Montgomery Parents July 2013 by KeepSharing

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Contents July 2013

Volume 18 Number 7

Features 52

How to Pay Less for a College Education

Simple Celebrations From A-Z

2013 Birthday Party Planner

Stop the Mom Bullying

If paying for college is a big concern for your family, you’ll be glad to discover there are options to help in this expensive venture.

Your child’s birthday party doesn’t have to be a strain on the budget or your sanity. Check out these creative and easy ideas!

Columns

6 From One Parent to Another DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Our local listing of all things “birthday” will help you plan that special occasion for your child.

Moms are often the worst critics of other moms and their parenting styles. Learn how to cope with criticism and avoid offering opinions when you can.

12 Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Bicycle Helmets Did you know that it is law in Alabama for children aged 15 and under to wear a helmet while riding a bike? Do you enforce this law at home? According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, universal bicycle helmet use by children aged 4-15 years would prevent 39,000-45,000 head injuries and 18,00055,000 scalp and face injuries annually in Alabama alone. It is recommended that you purchase a new helmet for your child. All helmets made after March 1999 should comply with the safety standards of the Consumer Products Safety Commission and be labeled as such. Used helmets may be older and not meet the current safety standards or they may have been in a prior bicycle crash. New helmets can be found in many discount, toy and athletic stores. Most properly fitted helmets will fit for a few years before needing to be replaced. If your child is in a bicycle accident, replace the helmet as it may have been damaged and might not provide appropriate protection in another crash. There are different types of helmets. The majority are hard shelled, but there are also soft shelled varieties that meet the safety standards. There is no consensus on whether one is superior to the other. It is not recommended to use helmets for bike

riding that are designated for other activities. Bicycle helmets are very protective in head first falls at fairly high speeds, and other helmets may not offer the same degree of protection. Multi-sport helmets that have been labeled to meet the CPSC standards for bicycle helmets are also safe to use. There are bike helmets available for infants. Most come in the soft shelled variety. However, due to their weak neck structure, it is not recommended that infants under a year wear helmets or travel on any kind of bicycle. Take your child with you when getting a bicycle helmet. Your child will enjoy picking out the perfect princess or superhero helmet and will take pride in wearing it instead of putting up a fuss. If you prefer a more plain helmet, allow your child to customize the outside with some favorite stickers! When your child is present while purchasing a helmet, you can ensure a proper fit. According to SAFEKIDS, there are three easy steps to fitting a bicycle helmet. The first step is EYES. When the helmet is placed on the head, there should be no more than two finger widths between the eyebrows and the bottom of the helmet, and the child should be able to look up and see the bottom of the helmet. Second, is EARS. When you put the bike

helmet on, the straps should make a Y around the ears. Last, is MOUTH. When the helmet strap is buckled under the chin, the child should be able to open and close his mouth comfortably. The helmet should be snug and secure and not wiggle around on your child’s head. When I ask about bicycle helmet use at check ups, I am often met with a reply of “he has one, but he doesn’t wear it” with a look of blame towards the child. Remember who is the parent and who makes the rules! And remember, you have the state law to back you up here. Make it a house rule that in order to have the privilege to own and ride a bike, the helmet is a requirement. If you see your child out riding his bike without his helmet, take the bike away. Your child will quickly realize the helmet is a necessity, not a choice! Dr. Karen Doles is a board certified pediatrician practicing at Professional Pediatrics in Montgomery, Alabama. She completed her medical degree at the University of Tennessee in Memphis, and her residency at State University of New York in Buffalo. She lives in Montgomery with her husband and active 3 year old son.

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

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When my boys were in school, summer was my favorite time of the year. It was a personal challenge to find ways to spend time with them, have fun, and continue their learning – without them realizing they were still “in school” even at home. As they grew older, that task became more of a challenge, but worth the effort. As we drove, we kept a running count of all the red cars we could see. The boys were very competitive so we would see which one could spot the most. As they grew older we read billboards and signs and figured gas mileage. At the store I would asked the children how much each item was (X) if they

were marked (Y) items for (Z) dollars. We worked out how much tax we would have to add to our purchases and talked about why we pay taxes. We figured how many ounces are in a quart or a gallon, discussed why cereal boxes have cartoon characters, and talked about how businesses must charge more than what they pay for the goods they sell. My boys received lessons in basic math, algebra, marketing, government and economics all rolled into one trip to the grocery store. It was a game for them. It kept them from being bored and allowed me to get my shopping done. History is alive in Montgomery and it is important that we show our children both the good and bad side of it. While children take field trips in school, family outings are a wonderful time to express your own feelings and to add family stories about our history. Take your children to a library and challenge them to read a book each week.

There are numerous sources for summer reading lists for students of all grade levels online and at the library. Trips to any of the area museums, the planetarium, the zoo, a park all offer wonderful opportunities for parents to teach children some of the practical applications of things they learn in the classroom. It brings learning to life. More importantly, it provides us with another opportunity to connect to our children. Benjamin Franklin said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” Summer is the perfect time to involve your children in the learning process. 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 Parents I July 2013

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Trinity Welcomes Home Author Curtis Sikes

Catholic Students Nominated As Volunteers of the Year

Two Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School students were honored as nominees at the Hands On River Region Volunteer of the Year Awards Ceremony held on April 25. MCPS Student Council and Student Government officers represented the student body as they were nominated for volunteer youth group of the year. Daniel Lobello and Andrea Hayes were nominated as individuals for their extraordinary volunteerism in the River Region. Shown are MCPS High School SGA President Shelby Taff, eleventh-grade nominees Daniel Lobello and Andrea Hayes, Holy Spirit Campus Student Council President Thomas McLaughlin and Mayor Todd Strange.

STJ First-Grader Takes Accelerated Math Class

Alexandria Clenny, a Saint James School first-grader, has been accepted into the Gifted Youth Program at Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development Education Program. Clenny is taking an accelerated math course through multimedia lectures over the internet, beginning in June. The six-year-old’s instructor is a faculty member at Stanford University. In the qualifying test for the coursework, Clenny scored in the top 5 percent of all students, worldwide. www.montgomeryparents.com

Trinity Presbyterian School’s family and friends welcomed home one of their own on April 11 with a coffee and book signing for former Trinity student Curtis Sikes, author of The Heart of a King. Sikes attended Trinity from 1992 to 1997, during fourth through ninth grades. He credits one of his favorite Trinity Lower School teachers for his becoming a writer. In 2012 he published his first children’s book, The Heart of a King, dedicating it to the loving memory of Mrs. Linda Shands. Currently, Sikes is serving as a Middle School language arts teacher at Covenant Christian School in Sylva, North Carolina. Sikes visited with alums and former Trinity teachers. He spoke with Trinity’s fifth- and sixth-grade language arts classes. “They had some really good questions and suggestions for future projects,” he said. “I really enjoyed sharing with the students and hopefully inspired a few of them to write books someday.” Sikes is pictured with his book next to a plaque erected in Mrs. Shands’ honor in the Trinity hallway across from the Middle/Upper School Library.

Bear Green Team Visits Sanitary Landfill

The Bear Exploration Green Team took a field trip to the North Montgomery Sanitary Landfill in April. The students learned how everything they throw away ends up at the landfill. The city does a great job of making sure the landfill is safe and clean, and workers try to recycle many of the materials that come to the site. That was a relief to this group of students who has learned all year about reducing, reusing and recycling. The Green Team consists of fifth-graders at Bear and meets after school once a month. Members include Cole Dulaney, Logan Dulaney, Jesse Custard, Skylar Essex, Kade Etheridge, Anna Frost, Ashley Hayes, Connor Hibbard, Joe Higgins, Grace Hogan, Logan Horne, Andre Howard, Kaylah Kerr, Nick Marshall, Mary Kate Pattee, Michael Rossi, John Richard Talley, Luke Truslow and Ian Wright.

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Montessori @ Hampstead Kicks Off Summer Program Montessori at Hampstead recently held its end of the year picnic. Kids of all ages enjoyed a beautiful day and yummy food provided by Earth Fare. The theme for the school’s summer program is “Summer of Exploration” and a great way to kick off the summer was to explore the Big Red Fire Truck. The students loved climbing in the truck and seeing firsthand what a fire truck is really like. They actually learned how fire trucks operate and put out fires. What a “sure-fire” way to get the kids excited about learning! 16

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Churchill Celebrates End of Successful School Year

Montgomery HIPPY Offers Summer Class

Montgomery Public Schools HIPPY student Keldrick Robinson, 3, is learning how to use the computer to identify objects that are the color red during a summer class at the HIPPY building at Fairwest Place. Robinson is enrolled in the Tulane Garden HIPPY program and is mastering this interactive pre-k activity.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Churchill Academy hosted an open house for parents of potential students. Teachers, parents of current students, and students themselves presented information about the school. Visitors developed a better understanding of the school’s mission and the real diversity of its student body. High school seniors Allie Wilhite, Nickie Potock and Gary Backus and previous graduate Cameron Murphy talked about the ways staff and teachers mentored them, and the ways they supported each other. Churchill’s lower school students celebrated the end of the year in a number of ways. Many students attended a fun-filled day at YMCA’s Camp Chandler, learning about nature and safety. Everyone had a ball at water day, splashing down the slide and throwing balloons at each other. Lower school students also attended closing day ceremonies, where several eighth-graders graduated to become freshmen in our upper school next year. As always, high school graduation was an emotional event. Churchill’s seniors are planning to attend a variety of colleges and trade schools with intentions to become doctors, chefs, and more. Senior Nickie Potock is shown with school director Lisa Schroeder at graduation.

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Holy Cross Sixth-Graders Visit Dauphin Island

Holy Cross Episcopal School sixth-graders spent two nights at the Dauphin Island Sea lab this spring. Under the instruction of marine science instructor Hazel Wilson, students were able to spend a day in the marsh collecting everything from anchovies to shrimp. They were taught how to catch these species with large nets. They participated in a plankton sea lab and beach walk, enjoying the chance to touch sting rays and dissect squid. Science teacher Connie MacDonald was shocked at how every student jumped right into the dissection lab. “Not a single student had any reservations during the dissection,” MacDonald said. Students were also given some down time at night to walk on the beach and play basketball and beach volleyball. “It was a great trip to end the year with,” teacher Amber Wright said. Wright said she had two favorite moments during the trip. The first was when students volunteered to pick up trash on the beach, collecting two big bags full of trash, and the other was a worship service the students came up with on their own. “Mrs. MacDonald and I have watched these kids mature a great deal this year, and they will definitely be missed as they graduate from Holy Cross,” Wright said.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Pike Road Appoints First School Board

The Pike Road Town Council appointed the first-ever Pike Road School Board May 28, and the board recently met to elect officers. The school anticipates opening the doors in fall 2015. For more information on the Pike Road School Board, please contact Mayor Gordon Stone or Mary Catherine Barganier at (334) 272-9883. Seated from left are Ray Hawthorne (president) and Cacyce Davis. Standing from left are Tommy Ratliff, Linda Ware (vice president) and Morgan Simpson.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Holy Spirit Student Awarded First Brienza Scholarship

STJ’S Duncan Named Wrestling Coach of the Year

The National Wrestling Coaches Association has selected Saint James School Coach Craig Duncan as Alabama’s 2013 Wrestling Coach of the Year. Duncan’s 4A Trojans are the 2013 1-4A State Wrestling Champions, marking the first wrestling title in the school’s history, and the first state championship in that sport won by a Montgomery school since 1992.

Gabriel McBeal, a sixth-grade student at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Holy Spirit Campus, was awarded the Richard and Barabara Brienza Scholarship from Jason Nguyen, Grand Knight, Knights of Columbus Council #12150. This is the first scholarship award granted to a student at the new MCPS elementary campus at Holy Spirit. The Knights of Columbus are dedicated to promoting Catholic education and this scholarship will help students continue their education at MCPS in Middle School. McBeal was chosen by the Knights of Columbus to receive this award because of his academic efforts and his involvement with the school, his community and his home. McBeal received the scholarship at the MCPS honors assembly held on May 24 in the Holy Spirit Church Parish Hall. He was also the recipient of the “Best Woodwind” award for the MCPS Beginning Band. During the 2012-13 school year, he served as the treasurer for the Montgomery Catholic Student Council Holy Spirit Campus and was also a member of the MCPS Science Olympiad. Gabriel is the son of Mitch and Evangelene McBeal of Montgomery and the grandson of Hazel Hughes.

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

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Evangel’s 2013 Seniors Graduate

Evangel Christian Academy’s graduation ceremony was held on May 24. Parents, faculty and friends gathered together to mark this milestone in the students’ lives. Michael Rippy, senior pastor of Evangel Church and president of ECA, addressed the students and their guests. The valedictorian for the graduating class was Emily Berg and the salutatorian was Emily Cosgrove. During the ceremony, a video presentation was shown highlighting each graduate’s life starting with baby pictures and ending with their graduation portrait. After the video, the graduates presented yellow roses to their parents. Then a reception was held in the students’ honor. The students were excited to celebrate the closing of this chapter of their lives and look forward to the future.

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ACA Talent Show Raises Funds for Chorus

This year’s talent show displayed the talents of many gifted students at Alabama Christian Academy. The show is an annual fundraiser to benefit the ACA chorus. This year’s winners were seniors Luke Morris, West Churchwell, and Gage Jarrett with their performance of “Wagon Wheel.” The ACA chorus was able to raise more than $1200 through this event. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Bethany Christian Holds ‘Operation Occupation’

MEA Students Learn at Lanark

Macon East Academy first-graders enjoyed a day outside at the Alabama Nature Center at Lanark. Students went on a guided hike and learned about all kinds of nature and wildlife. They saw several of the plants they had been learning about in science, investigated owl pellets and built a bird’s nest. Students also enjoyed fishing with cane poles in the catfish pond. Jameson Byrom displayed his catch of the day.

Bethany Christian Academy students explored employment possibilities during “Operation Occupation,” a weeklong celebration of career awareness. This special week was filled with presentations by guest speakers, skill demonstrations, workplace role playing and even some vocal solos. BCA Eagles were blessed with opportunities to listen to and interview community participants representing a wide range of careers. The special guests included Montgomery Police Department’s Officer Dustin Smith, counselor/educator Cecil White, A.S.U.’s theater professor and vocal talent Brian Martin, attorney Vonda Bonham, businessman Bob Belcher, Montgomery Public School educator/curriculum specialist Aleysia Alves, Tuskegee University’s Director of Teaching and Learning Dr. Sydney Freeman, respiratory therapist Michael L. Chapple, A.D.C’s retiree Carolyn Golson, medical lab technician Kimberly Thomas, ADECA energy specialist Liz Cochran, public health specialist Lynda Freeman, Johnson Karate Academy owner and instructor David Johnson, and Bethany SDA Church Pastor J.L. Watson. Additional speakers who visited prior to “Operation Occupation” were Dr. Cecile Walker, OBGYN, Pilot Danny Coone, celebrated author and artist Dr. Synthia Saint James, attorney Sam Walker, Dr. William Abernathy and members of the Montgomery Sanitation Department. After a week of career spotlights and infectious inspiration, BCA students culminated the week with “A Parade of Careers!” Students dressed for jobs as nurses, scientists, doctors, judges, teachers, athletes, lawyers, architects, models, fashion designers, police officers, firefighters and pilots paraded in front of their school sharing posters bearing their future dreams with impressed motorists.

Academy Lower School Students Study Creek Indians

Montessori at Mulberry Enjoys Summertime Fun

Remember your childhood summer vacation time? The children at Montessori at Mulberry are relishing this childhood rite of passage! Bubbles overflowing, various containers for experimenting with water, and joyous moments of friendship abound on our “Swim Days.” Call (334) 265-7733 to find out more about our program and our unique, home-like campus, community and staff. Shown, Mai enjoys going down the slide and splashing into the pool! www.montgomeryparents.com

For a week this spring, the fourth-grade class at The Montgomery Academy had the unique opportunity to spend part of their day learning about the Indian culture from Butch Fuller, a Creek Indian. A charismatic storyteller, Fuller used a replication of a Native American hunting camp to captivate the students with every lesson. His presentations centered on the daily life of Creek children and showed students a progression of items authentic to what may have existed on the front lawn of the school during the 18th Century. Students were enthralled with everything Fuller had to share, especially his demonstrations on hunting techniques including how to prepare and fire a rifle and to use a blowgun. In his presentation, Fuller noted many advances, including the use of flint and steel to create fire, which Creek Indians made as a result of European influence. 22

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Lee ROTC Color Guard Volunteers at Rehab Center

Service is an important part of the leadership and military training that cadets receive as part of the Robert E. Lee High Air Force JROTC. This summer, members of the Air Force JROTC Sabre Team and Color Guard at Robert E. Lee High School volunteered at the annual Miss Capitol Hill beauty pageant for residents at the Capitol Hill Rehabilitation Center. Air Force JROTC Cadet Lojay Daniels escorted Mrs. Ann Pope, who was crowned Mrs. Capitol Hill 2013.

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

CELEBRATING 13 YEARS OF SUCCESS!

ECA First-Graders Raise Butterflies

Evangel Christian Academy’s first-grade class recently enjoyed raising butterflies. The students received several butterfly eggs and then watched as the tiny caterpillars hatched. They nurtured the small creatures as each one formed a chrysalis. The children were amazed when the beautiful butterflies began to emerge. After watching the life cycle of the butterfly unfold before their eyes, the students released the insects into the wild.

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Eastwood Seniors Take Trip to Europe

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Richard Weaver’s classic is titled, “Ideas Have Consequences,” and travel reinforces this truth. Eastwood Christian School led a senior trip to Rome, Paris, Normandy, London and Cambridge to see the consequences of the ideas that built Western Civilization. Shown are chaperones Leigh Morrison, David Miller and Cindy Peavy; students Anna Grace Schlemmer, Erin Williamson, Beth Minney, LeighEllen Morrison, Lauren Gaines and Michael Ann Peavy; and Headmaster John Geiger.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Meteorologist Visits Trinity Second-Graders

Trinity Presbyterian School secondgraders completed their science unit of study on weather with a visit from Ashley McDonald, meteorologist for WAKA and WCOV. Students were able to learn first-hand from a meteorologist about forecasting the weather, preparedness for severe weather, and many other topics. McDonald was accompanied by Lindsey Cope, promotions director for WCOV, who produces commercials. She is also the mother of second-grader Dalen Cope. From left are Lindsey Cope, Trinity second-grader Dalen Cope, and WAKA meteorologist Ashley McDonald.

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Lighthouse Honors Staff Member’s Retirement

The preschool at Lighthouse Christian Academy joined the entire school in a special chapel service. The school made a special day for Mrs. Sibert, who has worked at the school for many years and is retiring this summer. The children made cards, and the school honored her with several different presentations. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Montgomery Catholic Softball Advances to State

The Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School softball team advanced to the state tournament held at Lagoon Park May 17-18. The Knights had their backs against the wall on May 11 at the Regional Tournament held in Gulf Shores. The Knights had to win three games after a two-hour rain delay and each game was an elimination game. After defeating Slocomb 5-3 on a one-hitter by Sydney O’Connor, the Knights fell to Straughn 8-5 to fall into the losers’ bracket for Saturday action. Following a two-hour rain delay, the Knights made short work of T.R. Miller 15-0 in four innings to advance to within two games of a state tournament berth. The first game, a 1-0 victory over Geneva, was a pitchers’ dual from the outset. However, it was one swing of the bat by Lauren Walker in the top of the seventh inning that gave Montgomery Catholic the victory and sent them into a winner-take-all match-up with Opp. Just 20 minutes after leaving the field against Geneva, the Knights took the field against Opp and played a 12-inning affair scoring two runs in the top of the 12th inning to take the victory and earn the berth in the tournament. Montgomery Catholic’s Varsity Softball team is coached by Coach Britt Taylor and Assistant Coach Abbey Beesley. The 2013 team is Ali Harper, Lauren Walker, Jessie Clark, Ansley Taylor, Agnes Armstrong, Kristianna Davison, McKinlee Houghland, Callie Wilkinson, Kirstin Wood, Sydney O’Connor, Hadley Taylor and Alex Jolley.

Macon East Students Enjoy Reading Together

Macon East Academy second-graders enjoyed reading The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling together in class. The book is about a boy, John Midas, who loves eating chocolate more than anything in the world. After eating a mysterious piece of chocolate, everything he puts in his mouth turns to chocolate. The students created posters depicting their favorite character in the book. Austin Gorman displays her poster.

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Holy Cross Sixth-Graders Perform ‘The Tempest’

SUA Students Create Solar System Projects

Third- and fourth-grade students at Success Unlimited Academy used their creativity when science teacher Cathy Brown assigned a solar system project to culminate their science unit. Fourth-grader Jose Chavez used many different materials, including Styrofoam, wood, paint, and Lemonhead candy! When creating the sun, Chavez hot glued more than 100 Lemonheads on a Styrofoam ball. Not only did the project smell yummy, it was interesting! Wes Steward, shown, also a fourthgrader, chose to make a mobile of the planets using Styrofoam balls. As a final part of the project, he submitted a written report on the solar system. Third-grader Caroline Moody created an entire solar system from melting glass beads. Her hanging solar system was a beautiful creation that was shared with her classmates during the last week of school.

Macon East Holds Talent Show

Macon East Academy lower school presented its third Annual Talent show on April 30. Thirty-five students participated. Lower school students and parents were entertained as they watched dance routines, baton twirling, gymnastics, instrumentalists, dramatic skits, comedians and vocalists. Macon East Academy students showcased their abilities and demonstrated that MEA has talent! www.montgomeryparents.com

Sixth-graders at Holy Cross had been working on their production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest since early February. Alabama Shakespeare Festival actors David Umansky and Chris Pappas adapted the Shakespeare For Kids version to use with the students. Pappas and Umansky worked with students one day a week and put together a performance that will never be forgotten. The original venue was set for the Gardens at ASF, but due to a rainy Saturday morning, it was moved to the chapel on the Holy Cross campus. “We were all a little bummed that the play could not be at ASF,” said sixth-grade teacher Amber Wright. “However, in the end it all worked out beautifully. I would not have changed a thing.” The play drew in a large crowd leaving only standing room in the chapel. Each student’s talents shone, and they received a welldeserved standing ovation at the end of the play. “I’ve never been a prouder teacher than I was at the end of that performance,” Wright said.

