are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $10 for the general public, $5 for senior citizens and students from other schools, and free to AUM students, faculty, staff and alumni with identification card. Theatre AUM is located in the Taylor Center at AUM, 7440 East Drive. Call 334-2443632 for more information.

2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 334.834.8990 www.fumcmontgomery.org

grass withers

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Join us for worship, fellowship, and service. Sunday Morning Worship 8:45 & 11 a.m. Worship Service at Cloverdale School Sunday at 6 p.m.

Saturday, September 21

Next Dimension Gymnastics Celebrates National Gymnastics Day Millbrook City Park, Main Street in Millbrook. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. “Turn the World Upside Down” in honor of National Gymnastics Day. Enjoy a cartwheel-a-thon, games, an obstacle course, dance and gymnastic exhibitions, silent auction, & arts and crafts for Millbrook area youth. Proceeds from this Gymnastic Fun Day will help Children’s Miracle Network and the Right to Play Foundation. For more information, please contact Lisa Johnson at (334) 221-4622 or Chelsie Johnson at (334) 669-3507. Prattville Gigantic Flea Market Doster Center. 6 a.m.-noon. Guns, weapons, tobacco & alcohol CANNOT be sold on the premises. Good News 5K and 1 Mile Run Color Party Benefiting Child Evangelism Fellowship of Central Alabama Young Meadows Presbyterian (located off Vaughn Road across from Blount Park). 5K starts at 8 a.m.; 1 mile starts at 9 a.m. Onsite registration from 6:30-7:30 a.m. Online registration $25 for 5K & 1 Mile Run with Color $10. Race Day $30 for 5K & $15 for 1 Mile Run. To register, visit cefcentralalabama.org.

Dr. R. Lawson Bryan Senior Minister

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Family Calendar T-shirts will be available to those who preregister. We will throw color in the one-mile run only. For more information, call (334) 213-7388. Alabama Nature Center General Public Weekend Also September 22 Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook. Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. 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. Call 285-4550 or visit www.alabamawildlife.org. Admission charged. French Colonial Weekend at Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park -- Through September 22 Wetumpka. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Visit www.forttoulouse.com

Sunday, September 22

Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to the Museum for this special FREE fun day, combining music, art and more! Join us for Jazz Jams and crazy pattern making with art. The Museum Exhibition connection is Winfred Rembert: Amazing Grace. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333 for details. Bark in the Park at Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park Wetumpka. Noon-4 p.m. Benefits Elmore County Humane Shelter. Visit www.elmorehumane.org or call (334) 567-3377.

September 2013

ARMSChair Concert Series Presents Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys 7 p.m., Kiwanis Park in Old Alabama Town. $2 charge. Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call (334) 240-4500.

Thursday, September 26

Newcomers Club Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. This month’s luncheon will feature a speaker talking about women’s self defense. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, September 23, to lyrad0980@yahoo.com or call 354-9797. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com Celestial Fireworks: MMFA Celebrates 25 Years in the Park Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts has been in Blount Cultural Park almost 25 years! Join us as we kick off the celebratory year with Celestial Fireworks, an evening of dinner and dancing by Cappy Thompson’s iconic window “Stars Falling on Alabama: We Are Enraptured by the Celestial Fireworks of the Muses.” Benefactor tickets are $250 per person and individual tickets are $125. For more info, call Jill Barry at (334) 240-4344 or jbarry@mmfa.org Faulkner Benefit Dinner with Bill O’Reilly 7 p.m. at the Montgomery Renaissance Convention Center. Proceeds from Faulkner University’s 2013 annual benefit dinner featuring

