You have the power to prevent some cancers in your children. Each year in the U.S. there are 26,000 cancer cases that could be prevented with human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. HPV vaccine can prevent 9 strains of cancer. Three doses of HPV vaccine should be given to adolescents aged 11-12 years before exposure to the virus. HPV vaccine costs are covered under most insurance programs, Medicaid, and the Vaccines for Children Program (VFC). To prevent HPV cancers, contact your healthcare provider or the county health department. Don’t delay, call today.
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Discovering the World Right from the Classroom Visit our state-of-the-art campus and you will see first-hand how your child’s education is enriched through experiential science, art, music, and world language labs from Pre-K3 through 12th grade.
Admissions Testing at STJ Take advantage of our Saturday testing option for fall 2016 rising 1st through 12th grade students. Call Walton Skelley at 334.273.2992 for complete testing and registration details. Testing for Grades 1-12: Saturday, May 7 (students must be registered for testing by April 29, 2016)
Saint James School FOR PRE-K3 THROUGH 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS
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Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
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Worship: Sundays 10am in the Pike Road School Offices 37 Bridge St. 334.801.8090
Worship: Sundays 8, 9:30 &11am Contemporary & Traditional 6000 Atlanta Hwy. 334.272.8622
Find Hope. Follow Jesus. www.frazer.church @frazerumc
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April2016
Volume 21 Number 4
66 Columns
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6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
30 Days to a Healthier Social Life
Choosing a Daycare
Use a few (or all) of these ideas to break out of the mommy blues.
Learn 10 important questions to ask before selecting where to place your child for care.
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen
42 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee
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48 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Andre L. Harrison
56 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
62 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith
Child Care Guide
Our 2016 listing of River Region daycares and preschools will get you started in your search.
Say Hello to Healthy Goodbyes
Find advice for negotiating separation anxiety better with toddlers.
On The Cover Emilee Ewer (age 5) and Kameron White (age 3) attend Vaughn Road Preschool in Montgomery. Emilee’s parents are Sharon Silverman and Kyle Ewer. She also has an older brother, Gabriel. Crystal Harris is the proud mom of Kameron. 5
64 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs
80 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 88 Calendar/Support Groups 99 Advertiser Directory 100 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Editor’sNote There’s nothing like welcoming spring temperatures and sunshine to make me come alive! I often feel like I’m hibernating through the winter, staying inside way too much and going to bed earlier because of the darkness. Now I find myself more excited about going out with friends, inviting folks over for patio time, and just feeling more social overall. As parents our lives revolve around our children to a great degree. Between their school schedules, after school activities, and all the ways we take care of them at home, our social lives may be non-existent sometimes. Studies show the importance of moms and dads connecting with other adults and finding time for their own hobbies and interests. If you find yourself discontent and in the rut of wake, work, eat, sleep, be sure to read Christa Hines’ article, 30 Days to a Healthier Social Life. With literally 30 suggestions, we can all find two or three ideas to add to our April! If you have young children, separation anxiety may be one reason you don’t often plan for adult fun outside the home. Having our children cry when we leave them can be heartbreaking and we may worry while we are away, overshadowing the good idea of planning the outing in the first place. However, separation anxiety is a normal part of childhood adjustment and how we handle it will speak volumes to our little ones. For advice to help you navigate this challenge, read Michele Ranard’s, Say Hello to Healthy Goodbyes. I remember well the first month of leaving our little Grace at her child care center. At first she seemed fine, almost like she was unsure what was going on or too excited to be dismayed. Then a few weeks into the experience she decided she would “let me know how much she loved me” by sobbing when I would leave. Fortunately, by the time her sweet teachers distracted her with a fun activity she would quiet down before I made it out of the building. And after a week or two, she walked into her classroom happily every day. Nothing can comfort a parent more than having a child care center and staff that can be trusted. When we leave our children to another’s care for a large part of the day, we have to know they are being nurtured in a healthy and safe environment. April is our Child Care Issue and we have resources to help you! First up, Sandra Gordon shares 10 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Daycare. The answers you discover will help you know if you’ve found the right place or should keep looking. Following her article is our 2016 Child Care Guide which includes details about River Region child care centers to help you narrow your search. You’ll find information including curriculum, ages, tuition, extra activities offered and more. Compile your smaller list after reading through ours, and then make some appointments to visit each center in person and ask them Sandra’s questions. Even after plenty of research, a parent’s gut instinct remains important in the decision-making process. Finally, with spring upon us, do check out our Bits ‘n Pieces and Family Calendar for plenty of ways to get outdoors with your family this month. Have a wonderful April!
The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
Montgomery Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Montgomery Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen David Drennan, M.D. Sandra Gordon Mark Gregston Andre L. Harrison Christa Hines Carolyn Jabs Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Gena Hill Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell
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Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2015 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Too Much After School Activity? Q: Is three hours of one sport once a week too much for a 7-year-old? This sport meets from 6-9 p.m. It is nearly 10 p.m. before child is in bed (as opposed to usual 8:30 bedtime). My husband thinks it’s OK. He points out that our son’s homework is not suffering and he’s not sleep deprived (though he’s often grumpy the next morning). This activity takes place on Tuesdays, which has the potential to become three nights of later-than-hoped-for bedtimes due to church on Wednesday evenings and another activity on Thursdays. I would appreciate your thoughts on this. A: Well, your husband could
well argue that you’ve asked the wrong guy. Two reasons: First, I am completely against adult appropriation and micromanagement of activities that children once organized and “managed” themselves; second, while I sometimes enjoy watching a good college or professional sports matchup, I care not who wins. I liberated myself from sports long ago and have no regrets. I save lots of emotional and mental energy for far better purposes.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
I realize the adults who run children’s sports programs are well intentioned, but the children in question are not deriving the full benefit of learning decision-making, problemresolution, and leadership skills. I maintain they aren’t even learning the true art of teamwork. All that went out the window when “involvement” became a parenting buzzword. Adults have turned what was once fun into performance events. The alternative— which I’ve previously written about in this column and in several of my books—is for a minimum number of adults to supervise children’s sports events, but for the kids to pick captains who pick teams (thus, team makeup is always different) and for the children themselves to decide who plays what position and resolve disagreements. Take it from a guy who played lots of “sandlot” sports when he was a youngster, the learning that takes place within that context is invaluable, both short- and long-term. I even believe
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that bullying would become much less of a problem under those circumstances. I also maintain that organized afterschool pursuits of whatever sort should not regularly preclude relaxed family meals, family activities and obligations, a child’s ability to do his or her homework without feeling rushed, chores, or an adequate amount of sleep (which varies from child to child). Then there’s the matter of your child’s thoughts on the subject. What does he think about all of this? Is he “invested” in this sport or is he simply doing what his dad wants him to do? If given the opportunity to quit (which, believe me, does not doom a child to being a life-long quitter), would he take it? Having said all that, my best answer to your question is that when mom and dad disagree about a parenting issue and can’t find a compromise, the default position should always be “no.” That understanding, entered into by both parents willingly, saves lots of emotional energy. It means that one person “wins” sometimes, the other person at other times. Very civilized, if you ask me (which you did). Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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Second Saturdays
Every second Saturday April through August, you are invited to Riverfront Park for a day full of family-friendly fun! The fun includes live entertainment, interactive activities for kids, various food & drink vendors and adult libations at the SandBAR at the Silos. $1 Admission, 12 and under free. All proceeds benefit local charities. For more info, call (334) 625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com/.
Wetumpka Craterfest
April 16 * 2-7 p.m. Sponsored by Wind Creek Wetumpka Hotel & Casino, the City of Wetumpka, and the Wetumpka Crater Commission, the fourth annual Craterfest will be held at Gold Star Park in downtown Wetumpka. Come join us for music, concessions, arts & crafts, free kidzone, bounce houses, train, swings, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo,dino dig, crater mini-tours, Wetumpka Rotary Club River Region Duck Dash and more! Parking is limited, but may be found in downtown Wetumpka or at the churches across the Bibb Graves Bridge. Main Street will not be closed off to traffic. Kidzone will be open 2 -5 p.m. Visit www.wetumpkachamber.com/Craterfest.html for details.
For info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. Home Opener April 12 * Start time 7:05 p.m. Each fan receives a voucher for a free hot dog. Autograph Day April 23 * Start time 6:35 p.m. Sponsored by Montgomery Advertiser, fans will have the opportunity to collect autographs of players and coaches on the field prior to the game. Fans will also receive a 2016 team poster. Bark in the Park/Kids Day April 24 * Start time 2:05 p.m. Take your furry friend to the ballgame! All dogs get in free! Every Sunday afternoon game, kids will have the chance to play catch on the field prior to the game and run the bases after the game!
Cloverdale-Idlewild Spring Concert Series
April 3, 10, 17 & 24, May 8, 15 & 22 4-7 p.m. Cloverdale Bottom Park, intersection of Cloverdale Road and Ponce de Leon Avenue, Montgomery. ADMISSION IS FREE! Bring your chairs or blankets, coolers and snacks. Plan to sit under the beautiful oak trees in the park setting and enjoy the music. Leashed dogs are also welcome, so bring your furry babies as well. April 3: Blackbird Pickers, April 10: Ed Pickett, April 17: Ziggy and April 24: Gypsy Cornbread. Find us on Facebook.
Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Events
Spring Concert
April 14 * 7 p.m. at Frazer UMC The Capitol Sounds Concert Band will perform a wide variety of music, and feature Eduardo Hernandez, winner of the 2nd Annual Young Artist Solo Competition. In addition to the soloist, the Capitol Sounds will perform classical, traditional and popular music styles. The event is free and open to the public, but donations are gladly accepted and will go toward the Young Artist Solo Competition, which annually awards the top two local undergraduate college students that compete in instrumental music. For more info, visit www.capitolsounds.org or call (334) 324-8661.
Agape’s Run for a Mom 5K and Fun Run
Herb Day Festival @ Old Alabama Town
On Saturday, May 7, the Old Alabama Town Herb Society (OATHS) is hosting its 19th annual Herb Day Festival. The festival will take place in the Living Block of Old Alabama Town from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free to the public The annual Herb Day festival is a fun-filled, public educational event for the entire family. Lectures and demonstrations will feature experts on identifying, growing and using herbs as well as a live cooking demonstration. There will be music, children’s activities and the opportunity to find that perfect Mother’s Day gift in the open air market. A variety of vendors will sell garden-related wares including a huge selection of herbs and other plants, crafts, herbal teas, goat cheeses, and various and sundry yard art. For more info, visit www.oathsblog. com or call (334) 240-2290.
May 7 * 7-10 a.m. Vaughn Park Church of Christ. Honor a special woman when you run this Mother’s Day weekend, whether it’s the lady you call “mom” or a special lady you’ve always adored. Whoever it is, make sure to wear or carry something while you run to serve as a reminder of her. For info, call (334) 272-9466 or visit www.runforamom.org. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Urban Slide is Back!!
May 7-8 The Urban Slide is bringing 1,000 feet of slippery sliding to Montgomery! Visit this family-friendly event as we slip, slide, and party until after nightfall where you can also enjoy the glow-inthe-dark night slide! The slide will be set up downtown on Montgomery Street. A constant stream of water flowing down both channels helps make the slide slippery. The nighttime slide is equipped with LED lights and black lights that will light up the city streets for a truly unique slip-n-slide experience. Other features and amenities of The Urban Slide will include food trucks, vendors and local businesses, music playing along the entire slide, a bag check area to secure footwear and other belongings, water-themed games, photo booth, and more! Registration ranges from $10-$30. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. For more info, visit www.theurbanslide.com/events/ montgomery-al/.
‘The Art of Baking’ Puppet Show
April 5-7 * 9:30 & 10:45 a.m. At the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, children “visit” a bakery run by colorful animals from different parts of the world, while learning that the bakery’s cakes are created using color, shape, and line. The Art of Baking is geared for three- to sixyear-olds. The shows are by reservation only and are free. Please contact Jill at (334) 240-4359 for more info.
Alabama Book Festival: Year of Alabama Makers Saturday, April 23 * 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus Street. Free admission. With lots of authors, vendors and exhibitors, this free public event is the state’s premier literary event. A fun activity area for children makes this a day of fun for the entire family! Authors include Rick Bragg, Steve Flowers, Homer Hickam, Rheta Grimsley Johnson and Julian McPhillips. For more info and a complete list of authors, visit http://alabamabookfestival.org or call 1-888-240-1850.
3 Doors Down with The Glorious Sons Saturday, May 7, at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $38. Bill Engvall Saturday, May 14, at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $45.
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MPAC Presents
Tickets may be purchased by calling (334) 481-5100 or visiting www.mpaconline.org. Black Jacket Symphony Presents Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here Saturday, April 9, at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $29. Jethro Tull Friday, April 15, at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $47.50.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
Hidden Dangers in Plain Sight Most parents are aware of obvious dangers in their homes. We know about poisonous household products that most people keep under their kitchen sink. We know to keep sharp objects away from children. We know to teach them that the stove is hot and not to touch it. However, there are many dangers in the home that are not as obvious and can be even potentially deadly. Here are some hidden dangers to be aware of. Button batteries - These are the small, flat batteries used in watches and electronic devices. There is a choking hazard from these batteries, but the more serious hazard is when they are ingested. They produce an electrical current causing a localized burn in the intestinal wall. If the batteries stay in one spot for more than one to two hours, they can erode through the intestine leading to very serious injury. Obviously, the child will need to go to the hospital Emergency Room immediately when the ingestion is recognized. Magnets – Small magnets such as refrigerator door magnets can cause significant injury if two or more magnets are swallowed together. When this happens, they can be attracted to each other through
the intestinal wall and prevent blood flow to that part of the intestine and eventually lead to a puncture of the intestine similar to button batteries. Again, immediate medical care should be sought. Coins – Coin ingestions are very common and usually cause little problem since they are just passed through the intestinal tract. However, occasionally the coin will be aspirated into the airway producing difficulty breathing or coughing episodes. Emergency care is necessary if any respiratory symptoms are noted since complete obstruction of the airway is possible. Hand sanitizer – This is perfectly safe when used as intended, but the problem occurs when it is ingested. Hand sanitizers contain between 45% to 95% alcohol which is the amount contained in alcoholic drinks. Just two to three squirts are enough to cause symptoms of alcohol intoxication. When allowing children to use hand sanitizers, be sure to monitor them closely and not allow them to use it unsupervised. Detergent pods – This is a relatively new product in which liquid laundry detergent is marketed in single use pods
rather than in the traditional container. To a child, these pods could be easily mistaken for a toy or candy. Regular liquid laundry detergent usually causes mild symptoms of nausea or vomiting. Ingestion of pods, however, cause much more serious symptoms of lethargy, confusion, vomiting, coughing, wheezing, seizures, and coma. Many children have been hospitalized and deaths have occurred. The pods probably are more likely to cause such severe symptoms because the detergent is more concentrated and they ingest more. There are many more products around the home that are hazardous to children including plants, lead paint, and small objects that cause a choking hazard. Young children less than five to six years old are most likely to encounter these dangers, so it is extremely important for parents not to take anything for granted and monitor their children’s environment at all times. Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys college sports with his wife Cathy who is an attorney.
Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy
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Where Have All The Heroes Gone?
Recently, I overhead a gentleman making the remark, “It seems that all heroes only become heroes posthumously.” I agree many receive deep reflection after they are gone. For example, my parents are deceased and even as I cherished their lives while they lived, today I am even more convinced of the wonder of them both. However, the real truth is that the only thing that stands between a living hero and his/her acknowledgement is the time that one would take to tell someone about it. We must choose to be more outwardly and timely grateful to the many everyday heroes who make such amazing sacrifices--great or small.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
Heroes come in all shapes and sizes and ages. We all know of the police, firefighters, and other first responders and how they put their lives on the line daily. Perhaps you heard about the Florida female sheriff’s deputy who injured herself last month reaching into a burning car to free an unconscious woman from certain death. And here at home, I hope you learned that Montgomery Public Schools third grade student Christopher Wheeler was recently hailed as a hero. He stopped a truck he was riding in when his neighbor, who was driving the truck, had a medical emergency. State Troopers say Christopher’s actions likely saved his life, his neighbor’s life and others who were driving near the out-of-control truck. You don’t have to stop a runaway vehicle or pull someone from an inferno to be a hero. Simply being a positive model to children is heroic today! A parent who overcomes seemingly insurmountable obstacles to ensure their
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family has food and shelter; a teacher who chooses to go beyond the norm to help a student attain a sought-after goal; a neighbor who takes food next door to someone who is having medical or other difficulties are all heroes. While these may seem like small gestures, even these acts of kindness are becoming more and more uncommon. Where have all the heroes gone? They are still here. They are living in our homes, neighborhoods and communities. They are making choices to encourage and support and love their families and neighbors. They are standing in the gap for needs that become apparent. Look around…it could be you. If you are today’s hero, thank you so very much for caring. Our children are watching and in need of men and women like you. Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.
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Montgomery County Schools
Tate Breaks 1,000 Career Points for Catholic
Goodwyn Middle Offers ‘Pats on the Back’
Goodwyn Middle School recently recognized its outstanding teachers, staff and students with a new monthly “Pat On the Back” award. Faculty and staff vote to select a teacher, staff member and student from each grade level who they feel has exhibited high character and academic achievement and service to the Warrior family. The winners were Coach Pat Garner (teacher of the month), Juanita Mincey (staff person of the month), Destiny Burton (sixth-grade student of the month), Freddie Paul (seventhgrade student of the month) and Clarissa Bullard (eighth-grade student of the month). They were presented certificates and gift cards.
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s varsity girls’ basketball team made it to the 2016 AHSAA Regional Tournament held in Dothan on February 22. The Knights finished the season 18-11. After placing third at the CCC Christmas Tournament and winning the Knights of Columbus Tournament, the Knights won the area championship for the first time since 2002 before competing at the regional tournament. Junior Iyana Tate finished the season with 330 points and 326 rebounds. She had 16 double doubles for the season. She made the Area All-Tournament Team and the Region All-Tournament Team. She broke 1,000 points at the regional tournament, finishing with 1,013 points on February 22. Montgomery Catholic honored Tate after the school Mass on February 26. She was presented with a basketball commemorating her accomplishment by Athletic Director Daniel Veres and Coach Jill Clark. Shown with Tate are Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School President Anne Ceasar, parents Athena and Cedric Tate, Coach Jill Clark and Athletic Director Daniel Veres.
Holy Cross Low Country Boil and Auction
Mark your calendars! Holy Cross Episcopal School’s annual Low Country Boil and Auction fundraiser will be on Sunday, April 17. Support Holy Cross while shopping for unique and wonderful wares, enjoying a delicious meal, and engaging in heartfelt fellowship. If you are interested in being a sponsor for the event, please call (334) 395-8222 or e-mail hces@holycrossmontgomery.org.
Academy Sophomores Attend Capstone Leadership Academy
Montgomery Academy sophomores Mary Stewart Shegon and Brown Simmons were accepted to the 2016 Capstone Leadership Academy at The University of Alabama. Nominated by their high school counselors, one hundred sophomores throughout the state who have shown an interest in leadership through service participate in the twoday workshop sponsored by The University of Alabama Honors College. The Academy provides tools and training through talks and discussions focusing on values, vision and voice for students to apply to leadership opportunities in their communities.
McKee Middle School Choir Performs for Television
The McKee Middle School Choir performed on Alabama Live to promote Montgomery Public Schools’ 3rd annual Montgomery Music Festival held at Aldersgate United Methodist Church on March 17. The event recognizes national Music in Our Schools Month and the festival included performances by choirs from McKee Middle, Carr Middle, Baldwin Middle, Bellingrath Middle, Brewbaker Middle, BTW Magnet High, Jeff Davis High Davisinians, Carver High School, and Park Crossing High. It was organized by choral directors Anita Roberson from McKee Middle and Christine Moore from Carr Middle. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Montgomery County Schools
Bethany Christian Academy Honors Local Luminaries
A Grand Day at ECA
The elementary students at Evangel Christian Academy recently invited their grandparents to spend time with them at school. The students from the K4 class through 6th grade enjoyed lunch, a book fair, and a special chapel service with their grandparents. During chapel, Pastor Michael Rippy, senior pastor of Evangel Church and president of ECA, spoke about the importance of grandparents in today’s society. Each class sang a special song for the honored guests.
On February 22, the faculty, staff and students of Bethany Christian Academy hosted civil rights icons Robert and Jeannie Graetz. BCA’s relationship with this trailblazing duo spans 10 years and the Graetzes continue to live busy and productive lives that include guest speaking engagements all over the country. Additionally, they serve as ambassadors for Alabama State University, where Mrs. Graetz recently donned her cap and gown to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree at age 84. The Graetzes continue the legacies of their dear friends Dr. and Mrs. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Dr. Ralph Abernathy and attorney E.D. Nixon as they build bridges of love and peace in the community.
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Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Incoming Pike Road Kindergartners Invited to Kickoff April 25
Come experience the “Pike Road Way” in Community K! Parents and incoming kindergarteners are invited to attend the Pike Road School Kindergarten Kickoff April 25 any time between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Parents will be able to complete registration, sign up for PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association), pre-order supply kits and order T-shirts for the 2016-17 school year. For more info, find us on Facebook.
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Floyd Middle Magnet Competes in Alabama History Day Events
Students from Floyd Middle Magnet School recently attended Alabama History Day at AUM. Alabama History Day is a contest in which junior and high school students present papers, displays, websites, performances, and documentaries on historical topics. The top two entries from each category have the opportunity to attend the National History Day contest in Washington, DC in June. The topic for this year was “Exploration, Encounters, and Exchange in History.” Floyd students Bailey Lanier and Davis Baker won first place in the category of group documentary. Lauren Bonikowski won second place for her individual display. Kolbi Bates, Tori Barlow, and Zoe Phothisane won third place for their group display. Floyd history teacher is Mrs. Robinson.
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More than 60 Alabama Christian Academy students brought snacks for the faculty room for Teachers and Staff Appreciation Week. More than 20 students were involved in cooking, serving and cleaning up for a pancake breakfast for the teachers during one of those days. A dozen students spent hours on campus one Sunday to decorate the classroom doors. Six students spoke at elementary chapel to honor the elementary teachers. Special thanks to the Positive Vibes Team for the brainstorming, planning and execution of this special week. On the final day, all secondary students dressed in formal wear to honor faculty and staff, who got to walk through red carpet, worthy of an Oscar event gala, when entering the multi-purpose room for a special Chapel. Senior Lauren Henry and junior Colton Kasarjian are shown with pancakes hot off the griddle.
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Montgomery County Schools
BTW Students Participate in Chinese New Year Celebration
Five students from Booker T. Washington Magnet High School participated in the annual Chinese New Year celebration jointly hosted by Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute and the Central Alabama Association of Chinese (CAAC) on February 7. Joslyn Berg, Payton Kerr, Jaida Smith, Collin Stephens, and Rachel Thompson were honored to be invited to demonstrate the traditional Chinese art of Kung Fu. These students were part of a group of seven Montgomery area high school students that traveled to China last July to participate in Chinese Bridge Summer Camp. This camp is an annual Chinese language and culture experience sponsored by Hanban with the cooperation of Confucius Institutes all over the world. Aside from visiting Beijing, the Montgomery group spent time in the Henan province at the Shaolin Temple and Wushu College where they studied Chinese language and Kung Fu.
Mt. Meigs Celebrates Read Across America
Mt. Meigs Accelerated Christian Academy celebrated Read Across America and Dr. Seuss’s birthday the week of March 1. On March 2, the students and staff dressed as Dr. Seuss characters and the school administrator read The Cat In The Hat to the students. The children enjoyed a week long of activities geared toward celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday.
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Catholic’s Science Olympiad Team Brings Home Awards
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory’s high school campus Science Olympiad team competed in Tuscaloosa February 20. The team brought home eight top four awards including: 2nd Place Green Generation, Marissa Dogan and Lisa Hong; 2nd Place Invasive Species, Marissa Dogan and Jonathan Green; 2nd Place Robot Arm, Michael Barber and Martin Lee; 2nd Place Electric Vehicle, Michael Barber and Martin Lee; 3rd Place Chemistry Lab, Ivy Bach and Lita Blackburn; 3rd Place Disease Detectives, Marissa Dogan and Lisa Hong; 3rd Place Astronomy, Lita Blackburn and Lisa Hong; and 4th Place Chemistry Lab, Christopher DeJesus and Alix Smith. Science and math teachers Elizabeth Harbin, Jeanene Crenshaw, Joe Profio and Monica Hamell coached and assisted the team.
Pike Road Collecting Items for World’s Fair Event
Pike Road School’s students are searching for items to use at their World’s Fair happening on May 5. This fair is designed to increase understanding and appreciation of cultures around the world. If you have lived in or visited another country and are willing to share your experiences with PRS students, please contact Pike Road School at (334) 420-5310 or e-mail catherine.kenny@pikeroadschools.org. Students are also searching for items to help create their World’s Fair displays. If you are doing some spring cleaning and run across any of the items listed, please drop them off at Pike Road School, 500 Avenue of Learning. Needed items include: air dry clay, string, yarn, wire, paint: red, yellow, blue, green, pink, orange, white, black, brown, beige, gold, spray paint: white, black, gold, bronze, silver, brown, copper, stone textured spray paint, gears, chains, pine-cones, toilet paper and paper towel rolls, boxes of various sizes, construction paper, markers, small pieces of wood, and Styrofoam blocks.