Academy Students Receive State Recognition in Duke TIP

This year, ten Montgomery Academy seventh-grade students qualified to receive state recognition at the 32nd annual Duke University Talent Identification Program (TIP). Those who qualified for state recognition were Maddie Brazil, Ryan Ford, Kelsey Grant, Stephen Guerrero, Kate Harris, Lauren Muller, Parker Norris, Claire Phillips, Jason Strickland and Katherine Walcott. They were invited to attend the State Recognition Ceremony at the University of Alabama on May 19. The Duke University Talent Identification Program serves 16 states of the Southeast and is committed to identifying and serving academically talented young people, providing students with information about their abilities, academic options and resources, as well as sponsoring challenging educational programs. Seventh-graders are invited to participate in the preliminary SAT or ACT if they score at the 95th percentile or above in one of the following areas on the ERB: verbal ability, reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, mathematics, writing mechanics or writing concepts and skills. Students can also qualify with other approved standardized test scores. Students took either the SAT or the ACT during December 2012 or during January or February 2013. All of the students who received state honors qualified with the SAT. 26

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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STJ Announces Two Administrative Changes

James Robert Copeland, a 16-year veteran educator, has been named Saint James middle school principal, replacing Cathy Pearson, the school’s new Dean of Admissions. Copeland will assume his new duties beginning July 1. “J. B. Copeland is no stranger to Saint James School, having previously taught in both STJ’s middle and high school,” said Head of School Melba Richardson. “He brings a variety of valuable skills to his new position, ensuring our middle school remains exceptional. Mr. Copeland is passionate about securing a safe, nurturing, but academically challenging environment for our adolescents and will do a splendid job in working with them, their parents, and the STJ faculty. We are delighted to welcome him aboard.” Copeland, top right, received his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia and his Master’s degree from Sanford University in Birmingham. He previously taught at Saint James School, from 1997-2005, serving as a math instructor and varsity basketball coach. He is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), as well as the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), and the Institute for Classical Schools. Copeland is married to Leigh Copeland, Saint James School’s information technology director. They have two children who will enter Saint James Leu Elementary and Saint James Middle School in the fall. A 1976 STJ alumnus, Pearson, bottom right, has served as a math teacher and middle school counselor, in addition to her principal position within the middle school. Her professional association with Saint James School spans a 28-year period, beginning in 1985. “I am so excited about working with Director of Admissions Aimee Steineker and her terrific team to tell potential families about the quality, benefits, and value of a Saint James School education.” Pearson said. “I’ve been a student and taught here, I’ve counseled students, and I’ve also been a part of the administrative team. Those experiences give me a unique, first-hand perspective from which to share information about the superior education our students receive. The innovation, creativity and engagement taking place in our classrooms on a daily level is inspiring.” Pearson completed her undergraduate studies at the University of South Alabama, where she was president of Kappa Delta sorority. She received her Master’s degree from Troy University (Montgomery) in Counseling and Human Development, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Pearson is a recipient of the Teams that Make a Difference Award from the National Middle School Association, and has received the Alabama Association of Independent Schools (AAIS) Distinguished Service Award and the Carol Burchfield Teacher Award for Academic Excellence. Pearson is married to Joel Pearson, a Montgomery attorney who is also a Saint James School alumnus (’76). Their two adult children, Nan and Hartley, both attended Saint James School, graduating in 2006 and 2008, respectively.

Trinity Senior Wins DAR Essay Contest

Trinity Presbyterian School senior Thomas Stallings is the winner of the DAR Good Citizen Essay for the Francis Marion Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The DAR Good Citizen is an outstanding senior who demonstrates qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism. This intense essay contest is very competitive. The title of the essay is announced at the actual time of writing and must be proctored by a faculty member within a two-hour time limit. Other factors are considered, such as the student’s activities, grades and test scores, as well as letters of recommendation. Stallings received this prestigious honor at the DAR Good Citizen Essay Award Ceremony at the Montgomery Country Club on April 10, where he read aloud his essay. DAR Chairman Shan Russell is shown with Thomas Stallings. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Evangel Names Mr. and Miss ECA

Evangel Christian Academy named the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2013 Mr. and Miss ECA at the end of the year awards day. Seniors Emily Berg and Brian Paterson were chosen for this distinguished honor. The two seniors were chosen by the faculty and student body because of their Christian testimonies as well as their academic and leadership skills. The students each received a scholarship which they may use toward a college of their choice or a mission trip to further their faithful walk with God.

ACA Participates In Walk for Diabetes

Alabama Christian Academy elementary students raised $1,912 to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Students bought paper shoes ranging from $1 to $5. They could buy one or they could buy plenty. Many students emptied their piggy banks to support this cause since two elementary students and one teacher are type 1 diabetics. The fundraising concluded with a walk and picnic on the football field and many ACA family and friends came to walk and support the cause. The elementary NEHS supplied water to keep everybody hydrated. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Catholic Honors Students at Academic Awards Ceremony

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored its top high school students at the annual Academic Awards Ceremony held in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center May 6. Many honors were bestowed including the most outstanding student in each subject area. These students are Zach Hulcher, Mason Shell, May Janet McLaughlin and Nathan Revor in English; Berkeley Hall, Zach Hulcher, Willie Revelo, Leo Petters, Patrick O’Mara and Nathan Revor in math; Jarrett Mason, Madelin O’Mara, Leo Petters and Joonhee Kim in Science; Fran Mount, Sara Elizabeth Parker, Jacob Hulcher and Nathan Revor in social studies; David Norris, Andrea Hayesm Leo Petters and Marissa Dogan in theology; Mary Janet McLaughlin, Bryan Rodopoulos and Katherine Terino in Spanish; Derek Kelley, Maddie O’Mara and Megan Karst in French; and Richard Kanneh, Mary Reagan Starrett and Lindsey Tynan in Latin. William Russell, shown below, was named most outstanding student in band and Dylan Craig most outstanding student in technology. The senior members of the Loretto chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) were recognized during the ceremony: Megan Karst, president; Jarrett Mason, vice president; Anna Vail Chancey, treasurer; Alexa Wilkinson, secretary; Michaela Armstrong, Hannah Barranco, Dylan Craig, Kenneth Dickerson, Ashtyn DuBois, Berkeley Hall, Zachary Hulcher, Sarah Nolan, David Norris, Conner Preston, Taylor Pitters, Robert Sankey, Giselle Simms, Sarah Talbot and Katherine Terino. Montgomery Catholic’s Key Club members accumulated more than 2,000 service hours to the Montgomery community this year. There were fifteen students who gave more than 50 hours of their time during this school year: Michaela Armstrong, Alex Castanza, Anna Vail Chancey, Dylan Craig, Eric Crenshaw, Andrea Hayes, Zach Hulcher, Derek Kelly, Daniel LoBello, Jihyun Lee, Jarrett Mason, Taylor Pitters, Shelby Taff, Sarah Talbot and Chase Williams. Students with the highest grade-point average for each high school grade level were also recognized. The most outstanding freshman was Patrick O’Mara; outstanding sophomore was Leo Petters; outstanding junior was Maddie O’Mara; and outstanding senior and valedictorian for the class of 2013 was Zach Hulcher. He has accepted an Academic Grant from MIT. Honor roll certificates were given to those students who attained A or A/B honor roll throughout the school year for each grade level. The Joe Arban Perfect Attendance Award was given to Stanley Donald Magdon, Maddie O’Mara and Ashley Taylor Sulzby. The evening culminated with two of the highest awards given at Montgomery Catholic: Leader of the Year and the Ideal Graduate. Top right, high school Principal Chad Barwick awarded the Montgomery Catholic Leader of the Year award to David Norris, who has served the school in numerous leadership positions throughout his school career. Below right, President Anne Ceasar gave the Montgomery Catholic Ideal Graduate Award to two students who embodied the overall qualities and talents of an ideal graduate: Shelby Taff and Chad DuBois.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Award-Winning Author Visits MA Lower School

Recently, award-winning children’s book author Kate Klise visited with the Montgomery Academy Lower School students and faculty. In the weeks leading up to the visit, students prepared by reading and discussing Klise’s books and characters with their teachers and librarian Frances Smith. During her day at the Academy, Klise gave three informative and fun presentations to students, sharing her secret for good storytelling and explaining the creative process of writing a book. She encouraged all the students to start writing by offering a specific structure for them to try, a clock. Klise engaged the students by pulling volunteers to create a story, each coming up with their own part of the story sequence. Klise gave examples ranging from The Wizard of Oz to Star Wars, presenting the success of the clock structure. A special workshop involving 20 selected students was also included in the day’s visit. In the workshop, Klise used a starter prompt to help students determine their character and his or her problem. She then gave the children ten minutes to put together the beginning of their story. During the ten minutes, she walked around the room offering encouragement and suggestions and then asked the students to come forward and present their stories. As they read, Klise followed the clock structure she had described in her presentations earlier. www.montgomeryparents.com

Trinity Senior Wins Volunteer Award

MEA Students Visit Cyclorama & Turner Field

Macon East Academy fifth- and sixthgrade students visited the Atlanta Cyclorama and Civil War Museum. The students enjoyed viewing the cylindrical panoramic painting of the American Civil War Battle of Atlanta. As part of their day in Atlanta, the students also visited Turner Field. The students were excited to see the home of the Atlanta Braves baseball team. They learned that the stadium was also the centerpiece of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. Then the students enjoyed lunch at the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, The Varsity. Bailey Estes, Sydney Weverink and Claire Donaldson are shown at Turner Field.

Trinity Presbyterian School senior Molly Catherine Brown was recognized as the River Region Volunteer of the Year in the youth category (18 and under) at the Volunteer of the Year Celebration on April 25 at Trinity Church Hall. The award, which is sponsored by HandsOn River Region and the Junior League of Montgomery, is given in recognition of those dedicated to serving others and their positive impact on the community. Brown has served as a Wildcat Girl (Trinity School’s ambassadors) for the past three years. She organized a fundraiser, “Annie’s Smile,” for dental hygiene products to be taken to an orphanage in Bulgaria. More than 400 toothbrushes and toothpaste were collected and delivered by missionaries to the orphanage. Brown is currently serving as president of “Volunteers in Action.” Through her work with “Volunteers in Action,” she has conducted a “Sports Day” at a local YMCA for less fortunate children, participated in a “Live Healthy” after-school program for Harrison Elementary School students and assisted with the “Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis.” This past summer Brown had the privilege of being selected to travel as an ambassador to South Korea representing Alabama in a program entitled A-Keep. The A-Keep program serves as a conduit for academic, educational, and cultural exchange between Alabama and Korea. She spent ten days exploring Korea and was paired with a Korean counterpart family, staying with them for several days. Trinity School College Counselor Elizabeth Mosley is shown with Molly Catherine Brown.

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Holy Cross Wins Poptops Contest For Ronald McDonald Charity

Holy Cross Episcopal School participates in a number of community outreach projects throughout the year, but the Ronald McDonald House contest is an ongoing project that everyone at the school has participated in for the last eleven years. Students are encouraged to collect as many poptops from soft drinks and soup cans as possible. All of the classes at Holy Cross have a jug in their room that they try to fill. This year’s goal was to fill at least 56 jugs to beat last year’s amount. With the help of Holy Cross families, they exceeded their goal by filling 81 jugs weighing a whopping 200 pounds, setting a new school record. Outreach coordinator Marcia Bazzell was ecstatic at the number of jugs students filled. “The determination of our students never ceases to amaze me,” Bazzell said. The faculty was thrilled to hear that Holy Cross had won the contest for the most pounds collected by schools in our category. Faculty and students alike look forward to trying to collect even more next year.

STJ Middle Schoolers Re-Enact Historic Trials

Shortly before their annual mock trials began in a downtown courtroom on May 1, Saint James eighth-grade Advanced History students (including “prosecutor” Mason Edwards, left, and “witness” Emily Kent) rehearsed their roles in the high school library. The trials are a much-anticipated, high point during the eighth-grade year. The students tried two notorious cases in American history: The United States vs. Ethel and Julius Rosenberg and The United States Court Martial of Lieutenant William Calley. What made these mock trial events even more unique was the fact that students tried the cases in a real courtroom before Montgomery County District Judge Jimmy Pool, who served as the presiding judge.

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STJ Golfers Win Capital City Conference

Saint James School’s Trojan Golfers won the Capital City Conference Championship in late April by 18 shots with a season-low 302. Walker Carr placed second (playoff) with a 72, and Parker Usry finished third with a 74. All five players for STJ shot in the 70s: Walker Wise shot 77, and Slade Methvin and Chase Hastey both shot 79. Golf team members include, from left, Brooke Sansom, Walker Wise, Walker Carr, Nick Farmer, Parker Usry, Slade Methvin, Cooper Sharp, Chase Hastey and Coach Jeff McIntyre

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ECA Sixth-Grade Class Graduates

Evangel Christian Academy’s sixth-grade class was promoted to junior high during a ceremony May 23. The sixth-grade class recited Bible verses and sang dedication songs to their parents and previous elementary teachers. The students honored their parents with personalized gifts and a special video presentation. Valedictorian Brandon Martin and salutatorian Corryne Blanks each gave speeches marking this milestone in the students’ lives. At the end of the ceremony each student received a “promotion to junior high certificate.” Family and friends joined the students for a reception. Following tradition, the students were whisked away by a limousine at the end of the day.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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

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Montgomery Catholic Congratulates Class of 2013

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Montgomery Catholic’s 138th Commencement Exercises took place in an outdoor ceremony on the grounds of the Athletic Complex at the Vaughn Road Campus. Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi, Superintendent of Education Gwen Byrd, Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar, and High School Principal Chad Barwick were joined by Father David Carucci, Father Patrick Driscoll ‘84, Father Pat Arensberg, Deacon Jim Labadie, Father Linn Harbour and Father Michael Ssenfuma from Uganda as special guests of the class. Salutatorian Jarrett Mason and valedictorian Zachary Hulcher addressed their fellow graduates, special guests, family and friends. Members of the junior class hosted the graduates and their families at a reception in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center following the ceremony. Graduates include: Michaela Marie Armstrong*, Hannah Marie Barranco*, Robert Chapman Barranco, Hollis DeForrest Carlton, Anna Vail Chancey*, Dylan Arndt Craig*, Michael Dwayne Dallas, Stanley Syncade Davis, Baines Augustus Deal, Matthew Kearson DeVries, Kenneth Dickerson, Jr.*, Ashtyn Leigh DuBois*, Chad Taylor DuBois, Katharina Sarah Edwards, Patrick Charles Foran, Chase Patrick Forshey, Calvin De’Andre Freeman, Claire Marie Galluzzi, Berkeley Nichole Hall*, Zachary Robert Hulcher*-Valedictorian, Sydney Marie Jarman, Megan Renee Karst*, Jinah Kim, Jordan LaShun Lacey, Kathryn Elizabeth Lafreniere, Aisha Cheyenne Lee, Anthony Michael Loria, Alexandria Michelle Manning, Daniel Joseph Manzari, Hannah Cardwell Masingill, Jarrett Lee Mason* -Salutatorian, Timothy Dean McOmber, Mary Frances Miles, William Stone Miller, Mary Frances Mount, Sarah Marie Nolan*, David Christopher Norris*, Paul Edward Overton, Stefan Alexander Perritano, Taylor Jamaica Pitters*, Conner Daniel Preston*, James Gregory Rickels, Ronald Lewis Riggles, Stephen Dean Rodopoulos, Robert Lee Sankey*, Giselle Renee’ Simms*, Blayne Cavell Spigner, Mary Joanne Spotswood, John Carroll Starr, Margaret Dawson Starr, Natalie Elise Sullivan, Shelby Anne Taff, Sarah Margaret Talbot*, Benjamin Newman Taylor, Cayatana Deliesse Taylor, Katherine Rose Terino*, Peter Michael Tyner, Lauren Elizabeth Walker, Alexa Jordan Wilkinson*, Callie Nicole Wilkinson, Mary Elizabeth Wyatt and Linda Han Zhang. *National Honor Society

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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.

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Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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St. Bede Sixth-Grader Wins Humane Society Contest

ACA Holds 2013 Kindergarten Graduation

This year 41 Alabama Christian Academy kindergarten students presented an entertaining program for their parents, grandparents and family friends at the University Church of Christ. Gabe Dixon, Brayden Johnson, Karson Oakley and Mac Moorer led singing, Tyson read Proverbs 18:24 and Jake Davenport led the prayer. Before Elementary Principal Doug Black presented the diplomas, guests got a chance to watch a photo slide show of “A Year in Kindergarten.”

On May 13, Mary Hughes from the Montgomery Humane Society made a visit to the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School St. Bede campus with exciting news. Sixth-grade student Ricky Treloar had entered the Humane Society’s poster contest in honor of National Be Kind to Animals Week at the encouragement of his teacher, Lori Riggles. His poster was one of 160+ posters submitted in the contest. First, second, third and honorable mentions were given. Treloar was presented the prize for first place at a school assembly in the school cafeteria. His parents Teresa and Greg Treloar, along with his second-grade sister Amy, were also at the assembly as his poster was displayed for the school and he received the $100 cash prize and a medal for his poster. The poster will be framed and will hang in the Humane Society lobby. Shown, Ricky Treloar with his parents Greg and Teresa and his sister Amy, and his first-place poster from the Montgomery Humane Society’s National Be Kind to Animals Week poster contest.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Academy Celebrates Class of 2013

The Class of 2013 from The Montgomery Academy claims numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 48 students, this senior class celebrates the recognition of 12 students in the National Merit Scholarship Program and the Advanced Placement Scholars Program. Since joining the Upper School in the Fall of 2009, members of this class have played key roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing 12 State Championships, while at the same time contributing to the Speech and Debate programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recognition by the National Forensic League as being in the top 1% in the nation. With acceptances to 61 different institutions of higher learning, 40 students in the senior class have been offered $3,515,484 in merit-based scholarship money, an amount which does not include financial aid or need-based scholarships.

Macon East Third-Graders Enjoy State Delicacies

Macon East Academy third-grade students celebrated the completion of their research on the states with class presentations. Students dressed in costumes that represented their states for the presentations which included a cowgirl and a hula dancer. They especially enjoyed sharing state delicacies like huckleberry jam, doughboys and crab cakes.

MEA Students Visit McClellandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Critters Zoo

Macon East Academy second-grade students visited McClellandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Critters Zoo in Banks, Ala. The students were able to see lions, tigers, ligers, wolves, bears, monkeys, camels and other interesting animals up close. The owner of the zoo guided the students throughout the property educating and entertaining them with information and stories about the animals at this special zoo. The students even had a chance to hold a live snake! Shown along with their teacher Ellen Lawrence are Brennan Mauney, Lucy Taylor, Wade Desmarais, Austin Gorman, Garrett Cook, Anna Glynn Lott, Kadence Moss and Matthew Kitchens.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Holy Cross Second-Graders Visit Old Alabama Town

ACA Chooses Mr. & Miss ACA, Mr. & Miss Citizenship

The two highest awards given to Alabama Christian Academy seniors are Mr. and Miss ACA and Mr. and Miss Citizenship. The winner of this year’s Miss Citizenship has been active in several groups on campus including National Honor Society, Key Club, SALT and SGA. She volunteers in the community and dedicates time to serving her church family. This year’s recipient is Rebecca May, above. This year’s Mr. Citizenship is a servant and leader in the school as well as the community. He has been a strong athlete and leader on several teams. He has served various community groups as a volunteer and worked on mission trips with his church. This year Mr. Citizenship is Allen Mote, above. Miss ACA goes to a young woman who has been an active participant in many groups including National Honor Society, SALT and MUN and Mu Alpha Theta. She has a humble heart that desires to serve God and others, and she constantly looks for ways to help and encourage those around her. This year’s Miss ACA is Maggie Mitchell, below. Mr. ACA has been a scholar, a leader and an athlete, earning membership in several groups, including National Honor Society, SALT, Mu Alpha Theta and Athletic Ambassadors. He is active in his church, attending mission trips and youth retreats. This year’s recipient is Daniel Bandy, below.

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Second-graders from Holy Cross Episcopal School enjoyed a fun, educational field trip to Old Alabama Town. They learned about school in the “olden days” and were intrigued that students had to help the teacher clean the school room and bring wood in for the stove each day. Students were thrilled that they no longer have those types of responsibilities. They were also glad that Holy Cross does not have a “dunce stool” and that you no longer have to share a classroom with every grade. Students visited a “shotgun” house, the general store, the doctor’s office and a church. They learned that church services lasted several hours and the pews were not as comfortable as we have today. The students got to expend some energy on the neat playground when the tour was done. Cynthia Echols is the second-grade teacher.

Spring Signing Day at Montgomery Catholic

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School held a signing ceremony for its spring student-athletes inside the Dolly Barranco Center (DBC) on the high school campus May 15. The Knights celebrated the signing of Michael Dallas (Huntingdon), Skip Martin (North Alabama) and Jarrett Mason (Millsaps). Dallas, a two-time All-Metro selection for the Knights, will play college basketball at Huntingdon College, choosing the Hawks over Spring Hill College. Dallas scored his 1,000th-career point earlier this season, and led the Knights in scoring average the past two seasons including averaging over 20 points per game for nearly all of the 2012-13 basketball season. Martin, a state champion in track and field, will run at the University of North Alabama, choosing the Lions over Spring Hill College. Martin won the indoor and outdoor 1600-meter championships during the 2012 track season and finished second in the event at this year’s outdoor event. He has also anchored three 4x800-meter championships (one indoor and two outdoor) for the Knights, while earning All-State honors in cross country with his top 10 finish at the cross country championships this fall - helping the Knights win the Class 3A state title. Mason will continue his running career at Millsaps College next fall after finishing second at the AHSAA cross country championships this fall and helping the Knights grab the Class 3A state title along the way. Mason finished in the top five two consecutive years for the Knights at the cross country championships, and has finished as a state medalist in many events in track and field during his prep career. He also ran on the last three 4x800-meter championship teams for the Knights (one indoor and two outdoor), including winning the third consecutive outdoor title this spring. Seated from left are Skip Martin, Jarrett Mason and Michel Dallas. Standing are family members Dave and Jamie Martin;Tony and Jenny Mason; and Michael, Sonja and Gabrielle Dallas. 36

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Three Trinity Juniors Chosen For 2014 National Merit Program

Trinity Presbyterian School juniors Hannah Green, Sarah Green and Wesley Curles met requirements to enter the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program with their qualifying test scores on the 2012 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). These students are among the 50,000 highest-scoring participants of some 1.5 million program entrants. Of the more than 50,000 high scorers nationwide, about 16,000 will be named National Merit Program Semifinalists, representing the top scorers in each state, and approximately 34,000 others will be commended for their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT. Semifinalists and Commended Students in the 2014 National Merit Program will learn of their standing in September 2013. Trinity has a long-standing tradition of producing National Merit Finalists. The school has graduated 24 National Merit Finalists, 27 National Merit Semifinalists and 26 Commended Students. The 2013 Class has one National Merit Finalist--Nina Smith--and one Commended Student--Jacqueline Morris--in the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Program. From left are Sarah Green, Wesley Curles and Hannah Green.

Academy Middle School Builds Roller Coasters

Montgomery Academy fifth-grade students recently created mini-roller coasters for marbles, made out of everyday items like foil, cardstock and cardboard. The project was the culmination of their unit of study on forces and Newton’s Three Laws of Motion. “The students had to think about how the laws of motion are demonstrated on a roller coaster and make the connection that Newton’s laws apply to pretty much everything in the world,” said fifth-grade science teacher Jennie Rains. Students had to create a working model that took the marble from start to finish and successfully travel a loop on the track. Afterward, the students used their iPads to create a short commercial advertising their roller coaster.

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Trinity’s John Hall Chosen for Vanderbilt Summer Academy

Macon East Students Enjoy ‘Read to the Paw’

Trinity Presbyterian School sophomore John Hall has been accepted to attend the 2013 Vanderbilt Summer Academy (VSA), a program for academically gifted students in grades eight through twelve hosted by Vanderbilt University’s Program for Talented Youth (PTY). Students who attend VSA are among the brightest in the country, scoring in the top tier on academic achievement tests such as the SAT and ACT. Hall has chosen to study Principles of Engineering. “VSA classes develop students’ critical thinking skills, encourage intellectual exploration, and teach them how to thrive in a college classroom setting,” says PTY Executive Director Dr. Tamra Stambaugh. “Students are able to push their intellectual limits alongside peers who also appreciate the sheer joy of learning and discovery.” VSA consists of one-week, two-week, and three-week sessions, each featuring challenging courses taught in university classrooms and laboratories by Vanderbilt scholars. The caliber of VSA’s teaching staff and students’ access to university resources make VSA unique among summer academic programs for gifted youth.