popular TV news host and best-selling author Bill O’Reilly help provide scholarships for students to make a college education at Faulkner even more affordable. General admission seating starts at $150 per person. A reception, which requires an additional admission ticket, will be held at 5:30 p.m. To order tickets or learn about sponsorship opportunities, call (334) 3867257 or visit www.faulkner.edu/oreilly. Wetumpka Depot Players present “Blithe Spirit” Through October 12 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2 p.m. matinee on October 6. Cantankerous novelist Charles Condomine plans a séance as research for his new book. He invites the eccentric Madame Arcati into his English country home, intending to expose her as a fraud. However, Arcati mistakenly summons his first wife, Elvira, back from the dead. Tickets are just $10 in advance and $12 at the door and online. Tickets may be reserved by calling the Depot at (334) 868-1440 or by visiting www.wetumpkadepot.com. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents “Wait Until Dark” Through October 6 A hit on Broadway and in London and a classic film starring Audrey Hepburn, this masterfully constructed thriller moves from one moment of suspense to another as it builds toward an electrifying, breath-stopping final scene that will leave you on the edge of your seat, or, in the Playhouse’s case, the edge of your pew. For tickets or more info, call 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org

Friday, September 27

Montgomery Ballet Presents “Ballet and the Beasts” 6-10 p.m. FREE performance at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Enjoy classics as

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well as original choreography. Feel free to bring lawn chairs, blankets, picnics and enjoy this performance under the stars. GATES open at 6 p.m., while performance will begin at dusk (approximately 7 p.m.). For more info, call (334) 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com.

Saturday, September 28

Titus Bluegrass Festival 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Titus Community Center, County Rd. 29. This family event features a schedule of continuous music by several bluegrass bands, arts and crafts booths and some of the best barbecue around. Grab your lawn chair and come on out! Children’s activities will be available. Admission is $5 for age 12 and over, and free to children. Proceeds will be used for the restoration and maintenance of the Community Center. For more info, e-mail titusbluegrassfestival@gmail.com. Pink and Pearls For Girls Hosts Career and Community Day 3-5 p.m. Gateway Baptist Church, 3300 Bell Road. This free event is for all ages of children and for all families. For more information, call Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091. 3rd Annual Little Miss River Region Pageant RiversEdge Church in Montgomery. The pageant is open to females, age 1 month to 17 years, with eight age categories. This is a year-long reign where the titleholders will attend events through the River Region. Applications are due by Friday, September 13. To learn more about the rules of the pageant, download the application and view the FAQ Sheet. Applications for the pageant and vendors may be found online at www.SterlingMiss.org or at the Bridal Boutique & Tux Shoppe (contestants registration), located at 127 W. Main Street in downtown Prattville, A Touch of Class Formals in Wetumpka and Brenda’s Formals in Clanton. For more information, visit the website or call 313-5444. Dream Field Farms Heroes Day Military personnel and first responders put their lives on the line daily. To honor the sacrifices these men and women make, Dream Field Farms will offer half-price admission to military families for our Annual Heroes Day. Just present your military or first responders ID at admissions. Call (334) 534-6976 or visit www. dreamfieldfarms.com

Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, Cupcakes by Tish will now host Cupcake Decorating Workshops. Classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356.5292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com. Old Alabama Town Presents River, Rails & Rights Walking Tour $5 charge. RSVP at (334) 240-4500.

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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.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms Of Adolescent Alcohol And Drug Abuse? • Sudden or Gradual Drop in Grades • Pattern of School Tardiness • Lying/Blaming • Unusual Need to Access Money • Changes in Peer Group • Sneaking Alcohol or Drugs • Burns on Hands or Clothing • Denial when concerns are expressed regarding drinking and drug use • Unusual sleeping patterns

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Free 24 hour Emergency Consultations

(334) 244-0702 or 1-800-873-2887 www.bradfordhealth.com Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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Tuesday, October 1

“Your Amazing Newborn” Class Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. $15 fee covers cost of mother and support person. 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 to attend for free. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/events.