Eastwood Performs Les Miserables
Eastwood Christian School performed the musical Les Misérables, a French historical novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862, that is considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century. Pictured are Trey Hawkins, Mikey Kometer, Cami Phillips, Claude Newsome and Anna Kometer. 21
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Cornerstone Excels in History Day Competition
Macon East Students Complete D.A.R.E. Program
Macon East Academy fifth-graders participate each year in the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program sponsored by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department. Corporal Koffee Anderson has been leading the D.A.R.E. program for several years and has built a wonderful relationship with the students and faculty. Meeting every Friday morning from September until January, the students have learned about drugs and their harmful effects as well as bullying. In a ceremony held January 29, the fifth-graders each received a certificate and a special memento from Corporal Anderson.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy students have competed and won the honor of representing the state of Alabama during the National History Day competition later this summer. National History Day is a highly regarded academic program for middle and high school students. Each year more than half a million students choose historical topics related to a nationally chosen theme and conduct extensive primary and secondary research. After analyzing and interpreting their sources, students present their original work in a variety of categories. This year Cornerstone students received awards in the following categories: first place in Senior Individual Performance went to Hannah Taunton. In the Senior Paper, first place was awarded to Crystal Klose and second place to Amy Collins. Group Website was won by Hannah Hough and Harrison Estes, while Halie Hammonds, Madelyn Donaldson and Caroline Parsons received third place. Individual website was won by senior Matthew Taunton. In addition, Sarah Hardgrave and Olivia Horne placed first in Senior Group Documentary. Hannah Taunton was also honored for designing the winning T-shirt and button logo for the State of Alabama. The Cornerstone students are scheduled to attend the national competition at the University of Maryland in June. Hannah and Matthew Taunton are shown.
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BrewTech Participates in YMCA Youth Legislature
Eleven Brewbaker Technology Magnet School students participated in the 68th Alabama YMCA Youth Legislature Conference February 26-28. The conference is a mock state government program where high school students from all over the state come to the Alabama State House in downtown Montgomery to participate in the three branches of government. Other students serve as lobbyists and members of the media. Justin Davis and Steven Higgins were delegates in the Senate. Hannah Owens, Zariah Robinson, Austin Smith and Ty Tompkins were members in the House. Savannah Brock, Brantley Gandy, India Richardson and Jonathan Strange served in the First Year House. Richardson’s bill to legalize the lottery in Alabama was selected by Youth Governor Noah McNelley as a special order bill and was placed second on the First Year docket. Richardson also received the First Year Best Bill Award. Amelia Blair was Brew Tech’s first student to be a member of the media staff. She worked tirelessly taking pictures and writing for the numerous publications and social media sites that were updated throughout the weekend. After a busy weekend of debate, campaigns and elections for next year’s officers, and the Governor’s Ball, the weekend culminated with an awards ceremony. Gandy was selected as an Outstanding Delegate in the First Year House. Davis and Higgins were honored as seniors who had participated three or four consecutive years in the Youth Legislature Program. They were given special red, white, and blue honor cords to wear at graduation in May. Higgins was also awarded the Bill Barringer Scholarship Award for his great dedication to the program, as well as the Jere Hardy Award for Outstanding Statesmanship in the Senate and he was chosen to attend the Conference on National Affairs in North Carolina this summer. The students were accompanied by Teresa Baxley, Brew Tech teacher advisor, and Lynn Higgins, the parent advisor.
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ACA Holds Annual Blood Drive
Alabama Christian Academy had another successful blood drive on January 27. More than 130 units of blood were collected from students, parents, friends, faculty and staff for the Red Cross. Many students gave blood for the first time and after the initial nervousness wore off, they were proud that they helped someone who might be in need of blood during surgery. This event was put together by the ACA National Honor Society under the leadership of science teacher Andrea Overman. Above, ACA new Head of School, Dr. Misty Overman, and NHS member, Emma Lane Benson.
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Montgomery Academy Named Most Outstanding Delegation at Youth Legislature
Pike Road’s Creative History Unit
Pike Road School Community Eight learners, Brandon and Tyler, recreated the Taj Mahal in a sculpture!
Catholic Wrestler Claims Fifth State Championship
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School junior Zachary Van Alst claimed his fifth consecutive Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) wrestling state championship February 20 in Huntsville, this year capturing the title in the Class 1A-5A, 132-pound weight class. Van Alst finished the 2016 season undefeated with a record 50-0. In his five-year career at Montgomery Catholic, Van Alst has won four sectional titles to go along with his five state championships, while recording an overall career record of 23312. He was also named Most Valuable Wrestler of the State Tournament for Class 1A-5A. He was joined in Huntsville by his teammate, senior Gabe Keating. Keating won sectionals at 160 pounds and made his second State Tournament appearance. The Knights are coached by head coach Coy Hunter and assistant coach David Parker. Zachary is the son of Jennifer and Bob Van Alst of Prattville. Gabe is the son of John and Melynda Keating of Montgomery. MCPS Coach Hunter is shown with five-time state champion Zachary Van Alst. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
In February, twenty-six Montgomery Academy high school Government Club members attended the 68th Alabama YMCA Youth Legislature. The conference takes place primarily in the State House, where students run the show for an entire weekend, presenting bills they research and author in committee and then debating the same bills on the House, Senate, or First Year chamber floor. Former Youth Governor Allison Inscoe Chandler and Blaine Wheeler serve as adult volunteers in the chamber. Seven Montgomery Academy freshmen participated in the first year chamber. They were Caroline Deale, Carson Roth, Roma Pirnie, Hannah Hale, Bradley Westhauser, Carter Chander and Will Hamlett. Each student participated in Jr. Youth Legislature, a one-day program for middle school students, last year. This year, each student debated vigorously on the floor. In addition to challenging the constitutionality of a first year bill and winning his challenge in front of the student-led Supreme Court, Hamlett was named one of several outstanding participants in the chamber. Chandler was named most outstanding participant in the chamber. Each was also named an alternate participant to the YMCA’s annual Conference on National Affairs in Blue Ridge, North Carolina, this summer. Chandler and Hamlett are following their older brothers as participants in this conference. Montgomery Academy senior William Chandler was the conference’s lieutenant governor this year, while classmate Henry Hamlett served as Speaker of the House. Each received a bid to the Conference on National Affairs. Hamlett and Chandler were also honored as high school seniors with three or more years of participation in the Youth in Government program, together with Michael Butler, Jack Bargainer and Gabbi Pohlman, who also received the Sunshine Award, recognizing leadership, service, and commitment to faith and friendship in memory of Brittany Shepherd Pugh. Pohlman also served on the Governor’s Cabinet with Montgomery Academy juniors Ellen Park and Ford Cleveland, who each had a busy weekend running for office and debating their own bills. Cleveland’s bill to give employers tax breaks through job fairs was on the Special Order Calendar, passed in both the House and the Senate, and was signed into law by 2016 Youth Governor Noah McNelley, of Trinity Presbyterian School. Park ran for 2017 Lieutenant Governor and won. Cleveland ran for 2017 Youth Governor and won. Cleveland, Park, and Pohlman are all looking forward to attending the Conference on National Affairs in July. In addition to its First Year chamber participants, Montgomery Academy had nine other students participate for the first time. They were John Koo (reading clerk in the House), John Wakefield (House), Fred Tippett (House), Talya Whyte (Chief Justice, 2016, CONA nominee), Laurel Buettner (Supreme Court clerk), Margaret Canary (lobbyist), Anne Morgan Cousins (lobbyist), Michael Kelly (lobbyist), and Annabel Roth (House). Other Montgomery Academy participants included Griffin Payne (House), who ran for and won the position of House Floor Leader, and Camp Spain (House sergeant of arms), and Ann Vivian Spencer (Supreme Court justice). CONA alternate nominees include Koo, Payne, Butler and Spencer. The Montgomery Academy students won the Most Outstanding Delegation award for the 68th Alabama YMCA Youth Legislature. Government Club advisor is Stephanie Hill.
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STJ Speech & Debate Takes Top Spot in Vestavia
Saint James students took top honors at the Vestavia Hills High School Over the Mountain Classic Speech and Debate Tournament February 26-27. For individual events, Saint James sophomore Nathan Ashner received First Place in Original Oratory, and Second Place in Impromptu Speaking. Juniors Cassidy Duncan and Olivia White received First Place in Duo Interpretation and Duncan also received Fourth Place in Original Oratory. Senior Bradley Wascher received Second Place in Extemporaneous Speaking. Senior Erika Aho received Second Place in Humorous Interpretation and Fourth Place in Prose Interpretation. Junior Henry Olree took Third Place in Extemporaneous Speaking. For Debate, Saint James junior Gibeom Kim received Second Place in Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate. Junior Mason Edwards and freshman Salena Bulls were Quarter Finalists in Public Forum Debate. As a team, Saint James was awarded First Place Overall at the tournament. Speech and Debate tournaments are held at the local, district, and national level throughout the year to enable high school students to earn rewards for their practice and commitment to one or more competitive events. Saint James School Speech & Debate Coach Dr. Ian Turnipseed is shown with his First Place Team at Vestavia High School. Back row from left with Turnipseed are Bradley Wascher, Jacob Pritchett, Matthew Nelson, Gibeom Kim, Mason Edwards, Erika Aho, Henry Olree and JB Ramsey; front from left: Lauren Sullivan, Nathan Ashner, Jason Grate, Cassidy Duncan, Selena Bulls and Olivia White.
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MEA’s Allen Recognized as DAR Good Citizen
Macon East Academy student Grace Allen was selected as one of five area recipients for this year’s Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award. The DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, created in 1934, is intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship. This award recognizes individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. These students are selected by their teachers and peers because they demonstrate these qualities to an outstanding degree. Allen was honored to attend this year’s luncheon at the Montgomery Country Club and was recognized by the Montgomery Chapter of DAR for her achievements.
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Holy Cross Episcopal School Receives Commendation
Alabama Christian Academy Choral Goes to All State
Several Alabama Christian Academy choral students participated in the Alabama AllState Choral Festival. This is the highest honor for choral singing in the state. Congratulations to the following: All-State Middle School Mixed Choir, Tyler Bradley and Caitlin Garnett; All-State High School SSA Choir, Katie McDonald; All-State SATB Choir, Sam McDonald, Jameela Broadie, Blake Mitchell, Landon Holladay and Turner Johnston.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
This year students at Holy Cross Episcopal School learned the correct way to display and care for the flag of the United States of America. Fifth- and sixth-grade students studied the proper care and respect of the flag as a part of their history class, and the entire school learned about it as a part of their Museum USA Kickoff in January. The school and its students were recognized for their efforts on February 25. The General Richard Montgomery Chapter of The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution sent two soldiers in period uniform to escort and assist students with displaying the flag that morning. The soldiers, Col. Larry Cornwell and Lt. Col. Tom Smith III, along with SAR President Gregory Holston and Flag Chairman Thomas Hawkins, attended morning chapel where they presented to the school a “Certificate of Commendation in Recognition of Exemplary Patriotism in the Display of the Flag of the United States of America.� After the presentation, members of the group shared information about the history of the flag. Students learned many things about the flag throughout the year, but one of their favorite memories will be the day two Revolutionary War soldiers visited their school to share with them what our flag represents.
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Bethany Christian Academy Sends Water to Michigan
Bethany Christian Academy’s students and their families recently reached out to Flint, Michigan, when details were reported about the lead-laced water that was being consumed by unsuspecting citizens. High toxicity levels in the water were producing grave illnesses and irreversible brain damage in children. Montgomery policeman and supportive alumnus of BCA, Officer Dustin Smith, challenged the school to collect 100 cases of water for the brothers and sisters of Flint. BCA exceeded the challenge but was faced with another crucial issue: transporting the water to Flint. Sis. Marilyn Watson suggested one of Bethany Church’s faithful deacons, custodian of BCA and former long-distance truck driver, Bro. James Shipman, and the rest is history. BCA kindergarten teacher Reggenia Baskin contacted Pastor Steve Bramwell of the Fairhaven S.D.A. Church in Flint, and on March 1, the entire BCA family gathered together as Pastor Jeffery Watson prayed for the safe delivery of the water and safe return of Shipman. When Shipman arrived in Flint the following day, he was met at the church which also serves as a distribution center. The 100-plus cases of water were unloaded with the help of Pastor Bramwell and others in spite of the frigid cold and nearly four feet of snow.
Where horses change lives!
SUMMER CAMPS throughout July SPRING SESSION
Pike Road School students worked hard to construct an orca whale. The original plan was for the orca to be 27 feet; however, since space was a factor, the 27-foot orca became a 20-foot orca. One group measured, cut and taped. Everyone helped to stuff bags. Then, students taped the bags together to make the body of the whale and covered him. The 20 feet of paper that was measured turned into a 13 foot whale once the stuffing was put in. Then, students attached the fluke and dorsal fin. He is massive, but not as big as originally planned. Standards covered in this research and construction included: science, English language arts, math and reading. Students are shown covering the whale.
MANE's instructors have successfully taught independent riding skills to many children with cerebral palsy, mental disabilities, autism, hearing impairment, and other disabilities. Some clients progress to riding completely independently (without side walkers or a horse handler) over the period of a 10-week session. Since goals are developed individually for each client, lessons may also underscore the strengthening of fundamental skills such as counting, identifying letters and colors, spelling, geography, or communication as well as developing memory. Instructors use games on horseback, signs, colored reins and other methods/tools to achieve educational objectives. Teachers of special education classes that have participated in the MANE program rave about the benefits that transfer from arena to classroom!
April 4-June 17 Applications Available Online www.maneweb.org Contact us at: 334-213-0909 equine.director.mane@gmail.com 27
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MEA Plays in AISA AllStar Basketball Game
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The Alabama Independent School Association East vs. West senior all-star basketball game was held February 19 at Huntingdon College. Representing Macon East on the East girls’ team were
Lexi Brantley, Jesi Garrett and Paxton Searle, and Mason Blackwell was selected to the East boys’ team. Each of these outstanding athletes enjoyed a few days of practice with their opponents from other AISA schools and the opportunity to get to know the other athletes as members of the same team. The East was victorious in both the girls’ and boys’ games. Carly Boutreis, Hannah Davis and Paxton Searle also represented MEA as members of the East cheerleading squad.
Academy Chorus Earns Superior Ratings
The Montgomery Academy Upper School Chorus received Superior Ratings at the Alabama Vocal Association’s State Choral Performance Assessment held this spring in Decatur. MA’s chorus performed two repertoire selections from memory for three judges and followed with a closed setting sight-read for one judge. Seventy members of the Academy’s Upper School Chorus scored 86 out of 87 on their performance assessments and 84 out of 88 on their sight-reads. These scores were among the highest of the week, given by Dr. Debra Spurgeon, Professor of Vocal Music at The University of Mississippi. The MA Chorus will compete in the National Competition in Seattle April 6-10. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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ECA Holds Annual Art Show
Evangel Christian Academy recently held its annual art show. In the Kindergarten and First Grade Division, included: Lillian Wellborn, Christian Brazil, Keyleigh Mertens, Audrey Kate Davis, Kaden Wilks, Coleman Fluker, Allie Cameron, Nia Kelly, Symone McNeil and John Thompson. In the Second and Third Grade Division, winners were: John Chon, Kendall Pullum, L’Oreal Lewis, Kaylee Carter, Maddy Chames, Jaden Martin, Eli Wilks and Morgan Thompson. The Upper Elementary Division winners were: Chelsea Trimble, Sarah Paterson, Karley Blankenship, Jada Bowens, A. J. McNeil, Owen Perkins, Tillmon Bethea, Jazni Lewis, Kennedy Holland, Amber Day and Rebecca Peters.
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s indoor track team had a great AHSAA State meet held in Birmingham February 5 and 6. The MCPS girls’ team brought home four firstplace titles and the boys’ team a second place in the 4 x 400 relay. Freshman phenom Amaris Tyynismaa won three individual state championships in the 800, 1600 and 3200 meter races, all events she currently holds the state record in. Tyynismaa also joined teammates Isabelle Cochran, Grace Leslie and Katelyn Stark at the podium when this relay team won the 4 x 800 meter relay. These knights were also joined by teammates Tamrah Tucker and Jimmiah Fenderson, who competed in the 60 meter dash among other events. The Montgomery Catholic boys’ team placed second in the 4 x 400 meter relay. Seniors Patrick O’Mara, Josh Seals and Brandon Thomas were joined by sophomore Ryan Seals to finish at 3:30.62 on Saturday and captured a medal. Teammates freshman Grant Walker and seventh-grader Hollis Johnson joined the Knights at State.
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ACA Model United Nations
Alabama Christian Academy competed at the University of Alabama Model United Nations in Tuscaloosa in February. The ACA team received the Outstanding Delegation Award. Other awards were: Jacey Slayton for best position paper in the Social-Humanitarian Organization, Phelps Griffin for best position paper in the World Health Organization, Aly Nguyen for best position paper in the Special Political Organization, Rebekah Foster received verbal commendation in the Atlantis Room, Will Shoemaker received Outstanding Delegate in the Kim Jong Un Room and Brandon Hightower received Best Delegate in the Russian Revolution Room.
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Academy Fourth Grade Art Highlighted During Clefworks Concert
Several Montgomery Academy Lower School artists were highlighted in the Clefworks performance by this year’s featured group, New York chamber music artists Sonic Escape at the City Auditorium. Students listened to a song titled “Ghost Ship” and were asked to respond to the music with art.
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STJ Sophomores Chosen for UA Capstone
Sophomores Nathan Ashner and Sydney Brashears were nominated by the Saint James high school faculty and selected by the University of Alabama Capstone Council to attend a two-day leadership conference in Tuscaloosa, March 3-4. Ashner and Brashears participated in leadership building roundtables and worked on collaborative projects and multiple presentations with other Academy students. They were also provided campus tours and introductions to administrators and student leaders from the University of Alabama Honors College. “What an honor it was to be selected by the Capstone Council to attend the Leadership Academy,” said Brashears. “Throughout the conference, the questions they asked really prompted me to figure out what my values really are, what kind of voice I have—and how I show it; and also what kind of vision I have for myself for the future. I absolutely loved my experience at Capstone.” Each year, the Saint James School faculty nominates two sophomores to submit entries to the Capstone Leadership Academy. The University of Alabama Capstone Council, an alumni group of former SGA presidents, Crimson Girls and Capstone Men, the Office of the President, and the Honors College, receive applications from hundreds of students across Alabama and select the top 120 students to attend the two-day leadership conference. “Attending the Capstone Leadership Academy was a wonderful experience,” said Ashner. “Not only were we taught to identify and embody the attributes of an effective leader, we were taught that an effective leader improves the lives of everyone around them—by guiding others, and assisting others, in achieving their goals--not our goals. I was truly inspired by the concepts we learned at Capstone.”
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Macon East Varsity Boys’ Basketball Team Ends Season as AISA 2A State Runner-up
The Macon East varsity boys’ basketball team ended its season as the 2A State Runnerup after a tough loss to Edgewood in the final game of play at the Montgomery Multiplex. The 2015-16 season was an exciting one for the Knights with both the varsity girls’ and boys’ teams advancing to the state playoffs. In Elite Eight play Coach Lott’s girls defeated Russell Christian 56-44 led by Madisyn Kennedy with 16 points and 11 rebounds and Jesi Garrett with 14 points, 17 rebounds, and 4 steals. Coach Chapman and the boys team easily handled Marengo winning 60-30 with 24 points from Channy Blackwell and 9 from Slate Garmany. Advancing to the Final Four the Lady Knights fell to South Choctaw 40-50 as Garrett put up 11 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 steals followed by Paxton Searle with 10 points. The Final Four match-up between the Knights and the boys of Restoration was an exciting one ending in a 68-57 win. The Blackwell brothers led the scoring with 27 for Channy and 16 for Mason followed by 12 points for Garmany. On February 8, the varsity boys headed into the championship game with rival Edgewood. Down by two at halftime, the Knights had a hard fought (39-59) loss to the Wildcats. Mason Blackwell led the final game of his career with 18 points assisted by Logan Goree and Channy Blackwell with 7 each. Macon East’s Lexi Brantley was named to the girls’ all-tournament team, and Mason and Channy Blackwell received all-tournament honors for the boys.
Pike Road Classes Plant Raised Garden Beds
Multiple communities at Pike Road School have been working to incorporate raised garden beds onto the campus. Communities 7 and 8 measured and figured out what/how much material was needed. Community 5 planted onions, squash and other veggies. All filled the beds with soil. Several science standards were covered.
Montgomery Catholic’s JV Softball Team Starts Season with a Bang
Academy Students Paint Self-Portraits
Kindergarten students painted self-portraits in the style of Matisse during their art class with BeeLee Tullos!
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents I April 2016
Montgomery Catholic’s junior varsity softball team started its season off right. The team dominated at the BrewTech Big Horn Classic Tournament, February 19-20. The Knights outscored their opponents 42-3 during the tournament, including defeating Charles Henderson 9-0; Elmore County 11-0; Greenville 10-0 and Saint James in the championship 12-3. JV softball team members are: Alanna Aiken, Bailey Batten, Josie Blanks, Ansley Dean, Alex Jolley, McKenzie Norton, Katherine O’Connor, Paige Rentfro, Julia Rodriguez, Rachel Rodriguez, Leah Taylor, Chloe Walden, and Nikki Walker. Coaches are Abby Beesley, Hollis Johnson and Michael Walden. 32
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Floyd Science Olympiad Team Competes in Mobile Tournament
The Floyd Middle Magnet Science Olympiad team competed in a regional tournament at Spring Hill College in Mobile recently. This is only the second year in which Floyd has had a Science Olympiad team. First-place winners at the tournament from the Floyd team were Amanda Warren in Meteorology, Joe Higgins and Kyle Adams in Crime Busters, and Emily Willford and Sherlenthia Brazzley in Disease Detectives. Second-place winner was Ethan Taylor in Green Generation. Third-place winners were Anna Claire Berrey and Jarel Thomas in Elastic Glider and Yori Adagunodo in Anatomy and Physiology. The team is sponsored by Ms. Fyffe with the assistance of Mrs. Bruce.
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Holy Cross Partners with Family Sunshine Center
Children’s socks, sippy cups, towels and washcloths are some of the items that students and faculty at Holy Cross Episcopal School recently collected for the Family Sunshine Center. When outreach coordinator Marcia Bazzell learned that the center needed these items for families in transition between homes, she encouraged everyone at Holy Cross to start collecting and bringing these items to school for the Easter Outreach Project. Some students asked their parents to purchase these, and some used their own money to provide for this very important cause. The donations were blessed during chapel on March 16, and then donated to the Family Sunshine Center where they will be used to help those in need. Outreach projects are an important part of school life at Holy Cross, as students learn about the needs of others and how to help.
Summer fun and learning for students entering 1st-12th grades.
SESSION 1: JUNE 6-24, 2016 SESSION 2: JULY 11-29, 2016
KIDS/YOUTH
Orientation | May 28 | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dunn-Oliver Acadome Banquet Room Each session is three weeks, Monday-Friday, with the option of full-day or half-day enrollment.
Full Day | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $425.00 Per Child, Per Session
Half Day | 8 a.m.-noon or 1-5 p.m. $300.00 Per Child, Per Session
SAVE 10% SAVE 15%
PAY ON OR BEFORE MAY 28, 2016 AND REGISTER FOR BOTH SESSIONS ON OR BEFORE MAY 28, 2016 AND
For more information, contact the Alabama State University Division of Continuing Education at 334-229-4686. 33
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MEA Sixth-Graders Finish G.R.E.A.T. Program
Mrs. Walters’ sixth-grade class recently completed the G.R.E.A.T. program with the Montgomery Sheriff’s Department. Gang Resistance Education And Training provides a school-based, police officer-instructed program that includes classroom instruction and various learning activities. The instruction of life skills is the foundation of the program. Macon East’s program is led by Corporal Koffee Anderson. He offers a wide range of experience recognizing and combatting criminal behavior and is a positive role model to the students.
Cornerstone Kindergartners Get Fired Up
Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s kindergarten class enjoyed a visit from the local fire department. In conjunction with their literature study on Curious George, the kindergartners participated in a fire safety class and then had opportunity to explore the fire truck. Local firefighters visited with the students and explained their role in serving our community. Teacher Amy Gonzalez said this was the perfect way for the students to learn about firemen and fire safety.
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MA Students Named National Merit Finalists
Lindsey Warwick, William Moore, and Gracie Trulove, seniors at The Montgomery Academy, have been named finalists in the 2016 National Merit Scholarship competition, a privately funded national academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. Moore is an active member of the Academy’s theater program, having performed in numerous productions and also assisted as stage manager. As a junior, he was inducted in Cum Laude Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. This year, he was named an AP Scholar with Honor. Moore is in his fourth year serving as an Academy ambassador. As a freshman and sophomore, he was a Speech & Debate State Champion and as a junior qualified for the National Speech & Debate tournament in the Congressional Debate. Moore is a contributing writer for The Flyer and treasurer of the Latin Club. He is also dedicated to community service, volunteering as a tutor to students at Dozier Elementary and helping with Joy for Johnny, a respite ministry for families of special needs children. Last summer, he attended Northwestern University’s InFOCUS Sustainability Seminar, a camp focusing on sustainability in modern day. A high honor roll athlete, Trulove is a member of the varsity basketball and track & field teams and captain of the varsity soccer team. As a junior, she was inducted as a member of Cum Laude Honor Society and was recently named an AP Scholar with Honor. She earned the Character Award in ninth grade and the Sewanee Book Award for outstanding personal character her junior year. Trulove serves as Senior Class President of the Student Government Association, is a member of the school chorus and involved in girls’ Bible study. During the summer, she is a counselor at Camp Skyline Ranch. Warwick is an accomplished pianist, guitarist and violinist. In addition to singing in the Academy’s nationally recognized chorus, she is a member of her church youth choir and plays 2nd violin in the Montgomery Youth Orchestra. Her sophomore and junior years, Warwick participated in the Trumbauer State Theater Festival receiving superior ratings. She is a member of Mu Alpha Theta, the Spanish Honor Society and was recently named an AP Scholar. Warwick is also a dedicated volunteer in the community, tutoring elementary school children, serving as a mentor to teenagers and volunteering. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,400 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $32 million that will be offered in the spring.
GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME
Evangel Christian Academy Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education. Our desire is to help each child achieve their God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11
Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA
NOW ENROLLING K4-12 2016-2017
3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882
For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office
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Holy Cross Fourth-Graders ‘Needed a Vacation’
Fourth-grade students at Holy Cross Episcopal School presented the musical “I Need a Vacation” for students, faculty, families and friends in two performances March 2-3. For thirty minutes, Nancy Stankard’s class, led by Beth Stewart, entertained the audience with singing, dancing and well-timed antics. With songs about family vacation trips, summer camp, and other fun outings, the performance received many laughs and nods. Equally impressive was the set-changing that took place after each song. Students worked in perfect timing with each other to reset the stage and retrieve props for the next number.