First-graders at Macon East Academy made some very special friends this year. Mary Hughes and her dog, Harvey, came to visit each Wednesday as part of the Humane Society’s program, “Read to the Paw.” Harvey would listen attentively, sometimes lazily, as the children each took a turn reading to him. As the year drew to an end, the children wanted to say thank you, so they all brought in special treats and toys for Harvey and a special thankyou card for Ms. Mary. They were very proud to present these gifts on Harvey’s last visit and get two long, last hugs—one from Ms. Mary and one from her dog, Harvey! Shown with Harvey are Mary Hughes, Reid Sanford, Garrett Robbins, Luke Stabler, Gunner Justice, Emily Seele and Jameson Byrom.

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STJ Places Second at State Forensics Tourney

Saint James School’s Forensics Team came in second place overall and second place in individual events at the State Forensics Tournament held in Montgomery April 18-20. The event was hosted by LAMP. The STJ team won four individual state championships for Dramatic Interpretation (Maya Smith), Original Oratory (Jessica Bozeman), International Extemporaneous Speaking (Sahil Patel), and Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking (McLean Stewart). The team also had four second-place individual event finishes in After Dinner Speaking (Jessica Bozeman), Impromptu Speaking (Hayden Cavanaugh), Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate (Georgina Gilbert), and Policy Debate (Phillip Davis and Justin Lee.) In addition to the honors above, the STJ Forensics Team had two thirdplace winners in Prose and Humorous Interpretation, three fourth-place winners in International Extemporaneous Speaking, Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking, and Prose, and fifth-place awards in Humorous Interpretation, Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking, and Duo Interpretation. Students Hayden Cavanaugh and McLean Stewart received a semi-finalist placing in Public Forum Debate, while Arthur Frawley and Jon Smithart received a quarter-finalist placing in Public Forum Debate.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

ECA Boys’ Track Team Competes at State Meet

Evangel Christian Academy’s boys’ track team recently competed in the AISA state track competition. After an outstanding performance, ECA placed second in the state. Several members of the boys’ team received individual awards. Jay Grice was the state champion in both the High Jump and 400m Dash. James Thomas won the state championship for the 200m Dash. Jordan Sanders won second place in the Triple Jump, second place in the 100m and 300m hurdles, third place in the Long Jump, and was the MVP of the meet.

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STJ’s Lewis Takes Third in Computing Competition

Academy Seventh-Graders Celebrate Book Day

Under the direction of English teacher Caroline Sease, Montgomery Academy seventh-graders work for weeks creating, writing, illustrating and binding a children’s book to present and share with a kindergarten or first-grade student. The kindergarten and first-grade students practice reading a favorite book to share with their seventh-grade partners. The students love getting together to exchange their books and celebrate reading!

Saint James junior Shaun Lewis took third place in the Atlanta regional contest of the B.I.G. (Blacks in Government) Computing competition with his website “Cloud Computing--Pros and Cons.” Lewis was required to create a website complete with graphics, audio and links, and to present his website and answer questions posed by judges about both his topic and his design methods. The website was evaluated on visual appeal and quality of content as well as adherence to guidelines. Earlier, Lewis became the winner in the state website design contest held on March 1 in Montgomery. In the Atlanta regional competition on April 13, Lewis competed against five other students, each representing their southeastern state. Software developers, businessmen and judges who all witnessed Lewis’ presentation said they were very impressed with his work and his knowledge. This is the first year a Saint James student has competed in the B.I.G. Computing competition.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Holy Cross Fifth-Graders Win Poster Contest

Holy Cross Episcopal School had three winners in the poster contest sponsored by the Sons of the American Revolution. Students were asked to make a poster depicting information on the Declaration of Independence. There were three regional winners at Holy Cross: Makayla Culpepper, Kinley Tadlock and Cole Pierce. Culpepper’s poster not only won first in the region but went on to the state level and took the third-place prize. Representatives from the Sons of the American Revolution General Richard Montgomery Chapter, CSM William D. “Sky” King and Philip David, came to the school to present the winners with certificates and cash prizes. Culpepper was all smiles and completely speechless as she accepted her award. Sons of the American Revoultion representatives are shown with contest winners, from left, Makayla Culpepper, Kinley Tadlock and Cole Pierce.

ACA Fifth-Graders Hold Spring Fling

Alabama Christian Academy fifth-grade students put on an amazing Spring Fling Show under the direction of music teacher Kari Kelly to properly say goodbye to elementary and say hello to Middle School. The theme was “Rockin’ ACA” with renditions of “Grease” songs with a twist, like “Middle School Knock Outs” referring to the pretty girls. Superintendent Dr. Slauson and Elementary Principal Doug Black also had a part in the skits that were performed. After the show the students were rewarded with a cast party at the Bowling Alley.

Evangel’s Kindergarten Holds Graduation

The K5 class at Evangel Christian Academy culminated the year with a program and graduation ceremony. The program started with the students reciting Bible verses and songs. The audience then enjoyed a visit from various Bible characters. The children shared math skills, reading rules, and the process by which they learned to read through songs and skits. At the end of the program, the eager kindergartners sang “Movin’ on Up” in which they told everyone of their excitement of going to first grade. After their grand finale, the class left to change into their caps and gowns. While the students were changing, the parents enjoyed a video presentation about kindergarten life and another presentation celebrating the students from birth to graduation. The graduates later returned dressed in traditional caps and gowns. After awards were given out, the guests were invited to a reception honoring the students.

Galassini Named Harbin Award Winner for Distinguished Service

Jack Galassini was honored by Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School as the 2013 Charlie Harbin Distinguished Service Award winner for his volunteerism to the school. The Charlie Harbin Distinguished Service Award was established by the Harbin family and awarded by the school to recognize those selfless individuals who have significantly served Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School and exemplified its values in their lives. Galassini’s support of Montgomery Catholic spans three decades, beginning in the mid 1980s and through the mid 1990s while his three children were students at the school. He continued into the new millennium where he served as the emcee for several school events including the annual school spring fundraiser and filled in wherever and whenever he was asked. Over the years, Galassini was involved with Back to School nights, picnics, rummage sales, and hosted school Halloween parties at his home. He was a School Board member and a Booster Club member who was instrumental in getting the club started. Galassini created Booster Buddies which helped increase attendance at Booster Club meetings, helped with Legislative Conventions, SACS Accreditation, and provided the school with extensive knowledge and ideas for the “Faith in Education” Capital Campaign which enabled the school to expand adding the Belke Lab, Middle School, and Athletic Fields. He was invaluable in the planning and success of the annual Seafood Dinner held for years as a school fundraiser. From left are Anne Ceasar, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School president, Jack Galassini and his wife Patricia. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Trinity Hires New Upper School Principal

Michael Zavada joins Trinity Presbyterian School to become the principal for grades 6-12 for the 2013-2014 school year. Zavada comes from the Randolph School in Huntsville, where he has served most recently as the K-8th athletic director and summer programs coordinator. During his seven years at Randolph, Zavada also served as an instructor for United States history, speech and debate, the varsity head coach for the boys’ basketball and golf programs, and as a college counselor. Prior to joining Randolph, Zavada and his wife Pamela were teachers at the Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawaii. The couple also had the opportunity to serve as Young Life leaders for two years. The Zavadas are the parents of three children: Collette, 6, Ezekiel, 4, and Wyatt, 2.

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Holy Cross Honors Principal Melanie Kelley

The annual Low Country Boil at Holy Cross Episcopal School was a huge success as people from around the community came to support the school at this special event. It began with a silent auction as guests walked around bidding on their favorite items. Everything from jewelry to gift cards and weekend getaways were up for grabs as the tables adorned with items lined the hallways of Holy Cross. After the silent auction, guests made their way outside under the large white tent where up-and-coming country artist Donica Knight performed a number of songs and guests were able to eat a delicious meal. Aside from providing a great time, this event was held in honor of retiring principal, Melanie Kelley. During the event, Kelley was presented with an assortment of gifts, one being a cross created by art teacher Kathy Albree. The beautiful cross was made with the school population’s eye colors. If the cross had not already made. Kelley teary-eyed, the presentation of a sign that will now be placed in the school’s great hall deeming it “Melanie Kelley Hall” certainly did. Kelley will always be remembered for her sweet spirit and charisma that has shown love to each child who has walked the halls of Holy Cross.

Academy Upper School Chorus Earns First Place in Competition

Montgomery Academy’s Upper School Chorus earned First Place in Division 3A Concert Choir at the Heritage National Choral Competition in New York City. The Upper School Chorus competed against schools with 1,500-2,000 students from Arizona, South Carolina, Virginia, New Jersey, North Carolina and Georgia. In order to qualify to attend this event, choral ensembles must score Superior Ratings at State Assessment.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Catholic Honors Varsity Athletes Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored its varsity athletes for the 2012-2013 year at the annual Varsity Athletic Banquet held at the RSA Activity Center on May 8. Montgomery Catholic fields 17 varsity team sports throughout the year. High School Principal Chad Barwick recognized the four nominees for the Jimmy Hitchcock Award: Zach Hulcher, Jarrett Mason, David Norris and Katherine Terino. Also recognized were Montgomery Catholic’s ninth-grade nominees: Agnes Armstrong, Emily Barranco, Blake Johnson and Patrick O’Mara. Montgomery Catholic has four awards which honor individual team members for their hard work and dedication to their sport. Three of these distinguished awards honor individuals who had tremendous influence on our athletic program: Father Patrick Delahunty, Joe Fields and Coach Jack Kresek. The Father Pat Delahunty Sportsmanship Award, named for the founder of Catholic’s athletic program, honors the athlete who demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship. The Fr. Delahunty Sportsmanship Award winners were Kyle

Berher, Alex Castanza, Cole Dixon, Ashytn Dubois, Zach Hulcher, Taylor Jones, Ashley Kim, Anna McCracken, Timothy McOmber, Michael Moussalli, Sarah Nolen, Megan Revor, Katelyn Stark, Caya Taylor and Callie Wilkinson. The Coach Jack Kresek Coaches Award, named for a much-beloved football coach who led the Knights (then the “Saints”) from 1956 until 1961, recognizes the athlete who exhibits strong determination, team effort, dependability, and a winning attitude. The Jack Kresek Coaches Award winners were Carrie Belsterling, Kyle Berher, Kylie Frank, Calvin Freeman, John Haynes, Jacob Hulcher, Zach Hulcher, Ashley Kim, Kaleb Libby, Mary Janet McLaughlin, Jenni Morgan, Nathan Revor, Nate Smith, Natalie Sullivan, Emily Tolar and Lindsey Tynan. The Joe Fields Leadership Award, named for an outstanding student-athlete from the 1970s who displayed outstanding leadership while attending Montgomery Catholic, honors the athlete who demonstrate exceptional leadership skills to their teammates. The Joe Fields Leader-

ship Award winners were Chase Forshey, Claire Galluzzi, Zach Hulcher, Samantha Kocan, Jordan Lacey, Dylan Martin, Jarrett Mason, Fran Mount, David Norris, James Sherman, Katherine Terino, Michael Tyner and Kirstin Wood. Each varsity sport names one Most Valuable Player. Montgomery Catholic’s MVPs were Emily Barranco, Michael Dallas, Ashtyn DuBois, Kylie Frank, Zack Jones, Katie Lafreniere, Alex Manning, Skip Martin, Jarrett Mason, Ryan Norris, Sydney O’Connor, Sarabeth Parker, Greg Rickels, Dean Rodopoulos, Katherine Terino, Zach Van Alst, Lauren Walker and Kirstin Wood. The top athletes from each sport are nominated for the Knights of the Round Table Award, which recognizes the top male and female athlete of the year. The Knights of the Round Table nominees were Zach Hulcher, Jarrett Mason, David Norris, Natalie Sullivan, Katherine Terino, Callie Wilkinson. The Montgomery Catholic Knights of the Round Table Winners are Jarrett Mason and Katherine Terino.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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I hope everyone is having a restful summer. Autauga County Public Schools graduated 660 students this year. The number of students scoring 26 or above on the ACT in the Autauga County Public School System is over 15 percent. Academic scholarships for students begin at the 26 score level. Scholarship money will be flowing again in Autauga County for our seniors this year with our students receiving over 6.6 million dollars in scholarships. This is the most ever in Autauga County. I commend all the teachers from kindergarten through twelfth grade who have contributed to this amazing academic success of the students in Autauga County. We completed state compliance monitoring on May 16. Compliance monitoring consists of a team from the State Department of Education that conducts an extremely

thorough evaluation of the school system. The process went great! The chief of the monitoring team, Paul Gay, stated, “This is the best audit I have ever seen for a school system of this size.” I think this quote brings great credit and recognition to the outstanding administrators and teachers in Autauga County. This was a great capstone event for our school year. In February I developed a Superintendents’ Leadership Advisory Council to help me stay in touch with the classroom. We had our first meeting in March and our first guest speaker in April. At each meeting I present the latest information involving all levels of education matters, and I answer any questions they or their fellow teachers may have. I challenged this group last month to determine three things we need to improve in Autauga County. I believe teachers are the most important part of the educational equation, and I want them to have a voice in our great county. The teachers that have agreed to be a part of my first Superintendents’ Leadership Advisory Council are Tammy Horton, Laura Burton, Raeann German, Teresea Calhoun, Julie Stewart, Dan Freeman, Libby Bruce,

Karen Cannon, Ava Cranmore, Karen Powell, Emily Gregory, Angie Barrett, Kevin Palmer, Donna Finch, LeeAnne Lovelady, Sarah Hallman, and Trish Mathis. We are saying farewell to 21 fine educators that are retiring this year. Linda Averhart, Lillie Bowling, Linda Burrow, Marcus Burt, Camille Carr, Mary Collett, Alice DeRamus, Cathy Faulkner, Ann Glasscock, Leigh Gray, Robin Grimsley, Emily Hunt, Purvis Johnson, Pearl Lewis, Darlene McCord, Leslie McGough, Suzanne McPherson, Beth Moates, Van Smith, Denise Thompson, and Diane Warner. I thank each of you for your years of service in educating our children in Autauga County. The impact teachers have on our future is priceless. I hope each of you has a great, well deserved retirement. Thanks for all you have done! 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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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Prattville Freshman Academy Chosen as AUM Lab School

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Prattville Kindergarten Holds Family Fun Day

On May 3, Prattville Kindergarten School held its annual Family Fun and Fitness Day. The day began with a “Start Your Engines” parade. Participants included Superintendent Spence Agee, Mayor Bill Gillespie, Prattville Fire Department representatives, Prattville Police Department representatives, Prattville High School Band and all PKS faculty, staff and students. The remainder of the day was filled with field day activities and award ceremonies.

Prattville Elementary Raises Funds for iPads

Prattville Elementary School held its second annual “Bobcat Bolt” on April 5. Students collected pledges for each lap they completed around the track, raising more than $12,000. These funds will be used this summer to purchase iPads for every classroom teacher.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Prattville High School’s Freshman Academy has been selected by the Auburn University at Montgomery to be the 2013-2014 Lab School for its Secondary Education Program. Different than a student internship, AUM Education students will observe various instructional strategies, teaching methods and classroom management styles in a structured setting. They will then participate in lesson planning and classroom demonstrations.

Prattville ROTC Cadets Attend Leadership Camp

The Prattville High School AFJROTC Cadets spent the first week of June testing their skills at Fort McClellan, attending JROTC Cadet Leadership Challenge. This one-week camp is hosted by the Alabama Army National Guard and Alabama Army JROTC units. Each cadet is given the opportunity to lead groups of fellow high school cadets from all over the state through a challenging week that simulates training done by active duty members. The first few days the cadets learned Land Navigation, tested their mettle on the Confidence Course and Leadership Reaction Course and Cadet Spencer Strauss’ favorite…repelling off the tower. “The first time stepping over the edge was scary, but by the fourth repel, I made it down in two bounces,” the first year cadet said. The cadets also competed on sports teams that held competitions after dinner each night. The camp culminated with each of the Prattville High School students receiving medals that recognized various achievements in leadership, sports and military knowledge. From left, with medals earned at Fort McClellan, are: Nathalee Andrews, Katelyn Barrett, Spencer Strauss, Patrick Motley, Isabella Opichka, Jason Brosius, Wynoakia Walters and Lt. Col. Gary Essary (Instructor) Bottom left, Cadet Spencer Strauss during his fourth repel. 45

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Summer vacation is in full swing for Elmore County Public School students and it is the perfect time to look back at our school year and forward to the next. As one of Alabama’s largest school systems with over 11,000 students and 1,300 certified and support professionals in the heart of one of Alabama’s fastest growing counties, our Elmore County School System family works continuously to improve in our mission to provide exemplary experiences for our students. As I reflect back on this school year, here are just a few highlights: The excitement of our graduates illuminated the final days of the school year as our seniors across the district received approximately $6.5 million in scholarship offers. Thanks to the A+ College Ready program, our students continue to excel in

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Advanced Placement courses. Thanks to the efforts of our teachers and administrators, our district was one of four in Alabama named to the AP District Honor Roll for expanding opportunity and improving performance for AP students. As of the beginning of the 2013-2014 school year, Holtville High School has been selected for the A+ program. It is thrilling to have all four of our high schools involved in this outstanding initiative. Holtville High senior Colton Campbell and Elmore County High senior Carter Singleton were named the winners of Elmore County’s prestigious Joe Sewell Memorial Award for excellence both on and off the athletic field. Three of our schools—Wetumpka Elementary, Wetumpka Middle, and Wetumpka High-- achieved numerous recognitions recently at the iCARE Technology Showcase for their efforts in displaying successful technology integration in the classroom. By the time you read this article, our summer leadership retreat will have occurred. This is the time that all central office and school administrators as well as our

board members gather around the table to focus on the three Rs. First, we reflect on the school year that has just ended. Next, we review our opportunities for improvement in the year ahead. Finally, we respond with action plans of how we need to achieve our goals for the coming year. This coming school year, we are going to heighten our emphasis on Professional Learning Communities on each school campus. Stay tuned for further details. 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. Get ready, Elmore County, for an awesome 2013-2014 school year! 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.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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WES Third-Graders Visit Camp Chandler Mrs. Mulcahy’s third-graders from Wetumpka Elementary took a trip to YMCA’s Camp Chandler. The dance center led by B.Sullivan and Margo Thomas is shown. Mrs. Mulcahy and Ms. Weldon were in charge of the water station.

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ARIS Students Earn ‘Wings’ for ARMT+ Performance

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Wetumpka Elementary Teacher Honored In Technology Contest

Wetumpka Elementary School first-grade teacher Kim Deem received third place in the Technology Showcase Competition.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

At Airport Road Intermediate School, fourth-grade students earn their “wings” if they scored a “4” on both the reading and math portions of the ARMT+ test from the previous year. In a ceremony attended by the entire faculty and students of ARIS, students are given pins in the shape of wings. This also motivates the third-graders in attendance to do their best on ARMT+ tests.

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Airport Road Pep Rally Motivates Student Attendance for Tests

Wetumpka Holds Annual ‘Art Under the Stars’

Wetumpka Elementary held its annual spring fundraiser, Art Under the Stars, in April. Parents came to view their children’s artwork and “buy” select pieces.

Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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A pep rally that began with performances by the Airport Road Intermediate School Dance and Choir Clubs and ended with Stanhope Elmore High School cheerleaders and mascots motivated ARIS students toward perfect attendance for the ARMT+ tests during a week in May. As a result, for the first time ever in the memory of teachers, every student tested. Not only that, but students were eager to be tested. Principal Marcia Stephens had laid out a plan that included the ARIS wings pinning and the pep rally to encourage students to do their best and show what they have learned all year. All students rose to the challenge.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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ARIS Third-Graders Visit Montgomery Zoo

Airport Road Intermediate School third-graders visited Montgomery Zoo for a field trip.

ARIS PTO Holds Teacher Appreciation Week

Airport Road Intermediate School PTO President Angelique Ashley gathered a team of volunteers for Teacher Appreciation Week. The final dayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Fridayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;meant duty-free lunch as the volunteers watched the kids in the lunchroom and teachers enjoyed a catered lunch with cupcakes for dessert in the media center.

Top Wetumpka Fundraisers Rewarded with Limo Ride

Students Recognized at WES Honors Day During Honors Day in May, Wetumpka Elementary recognized its fourth-grade spelling bee winners.

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

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Carry Along for Camping

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Little hands are often too small to help assemble the tent, build a campfire or launch the boat, but there are ways that they can make the most of a camping adventure. Equipping them with tools they can use and toys for their down time ensures that camp time is a success from roll up to tent strike. With gear and toys designed especially for kids, the littlest campers can make their own outdoor experience the most fun ever – rain or shine. From in-tent entertainment to wilderness exploration, help the younger set get into the great outdoors in style with the following recommendations!

by Paige Gardner Smith

Mickey Mouse Camper’s Playset

National Geographic Starry Night Lantern

Taking along the best toys to entertain very young campers should be an important part of the planning and packing for family camping trips. Little legs can’t hike all day, and there’s usually an expiration hour for toddlers and tykes when they just get ‘camped out’ and need some toy time. The Mickey Mouse Camper’s Playset lets little ones continue their camping adventure on familiar pretend-play turf as they mirror their outdoor adventures on a small scale. With a cool camper that opens up into a campsite with all the essentials, Mickey and his pal Pluto can enjoy rafting, cookouts, stargazing and more with all the included accessories that guarantee a great camping experience. The vehicle closes up with the gear stowed inside, ready to get back on the road to the next campsite!

For the littlest campers, nighttime in the great outdoors is often when the real adventure begins! And every parent knows that no child is immune to the desire to hold a flashlight or lantern in the darkness. The Starry Night Lantern offers kids two ways to control the light in the night! It carries and functions like a normal lantern, ideal for carrying on nighttime walks and navigating the campsite. But once back inside the RV or tent, the illumination doesn’t end. With the flip of a switch, the light projects through a star field dome on the lantern top to cast the constellations on the walls and ceiling. Kids don’t have to miss starry nights even in overcast or rainy weather. Illuminating in more ways than one, the Starry Night Lantern is a brilliant tool for lighting up overnight camping!

Backyard Safari Cargo Vest

Camp Board Game

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When the family hike is over, the fish and camp stew are cooking and the fireflies are joining the sunset crowd, it’s the perfect time to roll out the Camp Board Game. Loaded with fun facts about the great outdoors, the wilderness adventure continues with friends and family around the campfire (or tent lantern)! Designed with a broad age range of players in mind, this board game offers four different skills levels on each playing card with the easiest questions for very young children to more challenging tasks for teens and adults. Rolling the dice and navigating the footprints along the trails with the goal of getting to “Camp” first, the Camp Board Game is the first thing to unpack when the chores are done!

(Summit)

You never know what you’re going to need on a wilderness journey. Flashlight, whistle, magnifying glass, compass, field guide, fishing line and a snack all deserve a place on the hiking list. But taking a backpack on and off to fish out what you need in the moment takes time away from the real adventure. Rugged and adjustable for size, the Backyard Safari Cargo Vest features roomy cargo pockets (plus six D rings and two shoulder straps) to hang, stow, and carry every kid’s camping and trail-blazing gear. Taking the adventure way beyond the back yard, the Backyard Safari Cargo Vest keeps a kid’s outdoor essentials right at their fingertips!

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

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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How to Pay Less for

In 2011, college seniors graduated with an average college loan debt of nearly $27,000, up 5% from the previous year. Unfortunately, this increase occurred when the unemployment rate of recent college grads also increased to 8.8%. In light of these statistics, and the fact that a semester of college can cost more than a parent makes in a year, it is time to look for help. Following are five ways to cut that school bill down without taking out student loans.

Keep Your Grades Up

I earned a full paid scholarship to the local junior college simply for being in the top 10% of my graduating class. My son will transfer from his community college to university for free for carrying a 3.8 grade point average. Check with your child’s guidance counselor for information regarding any opportunities that exist in your area. Also, register your teen with online scholarship services. (See sidebar for suggestions.) These sites will ask a battery of questions regarding extra-curricular activities, parents’ affiliations, area of study, religion, ethnicity and location. Using the information you provide, they match your child with scholarship opportunities for which he might qualify. In addition to grades, it is important for your child to be active in the community, have significant adults in her life that can write references and have a polished essay describing her financial need.