Friday, October 4

3rd Annual AUM Nursing Dept. Golf Outing 8 a.m., Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Capitol Hill, Prattville. Hosted by Gregg Newschwander, dean of the Auburn and Auburn Montgomery Schools of Nursing and the Barbara S. Witt Professor of Nursing. Enjoy 18 holes of golf in a beautiful setting while supporting the schools’ joint graduate program, which prepares nurse educators and primary care nurse practitioners to serve the Southeast. Registration is $250 per person and includes cart, greens fee, continental breakfast, boxed lunch, and a gift bag. For more info on this event or to purchase tickets, contact Shelley Grider at (334) 2443032 or sgrider@aum.edu. 13th Annual Blue Jean Ball 5-11 p.m. Held at the Barnett Deck in front of Moore Hall on the AUM campus, activities will include live music, dancing, meet-and-greets with mascots Aubie and Curtiss, photo opportunities with birds of prey from Auburn’s Southeastern Raptor Center, a live auction emceed by special guests, a silent auction, tours of AUM’s School of Nursing and new Wellness Center, dinner catered by Dreamland Barbeque, and more. Tickets are $100 per person and table sponsorships are available. Net proceeds will support current programs and initiatives benefitting the schools’ students and faculty. For more info on this event or to purchase tickets, contact Shelley Grider at (334) 244-3032 or sgrider@aum.edu. Black Jacket Symphony Presents “Abbey Road” by The Beatles at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre 8 p.m. The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience by recreating classic albums in a live performance setting with a first class lighting and video production. A selected album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album. With no sonic detail being overlooked, the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album. Following the album and a brief intermission, the Black Jacket Symphony returns to the stage to perform a collection of greatest hits by the evening’s artist. Ticket prices begin at $29. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Alabama National Fair -- Through October 13 This year’s performers include Josh Turner, Ronnie Milsap, Foreigner and Anthony Hamilton. New attractions include Aussie Kingdom, the only traveling Australian animal show in the United States and Canada, and Swampmaster’s Gator Show. Visit www.alnationalfair.org Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents “Les Miserables” Through October 26 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30.

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Family Calendar Tickets are $25 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $20. Reservations must be paid in advance. Make reservations or for more information, call 3867190 or e-mail boxoffice@faulkner.edu. Tavern Fest at Old Alabama Town 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Celebrate history with live music, food & craft beer! Featuring the Goat Hill String Band.

Saturday, October 5

“All About Daylilies” Montgomery Group Hosting AHS Region 14 Fall Meeting. Memorial Presbyterian Church, 2130 Bell Road. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. Registration Fees: $25 for adults, $15 for youth and deadline is Tuesday, October 1. Make checks payable to: Montgomery Area Daylily Society. Information and registration form are at: http://www.ahsregion14.org/Upcoming_ Meetings.html. Hosted by the Montgomery Area Daylily Society. Guest speaker will be Bill Maryott, of Maryott’s Daylily Gardens in Freedom, Calif. Familyfriendly event! There will be door prizes, BBQ lunch, plant auction and more!

September 2013

Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@ jackson.org. Fan Day at Dream Field Farms The first 100 Facebook fans receive a free upgrade to a season pass! Yoga Classes at the Shoppes at EastChase Also October 12, 19 & 26 8:30-9:30 a.m. in the grassy area across from Genghis Grill. Registration starts at 8 a.m. and a portion of the proceeds will go to promote breast cancer awareness.

Tuesday, October 8

Homeschool Day at Dream Field Farms All the fun field trip events plus more available for homeschoolers. Homeschool parents admitted for $5 and homeschool children receive a free small pumpkin. Call (334) 534-6976 or visit www.dreamfieldfarms.com

Friday, October 11

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Gregg Allman 8 p.m. Gregg Allman is a rock and blues singer, keyboardist, guitarist and songwriter, and a founding

member of The Allman Brothers Band. He was inducted with the band into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 2006. His distinctive voice placed him in 70th place in the Rolling Stone list of the “100 Greatest Singers of All Time.” Ticket prices begin at $28. Visit www. mpaconline.org or call the MPAC Box Office at (334) 481-5100.

Friday, October 18

ARMSChair Concert Series presents Spike Graham Band: Tribute to Eric Clapton $2 in Kiwanis Park in Old Alabama Town.

Calendar information due by the 15th of each month. Send to editor@montgomeryparents.com.