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Bethany Christian Academy Kindergartners Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s Birthday
On March 15, Reggenia Baskin’s kindergarten class at Bethany Christian Academy celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday with a Slumber Party Read-a-Thon. “Kutie Ks” came to school donned in pajamas and hugging their favorite Dr. Seuss book. The celebration “kicked off” with a green eggs and turkey ham breakfast and students were thrilled by Dr. Seuss stories read by parents and community guests as they snuggled in cozy sleeping bags. LeCretia Snow Jackson represented her company HP as a community guest reader.
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first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,
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• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T O WER • OUTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Macon East Takes Top Two First Places In AISA State Science Fair
Macon East Academy held its annual Science Fair in early February. Each student in grades 4-6 submitted a research paper, project board, and experiment in either the biological or physical science categories. First-place winners Jameson Byrom, Gavin Justice, Trey Matthews, Kacy Rutland, Parker Strickland and Lucy Taylor advanced to the Alabama Independent School Association District Fair at Chattahoochee Valley Community College. Four Macon East students received medals at district and advanced to the state competition. The AISA State Science Fair took place February 25 at Huntingdon College. Each participant stood with his project and gave an oral presentation to the judges. Macon East was proud to receive the first-place award in both the biological and physical science categories. Byrom’s entry, “The Eyes Taste It,” proved how the color of food affects a person’s perception of taste and was the overall first-place winner in the biological category. Taking first place in physical science, sixth-grader Matthews’s project, “Non-Newtonian Fluids,” proved how non-Newtonian fluids change viscosity when a force is applied.
Pike Road Reading Tournament Picks Winner
Jameson Bryan won first place in the biological category.
Trey Matthews won first place in the physical science category.
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Pike Road School’s Community One teachers, Mrs. Mitchell (instructional coach), and Mr. Matt (librarian at Pike Road library branch), each picked two texts to put into the “March Madness” reading tournament. Each family read and voted on two texts until students reached the Elite 8, the Final Four, and finally, the Championship. Before votes were announced, Mrs. McDevitt read her pick, The Easter Bunny’s Assistant, and Mr. Matt read his pick, Ol’ Mama Squirrel. The Easter Bunny’s Assistant won, with the runner up as Ol’ Mama Squirrel. The kids had a great time. Lead learners were able to connect multiple standards to this event.
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Montgomery County Schools
Saint James Students Serve at Youth Legislature
ACA Raises Money in Jump Rope for Heart
February is Jump Rope for Heart and Heart Health Month at Alabama Christian Academy. During the month, the elementary students learn how the heart functions in the body, how to maintain a healthy heart and play games that promote a healthy heart in their physical education classes. In correlation with this, the students engage in a service project raising money for the American Heart Association. The AHA has promoted Jump Rope for Heart or Hoops for Heart in the schools for more than 35 years to help teach students at a young age how to develop and maintain a healthy heart. The students at ACA have participated in Jump Rope for Heart for more than 20 years and the school has been the top money raiser for the state of Alabama for the past 16 years. This year K4 through 8th grade students participated in the JRFH event, raising more than $20,000 for the AHA. The students raising the most money were: Karson Oakley ($1,180), Kinleigh Pittman ($526), and Ashlyn Daly ($480). All students who raised $100 or more were invited to a “lock-in” on campus where they enjoyed inflatables, playtime in the gym and on the football field, and a movie on the big screen. A part of the JRFH event is a “Wall of Honor.” The students can decorate a heart for someone that has been affected by heart disease. This year we recognized one of our ninth-grade girls that had open heart surgery last spring; two of the top money raisers have mild heart concerns. Special thanks to PE teacher Patti Turner, who put numerous hours into making Jump Rope for Heart a success. Fifth-grader Allison Thornton is shown jumping to her heart’s content. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
From passing bills in legislative chambers, to serving as a presiding officer, to playing major roles in the way legislation is passed in each house, Saint James School participants excelled in every aspect of YMCA’s Youth Legislative program. Saint James sophomore Claudia Hubbard served as first year presiding officer and was elected to serve as Senate pro temp for 2017. Hubbard’s bill was passed and signed into law by the youth governor. Hubbard was also selected as a delegate for the Conference on National Affairs (CONA) in North Carolina in June and she was awarded the Servant Leadership Award. STJ junior Harrison Carter served as assistant secretary of state and was elected secretary of state for 2017. Junior T Diebel served on the Governor’s Cabinet as director of transportation and his bill was passed in the House. Saint James sophomore Katie McIntyre was elected to serve as first year presiding officer for 2017. Junior Anna Claire Bullard served as editor-in-chief of the conference newspaper Tomorrow TODAY and junior Sydney Stone was on the media staff as a photographer. Saint James high school students Allen Azar, Abigail Engles, Atchison Hubbard, Grace Kirkland, Katie McIntyre, Mackenzie Montiel, Stephen Sadie, Annie Skoneki and Abi Young served as representatives in the House; Young’s bill was passed in the House. Sara Arrington, Sterling Jones, Hannah White, Samantha White, and Abi Young were lobbyists in this year’s program. Serving on the college staff for the second year were Saint James alumni Caitlin Cobb and Hayley White, both sophomores at the University of Alabama. The YMCA’s State Youth Legislature is held in February each year and meets at the Alabama State Capitol, State House, and Judicial Building in Montgomery. Several hundred students from across the state participate yearly in the mock-legislative process. Kay McGaughey and Cindy Somerville serve as advisors for the Saint James participants. From left are sophomore Claudia Hubbard, junior Harrison Carter and sophomore Katie McIntyre.
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Macon East Kindergartners Partner with Reading Buddies
During the first semester of the school year, Macon East Academy sixth-grade students partnered with the kindergarten for the Reading Buddies program. The younger students met with their buddies each week to practice their reading skills and prepare them to participate in the accelerated reader program during second semester. Using the Mo Willems series of “Elephant and Piggie” books, the mentoring program was a huge success as the kindergartners grew their reading skills and their self-confidence. 38
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Catholic Key Club Volunteers At One Church Mission
On March 6, the Key Club from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School volunteered to help Reality and Truth Ministry at One Church Mission. Students packed sack breakfasts and hygiene kits which were given to the homeless while at dinner at the mission later that evening. Ladonna Brendle of One Church Mission expressed the need for sack breakfasts, since currently there is no service in Montgomery for the homeless to get something to eat for breakfast. Reality and Truth Ministry feeds approximately 120 people each day as well as helping many people find housing and employment. Brendle explained that the minisrty has outgrown its current location. A larger facility has been on Montgomery Street to continue the work that has been done for eight years; however, it is in need of some renovation before it can be opened to serve the needy. Specificlly, the most immediate need is installing plumbing. Brendle is seeking licensed plumbers interested in helping One Church Mission fit the building at 506 Montgomery Street with new plumbing for a kitchen and shower stalls. Those interested in assisting may call her at 354-6142. The goal is to continue helping the homeless with food and hygiene needs well into the future. Shown are Catholic students Logan Stevens, Megan Stembridge, Lisa Hong, Aubrey Lenn, Jonathan Green and Marissa Dogan.
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Montgomery Academy Science Olympiad Team Places Third
The Montgomery Academy Science Olympiad team placed third at the regional competition in Mobile recently. As a result, the team is qualified for the state competition this spring. Out of 23 events, MA placed in the top five in 17 of the events. Individual winners were: 1st Place Protein Modeling: Jeongwoo Kim, Scotland Kemper, Taimoor Arshad; 1st Place Write It Do It: Fred Tippett and Ford Cleveland; 1st place cell biology: Kemper and Arshad; 1st Place Game On: Brianna Bonner and Pio Jung; 2nd Place Invasive Species: Kemper and Anna Kate Lindsay; 2nd Place It’s About Time: Dora Eskridge and Lindsay; 2nd Place Dynamic Planet: Arshad and Robert Kelly; 3rd Place astronomy: Kim and Gracie Trulove; 3rd Place Electric Vehicle: Bonner and Maggie Smith; 3rd Place Geological Mapping: Arshad and Freddie Lieux; 4th Place Disease Detectives: Kemper and Cleveland; 4th Place Hydrogeology: Kim and Cleveland; 4th Place Wright Stuff: Lieux and Tippett. 39
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Catholic Math Team Competes At Faulkner MathCounts
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s middle school math team competed in the Montgomery area MathCounts competition February 19 held at Faulkner University in Montgomery. The team had a great day of competition and brought home third place overall. Eighthgrader Clare Wilson was named one of the top 10 mathletes in the area making it to the Countdown Round, the final round of competition with quick math problems. The team members and coaches that competed were: front row from left, sponsor Julie Flowers, Brian Povilus, Clare Wilson, Sadie Bartells and Mrs. Vicki Petters; middle row, James Saliba, Scott Nation, Jason Flowers and Daniel Gacha; and back row, John Tittel, Charlie O’Donnell and Ryan Avery.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
ACA Students Chosen for Math Olympiad
Several fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders were selected to be on the Math Olympiad team at Alabama Christian Academy based on exceptional performance in math in the classroom. Students in Math Olympiad competed nationally in five monthly contests against other students their age.
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STJ Speech & Debate Team Headed to Nationals The Saint James School Speech and Debate Team competed at the Deep South District Tournament in Montgomery, March 11-12. This is a qualifying tournament for the National Speech & Debate Tournament held in June each year. Although students may qualify in more than one event for Nationals—they take only one event to the National tournament. Saint James won the Individual Events Sweepstakes at the District Tournament. The students who competed and placed in the various individual events included: International Extemporaneous Speaking: Bradley Wascher received 1st place and qualified for the National Tournament; and Mason Edwards received 3rd place. In United States Extemporaneous Speaking: Henry Olree received 1st place and qualified for the National Tournament; Salina Bulls received 2nd place and qualified for the National Tournament; Jacob Cannon received 4th place; and Nathan Ashner received 6th place. In Dramatic Interpretation: Erika Aho received 2nd place and qualified for the National Tournament. In Humorous Interpretation: Aho received 2nd place and qualified for the National Tournament. In Original Oratory: Cassidy Duncan received 4th place and Ashner received 5th place.
In Informative Speaking: Olree received 1st place and qualified for the National Tournament. In Duo Interpretation: Duncan and Olivia White received 2nd place and qualified for the National Tournament. In Congressional Debate: Cannon placed 2nd in the Senate and qualified for the National Tournament; Bulls received 3rd place in the Senate Chamber; Wascher received 3rd place in the House Chamber; and Edwards received 5th place in the House Chamber. Under the direction of Dr. Ian Turnipseed, the Saint James Speech & Debate team will continue to perfect its work as the teammates prepare for the State Tournament
this spring and then shift their focus to the National Tournament scheduled for mid-June in Salt Lake City, Utah. Dr. Turnipseed, far right, is shown with Mrs. Lorna Aho, far left, and the STJ District Tournament competitors. Front row from left are Erika Aho, Salina Bulls, Leland Talbert, Olivia White, Hannah Yost, Lauren Sullivan, Nathan Ashner and Matthew Nelson. Back row from left are Bradley Wascher, Mason Edwards, Phillip Goodwyn, Daniel Kim, Cassidy Duncan, Henry Olree, Gibeom Kim, JB Ramsey and Jacob Cannon.
A K4-12 College Preparatory School
ENROLLING NOW Holy Spirit Elementary Campus, K4-6 grade
Montgomery Catholic strives to help each student reach their God-given potential—in the faith, academics, athletics, and arts.
8580 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36117 334-649-4404
St. Bede Elementary Campus, K4-6 grade 3850 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, AL 36109 334-272-3033
Middle School Campus, 7-8 grade 5350 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36116 334-272-2465
For more information contact vdickson@montgomerycatholic.org or call 334-272-7221 ext. 32.
High School Campus, 9-12 grade 5350 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36116 334-272-7220 41
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Where has the year gone? Spring is ushering in many exciting opportunities and events. Afternoons are packed with baseball, softball, golf, and soccer. Spring band concerts and field trips fill the students with excitement. The Autauga County school system continues to produce a new crop of fresh honors for students and faculty alike! Central Alabama Electric Cooperative recently held their annual Bright Ideas Grant Awards Banquet. Congratulations to the following educators for going the extra mile to apply for a grant and winning: Kylee Adams (Prattville Intermediate School) for Let’s Take the World by Storm, Brittany Brown (Prattville Primary School) for ART: A Reason to Teach, Spring Bruner (Marbury Middle School) for Outdoor Learning Lab, Teresa Calhoun (Prattville Intermediate School) for Mindstorm Machines and Mechanisms Educating with
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
Robotics, Emily Gregory (Pine Level Elementary School) for Lego We Do Mania, Hannah Meherg (Prattville Junior High School) for Hook ’em with a NOOK, Kristen Mims (Daniel Pratt Elementary School) for Live Butterfly Garden, and Michelle Richey (Daniel Pratt Elementary School) for CASLLS Program. A heart-felt thank you goes out to all these fine teachers for their hard work and commitment to the students of Autauga County. Amazing teachers help produce outstanding students! Congratulations to Campbell Vest, a fourth grade student at Prattville Elementary School. Principal Felissa Clemons fondly refers to her as Judge Campbell because she has aspirations of becoming a judge. She has been named the Autauga County Spelling Bee Winner for 2016 and progressed to the Alabama State Spelling Bee where she placed 10th. Congratulations, “Judge Campbell!” The very definition of outstanding is a national championship, and Prattville High School cheerleaders accomplished just that! They won the 2016 CheerSport National Championships held in Atlanta, Georgia. Congratulations to Coach Stephanie Williams and
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cheerleaders Kelsey Bentley, Tyler Bowman, MacKenzie Brown, Scarlett Carter, MacKenzie Cherry, Carmella Clark, Shelby Epperson, Kori Frye, Kaitlin Graves, Sarah Hall, Brooklyn Hollon, Hahyun Jin, Emeline Jones, Makayla Logan, Kelsey Luker, Bailey Meadows, Kylar Pettway, Sabrina Shelton, Daija Stoudemire, Kirsten Williams, and Courtney Wynn! That’s not all the good news coming from Prattville High School. Senior Terence Perkins finished third in the Class 7A AHSAA state wrestling tournament. Senior Robbey Kilough finished first and was also named the Class 7A Most Outstanding Wrestler. This is the state’s highest wrestling honor. Congratulations to Robbey Kilough and Terence Perkins! The 2015-2016 school calendar was approved in January to allow everyone to start planning for next year. You can find it on our website at acboe.net and on our “Autauga County School System” Facebook page. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.
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Prattville Christian Names Stephenson Academic Director
Kim Stephenson has been selected to serve as Prattville Christian Academy’s academic director, effective June 1. Her responsibilities will include providing leadership for all of PCA’s professional learning communities, conducting financial planning and performance evaluations as they relate to standardized testing and student achievement, as well as oversight of all academic initiatives and curriculum. Stephenson has the educational expertise and the practical knowledge having been in the classroom since 2005. “Kim has been an important part of our academic program for the past few years and will continue to move PCA forward in academic excellence as we prepare students of all ages for life,” said PCA President Ron Mitchell. Stephenson began her teaching career in 2000 as an after-school tutor at Huntingdon Learning Center before moving to PCA in 2005 to teach music and eventually settling into her current role as a third-grade teacher. She graduated from Auburn Montgomery with a Bachelor of Science in biology, a Master’s Degree in elementary education and an Education Specialist in elementary education. She is currently pursuing a gifted certification to accompany her Ed.S., from the University of Alabama. She is married to Adam Stephenson and they have four children: Emily, 17; Rachel 16; Nicholas, 13; and Drew, 11. “I am looking forward to my new role serving PCA students, teachers and parents. I feel blessed that we have such a great staff to collaborate with and a loving family environment to work in,” said Stephenson. “I have enjoyed many years of teaching and mentoring students in the classroom, and plan to continue that from a broader perspective while serving in this position as a support for our educators in curriculum guidance.” Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Prattville Junior High Sponsors Annual Career Fair
Prattville Junior High School sponsors an annual Career Fair for all seventh- and eighth-grade students. During their scheduled physical education classes, students visit different booths to see first hand activities from a variety of occupations including law enforcement, health care, cosmetology, electrical engineering, child care, woodworking, and various other possibilities. This exposure allows students to begin thinking about career choices and academic choices to promote their future. This year, LifeSouth employees came to PJHS in the helicopter and allowed students to see their equipment up close. As they left, the employees took an aerial picture of students outside the school sending them off.
Leadership Autauga Class Starts Outdoor Classroom
The Leadership Autauga County class completed the first part of its class project recently--an outdoor classroom and play area behind the library. Thanks to all who came out to work. A few Daniel Pratt Elementary School students are shown joining in on the fun.
EMCA Celebrates Dr. Seuss’ Birthday
Mrs. Simpkins’ Kindergarten class at East Memorial Academy dressed as a Dr. Seuss character as part of his brithday celebration.
PCA’s EJ Spencer Signs Football Scholarship
Prattville Christian Academy senior EJ Spencer has been offered an athletic scholarship to play football at Birmingham-Southern College. Spencer has been a successful quarterback for the Panthers during the last three years. During the 2015 season, he had more than 1,400 total all-purpose yards with 56% completion and 10 touchdowns. “EJ is an exemplary student and athlete. The PCA coaching staff and I are proud to have had the pleasure to coach him,” said Preston Judah, PCA offensive coordinator. “We know he will do great things and continue to glorify God with his accomplishments on the field, but his leadership and play will be missed.” 44
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Prattville Christian Academy’s Ron Mitchell Named Administrator of the Year at National Conference
Prattville Christian Academy President Ron Mitchell was named as the Administrator of the Year at the National Christian School Association’s annual conference in Richmond, Virginia. The National Christian School Association (NCSA) is a nondenominational educational association and accrediting agency that represents nearly 100 Christian schools nationwide. This prestigious honor is given by a majority vote of all NCSA heads of schools throughout the nation. To qualify, a nominee must possess spiritual leadership, business acumen and serve a minimum of ten consecutive years at one school. Mitchell has successfully led Prattville Christian Academy since 2004, during which time the school enrollment has more than doubled in size. PCA places an emphasis on life readiness through spiritual, academic and athletic programs. “I am honored to receive this award; however, I believe it should have been presented to our dedicated and servant-minded board, staff, parents and students,” said Mitchell. “The ultimate praise must go to our God who continues to bless us tremendously as we seek to glorify Him in all that we do at PCA.” Mitchell is shown receiving his award at the National Christian School Association conference.
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PJHS Students Sponsor Dr. Seuss Activities
Prattville Junior High School joined in the festivities of Read Across America. Students in Mrs. Weldon’s library class, affectionately known as the Media Minions, sponsored activities for some of the developmentally challenged students. They created art projects and special snacks for the students and read Dr. Seuss books to them. Thanks to Mrs. Weldon and Mr. Sanders for coordinating these efforts.
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Sunday Morning Worship Services | 8:45 & 11 am Chapel Service & Holy Communion Wednesdays | 5:30 pm
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PCA Benefit Features Christian Band Rush of Fools
Prattville Christian Academy is partnering with the popular Christian band Rush of Fools to hold a benefit concert for the school on Friday, April 22. The concert, along with a dinner and auction, will be held at Vaughn Forest Church in Montgomery. The dinner and auction will begin at 6 p.m. and the concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Rush of Fools is a Christian rock/contemporary Christian music band known for the hit singles “Undo” and “When Our Hearts Sing.” The band has released four albums since 2007 and has been nominated for four Dove awards, including New Artist of the Year, Song of the Year and Album of the Year. “We are thrilled to host Rush of Fools in conjunction with our annual benefit event. We could not think of a better opportunity for family fun than to enjoy the talent and message of this band,” said PCA Development Director Haley Scott. Concert tickets are available for only $20. To purchase, visit 4pca.org.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Each year, the Alabama Peace Officers’ Association sponsors an annual essay contest entitled, “Why I Will Say No to Alcohol and Drugs.” Prattville Junior High School has always been represented among the winners of this esteemed contest, and this year, the school had three eighth-grade winners! They were: Abby Agee, 1st place; Reagan Vinson, 2nd place; and Sam Guerrero, 4th place. Special thanks to English teacher Scarlett Rowe.
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In June, 2008, the Elmore County Public School System was awarded its initial District Accreditation by AdvancED Accreditation Commission. This was the realization of hours of work and commitment by our students, parents, teachers, and community and was cause for a celebration after months of self-evaluation, reflection, and review. District accreditation is awarded on a five-year cycle and the process takes approximately one year in order to complete all of the required components. Our most recent accreditation cycle culminated in 2013. Beginning this year, this process will begin again and will provide an opportunity to reflect on our past successes and evaluate our community’s vision for the future in order to engage in the continuous improvement of our schools. I will work closely with Mrs.
Susanne Goodin to guide this process that will lead the entire District through this time of growth and reflection which will begin in April, 2016. Five standards are used in the evaluation process. Standard 1, Purpose and Direction, addresses the need for a shared and articulated mission and vision that will guide every action and goal that the Elmore County community will take in the education of its students. Standard 2, Governance and Leadership, guides our district and school leaders to function in a manner that will promote student performance and the effectiveness of the system to enact the best possible learning environment. Standard 3, Teaching and Assessing for Learning, focuses on making certain that the system’s curriculum, instructional design, and assessment practices guide and ensure teacher effectiveness and student learning across all grades and courses. Standard 4, Resource and Support Systems, ensures that the system has resources and provides services in all schools that support its purpose and direction to ensure success for all students. Standard 5,
Using Results for Continuous Improvement, addresses the need for a comprehensive assessment system that generates a range of data about student learning and system effectiveness and using the results to guide continuous improvement. These standards are broad in nature and require that every aspect of our school system be evaluated thoroughly using a very rigorous process. This process of self-evaluation and examination will begin in the next several weeks. One of my goals, as your superintendent, is to ensure that we are continually placing the needs of our children and our community in the forefront of instructional decisions. If you would like to participate in this process, please contact the Elmore County Board of Education office at (334) 567-1200. Your concern, care, and vision are important to this method of review and we need your voice and observations to continue to propel our schools into the future.
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Andre` L. Harrison has served as a teacher, acting principal, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services and Human Resources, Assistant Superintendent of Education, and the Deputy Superintendent of Education/Chief of Staff. He is married to Monica, and they have a daughter, Aundrea, who attends the UAB. They reside in Millbrook, Alabama.
We are now open and accepting new Medicaid patients! (334) 801-9800
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Dr. Shobha Hosur and her staff are dedicated to helping children get “on the right track” to great dental health! 553 N Eastern Blvd • Montgomer y, Alabama www.ToothBudsAtLagoonPark.com Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Elmore County Schools
Holtville Elementary Hosts Balloon Release For Child Abuse Prevention Month
Southside Middle Celebrates Pi Day
Southside Middle School seventh- and eighth-grade students celebrated the annual Pi Day with all types of pie. The event, coordinated by mathematics department teachers Meredith Fink and Whitney Patterson, has become an SMS tradition. Fink reported that one seventh-grade student recited 69 placements of Pi, which would be 3.141592653589793238462643 38327950288419716939937510582 ..... or something close to that. Principal Bruce Dean took a direct pie in the face from Sinclair Cole to celebrate “Pi” Day on 3-14. The eighth-graders also took shots at Dr. Brock Nolin, assistant principal.
Holtville Elementary School will host a Balloon Release Friday, April 15, at 1:30 pm. (alternate date in case of inclement weather is set for April 19). This is a community awareness activity for Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Awareness Month. The Elmore County Extension, Family Resource Center, Juvenile Judge, DHR Director, Superintendent of Education and many other community partners will be in attendance as well as about 100 elementary students. This is a celebration of all the good work that the schools, churches, agencies and communities do to strengthen families which prevents child maltreatment.
ECHS Senior Awarded National Scholarship
Elmore County High School senior Wes Abrams was recently awarded $22,000 to apply toward the educational cost of the college or university of his choice, through the Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program. With more than 67,000 applicants nationwide, Abrams was only one of three Alabamians to receive this award. This scholarship recognizes outstanding students, who, in the face of great adversity, have exhibited an admirable commitment to continuing their education and serving their communities. In addition to the scholarship, Abrams will receive an all expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. to attend the Horatio Alger National Scholars Conference and participate in collegepreparedness and other educational sessions.
Eclectic Students Sing Alabama History Songs
Homeschool Co-op Celebrates 10 Years
Redland Elementary sixth-grader Seth Aude has qualified to compete in the state level competition of the National Geographic Bee. The Alabama State Bee will be held on April 1. Eligible state bee competitors must be in grades four through eight, and must have participated in and won the competition at the school level that involved at least six students. One champion from each state and territory will advance to the national competition, which will be held May 22-25 at the National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, D.C. Transportation and accommodations for the Washington, D.C. trip are provided for each state champion. Aude was recognized by Superintendent Dr. Andre Harrison at a recent Elmore County Board of Education meeting. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Fourth-graders from Eclectic Elementary sang songs relating to Alabama history at the Elmore County Board of Education meeting March 14. They were led by music teacher Will Reese.
Redland Student Competes in State Geography Bee
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To commemorate its 10th year of offering classes to the homeschool community, Academy Days Co-op honored another group completing 10 years of classes: sophomores. Showing off the congratulations cookie are Matt Bush of Prattville, Anthony Offutt of Millbrook, Nate Greenawalt of Prattville, Jason Jackson of Millbrook and Windsor Joye of Deatsville. Following the recognition of 10th-graders, students and parents enjoyed an assorted cookie buffet to kick off the spring semester. Started in 2006 and held weekly during the school year at Coosada Baptist Church, Academy Days Co-op offers preschool through high school classes in subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group settings. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information about the co-op or homeschooling. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Victory Baptist Goes To Competition
Victory Baptist School attended ACEA State Academic, Bible, Jr/Sr High Art Competition, Elementary, and Jr/Sr High Spelling Bee on January 28-29 at Tabernacle Christian School in Gardendale, Ala. Individual students brought home nine first-place ribbons, seven secondplace ribbons and four third-place ribbons. First-place ribbon winners were Wyatt Bowman in math, Megan Fondren in Sr. High biology, Jody Hanson in Jr. High Topical Preaching, Sam Groff in Jr. High Evangelical Preaching, Tyler Rigby in Jr. High Expository Preaching, Carter Byrd in Sr. High Evangelical Preaching, Cole Monger in Jr. High Digital Media, and Noah Yarroch in Jr. High Woodworking. Kennedy Davidson took first in Elementary Spelling. The elementary spelling competition was a nail-biter. For the first time in the history of the competition, the judges exhausted their list of words and went to the dictionary for more words. Second-place ribbon winners were Mike Haynes in Sr. High Music Theory, Carlyn Rawls in Jr. High Spelling, Jacob Fausnight with his Jr. High Biological Science Project, Riley Palermo with her Jr. High Physical Science Project, Jay Brown in Jr. High Evangelical Preaching, Cole Monger in Sr. High Expository Preaching, and Micah Smith in Sr. High Evangelical Preaching. Third-place ribbon winners were Kennedy Davidson in English, Luke Bowman in history, V 窶連nthony Phillips in Jr. High Topical Preaching, and James Johnson in Sr. High Topical Preaching. Sparkle Fausnight received an excellent rating for her photograph. In addition to the individual awards, VBS won the Bible Cup for the second year in a row. Elementary winners are shown above; junior and senior high winners are shown below.