Apply for Federal Aid

A College Education by Carol J. Alexander

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The Federal Pell Grant award amount for the 2012-13 school year was $5,550. That is more than enough for a student to pay tuition and books at a community college. To apply for the Pell Grant, visit the official website and fill out an application. It will ask for information from your and your child’s current year’s income tax returns so you will want to file them first. The Pell Grant is awarded based on need, but if you do not qualify for one the government has alternative choices like a work/study program. Even if you think you won’t qualify, fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) anyway. Other scholarship programs will want verification that you did apply for the Pell Grant and will use the information from that application.

Dual Enrollment/Early College The Robinson’s had several children start as university sophomores right out of high school who never paid a dime for their first two years of college. The Early College program is available for high school juniors and seniors that agree

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Resources • Free online scholarship matching services can be found at www.scholarships. com and www.zinch.com. • To fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, visit www.fafsa. ed.gov/. • To see if your state participates in the Early College program, visit www. earlycolleges.org. • To review the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), visit their website at http://clep.collegeboard.org/ • According to their website, “The CollegePlus Bachelor’s Degree Program allows you to earn your fully accredited Bachelor’s degree in two to three years, without debt, for around $17,000.” Visit www.collegeplus.org for details. • For a list of the 12 tuition-free colleges in the United States, read this article on the USNews website. www.usnews. com/education/best-colleges/payingfor-college/articles/2012/06/12/ save-money-by-attending-tuition-freecolleges to a rigorous program of study in lieu of the mainstream high school curricula. If accepted to this program, the student does not attend his regular high school but moves right into the community college of his choice—for free. According to the official Early College website this program is available in 28 states and the District of Columbia. Many similar programs may be found by doing an Internet search for “early college + state name.”

College Level Examination Program

For the student proficient in any given field of study, the CLEP test may be a significant way to save some money. Accepted by over 2,900 colleges nationwide, these tests measure what a person may know in a particular area whether from high school study or life experience. CLEP tests exist for over 30 areas of study such as history and social sciences, composition and literature, science and mathematics, business, and foreign languages. The tests contain mostly multiple choice questions, take 90 minutes to complete, and cost $77. “If the college accepts your CLEP scores, you do not have to pay for the credits for

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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the corresponding courses,” said LeAnn Wakeman, whose daughter saved almost $800 by taking one test.

Choose an Alternative Route

Rachel Poling graduated from college at the age of 19 with no debt. According to an article on Thriving in the 21st Century, she used CLEP tests and the coaching service of CollegePlus to help her design her own course of study. In the end, everything transferred to one school which granted her a degree in music. Another option to consider is to enroll in one of the 12 colleges in the United States that offer a free education. (See Sidebar) These schools obtain their funding through various means and some require a work/ study program.

Don’t Go

College graduates are some of the hardest hit from the recent recession. Leaving the academic setting with tens of thousands of dollars in debt, in 2011 almost two million graduates could not find jobs using their newly earned degrees—or requiring any degree for that matter. Forced to take jobs that require no skill and pay $10/hour or less, many young adults are forced to move back in with their parents just to survive. These statistics cause one to question whether a college degree is necessary at all. Before enrolling your child in a college or university, discuss the following questions with her: • Do you need a college degree to do what you want to do with your life? • Is there a demand for employees in the field you want to pursue? • Will a job in your field pay enough upon entry to repay any college debt within a couple years? • Is there anything else that you would be happy doing?

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 TR A D ITION A L W OR SHIP 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 AM SU N D AY SC HOOL 9: 45 AM THE W ELL 11: 00 AM

www.prattvillemethodist.org

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If paying for your kids’ college education has you up at night, take a look at some of these options and see what you think. Perhaps you can keep your child from being one of the 66% of college grads that enter the workforce deeply in debt—and moving back in with her parents. mp Carol Alexander is a contributing writer.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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11U Dirtbags Participate In Auburn Tournament

Thirty-four of the best baseball teams from Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi and Florida participated in the USSSA Alabama Super NIT May 17-19 in Auburn. After a disappointing loss Friday night, the Dirtbags played well on Sunday and finished fourth overall. In Sunday’s bracket play, the Dirtbags first faced the Carrollton (Ga.) Renegades. Behind the bat and arm of Payne Griffin, the Dirtbags easily won 9-6 in a game that was not as close as the score. Griffin got things started off with a grand slam home run in the top of the first inning. Later, Jackson Blair added a home run to ice the game. Ty Singleton had two hits and Caison Long added a double. Griffin threw all five innings, scattering nine hits, striking out one and surrendering no walks. In game two Sunday, the Dirtbags cruised past the Huntsville Patriots 5-1. Singleton threw a complete game, striking out three and only allowing three hits. Singleton had two hits and Cole McWhorter had a triple. Will Aaron added a double. In game three, the Dirtbags faced Panama 2013 (Miami, Fla.). McWhorter threw three great innings before being replaced due to pitch count. McWhorter allowed only three hits and struck out three. With the Dirtbags trailing 2-0 in the top of the fourth inning, they put together a furious rally. Aaron led off with a walk, followed by singles from Griffin, Long and Copeland Hilyer to plate two runs. However, the Dirtbags could not push across any more. A run in the Panama half of the fourth sealed the win for the Florida squad as time expired with the Dirtbags having recorded two outs. The Dirtbags’ record for their 11U year stands at 39-18, with six first-place finishes and four runners-up finishes in 15 tournaments. Payne Griffin is shown. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

While the excitement and mood are normally upbeat at The Family Karate Center, June is a time of sadness as we have to say goodbye to our military students. Leaving us this summer are Aliia Woodworth, who tested for her black belt with us in May, Gavin and Maddie McKinney, Connor Melton, and many other students in the Family Karate Center’s Tiny Tiger Program. New families coming to the school will be greeted with an Open House in July that has a host of freebies for all new military families! Call 277-4911 or 220-9319 today to earn $25 for any new student you refer to sign up with our school. In addition, the Student Report Card Challenge ended the school year with great results! Parents heard about the new program at Family Karate Center and took some free classes to see if their child’s grades would truly come up in a six-week period. Ds and Cs all went up to Bs and As and teachers as well as parents were proud to see the positive changes in their child’s grades. All report cards are on the wall at Family Karate Center so anyone can drop in the school to see just what applying yourself with great study habits can do! Call Master Carole Smith at Family Karate Center today to get your child started in a new direction to an A and B report card!

www.montgomeryparents.com

Simple Celebrations from A to Z

by Heather Lee Leap

vite guests with a welcome letter to Hogwarts or break out the top hats and card tricks.

Bowling: With or

without bumpers, it means casual fun that keeps everyone moving. On site food allows parents to relax – just bring the cake to celebrate your next big day.

Clowning around: Face paint, juggling

and dressing up. Kids can create their own acts and entertain one another.

Donation to a cause: In lieu of gifts, request that guests contribute funds to an organization the birthday child is passionate about. Develop a theme around the cause, such as a pet theme for an animal shelter donation. Extraterrestrial explorations: Is there life on Mars? Plan a space-themed party for your future astronaut.

Fairy tale theater: Raid the dress-up

bin for costumes, clear a space for a stage and let the kids enact their favorite stories. Simple, familiar tales mean everyone www.montgomeryparents.com

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Struggling to come up with a fresh idea for your child’s next party? Bigger isn’t always better, and a party shouldn’t cut into your college savings fund. Get creative, be inspired and make one or more of the following ideas your own.

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26 Themes for Your Child’s Next Birthday knows the story and can embellish at will without a script.

Golf, in miniature: Get outside and

laugh as your group makes its way around the mini-golf green.

Hawaiian luau: Eat pineapple and serve fruit punch in tall glasses with tiny umbrellas. Find leis at your local party store.

Ice Cream truck: Did you know you

can arrange to have them come directly to your home? Call them up, set a date and time and let the birthday child have first pick for a treat.

Jammies: If you’ve been putting off that

much-requested sleepover, now is the time to say yes to pizza, popcorn and late-night giggling.

Kitchen creations: Seek out local cook-

ing classes for children. Most locations that teach classes also offer party packages. 56

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relaxed party, bring cake and a picnic to your neighborhood playground.

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Music for all: Create shakers or rain

Local park fun: For a low-budget,

sticks from beans, paper tubes and masking tape. Dance to favorite tunes, sing and march around the block with your creations and other rhythm instruments.

Nature hike: Have a slice of cake at the trailhead and then explore the landscape. Party favors can include bug boxes and small magnifying glasses. Obstacle course: Get creative in your back yard with hula hoops, old cardboard boxes, benches and anything else you have lying around. Kids can climb, jump and crawl over, under and around. Time their circuit as part of a friendly competition. Older kids will have as much fun running the course as they will creating and improving it. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Puppets: Make sock puppets with but-

ton eyes or design simple stick puppets. Read a short story or fable for inspiration and kids can work together to create their own puppet show.

Quidditch anyone? All you need is a

wild imagination, hula hoops for goals, a soccer ball for the quaffle, smaller soft balls for bludgers and a speedy runner for the snitch.

Rock climbing or bouldering: Head to a rock gym to learn new skills together and get moving. Science experiments: Instead of the

usual party crafts, take chances, get messy and explore the laws of physics or the states of matter. Find books of experiments at your local library.

Tea party: Fancy cups and fancy food are just the beginning. Dress up, wear hats and invite guests to bring their favorite doll or teddy bear to tea. Uniquely you: What does your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream party look like? How can the theme reflect something special about what is important to your child or your family. Make it happen.

Volunteer for a cause: One child volunteering at the food bank or animal shelter with her family may not feel like she is accomplishing much. Invite a group of her friends to join her for a work party and her gift will grow exponentially. Water fun: Rent the party room at your local pool for a splashing good time.

X-men and friends: A superheroes theme can include capes, masks and feats of daring do, well-supervised, of course.

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Yard games: Time to teach your kids

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Zip line: You know your kids have been asking for this. If you have the space, install one in your back yard and let the flying begin. mp

and their friends all the old favorites. Croquet, badminton, bocce and horseshoes will keep a crowd entertained and active all afternoon.

Heather Lee Leap is a freelance writer and mom. Her favorite parties involve active kids, ingenuity and ice cream.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

www.montgomeryparents.com

2013 River Region

CAKES/ FINGER FOOD • Bruster’s Ice Cream & Yogurt: 272-7369, 6835 Vaughn Road and 239-7004, 9182 Boyd Copper Parkway. Select from 8” round cake or 9x12 cake Choose ice cream and one of the cake flavors. Pick a rich middle layer of fudge or caramel. All cakes are “iced” with fresh vanilla ice cream. For pies, choose from fresh ice cream over a thick, rich layer of fudge, caramel, marshmallow, or your favorite topping. All in your choice of Oreo or Graham Cracker Crust. We also have pies available. • Cake Designs: 288-6900, 3651 Debby Dr. in LeCroy Village. Specialty cakes all with professional decorating. Specialize in children’s birthday parties. Closed on Sunday and Monday.

• Cupcake Couture

(334) 356.3040, 2721 Bell Road Over 100 cupcake flavors, some liquored based, to choose from. We also offer a large variety of baked items such as: macaroon, Oreo tops, chocolate dipped rice crispy treats and cake pops. Please visit us in store or on Facebook at Cupcake-Couture.

• Cupcakes by Tish

334-625-0999, 1940 Mulberry Street or 334-356-5292,

www.montgomeryparents.com

Party Planner

7276 East Chase Parkway. Specializing in gourmet cupcakes for all occasions. Wide variety of Daily Flavors listed on our website. 48 hours advanced notice for orders placed that are not on daily menu. Please visit us at www. cupcakesbytish.com. • Dairy Queen: 244-9490, 6120 Atlanta Hwy. Chocolate and vanilla ice cream, and chocolate crunch. 8” round $19.99, 10” round $21.99, sheet cakes $30.99. All can be personalized at no additional charge. • GiGi’s Cupcakes: 356-3737, 7918 Vaughn Road. Nothing makes a special day unforgettable like a custom cupcake creation from Gigi’s. Special selection offered every day of the week. You may order online at our website and pick up at the store or view our daily menu online. http://www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/montgomeryalabama • Great American Cookie Co. at Eastchase: 356-8111, 7048 Eastchase Pkwy. Choose from 16” round for $24.99, and large Rectangular for $32.99. • ICBY: 271-5944, 4339 Atlanta Hwy. Birthday Pies made of any flavor yogurt. You may choose from various decorations and designs. Please call for flavors and pricing.

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• Liger’s Bakery: 288-6550, 3040 McGehee Rd. Open Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday, 6:30 a.m. - 4p.m. Any flavor birthday cake, round or sheet, decorated with flowers, fruit, etc. We also have cookies, cupcakes and sandwiches available. Cake prices start at $25 and up. • Original Great American Cookie Co: 271-1900, Eastdale Mall. Up to 13 different varieties of cookies: 12” round $18.99, 16” round $24.99, sheet cookie $33.99.

ENTERTAINMENT • Big Green Bus

The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. Many elements of gymnastics are combined into one fun filled hour on board the Big Green Bus! Our party includes a zip-line, tumbling mats, monkey bar, rock wall, slides, tunnels, beam, bar, vault, rings, parachute games, and more! We will introduce your child to the wild and crazy world of gymnastics. The birthday child will receive a Big Green Bus shirt! Goody bags are included in the prices. To schedule your party, call Amber Holley at 334324-4628, or visit our website at www.biggymbus.com.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

• Big Red Fire Truck

A member of the Big Green Bus Family. Our one hour party package includes: Children (ages 2 and up) enjoy the excitement of climbing on board and exploring a real working fire truck, inside and out, turn on sirens and flashing lights, Try on realistic fire fighter gear including pants, jacket suspenders, hats and fire extinguishers, Firefighter themed games, Fire safety lesson, Birthday child and parent get to ride around the neighborhood in the firetruck and turn on the lights and sirens, Fire extinguisher water guns for summer parties, Birthday child gets a Big Red Fire Truck shirt, and Firetruck themed goodies for up to 15 guests. Please call Jeff for more information at 334-868-9144 or visit us at www.biggymbus.com and click on the Big Red Firetruck link. • DJ at Large: 260-9732. Offers a variety of music plus karaoke and light shows for your child’s party. Video parties with 8 or 12 ft. screens and popular videos. Bubble parties offered as well. We can also provide the building for the party for an extra charge. Provides age appropriate music and will censor music to your discretion. Please call for pricing. “We put you first.” Email: DJ@AtLarge. com Website: www.DJatLarge.com.

• Dynamite Magic & Balloons

270-1234, Visit www.dynamitemagicandballoons.com. Helium tank rentals (varying prices and sizes). Balloon decorations. Costumed characters available. Please visit our website to see the characters we have to offer. Characters do a 20 minute show with several songs and deliver balloons. Magic & clown Shows available. • Fontaine Entertainment: 514-4457. Visit www. fontaineentertainment.com. “We are serious about your fun.” Offer DJ sound, light shows, karaoke, balloon decorations and theme decorations for birthday parties, corporate events, civic events, weddings, etc. Three hr. minimum.

• K & S DJ Services: 361-5161. Website: www.knsdjservice.com Email: dj4hire@kns-djservice.com. Over 20 years experience offering entertainment music, interactive games and party props for all ages. 2 disc jockeys for every party/ event. Call for more details. • Kindermusik of Montgomery: 271-3264 or Hallhome96@aol.com. Travel to party location. 30 minutes of music class for $50. Several themes to choose from. All instruments provided.

• Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters: Call Charles Renfroe at 280-3001. Invite Party Ponies to come to your home for very special birthday entertainment.

• Rolling Video Games of Alabama: 334-272-0028 or 855-844-GAME. We bring the party to you! A climate controlled, customized, self powered, mobile video game theatre. Now offering pizza with 2 hours party game package. Please visit us at www.rollingvideogames.com. • RockStar Parties and Events: Gina Brewer, 3996962. DJ and Staged events. Stage and lights available. Available for any type of event. Visit us on facebook at www.facebook.com/rockstarevent. • Trent McFarland ~ Cowboy: 558-3809. Professional rodeo cowboy with Old Yeller (famous dog) and Blue Rocket (gentle horse) offers guaranteed fun and entertainment for all ages with trick and fancy roping, whip-cracking bull whips, horse rides, and cowboy piñata. Available for birthday parties and all occasions. Ask about our special birthday party favors.

EQUIPMENT / GAME RENTALS • Arrow Rents: 277-0463, 5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery. Tents, tables, chairs, carnival equipment, fans, and bounce rides. All sorts of themed decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. Provide great selection and even better prices. “Your one stop party shop.”

• Bradley’s Events & Décor

(334) 220.6236; Bradley’s Events & Décor provides unique and innovative décor for all occasions. Please visit us at wwwbradleysevents.com or call for more information. • Brendle Rentals: 279-7368, 485 N. East Blvd. Party supplies. Inflatable jumping units: (space walk). Whale obstacle course (50 ft. long inflatable course with slides). Obstacle courses and other rides, carnival games, slide ,bungee run, tents and train. We setup at City parks and provide insurance. Website: www.brendlerentals.com. • Moonwalk Montgomery: 277-2351. Moonwalks, Giant slides, Interactive inflatable, Obstacle Courses, Rides, Rock-Climbing wall, and much, much more. Rentals for special events. Visit www.moonwalkofmontgomery.com.

• Playtime Rentals

285-5444. We have a huge selection of bounce houses, slides and jumpers for your party. Call for rates and dates. Please visit www.playtimeinc.org

• Space Walk of Montgomery

334-273-0204, What do you want to celebrate today? Set ups for Birthday Parties, Daycare Events, Community/ civic Events, School Carnivals and Sporting Events. We offer inflatable Space Walks, Water Slides, Obstacle Courses, Combos, and much more.

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Remember that feeling of gliding around a roller skating rink as a kid? Having a birthday party at Looney’s Super Skate has been a family tradition since 1941 when Pleas Looney began the business as Looney’s Skating Rink right here in Montgomery. Call us at 334-281-1032 to book your next memory. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

www.montgomeryparents.com

• The Spacewalker, Allen Bowen

546-8116. We are a locally owned family business. New inflatable cinemas rental. We have a variety of moon walks, slides, games, slide combos, obstacle courses, giant water slides, inflatable tents and inflatable rock climbing wall. We also rent tables, tents, generators, chairs and concession machines. Costume characters are also available: Sponge Bob, Dora, Elmo and Spiderman. We now offer balloons. We offer monthly specials. Please visit our website at www.thespacewalker.com . “You supply the people, we supply the fun.”

LIMOUSINES • Touch of Class Limousine: 284-2673. Carry up to 14 passengers at a time. Can pick up kids and ride them around or take them for pizza, etc. and then back home. These limos have all the extras for a fun time - red carpet, DVD for movies, a Birthday sign! Call for details.

PAPER GOODS/ DECORATIONS/ INVITATIONS • Arrow Rents: 277-0463, 5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery. All sorts of theme decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. We provide a better selection. “Your one stop party shop.” • Brendle Rentals: 260-5568, 485 North Eastern Bypass, Montgomery’s Oldest Party Supply Store. Balloons, piñatas, party goods. Decorating themes available are fish, luau, western, fiestas, firemen, iridescent heart, gymnastics, ballerina, smiley face, train, patriotic, and sports. Party favors and birthday bags now available.

• Capital City Copy Shop: 279-8820, 2701 Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery, fax services available. • Jo’s Hallmark: 271-0539, 7842 Vaughn Rd. (on the corner of Vaughn and Taylor Rd) Paper/party goods, gifts, invitations, and an assortment of cards. • Party City: 409-0901, 2095 Eastern Blvd. A one-stop party store that provides a wide selection of merchandise at everyday low prices. Discounts up to 50% off party ensembles. • Sunday Dinner: 272-7000, 5455 Atlanta Hwy. Plates, cups, chafing dishes, large quantity food items. Open Sunday thru Monday.

PARTY PLANNERS • Academy Events and Catering: 318-3047, 60 Commerce Street, Montgomery. Our goal is to exceed our customers expectations. Our specialties are our cakes and floral. Let us cater your special events with our own facility available for rent. • Personal Touch Wedding and Catering: 279-6279, 9920 Wares Ferry Rd. Complete party planning. Call for more information.

PRINTED INVITATIONS • Capital City Copy Shop: 279-8820, 2701 Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pickup, delivery and fax services available.

• Creative Printing: 281-1315, 2501 East Fifth Street. Everything is custom made for that extra special birthday. • FedEx Office: 277-1477, 2240 East Blvd. in Promenade North. Full color banners and our custom design and print. Website: www.fedex.com. • Kwik KopyShop: 244-0444, 4148 Carmichael Rd. Print custom invitations. Wide variety of designer invitations for theme parties such as pool, slumber, tea, zoo, carousel, western, bowling, skating, dancing, etc. 8 1/2 x 11 designed papers are available for you to do it yourself. Fast turn around. • The Paper Lady: Specializing in reasonably priced invitations, birth announcements, calling cards, thank you notes and more. Also an authorized Sweet Pea Designs dealer. To view the full selection of papers visit www. thepaperlady.net.

UNIQUE GIFTS FOR KIDS AND ADULTS • Alabama Shakespeare Festival Gift Shop: 271-5358, Blount Cultural Park. Theatre-related gifts. Open during performance hours, one hour prior to show and through intermission. Contact box office for show times. 271-5353. • Barb’s on Mulberry: 269-BARB (2272), 1923 Mulberry Street. Will personalize lots of gift items. Choose from a wide variety of unique and personalized gifts. Closed on Mondays. We now do birthday parties. Call for more details or visit our website at www.barbsonmulberry.com

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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• Capitol City Comics: 215-3335, 7933 Vaughn Rd. (Festival Plaza). Large selection of comics, gaming cards, and statues. Military and college student discounts.

• Comics and Cards Trading Post: 272-1787, 7968Vaughn Rd. Located in the Sturbridge Plaza. Talk with Jim or Jason for your comics or sports trading cards needs.

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• Embellish: 334-649-2022, 7056 Atlanta Hwy, Large selection of items to be monogrammed. Book bags, Scout bags, Brush Fire T-shirts, jewelry, tumblers and many, many more. • Jan Beale’s U Name It: 272-9878, 5350-A Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery. We specialize in monogrammed and personalized gifts for all occasions. You’ll find exceptional gift items for baby, children, and adults. Many of our items can be monogrammed or personalized, adding that very special touch to your gift. Please visit us on our website at www.younameitinfo.com or come visit us in the shop. • Jo’s Hallmark: 271-0539. 7842 Vaughn Rd (Shopping center on the corner of Vaughn and Taylor Rd). Large selection of Birthday cards, wrapping paper, frames, unique gifts, collectibles, and fine accessories. • The Kazoo Toys: 244-4199, 7850 Vaughn Rd. (down from Stein Mart) A full service toy store that offers a truly unique toy-shopping experience. Complimentary gift -wrapping available. Please visit us on facebook. • Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Gift Shop: 2445763. Blount Cultural Park. You will find a wide assortment of unique gifts for that special someone.