Business Card Directory

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Montgomery Parents I September 2013

Call Call for for more more information information 3541 3541 McGehee McGehee Rd Rd Montgomery, Montgomery, AL AL 36111 36111 334-281-1032 334-281-1032 facebook.com/LooneysSuperSkate facebook.com/LooneysSuperSkate

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Are Your Customers WOMEN? So Are Our READERS! We Offer SMART ADVERTISING! Call Today, 213-7940

Home Based Business Directory Sonya Baxter-Martin Avon Independent Sales Representative

“Home is Where the Heart Is” Cleaning Services”

I can handle all your Avon needs. Offering a variety of skin products, clothes, shoes, fragrances and jewelry for men, women and children. Call me @ 334-300-4966 or visit my website @ www.youravon.com/sbaxter-martin.

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

Tutoring

Hood Virtual Assisting and Consulting

Tutoring for Students in Grades K-6th Mrs. Taylor (Current Teacher) 334-590-2098 hdtaylor101@charter.net

Williams Carpentry

Piano Teacher

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

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Saxon Lawn Service

You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing

Lose Weight Now, Ask Me How!

Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training

www.cari.tsfl.com or (334) 294-2007 or meladwellness@gmail.com. Learn how to keep it off!

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!

Spend more time on revenue generating tasks! Can’t afford to hire an employee? Only pay for the work and time needed. Services Offered: Call forwarding, receive and pay bills, send cards and gifts, make and return phone calls, and more. E-mail info@hoodconsult.org or call 1-866-239-7686 like us on Facebook at Hood Virtual Assisting & Consulting.

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

Would you like to feel better, have more energy and be healthy? Below is the contact info for the simple and effective weight-loss program: Take Shape for Life.

Lucky Lawns

Specializing in Diaper Cakes, Invitations, Birth Announcements, Baby Shower Planning, and More! Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/thebabyboom or email us at thebabyboom@ live.com.

Please call 274-0324

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

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

Johni Lions Bookkeeping Services

850/527-0495 johnilions@gmail.com Located in Prattville We Sit And Stay While Your Away....

Whether you need us to watch your four-legged kids for the day, week, or month, we are available 24/7. Access To Both Maxwell And Gunter AFB; 10% Military Discount. Call Lori @ 407-403-0713 For Pricing.

Need your clothing washed or pressed? Call Ledonia Williams at (334) 395-8345. Thirty-One Gifts Independent Consultant

Thirty-one offers a wonderful variety of unique handbags, totes, travel bags and storage solutions, which can be Monogrammed for that personal touch. Gretchen Perry (251)680-0703 gretchenmlperry@gmail.com

Ala

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Chemistry Tutor

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

Advanced Placement Chemistry Honors Chemistry General Chemistry

Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

Southern Quality Lawns, LLC

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

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

The Mentor

Workshops for nursing students or new nurse graduates. Call 361-2808 or email Cassandra at nursecam41@yahoo.com

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.

Montgomery Parents I September 2013

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

A Great Start Learning Academy, 84

First Baptist Montgomery, 4

New Park, 55

Adventure Sports II, 88

First UMC, Montgomery, 87

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 27

Alabama Army National Guard, 91

First UMC, Prattville, 71

Paradise Pumpkin Patch, 18

Alabama Christian Academy, 17

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 39

P’zazz Art Studio, 44

Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front, 13

Grand Old Pumpkin Patch, 2

Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters, 93

Alabama River Region Ballet, 11

Healthscan, 65

Pediatric Cardiology, 44

Arts in Motion, 31

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 29

Piano Instructor-Skye Jenkins, 93

ASKIN/Synergy House, 93

Hooper Academy, 46

Pioneer Museum of Alabama, 21

AUM Continuing Education, 49

Huntington Learning Center, 39

Playtime, Inc., 93

Auditory/Visual Enhancement, 62

Kids Carousel, 41

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Autism Society of Alabama, 59