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Southside Middle Visits Montgomery Symphony Orchestra
The fifth-graders at Southside Middle School had front-bleacher seats at the Alabama State University Dunn-Oliver Acadome recently, as they were guests of the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra. For more than two decades, the MSO has offered a “Children’s Concert” as part of its performance series. Southside has attended many times over the years. Maestro Thomas Hinds led the Symphony through “Procession of Nobles” by Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov, “La Peri” by Paul Dukas, and other music of the classical and romantic periods before launching into a rousing version of John Philip Sousa’s “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” He chose several students from the audience to conduct the orchestra -- including Danielle Bird from Southside Middle School. [Photo by Dr. Brock Nolin]
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Wetumpka Seniors Excel in Science
Wetumpka High School senior Hannah James, left, won a $1,000 scholarship from the Legacy Environmental Organization and $250 from multiple special awards at the Elmore County Science Fair, as well as 3rd Best in Fair and 1st Place in her category. Sydney Cox was awarded 2nd Place in her category at the Regional Science Fair. Both of these students will compete in the State Science Fair in April.
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Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.
Eclectic Elementary Awards February Students of the Month
Kindergarten: DaShawn Gibbs, Dillon Dunson, Ja’Edlen Benson, Savannah Harris, Sarjah Matthews and Joseph Knight 1st grade: Wyatt Bolt, Gabe Payne, Tyce Maynard, Dustin Woods, Landen Avant and Gavin Eason 2nd Grade: Charlissia Gibbs, Breasia Marshall, Alexyes Matthews, Madalyn Calloway, Addison Darden and Kelsey Anthony 3rd Grade: Arial Mann, Shelton Darnell, Tyler Woodfin, Kate Johnson, Emma Fletcher and Madeline Brunson 4th Grade: Katie Ruth Winter, Kiley Graham, Mary Louise Griffin, Jacob Kilpatrick and Meg Houts
Victory Baptist Seniors Visit Hyundai
The senior class at Victory Baptist School recently took a field trip to the Hyundai Plant in Montgomery. The trip helped to reinforce the economic concepts being discussed in the classroom. Students were able to see first-hand how production and efficiency work.
Redland Takes Field Trip
Third-graders from Redland Elementary took a field trip to the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts & the W.A. Gayle Planetarium recently. Students are shown here at the art museum.
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Wetumpka Elementary Receives Brighter Minds Grant
Brighter Minds is Alabama Power’s and the Alabama Power Foundation’s education initiative to help prepare students with the skills and knowledge they need to join the workforce and to lead our state. Brighter Minds has three main focus areas through which it works to improve education in Alabama, and one of these is the Students to Stewards grant where six schools across the state are awarded a grant to build outdoor classrooms. Wetumpka Elementary was chosen as one of the recipients this year. Fourth-grade teachers Stacey Williams and Karen Shepherd wrote a grant for an outdoor classroom! The outdoor classroom will be a great addition to the school as well as giving WES students a chance to learn outdoors. Wetumpka Elementary was presented with this grant by Kim Adams on Feb. 19. “We are thrilled that we were chosen one out of six schools in Alabama to receive the Brighter Minds Grant!” Principal Sullivan said. “WES has such a talented faculty and staff, and I know we are going to do many more great things like this in the future.” From left are Dr. Calandra Crenshaw, Gigi Hankins, Principal Bonnie Sullivan, Stacey Williams, Karen Shepherd, Kim Adams, Dr. Andre Harrison, and Sean Kreauter.
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Airport Road Student Council Explores Millbrook
The Airport Road Intermediate School student council had the opportunity to explore some of the wonderful activities offered in the Millbrook community. First stop was the AWF NaturePlex, where the students had the opportunity to participate in fun team-building activities and explore wildlife. The students also visited the Welcome Center. The students are very involved in helping provide items for the Welcome Center and were excited to see where their donations actually go.
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Elmore County Schools
Wetumpka Second-Graders Learn Fire Safety
Wetumpka Elementary second-grade teacher Taryn Brodie had a firefighter visit her class to discuss fire safety and to show students the materials firefighters use every day.
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Victory Baptist FourthGraders Spend Day Of Local History
Mrs. Bringham’s fourth-grade class at Victory Baptist School spent the day learning about Alabama history as the students toured historic sites in downtown Montgomery. They began the day with a guided tour of the Alabama Department of Archives and History Museum, where they learned more about Alabama’s history and the story of its people. They proceeded to the First White House of the Confederacy, where they learned about President Davis and his family, toured the house, and saw personal items of the Davis family as well as authentic furnishings of the period. Afterwards, they explored the exterior and interior of the Alabama State Capitol. They used the information they learned and the pictures they took to complete their Alabama State Notebooks.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.
Airport Road Celebrates Read Across America
Airport Road Intermediate School had a fantastic week celebrating Dr. Seuss! The love of reading was celebrated each day with Dr. Seuss quotes each morning, as well as awesome dress-up days. Students wore pajamas, silly socks, mustaches, Dr. Seuss T-shirts, and to culminate a great week, dressed up as their favorite Dr. Seuss character. At a reading celebration on Thursday night, students performed to a packed audience. A book fair also allowed students to purchase new books to further explore their love of reading.
Wetumpka Senior Wins Rotary Club Contest
Wetumpka High School senior Zena Banker recently won the Wetumpka Rotary Club Speech Scholarship Contest. From left are Steve McKenzie, Jill Corbin, Leisa Finley, Banker, Superintendent Dr. Andre Harrison and Zena’s father, Lee Banker. Emily Ellis was the runner-up. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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WES Living Wax Museum is a Hit!
The students in Mrs. Ingram’s and Mrs. Jones’ second-grade classes at Wetumpka Elementary participated in a Living Wax Museum. Students chose a famous historical American, conducted research, wrote a report, and dressed like their historical American. They also recited their report for an audience on February 12. Other classes and parents were able to come to the “museum.”
BMX Stunt Show Motivates WES
The Freestyle Connection BMX stunt show visited Wetumpka Elementary March 15. The show not only showcased bike stunts, but also had encouraging messages to the students concerning bicycle safety, anti-bullying and accomplishing goals. WES teachers are shown participating in a bike stunt.
Airport Road Holds Open Mic Night
On March 4, Airport Road Intermediate School held a very special celebration for the love of reading. Open Mic night was a huge success. ARIS students performed skits related to all things reading. The house was packed to watch students sing, dance, act and teach about the skills of reading! Special thanks to Rick Hendrix from 95.1 The Fox Radio who served as emcee for the event. 55
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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston
All Due Respect From Your Teen The late Rodney Dangerfield’s “I get no respect” jokes were pretty funny. But it isn’t a laughing matter when a teenager becomes disrespectful to a parent. While disrespect from a teenager can be demeaning and confusing to parents, it actually brings more harm to the child by tearing at the very fabric of their future. It may be rooted in an authority figure showing disrespect to the child. Or, the child could be imitating the disrespect they see exhibited by their peers or other family members – including their parents. I’d never say that you can force your child to respect you. But treating someone respectfully is altogether different. It is a controllable choice regardless of one’s opinion of that person. In other words, I may not agree with someone who holds a high office, or has an idea that I don’t like, but I can still treat them respectfully. Yes, it is easier and better for your teen to treat you respectfully if they actually feel respect for you. But, in fact, showing respect should have nothing to do with how they feel about you at the moment. A teenager’s disrespectful behavior can range from facial glares to obscene gestures; from mouthing off to fits of uncontrolled rage; from taking things without asking to outright stealing or destroying property. Often, disrespect flows from a demanding attitude for the parents’ time, money, privacy, feelings or property, and it usually starts out in insignificant ways. But even small expressions of disrespect are never acceptable. If a parent doesn’t intervene when the issues are small, disrespect can become part of your child’s permanent mindset, with behavior that gets worse over time. Years ago, our son was a month away from high school graduation when my wife and I went away for the weekend. When we returned from our travel, I knew the moment I entered our home that something wasn’t quite the same as when we’d left. When I questioned him, he insisted that nothing happened while we were away, and Montgomery Parents I April 2016
that he had followed the house rules, just as we requested. According to him, the weekend was just like any other. But, I sensed something otherwise! I could tell a crowd had been in our home, against the instructions to our son for what was to happen or not happen while we were gone. I felt like “Papa Bear” coming home to find that someone had roamed through the house — eating our porridge, sleeping in our beds, and wreaking havoc on our furniture. I felt it, because it happened. As a matter of fact, I learned that about forty kids were in our home that weekend. They played in the whirlpool, ate our food, emptied the cupboards, and tracked mud throughout the house. They broke my stereo system, played with our computers and searched through our drawers and closets. My privacy was violated, and our desires for what should and should not happen in our home were trashed. I wasn’t too happy with my son. Because I work with teens, and feel I understand them fairly well, the major issue for me wasn’t that a group of kids got together to have some outrageous fun at my house. That kind of thing happens all the time. The big deal for me was disrespect; my belongings were missing, and my son allowed unfamiliar friends to ignore what he and I had supposedly agreed upon. People I didn’t know invaded my space, intruded on my privacy, and even stole from me. The whole escapade was disrespectful, and a violation of my boundaries. I realized that if I didn’t want the same thing to happen again, then my wife and I needed to reinforce and strengthen the boundaries for our son.
What Do Boundaries Have to Do With Respect?
Boundaries are like fences. They define your space, and tell others where they can and cannot go in a relationship. A good analogy comes from keeping horses…if a horse breaks through the fence, it is the responsibility of the fence-maker to build it stronger. A good fence helps both the horse and his 56
owner to live in safety and harmony. Likewise, when personal boundaries are violated, it’s time to reinforce some relational fences. Here are some of the boundaries in our home that were violated by our son that weekend: 1) We will treat one another’s feelings, property and privacy with respect. 2) We will not lie, cheat or spread falsehoods. 3) We will not allow underage drinking, smoking or explicit activities in our home. 4) We will not allow others in our home without a parent’s knowledge and approval. After the “weekend” incident, my son spent a few days cleaning up the mess in our home and in our yard. Moreover, he learned he could not make a mess of our relationship by allowing disrespect to become part of his thinking and behavior. He learned again about our boundaries and paid the consequences for breaking down those fences. In the end, our relationship grew stronger because we worked on it together. Why is respect so important? It’s because respect is the cornerstone for discipline and relationships in the home. All else fails or gets short-circuited in teaching a child about maturity and responsibility when they don’t understand the concept of respect. When parents require respectful behavior, it helps the teen to be more respectful of others, and that’s a cornerstone for success in his life. Respect must be a pivotal boundary in your home, so make it clear to your children that you are serious about it by backing up your words with stiff consequences for any form of disrespect. Then, be sure to follow through on those consequences, since they will undoubtedly be tested. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.
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Schedule your free placement test now at these locations Kumon Math & Reading Center of Montgomery - Central 1655 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36106
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Relocations, new babies, and other life transitions can throw a wrench in your social network, leaving you feeling disconnected and lonely. Use the adjustment period as a chance to make a fresh start. Carefully consider your priorities and build connections that support your personal health and the well-being of your family.
home, and isolation could play a factor. Overall women are twice as likely to suffer from depression compared to men.
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“When there is a lack of social interaction and a decrease of peer to peer contact, there is great potential for depression which is a combination of sadness and anger,� says Lisa Bahar, a marriage and family therapist and professional counselor.
Women who feel a balanced sense of connection are healthier and more resilient to stress, anxiety and depression. According to a recent Gallup poll, stay-at-home moms are more vulnerable to depression compared to women who work outside of the Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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One day at a time, rev up your social engine for increased happiness and satisfaction. 58
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aJoin a mother’s group. Your sense of self-worth and sense of belonging increases when part of a group of supportive friends. aCall an old friend. Reconnecting helps you rebuild your confidence as meet new moms. aEmail a mom you’d like to know better. Arrange a time to meet with you and your kids for a playdate at the park or the mall play area. aSend a Facebook friend request to a mom you’ve met recently. Initiating friendships shows you welcome new friends and boosts your self-confidence. aVolunteer. Your efforts will positively impact others, and you’ll derive satisfaction and joy from helping out. aShake out the welcome mat. Greet your new neighbors with a plate of warm cookies. They’ll appreciate your thoughtfulness and a friendly face in a new neighborhood. aStrike up a conversation. Kids are great icebreakers. Even a casual conversation with another mom can cheer you. aBrighten a friend’s day. Send a card to let her know you’re thinking about her or call just to chat. aClick into an online moms group. Find comfort knowing your situation is not unique. Reaching out to other moms online who can relate can help you feel less isolated. aText a friend with a new baby. The first few weeks can be a rough adjustment. By reaching out, you’ll help her feel less alone. If possible, arrange a time to stop by with a meal. aCoordinate a meet and greet. Got school-aged kids? Invite other classroom moms to a “seasoned moms” lunch to build a sense of community. aSign up for a yoga, zumba or jazzercise class. Exercise releases mood-boosting endorphins and wards of stress. Group fitness helps you feel a sense of accountability. aSpring for a Girls Night Out! You may feel a little tired the next day, but recalling all the laughs and stimulating conversation will put a skip in your step. aSurround yourself with positive people. Move away from draining one-sided friendships that zap your energy. aSeek balance in your yeses. Stress less by saying no to requests that aren’t a priority or don’t interest you. Your family will thank you. aGo on a mini-adventure. Explore another part of town, discover a local museum, or take a class that interests you. Stepping out of your normal routine juices your creativity. 59
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aMake time to play. Carve out 15 or 20 minutes to pursue an activity you love. Playing is candy for the soul. aStart a walking group. Walking and talking for an hour is great exercise and like free therapy! aDine and play. Invite other moms, whose husbands travel or work late, for a two-hour afternoon play date and potluck dinner. Dinner done, kids sleep well, and you’re rewarded with a quiet evening ahead! aCoordinate a group outing at the zoo or a children’s museum. Both you and your kids will appreciate the social interaction, exercise and education these venues offer. aCheck out the library. Libraries often feature interesting presenters, book clubs and other activities. Attend a few discussions to meet others with shared interests. aOrganize a game night or book club with your friends. You and your friends will love the excuse for a lively evening escape! aReach out to a receptive member of a group of moms. If she is an active volunteer at your child’s school in activities that interest you, ask how you can get involved. aRejuvenate at the spa. Soothing for the mind and body, a study at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found Swedish massage in particular reduces the stress hormone cortisol, boosting immunity by increasing white blood cells which fight infection and disease. aReconnect with your spouse. Find a sitter, get dressed up and head out for a date night. Feeling sociable? Invite another couple to join you. aThrow a neighborhood backyard BBQ. Provide outdoor games like badminton, horseshoes, volleyball, chalk, bubbles and hula hoops for the kids to play together. aSupport a friend who sells make-up, jewelry, cookware or candles by accepting an invitation to one of the parties. Go with a budget and enjoy hanging out with other women. aTake a break. Schedule time alone to head to a pottery place and paint; go clothes shopping; or watch a movie. aRegroup with your kids. Set aside a relaxing afternoon to reconnect with your kids. Head to the park for a picnic lunch, play a board game, try ice skating or go bowling.
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 TRADITIONAL WORSHIP 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL 9: 45 AM THE WELL 11: 00 AM
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aTouch base with your family around the dinner table. Communication builds stronger families. Talk about your day’s highs and lows, discuss frustrations and celebrate successes. mp Freelance journalist and mom of two boys, Christa Melnyk Hines, is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life. Find her in the “Confidently Connected Moms” discussion group on Facebook.
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Everyday Science Is Child’s Play
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
Our kids live in a world filled with opportunities for science learning. Finding meaningful ways to explore everyday science can sometimes be a daunting task. Giving kids the tools to explore simple physics, chemistry and structures around them can both expose them to scientific principles in digestible bits as well as generate specific conversations where kids (and adults) can learn much more about what’s really happening right in their own environment. The following toys and tools explore more closely scientific principles that are constantly working in the world around us, everyday.
by Gerry Paige Smith
Primary Science Mix & Measure
Magnetic Match Rings (Popular Playthings)
Early handling of magnets reveals their power to attract and repulse, but there is so much more to be discovered about the positive and negative effects of magnetism. The Magnetic Match Rings set offers a structure to explore not only the polarity of magnets and how they react against each other, but also offers the challenge of creating and matching patterns that use and illustrate how magnetism works. Including 10 color-coded magnetic rings (each with a positive and negative side), a magnetic pole stand and 40 challenge cards, this set’s directed activities are a visible demonstration of the largely hidden power of magnets. An attractive choice for both visual and hands-on learners, this set is easily stored and portable for on the go.
(Learning Resources)
While children are early arrivals to the attraction of scooping and pouring, this kind of play is also an ideal opportunity to fine tune the activity into a primary introduction to volume measurement and very basic math.This set includes four measuring cups, three measuring spoons, a lidded bowl and a simple scale. Designed with small hands and short attention spans in mind, activity cards guide young learners through explorations that expose them to density, quantity, weight and more. Coupling kids’ natural desire to pour, mix and observe results, this kit provides the extra tweaks that enhance learning aspects that support their future understanding of measurement and mixtures. Kitchen counters, tub ledges and bathroom sinks are the new frontiers of early science learning!
Robot Mouse Coding Activity Set
Smartphone Science Lab
As STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) learning becomes increasingly vital in the academic toolbox of our kids, finding play resources that support STEM is more important than ever. For the kids who are curious about computers, programming, and video games, the Robot Mouse Coding Set is an ideal primer to lay the groundwork for understanding the science behind these marvels. Coding cards guide kids through simple click programming as they plot the mouse’s path through a maze toward the cheese. The mouse features simple directional and action buttons on its back to make programming easy. With 16 maze grids, 22 walls and three tunnels, the maze is ever-changing and the challenges stay versatile. Spatial reasoning, forward thinking and problem solving become child’s play as the basic concepts of coding are made simple.
As smart phones become an increasingly common part of our adult landscape, kids have begun to mimic our attachment to these tech wonders. But what if a smart phone could become a conduit that channels kids’ attention past the screen and toward exploring the world around them? The Smartphone Science Lab comes with a collection of optical attachments (plus slides and an experiment book) that transform the phone into a tool for exploration. Opening young eyes to light waves, pixels, microscopic viewing, satellites, filtered optics and more, the attachments and guided activities encourage scientific learning using the phone as a tool for discovery. The smart phone ceases to be the destination for a child’s attention, but rather a channel for their broader, independent learning.
(SmartLab Toys)
(Learning Resources)
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Stepping Up Your Family’s
Kindness Quota The River Region ROCK (Respect Others, Create Kindness) Task Force recently sponsored “ROCK Kindness Week,” February 14 – 20, 2016, and encouraged citizens across the River Region to engage in random acts of kindness. The event coincided with the international celebration of Random Acts of Kindness Week which ran through February 20 and was celebrated in communities across the world. “Bullying prevention in schools, and creating kinder communities by promoting programs that foster respect and kindness toward others are at the heart of ROCK’s mission,” said Laura Hicks, ROCK Task Force spokesperson. “We encouraged the community to step up its kindness quota during ROCK Kindness Week by finding unexpected ways to be kind to one another.” In addition, several MPS schools did service projects throughout the week that included making baskets for the elderly and clean-up projects. Students at Catoma Elementary observed the occasion with “Teacher Look-Alike Day.” Students dressed like their favorite teacher and classes explored ways that adults can model kindness for children. “Our young people got involved, and adults did, too. We heard from adults who shared how they paid for coffee for the person behind them in line, picked up trash in their neighborhood, and sent
HOW CAN YOUR SCHOOL GET INVOLVED?
FIND OUT AT ROCKTASKFORCE.COM.
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thoughtful notes and emails to encourage people they care about.” Studies show that practicing kindness is more than just a nice thing to do; it’s also beneficial to overall wellbeing. It has also been scientifically proven to Students at Catoma Elementary are rockin’ kindness with boost health, happiness “Teacher Look-a-Like Day”. and societal goodwill. In addition, kindness, Random Acts of Kindness Week is just like physical and academic skills, can be one of the programs promoted by the River enhanced with practice. In an article on Region ROCK Task Force and joined this year randomkindnessweek.org, a researcher by the Montgomery Chamber Convention from the University of Wisconsin found and Visitors Bureau. ROCK’s goals are to that like weight training, people can acturaise awareness of bullying in all its forms; ally build up their compassion “muscle” by educate the community and empower responding to others’ suffering with care young people on ways they can help prevent and a desire to help. bullying; promote programs that advocate Although “ROCK Kindness Week” is respect for others; and foster partnerships over, the members of the River Region with community groups to promote a kinder, ROCK Task Force would like to challenge more respectful River Region. parents to involve their children and step For more information about Random up your family’s kindness quota. Engage Acts of Kindness, visit www.Facebook. your children in a family conversation com/RiverRegionROCK and for more about about kindness, and ask what they think ROCK, visit www.ROCKTaskForce.com or about every member of the family doing email info@ROCKTaskForce.com. one kind act each week for a month (or even a year!). What a wonderful opporIn conjunction with the Montgomery Chapter of tunity to be intentional and mindful of the Public Relations Council of Alabama, Montkindness, and great conversation for the gomery Parents is devoting space for a series of dinner table. articles on bullying to raise awareness.
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Straight Talk About Online Harassment Parents don’t want to think about it, so kids are often unprepared. Cyberbullying may seem like something that happens to other people, but the statistics say otherwise. A study from the Pew Research Center found that, among adults, 40% have experienced online harassment and 73% have witnessed it. For teens, the numbers are a little lower, though researchers note that many adolescents don’t report incidents of cyberbullying for the same reason they don’t talk about offline harassment: They feel intimidated and humiliated. They assume nothing can be done. And they worry talking to adults will make the problem worse. That’s why parents need to be proactive. The hard fact is that most children will eventually encounter people who use the Internet to intimidate, harass and threaten others. The best way to fortify kids is to talk--in advance--about what cyberbullying is, how to prevent it and what can be done when it happens. Here’s some of what your child needs to know: Recognize it when you see it. Cyberbullying comes in many forms. The mildest is mean comments, name-calling and shaming. Painful as this may be for the target, it’s not dangerous. Learning to shake off mean and ignorant comments is a life skill. To give kids perspective, talk about the American tradition of free speech. Even nasty, misinformed people have a right to their opinion. That doesn’t mean your child should give them time or attention. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
Other forms of harassment are more serious, especially if they continue day after day. These include threats of personal harm including rape, spreading lies that damage a person’s reputation, posting personal information including cell phone numbers or sexual photos and techno attacks such as taking control of a social media account. Help your child distinguish between unpleasantness and risk.
Twitter, for example, recently started a Trust and Safety Council “to ensure that people feel safe expressing themselves on Twitter”-and was immediately slammed for restricting free speech. This is a good topic for dinner table discussion before a problem arises. If you were running a social media site, what limits would you put on what people can post? How should someone decide whether to ignore, confront or report a cyberbully?
Be proactive. The best way to deal with any problem is to avoid it. Raise your child with the assumption that people will be kind to each other. Model that way of living in your home, and help your child find friends who respect and appreciate each other. Online, help your child build a community where people treat each other well. Point your child toward the helpful Social Media Safety Guides produced by Heartmob (iheartmob.org/safety_guide). There are separate guides with straightforward explanations of privacy tools for Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Tumblr, and Youtube.
Get creative. Because bullies can’t always be avoided and authorities can’t always be effective, a growing number of people are taking creative steps to make the Internet—or at least corners of it— safer for everyone. Kids who know about these efforts are less likely to feel hopeless about bullying if it happens to them or they witness it. They may still feel shock, shame and even fear, but they will also know that they have allies and role models who have figured out effective ways to respond.
Report—sometimes. Experts give contradictory advice about how to respond to cyberbullies. Some recommend ignoring the behavior because most bullies are looking for reaction and attention. This is especially true online where anyone can say anything to anyone. Others recommend telling the bully to stop. That is also easier—and somewhat safer—online where it’s possible to send a private message that may appeal to the other person’s sense of fair play. Threats of abuse or harm should be documented by saving messages or capturing screen shots. Notify local police or the FBI with the understanding that they may be ineffective because laws lag behind technology in many states. The Cyberbullying Research Center maintains a comprehensive library of materials about cyberbullying including a complete list of regulations in every state (cyberbullying.org/cyberbullying-laws). Internet services are also inconsistent in how they define and respond to harassment. 64
A Thin Line provides detailed information about online harassment and encourages kids to share steps they’ve taken to assert their digital rights. The site, developed by MTV, also has a For Grownups Section that lists helpful resources. (athinline.org/pages/parents-and-educators) BeStrong Emoji are little symbols, distributed by Vodaphone, that allow kids to encourage people who are being harassed. (vodafone.com/ content/parents.html ) We Heart It is a social media app that limits harassment by allowing users to “heart” but not comment on content uploaded by others. (weheartit.com) StompOutBullying runs a free, confidential chat line for teens over 13. Trained volunteers provide support to young people who are distressed about online harassment. (stompoutbullying.org) The Speech Project details all the ways young women can be harassed online. The tools and resources section provides up-to-date information about what girls and young women can do to protect and defend themselves. (wmcspeechproject.com) StopIt is a software platform that allows people within a community to anonymously send screenshots of material that is offensive or abusive. Schools that use the app have seen a reduction in the number of cyberbullying incidents. (stopitcyberbully.com) Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.