• My Kids Attic

270-1456, 401 Coliseum Blvd. Eastbrook Shopping Center. We offer something for the everything in your life. Specialty gifts, home décor, candles, jewelry, pewter, children’s couture, vinyl and monogrammed gifts. Please visit us on facebook at The Shoppes of My Kids Attic. • Old Alabama Town Gift Shop: 240-4500, 301 Columbus St. Regional and old-fashioned gift items. • Periwinkles: 277-3570, 8189 Vaughn Road. Make your gift decisions from a large selection of popular items in our store. • The Goat Hill Museum Store: 353-4969, located in Alabama’s State Capitol Building. Civil War, Civil Rights- Books, Local Artwork, Toys, Collectibles, Ornaments, Music, Videos, Cookbooks, Pottery, Souvenirs, and Unique Southern Gifts. Union Street Entrance. Open Mon.-Fri, 8:00 - 4:30 and Sat. from 9-4 (Sat. please enter through the Union St. entrance).

• The Montgomery Zoo Gift Shop

240-4900, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Off the Northern Blvd. Animal-related toys, shirts, masks, jewelry. Great gifts for the animal lover. • The Turtle Shell: 358-0902, 160 W. Main St., Prattville. Educational items including reading games, room decorations, math workbooks, gifts for birthdays, science kits, puzzles and music. • The Velvet Pumpkin: 273-9293, 8185 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Annex. Beautiful selection of unique Clothing, Vera Bradley, frames and bath items. • Things Remembered: 271-9509, 7056 Eastchase Pkwy. Personalized gifts for all occasions. Name badges, monogramming on blankets, and engraving on items bought elsewhere. Please visit us online at www.thingsremembered.com.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

• Tucker Pecan Company: 262-4470, 350 N. McDonough St., Montgomery. Come by and visit us for a unique selection of gifts, tumblers, jewelry and more. Please visit our website at www.tuckerpecan.com. • Two Blessings: 647-1745, 8127 Vaughn Rd. Owned and operated by the Faceless Angels line. Carries a unique selection of gifts for men, women and children. Please visit our facebook page at Two Blessings Gift Boutique.

YARD SIGNS • A to Z Signs, Occasional Yard Signs: 354-5189. Displays for any occasion. Birthday, birth announcements, weddings. 6 ft. wooden signs and inflatable signs like a stork, heart, birthday cake, buzzard, and palm trees. And you can fill your yard with props such as cows, smiley faces, hearts, penguins, baby bottles, buzzard, flamingo and more. www.atozsigns.org. • Flamingo-A-Friend: 279-3737. Choose from flamingos (assorted colors), smiley faces, cows & pigs, penguins, elephants, or footballs to fill your yard and surprise your birthday child when they awake. Also, a 4 ft. personalized sign with birthday message. Set up before 6:30 a.m. and clean up by 6 p.m. Please call for rates.

Looking for a Great Party Spot?

PLACES TO PARTY ARTISTIC • Abrakadoodle: 265-5758. Creative art fun for your child for his or her birthday party. Visit the website for more information. www.abrakadoodle.com. • Artistic Expressions: 365-8990, 2481 Pinnacle Way, Prattville. $65.00 party deposit get you party room, staff/staff members, personalized birthday plate for the party child. Day of party you only pay for what the children paint. . We now offer Parties to go and Home parties. Please call or visit our website for more details. Website: www. paintatartisticexpressions.com or visit us on facebook. • Corks n Canvas: 277-1041, 8113 Vaughn Rd. Offering painting parties to children ages 8 and up. With the help of the instructor, each guest creates their own party favor (a painting) to take home at the end of the event. Parties are approximately 2 hours in length, with a break to celebrate with a cake or cookie. Two packages are available. Check the packages and the painting options available on our website: www.corksandcanvas.net. Art parties for children younger than 8 are also available at our location through Abrakadoodle. For more information on parties for younger children, please contact Susan Parker at 265.5758. • Paint and Clay: (334) 819-4450, Karen Kornosky. Girls Tea Party--Each child will paint two tea cups and saucers, one to keep and one for the birthday girl. The birthday girl paints the tea pot and has a set of cups to treasure made by her friends. Other party themes available for boys and girls. Canvas parties are now available. Please visit our website: www.paintandclaystudio.com.

• P’zazz Art Studio

354-1975, 138 W. Main St., Downtown Prattville If you are looking for a unique place for a birthday party…then P’zazz is your place. Birthday Party Packages start at $175 for up to 12 children. $15 for each additional child. This includes the use of P’zazz for 2 hours, a 16x30 canvas for each guest, supplies, and instruction on how to paint a picture of your choice. Each child will leave

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with a completed painting as their party favor. Guests are allowed to bring in their own food and drink. We provide time for each and to open gifts. Please visit our website at www.prattville.pzazzart.com for more information.

PLACES TO PARTY BOWLING • BAMA Lanes Inc: 272-5423, 3020 Atlanta Hwy. Package A) $9.00 per child plus tax, 2 hour party, Full birthday party setup, shoe rental, bumpers, ice cream, soft drink, Happy Birthday bowling pin/balloon bouquet. Package B) $10.00 plus tax per child. Includes package #1 plus hotdog and chips. Package C) $12.00 plus tax per child. Includes Package 1 Plus 2 slices of Pizza. Six child minimum with a $20.00 deposit. Weekday, Weekend or Evening (subject to lane availability) • BAMA Lanes, Prattville: 358-8600, 1714 East Main St., Weekday Party Hours and Prices: Monday-Thursday 10:30 – 3:30 and Friday: 10:30 to 6 p.m. Package A: $59.95 for one lane (six children per lane), 1 1/2 hour party. Shoe rental, bumpers for ages 8 and under, ice cream, drink, birthday pin and a balloon bouquet. Package B: $69.95 per lane (six children per lane). As above, plus hot dog with chips. Weekend parties: Party Package A: $69.95 per lane. 2 hrs., shoe rental, bumpers, ice cream, drink, birthday pin and balloon bouquet. Package B: $79.95 per lane. As above, plus hot dog and chips. Six child minimum and $25 deposit required. • Brunswick Zone: 819-7171, 1661 Eastern Blvd. Birthday party package: Pkg A: $14.99 per child for 2 hour party, bowling, shoes, one pizza per 5 children, 1 pitcher of soda per 5 children, Paper goods, Printable invitations and thank you cards, festive balloon bouquet, Coupon for one free game of bowling for all party guests, Bowling pin sipper bottle for birthday kid and a party hero to host your party. Pkg B: $18.99 per child which includes everything in Pkg A plus a goodie bag for each child, $3.00 in

games tokens for each child, a glow necklace for each child and a real signature bowling pin for all of the party guests to sign. $25 deposit required.

PLACES TO PARTY GAMES • The Players Arcade: 272-1066. Eastdale Mall. $75 for 300 tokens. Party area for 1.5 hours. You bring food, drink, and table settings. Private parties also available.

PLACES TO PARTY GYMNASTICS / CHEER / DANCE • Big Green Bus

• Big Red Fire Truck

sirens and flashing lights, Try on realistic fire fighter gear including pants, jacket suspenders, hats and fire extinguishers, Firefighter themed games, Fire safety lesson, Birthday child and parent get to ride around the neighborhood in the firetruck and turn on the lights and sirens, Fire extinguisher water guns for summer parties, Birthday child gets a Big Red Fire Truck shirt, and Firetruck themed goodies for up to 15 guests. Please call Jeff for more info at 334-868-9144 or visit www. biggymbus.com and click on the Big Red Firetruck link.

• Montgomery Ballet

409-0522; info@montgomeryballet.org 2101 Eastern Boulevard, Ste. 223, Montgomery Parties hosted by Montgomery Ballet Professional Company Members. Have your very own Dance Class for your and your friends! Princess characters available! Call for details about price and dates available.

• Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection

277-1098, 3370 Harrison Road. We offer the best and most convenient venue for your child’s themed birthday party. We will help you customize the party and make it perfect and memorable. Parties start at $200 and up with themed parties such as Pretty Princess, Tumbling Toddlers, Disco, Hip-Hop, Disneymania, “I’m Thirteen,” Mardi Gras, Hannah Montana, ‘Hoe Down, Throw Down” and more. We also have space for dances, proms and ballroom parties for all ages. Visit our website at www.tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.com.

• United Gymstars

284-2244, 6100 Brewbaker Blvd., off Troy Hwy. Website: www.unitedgymstars.com. Gymnastics, trampoline, recreational activities, supervised games, and birthday party room. We provide the facility and activities; you provide the cake, decorations and food. Cost of $175 is for 15 guests and the birthday child. Call for more information.

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PLACES TO PARTY MARTIAL ARTS • Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center: 220-5835, 3179 Taylor Rd. (Sturbridge Shopping Center), Docarmo’s Birthday Bash. For $10.00 per child you get: Use of Docarmo’s facilities which means you don’t have to worry about the mess! A taekwondo Intro class. We send out the invitations for you. We provide a variety of FUN games for entertainment. You may bring in your own choice of food. Minimum of 10 children. Prices are based on 1.5 hour party on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday. Free lessons offered on all participants. www.trytkdfree.com

• Family Karate Center

277-4911, 8159 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Shopping Center. We now offer a Karate Kid Movie Birthday Party. We offer fun wholesome birthday parties at our facility. Included in our parties are 2 hours of jam-packed fun, including: each guest will receive a 1 month FREE pass to Stranger Danger, Free Stranger Danger Demonstration at every Birthday party. Ask Mom First, and the Bully Buster program. Birthday child and guests receive a FREE uniform. Kung Fu Panda Balance Beam, Fun and exciting coordination skills & drills, Board Breaking Contest, Samurai Frisbee, Ninja Ball Bounce, Power Ranger relays, SWAT (Student Winning Attitude Team) Team Exercises, STORM (Student Team of Role Models) Team Demonstration and Teen Team Demonstration Squad. Stranger Danger Child ID Packages provided so mom does not have to supply gift bags. Mother of Birthday child, Birthday child and guests receive gifts. Moms let Master Coker do all the work so moms can just show up and have fun. If Birthday child signs up for classes that day then the party is FREE. If any guest signs up for classes they get a free party. Parties for 2-4 year olds now offered. Unlimited guests.

• Fleming Martial Arts

4315 Atlanta Hwy., 277-5425. We have a 4,000 square foot facility for 1 ½ hours of fun. We provide the entertainment, tables and chairs and you provide the food, paper and utensils. Flat fee of $175. Call us to book your party. Please visit our website at www.flemingsmai.com. • NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville 334-590-3759, Hunter Hills Church, 330 Old Farm Lane N, Prattville; $150 for 1.5 hours. Karate fun and games. Parents provide paper products and cake and food. Please visit us at www.nextgenmartialarts.com. • Tiger Rock Taekwondo Plus: 244-9139, 2750 Bell Rd. All parties are held on Saturday. Party includes martial arts class with games and entertainment. Then kids have their own section to eat and open gifts. We provide the cake and table settings. Parents supply food and decorations. Please call for more information and pricing. Tables and chairs provided. Deposit of half down.

PLACES TO PARTY MISCELLANEOUS • Adventure Sports Aquatic Center

269-3483, 1546 East Ann Street. Website: www.adventuresports2.com. Indoor and outdoor pools, kiddie pool, grilling and picnic area. Price of $200 includes lifeguard for 20 children over 8 for two hours. You bring food and cake. Additional lifeguard it $25. Under age of 8 the limit is 16 per lifeguard. Call for details. • Antique Train Rides Call toll free 1-800-943-4490, Located in Calera, 60 miles north of Montgomery. Party takes place in the restored Amtrak car. Includes a 45 minute train ride

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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through the woods and by the interstate. Parents can set up party in our restored Amtrak car. Kids can also look through the old railroad yard. Hostesses are available but parents supply food and supplies. Theme parties available (Thomas the Train…etc.) Please call for dates and packages or visit www.hodrrm.org for birthday information. • Bell Road YMCA: 271-4343, 2435 Bell Rd. Contact Susan Eggering for parties for members. Can rent pool, building or both. Goodtimes Waterpark: $350 for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Bell Road Indoor Pool Complex: $250 for 2 hours includes lifeguards. Bell Road Outdoor Pool: $200 for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Adventure Room: $100 for 2 hours during business hours (2:30-4:30 p.m.) on Saturday. Please call for more information and availability. Inflatables party room at Goodtimes with eating area. Sat. & Sundays only. Please call Goodtimes for more information about Inflatables party at 279-8878. • Build a Bear Workshop: 1050 Eastdale Mall, 334279-6415. Our hours of operation are Monday- Saturday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Includes a party leader to keep your guests entertained. You set the price! Starting at just $10 per guest. Every scheduled party includes photo to remember your party, party favor for all party guests, awesome gift for guests of honor, printable invitations and thank-you cards at www. buildabear.com. Minimum of 6 guests for 1.5 hours. We are not licensed to serve food and beverages in our store. Please visit www.buildabear.com for those listings. • Carter Symone: 356-0754, 2856 Zelda Road in the Hillwood Festival. Website: www.cartersymone.com. Only at Carter Symone can you experience a premier private party! We create every girl’s fantasy birthday from ages 3 to 16. We offer your complete party for one great price! Party choices include English Tea, Rock

Star, Princess, Spa and much, much more. Pricing set for up to 10 children, this includes the birthday girl! We also offer ½ the guests for ½ the price…ask your reservation specialist. Check us out on the web for more information or give us a call today. Every girl is worth it! • East Branch YMCA: 272-3390, 3407 Pelzer Ave. Parties for members. Indoor and outdoor pools. Outdoor pool includes slide and splash pool. YMCA provides lifeguards for party. Contact Teri Galloway. • McWane Center, Birmingham: They do it all - cake, punch, ice cream, paper products and, if you like, goodie bags. If you want a special science demonstration while you celebrate, they can also provide that. Your group will party in one of the colorful party rooms, then take to the museum floor for a full day of hands-on science fun and discovery. For cost details and reservations, call (205) 714-8369 or visit our website: www.mcwane.org.

• Eastdale Mall Island Carousel: 270-2736

(located outside of Belks). 4 Tables available for you to set up. If you come early you can hold them. We can not reserve the tables. Child and 9 friends ride one time for FREE.

• Maya’s Dance & Fitness

322-0946; 136 Mendel Parkway, Montgomery Offering glow-in-the-dark birthday parties for kids ages 4-12 including a combination of Zumba movements from salsa, merengue, reggaeton, hip-hop and more designed just for kids. • Prattville East YMCA: 358-9622, 972 McQueen Smith Rd., Party room for members and non-members. Pool rental for members. Party room has a $20 deposit and is $175.00 for non-members and $125 for members. This includes 1 ½ hours of entertainment, hostess, sheet cake, cups, plates, napkins, silverware for 15 children.

Cost for each additional child is $2. Birthday child receives a free t-shirt. You provide ice, ice cream and drinks. Themed parties also available. Call for details.

• Pump It Up!

277-5678, 1029 Lagoon Business Loop, off the Northern Blvd. Website: www.pumpitupparty.com. We are on the 10 Best Birthday Parties list from Parents Magazine Nationally. Only at “The Inflatable Party Zone” can you enjoy a private, indoor party with giant interactive inflatable play structures. A Pump It Up party is a fun and unforgettable event for ages 2 to adult! We offer four party packages. Surf our website for more information, or give us a call. Don’t forget to bring your socks!

• Smiles Galore

269-2895, 130 South Maryland Street, Montgomery. We have been doing this for 14 years. Plans and hosts parties for children. Many themes to choose from. Dress up, crafts, canvas painting, Diva, pirates, banana split Sundaes, superhero party, cowboy party, Princess party, just to name a few. Also do Stuff-n-fluff, Stuff a purse, Noahsaurs and Fluff parties and Bella B Glamour workshop for girls. Set up and clean up is included. We do as much or as little as you like for us to do. All ages. One call takes care of all your party needs. Baby shower facilities also available. We host personal and affordable parties with your child’s name on our marquee out front for everyone to see. Visit us on the web at www.smilesgaloreinc.com. • Southeast YMCA: 262-6411, 3455 Carter Hill Rd. Rent facilities for parties for preschool to age 14. Available for members and non-members. Call for rates and information. • Splattered Woods Paintball: 334-300-2417, 2151 Cantelou Road, Montgomery, Al. Mobile paintball supply sales and service. We hose parties at your field or our location: Birthday Parties/Team Building/Youth Groups.

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We can build custom games to fit your needs. Friendly Christian sales and service. Please visit us at www.splatteredwoodspaintball.com for party packages available and more information.

• Wonder World Family Fun Center

127 North Memorial Drive, Prattville, 365-6600. Lasertag and Rollerskating parties available. Rollerskating, Arcade, Laser Tag, Snack Bar, Inflatables, Birthday Parties. Please call Debbie Brooks for details or visit our website at www.wonderworldfamilyfun.com.

PLACES TO PARTY OUTDOORS • Montgomery Zoo

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290-3727 or 546-3964, 566 Thornfield Dr., Millbrook. Gentle, experienced horses, easy trail and knowledgeable staff to assist beginners. Call today to reserve your party. • Surfside Water Park: 1-334-821-7873, Off I-85 in Auburn. Water park including 2 speed slides, 4 body flumes, wave pool, lazy river, kiddie pool with play area, beach volleyball, concessions, picnic area, lighthouse over Lazy River for climbing or laying out, and a Jungle Jim tube slide that empties into the Lazy River. Please visit our website for admission prices. Group rates are available. You bring the cake, table settings.

• Waterville, USA Water Park

251-948-2106, Highway 59 South, Gulf Shores www.watervilleusa.com; Waterville USA is a beautiful, fun and safe setting for your group outing. Our park offers something for everyone from the smallest tyke to adults -- fun for people of all ages! Waterpark Season (water and amusement parks open) . This season runs during the summer (last part of May, June, July, August) when both the Waterpark and Amusement Park are open. Amusement Park Season (waterpark closed). This season operates in the spring and late summer/fall when the Waterpark is closed. Our park is closed from October until March to take care of long term maintenance and new additions. House of Bounce however is available for parties all year long! • YMCA Camp Chandler: 567-4933,Wetumpka, on Lake Jordan 30 minutes from Montgomery. Great birthday idea for kids 5 to 15. Ten child minimum. Year-round activities such as climbing tower, high ropes, archery, riflery, volley ball, floor hockey, canoeing, fishing, peddle boats, arts and crafts, basketball, carnival games, hayrides, game room, boat rides, and water balloon wars. Seasonal activities include swimming, water skiing, sailing, The Blob and horseback riding. $15 per child. Price includes everything from balloons to a cake for 3 hours. Call JoAnn Williams for private party info. • Water World: Westgate Pkwy., Dothan, Ala. (334) 793-0368. We have a gigantic wavepool, a twisting triple flume slide, a heart pumping great white slide, and a kiddie area for little brother or sister. We also have an exciting video arcade packed with new games! You must have at least 8 guests coming to your party, and each person who comes into the park must pay the admission fee. A reservation and payment for at least 8 people must be received no later than one week prior to the party. Pkg A: Children $9.00, Adults $12, 2 tables reserved for your party. A balloon for each guest. T-shirt for birthday child. Visit from Aquaduck, the Water World mascot. Pkg B: Children $10, Adults $13, Includes all items in Package A, plus small fountain drink for each guest and push up

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

ice-cream for each guest. Free tube rental for birthday child and a party favor for each guest. Pkg C: Children $14, Adults $17, Includes all items in packages A & B, plus a kid’s meal combo. Please visit www.waterworlddothan.com for different party packages.

PLACES TO PARTY PARKS • Millbrook Memorial Center & Village Green Park: 285-6428, On Main Street and Grandview. Incredible wooden playground with castle, space shuttle, boat, etc. We have picnic tables and picnic shelter. First come first serve. Memorial Center rents for $200 for a one day rental. Handicap accessible facility. Call for more information. • Montgomery City Parks: 241-2300, Speak with Ann Huebner to reserve picnic shelters all day for Lagoon Park, Buddy Watson Park, Ida Belle Young Park, Oak Park, Gateway and AUM Park. Large shelters are $50 for all day and $25 for 1/2 day. Small shelters are $40 for full day and $20 for half day. All parks are first come first serve and open to the public. Make shelter reservations as early as possible. Pete Peterson Lodge in Lagoon Park is also available for rent and is air conditioned and heated. Price starts at $300 during week, and $400 on weekends for 4 hours. Gateway Lodge is $600 during the week and $800 on the weekend. Gateway has a caterer’s kitchen. This books fast so call early. Please visit www. montgomeryal.gov click on departments and then parks and recreations. • Prattville Parks: 361-3640. City park shelters are $25 for 4 hrs. & $50 for 8 hrs. Cooter’s Pond pavilions rent for $35 or $75 depending on which pavilion. The Doster Community Center: auditorium $350 for 10 hours, dining hall $200 for 10 hours. The kitchen with either one of these rooms is an additional $75.00. Upper Kingston Community Center rents for $200 for 10 hours. Call Department of Leisure Services to reserve. • Wetumpka Parks: 567-5147 for details on Gold Star Park (no rental fee if available), Jeanette Barrett Civic Room in Gold Star Park rents for individual $40, business $50 and church $25. Martin Luther King Recreation Center (both require a $300 cash deposit that is refundable) 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. for $115. Civic Center in Wetumpka, large room with kitchen, $500 refundable deposit, $125 cleaning fee and $1075 rental for 10a.m. until 12a.m. Call 567-3002 for details about Fort Toulouse/ Jackson Park, off US 231, Wetumpka 165-acre park area includes nature trails, campgrounds, picnic pavilion, museum, boat launch, and fort. Would be a great place for either a Pocahontas Party or a Wild West Party.

PLACES TO PARTY RESTAURANTS • Cheezie’s Pizza: 8125 Decker Lane, 244-9496 and 2762 Bell Rd., 356-5423. Large Cheese or Pepperoni Pizzas are $4.99. • Chick Fil A: 271-0104, 2682 Eastern Blvd and Eastchase Pkwy., Montgomery. Playground and reserved section. Kids meal and toy, ice cream and visit from Cow (mascot) on request. $6 per child. Every child gets a balloon. • Chuck E. Cheese’s: 281-9290, 2940 E. South Blvd. Reserve Birthday Parties online at www.chuckecheese. com. We offer several special party packages. Please visit our website for pricing and available options.

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• Cici’s Pizza: 386-3086, 981 Ann St. Cost by age,. Ages 10 and under, $4.38 per person; adults $7.90 including your drink of choice + plus tax. You bring cake and Cici’s does the rest.

PLACES TO PARTY SKATING

• Domino’s Pizza: All Locations, Offers discounted packages for at home parties. Call a location near you for current prices.

277-2088. 10 or more people. Free birthday invitations and reserved table outside the rink. You bring cake and everything you need. Please call for pricing.

• Little Caesars: 288-1515, 3004 McGehee Rd. our new location at 5853 Atlanta Hwy, 277-4595, Montgomery. Order to pick up for parties or large gatherings. Large cheese or sausage or Large pepperonis for $5.00. • McDonald’s: Call individual stores for cost and details. Most offer similar packages. Cost varies slightly. Includes a Ronald McDonald cake, hamburger kid’s meal, ice cream, hostess, and party favors are supplied. Access to PlayLand after the party. • Nancy’s Italian Ice: 356-1403, 7976 Vaughn Rd. (Sturbridge Shopping Center) Ice and cupcakes available for purchase. • Papa John’s Pizza: Montgomery & Prattville. All locations offer discounts on pizzas on large orders. Call for details. • Pizza Hut: 265-6000. Offered at all Montgomery locations as well as Prattville, Wetumpka and Clanton. Costs vary. Call for details. Other: Many local restaurants will treat the birthday person to a free dessert and possibly sing Happy Birthday. Call your favorite restaurant for details.