Kindercare, 85

Pump It Up Party, 81

Baptist Health, 51

Kingry Orthodontics, 83

River Region Prayer Walk, 48

Born to Dance Studio, 92

Kreative Moments, 93

Riverview Camp, 20

Bradford Health Services, 90

Kumon, 9

Rolling Video Games of AL, 89

Bradley’s Events and Decor, 45

Learning Tree Child Care, 34

Ross Christian Academy, 23

Camp ASCCA, 60

Legacy Early Learning Center, 40

Saint James School, 21

Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 14

Lesyn’s Handbags, 92

Saint James UMC, Inside Back Cover

Centre for Performing Arts, 27

Looney’s Super Skate, 92

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 28

Chapman Orthodontics, 81

Lori Mercer Photography, 63

Smiles Galore Parties, 23

CHARMS, Inc., 64

Macon East Academy, 43

Spacewalk of Montgomery, 66

Child Evangelism Fellowship 5K, 53

Mathnasium, 47

Spacewalker, The, 45

Children’s Clothing Exchange, 89

Maya’s Dance & Fitness, 41

Spotless Cleaning Services, 8

Children’s of Alabama, 61

Mistletoe Market, 75

Success Unlimited Academy, 33

Churchill Academy, 67

Mom’s Flea Market & Consignment, 65

Sylvan Learning Center, 63

Dancewear, Etc., 92

Montessori @ Hampstead, 42

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 88

Dentistry for Children, 84

Montessori @ Mulberry, 3

The Big Green Bus, 48

Doodlebugs, 71

Montessori Academy, 69

The Little Language, 36

Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 24

Montgomery Ballet, 36

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 53

Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center, 59

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 93

Dreamfield Farms, 24

Montgomery Humane Society, 68

Trinity Presbyterian School, 15

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 86

Montgomery Multiples Club, 46

United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 47

Eastdale Mall, 1

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 83

Vaughn Park Church Upward Sports, 66

Easter Seals, 60

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 31

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 26

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 86

Montgomery Taekwondo, 93

Vaughn Road Preschool, 74

Embellish, 42

Montgomery Zoo, 37

Vishnu Dental, 64

Evangel Christian Academy, 25

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 93

Wonder World, 73

Families of the Year Awards, 77

My Kids Attic, Consignment Sale, 35

Yeargan Farms Pumpkin Patch, 32

Family Karate Center, 7

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes at, 19

Zackery Burr, Attorney, 57

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Mortal Instruments City of Bones