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If you’ll be returning to work after your baby is born, you probably know that open daycare spots can go faster than ice cream melts on a hot day. Still, for your child’s wellbeing and your own peace of mind, it pays to get picky.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
Starting about a few months before you’re ready, “visit three to five daycare programs,” says Kris Murray, author of The Ultimate Childcare Marketing Guide and a consultant to the childcare industry. To narrow your selection, here are the top questions Murray suggests asking daycare providers that can help you know if you’ve found the right place--or if you need to keep looking. 66 www.montgomeryparents.com
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1 What activities will my
child do? The code word to listen for
is “curriculum.” With emerging research about early brain development, top childcare programs aren’t glorified babysitters. They’re full-featured learning environments, even at the infant level because learning starts from birth. “There are all sorts of age-appropriate curriculums available now, from baby sign language in an infant room to early reading, nature, science, art, technology and drama programs for toddlers,” Murray says. Each program is typically organized into themes. If the theme is insects, for example, your toddler might be asked to dress up as his favorite bug for the drama unit, paint a bug for the art unit and learn about insects in the computer lab for the technology unit. To you though, it may all just look like fun and games. But that’s the idea. “Children learn best through play,” Murray says.
2 What’s the teacher to
child ratio? It’s important for your
child to get plenty of attention, especially the younger she is. Babies and toddlers
12 months old and younger need an adult to child ratio of no more than 1:4 (one adult per four infants). For toddlers 12 to 28 months old, the ratio should be 1:3, one instructor per three children. Small class sizes of 10 to 12 children or less is preferred too. Even if there are plenty of adults to children, a larger group of toddlers can feel chaotic.
It’s a big plus. Imagine sitting in a meeting and getting a text from your child’s daycare or preschool with a video or photo of a picture he just painted. “Real time streaming helps you stay connected to your child’s day,” Murray says. When you pick your child up, you can say “Look at the cute pictures I got from you today” and talk about them together.
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The best answer is, “No problem. We have an open door policy.” Impromptu parent visits should always be welcome, Murray says. After signing your child up, you should be able to drop by anytime.
“Ask for a list of the teachers, which includes the number of years of experience they’ve had in the field, their degree (in early childhood education for the lead teacher) or the training they’ve had,” Murray says. Lead teachers should also have five to seven years of experience. With practice comes the competence to handle challenging issues, such as fighting and other behavioral problems or potty training in a toddler program.
What’s your policy What are the qualificaabout unannounced visits? tions of your caregivers?
4 How will I know what
my child did all day? Some
daycare centers will distribute a daily activity sheet detailing what each child experienced that day, such as what she had for snack and how often her diaper was changed. Even better is paperless communication. Many daycare centers offer e-mail or texting messages two to four times daily.
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6 Are drop-off and pick-
up hours flexible? If you work
from home sometimes or need a half-day
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help here and there, look for a daycare option works with your nontraditional schedule. Daycare that’s less than fulltime is a growing trend. “For a monthly membership fee, many daycare centers will allow you to drop off your child whenever you want,” Murray says.
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What’s the security situation like? Most childcare
programs are safer than they were five years ago. Some now, for example, have biometrics at the entrance. Instead of punching in a code at the door, you’re be required to place your finger on a pad to enter the building. “Stricter regulations on safety and background checks are now required in many states,” Murray says. When touring a daycare center, ask whether the children are monitored by a secure webcam. Is the feed distributed to the director’s office so there’s oversight of what’s happening in the classroom? (Good.) Can you have access to the feed as well? (Double good.) Not only does camera surveillance provide peace of mind
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
because you can see what’s going on, it allows you to engage in your child’s day (“I saw you help Sam pick up his crayons. That was so nice of you.”) “You get to spy with a positive purpose,” Murray says.
8
How often do the kids get to go outside?
Beyond extremely hot or cold weather, “there’s no excuse for children not to get outside every day,” Murray says. Your childcare center should support the full health of the child, which includes spending time in nature and being active.
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What’s your disaster recovery and emergency policy? If there’s a fire or disaster at the school, you want to know that teachers have been properly trained to respond quickly and effectively to get every child out. Every teacher should be trained in CPR too.
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10 Ask yourself: Am I
comfortable with the environment? After you’ve nar-
rowed it down to your top picks, spend an hour or two hour observing a classroom when the kids are awake (not at nap time). What’s the vibe? The daycare center should feel open and warm-hearted. Teachers should look like they’re happy to be there and engaged with the children. If you get a good feeling about the place, chances are your child will like it too because he’ll pick up on your satisfaction. Finally, confirm your selection by finding out what everyone else has to say. Review testimonials from other parents on the daycare center’s Facebook page and review sites such as Yelp. “Sometimes there are disgruntled employees or an occasional unhappy parent,” Murray says. If you see 10 great reviews and one negative one, you’re probably fine. Look for a preponderance of positive.” mp
Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues.
www.montgomeryparents.com
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Did you know that nearly one-half of child care centers in Alabama are unlicensed and uninspected for basic health and safety standards? Alabama is one of only seven states that allows some child care programs to legally operate unregulated. Alabama’s dual system of child care includes licensed child care that is annually inspected by the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) and exempt child care that is unlicensed and uninspected for compliance with the state’s minimum standards for health and safety, which include staff criminal background checks, appropriate staff-to-child ratios, staff certified in First Aid and CPR, and inspection of the facility and grounds. If you’re looking for child care, here’s what you need to know about the difference.
Licensed child care centers:
• Must submit annual fire and health
department inspection reports with no violations cited. • Are inspected annually by a trained professional from DHR to ensure the program meets Alabama’s Minimum Standards for Day Care Centers and Nighttime Centers. • Must show proof of required documentation, such as staff criminal background checks, staff-to-child ratios, and First Aid and CPR training.
Child care centers operating “exempt” from licensing:
• Are not required to meet Alabama’s Minimum Standards for Day Care Centers and Nighttime Centers. • Are not inspected by DHR or required to submit documentation of a fire and health department inspection, staff criminal background checks, staff-to-child ratios, and First Aid and CPR training.
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Child development specialists have produced extensive research showing that highquality child care programs have a tremendous impact on a child’s intellectual, social, and emotional development. In fact, 90 percent of brain development occurs by the age of five. By asking the right questions and knowing what to look for, you can make the best child care choice for your child. Choosing a high-quality child care program and continuing to look, listen, and ask questions will help ensure your child is in a safe program that nurtures his/her growth and development. Don’t Be In The Dark About Child Care, a campaign of the Alabama Partnership for Children and VOICES for Alabama’s Children, is an effort to inform parents about the health and safety risks associated with Alabama’s uninspected child care programs and provide resources for selecting highquality child care. For more information, resources, and a child care checklist, visit www.alabamachildcarefacts.com. Parents can also email alabamachildcarefacts@ gmail.com or call (866) 711-4025.
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(ad on page 7) 15396 Vaughn Rd.- 277.6566 ext. 220; Website: www.maconeast.net Email: info@maconeast.net Glynn Lott, Headmaster Curriculum: High Reach/Reading & Math for 3 & 4 year, McGraw Hill Reading & Math for Kindergarten Hours: 7:45 – 2:40; Ages: 3, 4, & 5 years Extended day care and early arrival available, Sumer Enrichment Program Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: K3 1:10, K4 1:16, K5 1:18. Call for monthly fees.
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Hope Hull • Hooper Child Care/Early Learning Center
(ad on page 55) 360 Fischer Rd. - 288-2770; Fax: 288.9171 Website: www.hooperacademy.org Debbie Lollar, Director Curriculum: A Beka / Combined Hours: 6:45 a.m. - 5:45 p.m.; Ages: 6 wks. - 4 yrs. Meals: Hot; Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Multiple Child Discount Annual Registration: Call for rates
Millbrook • Poo Bear Academy 2441 Main St - 285.4462 Director: Teresa Williams; Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Special Summer Program Before and After School Care Meals: Hot; Staff/Child ratio: DHR Standards Please call for Annual Registration Fee and for rates
• The Learning Tree Child Development Center
(ad on page 78) Deatsville Hwy. - 285-1188; Fax: 271.4970 Director: Bonnie Wallace Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; Ages: 6 weeks - 12 yrs. Before & After school care Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount depending on age Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Registration fee; Please call for tuition rates. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
Prattville • East Memorial Christian Daycare 1320 Old Ridge Rd. - 358.4110 Religious Affiliation: Southern Baptist Director: Lisa Montgomery Curriculum: Abeka Hours: 7am-6pm; Ages: 6 wks. - K-4 Meals: offer snacks and Hot meal Registration Fee: $65.00; Call for rates • First Baptist Church Kindergarten 138 S. Washington St.— 361.9481; Fax: 365-0688 WebSite: www.fbcprattville.org Email: jamie.robison@fbcprattville.org Jamie Robison, Director Curriculum: Harcourt, Wee Learn by Lifeway, The Wright Skills Phonics Program and Sobut & Bogan Hours: 8:15-11:45; Ages: 3 yrs.-5 yrs. Before school care begins at 7:15, extended program offered for after hours. Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards FBC offers a Mother’s Morning Out Program. Please call them for more info. Annual Registration Fee: Please call for rates
• First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten
(ad on page 77) 211 S. Chestnut St.— 491.3411 Website: www.fpkprattville.com Julie Cavnar, Director Curriculum: Modified Abeka Hours: 8:00-11:45; K3- 3 days/wk., 5 day 3 year old class; K4 - 5 days/wk.; K5 - 5 days/wk. 70
Early drop off and after school program offered Mon.- Fri. till 5:30 p.m. Meals: Children bring snacks Multiple Child Discount Annual Registration Fee; Call for Rates. • Journey Preschool 435 Sheila Blvd. —365.4936 Religious Affiliation: Christian/Non-Denominational Website: www.myjourneychurch.com under preschool heading Allison Hollis, Director; Curriculum: Abeka Hours: 7-6; Ages: 6wks. - 4 yrs. After School Care and summer program offered Meals: Hot; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards. Multiple Child Discount Annual Registration Fee: Please call for rates • Kiddie College 821 Peachtree St. — 365.6156 Email: Kiddiecollegeschool@yahoo.com Evelyn Little, Director Curriculum: The Letter People and High Reach; Hours: 6:15 – 6 p.m.; ages: 6 weeks. -12 yrs. Before & after school care; Summer Program Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Librarian comes once a month. Annual Registration Fee: Please call for rates • KinderCare Learning Center 701 Shelia Blvd. — 365-0470 Website: www.kindercare.com Email: chardy@klcorp.com Director: Charlotte Hardy Curriculum: Preschool at KinderCare and Welcome to Learning www.montgomeryparents.com
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Hours: 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Before & after school care; Meals: Hot Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $55; Call for rates • Prattville Learning Academy 949 Wright St— 361.2223 Director, Mary Ann McKinnley Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm; Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Before and after school care & Special Summer Program Meals: Hot (USDA); Multiple Child Discount Family Support & Family Guidance Staff/Child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Call for weekly rates.
• The Learning Tree Child Development Center
(ad on page 78) 1816 Glynwood Dr. — 365.1451 Caryn Marshall, Director Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 6 weeks - 12 yrs. Before & after school care; Summer program; Meals: Hot Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Registration fee: Call for rates
Wetumpka • Kiddie Kollege 202 Old Montgomery Hwy. — 567.4236 Hazel Downs, Director; Curriculum: Abeka Hours: 6:45 – 5:45; ages: 18mths. - 10 yrs. After school care; Meals: Hot Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates. • Sesame St. Clubhouse Preschool 815 Wilson St. — 567.2715 Chad Baker, Director Curriculum: Full educational program
Hours: 7 - 6; ages: 18 mos. - 9 yrs. Before & after school care; Meals: Hot Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Full camera system that is accessible by parents. One Time Registration Fee: $50 Call for rates • Wee Ones Preschool & Beyond 2425 Dozier Road - 478.4938 Email: weeonespreschoolllc@gmail.com Website: weeonespreschool.info Elana Hayslip, Director Curriculum: High Reach Hours: 6am - 6pm; Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Before & after school care, Summer Program Meals: breakfast, hot lunch & afternoon snack Mother’s Day Out offered; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $100; Call for rates • Wetumpka Preschool Child Development Center & Periscope 502 N. Bridge St. — 567.4689 Debra Davis, Director; Curriculum: High Reach Learning; Creative Curriculum; Accredited: NAEYC Hours: 6:15 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Before & after school care; Special Summer Program, “Periscope” Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $75; Call for rates
Montgomery-36104 • Children’s Learning Center 305 S. Perry St. – 834.7475 Religious Affiliation: Christian Sheila Wilson, Director Curriculum: Pinnacle Hours: 6:30am - 5:30; Ages 6 wks. – 5 years Meals: lunch-hot; 2 snacks; Multiple Child Discount Activities: Computer for 4 year olds, music included, Big Green Bus every Thursday and Tonya Speed Dance every Tuesday. One time registration Fee: $30. Call for rates.
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• Montessori Academy
(ad on page 75) 1025 S. Hull St. — 262.8685 Website: www.montessorimontgomery.com Email: Montgomery.montessori@gmail.com Executive Director: Virginia Remko Director of Admissions, Rhonda Barton Curriculum: Montessori Hours: 6:30 - 5:30; ages: 12 mos. - 6 yrs. Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Requirements. Call for Monthly Tuition • Trinity Church Preschool 1728 S. Hull St. – 262-8830 Email: lconoly@trinitypca.org; Website: www.trinitypca.org Interim Director: Lil Conoly Curriculum: ABeka, Handwriting without Tears, Saxon Hands on Math Hours: 9:30–1:10 M-F; Tuesdays and Thursdays offered two year olds and up; Early room and Late room offered from 8:30 until 3:30; Ages: 4 mo. – Pre K5 yrs. Special Summer Program 8 week program Meals: snack provided for the one year olds, snack bucket for older children; After school activities: Magnificent Mondays Art with Barb Grimes, Barber Elite Soccer (offered before school), Big Green Bus, Play ball, Ballet and Tap Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Please call for rates.
36105 • Bryant’s Child Development Center 3645 Norman Bridge Rd. – 284.4542 Religious Affiliation: Christian/Baptist Carrie Moore, Director Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30; Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs.; Before & after school care, Special Summer Program Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates
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• Garner’s Daycare and Learning Center 3388 S. Hull Street — 261.4223 Mrs. Tanga Gosha, Director Hours: 6:00 – 6:30; ages 6wks – 5 yrs. Meals: snacks and hot meal; Call for fees and rates • My Little Scholars Christian Academy 3427 Norman Bridge Rd. — 269.6600 Religious Affiliation: Non-Denominational Rosemary Jones, Director Curriculum: McMillian Books Hours: 6:45 - 5:30; ages: 2 1/2 yrs. – 12 years Before and after school care; Special Summer program Meals: Hot; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $50; Call for rates • Sunnyside Child Care Center 3784 Norman Bridge Rd; 612.0903 Director – Tracy Hill Curriculum: Little People’s Workshop, Hooked on Phonics and Wee Learn Hours – 5:45 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Ages 6 weeks-12 yrs of age Before and After school care available; Special S ummer Program available Meals: Hot; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Registration fee: Call for rates
36106 • Bethany Child Development Center 714 Cedar St. – 265.5521 Religious Affiliation: Seventh Day Adventist Email: bethanydaycare@knology.net Kim Griggs, Director Curriculum: Child’s World Hours: 6:30 am - 6 pm; ages: 2 1/2 to 5 yrs. (12 in summer) Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: 1:10; 1:20 Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates
• Cloverdale Preschool Academy (ad on page 73) 608 E. Fairview Ave. — 265.7488 Religious Affiliation: Christian/Baptist. Email: snall@cloverdalebaptist.net Sharman Nall, Director Curriculum: ABeka Hours: 7:30 – 5:30; Ages: 6 wks. – 4 yrs. Special Summer Program; Call for rates Montgomery Parents I April 2016
• Evangel Christian Preschool
(ad on page 35) 3975 Vaughn Rd. — 273.0730 Religious Affiliation: Assemblies of God www.ecalions.org; Email: ecaoffice@aol.com Rosemary Hean, Director, and Curriculum: ABeka Hours: 6:30-6; Ages: 6 wks. - 4yrs. Meals: catered; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Multiple Child Discount Activities: ORFF, Gymnastics, computer & dance offered Annual Registration: call for rates
• First UMC Early Childhood Development
(ad on page 45) 2416 W. Cloverdale Park — 834.8964 Website: www.fumcmontgomery.org Email: CDavis@fumcmontgomery.org Christi Davis, Director Curriculum: Child-centered, Christian using spiritual enrichment learning activities to insure success. Hours: 7 - 5:30; Ages, 6 wks. & 5 yrs. Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Developmentally appropriate learning environment. Learn through play, making choices and guided discovery in warm, loving environment. Gymnastics, dance, soccer, music and art offered Annual Registration Fee: Call for Rates
• First United Methodist First School
(ad on page 45) 2416 West Cloverdale Park – 481.0413 Email: JCoblentz@fumcmontgomery.org Director: Jessica Coblentz Curriculum: Challenging age appropriate curriculum Hours: 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. (extended hours offered); Ages: 2 months to Kindergarten Activities: Music program, weekly chapel, field trips, Gymnastics, Dance, Art, Computer and Soccer. Registration fee: Call for rates. • Heritage Baptist Child Development Center 1849 Perry Hill Rd. — 279.0643 Tamira Quattlebaum, Director Hours: 7 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 5 yrs. Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Activities: Mobile Mouse, Barber Elite Soccer and Flip Factory available. Weekly chapel for 2 - 5 year olds. Registration: $50.00; Supply fee: $50 72
• Learning Tree Child Development Center
(ad on page 78) 4120 Carmichael Rd. — 271.4733 Director: Ruby Davis Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 12 mos. - 12 yrs. Before & after school care; Meals: Hot Multiple Child & Baptist Hospital Employee Discount. Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Registration fee: Call for rates
• Montessori at Mulberry
(ad on page 17) 2034 Clubview Street Phone: 265-7733 or (334) 315-3848 Email: casadebambini@aol.com Website: http://montessoriatmulberry.com Director: Terri Jackson Curriculum: Each child is encouraged to reach his/ her full potential in all areas of life. The specific needs of individual children are met at each developmental level. Our curriculum, which is challenging, interdisciplinary and real world related, provides a strong academic bridge to elementary school. Ages/grades: age 12 months through Kindergarten Registration Deadline: Open as space permits Testing Requirements: Personal interview Tuition: Please call for more information. • New Horizons Preschool 213 S. Madison Terrace — 834.9403 Cammie Thomas, Director Curriculum: Little People’s Workshop, Hooked on Phonics, Wee Learn Hours: 6:30 – midnight; ages: 6wks. – 12 yrs. Before & after school care; Special Summer Program Meals: Hot; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards All certified teachers. Registration fee: $45.00 • Second Mom’s Childcare and Learning Center 2703 Highland Ave. – 832.9403 Sandra Hill, Director Curriculum: ABeka and Baby Can Read Hours: 6 am- 6 pm.; ages: 6 wks. - 14 yrs. Before and after school pickups, extended care and summer program available Meals: Hot Breakfast, Lunch + 2 snacks; Staff Child ratio: DHR standards All certified teachers; Registration fee: $35.00 • Second Mom’s Childcare and Learning Center, Too 2726 Highland Ave.; Phone: 832.1876 Sandra Hill, Director Curriculum: ABeka www.montgomeryparents.com
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Hours: 6 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Ages: 2 1/2 -14 yrs Before and after school pickup; Extended care and summer program available Meals: Hot Breakfast, Hot Lunch + 2 snacks; Staff Child ratio: DHR standards All certified teachers. Registration fee: $35.00
• Vaughn Park Church of Christ Mothers’ Day Out & Preschool
(ad on page 74) 3800 Vaughn Road; Phone: 272.2665 Director: Denise Nelson Curriculum: varies by ages Hours: 9:00- 1:00 Tues/Wed/Thur.; Ages/grades: 6 weeks – 4 yrs. Meals: snack provided; Rates: call for rates Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards
• Zelia Stephens Early Childhood Center Alabama State University, 1100 Tuscaloosa Street Phone: 229.4470; Email: SHinton@alasu.edu Director: Sandra Hinton; Curriculum: Saxon Hours: 8 – 5:15; Ages: 3 yrs. – 7 yrs. Extended hours and after school care available Meals: Hot, Gourmet Food Services; Staff/child ratio: 1:15 Registration fee; Call for rates
36108 • Central Alabama OIC, Inc. (ad on page 68) 2035 Mobile Road - 265.1594 www.centralalabamaoic.com Ages: 5 weeks to school age
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Snack Hours: 6:50 am to 5:30 pm Monday thru Friday DHR Licensed; Starting at $80/week; Subsidized Childcare Accepted Offering SMART Board: Computer Based Instruction • Hansel and Gretel Preschool 3010 Mobile Hwy. — 269.5644 Rita Faye Green, Director Curriculum: Creative Hours: 7 - 5:30; Ages: 8 weeks - 12 yrs. Before and after care; Special Summer Program Meals: Hot; Staff/child Ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $50 • Kamp-A-Demics 2308 Dillard St. - 221.3101 Director: Vivian Gadson Curriculum: Pre-K, Play-based, and Creative Ages/grades: 2 months – 12 yrs.; Hours: 6:30am – 5:30pm Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack Registration: $25; Rates: $85+/week Other: Certified Teachers • Kids First Day Care Center 1955 Walnut Street — 269.4657 Rhonda Thompson, Contact; Curriculum: Preschool Hours: 6:30-5:30; Ages: 6wks. – 12 yrs. (summer) Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/Child ration: DHR Standards No Registration Fee; Call for Rates • New Generation Preschool 3461 Old Selma Rd. — 263.9660 Email: ngpkids@knology.net
Agnes Attia, Director Curriculum: ABeka Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 15 yrs. Before & after school care; Special Summer Program Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration: $50 • Peppermint Hill Learning Center 1217 Oak Street-- Phone: 230.9650 Email: ceeb57@aol.com; Director: Cynthia Mull Curriculum: Creative Ages: 6 month - 6 years Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Meals: Catered, 2 snacks and 1 hot meal Staff/child ratio: 1:12 for 5 year old; 1:11 for 3 year olds; 1:5 for 6 mth. - 2 ½ year olds. Call for rates • Southlawn Child Care Center 125 Greenleaf Dr. — 286.1056 or 286.9156 Fax: 286-1958; Email: southlawn1@aol.com Elizabeth Sankey, Director Curriculum: Creative Hours: 5:30 – 5:30; ages: infant - 15 yrs. Before & after school care Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $50; call for rates
36109 • Covenant Kids Child Development Center 9 Arden Road, Phone: 356.9110 Website: www.covenantkidsmontgomery.com Email: covenantkidsmontgomery@gmail.com
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Director: Kim Herbert Curriculum: Pinnacle Faith-based Curriculum Hours: 7:00-5:30; ages 6 weeks. - 5 years Meals: Morning snack, hot lunch, and afternoon snack provided Multiple Child Discount, Call for rates Now registering for fall. Call to schedule a tour. • East YMCA Kindergarten & Child Care 3407 Pelzer Ave. — 272.3390 Website: www.ymcamontgomery.org Ruth Davis, Director; Curriculum: High Reach Hours: 7 - 6; Ages: 6 weeks - 5yrs. Special Summer Programs Meals: catered Monday-Wednesday, ThursdayPizza Day and Friday- snack lunch Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Association. Wade pool, gym activities, music, Bible stories. Annual Registration Fee: $25
• Eastern Hills Baptist Day Care 3604 Pleasant Ridge Rd. – 277.5424 Website: www.easternhillsonline.com Stacy Royal, Director Curriculum: ABeka Hours: 7 - 5:30 p.m.; Ages: 6 wks. - 5 yrs.; Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Activities: Orff Music, Dance and Big Green Bus. Rates: Call for weekly rates
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• Eastmont Baptist Church Kindergarten & Mother’s Day Out 4505 Atlanta Hwy. — 244.9324 Director: Sherry Wallace Curriculum: ABeka Hours: 9:30 - 1:30, Mon.-Fri.; Ages: 6 wks. - 5 K Meals: brown bag; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Call for rates
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• Resurrection Early Child Care 2815 Forbes Drive—265.4615 website: www.rcs-rcmsouth.org Director: Cassandra Copeland Hours: 7:45 – 3:10 (Extended care available 3:10 – 5:30) Ages: 4-5 yrs. Meals: Hot (breakfast, lunch & snack) Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratios: DHR Standards. Call for rates
• Green Gate School
(ad on page 15) 3265 McGehee Rd. — 281-3300 Director of Education: Yvonna Richardson Headmaster: Kenneth Richardson Founded: in 1971, Green Gate has fostered the joy
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of learning for over forty years. As educators we recognize all children learn differently. We honor each student’s different learning style. Green Gate places the needs of the child first. We are accredited through AdVanced Ed formerly SACS. Testing: We accept testing and Progress reports from accredited schools only. We may require students to take a placement test upon admission. Testing is also available to identify learning differences and disabilities for a reasonable fee. Learning Accommodations: We are happy to implement accommodations or recommendations designated by a professional educator or physician. Once again we are qualified to test and identify learning differences and disabilities. Tutoring: On site tutoring for students both during the academic day and before or after school is available for a reasonable fee. Enrollment: We except One- Hundred students, Toddlers through Eighth Grade. This allows us to maintain a low student/teacher ratio. Curriculum: Teachers implement innovative instructional techniques allowing bright children to excel at their pace, along with encouraging and discovering new ways to help struggling students find success. Additional strategies include supporting children’s play, using encouragement instead of praise, and taking a problem-solving approach to conflict. Working with the theories of play and our Pre-School students are encouraged to explore and learn in a unique Our outdoor classroom provides an even more unique approach to learning. We use the HIGHSCOPE curriculum. Meals: Green Gate is a lunch box school; we provide organic milk or fruit juice for a lunch drink. We serve two healthy nutritious snacks morning and afternoon Enrollment: Fees: $150 Registration and Curriculum and Cot fees of $225 Call for full day 2, 3, or 5 day rates, half days rates also available. Family Discounts: Multiple 5% Child Discount on siblings. Please ask about our Elementary Scholarship Programs. Extras: Mobile Mouse, Tonya Speed dance, Orff Music. Before & after school care; Special Summer Program , Scouts Green Gate has no formal church affiliation and accepts students of all races and religions. • Whitfield Kindergarten 2673 Fisk Rd. — 281.2470; Fax: 281.2698 Jane Ruud, Director; Curriculum: Combined Hours: 7:30 - 4:15 & 9 – 1 (Mother’s Day Out); Ages: 4 mos. - 5 yrs. Special Summer program, aftercare pickup for Dannelly and Bear; Optional late pick up 5:30 Meals: brown bag; Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Activities: Dance offered Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Multiple Child Discount; Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates
36116 • Aldersgate Weekday Children’s Ministries
(ad on page 73) 6610 Vaughn Rd. — 277.0880 Website: www.aldersgateumc.org under Children’s Ministry; Religious Affiliation: Christian/Methodist Lana Ward and Katie Blair, Co-Directors Curriculum: Creative Curriculum, Letter of the Week, Handwriting Without Tears 75
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Teach thematic units using social studies, science, math, language, art and music through a hands-on program. Hours: 7:30 - 5:30; Preschool; Ages: 6 weeks – Pre K 4 Summer Program (Rising 1-5th grade) Meals: Hot; Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Other: Surveillance system, Code entry and 3 separate playgrounds. Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates. • Century 2000 4714 Virginia Loop Road – 288.7740 Web: www.century2000daycare.com Director: Mrs. Deramus Curriculum: Abeka Hours: 5 a.m. to midnight; Ages: 3 wks – 15 years
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Snack; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards. Call for fees and rates • Lighthouse Christian Academy 3570 Bell Rd. — 271.4200 Website: www.lcapirates.com Email: info@lcapirates.com Gary Mohney, Principle Curriculum: ABeka Hours: 8 a.m. – 12:30 preschool or full day; Ages: K2- 10th Before and after school care hours: 7 to 6 p.m. Meals: Catered; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Call for rates and fees • New Life Care 5600 Carriage Hills Drive. – 288.5723 Website: www.nlcogic.org Email: tydirect@nlcogic.org Director: Crystal Philyaw Curriculum: Creative Hours: 6:30am – 6; ages 6 wks. – 4 yrs. Before and after school care, Summer Enrichment Meals: Hot Meals, snacks provided
• St. James School Kindergarten
Before and after school care program; Special Summer program. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snack. For those staying late, dinner and snack offered. Drop off & Pick up for the following: Vaughn Road, Dannelly, Lighthouse Christian Academy, Halcyon Elementary, James K. Wilson, McKee, Winton M. Blount, Brewbaker, Fitzpatrick, MacMillan, Peter Crump and Seth Johnson. Call for monthly rates. • JAAD’s Child Care & Development Center 4002 St. Louis Rd. – 284.9055 Email: jaads_inc@yahoo.com Website: www.jaadschildcare.com Theresa Hardwick, Director; Established 1996 Curriculum: self-developed Hours: 6 am-6 pm; ages: 4wks. -15 yrs. Before & After School Care; Night care available Montgomery Parents I April 2016
(ad on page 1) 6000 Vaughn Rd.—277.8033 ext. 155 Website: www.stjweb.org Jim Terry, Principal Curriculum: Pre-K3, Pre-K4 and Kindergarten use an integrated approach with literature, art, music and science to introduce readiness skills with hands-on activities. Hours: 7:45 – 12:00; ages: K3 – K4, full day option available. Extended school day 7:45-2:45 for K5; after school care until 5:30 Special Summer Program (Camp STJ) Meals: Catered; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: 2:14. Call for Rates
• The Learning Tree Child Development Center (ad on page 78) 3335 Woodley Rd. — 284.5560 Malkia Mathews, Director Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; Ages: 6 weeks - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; 76
Special Summer Program/Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Call for Weekly Rates • Treasures of Life 4701 Narrow Lane Road Phone: 819-4202 Director: Kay Turpin Hours: 6:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; 6 weeks to 12 years Before and after school care programs offered Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snack provided. Classroom video monitoring Certified staff; Please call for rates
36117 • AUM Early Childhood Center
(ad on page 71) 7051 Senator’s Drive -244-3441 Email: bnorvell@aum.edu Dr. Barbie Norvell, Director Curriculum: Project Based, Research Driven, and Thematic Hours: 7:30am - 5:30 pm M-F Ages: 3-5 years, potty trained Meals: Hot meal or sack lunch from home, two snacks Staff Ratio: 1:6 Annual Registration Fee: Call for Rates • Bo Peep Christian Child Development School 5690 Atlanta Hwy. – 271.1941 Supervisor: Christine Itle Director: Brooke Woodfin Assistant Director: Amanda Cruikshank Curriculum: Abeka Hours: 6:30-6 p.m.; Ages: 6 weeks. – 12 years Meals: Hot, Before & after school care Multiple Child Discount; Special Summer program Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards or better Summer camp, swimming, Flannel board Bible stories, games, art, puppet shows. Call for rates.
• Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten
(ad on page 77) 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Phone: 279.0271 Founded: 1974; Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Website: www.frazerkindergarten.com Director: Jill Struthers Curriculum: ABeka Hours: 8:30 - 12:30 a.m.; Ages: 3 yrs. - K4 & K5 Early drop off and extended day available; Mother’s Morning Out offered for 6 wks-2 yrs. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Activities: Music, field trips, chapel, physical education and gymnastics. Strong faculty with unwavering interest in your child. Tuition: Call for details • GracePointe Child Development Center 1565 Ray Thorington Road - 799.8390 Founded: 1974; Religious Affiliation: Christian/ Church of Christ Director: Sharon Kilpatrick Curriculum: Play-Based, Beyond Centers and Circle Time Hours: 9 a.m.– 1 p.m.; Ages/grades: Birth – 4 years old Meals: Snack provided, bring lunch; Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Surveillance system, coded entry and two separate playgrounds. Please Call for rates • Kiddie Home Daycare at Mitylene Forest 618 Silver Moon Court, 221.4446 or 396.2598 Email: lizamay1972@yahoo.com Director: Leeza Beaulieu Ages/grades: 6 weeks to 12 years Hours: 6:30a.m. Until 5:30 p.m. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snacks DHR standards Please call for rates • Kindercare Learning Centers 6955 Halcyon Park Dr. — 270.5955 WebSite: www.kindercare.com; Email: ctate@klcorp.com Courtney Tate, Director Curriculum: Early Foundations Hours: 6:30 - 6; Ages: 6 wks. to 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Special Summer Program; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards; Annual Registration Fee: $60; Call for Rates
• Learning Tree Child Dev. Ctr. (ad on page 78) 1767 Halcyon Blvd. — 272.3188 Darlene Tucker, Director Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; Ages: 6 weeks - 12 yrs.; Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Special Summer Program; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards. Call for rates
• Legacy Early Learning Center
(ad on page 69) 2323 Bell Road (located next to the Bell Road YMCA)- (334) 649.4601 Director: Tara Harris Curriculum: Christian Based Pre-school Curriculum Hours: 6:30 – 5:45; Ages: 6 weeks - K4 Meals: Lunches and two snacks provided; Special Summer program Staff/child ratio: by DHR guidelines. Call for rates • Little Explorers Learning Center 181 Eastern Blvd., (334) 272.3307 Website: http://www.riversedgechurch.us/littleexplorers.html Director: Jennifer Mitchell Curriculum: Bible based Hours: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Ages: 6 weeks to 5 years Meals: lunch and snack for toddler and preschool Staff/child ratio: DHR standards 77
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• Memorial Presbyterian Church Children’s Center
(ad on page 74) 2130 Bell Rd. – 274.1018 Elizabeth Murphy, Director; Curriculum: Thematic Units Hours: Full day and half-day offered, Ages: 2 months to 4 years. Summer program for 2 months to 1st grade Early and late rooms available; Meals: Brown Bag Chapel and music daily; Enrichment classes offered Staff/Child ratio: DHR guidelines. Call for rates • Montessori at Hampstead 5251 Hampstead High Street Unit#111 Phone: 356.1969; Founded: 2011 Email: info@montessoriathampstead.org Website: www.mshmontgomery.org Curriculum: Montessori Hours: 7:30 until 5:30; Ages/grades: 18 months – 15 years; Middle School (7th, 8th & 9th grade)
Meals: Hot meals available or brown bag Testing Requirements: Interview required, Ed Psych Test, Transcripts for students 6 and up Activities: P.E., Music, Big Green Bus, Dance, Tennis, Farm Class. Please call for rates • Motherly Care 70 Ashburton Dr. - Phone: 356.1571 Owner: Joyce Pearson Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. extended care until 7 p.m. Ages: 3 weeks until 12 years of age Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snack Curriculum: Early Start; Registration fee: $25
• “Mrs. Sandy’s House” Home Daycare
(ad on page 79) Halcyon South off Taylor Rd. - 271.KIDS (5437) Owner: Sandy McGaughey Instagram @ Mrs_Sandys_Home_Daycare Curriculum: Hands-on activities and age appropriate readiness skills
Hours: 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.; Ages: Newborn – 4 years Specializing in Newborn and toddler care; licensed by DHR. Call for rates. • St. James Christian Preschool 9045 Vaughn Rd. — 277.3412 Leah Winn, Director Curriculum: Teacher developed including hands-on activities and age appropriate readiness skills; Hours: 9 - 1; Ages: 8 mos. - kindergarten Meals: Brown Bag, snack provided; Late day offered Staff/Child Ratio: DHR standards Call for Registration fee and monthly rates
• Taylor Road Christian Kindergarten & Mom’s Day Out (ad on page 85) 1685 Taylor Rd. — 271.0845 Religious Affiliation: Christian/Baptist
N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2016 2011
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Website: www.taylorroad.org (link to preschool) Holly Nichols, Director Curriculum: ABeka & Wee Care for MDO Kindergarten Hours: 9-1 (Mon - Thurs) Ages: K3 – K4; Mother’s Day Out Hours: 9-1 (Mon-Thurs) Ages: 6 wks. -36 months. Before & after care available; Special Summer Program (6 wks. – 6th); Meals: Brown Bag Staff/Child Ratio: Better than DHR Standards. Call for Rates • Vaughn Forest Preschool and Kindergarten 8660 Vaughn Rd. — 277.0362 Mary James Newsom, Director Curriculum: High Reach and Letter People Hours: 9 – 1 p.m.; Ages: 18 months – 5 years Early and late day offered Meals: Children bring sack lunch and snack; Certified Teachers Staff/Child Ratio: Better than DHR standards. Please call for rates
• Vaughn Road Preschool
(ad on page 67) 8790 Vaughn Road (at Immanuel Presbyterian Church) - 277-4815 Barbara Anderson, Director Email: vrpreschool@gmail.com Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Curriculum: Creative Curriculum; linked to the WV Early Learning Standards Framework in Social and Emotional Development, the Arts, Physical Health and Development, Mathematics and Science. Meals: Lunch and 2 snacks provided Staff/Child Ratio: DHR Standards (better in Nursery), DHR licensed Fees: Call for rates • YMCA Goodtimes Before and After School Programs Contact YMCA Goodtimes Center for additional information: 2325 Mill Ridge Dr.—279.8666; Fax: 279.5784. Website: www.ymcamontgomery.org Before School Care at these locations: Forest Ave. Elem. 7 a.m.- 8:15 a.m. McMillian 7 a.m.- 8:20 a.m. Bear Elem. 7 a.m.- 8:30 a.m. Wares Ferry Elem. 6:45 a.m. -.8 a.m. Halcyon Elem. 6:45 a.m. -8 a.m. Garrett Elem. 6:45 a.m. -8 a.m. Brewbaker Elem. 6:30 a.m.-8 a.m. Wilson Elem. 6:45 a.m.-8 a.m. Please call for rates and fees After School Care at these locations: Baldwin Jr. High, Bear Exploration Center, Blount Elem., Brewbaker Elem., Carr Middle School, Catholic Middle, Children’s Center, Crump Elem., Dannelly Elem., Dozier Elem., East YMCA, Fitzpatrick Elem., Flowers Elem., Floyd Elem., Forest Ave. Elem., Garrett Elem., Halcyon Elem., Holy Spirit, Macmillan at McKee Elementary, Morningview Elem., Pintlala Elem., St. Bede’s, Vaughn Rd. Elem., Wares Ferry Elem. and Wilson Elementary. Snack included; Hours 3-6pm, Afternoon snack. Multiple child Discount; Please call for rates and fees mp Please let us know if your child care facility was not included in this listing by emailing editor@montgomeryparents.com. We’ll make sure it’s included in our next Child Care Issue.
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A Page in a Book Getting Lost in a Book The word ‘lost’ is an early arrival in most children’s vocabulary. It applies to every important thing in a child’s world that becomes “unfindable” at some point. One sock, the best pacifier, the last cookie (fallen in the carseat), the favorite blanket, an irreplaceable toy – all these things gain critical importance and meaning in the moment that a child realizes they are ‘lost’. And the search begins. And like every search, unexpected treasures are found along the way. The following titles all examine the process of finding something that is hidden or lost, and what is revealed in the journey of discovery.
Alfie’s Lost Sharkie
by Anna Walker (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) When Dad announces bath time, Alfie becomes instantly aware that his beloved Sharkie is missing. The search begins as Alfie looks for his favorite toy in all the customary places (and many outside the norm). With his Dad struggling to keep the evening routine on track, every step along the way is punctuated by new places that Alfie needs to explore in his effort to find Sharkie. With a Dad who is exasperated by all the side-trips, delays and restless resistance from a child who refuses to give up the search, parents will find familiar scenarios throughout this charming journey toward bedtime. Walker’s expressive artwork and soft colors smooth out the mania that accompanies lost ‘lovies’ making it an ideal find for bedtime reading.
Clark in the Deep Sea
by R.W. Alley (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) It’s a rainy afternoon on the porch as a group of siblings each find their own way to stay busy and dry. But the mood changes when youngest sister Annabelle’s imaginary circus performance flies off the high wire as the star attraction. Her beloved stuffed bear launches out into the soggy sea of the yard. Brother Clark springs into action and dives deep within the wet surrounds (and his own colorful musings) as he seeks to find and bring back the lost bear. The dog plays the shark, an umbrella becomes a bathysphere and siblings evolve into an undersea recovery team with a mission to save the day. A make-believe search and rescue has very real implications when a beloved member of the party needs finding!
Where’s the Elephant?
by Stephane-Yves Barroux (Candlewick Press) An elephant, a snake and a parrot enter a wilderness, effectively disappearing in a riot of foliage and color. With only a brief introduction to the animals, young eyes begin searching each subsequent two-page spread to see if they can find the hidden trio. This becomes more challenging as the elephant, snake and parrot camouflage themselves within a search grid (the forest) that’s becoming smaller with each turn of the page. Inspired by his trip to the Amazon where he saw deforestation first-hand, Barroux subtly illustrates the effects of habitat loss within this colorfully rendered and hopeful adventure. Eye-opening in more ways than one, Where’s the Elephant is an inspirational twist on the traditional seek-and-find title.
Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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Montgomery Student Invited to Compete In Augusta National Golf Finals Blount Elementary school third-grader Lauryn Olivia Leonard is among the nation’s top 80 junior golfers (40 boys and 40 girls) to represent 30 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces in the upcoming Drive, Chip and Putt Championship (DCP) National Finals. The competition will be held at Augusta National Golf Club on April 3, prior to the start of the Masters Tournament and will be broadcast live on national television via the Golf Channel at 7 a.m. Central Time. Leonard’s unbelievable journey to the DCP National Finals began on June 10, 2015, when she won her age division (girls 7-9) at the DCP Local Qualifier in Smyrna, Tenn. She then advanced to the DCP Sub-Regional Qualifier in Knoxville. Again, Leonard was victorious as the overall winner in the girls 7-9 age division. That qualified her for the Regional Qualifier which was held in Louisville, Ky., at the famed Valhalla Golf Course. On Sept. 12, Leonard won the Girls 7-9 Division at Valhalla on the strength of her chipping and putting skills. This officially gave her the honor of being a 2016 DCP National Finalist. She is one of the nation’s few to make the cut for the highly coveted National
Drive, Chip and Putt Championship. She also has the distinct honor of being the only girl from the entire state of Alabama to compete at the National Finals in Augusta, proudly representing Montgomery. “Lauryn was born a golf champion and is gifted with natural golf instincts,” says Quincy Leonard, Lauryn’s father and golf coach. “She has excellent fundamentals and grasps them well; her putting and chipping skills are the strongest areas of her game. The best part is that she loves to play, which makes my job easier as her coach/ dad.” Together, the father and daughter team are working hard on improvements in preparation for the competition that awaits them in Augusta. Finalists will use the Masters Tournament practice facility for driving and chipping, and will get to putt on the legendary 18th green at Augusta National.
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Do aU Mc lev era to ow to hig qu Leonard first began playing golf at age three with her older brother and her father. Since the age of six, she has enjoyed playing tournament golf through various youth golf tours like US Kids Golf (USKG), accumulating more than 12 tournament wins (1st place) & earning USKG Player of the Year status. Leonard is shown above receiving a congratulatory hug and kiss.
To share your special news, e-mail editor@montgomery parents.com by the 12th of each month.
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Docarmo’s Instructors Earn National Certification
Several Black Belt instructors from Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center attended a USA Taekwondo Referee Seminar in McDonough, Georgia, to receive national level certification as USAT referees. Several levels of referee range from regional to international. It is the goal of school owner Master Anne Docarmo to continue to educate her Black Belts to receive higher levels of certification. USAT also requires all referees and coaches to receive
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a background check and undergo Safe Sport training. “We are pleased that our national organization requires those in contact with young students to undergo a background check which means our instructors are specifically trained to work with young students in creating a safe environment for them,” Docarmo said. “Also, Safe Sport is endorsed by the United States Olympic Committee; athletes will perform better, soar higher, and get more from sport if they feel safe. Through education, resources, and training, we help members of the sport community recognize, reduce, and respond to misconduct in sport. Families can rest assured when their students attend a class that we have taken the steps needed to keep their students as safe as possible. We believe that continuing education is important for all of our students.” More than 45 people from across the Southeast attended the National Level Seminar hosted by the Georgia Taekwondo Foundation and led by Master John Sieber, International USAT Referee.
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Those first days of school or daycare can be a doozy for young children and parents when it’s time to say goodbye. While separation anxiety is a natural part of development, a parent’s response to it is critical for children to make healthy transitions and begin to trust caregivers and teachers. Parenting coach Liz Warrick says there are definite no-no’s when it comes to saying goodbye as outlined below. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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Bye-Bye Don’ts 1. Don’t sneak away. It’s tempting. But the disappearing act actually creates more fear in your child and does not help your child learn the important ritual of saying goodbye. 2. Don’t ask: “Is it ok for mom to leave now?” Um. Bet I can guess the response, and there really is only one answer. 3. Don’t bribe your child with a treat. Bribing sets a bad precedent for both of you as you will be forced to always amp up the bribe to get the behavior you desire. 4. Don’t linger. It’s tempting. But just scram.
Healthy Goodbye Rituals Author of 151 Ways to Help Your Child Have a Great Day at School (2009) and parenting expert Robin McClure suggests creating a parting ritual. “Maybe it is a special hug or handshake, a kiss and a twirl, or a set verbal exchange between you (such as “I love you best because...”).” Get creative so these formerly tough moments make way for fun memories.
A Jedi Goodbye. Social worker and blogger Dana Aderhold came up with a clever customized ritual. “When my son was four he started a new preschool where
he didn’t know any of the other students. We created the ‘Jedi Goodbye;’ when my husband or I dropped him off at preschool we would do a secret light saber signal that was our goodbye ritual. It meant that ‘the force was with him’ until we picked him up. He found this very reassuring.”
Less Guilt-riddled Goodbyes.
Consistent Goodbyes. Mom, daycare owner, and blogger Nicole Dash says “It is a good idea to say goodbye in the same way each day. If you help your child hang up his/her coat and then give a kiss and hug before turning and leaving with a wave, then do not break that routine by one day sitting and playing.” Also, Dash says consistent means it is important you not try to shortcut the goodbye because you are running late.
Smiley Goodbyes. Warrick says
Low Stress Goodbyes. Parents should keep their emotions in check and fake it if necessary. Dash says it’s not a coincidence when your child chooses to melt down and cling to you on a day you are running late to a meeting. “Never tell your child you are running late, or show signs of stress. This will place undue stress on your child and will make the morning miserable for everyone.”
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There will be days your child will cry due to fatigue, a cold, etc. Dash says, “Whatever the reason, these sad goodbyes do not usually last longer than it takes you to get back into your car. It does not mean they hate you for leaving them in daycare.”
on the big day, keep smiling and stay positive. “Remind your child of all the ‘new and exciting things’ they will do. If you are confident about your child’s new environment, your child will be positive to.”
Courageous Goodbyes. Dr. Laura Markham has this advice when it is you shedding the tears: “Have faith in your child, and in nature. Nature designed kids to hang onto their parents for protection, but to start exploring once they feel safe. Worrying about leaving your child at school is a way of saying you don’t believe he can cope…have faith in your child’s inner strength to rise to the occasion and grow.” mp Michele Ranard has a husband, two sons, and a master’s in counseling. She blogs at http://hellolovelystudio.com and http://hellolovelychild.blogspot.com.
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Applications Due April 15 for Local Pageant
The 6th Little Miss River Region Pageant will be held on Saturday, April 23, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall in Prattville. The pageant is open to females, age 12 months to 19 years, with six age categories. All contestants will compete in Casual Wear and Formal Wear for this pageant. For ages 6 years and up, attire is a long pageant gown. This is a semi-natural pageant where age-appropriate makeup and attire are stressed. This annual pageant will offer a Grand Supreme title for a $25 entry fee and $5 optional categories including Best Formal Wear, Best Casual Wear, Most Photogenic, Prettiest Smile, Hair, Eyes, Top Model and Best Personality. Registration fee is $50. A People’s Choice Crown and Sash will be awarded in each age division for the contestant who raises the most money for Children’s Miracle Network. For more info or applications, visit www. SterlingMiss.org or call (334) 313-5444.
Girl Scout Operation Cookie Care Package Underway
Girl Scout cookie season offers a variety of delicious, mouth-watering cookies, but its real focus is teaching girls five basic skills that are essential to leadership, to success, and to life: goal setting, decision-making, money management, people skills, and business ethics. In addition to the five skills, through Operation Cookie Care Package, girls learn how to give back to those who give so much – our armed forces. Operation Cookie Care Package (OCCP) is a program through which customers make donations to Girl Scout troops that are used to purchase Girl Scout cookies for our brave military troops and individuals in veterans’ hospitals. At the end of the cookie season on March 6, girls will turn in their donations, and the council will place a special OCCP order with the cookie baker. In May, ABC Bakers will deliver cookies to the designated military organizations. Also, the Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama council will donate cookies to local military branches. “Operation Cookie Care Package provides a wonderful way for individuals in our community to both support our Girl Scouts and our brave members of the military,” said Karlyn Edmonds, chief operating officer for Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama. “We are delighted to share with the girls we serve yet another opportunity to make a difference in the world around them.” For more information on how to donate to Operation Cookie Care Package, or to locate a troop, please e-mail communications@girlscoutssa.org or call (800)-239-6636.
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Family Karate Center News
4-H Rifles Club Competes In Dixie Challenge
The 4-H River Region Rifles Club recently competed in the Dixie Challenge 2016 Cup match at the CMP in Anniston. The team took third place in the air rifle match. The 4-H River Region Rifles Club meets Monday nights starting at 6 p.m. with a location to be announced. It is a perfect opportunity for youngsters to learn gun safety and to shoot straight. We use the NRA Civilian Marksmanship program where the shooter progresses through different levels and is awarded certificates each time he completes a level, all the way to Distinguished Expert. Equipment is provided. For more info, contact shooting coach Ed Boyett at (334) 281-8370. From left are Jacob Miller, Tamara Phillips, Sarah Phillips and Dawson Kissik. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
The Family Karate Center in Montgomery hosted a “Stay Safe” seminar recently for ages 5 and up. Children and adults were taught basic survival skills against aggressive attacks, and attacks from child predators. Adults were then trained in knife and gun defense tactics that our military also uses. Students used rubber knives and guns to see what happens in a real street attack, and many parents became involved in the question-asking session. “I hate that our society is such that we must train for situations like this,” said Master Instructor Carole Smith, “but we all need to be prepared at any time whether at home, at school, at our jobs, or in public. We will be offering free classes with this information for the public, to keep YOUR family safe!” Free classes in “Stay Safe Defense” will be offered in March just for calling or stopping by. Call 220-9319 for more information. Two- through four-year-olds may try free classes also. Shown, students train with Street Defense Tactics with Family Karate Center and instructor John St. James.
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Saint James School kindergartners, twin brothers Hoke and Will Brantley, recently held their sixth birthday party at Looney’s Skating Rink. Instead of receiving traditional birthday gifts, they asked their guests to bring donations for the Montgomery Humane Society. Friends donated dog and cat food, treats, toys, towels, leashes and collars, as well as monetary donations. This is the fifth year the boys have collected donations for charitable groups instead of birthday gifts. At prior birthday parties, the boys have collected donations for Brantwood Children’s Home and Children’s Center School.
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Flimp Festival
May 7 * 10 a.m-2 p.m. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts continues its partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet High School for the 27th annual Flimp Festival. There will be live performances by the BTW students, hands-on art projects in the Museum studios, interactive demonstrations with Museum Store artists, a scavenger hunt, concessions, and amazing chalk art created by the public with the festivities being kicked off by the ever popular Do-Dah Pet Parade. This event is FREE for all MMFA members, active duty military and their immediate families. Tickets can be purchased the day of the event and are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Visit www.mmfa. org for details. 87
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Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing
Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. In Grandma’s Attic, kids can try on clothes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities to do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. Follow us on Facebook, call 242-4435 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs meeting on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building). Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333.
First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the Civil War and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Friday Night Hoops Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must play basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ ymcamontgomery.org.