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• Eastdale Mall Ice Palace

• Looney’s Skating Rink

281-1032, 3541 McGehee Rd. Wide variety of party packages for all different ages. Please call for details and pricing. All parties require a non-refundable deposit at booking. You may bring cake, big cookie & ice cream only. Our friendly staff will setup, serve and cleanup your party. Any of the private party packages can be customized to meet your needs. Popular private party options: The Roll-A-Round & Bounce-About Party is a nonskating party for young children who bring in riding toys and play and ride around on the skating floor or play in the inflatables. Age-appropriate music and games are played while flashing, colorful lights and kiddie videos entertain the children. The Ultimate Skating Blowout Party can be tailored to any age and includes play on the redemption games, party favor bags, glow sticks, and lots of interaction with the DJ who will play the hottest music and lead you and your guests in the coolest games while the neon lasers flicker and flash all over the floor. The Broom Ball Birthday Bash is very popular with the guys and includes lots of special stuff for the Birthday Person as well as party favor bags for the guests. Looney’s provides the brooms and the ball! They explain the rules and show you how to play while Top 40 Hits play and laser lights flash! All private party packages include 1-1/2 hour rink rental, invitations, admission, plates, napkins, sporks, cups, drinks during cake serving time, popcorn, and Stuff Shop party favor bags…all you do is bring a cake or big cookie. Pizza Party Packages are also available. www.looneysskate.com

• Wonder World Family Fun Center

PLACES TO PARTY TEA / DRESS-UP • Paint and Clay: (334) 819-4450, Karen Kornosky. Girls Tea Party--Each child will paint two tea cups and saucers, one to keep and one for the birthday girl. The birthday girl paints the tea pot and has a set of cups to treasure made by her friends. Other party themes available for boys and girls. Canvas parties are now available. Please visit our website: www.paintandclaystudio.com.

• Smiles Galore

269-2895, 130 South Maryland Street, Montgomery. We have been doing this for 14 years. Plans and hosts parties for children. Many themes to choose from. Dress up, crafts, canvas painting, Diva, pirates, banana split Sundaes, superhero party, cowboy party, Princess party, just to name a few. Also do Stuff-n-fluff, Stuff a purse, Noahsaurs and Fluff parties and Bella B Glamour workshop for girls. Set up and clean up is included. We do as much or as little as you like for us to do. All ages. One call takes care of all your party needs. Baby shower facilities also available. We host personal and affordable parties with your child’s name on our marquee out front for everyone to see. Visit us on the web at www.smilesgaloreinc.com. If your business was not listed in this year’s Birthday Party Planner, please email editor@montgomeryparents. com with all the information and we’ll include you in our next Birthday Issue!

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

It’s Your Move!

Relocating with Kids

Summer Birthday Strategies --Summer relocation and kid’s birthday parties don’t always mix. Here are tactics for helping your child celebrate, despite a summer move.

Nickell, a syndicated parenting columnist and blogger. “But once you are there, you’ll have the park for playtime and wide-open fields for games like relay races, water balloon toss and scavenger hunts.”

As a child, I always wished for a summer birthday. Pool parties seemed so much Party Late more fun than what was available during Postpone summer birthday parties until the wishy-washy weather of early Octothe next school year is underway. This is a ber. I was thrilled when I found out I was great opportunity for kids to build relationexpecting a July baby, and I was planning ships with new classmates. It’s also a great HER pool parties before I ever met her. way to meet other parents in your new Instead of the summer soirees I location. dreamed of, I find myself scrambling to find enough friends to attend Tikkido.com, created and owned by former Air Force child any kind of birthday party for my daughter. Nikki Wills, is an online resource that provides inspiration for As a military child, she entertaining and includes do-it-yourself tutorials to help readers has spent the majority of throw great parties with a small budget. Here are Wills’ tips for her birthday days moving planning party activities that are sure to keep (kid) guests happy. into a new home in a new --Have a craft or individual activity at the beginning of the town. party to keep kids entertained as other guests arrive. Offer ageSo what’s a parent appropriate activities like coloring stations, a bouncy house, a to do? I called in experts photo booth, DIY glitter tattoos or simple art projects. to help, and here’s what I --Begin structured activities after the guests arrive. “I only discovered. like to schedule a few [structured activities],” says Willis. “A treasure hunt or relay race and a piñata, for example.” Party Early --Leave time for free play. “[For one party], I planned an The last few weeks elaborate balloon obstacle course. The three-year-olds liked it,” of the school year are says Wills. “But you know what they loved? Popping the balloons a great time to get kids after we were done with the game...” together to celebrate.

Party Large on a Budget

“My daughter’s birthday is in August, so we almost always have her party the last week of school,” says mom Melissa Ross. Celebrating at the end of the school year is also a great way for your child to say goodbye to friends before relocating. Remember to share contact information with friends so you can keep in touch. Party Planner: Meet at the park. “Most parks have free picnic tables and shelter; you may just have to arrive early to reserve them,” says Robert “Daddy” www.montgomeryparents.com

Party Planner: Host an ice cream social. “Let guests make their own sundae and then play games that involve their topping choices,” says Nickell. “For example, find one person who put Gummy bears on their ice cream and ask them what their favorite animal is. These kind of human scavenger hunts are a great way to meet new people.”

Keep it Small

“We do a pretty big family event for 68

each child, and sometimes bring along a friend,” says mom Gina Gismondi. It’s easier to work around vacation and relocation schedules when dealing with a small group. Party Planner: Throw a sprinkler party. “Hook up the sprinkler or a slip-n-slide . . . Throw in some ‘wet’ activities like water balloons and squirt guns, and it becomes good, clean fun,” says Nickell.

Celebrate with Family

“Our daughter gets to pick the day’s activity and the three meals we eat that day (look out for ice cream for breakfast before the eggs, ack!), and that creates the distraction we need and she doesn’t question it,” says mom Sarah Mitchell. Summer is also a time when extended families come together for reunions. Host a family party so your child can celebrate with cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. Party Planner: Plan a baseball or kickball party. “Skill and numbers aren’t a problem here. Invite as many kids as you want,” says Nickell. “Make ‘team t-shirts’ your party favors.” This party works for family reunions, too. Gather up the cousins and play ball.

Alternate Years

“We only do a birthday party every other year,” says mom Chrysta Dickens. “So for our summer birthday kid, we would go off cycle for a year if we suspected we might move the next year and had a party while they were still with their friends...” Party Planner: Create a Drive-In Movie. “Hang a sheet on your house, get a projector and set up the movie,” says Nickels. “Spread out blankets for guests to sit on and serve popcorn. Fill coolers with drinks.”

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Julie Steed is a writer, mom and military spouse. She’s getting ready to move her family for the 11th time in 14 years.

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‘Pearl Girl’ Performs Service with a Smile

Khloe Surles performed community service at the Pink and Pearls For Girls Open House Night. She took out the trash, swept the floor, and wiped down all the tables. Surles says she helps her mommy at home too. She did a fantastic job completing her duties. If you would like to become a member, please contact Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091.

NextGen Martial Arts Celebrates Testing and Showcase

NextGen Martial Arts celebrated its Black Belt Testing and Showcase on May 19. Four students tested for Cho Dan (first-degree belt), one earned Cho Dan (first-degree) certification, and one earned Sam Dan (third-degree) certification. The day began with a physical test including all forms, kicks, sparring, and self-defense for the testing students. A symbolic candle ceremony using NextGen students from each belt level detailed the growth experienced in the life of a martial artist from beginner to black belt. Then testing students performed original creative forms, a choreographed self-defense routine, and demonstrated board breaking techniques for the audience. The certifying students demonstrated skills with sword and board breaking as well. Mr. Powell (assistant instructor) performed board breaking and various techniques in weapon self-defense. The Montgomery Parents I July 2013

day concluded with presentations of certificates and belts to students followed by a time of fellowship with friends and family. Master Todd Newsom, Chief Instructor, offers classes to meet a variety of needs. For more info,call 590-3759 or visit www.nextgenmartialarts.com to view information on schedules, trial classes, location and class times. (Photo courtesy of Jennifer’s Photo Box) 69

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Elastic is Not Our Friend by Marla Cilley

Clutter has a way of slipping into our world without us even noticing. It piles up on our hotspots, in our dresser drawers and on our backsides. Yes, you know that very personal clutter that we collect because we over-indulge. All clutter is a result of over- indulging; too many clothes, too many shoes, too much stuff! What do we do with our clutter? We try to disguise it by putting it in pretty little boxes, baskets and plastic tubs.

Just because we have contained it does not make it any less clutter. In fact, if you need to find something those clutter containers throw up all over your home. In our haste to camouflage our clutter we don’t get rid of it, we just cover it up. We do this with our bodies, too! Think of it this way! Let’s say our favorite jeans get a little too tight. Instead of eliminating those sodas and sweet treats for a week we reach for our fat clothes. You know the ones that are hiding in your drawer for those bloated “that time of the month” days. The ones with drawstrings and elastic. Has wearing these clothes become part of your daily routine? Elastic is not our friend! It doesn’t bring our Body Clutter to our attention!

That little uncomfortable feeling in our jeans should be just the call to action we need to take the baby steps to declutter. I am not talking about crash dieting either. Those don’t work any better than crisis cleaning. Oh sure, they will help you lose the weight to get into that wedding dress or bathing suit, but after you accomplish your unrealistic goal the weight will come back! Here is what we can do to address our Body Clutter: 1. Don’t wear clothes with elastic or drawstrings. 2. Weigh every day! This tells you how your body reacted to what you did yesterday. 3. Never crash diet! 4. Eat three meals a day and three snacks. Eat something good for you every two hours. 5. Baby step your way out of drinking sugar or diet sodas. Replace with water. 6. Do 15 minutes of loving movement each day! 7. Drink eight glasses of water. This is so simple and it is the best beauty treatment you can do! 8. GET RID OF YOUR FAT CLOTHES!

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Body Clutter is not just the cellulite on our thighs, it is the negative thinking we have between our ears. When we look at our relationship with food, we will begin to eat and move to bless our bodies. We have been indulging our little princess for a long time. You would not allow your children to eat like you do or be sedentary. It is time to go out and play! 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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ADT Dancers Continue to Win Awards

Alabama Dance Theatre dancers, students and faculty continue to win acceptance, scholarships and awards at some of the nation’s most selective dance institutions and festivals. ADT is proud to announce that the following dancers have received acceptance and/or scholarships to the following programs: Awards: Artistic Director Kitty Seale won an Alabama State Council on the Arts 2013 Govenor’s Arts Award; ACES 1st place Senior High: Mary Katherine Messick; ACES 2nd place Senior High: Angelica Burgher; ACES Honorable Mention Senior High: Taylor Jordan, McKenzie Middlebrooks and Phoebe Hall; and Regional Dance America’s National Choreography Connection Award: Sara Sanford. Scholarships and Acceptances: Alabama Ballet: Safiya Haque; Alabama Dance Academy: Catherine Cobb, Amelia

Felder and Ana Clare Wolfe; Alabama Youth Ballet Theatre: Catherine Cobb and Ana Clare Wolfe; American Ballet Theatre: Catherine Cobb, Amelia Felder and Ana Clare Wolfe; Ballet Magnificat: Angelica Burgher; Boston Ballet: Taylor Jordan; Huntsville Ballet: Catherine Cobb; International Ballet Intensive: Catherine Cobb; Inwood Dance Company: Angelica Burgher; Joffrey Ballet: McKenzie Middlebrooks; Louisville Ballet Youth Ensemble: Catherine Cobb;

Mangus Northwest Summer Intensive: Taylor Jordan; Southeast Alabama Dance Comapny: Ke’Yana Robinson, Ana Clare Wolfe; South Carolina Summer Intensive: Baylee Clark, Catherine Cobb, Lauren Taylor and Aloria Adams; The Rock School: Taylor Jordan; The University of Mississippi (College): Caroline Cooper and Elisha Rambin; Duke Unviversity (College): McKenzie Middlebrooks; and Troy University (College): Jasmine Roberts ADT is located at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue. Summer classes are being held through July 19. To register for summer classes, call 241-2590. Don’t miss ADT’s FREE summer performances of “Stars on the Riverfront” August 4 & 5. For more info, visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com. (photo by David Robertson, Jr. of ADT’s Senior Company)

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Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection Receives Platinum

Tonya Speed’s “Yesterday, Today and Forever” production number won Platinum Awards at competitions locally and in Atlanta competing with several other studios regionally. A special judge’s award was given for “King of Pop,” as well as an entertainment award. This dance included three of the studio’s award-winning teams. With musical theater being showcased in some of the choreography, a new class will be offered in musical theater at the studio.

13U Dirtbags Steamroll Tournament at Fain Park

The 13U Dirtbags continued to roll at the USSSA Montgomery Power Pitcher held at Fain Park in Montgomery May 3-5. The Dirtbags reeled off four straight victories, averaged twelve runs a game and only allowed four per game. On Friday night, the Dirtbags cranked out 16 hits and pounded the Opelika Big Dogs 15-2. DeMarvin Perry highlighted the night with a 315-foot three-run homerun. Jalon Long led the team with three hits, including a double. Dalton Hill, Jay Brown, MJ Galloway and Tyler Britton each had two hits. Gabe Maynard contributed with a single and an RBI. Hill had a double. Ford Hilyer came on in the second inning to throw three innings of no hit ball, striking out five. After the rains blew through Saturday, the Dirtbags faced The Dothan Naturals. The Dirtbags easily slid past The Naturals 9-3. Long had two hits and two RBI. Grayson Evans, Kevin Dowdell and Brown each added singles and an RBI. Long threw two innings, giving up only one hit while striking out five. Perry threw two innings, only allowing one hit and striking out three. Hilyer threw one inning, allowing no hits and striking out one. The Dirtbags were the number-one seed going into bracket play Sunday. In the semifinals the Dirtbags faced the Montgomery Dirtbags. The Dirtbags won 10-6. Evans led the Dirtbags at the plate with two hits and two RBI. Hilyer and Long each had two RBI. Evans and Maynard had doubles. Long and Britton combined for the win on the mound. Long pitched three innings, allowed just two hits and struck out three. In the championship game, the Dirtbags faced the Auburn Stars. After struggling to find the strike zone in the top of the first and giving up five runs on two hits, the Dirtbags exploded for 17 hits and cruised to an easy 13-5 victory. Once again Evans led the Dirtbags at the plate belting four hits and two RBI. Hill, Brown, Long, Hilyer and Britton each added two hits. Dowdell and Britton each had triples. Perry and Maynard also had hits. Perry and Britton had three RBI each. Hill threw five innings, giving up only four hits and striking out four. The Dirtbags ran their 13U record to 18-3 having won four of the six tournaments they have played in. They finished second in another. Back row from left are Gabe Maynard, Tyler Britton, DeMarvin Perry, Kevin Dowdell, Ben Anderson and Jay Brown; and front from left are Grayson Evans, MJ Galloway, Ford Hilyer, Dalton Hill and Jalon Long. www.montgomeryparents.com

Central Ala. Martial Arts Competes in Georgia

Students from Central Alabama Martial Arts traveled to Cleveland, Ga. to participate in APTSD Black Belt testing and competition. The two-day event consisted of a rigorous test for those students testing for black belt Friday evening. Saturday focused on all belt level competition in point sparring, forms, weapons and board breaking. The students were well prepared for the competition with many placing in their respective divisions. The school also conducted a women’s self-defense clinic in May. The intent was to teach women with little or no martial arts experience techniques to defend themselves if necessary. Group clinics can be scheduled by calling Mr. Watson. Central Alabama Martial Arts is located at 5130 Elmore Rd. in Wetumpka. Classes are offered for ages five through adult. For more info, call Chris Watson at (334) 202-8994.

Riverwalk Stadium Nominated for World Wonder

The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitor Bureau (CVB) has entered Riverwalk Stadium into VirtualTourist.com’s quest to crown the “8th Wonder of the World.” Public voting is now open at VirtualTourist.com, a leading travel research website and community that is part of TripAdvisor Media Group. Stadium Journey Magazine compared the stadium to those all around the country, of all levels and sports, and named Riverwalk Stadium 18th best experience in the “101 Best Stadium Experiences” of 2012 as well as the second best minor league and fourth overall in professional baseball stadiums. Voters can visit www.virtualtourist.com to vote for Riverwalk Stadium and have until September 30 to do so. The wonder with the most votes will be crowned the winner. The winner will be featured in a national broadcast TV segment on a popular syndicated program as well as receive a massive media relations campaign push from VirtualTourist. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

The Gift of Grandfathers

Grandfathers often have the special gift of wisdom and extra attention to share with our children. For children who are blessed to know their grandfatherly forebears, they often gain the benefits of their grandfather’s life experiences and memories through those rare and treasured interactions. Getting to know their grandfathers is a vital part of children’s lives as they work to assemble their understanding of how families are made and grown, how each relationship is different and special. The following titles explore the unique connections between children and their grandfathers in beautiful, loving and poignant ways.

Max and the Tag-Along Moon

by Floyd Cooper (Philomel / Penguin Books for Young Readers) At the end of Max’s visit with his Grandpa, the hardest part is saying goodbye. As their last hug is framed by the rising full moon, his Grandpa says, “That ‘ol moon will always shine for you…on and on!” And true enough, as the family drives away, Max watches his Grandpa recede from view while the moon waxes large. Through all the twists and turns of the drive the moon plays peek-aboo, yet it is always there. But when the clouds arrive, the moon is hidden and Max isn’t sure that it’s shining anymore. Missing his Grandpa AND the moon, Max lies in bed worrying about the absence of both until a gentle light begins to fill his bedroom, keeping his Grandpa’s promise. A lovingly illustrated testament to a relationship that is constant despite the challenges of time and distance, ‘Max and the Tag-Along Moon’ is gentle support for kids missing a grandparent.

Joone

by Emily Kate Moon (Dial) Joone revels in the life she shares with her Grandpa in his homey yurt. Narrating the ways they spend their days, Joone offers a child’s eye view of the ways that her grandfather finds a balance between play and parenting. Her words reveal bits of her Grandpa’s life (before he was old) showing that she’s paying attention to who he was, as well as who he is. With lively illustrations and spare text, readers will appreciate the blending lives of a loving grandfather moving slowly through the day while his adventuresome, full of zest granddaughter runs, climbs and swims with enough energy for both of them.

Zayde Come to Live

by Sheri Sinykin, Illustrated by Kristina Swarner (Peachtree) Rachel thinks she knows why her Zayde (grandfather) has come to live with her and her family. Although no one has told her, she knows because he is dying. He is no longer able to play hideand-seek, or catch a ball without getting tired. He runs out of breath when he reads to Rachel, so she reads to him. While she’s aware that she will eventually lose her Zayde, she’s more worried about what will happen to him when he dies. She doesn’t know who to ask until the family’s rabbi visits. The answers she receives are reassuring and allow her to focus on every moment, every breath that she can still share with her Zayde before the end. The title alone, ‘Zayde Comes to Live’, is an optimistic message leading a powerful story recommended for kids who are facing the loss of a grandparent or elder relative. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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STOP the

Mom Bullying by Sandra Gordon

Breastfeeding or using formula. Working versus staying at home. The best bedtime for toddlers. Whether to let babies cry it out. Or co-sleep. To give time-outs or not. Spanking—yes or no? Let’s face it—raising kids involves making countless decisions that can shape you as a parent. Your internal GPS (intuition) can guide you, of course. So can insight from friends, your spouse, your extended family and fellow moms and dads online. But with so much advice swirling around, parenting can sometimes feel like a disco ball. Are you doing the right thing? It depends on whom you ask. And thanks to the anonymity of the Internet, there are plenty of harsh critics lurking out there, waiting to let you know whether you’re on track—or not. Oh, the scrutiny! “Surveys show that 95 percent of moms feel judged by just about everything these days, from working or not working and their choice of infant feeding, to their discipline approaches and the sleep methods they use with their kids,” says Michelle Borba, Ed.D., a parenting expert and author of 22 books, including The Big Book of www.montgomeryparents.com

Parenting Solutions. Unsolicited feedback or even just dirty looks from other moms in the grocery store can make parenting even more stressful. Borba even goes so far as to call it a form of bullying, which can undermine your parenting assurance and feed into the problem. “When you have less confidence in yourself, you’re more likely to be judgmental of other moms,” Borba says. You might even change your parenting style. According to Borba, one out of three moms makes a different parenting choice because she feels criticized by another mom. A better idea? Remember that there’s no cookie cutter approach to parenting. What works for one child won’t necessarily work for another, even within the same family. To boost your confidence and empower yourself as a parent while you’re figuring out how to tailor your approach, stand up for yourself. Here’s how to handle criticism from know-it-all friends, relatives, coworkers and cyber parents.

Practice assertiveness. When somebody criticizes you (as in, “I can’t believe you’re still breastfeeding,”) stay 76

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cool and calm. “Bullies love responses,” Borba says. Resist the urge to insult them with a cutting comeback. Instead, take a deep breath and respond with a simple line, such as “I hear you,” or “Thank you. I know what works best for my child,” in a firm, strong voice. “Practice your response ahead of time so you can deliver it in the heat of the moment,” Borba says. Use firm body language, too. “Look at the color of the talker’s eyes.” These assertiveness techniques can also come in handy on the playground, so teach them to your kids, too.

Seek support. As a mom, you need layers of support, including an inner circle of other moms you who make you feel valued. “Find truly supportive friends— moms you can confide in who you know won’t take what you tell them any further,” says Sue Hubbard, M.D., a Dallas pediatrician and host of the “The Kid’s Doctor.” It may take some play date experimenting to find your inner circle. The pay-off? “Moms who receive support are confident, happier and more fulfilled,” Dr. Hubbard says. Your inner circle can change over time as you and your kids change. But there’s no better Montgomery Parents I July 2013

relationship than with other trusted moms in the trenches. That said, the mommysphere on the Internet shouldn’t be your inner circle. Not all discussions need to involve everyone. “There are many decisions you can make on your own or with that inner group of friends,” Dr. Hubbard says. If you decide to share something online, however, whether it be a tweet, text, Facebook or blog post, use the front door rule: “If you don’t want to put it on the front door for your own mother to see, don’t push send,” Dr. Hubbard says.

Trust your “momtuition.”

Sometimes, you just know you’re right about a parenting decision, such as deciding not to send your child to summer camp. In those stances, go with it. “Don’t second-guess yourself or go online to get others’ opinions,” Dr. Hubbard says. Similarly, if you have a tough parenting decision to make, such as whether to put your child on ADHD medication, get an expert’s advice. Seek out the counsel of your pediatrician.

Don’t bully. As a mom yourself, it’s impossible not to question other moms’

parenting tactics. Still, resist the urge to inflict your opinion. Instead, stop, think and consider the potential big picture. Recently, for example, Danielle Smith, founder of Extraordinarymommy.com, was on an airplane. A woman with a preschool-age boy sat in the row behind her. “The child, who was sitting above the wing, kept telling his mom he couldn’t see. When the mom said, “Will you just shut up! Everyone is looking at you,” I started to judge her,” Smith says. “Then I said to myself, ‘Wait a minute. You have no idea what her day has been like. You don’t know if her child has pushed every single button. You’ve told your children to shut up before.’” Instead of turning around and saying something not so nice, Smith stayed facing forward, which is what seemed to be the most helpful thing to do at the moment since the mom was concerned about attracting attention. Dr. Hubbard agrees with Smith’s “stop and think” approach. When you feel the urge to judge others, “Ask yourself, ‘I wonder what happened in that mom’s life to make her feel or act that way?’” Dr. Hubbard says. If you decide to intervene, share your ideas in a positive manner, such

as “Would you like to switch seats so your son can see out the window?”