Paranoia MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: C Sexual Content: C Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Paranoia PG-13 for some sexuality, violence and language. Adam Cassidy (Liam Hemsworth) is a 27-year-old cubicle worker at Wyatt Enterprises, one of the top tech companies in the world. When a pitch he has been planning fails to gain the attention of the company’s boss, he and four of his friends (Lucas Till, Angela Sarafyan, William Peltz, Haley Finnegan) are fired. After a night of clubbing and drinks on the company’s credit card account, Adam is summoned to the president’s office -- but not for the reason he believes. Nicholas Wyatt (Garry Oldman) has one thing on his mind: the destruction of his rival Jock Goddard (Harrison Ford). Once partners, the two men split ways and have since been determined to take the other one down. Adam is given the option of serving prison time or becoming part of Nick’s plot. Prepped and preened for a position at Jock’s company Eikon, Adam is promised substantial financial remuneration if he steals company secrets and returns them to Nick. It is an offer Adam can hardly refuse, especially because he is responsible for his father’s medical bills. To pull off the infiltration, the young man is pulled out of his row house on the wrong side of town and set up in an expensive New York apartment with a high-end car. As part of a demographic that feels ripped off by the fraudulent financial antics of their parents’ generation, Adam has no reserves about repeating the same deceitful practices if it nets him a hefty income. The problem with his attitude is it’s hard to distinguish who’s good and who’s bad in the screenplay. Without a recognizable antagonist, everyone soon becomes suspects in this cat and mouse game. And audiences are left with no clear character to root for. Meanwhile Adam takes advantage of his new lifestyle to attract the attention of Emma Jennings (Amber Heard), a co-worker in charge of rolling out one of Jock’s latest inventions. Only too late does Adam realize he is merely a disposable pawn in the rivals’ high stakes game of corporate espionage. While the script contains a strong sexual expletive and infrequent profanities, corporate crime leads to some bloody murders used to silence informers. As well, Adam may jokingly talk about sleeping his way up the corporate ladder but in reality he appears to be doing just that. A sensual scene of kissing and undressing leads to a morning after in bed together. However this repeated consensual act also serves a purpose when Adam uses it to gain valuable insider information. Greed, entitlement and revenge are at the heart of Paranoia. Yet the blind ambition that drives these desires still pays off for many of the characters by the end of the film. Unfortunately, that positive reinforcement may set up a whole new generation to buy into the same avarices that fueled the felonies committed by their predecessors.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: CSexual Content: B Language: B Alcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones PG-13 for intense sequences of fantasy violence and action, and some suggestive content. Clary Fray (Lily Collins) finds out she is more than a mere human when she begins to spontaneously draw the same mysterious pattern over and over again. Then she starts seeing things her friend Simon (Robert Sheehan) can’t see: Things like a man being murdered in the middle of a crowded nightclub. Only after being whisked away by a hooded character to a castle-like edifice hidden in the middle of downtown New York City does she discover she is the descendent of Shadowhunters -- half human, half angel. Like so many heroines in this genre, the fate of the world rests on her dainty shoulders. However, thanks to a magic spell of sorts, she can’t remember much about her past. And what she does remember isn’t true. (For instance that picture of the US soldier killed in the Iraqi war is not really her dad.) Unfortunately the only way to unlock her memories is to visit the warlock (Godfrey Gao) who cast the incantation upon her in the first place. To attract his attention she has to dress like a whore -her words not mine. The story, based on a series of novels by Cassandra Clare and pegged as the possible next Twilight successor, certainly has all the elements to appeal to its targeted demographic, including a love triangle with Clary at the center. Yet the film suffers from many of the same problems as Twilight. First of all the script and acting are unremarkable at best. And it’s no surprise that Clary is willing to dump steady, thoughtful Simon in favor of the more dangerous and sexy Jace (Jamie Campbell Bower) who charms her with his stash of weapons and messy blonde locks. While that plot isn’t new (it’s been around even before Sandy Olsen exchanged pink frills for black leather in order to attract Danny Zuko in Grease), it’s one that makes romance look more like a game of roulette. Meanwhile, the violence in this film consists of negligible blood, but we still see characters impaled, stabbed, cut with knives and brutally beaten. Seemingly normal humans also metamorphose into horrific beasts and monsters that slash and gash their way across the screen. As well there are scenes depicting an apparent suicide, self-mutilation and brief sexual innuendo. Forced to look for a hidden goblet that will help restore balance (and provide plenty of storyline for the next movie), Clary is warned to trust no one, even those closest to her. Although the thrill of being anything but mundane (the film’s label for humans) might make Clary feel heady for a while, the advice leaves her with no one to turn to in a place where demons and death wait around every corner. And that’s a message that can make the world look like a big, bad place -- even to a teen with super powers.

What Parents need to know about Paranoia...

Violence: White-collar crime, insider trading and corporate espionage are all depicted in this film. These seemingly victimless crimes result in murders. Photos of dead and injured victims are seen. A car intentionally runs down a character. Another character is threatened with a gun. Characters chase down a man in an attempt to kill him. Cars drive recklessly through busy streets. Sexual Content: Sexual innuendo including lewd looks, crude comments and slang terms for sex are used. A couple kisses passionately while undressing and later they are seen in bed together. Several morning-after scenes are shown. Brief back and shoulder nudity are shown, sometimes in a non-sexual context. Language: The script contains one strong sexual expletive, a handful of scatological slang terms and some other profanities, along with brief crude sexual dialogue. Alcohol / Drug Use: A group of fired employees drink excessively at a nightclub on the company’s credit card. Two young men walk down the street drinking from bottles inside brown paper bags. Some cigarette and cigar smoking is portrayed. Characters drink socially and are offered drinks at the office. Montgomery Parents I September 2013

What Parents need to know about The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones...

Violence: Characters are beaten, impaled, whipped, slashed with knives and swords, thrown around the room, and bitten. A character has a knife held to his throat. A character appears to commit suicide. A character is hit over the head with a fire extinguisher. Characters discuss drinking blood. Sexual Content: A character dresses provocatively and comments on looking like a whore. A couple kisses passionately. Characters make brief sexually suggestive and homosexual comments. Language: The script contains limited mild profanities, some terms of Deity and brief sexual innuendo. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character drinks a liquid during an apparent suicide. Another character is given poison in a drink at a bar.

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