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 and help new residents do the same. For information on meetings and locations, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-9897 or nschrull@ knology.net. Prattville Movie Club (for Teens) Meeting twice a month on Fridays, current Prattville Movie Club members range from 14-18 years old and meet at the Carmike Promenade 12 on Cobbs Ford Road. There are no GPA requirements and no class requirements. We are friends who enjoy moviegoing and want to meet others who
Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!
“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. Brain Pump is a group exercise class, targeting children 4-12 years old. The class is the collaboration of a physical therapist and a kinesiology professor combining traditional therapy and exercise concepts with the latest cutting edge research on movement and the brain. This is all done in a fun, energetic setting, that seems much more like playing than exercising. Brain Pump is taught at Metro Fitness on Saturdays from 11-11:45 a.m. Contact Tiffany Higginbotham at Body Logic PT & Wellness (334-380-5920) for more info. Central Alabama Contra Dancers Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and entire families are welcome. All levels of experience - including no experience. Dancing is on 1st and 3rd Fridays from 7-9 p.m. at the MASDA building, 2200 Popular St. For more info, visit www.contralines.com or email info@contralines.com. 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. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com.
Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/ person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799 or visit http://www. troy.edu/planetarium/.
Harriott II Riverboat Cruises Seasonal. Typical hours are 6:30-9 p.m. Live entertainment, cash bar and concessions available. For more info and available dates, visit www.funinmontgomery.com, call (334) 625-2100 or visit the Riverwalk Box Office at 200 Coosa Street.
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.
Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum 468 South Perry Street. Learn how 21 young people helped change our nation’s history using nonviolent protest. Black and white, male and female, none of them were older than 21. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, noon -4 p.m. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or call (334) 242-3184.
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!
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.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
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 or vist www.landmarksfoundation.com/.
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also enjoy watching movies. For more info, call (334) 2247811 or e-mail brandonperdue12@gmail.com. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street. 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. For more info, call 241-8615 or visit www. troy.edu/rosaparks/. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are April 13 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info. YMCA 7 to 11 Club Calling all children ages 7 to 11 for this fun, free event. While Mom and Dad are working out, join us for games, arts & crafts, service projects and more. Earn special beads for participation and try to break records for superior achievements. Monthly special events will be hosted as well. Check with your YMCA center or visit ymcamontgomery.org for more details.
Classes
Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Caring For Your Newborn This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Partners are encouraged to attend. $20 fee per couple. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class
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Calendar/Support Groups discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week evening series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, Caesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and newborn characteristics are included. A maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. This class is $60 per couple. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. iA 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp Fast-paced Saturday class including the same information offered in our weekly series in a compressed format. Maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. Fee is $60 per couple and includes 2 box lunches. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.
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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 info or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. Infant Safety/CPR Class Includes 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, but this is not a certification class. $10 fee per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.
Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www. Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Includes 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. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. $20 per couple. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Second Saturday of each month, 10 a.m.-noon. NICU Conference Room, Baptist Medical Center South. This class is free to the community. Moms in their second trimester are welcome. Those that qualify will receive incentives. No children please. This is a learning environment. Call (334) 286-2829 to register. Sibling Preparation Class 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. Slow Flow Yoga Classes are held at Old Alabama Town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to Molton South Building. Enter through the Rose House, located on Columbus St. between N. Hull and Decatur. Parking is available along Decatur and N. Hull. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days). Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com.
April2016 access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more info, or to volunteer, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Baptist Hospice Volunteers There are many 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 to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Baptist 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. 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 info, call (334) 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and (334) 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Hospital Animal Therapy Program 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.
Jackson Hospital Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital information desk 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. Call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson. org/patients_volunteers.html.
Services
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.
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. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has
River Region Association of Doulas Doulas Traci Weafer, Rebekah Hawkins and Christina Clark provide prenatal counseling, labor and postpartum doula services, breastfeeding education, events and support groups. Contact rradoulas@gmail.com or visit rradoulas. weebly.com or https://www.facebook.com/RRADoulas/.
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Calendar/Support Groups Support Groups Adoption Support
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call Monica Russell 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 htaylor@childrensaid.org. Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Audrey Derevenko at (205) 943-5343 or e-mail adereven@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 Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. 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 1-800-ACS-2345 for more info. 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. 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 cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000. 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 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.
Divorce Support
Boundaries in Dating meets Tuesdays at Frazer Memorial UMC through March 29. Between singleness and marriage lies the journey of dating. Learn healthy boundaries, improve your dating relationships, and gain lifelong
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
insights. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for additional information.
families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721.
DivorceCare meets Tuesdays through March 29 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Join us for support and guidance as you work through the issues, pain and pressures surrounding divorce. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for additional information.
“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. This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW.
DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 6121086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.
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 at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info. “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 ages 7-11 who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. 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. 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
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Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 2728622 for more info. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. GriefShare, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group.
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
Illness Support
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 272-8622. The Renaissance Spirit Group (an adult day group for Alzheimer’s patients in their early to middle stages) meets each Thursday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Registration is required. For more info, contact Nancy McLain at (334) 233-2139. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays
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Calendar/Support Groups 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. Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. Meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. You will experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” is led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.
related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 2900646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org.
Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information.
Parent Support
Depression/Bipolar Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 272-8622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com. Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 201-9638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. 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 (Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (2712280) for details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 3249568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. 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
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 info, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.
Circle of Moms Club Meets April 4 & 18, and May 2, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at UAB School of Medicine Basement Auditorium, adjacent to Baptist Medical Center South. Bring your baby, your questions, and hang out with other moms and moms-to-be. A lactation nurse will be at each meeting to offer expert help. A baby scale will also be available to monitor the weight of your baby. Light lunch provided, and door prizes! For more info, call (334) 286-2829 or e-mail llrambo@baptistfirst.org. D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@ llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc. org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:3011:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www. montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? 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. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Redland Baptist Church in Wetumpka. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. during the school year. We also have scheduled play dates
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April2016 and mom’s nights out. Moms get together to share food, laugh, and hear inspiring speakers. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. For more info, call (334) 567-8649 or visit www.mops.org/redlandmops.
Pregnancy Loss/Infertility
Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.
Single Parents Support
Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.
Special Needs Support
Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2016 pageant date TBA. Visit www. alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo. com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net.
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Calendar/Support Groups 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, e-mail LyraStephens@yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate, Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more info, e-mail Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.
Teens/Families Support
Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE program through Family Guidance Center of Alabama and a partnership with the Alabama Healthy Marriage and Relationship Initiative (AHMREI). LIFT provides relationship and marriage education and real-world skills through fun, distinctive workshops, information & referral services, ongoing support, and the LIFT library. Singles, non-married parents, stepfamilies, premarital couples, and married couples can all enjoy the benefits of LIFT workshops: ELEVATE blends 7 practical skills with an understanding of the physiology of human interaction (the heart-brain-behavior connection). Couples can get skills to help manage stress and reduce conflict. Learn how to relax, get to know each other more deeply, and make your relationship something you look forward to every day! Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter. org, or www.familyguidancecenter.org today! In Relationship Smarts (RS+), participants learn what true love really is, the role of “brain chemicals,” how to build healthy relationships, how to handle breakups, the “red flags” to domestic violence, relationship skills, and so much more. Written for 9th through 12th graders, RS+ is a solid, basic curriculum for adults too. Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter.org today! Date Nights! is a program for couples that are in committed relationships. Using the Basic Training curriculum, participants get the unique opportunity to enjoy a date together at a local restaurant- ON US! Topics include benefits of a healthy marriage, communication, surrender, problem-solving as a team, and intimacy. Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter.org, or www. familyguidancecenter.org today! How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette) is a great program for singles and daters. Participants learn the technical definition of a “jerk” and how to spot one, how to build a healthy relationship, and the five things to know in order to be able to predict what someone would be like in marriage. Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@ familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter. org today! For Couples Only is a must-have for any couple in any stage of their relationship. Using the Mastering the Mysteries of Love curriculum, couples go through intensive training in communication, conflict management, and problem-solving. Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@ familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter. org today! Smart Steps for Stepfamilies was created for couples where at least one partner is not the biological parent of at least one child in the family. This curriculum is useful for all stepfamily couples regardless of whether the couple is married. A children’s component is often available. Contact Tonya Rogers at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter. org, or www.familyguidancecenter.org today! 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.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
This Month Friday, April 1
Friday Night Hoops -- Also April 15 Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ ymcamontgomery.org. Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also April 15, 29, May 6 & 13 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/first child; $15 per sibling. For ages 5-12. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walk-ins accepted until maximum number is reached. Visit www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com for more info. Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museum Spring Spectacular -- All month Wetumpka. Reproductions of famous statuary from Greek and Roman times, and many flowers you do not usually see in the Deep South. Perennials include delphinium and digitalis, with such familiar annuals as tulips, Japanese cherries and azaleas loaded with blossoms. Open Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, noon-5 p.m. For more info, visit www.jasminehill.org.
Saturday, April 2
Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures,cesarean birth. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Preregistration is required. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org. All TIEd Up Project for Young Men 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Auditorium at the Montgomery Campus of UAB School of Medicine, 2119 East South Blvd, Montgomery. Series of workshops that teaches young men how to dress for success, and make responsible choices that will prepare them for the real world. FREE for young men ages 13-17. Registration is required and includes lunch, neck tie and a workshop bag. Register at www.alltiedupproject. org/. Camp Celebration Pete Peterson Lodge, 2635 Gunter Park Drive East, Montgomery. Presented by Baptist Hospice, this is a day just for children and teens, ages 5-16, that have experienced a death in their life. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and camp begins at 9 a.m. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. prior to the conclusion of camp; parents and guardians are invited. Lunch is provided and each participant will receive a Camp Celebration T-shirt. Free. For more info, contact Mona McDermott, Bereavement Coordinator, (334) 395-5000. 12th Annual Autism Crawfish Boil Rock Bottom American Pub, noon-5 p.m. Come enjoy 4,000 pounds of all-you-can-eat crawfish with all the sides, beverages, kids meals, live music and TONS of fun...all for a great cause...the Speech Therapy services and Autism Diagnostic Clinic at Easter Seals Central Alabama! Sponsorship opportunities available. Tickets: $35 General Admission; $25 Early Bug Admission; $50 VIP; $10 for children ages 3-10. Find us on Facebook. Cotton Lakes Community-wide Yard Sale 7 a.m.-noon. Located near Wetumpka High School off Chapel Road and Coosa River Pkwy (Hwy 14), Cotton Lakes
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April2016 homeowners hold two annual yard sales. There is always a wide variety of items, such as home decor, kitchenware, furniture, linens, toys, clothing for all ages, and much more. Be sure to visit both the East and West sides of Cotton Lakes through their separate entrances. Living History Program at Fort Toulouse - Fort Jackson Featuring 1814 Militia All events are $2/adult & $1/child unless otherwise noted. Call (334) 567-3002 for more information. Eastdale Mall Spring Fashion Show 2 p.m. The annual show features the hottest spring fashions for adults, teens, preteens and children. Adult scenes will highlight the latest in corporate and casual wear modeled by local celebrities, including media personalities and community leaders. The Eastdale Mall Teen Team will perform choreographed dance routines as they model the season’s most statement-making styles. For more info, call (334) 277-7380 or visit www.eastdale-mall.com. Old Cahawba’s Civil War Walking Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, Orrville (near Selma). This walking tour will visit Castle Morgan, the Union Army POW camp at Old Cahawba, and explore the plight of these unfortunate soldiers as well as the hardships of the town’s Confederate residents who suffered while their husbands, fathers and sons were off to war, many never to return. Welcome Center address: 9518 Cahaba Road, Orrville. Fee: $8 per person. For more info, contact Linda at cahawba@bellsouth.net or call (334) 872-8058. Civil Rights Walking Tours -- Every Saturday and Sunday 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. start times. Tours start from The Village Gallery. Come explore Montgomery’s history walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era. Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under - $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling (334) 595-9243. Downtown Montgomery Walking Tour -Each Saturday in April 10-11 a.m. Tours begin at the Montgomery Area Visitor Center. For more information, call (334) 262-0013 or visit alabama.travel/trails/april-walking-tours. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Alabama Nature Center Weekends -Every Saturday Guests are encouraged to arrive by 10 a.m. to enjoy the first of the day’s activities. Take a look around the the Discovery Hall, enjoy the movie specials in the theater, and explore the trails. Vending machines will provide snacks/ drinks. Gift shop will be open. Visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call 1-800-822-9453.
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Old Alabama Town Spring-Along 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus St. Included with regular admission. A special OAT Revue will feature Karren Pell, the OAT Revue Crue and many special guests, including American Idol finalist Jess Meuse, and ASF’s Greta Lambert! It’s a Spring Fling Thing that will showcase a variety of guests and talents including singing, songwriting and storytelling! For more info, call (334) 3223510 or e-mail karrenpell@charter.net. 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. Today’s project is “build a butterfly house.” After the butterfly house is built, your child can decorate their project with paint. 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.
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Calendar/Support Groups Prattville’s Fountain City Arts Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at Pratt Park in downtown Prattville. This fine arts festival features an Artist Village with a variety of artists and fine crafters exhibiting hand-crafted and customdesigned items from fine art paintings to wood carvings, photography, clay sculpture, silk painting, handmade soap, and many more. Entertainment by Prattville Pops, Community Chorus and the Way Off Broadway Theatre, as well as other local and regional entertainers. Call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov/. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also April 9 & 16 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies Included. Ages 3 and up. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. April 2 is paper kite; April 9 is butterfly clip canvas and April 16 is paper butterfly windsock. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/classesand-events/.
Sunday, April 3
Redland Education Committee Meeting 3 p.m. Carter Hall in Mulder Memorial UMC, located at 3454 Firetower Road. Topics of discussion will include the Elmore County Board of Education Superintendent’s race, RES Principal Dan Aude’s impending retirement and current school board outlooks. For more info, e-mail redlandschools@gmail.com.
Life is a Cabaret: A Kander & Ebb Revue at Cloverdale Playhouse Theater -- Also April 4 7:30 p.m. From the great composer and lyricist team behind Cabaret, Chicago, Fosse, The Act and Woman of the Year, to name a few, we present an evening of memorable and award-winning songs. These performances raise scholarship funds for the Playhouse School and for the Alabama Institute for Education in the Arts. Directed by Randy Foster. For tickets, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org or call (334) 262-1530. Special Needs Skate -- Also April 17 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.
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Cloverdale-Idlewild Spring Concert Series -- Also April 10, 17, 24, May 8, 15 & 22 4-7 p.m. Cloverdale Bottom Park, intersection of Cloverdale Road and Ponce de Leon Avenue, Montgomery. ADMISSION IS FREE! Bring your chairs or blankets, coolers, snacks. Plan to sit under the beautiful oak trees in the park setting and enjoy the music. Leashed dogs are also welcome, so bring your furry babies as well. April 3 Blackbird Pickers, April 10 Ed Pickett, April 17 Ziggy and April 24 Gypsy Cornbread. Find us on Facebook.
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First Sundays at One -- Also May 1 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the traveling exhibitions as well as the Museum’s Permanent Collection in these FREE docent-led tours the FIRST Sunday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
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Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided.
Thursday, April 7
Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents She Loves Me Through April 23 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $26.50 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $21.50. Reservations must be paid in advance. To make reservations or for more information, call 877-840-0457 or visit http://www. ticketforce.com/.
Friday, April 8
Parents’ Night Out 6-10 p.m. Let the Grandview YMCA watch your child while you take the night to go to a movie, relax at home, go grocery shopping or have a date night. Ccost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members. For more info, contact Bill Myers at (334) 290-9622 or bmyers@ ymcamontgomery.org. Homeschool Day at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 9 a.m.-noon. Homeschool families are invited to sign up for “Math at the Museum.” Students will explore the use of geometry in works of art and the Museum itself and have the opportunity to create an original work of art based on the Fibonacci sequence. Pre-school age children will also have the chance to explore the galleries, make art, and visit ARTWORKS. Registration is required. Contact Brandy at edsecy@mmfa.org or (334) 240-4365. The event is free of charge. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also April 22 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 typically 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. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.
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Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream -- Through May 8 The path to true love never runs smoothly--especially when you’re in a magical forest haunted by fairies and mischievous spirits. One of Shakespeare’s most beloved romantic comedies. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
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using color, shape, and line. The Art of Baking is geared for three- to six-year-olds. The shows are by reservation only and are free. Please contact Jill at (334) 240-4359 for more information.
Tuesday, April 5
The Art of Baking Puppet Show -- Through April 7 Performances are at 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. all three days at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Children “visit” a bakery run by colorful animals from different parts of the world. Children learn that the bakery’s cakes are created
2016 YMCA Strides for Kids 5K Dash and Fun Run 8:30 a.m. (5K) and 9:45 a.m. (Fun Run). Registration ends March 25. Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex, 300 Brown Springs Road, Montgomery. Entry Fee: $30 for 5K, T-Shirt Provided; $15 for 1 Mile Fun Run. Awards: Top 3 Overall Male/Female & Top 3 Male/Female in each age group. For more info, contact Manny Sanchez at (334) 3969754 or msanchez@ymcamontgomery.org. Black Jacket Symphony Presents Pink Floyd’s ‘Wish You Were Here’ at MPAC 8 p.m. The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience by recreating classic albums in a live
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April2016 performance setting with a first class lighting and video production. A selected album is performed in its entirety by a group of hand-picked musicians specifically selected for each album. Tickets begin at $29. Visit www.mpaconline. org or call (334) 481-5100 for tickets. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Second Saturday of each month, 10 a.m.-noon. NICU Conference Room, Baptist Medical Center South. This class is free to the community. Moms in their second trimester are welcome. Those that qualify will receive incentives. No children please. This is a learning environment. Call (334) 286-2829 to register. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/eve nts/1374454692792666/?source=1. 12th Annual Alabama Flora & Fauna Arts Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. NaturePlex at the Alabama Nature Center, Millbrook. This artistic celebration of Alabama’s magnificent plants and wildlife will feature the original nature-themed works of Alabama artists in a variety of mediums and style, to include ready-to hang wildlife and floral paintings, drawings, photography, mixed media, wood, ceramics/ pottery, glass, metal sculpture and much more! For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com. Pike Road Arts Council Hosts Series of Oil Painting Classes for Ages 12 & Up -- Also May 7 & 28 9 a.m.-noon at Pike Road Founders Station (4902 Pike Road). Local artist Glenda Adams will teach attendees how to capture form, mix color, create depth, reflections and perspective in paintings, and much more. Each three-hour workshop only costs $40 and supplies will be provided for the first class. Reserve your space today by e-mailing patty@ pikeroad.us or by calling (334) 495-4108.
Second Saturdays -- Through August Every second Saturday April through August, you are invited to Riverfront Park for a day full of family-friendly fun! The fun includes live entertainment, interactive activities for kids, various food & drink vendors and adult libations at the SandBAR at the Silos. $1 Admission, 12 and under free. All proceeds benefit local charities. For more info, call (334) 6252100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com/.
Sunday, April 10
Montgomery Chorale presents: Mozart Requiem First Baptist Church of Montgomery, 2-4 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for military & seniors, and $10 for students. Tickets may be purchased from Chorale members or online. For info, call (334) 265-3737 or visit www.montgomerychorale.org.
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Calendar/Support Groups Walking Tour of Huntingdon College 2 p.m. with Mary Ann Neeley. $10 tour admission, free to Landmarks Foundation members. Call 240-4500 for more information. If it looks like rain, check Facebook for news on possible cancellations. For more info, e-mail rrussell@ landmarksfoundation.com.
Tuesday, April 12
VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm downtown. For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth.org or visit www.facebook.com/VegOutMontgomery.
Theatre AUM Presents The Inspector General -Through April 24 By Nikolai Gogol. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. ThursdaySaturday and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $10 for the general public and $5 for seniors, non-AUM students and military. AUM faculty, staff and students admitted free of charge. No late seating. Children younger than age 6 not admitted. For reservations, contact Katie Pearson at 2443632 or kpearso2@aum.edu.
Friday, April 15
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Jethro Tull 8 p.m. After a lengthy career, Ian Anderson and Jethro Tull have released 30 studio and live albums, selling more than 60 million copies since the band first performed at London’s famous Marquee Club in February 1968. Tickets begin at $48. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100 for tickets.
Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Home Opener Start time 7:05 p.m. Each fan receives a voucher for one free hot dog. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.
Discover The Dinosaurs at Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center -- Through April 17 Unique, hands-on exhibit, consisting of moving and replica dinosaurs that you can actually touch! Beyond the exhibit, additional activities are available for kids of all ages including riding a dinosaur, themed inflatables, a dino dig, and gem and fossil panning. Bring the entire family. Tickets for adults $19; child (ages 2-12) $23; and seniors $16. Military discount with valid military ID at the event. For more info, visit www. DiscoverTheDinosaurs.com.
Wednesday, April 13
Saturday, April 16
Capri Theatre Re-opens with The Maltese Falcon 7:30 p.m. This is a soft reopening of the theatre, because work will still be progressing at the Capri during the daytime. There are plenty of things still to be done, and you will be able to see the progress week-by-week. Eventually, we will close again for another few weeks to do the electrical hookups, plumbing changes and final touches. Then, our grand re-opening. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org/.
Thursday, April 14
Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/. Capitol Sounds Concert Band Annual Spring Concert 7 p.m. at Frazer United Methodist Church, Wesley Hall in Montgomery. The event is free and open to the public, but donations are gladly accepted and will go toward the Young Artist Solo Competition, which annually awards the top two local undergraduate college students that compete in instrumental music.For more info, visit www. capitolsounds.org or call (334) 324-8661. Decision America Tour with Franklin Graham Noon-1 p.m. Join Franklin Graham on the Alabama State Capitol Front Steps. He is traveling to all 50 states in 2016 to hold prayer rallies, to preach the Gospel, and to challenge believers to take a stand and take action. He’ll be urging Christians to vote, to live out their faith in every part of their lives, and to pray for our nation. For more info, visit decisionamericatour.com/tour/alabama/. Prattville Community Chorus Spring Dinner Concert -- Also April 15 6:30 dinner; 7 p.m. concert. Doster Center in Prattville. Hollywood movie theme spanning several decades. Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased at www.prattvilleal. gov/, at the Special Events Office at 203 West 4th Street or by calling (334) 595-0854. Seating is limited and advance reservations are required.
Montgomery Parents I April 2016
April2016 local businesses, and vacation home rentals. Proceeds will benefit mission projects in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Alabama Rural Ministry in Tuskegee, Georgia Washington Middle School in Montgomery, and many other local ministries. For more info or to see a preview of items, visit www. sjlifeauction.com. Living History Program at Fort Toulouse - Fort Jackson Featuring French & Indian War Encampment -- Also April 17 All events are $4/adult & $2/child unless otherwise noted. Call (334) 567-3002 for more information.
Sunday, April 17
Prattville Pops Spring Concert 2-3:30 p.m. Pratt Park Amphitheatre. Free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a Sunday afternoon concert with your family and friends. For more info, call (334) 595-0854. or visit www.prattvilleal.gov/.
Tuesday, April 19
Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Montgomery Zoo Earth Day Safari -- Also April 20 9 a.m.-2 p.m. both days. Designed with school groups in mind, the Zoo’s Earth Day Safari is a fun and educational
EAT South Organic Spring Workshops 9-11 a.m. EAT South Downtown Farm, 425 Molton Street, Montgomery. Today’s topic is “Composting Class.” Participants should be prepared to be outside. Water, clothes that can get dirty, and sunscreen are essentials. Recommended donation: $10. To find out more and reserve your spot, call (334) 422-9331 or e-mail info@eatsouth.org. Also find us on Facebook. Space is limited. Pike Road Community Yard Sale 7 a.m.-noon. Pike Road Town Hall, 9575 Vaughn Road. Booth reservations available at Pike Road Town Hall and are $25 each. Booth spaces are 9’x16’ (one standard parking space). Tables, tents or power will not be provided. If you plan to use a 10x10 tent, you will be required to purchase TWO spaces. Deadline to reserve your booth is 5 p.m. April 14, at Pike Road Town Hall. For more info, e-mail info@pikeroad.us or call (334) 272-9883. Joy to Life - Walk of Life 8:30-11 a.m. Run or walk to raise awareness and support for the fight against breast cancer. Starting line on Tallapoosa Street near Dreamland BBQ. Once you cross the finish line on Commerce Street by the Alley Station, make your way through the tunnel to Montgomery’s Riverfront Park. Inside the park, you’ll enjoy food, drinks, the Mighty Kids Dash, vendors, artists, music and lots more. This is a family-friendly event. For more info, call (334) 284-5433 or visit joytolifefoundation.org/events/walk-of-life/. 4th Annual Wetumpka Craterfest 2-7 p.m. at Gold Star Park in downtown Wetumpka. Music, arts and crafts, concessions, free Kidzone, crater tours, artwork and lectures. Sponsored by Wind Creek Wetumpka Hotel & Casino, City of Wetumpka, and the Wetumpka Crater Commission. For more info, visit www.wetumpkachamber.com/Craterfest.html. American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreting Program Potluck Lunch Noon-3 p.m. - Easter Seals Central Alabama - FREE. Please bring a dish to share. All signing levels and nonsigners are welcome! For more info, contact Pamela at pwhitson@eastersealsca.org or on video phone (VP) at (334) 513-1458 or Michelle at mkennedy@easterseaslca. org or at (334) 387-3266. Saint James United Methodist Holds Benefit Auction 4-6 p.m. Visitors may preview items April 15, from 5-7 p.m. There is no cost for admission. Items featured include antique furniture from Pickwick Antiques, original artwork, jewelry, salon and boutique certificates, gift cards from
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Wednesday, April 20
Wonderfully Made Seminars for Women Noon-1 p.m. MCI Auditorium on the Campus of Baptist South. This month we will welcome the chaplain from the Montgomery Cancer Center, Rebecca Goff, to speak about “Finding Meaning in Each Stage of Life: Taking Your Spiritual Life to a New Level.” Lunch is provided. Space is limited. Please register if you plan to attend by calling (334) 273-4444.
Thursday, April 21
Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “Adventures in Alabama’s Mobile-Tensaw Delta,” presented by Watt Key. Call 353-4726 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov. The Friends of the Pike Road Branch Library Present Frye Gaillard and Anne E. DeChant 10 a.m. at the Pike Road Branch Library, 9585 Vaughn Road. Gaillard is a songwriter and author; DeChant is a Nashville recording artist. They will discuss and perform songs from The Quilt: And the Poetry of Alabama Music.