Consider criticism just information. Likewise, if you feel

judged, consider the judger’s perspective. U.S. Olympic gold medalist Keri Walsh Jennings was walking through the infant formula section at Target recently with her third child, one-month-old daughter, Scout, when she got the stink eye from another mom. “I took a deep breath and said to myself, ‘She has no idea I’m a low-producing woman; that my kids starve when I only feed them breast milk because my milk is too low in fat.’ So I gave the lady a smile and grabbed two boxes of formula,” Walsh Jennings says. “Knowing why I’m doing what I’m doing empowers me.” Walsh Jennings also thinks critics serve a purpose. “They make you think, ‘You’re right. I could adjust this,’ or ‘You know what? I’m kicking butt and I’m not changing a thing.” mp Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues. Her most recent book is Save a Bundle: 50+ Ways to Save Big on Baby Gear.

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Public Library Events MONTGOMERY CITY-COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Storytimes

Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library (Main Branch) 245 High Street 240-4991 Summer Reading Program Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. in the auditorium No program July 4 July 11 Earth Fare Tish MacInnis will talk about healthy seeds that you can eat. We will make a special treat to eat. July 18 Dig Into Reading Summer Reading Balloon Party Teen Summer Reading Wednesdays @ 10 a.m. No meeting July 3 July 10 Film: “Holes” (Auditorium) July 17 Summer Reading Closing Ceremony (Auditorium) Coliseum Branch 840 Coliseum Boulevard 271-7005 Preschool Storytime Thursdays, 10 a.m. July 4 No Story Time Today July 11 I love to help others! The Teeny Tiny Teacher The Little Red Hen Craft – Hen masks July 18 Never give up in trying to reach your goals! The Princess and the Pea The Three Billy Goats Gruff Craft – Goat masks July 25 Good things happen when you’re nice! See You Later, Alligator Jack and the Beanstalk Craft – Alligator masks Summer Reading Program Fridays @ 10 a.m. for ages 5-12 www.montgomeryparents.com

July 5 No Program Today Happy 4th of July July 12 Dig into Dinosaurs Movie “Eyewitness: Dinosaurs” Activity – Dinosaur finger paper craft (Please turn in your Reading Logs by today to receive certificates and snacks next Friday, July 19.) July 19 Program Finale – Everyone is invited! Dig Into Balloons Dr. Magical Balloons will share his balloon tricks, magic and storytelling. Prizes will be given to the highest readers in 3 different age brackets.

July 8 Growing a Garden Brenda Henson, County Extension, will present a program on gardening. Then the children will do a Word Search activity.

5th-8th Grade 39 Clues Summer Reading Club Sign-up. Dates/Times TBD

July 15 Awards Party

July 25 Pie the Librarian Day (if goal is met)

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

Rufus A. Lewis Branch 3095 Mobile Hwy. 240-4848 Summer Reading Program Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Baby & Toddler Time Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. An early learning & literacy program designed for children ages 6 months to 3 years July 3 No Baby & Toddler Time

Teen Summer Reading Club Ages 13 – 19

July 10 Nursery Rhymes: “What Are Little Boys Made Of?” “The Itsy-Bitsy Spider” Signing “light.”

July 19 @ 10 a.m. Program Finale Dr. Magical Balloons will share his balloon tricks, magic and storytelling. Certificates and snacks will be awarded to those who turned in their reading logs by July 12. Prizes will be given to the highest readers in 3 different brackets.

July 17 Nursery Rhymes: “Little Polly Flanders” “Hickory, Dickory, Dock” Signing “hot.” July 24 Nursery Rhymes: “Seesaw, Margery Daw” “Star Light, Star Bright” Signing “cold.”

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

Pre-School Story Time Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. Children 3 and up

July 2 What’s the Scoop on Bluebell? Guest presenter Todd Lucas, Bluebell Creameries, will read From Cow to Ice Cream and tell the children how ice cream is made. A delicious frozen treat for each child will follow the program.

July 2 No Story Time July 9 Dinosaurs Dinosaurs T. Rex and the Mother’s Day Hug Video

July 9 How Does Your Garden Grow? Liz Hunter, from County Extension, will read My Garden, followed by a program about gardening. July 15 Awards Party Summer Reading Program Grades K-5th Mondays @ 10 a.m. July 1 Dig into History of Coca Cola Special guest Nicholas Bagley, from Coca Cola Bottling Company, will present a program about the history of Coke. Then the children will get a refreshing treat.

July 2 No Dragons for Tea: Fire Safety for Kids (and Dragons) Twist With A Burger Jitter with a Bug I Like Myself

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July 9 Footprints of the Past (Fossils) Presented by Dr. John VanValkenburg a Knowledgeable, Informative and Entertaining Speaker

July 10 Special Guest Ron Mays – corporate pilot, inspirational speaker, reader and devoted library patron

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July 16 Tribute to Grandmothers – Please Invite Grandparents to Attend No Mirrors In My Nana’s House My Granny’s Purse What! Cried Granny: An Almost Bedtime Story Refreshments Served July 17 *End of Summer Library Program Party with a Surprise Guest Teen Reading Program Mondays @ 2 p.m.

K-4th Grade Summer Reading Program Thursdays 1 p.m.

July 15 End of Summer Party (A Magic Treat) featuring local teen rapper Jamar Weeks

July 18 Gardens & Worms

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July 3 The Twelve Days of Summer Jazz Baby Tanka Tanka Skunk

July 8 Tie-Dye T-Shirts (T-Shirts furnished by Ms. Stringer)

July 11 Dinosaurs

July 19: Last Day to turn in Logs (Friday)

July 16 Gardens My Garden A Green, Green Garden Gardening activity

July 4 Library closed

E.L. Lowder Branch 2590 Bell Road 244-5717 Preschool Storytime Fridays, 10:15 a.m. July 5 NO STORYTIME Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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July 12 The Cow That Was The Best Moother The Cow Who Clucked Activity: Cow Mask July 19 Curious George Goes to an Ice Cream Shop Activity: Making Ice Cream July 26 Fox and the Hen Activity: Coloring Sheet Summer Reading Program Tuesdays July 9 @ 10:30 a.m. Katie’s Craft Corner Do you like surprises? Come and see what Ms. Katie has dug up... July 16 @ 10:30 a.m. Big Summer Reading Party ALL READING LOGS MUST BE TURNED IN BY JULY 14. NO EXCEPTIONS! Bertha Pleasant Williams Library (formerly Rosa L. Parks Branch) 1276 Rosa L. Parks Ave./240-4979 Pre-School Story Time Tuesdays, 10 a.m. July 2 Celebrate the Fourth of July as we read some books and celebrate Independence Day!

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July 9 This week’s story time will be all about flowers, fruits and worms!

July 16 National Ice Cream Month We’ll learn where ice cream comes from with some great books!

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July 23 We’ll celebrate “America’s Favorite Pastime” with some fun books and a cool video! July 30 Doggone it, dogs are fantastic! Listen to some hilarious tales and songs about man’s best friend! Summer Reading Program Wednesdays @10 a.m. July 3 Digging Up the Past, Ala. Dept. of Archives and History. July 10 Fossil Collection, Dr. John VanValkenburg, historian and archaeologist July 17 Nutrition and Physical Activities for Children and Teens, Molly Killman, Assistant Director Nutrition and Activity Division, Ala. Dept. of Public Health. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Teen/YA Program July 8-12 Darius Grant will lead a workshop on acting and dance performance. Teens and young adults will meet at 4 p.m.

Pintlala Branch 255 Federal Rd., Hope Hull 281-8069 “Dig Into Reading” Ages 1 – 14 Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.

Art in the Afternoon with MMFA July 1 & 8: 2nd through 6th graders meet from 3:30-4:30 to make a free, fun project. Registration is required.

July 2, 3 & 4 NO PROGRAM Happy 4th of July July 9 We All Scream for Ice Cream Todd Lucas, Blue Bell Creameries Game & Craft

Pike Road Branch 9585 Pike Rd. / 244-8679 Story Time for ages 3-7 Mondays at 4 p.m.

July 10 Dig Into Reading with a Twist Ms. Joan Means, Librarian of Governor’s Square Branch Library

July 8 Dig into Reading, Part 5 July 15 Dig into Reading, Part 6: Join us for our summer Story Time finale!

July 11 Surprise, Surprise, Surprise July 16 Treasure Hunt indoors and out with Jessica Hines

Summer Events for First through Fourth-Graders Tuesdays at 4 p.m.

July 17 Wii Game Competitions

July 9 Diggin’ Dinos – The McWane Center brings its traveling paleontology program to Pike Road! The McWane Center appears courtesy of the Friends of the Pike Road Branch Library.

July 18 Summer Reading Program Party!!! Ramer Branch Library 5444 State Highway 94 (334) 562-3364 Summer Schedule Story Times Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

July 16 Did You Dig It? Join us for our summer finale. Our plans aren’t set yet, but they will include the annual visit to the chocolate fountain.

July 9 “The Joy of Reading” with Lynda Maddox, retired Montgomery City-County librarian.

Choose Your Own Apocalypse – A Summer Program for Teens Wednesdays Teens love post-apocalyptic fiction and, this summer, they will imagine what life would be like for them in the apocalypse of their choice. Teens will share their apocalyptic lives through journal entries, art, video or any other form of creative expression.

July 16 Summer Reading Program Graduation- children will celebrate all they have learned this summer

Teens will meet on the following dates and times: July 10 at 4 p.m. July 24 at 4 p.m. Video Game Days for Fifth through Eighth-Graders Thursdays Are you a Mario Kart champion? Do you have the best moves in Just Dance? Come test your skills against other gamers at the library!

Pine Level Branch 20 Kohn Dr., Pine Level 584-7144 79

254 Doster Street, Prattville Call 365-3396 or visit http://www.appl.info Preschool Storytime Tuesdays at 10 a.m. P.A.W.S. dogs Wednesdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Book clubs for different reading levels: Spiderwick (levels 3.9-4.4) Tuesdays @ 1:30-3 p.m. Young Cam Jansen (levels 2.4-2.9) Wednesdays @ 1:30-3 p.m. Bunnicula (levels 4.5-4.8) Fridays @ 10-11:30 a.m. Heroes of Olympus (for teens and tweens) Mondays @ 1:30-3:30 p.m. Teen/tween Programs on Tuesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Wetumpka

212 S. Main St. (next to Wetumpka Depot) Call 567-1308 or visit www.wetumpkalibrary.com Preschool storytimes Tuesdays & Fridays at 10 a.m. July 2 & 5: I Dig Worms July 9 & 12: I Dig Getting Dirty July 16 & 19: I Dig Pirates July 23 & 26: I Dig Big Machines July 30 & Aug 2: I Dig Ice Cream “Dig Into Reading!” Program for 1st-6th graders Tuesdays @ 2 p.m. Wetumpka Civic Center Through July 23

Movie Matinee Wednesdays @ 3 p.m.

July 2 I Dig Worms with Dr. Kimberly Hays via Skype

July 10 Huck and the King of Hearts – a young boy grows up

July 9 Digging Into the past with Ned Jenkins/Fort Toulouse

July 17 Small Miracles – a movie about faith

July 16 Montgomery Zoo Presents..

Millbrook

July 23 Author Chris Grabenstein & prizes **Note: Journals Due July 18.**

3650 Grandview Road Call 285-6688 or visit http://library.cityofmillbrook.org/ Three days a week we will have activities for the children! Tuesday is Movie Day, Wednesday is Family Day and Thursday is Pre-School Story Hour. All programs begin at 10 a.m. Deadline for books to count toward Summer Reading Program goal is July 19. Awards Ceremony will be July 24 at 10 a.m. at the Millbrook Civic Center!

Video Game Days will take place on the following dates and times: July 11 at 3 p.m. July 18 at 3 p.m.

AutaugaPrattville Library

“Beneath the Surface” Program for 7th-12th graders Thursdays @ 1 p.m. Jeanette Barrett Civic Room Through July 25 July 4: Library Closed July 11: Christmas in July July 18: Bring your favorite electronic or board game. July 25: Reader’s Theater & ice cream sundaes www.montgomeryparents.com

Family Fun in During a recent conversation, a friend mentioned her family’s visit to Wonder Works in Panama City Beach and how much they all enjoyed it. Having not been to PCB since I was five years old and anxious for a family getaway, we decided to make the trip. We decided to make a weekend of it and booked our stay at the BayPoint Wyndham Resort. The resort had great economical value with a Family Getaway Package in April for only $99/night (rates vary by season). However, we decided to book a golf villa for more room, plus the villas include a small kitchen. If you are a pet lover, you will appreciate that some of the rooms even allow pets. We checked in around 7 p.m., and since we knew the temperature was dropping significantly the next day, we decided to take

a night swim. What a great first impression! The largest pool (there are five on property) is a zero entry pool that is well lit, making it perfect for a dip in the water at night. The next morning we headed to the resort’s Kingfish restaurant for their breakfast bar, then off to Wonder Works. At first glance we knew this was going to be a LOT of fun, as the building appears to be upside down! After purchasing tickets we walked through a door that led to a black tunnel with dancing lights. Simple enough…just walk across the floor through the short tunnel. Wrong! The dancing lights play a trick on your brain making you think the floor is turning over, so we grabbed the railing for dear life. Only a few steps later we were out of the tunnel and realized the floor, nor anything else in the tunnel, had been moving at all. It was a great way to begin the tour. www.montgomeryparents.com

Panama City Beach Wonder Works has many other attractions, too. You’ll discover a hurricane hut, a real bed of nails you can lie on, trampoline basketball, centrifugal force motorcycle races (yes, you go upside down), a mega bubble factory, arcade, laser tag and a 2-3 story rope obstacle course. These are just a small sampling of the many activities and exhibits at Wonder Works. Plan to spend several hours up to a full day here. Needless to say we all had a blast and will definitely go again! Exhausted and hungry we decided to return to the resort’s Kingfish Grill and Sushi Bar for dinner. The menu selection was wonderful. I highly recommend the filet and crab cakes. Being a family friendly resort, the Kingfish offers kidfriendly menu options also. Saturday morning we were excited to board the resort’s own Bay Point Lady offering a complimentary boat ride to Shell Island. We really wanted to take advantage of the SUP (stand up paddle board) classes and jet-ski rental, but unfortunately the temperature dropped into the low 50s making it too cold for water sports. At this point, we were definitely glad we chose to book our stay at the BayPoint Resort because there were still plenty of other activities in which to participate. After lunch on the pier at Lime’s Grill, a casual, open-air restaurant, my husband and girls still wanted to swim so they headed to the indoor heated pool. I, on the other hand, 80

got an early Mother’s Day present and was treated to an amazing hot stone massage in the Serenity Day Spa. If you like to play golf or tennis, the resort also has two championship golf courses and five hydro grid clay tennis courts right on property. Next, we all met up at the Kids Club for some afternoon games and activities. We were excited to learn they were featuring “The Jungle Book” at that night’s “dive-in” movie by the Palms Pool, so we checked out some board games to take back to our villa

for family game night and headed off to the movie. Our family had a blast staying up way too late laughing and playing games together. We all agreed it was a great family weekend and many memories were made! For details about Wonder Works and BayPoint Wyndham Resort visit their websites at www.wonderworksonline.com and www.baypointwyndham.com. Contributed by Lynn Knighton.

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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

Free 24 hour Emergency Consultations

(334) 244-0702 or 1-800-873-2887 www.bradfordhealth.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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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. 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. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 457-9254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. 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! First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Tou-

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louse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/ features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (2740062 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. 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. Robert E. Lee High School Class of 1973 is planning its 40th class reunion to be held in July. If you are interested in helping, please call (334) 269-0959. 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 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 July 17. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

Classes Bradley Method Natural Childbirth Classes

Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Zink Chiropractic Clinic, Course includes pregnancy exercise and nutrition, body changes during pregnancy, the coach’s role in pregnancy and natural birth, the stages of labor, breathing and relaxation for labor, common interventions and how to avoid them, breastfeeding, basic newborn care, and more. Contact Lanette Tyler, 450-4605 or lanette.tyler@gmail.com; or visit www.bradleybirth.com Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breast-feeding experience. Usually the first Saturday of the month, from 9-11 a.m. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. FREE. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year but are often held on the first Saturday of the month, from noon-2 p.m.. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class 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

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Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 2734445 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 patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers

must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/patients_volunteers.html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894. Nolan Research Pays Kids for Toy Testing Nolan Research, 2569 Bell Road in Montgomery, conducts toy tests that pay $20 in cash to each child ages 4-12 that participates. Testing takes place usually between 5 and 7 p.m. and only takes about 30-45 minutes. Results are used to help toy manufacturers decide whether or not

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Family Calendar to bring new toys out on the market. Please call 284-4164 to sign your child up and spread the word to any other families who may be interested in allowing their children to participate.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC), This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Kai Mumpfield at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail apac2@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Cancer Support

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

Divorce Support

Divorce Care, Grief Share, Divorce Care for Children, All three groups meet Sundays at 5 p.m. at Heritage Baptist Church, 1849 Perry Hill Rd. Call 279-9976. Divorce Care and Divorce Care 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays starting

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July 2013

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.

Gambling Support

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

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 279-6677. 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) 284-2721. 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 faithbased 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 272-

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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8622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 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 EastChase-NE. 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.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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www.montgomeryparents.com

Family Calendar Parent Support

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his 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 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

www.montgomeryparents.com

July 2013

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 the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net Parents of Special Needs Children, Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, 1st Sundays, 5-6:30 p.m. Please notify Chris Henderson if you plan to come. (Home: 215-0427; e-mail: chenderson41@yahoo.com River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo. com

Teens/Families Support

Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info! “Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way. Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m. “Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity! “Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children. “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating. “Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special

someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher! Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot! You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, 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 Tuesday, July 2

Millbrook Farmers Market -- Tuesdays Through August 27 The Village Green. 3-6 p.m. Visit www.cityofmillbrook. org or call (334) 285-0330.

Thursday, July 4

Fourth of July Blast Concert & Fireworks at Lake Martin Sponsored by Russell Lands on Lake Martin at the Lake Martin Amphitheater. Live entertainment will begin at 7 p.m. Those not wishing to attend the concert may watch the fireworks from boats or in the open fields off Highway 63. Gates open 5:30 p.m., Show schedule: 7 p.m. Red Mountain, 8 p.m. Hula Hoop Contest and Twist Contest, 8:15 Nationwide Coverage, 9 p.m. Fireworks, 9:30 Nationwide Coverage. Prices: $15 per person (children 6 and under FREE). Visit www.lmat.org/fourth.html 4th of July Family Picnic WSFA and The City of Montgomery presents Montgomery’s Grand Independence Day Picnic at Riverfront Park! Coolers, food and beverages are allowed, but please NO alcohol and NO grills. Live music begins at 6 p.m. The bands are: Mama Piranha, Confederate Hipster and Federal Expression. Children’s activities; food and beverage vendors will be available. The Grand Independence Fireworks Finale will begin at 9 p.m. and is sponsored by Creek Casinos Montgomery and Wetumpka. Pike Road 4th of July and Summerfest The Pike Road Civic and Community Clubs will host the annual Fourth of July parade at 10a.m. beginning at Pike Road Baptist Church and ending at The Feed Lot. This year’s theme is symbols of freedom. All are welcome to enter. For more details, contact Mel Carr, parade chairman, at (334) 244-0778. Join us that evening at 6 p.m. at The Waters for Summer Fest...food, fireworks, music and family fun! For more info, visit http://pikeroad.us/ Prattville Independence Day Celebration Various locations. Parade begins at Autauga County Courthouse at 9 a.m.; BBQ/camp stew sale begins at 10 a.m. at Pratt Park. The splash pad will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 4 during the day’s events. It must close at 3 p.m. to clear Pratt Park so that everything can be assembled safely for the evening’s fireworks extravaganza at Stanley-Jensen Stadium. Gates open at 6 p.m.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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The patriotic program begins at 7 p.m. and the fireworks show will commence at dark. Call (334) 358-0297 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov for details. Wetumpka’s 4th of July Celebration Free. Behind City Administrative Bldg. 5 p.m.-until. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Call 567-5147 or visit www. cityofwetumpka.com

GET YOUR

SPLASH ON!

Friday, July 5

The Secret Garden Performed at the Red Door Theatre in Union Springs 1 p.m. by the national touring group from The Hampstead Stage of New Hampshire. The well-known and beloved story will be offered for one time only! Admission is two canned goods or $2 which will be donated to the Bullock County Food Pantry. Call (334) 738-8687 for additional information. Late Night with YMCA Goodtimes -- Also July 12, 19 & 26 A weekly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of five-to 12-year-olds offered at the YMCA Goodtimes Center on Bell Road. Time is 6:30-11:30 p.m. and supper is included. Cost is $15 per child and no reservations are required. Child to staff ratio is 15:1. Call 279-8878 for more info.

The new generation says we’re “tight”! To those of you over 25, that means cool. See what else they say about us!

Cra Cra! (crazy fast)

Saturday, July 6

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 “Despicable Me 2” surprise! 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. Kirk Whalum & Family Reunion Concert Presented by the Alabama Jazz & Blues Federation at the Riverwalk Amphitheatre. Gates will open at 5 p.m. and the show starts at 6:30. Ticket prices: $30; Members: $25; day of the event: $35. The concert is rain or shine. Please visit the following locations for tickets: Howard’s Hairstylers & Designers; Ted The Wine Guy and Company; Maxwell AFB, Vending Services Office / ITT Ticket Office; Another Chance and Uptown Tanz; Heritage Barber & Style Shop; Golden Shears; ETIX. Eastdale Mall Family Fun Night -- Also July 13, 20 and 27; and August 3 The Eastdale Mall Family Fun Night program is held every Saturday night during the summer from 6-8 p.m. During these hours each Saturday, participating families can enjoy special discounts from vendors throughout the mall. Also included for participating families are free ice-skating for children 10 and under, arts and crafts, and inflatables provided by The Space Walker. To take part in these activities, families must check in at the Eastdale Customer Service Centre to receive wristbands. For more info, call (334) 277-7380 or visit eastdale-mall.com. Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market -- Every Saturday through August 31 7 a.m.-noon. The Farmers Market producers and growers offer unique items such as organic meats and milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads, plants, fruit pastries, bird houses and handmade jewelry—all made from local vendors and locally grown ingredients. For more information, call 279-6046.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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www.montgomeryparents.com

Family Calendar 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.

July 2013

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 months - 3 years) 10 a.m. On A Pirate Ship. Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class with songs about your home, with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. Cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264. Music and Storytime for Babies (Newborn - 15 months) 11:15 a.m. Mother Goose Rhymes. Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, instrument play, scarf play, dancing, bubbles, and a storytime. Cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264.

Cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264. Music and Storytime for Preschoolers (3-5 years ) 11:15 a.m. Camping in the Great Outdoors. Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. Cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264. 2 for 1 Food Night at the Montgomery Biscuits 7:05 p.m. Hot dogs, burgers, biscuits, popcorn, soda and more are Buy 1 Get 1 FREE! MAX Fireworks Spectacular after the game. For more info, visit biscuitsbaseball.com or call 323-2255. Capital City Combine Camp -- Also July 13 Football and cheer camp for 1st-8th graders at Goodwyn Middle School. Early registration is $40. Additional information can be found at c4camp.com. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also July 26 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

Wednesday, July 10

Saturday, July 13

Tuesday, July 9

Master Gardener ‘Lunch & Learn’ Program Noon-1 p.m. Bring your own lunch to the Alabama 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 ‘Lunch & Learn’ series will continue on the second Wednesday of each month. Central Alabama Master Gardeners’ Assn (CAMGA) member Mary Long, Elmore, will share her extensive knowledge about growing Hydrangeas with the July ‘Lunch & Learn’ attendees. For more information, call 567-6301 or visit the Extension Office on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka.

Thursday, July 11

Wetumpka Depot Presents Noises Off! Through July 27 Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and at 2 p.m. July 21. Written by Michael Frayn and directed by Kim Mason, this play has been called the funniest farce ever written. A cast of itinerant actors rehearse a flop called “Nothing’s On.” Tickets may be reserved by calling the Depot at 334-868-1440 or by visiting www.wetumpkadepot.com.