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Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Having Our Say The Delany Sisters’ First 100 Years -- Thru May 1 A play written by Emily Mann, adapted from the book by Sarah L. and A. Elizabeth Delany with Amy Hill Hearth; directed by Georgette Norman. 103-year-old Sadie Delany and 101-year-old Bessie Delany take us on a remarkable journey through the last hundred years of our nation’s history, recounting events and anecdotes drawn from their rich family history and careers as pioneering African-American professionals. For tickets or more info, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Millbrook Community Players Present The Dixie Swim Club -- Through May 1 Most performances at 7:30 p.m.; matinees at 2 p.m. April 24 and May 1. Directed By Stephanie McGuire; written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope & Jamie Wooten. Five Southern women, whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team, set aside a long weekend every August to recharge those relationships. Tickets are $12 in advance; $14 at the door. Visit www.millbrooktheater.com or call (334) 782-7317 for tickets.
Friday, April 22
PCA Benefit Event : Dinner, Auction and Rush of Fools Concert Prattville Christian Academy is partnering with the popular Christian band, Rush of Fools ,to hold a benefit concert for the school. The concert, along with a dinner and auction, will be held at Vaughn Forest Church in Montgomery. The dinner and auction will begin at 6 p.m. and the concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase for only $20. To purchase, visit 4pca.org.
Saturday, April 23
donated to two local Montgomery organizations: Child Protect Children’s Advocacy Center and Children’s Center Adult Program. Registration fee $25. Registration online at active.com. 6th Annual Little Miss River Region Pageant St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall in Prattville. The pageant is open to females, age 12 month to 19 years, with six age categories. All contestants will compete in casual wear and formal wear for this pageant. This is a semi-natural pageant where age-appropriate makeup and attire are stressed. The registration fee is $50. Applications are due by April 15. For more info, visit www.SterlingMiss. org or call (334) 313-5444. 2016 Run for Autism 7-10 a.m. Race begins near CCAD office building in Executive Park, 2361 Fairlane Drive, Montgomery. Registration fees are: 5K Run $25; Mile Fun Run/Walk $10; Sleeping In (just a T-shirt) $25. Registration will be held on the morning of the race starting at 7 a.m. The 5K Race will begin at 8 and the Fun Run/Walk will begin at 9 a.m. For more info, call (334) 262-5744 or visit www.active.com. Emerald Mountain Annual Neighborhood-Wide Spring Yard Sale 7-11 a.m. Large Wetumpka neighborhood. Homes all around the area will host their own yard sales. Visit www.facebook.com/events/1309004712448948/.
Sunday, April 24
Santuck Baptist Church Community Celebration 4-7 p.m. Come and join us for a night of food, fun and fellowship! There will be plenty of activities for the whole family, including inflatables for the kids and a BBQ Cookoff. We hope you can join us! For more info, call Chad at (334) 558-6400 or visit http://santuckbaptist.org/.
Alabama Book Festival: Year of Alabama Makers Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus Streer. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission. With lots of authors, vendors and exhibitors, this free public event is the state’s premier literary event. A fun activity area for children makes this a day of fun for the entire family! Authors include Rick Bragg, Steve Flowers, Homer Hickam, Rheta Grimsley Johnson and Julian McPhillips. For more info, visit http:// alabamabookfestival.org or call 1-888-240-1850.
Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. All ages will enjoy these fun, FREE monthly events combining Jazz Jams (listening to incredible local jazz musicians) and exploring art together with hands-on art making, inspired by exhibitions in the Museum. All materials are provided. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333.
Montgomery Biscuits Autograph Day Start time 6:35 p.m. Sponsored by Montgomery Advertiser, fans will have the opportunity to collect autographs of players and coaches on the field prior to the game. Fans will also receive a 2016 team poster. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.
Montgomery Biscuits Bark in the Park/Kids Day Start time 2:05 p.m. Take your furry friend to the ballgame! All dogs get in free! Every Sunday afternoon game, kids will have the chance to play catch on the field prior to the game and run the bases after the game! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.
Babypalooza Expo 2016 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Garrett Coliseum. Exhibitors from health, childcare and maternity goods and services will be present at this free event. The expo will also feature health information from Baptist Health facilities, including class offerings and newborn photography services. For more info, visit http://babypaloozatour.com or call (334) 2734506. Capital City Master Gardener Annual Spring Plant Sale 7 a.m.-noon. Frazer United Methodist Church, corner of 6700 Atlanta Highway/Burbank in Montgomery. Plants for sale include: heirloom plants, vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials, ground covers, trees, shrubs, succulents, shade plants and house plants. Bring the kids for fun children’s gardening activities. Free gardening demonstrations will also be held during the sale. For more info, visit capcitymga.org. Occupational Therapy Awareness 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run, Walk, or Roll Alabama State University, Montgomery. Check-in begins at 8 a.m; 5K race begins at 9:30 a.m.; and 1 mile fun run, walk, or roll begins at 10 a.m. Prior to and following the race, the ASU occupational therapy students will host a health fair with various booths related to occupational therapy. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be
April2016 to annex them. Tickets may be obtained by calling (334) 738-8687 or visiting www.reddoortheatre.org. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Driving Miss Daisy -- Through May 15 What begins as a hostile clashing of wills between a stubborn Jewish matriarch and a proud black man evolves into a decades-long friendship as the two navigate Civil Rights-era Atlanta. With humor and heartfelt emotion, Alfred Uhry’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play poignantly explores the transformative power of true friendship. Visit www.asf. net or call 271-5353. The Power of Positive Parenting Workshop Series -- Ends May 19 Four-week session meets weekly from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Vaughn Park Church of Christ. Skills covered include proactive parenting, setting realistic expectations, communicating expectations, effectively using timeout, parenting teenagers, what to ignore, what to address, using praise to manage behavior and much more! $40. Preregistration required. Call Varina at (334) 387-3256 or e-mail vmead@eastersealsca.org.
Friday, April 29
The River Region Healthy Living Expo 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Faulkner University Multiplex, 5345 Atlanta Hwy. With the donation of one canned food item, health fair attendees will receive free admission to more than 50 health and wellness vendors. Alabama News Network will partner with the Montgomery Area Food Bank to help fight hunger in the River Region. For more info, call (334) 270-9252. All DOLLed Up Project for Young Women 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Auditorium at the Montgomery Campus of UAB School of Medicine, 2119 East South Blvd, Montgomery. Series of workshops that teaches young women how to dress for success, and make responsible choices that will prepare them for the real world. FREE for young women ages 13-17. Registration is required and includes lunch, scarf and a workshop bag. Register at www. alldolledupproject.org/. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents White Lightning -- Also April 30; May 7 Can a young man get off the wrong track and on to the right one before the revenuers catch up with him? A story about moonshine, racing and adventure that takes a snapshot of the1940s South and the rough and tumble origins of NASCAR. A new Southern play by Gee’s Bend playwright Elyzabeth Gregory Wilder. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
Thursday, April 28
Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of Montgomery invites all women of the River Region to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. Join us for a fun social and door prizes. Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, April 25, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com. 9th Annual Chairs For Children 5:30-7:30 p.m. Union Station, 300 Water Street. Join Child Protect for their largest and most important event of the year! Local artists paint children’s chairs and they are auctioned off in a live and silent auction. Tickets are $40 per person and $70 per couple. Call (334) 262-1220 or visit www.facebook.com/events/557098421122136/. Red Door Theatre Presents Doublewide, Texas Through May 1 Downtown Union Springs. April 28-30 performances at 7:30 p.m.; May 1 performance at 2:30 p.m. Written by by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, & James Wooten; directed by Kim Mason. In this hilarious, fast-paced comedy, the inhabitants of one of the smallest trailer parks in Texas—four doublewides and a shed—are thrown for a loop when they realize the nearby town of Tugaloo is determined
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Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Comedy of Errors -- Also April 30; May 7 Twenty years after being separated in a shipwreck as babies, two pairs of identical twins find themselves in a seaport town with a reputation for sorcery and magic. Mistaken for each other, they are constantly bewildered by bizarre encounters, cross-purpose conversations and baffling misunderstandings. It all ends in riotous chaos! Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
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Calendar/Support Groups Saturday, April 30
Elmore County Historical Society Walking Cemetery Tour 5-7 p.m. The tour will once again feature Wetumpka residents portraying many of Elmore County’s settlers, builders and most noted citizens such as John Kelly Fitzpatrick, Senator William Thomas, Sgt. George F. Sedberry and many others. Tickets are just $5 and are available at the Elmore County Museum and Wetumpka Library. For info, call (334) 567-5097 or elmorecountymuseum@gmail.com. Dino Dig at Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-noon. Go on an archaeological dig and discover bones from the past. Geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old. Advanced reservations are required. Event fee: $25 per child (ages 4-12 years old), $18 for Montgomery Zoo members. Accompanying adults (13 years old and older): $15, Montgomery Zoo members: FREE. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com. Mustaches for Kids Spring Cornhole Tournament 1-5 p.m. SandBAR, 355 Coosa St. Stop by the Trainshed to check out some awesome locally made products at Southern Makers, then head down to SandBAR to support this benefit for Child Protect. $50 per couple entre fee; $25 per individual. Visit m4kmontgomery.squarespace.com/. Southern Makers -- Also May 1 Noon-5 p.m. at the Union Station Trainshed. Southern Makers purpose is to bring together highly curated, handpicked top talent - artists, chefs, breweries, craftsmen, and designers - to one central place, making it easy for adventurers to get a sampling of Alabama’s best. For more info, visit southernmakers.com/.
Thursday, May 5
Taste of the Gardens 2016 5-8 p.m. Presented by Southern Homes & Gardens (SH&G) and the American Red Cross, this event includes a silent auction featuring works from local artists; tasting from
the River Region’s finest restaurants & caterers; wine and music with Henry Pugh. Event tickets are $25, and may be purchased at SH&G, Caffco Outlet or at the American Red Cross, Central Alabama. For more info, contact Kari at (334) 260-4016 or e-mail kari.hennagin2@redcross.org.
Friday, May 6
Flimp Chalk Art Competition at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also May 7 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday; 8-10 a.m. Saturday. Year after year participants fill the Museum’s parking lot with inspired works of art during the Flimp Chalk Art Competition. During the Flimp Festival, visitors enjoy the vivid chalk drawings on the asphalt gallery, and local celebrities judge the winners. Contact edsecy@mmfa.org for more information.
Saturday, May 7
19th Annual Frazer Flea Market for Missions 7 a.m.-1 p.m. in the parking lot across S. Burbank Dr. from Frazer. Call (334) 495-6368 now or e-mail singles@ frazerumc.org for more info. Living History Program at Fort Toulouse Fort Jackson Featuring 1814 Militia All events are $2/adult & $1/child unless otherwise noted. Call (334) 567-3002 for more information. Old Alabama Town Herb Day Festival 8 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Living Block of Old Alabama Town. Free to the public. There will be music, children’s activities and an open-air market. A variety of vendors will sell their garden-related wares including a huge selection of herbs and other plants, crafts, herbal teas, goat cheeses, and various and sundry yard art. Visit www.oathsblog.com. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents 3 Doors Down with The Glorious Sons 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $38. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100 for tickets.
April2016 Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Southern Voices 7:30 p.m. For great writers telling great stories in a great part of the country, look to the South. The Playhouse presents a new mix of readings and music celebrating a great American treasure. From Capote to Welty, the list is impressive and memorable. Tickets are $15. For tickets or more info, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. MMFA Presents Flimp Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Blount Cultural Park and the MMFA. Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for children. FREE to Museum Members and Active Duty Military and their families. This year the Museum continues its partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet High School to showcase the talents of the students in visual and performing arts. Other events include the DoDah pet parade, family treasure hunt, and children’s activities. For info, visit http://mmfa.org/visit/flimp-festival/.
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Agape’s Run for a Mom 5K and Fun Run 7-10 a.m., Vaughn Park Church of Christ. Honor a special woman when you run this Mother’s Day weekend, whether it’s the lady you call “mom” or a special lady you’ve always adored. Whoever it is, make sure to wear or carry something while you run to serve as a reminder of her. For info, call (334) 272-9466 or visit www.runforamom.org. Fido Fest 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Shoppes at EastChase near Dillard’s. Fido Fest 2016 will benefit the Montgomery Humane Society! It will include a wide array of vendors, doggy activities, great food from local food trucks, K9 splash zone, live music and much more! Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased on event brite. Bring your dog, kids, a chair and enjoy all of the fun! For more info, call (334) 279-6046 or visit Facebook. The Urban Slide -- Also May 8 10 a.m.-11 p.m. The Urban Slide is bringing 1,000 feet of slippery sliding to Montgomery. The slide will be set up downtown on Montgomery Street. Registration ranges from $10-$30. Visit www.theurbanslide.com/events/ montgomery-al/
Business Card Directory
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Bradford Health Services ROAD MAP TO ADOLESCENT RECOVERY
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MontgomeryParents “Parents in the Know, Know Montgomery Parents” The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
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Are Your Customers WOMEN? So Are Our READERS! We Offer SMART ADVERTISING! Call Today, 213-7940
Home Based Business Directory House Cleaning, Window Cleaning and Light Paint Jobs
Please call me for a quote on any of the above. I have previous experience in all areas, references, and am looking to work in the Prattville and Milbrook area. Please call Terri at (334) 365-2727.
Cupcake Castles Travel Company
Specializing in all things Disney! (Cruises, Disney World, Disney Land, Adventures by Disney, Universal and all inclusive resorts) My services are always FREE! Contact me today and let’s begin planning your MAGICAL vacation! Cell: 334-328-0820 or email: Dana@cupcakecastlestravel.com
Tele-Health Services
Horseback Riding Lessons
Dedicated, Result oriented, Resilience building. With 10 years of (Psychology) and Community Practice. My evidence-based approach to tele-health provide: Pro-social relationships, Self-efficacy and a Subjective state of (Mental) well being to Clients, Educational, Hospitals, Federal, State, and Local Government agencies.
Ages 4 and up! Advanced Certified instructor Safe horses and ponies Camps, after-school programs and more! Contact Anne Alan Jemison 334-663-2922 www.FairHavenFarmLLC.com
For rendered services under (Clinical Supervision) please contact: Genevieve Morris at genjiles@msn.com.
Piano Teacher
Saxon Lawn Service
Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome. 1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.
You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324.
Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors. Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.
TUTORING 28 years teaching experience Tutoring grades 1st-8th Call Alice Gwin at (334) 300-8350. Email dalice.gwin@gmail.com.
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BJ’s Cleaning service Move In, Move Out Residential & Commercial Construction Sites All with Quality and Reasonable Rates Call Betty Dennis, Cleaning Specialist at 334.303.2585 for a free estimate or email bjdennis46@yahoo.com.
Jackie’s Home Daycare
Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.
Provides lactation education and consulting, antepartum and postpartum doula services. For more information please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-531-0145.
Quality childcare and education in a fun, safe, Christian environment. Located in East Montgomery Years of experience Smoke and pet free/clean home Ages 6 weeks -10 years Call (334) 676-3136.
Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com
Cutie Patootie Creations
Let Cutie Patootie Creations take care of all your decoration needs. We do balloons, candy tables, diaper cakes, invitations, baby showers, birthday parties and so much more!
Naomi (334) 296-2055 or Facebook.com/ cutiepatootiecakecreations
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Tutus and Glitter Mobile Spa Parties
Let us create a Mini Day Spa in your living room. Our amazing spa & salon themed parties make every girl feel like a princess while giving them a chance to relax with friends or enter full diva mode! Call Candace (334) 676-0950 or TutusandGlitterSpaParties@yahoo.com.
ROOFTOP MINISTRIES
Concerned for someone in an alternative religion? Lora Brown can help. 25 years experience with pre-evangelism, evangelism and re-evangelism. Free consultations & referrals. I also teach groups. ROOFTOP_MINISTRIES@ HOTMAIL.COM; ROOFTOPMIN.ORG;
334-288-1346
Squeaky Clean
The Piano Man
No job too big or small. Clean/disinfect kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum, dust and floors. Over 13 years experience. Affordable pricing. 334.451.0052
Piano tunings, repair, and restoration. Active member of the Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. Call 569-9662 or visit www.pianoman.net/al
Southern Quality Lawns, LLC
Authentic Professional Consulting
“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
Tabitha Campbell, CEO Medical Billing Services, Bookkeeping, Professional Development Practice Management, Strategic Planning. Call 334.799.3862 or email authenticpconsulting@gmail.com
Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 9 years. Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183
BIRDMAN
“Doves in Flight” Funerals, Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthday Parties, and Family Reunions. Call Charles “Tee” Taylor at 334-220-2533.
The FREE AD GUY knows that every business needs a few lucky breaks before it can become successful. That’s why he is offering more FREE ads to Home Based Businesses. In return, the FREE AD GUY would appreciate it if you would tell a friend about Montgomery Parents Magazine. If you’ll just help him spread the word about Montgomery Parents Magazine he’ll keep working for you and your business. If you have already run a FREE ad you can send a request to repeat the ad or make changes. Please understand but we will not accept any phone requests. For new Home Based Business advertisers, just send your information to: FREE AD GUY, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123, or freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com. The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.
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AdvertiserDirectory We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.
Evangel Church VBS, 82
Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 18
Expedition Lanark-AL Nature Center, 49
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 83
First Presbyterian Kindergarten, P’ville, 77
Mrs. Sandy’s House, 79
First UMC, Montgomery, 45
My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 23
First UMC, Prattville, 60
New Park, 61
Adventure Sports II, 53
Fleming’s Martial Arts, 82
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 25
Alabama Christian Academy, 4, 81
Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten, 77
Patty Cakes International, Inc., 96
AL Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front & Back
Frazer Memorial UMC, 2
Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 37
Alabama Partnership with Children, 3
Go Karting Montgomery, 27
Professional Pediatrics, 12
Alabama School of Math & Science, 47
Grand Reserve at Pike Road, 37
Pump It Up Party, 79
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 39
Greengate School, 15
Aldersgate UMC Child Care, 73
Health Services, Inc., 60
ASKIN/Synergy House, 96
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 22
ASU Continuing Education Camp, 33
Hooper Academy, 55
AUM Early Childhood Center, 71
Huntingdon Basketball Camps, 19
Baptist Health, 65
Huntington Learning Center, 25
Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 26
Inflatables of Montgomery, 40
Bradford Health Services, 97
Interscapes, Inc., 11
Bricks 4 Kids, 96
KLynn Ice Skating School, 42
Central Alabama OIC, 68
Kingry Orthodontics, 26
Chapman Orthodontics, 28
Kumon, 57
Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 28
Learning Tree Child Care, 78
Churchill Academy, 20
Legacy Early Learning Center, 69
Cloverdale Preschool Academy, 73
Lori Mercer Photography, 59
Delta Sigma Theta, 14
Macon East Academy, 7
Dentistry for Children, 34
M.A.N.E., 27
Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 40
Mathnasium, 43
Trinity Presbyterian School, 13
Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 46
Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 74
Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 21
E & S Hobbies, 96
Montessori @ Mulberry, 17
Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 74
Easter Seals Central Alabama, 53
Montessori Academy, 75
Vaughn Road Preschool, 67
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 34
Montgomery Catholic Schools, 41
Vishnu Dental, 87
Evangel Christian Academy, 35
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 87
Wild Native Eco Camp, 14
Riverview Camp for Girls, 36 R.O.C.K., 63 Rockin’ Jump, 51 Rolling Video Games of AL, 59 Saint James School, 1 Saint James UMC, 30 Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 9 Shade Tree Riding Stables, 31 Smiles Galore Parties, 42 Spacewalker, The, 35 Spotless Cleaning Services, 8 Success Unlimited Academy, 29 Sylvan Learning Center, 19, 46 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 85 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 21 Tooth Buds, 48
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Batman v. Superman:
The Divergent
Dawn of Justice
Series: Allegiant
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: BLanguage: BAlcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action throughout, and some sensuality. If you recall the release of Man of Steel over two years ago, you’ll remember that Superman (Henry Cavill) arrived on Earth and brought a war with him. While the super-humans duked it out, planet Earth became the boxing ring and we were left with a huge mess to clean up. This next chapter opens with the citizens of Metropolis questioning if the former Kryptonian is really a hero or a formidable foe that will kill them all when he so pleases. Over in the adjacent city of Gotham, Bruce Wayne: aka Batman (Ben Affleck), is also viewing the debate. Through a series of incidents, he is pulled into believing the potential risk of Superman going rouge is a concern that needs to be dealt with. What he doesn’t know is that someone is purposefully manipulating his judgment. Superman’s old archenemy, Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg), plays the role of a fight promoter in a gladiator-style clash of might he is hoping will ultimately be to his benefit. If you come to this spectacle, be prepared to be in your seat for two and a half hours. Multiple scenes of dialogue are part of the build up to the ultimate confrontation that, frankly, feels like the concluding scene of virtually every other superhero movie. There’s also a distinct lack of “fun” in this film. Maybe I’m getting used to Disney’s handling of many of the Marvel characters, but these guys need to lighten up a little and remind audiences they’re supposed to be enjoying a fantasy -- not a serious plot that tries to be more relevant by injecting the “terrorist” word into the narrative. As usual, violence will be the greatest concern for parents debating the suitability of this title for younger crowds. Creating a dark storyline -- literally and figuratively -- the opening moments depict two characters being shot in the head. Stabbings, impalings and more shootings of secondary characters are seen throughout and some blood effects are shown. As well, one of our heroes takes a moment to engage in a sexual interlude with a female in a bathtub -no explicit nudity is shown. A few mild profanities are included too. There are good lessons here about judging others and investigating the source of gossip before believing everything you hear. Yet there are still reams of pretentious soliloquies in this very long battle of bats and tights -- too bad the scriptwriters didn’t take a page from The Incredibles so they could have avoided the dangers of monologuing.
What Parents need to know about Batman v. Superman...
Violence: Many scenes depict confrontations between characters using superhuman strength and technological advantages that cause injury, death and destruction. Some blood effects are included. Stabbings and impalings are portrayed. Many characters are gunned down; a few are shot at close range, although the bullet impact is not seen. Buildings are demolished by alien beings and we see people being crushed and injured. Some characters have a brand burned onto them and at one point we see a character about to brand another. Women are held captive and threatened by men. Blood drips from a self inflicted cut on a character’s hand. Sexual Content: A completely dressed man joins a woman in a bathtub and they begin kissing and embracing: the woman is obviously naked but we don’t see explicit nudity. Language: A single scatological curse is heard along with five religious terms (two are names of Christian deity used as expletives). Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters are seen drinking in social situations. Montgomery Parents I April 2016
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: CSexual Content: B Language: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated The Divergent Series: Allegiant PG-13 for intense violence and action, thematic elements, and some partial nudity. Our determined gang of Divergents continue their fight to fix Chicago, a dystopian mess of demolished buildings overrun by warring factions. (Make sure you take a look at the previous two movies or novels to catch up on the backstory.) They received a message in the previous episode that claimed the answers to their problems lay on the other side of the wall that surrounds their city. Now leader Tris (Shailene Woodley), along with her boyfriend and right-hand beefcake Four (Theo James), her brother Caleb (Ansel Elgort), the difficult-to-trust Peter (Miles Teller) and hard-core adventurer Christina (Zoe Kravitz) make a run for the barrier. In hot pursuit are soldiers following the commands of Evelyn (Naomi Watts) the crumbling metropolis’s new, self-appointed leader. The hurdle over the wall doesn’t go well and the green on the other side of the fence is less than lush. Running across a landscape that looks like Mars, with blood-like rain to match, the fugitives are eventually greeted by a platoon of futuristic warriors that envelop them in a net-like bubble and deliver them to an outpost reminiscent of George Jetson’s condo. After a decontamination shower (naked, of course, providing us with a lingering view of Woodley in silhouette) a devious looking dude named Matthew (Bill Skarsgard) fills them in on what’s happening. Put simply, 200 years ago mankind (that’s us) was messing around with DNA and the mutants they created eventually led to planetary destruction. Believing that human genes could heal themselves, if given enough time, someone agreed to use the survivors living in the ruins of Chicago as lab rats, to see if the damage could be repaired. The Divergents proved to be the cream of the crop and, no surprise, Tris is the creamiest. Her status as the only human to evolve from impure to pure, gets her a pass to ride the glass elevator to the penthouse suite where she meets David (Jeff Daniels), the guy who’s in charge of the experiment. Compared to the military style barracks everyone else is housed in, David’s luxurious living quarters are a not so subtle clue he’s not as nice as he first appears. Torn apart by issues of trust and dealing with mounting aggression from earlier confrontations, the characters in Allegiant stumble toward an awkward mid-novel intermission (yet another final book stretched into two movies -Ascendant is scheduled for release in June 2017). The battling factions are core to the story, which features weapons use, stabbings and hand-to-hand combat with blood effects, although the visuals stop short of becoming explicit. Fortunately, the script contains only a smattering of mild profanities.
What Parents need to know about Allegiant...
Violence: Violent depictions are pervasive in this movie, which features detailed hand-to-hand combat, gunfights and knife use. Also depicted are explosions, electrical shock, vehicle crashes and kidnapping. Characters are injured and killed (some blood is shown) during these confrontations. Characters are executed -- a gun is held to their head, the sound of a shot is heard, and their body is shown falling to the floor. Injections and poisonous gas are used to gain power over enemies. Children are kidnapped and their parents are sometimes killed. Characters mock and belittle others. Sexual Content: Characters embrace and kiss. A woman removes her clothing to shower: seen naked from shoulders up, and from the back in silhouette. Language: Infrequent uses of mild profanity and scatological slang.
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Montgomery Academy Scholarship Opportunities Montgomery Academy awards both merit and need-based scholarship opportunities to applicants whose accomplishments in the classroom are extraordinary. Our scholarship programs, as well as our academic record, set MA above its peers when it comes to attracting a remarkable and diverse student body.Â
A p p ly t o j o i n u s i n 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 admissions@montgomeryacademy.org
334.272.8210 montgomeryacademy.org
Ask about financial aid options that make an MA education a possibility. The Academy admits students of every color, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, or other legally protected status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.