Friday, July 12

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. Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 months - 3 years) 10 a.m. Home Sweet Home. Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class with songs about your home, with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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. 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. MAX Fireworks Spectacular at the Montgomery Biscuits -- Also August 3 7:05 p.m. For more info, visit biscuitsbaseball.com or call 323-2255. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash -- Through August 4 Opening reception July 13 at 6 p.m.; reception $8; show tickets @ 7:30 p.m. just $30. Catered by Baumhower’s. Military Appreciation Day is July 14 at 2 p.m. Tickets for active, retired, reserve, and veteran U.S. military members and their families are just $25. For tickets, call 271-5353 or visit www.asf.net.

Sunday, July 14

Kids’ Day at the Montgomery Biscuits -- Also Aug. 4 6:05 p.m. Kids run the bases! For more info, visit biscuitsbaseball.com or call 323-2255.

Wednesday, July 17

Taste of Frazer 2013 6 p.m. Wesley Hall. We need 100 volunteers to create their best recipe in one of the following categories: Appetizers, Salads, Entrees or Desserts. This event is a

fundraiser for the Community Ministries United Appeal Fund which helps to fund Frazer’s outreach to our community. To enter your dish, please contact Bobbie Cooper at 277-5722 or Jean Kocher at 277-5475. If you’d rather just come and enjoy tasting a variety of wonderful dishes, tickets will be available in July in the Frazer Bookstore. New this year: family discounts! Individual Adult: $10. Individual Child (6-12): $5. Family Combo (2 adults 2 children): $25. Children 5 and under free.

Thursday, July 18

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 “Cars Fell on Alabama: The Automotive Industry Comes to Alabama,” presented by Bill Taylor. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Prattville Founder’s Day Although Founder’s Day falls on July 20, the Autauga County Heritage Association is holding a larger event than has been held in past years. The Wreath-laying ceremony will be held at Pratt Family Cemetery at 4:30 p.m. At the end of that ceremony, we will all move back downtown for the Magic on Main event and an Opening Celebration, which will begin at 5:30 p.m. After visiting the shops and enjoying the event from 6-8 p.m., ACHA will hold a closing ceremony and raffle at 8 p.m. at the Prattaugan Museum. Please join us to celebrate Prattville’s founder, Daniel Pratt! Visit www.prattvilleal.gov. 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). The Millbrook Community Players Present Annie Through July 27 7:30 p.m. performances except for July 21 @ 2 p.m. Directed by Joe Nolin, Jr. with musical direction by Angie Mitchell and choreography by Daniel Harms. Leapin’ Lizards! The popular comic strip heroine takes center stage in one of the world’s best-loved musicals. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan ANNIE charms everyone’s hearts, despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com for ticket information.

Friday, July 19

8th Annual Wags & Whiskers Auction Benefiting Elmore County Humane Society Wetumpka Civic Center. The doors open and bidding starts at 6 p.m. Purchase of advance admission tickets are encouraged. Tickets may be purchased at the Shelter or at the door the evening of the event. Cost: $15/person and $25/ couple. For more information, call 567-3377 or visit www. elmorehumane.com

Saturday, July 20

Wetumpka’s River And Blues Festival 1-9 p.m. The smell of Cajun cuisine and sounds of some of the hottest blues and jazz bands around will once again draw thousands to the banks of the Coosa River for the 2nd annual River and Blues Music & Arts Festival. Wetumpka’s Riverwalk will be full of free activities for

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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the family. The juried art show, with some of the country’s most renowned artists, and the Dairy Queen Kids’ Zone will consist of art demonstrations and activities for kids of all ages. The Cookin’ on the Coosa barbecue cook-off will return with all proceeds going to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Wetumpka. The headliner for this year’s festival will be Sunpie and the Louisiana Sunspots at approximately 7:15 p.m. Local favorite Jimi and the Firedogs will bring you a Texas Blues vibe with some other classics thrown in for good measure and the Blind Monty Hall Band will kick things off at 1 p.m. with some of your old favorites. The Gold Star Stage will showcase some great local talent, both acoustic and fully amped, and will wrap up with the Old School Blues Band. For more info, visit www.riverandblues.net or call Tiffany Robinson at (334) 567-5147. 2nd Annual Race for Hope Benefiting Cole’s House & Children’s Hope This year’s event will take place in the Town of Pike Road and will feature a half marathon, 5K and one-mile fun run. Live band, inflatables, bake sale and family fun activities. Organized by First Baptist Church Youth Group and Partnering with the Community of Pike Road. Proceeds will go to building permanent homes in Jacmel, Haiti, for Children’s Hope. For more details on how to register or volunteer, visit www.childrens-hope.com/ race-for-hope/ Animal Enrichment Day at the Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Discover new facts on some animals that may be your favorite. Enjoy observing the animals having a good time with their treats. Admission charged. For more info, call 240-4900 or visit www. montgomeryzoo.com Prattville Gigantic Flea Market Doster Center. 6 a.m.-noon. Guns, weapons, tobacco & alcohol CANNOT be sold on the premises. Alabama Nature Center General Public Weekend Through July 21 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.

Monday, July 22

The Alabama Dance Theatre Hosts its Annual Summer Dance Seminar -- Through August 5 Intermediate and Advanced dancers are eligible for this two-week intensive seminar which features classical ballet, modern, and jazz classes taught by a nationally recognized guest faculty featuring former American Ballet Theatre Soloist Shawn Black, former principal dancer with Milwaukee Ballet Kathryn Moriarty, and former Ballet Magnificat dancer and ADT alumni Betsy McMillan. The Summer Dance Seminar culminates with two free performances of “Stars on the Riverfront” that will feature a unique array of classical and contemporary works. Admission is free. Performances are Sunday, August 4, and Monday, August 5, at 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. For more info, call (334) 2412590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com.

Wednesday, July 24

More: Daring to Live on Purpose Frazer UMC. 6 p.m. An evening for women featuring Rochelle Frazier. Room 7207 above Fellowship Hall A mom of three, blogger, author of He Gave Me Pearls and the children’s book series, “The Sweeteas,” Rochelle has allowed her personal story of brokenness and desperation to be transformed into a source of inspiration and hope through Christ. Hailing from Mississippi, Rochelle has been used by God across the country to unveil for women their calling to seek God passionately, love him deeply and follow him fearlessly. Tickets for $15 are available in the Discipleship Office. Childcare for birth through 5th grade available with reservation; sandy@frazerumc.org or call (334) 495-6391.

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Calendar Thursday, July 25

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 monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s luncheon will feature Suzanne Redd, a Mary Kay skin consultant. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, July 22, to lyramaydone@gmail.com or call 354-9797. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com

Friday, July 26

Montgomery Ballet Presents Don Quixote -Also July 27 Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. 7:30 p.m. both nights. For tickets please call 334-409-0522 or visit www. etix.com. For more info, visit www.montgomeryballet.org

Saturday, July 27

Back to School Blast Sponsored by Woodland United Methodist Church 8-11 a.m. For all children ages K5-12th grades. School supplies, free bookbags (to first 600 children), pencils, paper, other supplies, health screenings (blood pressure, diabetes, vision, hearing, & dental screens), fun & giveaways, games & prizes, snacks, free haircuts & much, much more... Everything is FREE!!! 4428 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road (intersection of Vaughn & Wallahatchie Roads). Call 272-7230 for more info. Eat-a-Palooza at the Montgomery Biscuits 7:05 p.m. $20 per person pays admission and all-youcan-eat all night! For more info, visit biscuitsbaseball. com or call 323-2255.

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Wednesday, July 31

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 months - 3 years) 10 a.m. Creatures in the Great Outdoors. Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. Cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol. com or 271-3264. Music and Storytime for Families (Newborn - 5 years) 11:15 a.m. Carnival Fun. Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based family music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, and a storytime. Cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264. Music and Storytime for Families (Newborn - 5 years) 6 p.m. At the Beach. Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based family music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, and a storytime. Cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264.

Thursday, August 1

Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents The Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wife Through August 3; 8-10; and 15-17 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. 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 386-7190 or e-mail boxoffice@faulkner.edu.

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

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Girl Scouts Name Kamp Kiwanis Pavilion in Honor of Weil & Sawyer

For more than 25 years, Kathy Sawyer and Laurie Weil have shared their gifts with the girls of Montgomery as co-directors of Camp Sunshine for girls, and through this program, they have improved the lives of thousands of girls and volunteers. After so many selfless hours of volunteering, it was Weil and Sawyer’s turn to be in the spotlight on June 6, when the Pavilion at Kamp Kiwanis, Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama’s camp on Lake Martin, was named in their honor during an evening ceremony. Camp Sunshine campers, volunteers and families of Sawyer and Weil stood in a circle around the pair, as a longtime Camp Sunshine camper read a special speech detailing their accomplishments as directors of this program before unveiling a new sign and marker at the Pavilion. From left are Laurie Weil and Kathy Sawyer.

Junior Company of Dance Generation Wins Big

The Junior Company at Dance Generation recently won a platinum, overall high point award and the state championship for 2013. Visit www.dancegenerationstudio.com. Instructors are Shawn Parker, Janice Ransom and Katelynn Hightower.

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Cub Scouts Honored with Religious Awards

On May 19, eleven boys from Wetumpka Cub Scout Pack 429 were recognized by chartered organization Mulder Church for completing the Boy Scouts of America religious awards program under the guidance of Pack Chaplain Scott Rouse. Earlier in the month, the boys had received their religious knots from Pack 429. These knots are unique because they may be worn on the boys’ uniforms all throughout their Scout careers and even as adult leaders. Jason Bailey received special mention as the only Tiger Cub who completed the program, thus becoming the youngest recipient of this award from Pack 429. Others included Richard Bailey, Justin Cauthen, Tanner Cauthen, Ethan Hamil, Jacob Hutto, Dylan LaPorte, Cameron Little, Noah McDaniel, Hayes Pieper and Ryan Rouse. Shown with their parents, from left, are Ryan Rouse, Hayes Pieper, Jason Bailey, Richard Bailey, Tanner Cauthen, Justin Cauthen, Jacob Hutto, Dylan LaPorte and Cameron Little. Ethan Hamil and Noah McDaniel were not present. Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Rev. Watkins Foundation Awards Scholarships

The Rev. Dr. A.W. Watkins Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization established in December 2003. The mission of the foundation is to provide financial assistance to graduating high school seniors living in central Alabama. The foundation also provides financial assistance to juniors and seniors enrolled in the Bible and Pastoral Ministry at Selma University. This year, the foundation has awarded 14 scholarships totaling $15,500. Shown here are the high school senior awardees, from left: Car’Daijah Lewis, Morgan Watkins, Emily Berg, Emily Bianchi and Connor Brown. Not pictured are Khadijah Shepherd, Tyler Gary, Ashley Watts, Dalton Beasley, Kristin Stakely, Kwaishawn Albritton and Faith Hickennotham. The foundation is named in honor of Rev. Dr. A W. Watkins, Jr., who was a pastor in Montgomery for more than 45 years until his death in November 2003. Even though he didn’t graduate from college, Selma University presented him with an honorary degree in 1987 for his faithful service as a board member. Reverend Watkins was a strong advocate for higher education and he emphasized that throughout his ministry. Since the initial awards in 2005, the Foundation has awarded 42 scholarships totaling more than $41,800. The foundation relies upon fundraisers and donations throughout the year to provide the much needed financial assistance to deserving students. The biggest fundraiser is the annual golf tournament held in May of each year. To share news about your group’s special events, e-mail editor@ montgomeryparents.com by the 12th of each month. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Licensed, Bonded and Insured Mbr: Pet Sitters International www.debraspetcare.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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Home Based Business Directory Frugal Mommy Days/ Our Artistic Creations Specializing in homemade candles and frugal living deals and tips. Like us on www.facebook. com/frugalmommydaysblog

Southern Quality Lawns, LLC

“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

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

We Make Life Easier

Le Concierge provides the assistance you’re looking for. If it has to get done but not necessarily by you, we can help! We provide errand services, personal/grocery shopping, scheduling appointments, in home assistance and room organizing. Let us make your life a little easier. Contact Sonja Mason @ 334-294-9088 or LeConcierge4u@gmail.com to schedule your appointment.

Chemistry Tutor

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

Advanced Placement Chemistry Honors Chemistry General Chemistry

Summer Tutoring

The Mentor

Workshops for nursing students or new nurse graduates. Call 361-2808 or email Cassandra at nursecam41@yahoo.com Calling Prattville Parents Grades K-6

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

the baby boom

We Sit And Stay While Your Away....

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.

Double masters, state certified reading specialist can help your young learner with reading and study skills. Make a plan for your student to spend some time this summer getting ahead of the pack. References available! 334-3585218, samandrew77@bellsouth.net Samantha Schiff

Piano Lessons

Saxon Lawn Service

Make the Joy of Music Yours

You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324 Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training

Piano Teacher

MaryCare Adult Day Care Home

Services for persons with Learning Disabilities, Memory Loss, Dementia, or Alzheimer’s. Care provided in my home at and affordable daily rate. 7:00 to 5:30 Mon-Fri. Call now for information at 334-320-5108.

Lucky Lawns

Aseelah Salaam Mary Kay Cosmetics

Knitting & Crocheting Lessons

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

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.

Beginners, Intermediate, or Advanced. Experienced Teacher & Adjudicator. MTNA and Nationally Certified. Summer lessons available. Call now for information at 334-265-8154.

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!

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

Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

Available for Grades K-6 Learn new skills for the upcoming year or review old skills.(Current Teacher) Mrs. Debra Taylor 334-590-2098 hdtaylor101@charter.net

For all people, all ages. Contact Katie Garner at 334-322-7791 or krgarner1@yahoo.com

I specialize in skin care solutions, age fighting skin care, foundation shade & match, color consultations, & fragrance and body care. Call for a Free makeover @ 334-2014468 or Visit my website: www.marykay.com/ansalaam

Thirty-One Gifts

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

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Montgomery Parents I July 2013

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HELPFUL

Advertising Information

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

Welcome to the Montgomery Parents’ Advertiser Directory. This section was created to help our readers easily access advertising information in our magazine. We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name. A Great Start Learning Academy, 77

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 83

Montgomery Taekwondo, 92

Adventure Sports II, 66

Evangel Christian Academy, 34

Montgomery Zoo, 75

Alabama Army National Guard, 28

Extermitech Pest Control, 92

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 92

Alabama Christian Academy, 2

Family Karate Center, 3

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes at, 19

Alabama Dance Theater, 24

First UMC, Montgomery, 33

New Park, 1

Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front

First UMC, Prattville, 54

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 43

Alabama River Region Ballet, 8

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 83

PALS, 73

ALFA Insurance, Jeff Knee, 47

Frazer United Methodist Church, 46

P’zazz Art Studio, 75

Arts in Motion, 71

Gateway Academy, 15

ASKIN/Synergy House, 92

Greengate School, 4

AUM Continuing Education, 38

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 31

Auditory/Visual Enhancement, 27

Hooper Academy, 28

AWOT True Blessing Child Care, 93

Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 77

Baptist East Hospital, 9

Huntington Learning Center, 35

Baptist Health, 51

Kindercare, 85

Born to Dance Studio, 93

Kingry Orthodontics, 53

Bradford Health Services, 81

Kreative Moments, 92

Bradley’s Events and Decor, 61

Kumon East, 17

Brian Hodges Music Lessons, 92

Laura’s School of Dance, 48

Buckmasters Expo, 32

Learning Tree Child Care, 40

Catoma Baptist Church Preschool, 18

Lesyn’s Handbags, 93

Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 14

Looney’s Super Skate, 59

Century 2000 Daycare, 20

Lori Mercer Photography, 53

Chapman Orthodontics, 87

Many Things, 37

Churchill Academy, 54

Mathnasium, 44

Cupcakes by Tish, 60

Maya’s Dance & Fitness, 18, 57

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 73

Cupcake Couture, 62

Mom’s Flea Market & Consignment, 21

The Big Green Bus, 67

Dance Generation, 90

Montessori @ Hampstead, 69

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Dancewear, Etc., 93

Montessori @ Mulberry, 63

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 35

Debra’s Pet Care, 93

Montessori Academy, 89

United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 47

Dentistry for Children, 39

Montgomery Advertiser, 13

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 25

Dept. of Transportation, 39

Montgomery Ballet, 59

Vaughn Road Preschool, 73

Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 55

Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center, 20

Vishnu Dental, 24

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 43

Montgomery Humane Society, 49

Waterville USA, 87

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 66

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 70

Wonder World, 64

Eastdale Mall, 7

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 48 95

Zackery Burr, Attorney, 42

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters, 92 Pediatric Cardiology, 71 Piano Instructor-Skye Jenkins, 92 Playtime, Inc., 93 Professional Pediatrics, 12 Pump It Up Party, 57 Riverview Camp, 30 Rolling Video Games of AL, 63 Ross Christian Academy, 32 Saint James School, 21 Saint James UMC, Inside Back Cover Shade Tree Riding Academy, 75 Smiles Galore Parties, 62 Spacewalk of Montgomery, 65 Spacewalker, The, 61 Spotless Cleaning Services, 11 Success Unlimited Academy, 23 Sylvan Learning Center, 37

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Monster University

World War Z

MPAA Rating: G Time: 110 min. Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Monster University G. Mike Wazowski (voice by Billy Crystal) and James P. Sullivan (voice by John Goodman) weren’t always the Scare Floor Dream Team at the Monsters, Inc. power company. In fact there was a time when they could hardly stand each other. In this prequel to the 2001 animation Monsters, Inc., Sulley and Mike are among the freshman class entering the Scare program on the hallowed campus at Monsters University. For Mike, it’s a lifetime dream come true. For Sulley, it’s the fulfillment of family expectations. Unfortunately for both of them, it’s a big disappointment when they are ousted from the program after accidentally destroying a cherished memento belonging to the school’s Dean Hardscrabble (voice by Helen Mirren). The only way to get back in is to prove themselves at the upcoming Scare Games. But to do so they need to be part of a campus fraternity. And the only one still taking applicants is the OK House. While the Scare Games resemble a reality-TV episode, the story focuses less on the actual competitions and more on the preparations that happen between events. This mishmash of monsters learns to work together, to appreciate and use their individual talents and to take responsibility for their mistakes and choices. Most of all, Sulley and Mike overcome their aversion to one another and begin a lifelong friendship that follows them into the future. Like the first movie that depicted children’s screams as a power source for the city, Monster University probably isn’t for the very youngest of audience members. There are still plenty of moments of peril and scenes where the scary creatures sneak into a simulated bedroom and elicit screams from a sleeping child. And like some college students, these monsters get involved in brief illegal activities that have them hightailing it from the law. Yet for older children and their parents, this animated adventure blends a colorful cast of characters and some valuable life lessons in a delightful storyline about individual worth and a budding friendship. Living up to the old adage that opposites attract, the big blue beast and his little green friend demonstrate that the best things in life often come in pairs.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Time: 116 min. Overall: C Violence: CSexual Content: ALanguage: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated World War Z PG-13 for intense zombie sequences, violence and disturbing images. After taking a break from big action packed dramas, Brad Pitt plays Gerry Lane, a former United Nations investigator who left his globe-trotting job in dangerous locations to be home with his wife Karin (Mireille Enos) and two daughters (Sterling Jerins, Abigail Hargrove). However their peaceful life of pancake breakfasts is interrupted when a new plague begins spreading around the world, turning the human population into a mob of flesh-eating zombies. Plucked off the top of an apartment building, Gerry and his family are whisked away to a military ship in the middle of the ocean where the UN employee is given two options. He can either help locate the source of the plague or he and his family will be back on shore among the undead. Leaving his wife and kids in the belly of the aircraft carrier, he boards a plane and heads for South Korea with an eager young scientist (Elyes Gabel). Zombie movies have become something of a plague themselves, infesting movie theaters everywhere with bloody-mouthed soulless creatures. Don’t expect less from World War Z. Filled with the requisite depictions of gruesome and disturbing scenes, this movie zeroes in on the almost instantaneous transition from human to zombie. After being bitten, a character has only seconds before he or she begins convulsing wildly. The skin shrinks. The eyes take on a white milky glaze. In less than a minute the victim joins the throng of the surging undead. The only intervention seems to be hacking off the offending limb immediately after it’s been chomped. Along with other depictions of bloody wounds and damaged human tissue, the frequent violent encounters between the humans and zombies also include shootings, stabbings, mutilation, gunfire and huge explosions. Packed with improbable plot lines, questionable science and a disturbing solution to the zombie invasion, World War Z doesn’t wander far from what audiences will expect in this genre. However,the film tries to massage a message into all the mayhem. But any political point about the use of chemical warfare, isolationism or ineffective government leadership is lost when these zombies initiate World War Z.

What Parents need to know about World War Z...

What Parents need to know about Monster University...

Violence: News-type clips portray riots, wild beasts attacking and eating others, dead animals and disturbing natural events. Violent portrayals include a man being smashed by a vehicle, zombies attacking others, and characters threatening others with guns. A character accidentally shots himself. Bodies are seen hanging on a fence. Other corpses have been burned. Zombies clamor over one another in order to scale a wall. Bodies fall out of a plane before it crashes. A man is impaled with a piece of metal during the crash. Scenes of beating, stabbing, gunfire, bombings and explosions are shown. A character has her hand cut off. Other depictions of dismemberment and mutilation are shown. Characters engage in vicious hand-to-hand combat. Sexual Content: None noted. Language: The script contains a partial strong sexual expletive, infrequent scatological slang, profanities and some vulgar language. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character drinks to deal with pain.

Violence: A character deals with some moments of bullying in elementary school and university. Participants in an initiation process are each hit once with a flat bat. Characters run into spiked objects that cause instant inflammation during a game event. A character uses a sling shot to shoot one of these objects into the open mouth of a game player, causing his whole body to swell. Security officers chase characters on at least two occasions. Moments of brief peril and some jump scenes are included, along with frequent non-graphic violence. Monsters are shown in a comic content. Sexual Content: A character asks his new girlfriend to give him some sugar. Brief kissing is shown. Partial male buttock nudity is briefly seen after it becomes swollen. Language: The script includes brief name-calling. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2013

C o l l e g e

A cc e p t a n c e s

2 0 1 3

90% of the 48 member Class of 2013 received merit-based scholarships totaling $3.5 million.

With a

MAr k a b l e

education,the opportunities are endless.

Alabama A&M University Arizona State University Ashland University Auburn University Auburn University Montgomery Berry College Birmingham-Southern College Boston University Brenau University Clemson University College of Charleston Davidson College Furman University George Mason University Hillsdale College Huntingdon College James Madison University Louisiana State University Loyola University New Orleans Marshall University Millsaps College Mississippi State University New York University Ohio University Rhodes College Samford University Southern Methodist University Spring Hill College Stillman College St. John’s University

State University of New York at Purchase College Texas Christian University Texas Tech University The Ohio State University Troy University Tulane University University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham University of Arizona University of Arkansas University of Colorado at Boulder University of Denver University of Georgia University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Mississippi University of Montevallo University of North Carolina-Greensboro University of Rochester University of South Carolina University of the South: Sewanee University of Texas at Arlington University of Texas at Dallas University of Virginia University of Washington Wake Forest University Washington & Lee University Western Kentucky University Westminster Choir College

Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y T h e

P u r s u i t

o f

E x c e l l e n c e

Contact Susannah Cleveland, Director of Admissions susannah_cleveland@montgomeryacademy.org • 334.272.8210 • mon tgomeryacademy.org Financial Aid Available

MA05-26056-graduation-parents 6.13.indd 1

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

5/28/13 12:01 PM