Montgomery Parents April 2013 by KeepSharing

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Contents April 2013

Volume 18 Number 4

Features 58

Grow With It!

Quality Child Care

2013 Child Care Guide

Savannahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 6 Best for Families

Find advice on how to thrive with each unique stage of motherhood, from infant to empty nest.

When making the all important decision of choosing a child care facility, these tips will help you know what to look for.

Columns

6 From One Parent to Another DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

12 Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Beware of Blood Suckers Outside Spring is here and our children are playing outside in grass and wooded areas not realizing that there are hungry blood thirsty predators waiting for the opportunity to dine on their blood! Ticks thrive in many areas of the world and especially in the Southeast. They find their prey by detecting breath and body scents, body heat, moisture, and vibrations. They strategically place themselves in tall grass or on low lying tree or bush branches along well used paths. When a host brushes by, the tick climbs aboard. Some ticks will attach quickly, but others will travel to other parts of the body such as scalp, underarm, groin, belly button or behind the ear. Then a tick finds a feeding spot, it grasps the skin, punctures the surface, inserts it’s feeding tube, and secretes a cement-like substance that keeps it firmly attached during the meal. The tick also secretes small amounts of saliva with anesthetic properties so that the host cannot feel that the tick has attached himself. If the host has a blood borne infection the tick will ingest the pathogen with the blood. While feeding, small amounts of the tick’s saliva may enter the host animal. If the tick contains disease producing organisms, they may be transmitted to the host. After feeding for several days

most ticks drop off and prepare for their next life stage. If you find a tick attached to your child’s skin there is no need to panic. The steps for tick removal is as follows: 1) Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible 2) Pull upward with steady pressure without jerking or twisting 3) If any mouth parts break off remove them with tweezers 4) After removal, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with alcohol, iodine scrub or antibacterial soap and water and apply a topical antibiotic such as neo-sporen. Watch for signs of redness or infection. While many people are concerned about complications from tick bites, the chance of acquiring a tick borne infectious disease illness is low, even if the tick has attached, fed, and is actually carrying an infectious agent. If you have been bitten by a tick and develop fever, chills, headache, body aches, joint pain or a rash within a few days to two weeks after a tick bite, you should see your doctor immediately for an evaluation. The most common tick borne diseases in this

area are Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF), Southern Tick Associated Rash Illness (STARI), Ehrlichiosis, Tularemia, and Lyme disease. Tick bites may be prevented in several ways: • Avoid direct contact with ticks by staying clear of wooded and bushy areas and walk in the center of trails • Use repellents that contain Deet for exposed skin use and permethrin for use on clothing • Find and remove ticks from your body after coming indoors as soon as possible • Examine all pets, gear, coats and day packs for ticks. Remember that if bitten by a tick and flu like symptoms or rash occur seek medical care immediately. Dr. Drennen earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1975 and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine in Loveland, Colorado. He then practiced in Ozark, Alabama before coming to Professional Pediatrics in 1998. He and his wife Rebecca have two sons. The entire family enjoys downhill skiing and beach activities.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Students on a QUEST

An education is really just an individual’s quest for knowledge. It is a lifelong search to quench a thirst to learn. For Montgomery Public Schools’ students in traditional elementary schools, there is a program for students that are identified as gifted that is aptly named QUEST. One of the many wonderful and unique programs available to MPS students, QUEST provides accelerated academics to gifted students in grades three through five in our traditional schools. Every traditional elementary school participates with over 750 students in the program this year. In most cases these students meet for three hours every week with other gifted

students in their home school. For a few schools, QUEST students are taken to another near-by school on a school bus for their classes. One of the QUEST academic focuses for this school year is on the brain. To promote the program, last month over 1,500 parents, students and community members participated in BrainQUEST at Eastdale Mall. The event gave participants a look at the wonders of our brains and a chance to play a variety of brain games. Miniature stress balls in the form of a “brain” were given to students who completed every station. There were also videos, and information on how to keep our brains healthy. It was a wonderful event. QUEST is just one example of the variety of programs Montgomery Public School students have to help prepare them for life. Identified gifted students in traditional middle schools receive services through Pre-AP and honors classes and

electives. Identified gifted students in traditional high schools receive services through AP and honors classes and electives. Special programs in reading, the arts, clubs and sports are all a part of helping students learn and acquire skills in teamwork, leadership, communication and developing good character. If you would like to know more about this program or how your child can participate, call 334 269-3808. Congratulations to QUEST Coordinator Susan Seagraves and her teachers for a wonderful event and for the outstanding work they do with our students as they pursue their quest for knowledge. Barbara W. Thompson is Montgomery County Schools’ superintendent. She has served children as a teacher, curriculum leader, elementary principal, and supervisor of secondary alternative and at-risk programs. Superintendent Thompson’s skill as an educator has garnered her several professional honors. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the American Association of School Administrators and the Board of the School Superintendents of Alabama.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

SUA Recognizes Outstanding Students

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Success Unlimited Academy’s elementary campus recognizes its fifth- and sixth-grade students for their accomplishments in the classroom as well as their social skills. “I want to compliment these students for their positive attitude and their willingness to be helpers in the classroom,” said Lauren Morgan, English and math teacher. Pictured here with Morgan are Khyrii Cabble, JaMayla Broaden and Javion Broaden.

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Holy Cross Episcopal School sixth-graders have been reading the novel A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park. Through this novel, they have been introduced to a Korean orphan named Tree-ear who desires to be a potter. They have learned about the Korean culture and have been introduced to many pottery terms and techniques. Miss Wright chose to read this novel with her students because it teaches many different life lessons. “We have been able to get into some really deep discussions about good vs. evil,” Wright said. The class also held a debate arguing over choices that the protagonist made throughout the book. When the class finished the novel, students celebrated by molding clay into their very own pottery pieces. They made everything from a ballerina monkey to a rolling desk chair. The students were really able to use their creativity and some of the techniques they learned through the novel. From left, Jacob Holston and Rhys Holifield share their pottery.

STJ Forensics Team Wins District Championship

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Korean Novel Teaches Life Lessons Through Pottery at Holy Cross

Trinity Holds Fundraising Golf & Tennis Tournament

Trinity Presbyterian School presents its Links & Lobs Golf and Tennis Tournament at Wynlakes Golf & Country Club Monday, April 8. Registration deadline is April 5. To register, visit www.trinitywildcats.com/linksandlobs. For questions, contact Mary Elizabeth Collett at 213-2157 or mcollett@trinitywildcats.com.

Saint James School’s Forensics Team won the District Forensics Tournament Feb. 1819, as well as the individual events portion of the match, making the team the Montgomery District Champions. Students Jeronne Carter, Reed Chisenhall, Kaitlyn Theriot, Nathan McElvy, Hayden Cavanaugh, Maya Smith and Sahil Patel qualified for Nationals as a result of their performances at the competition. McElvy won First Place in U.S. Extemporaneous, Smith won First Place in Dramatic Interpretation, and Patel won First Place in International Extemporaneous. In addition, STJ students had four second-place wins, three third-place showings, three fourth-place positions, and two fifth-place showings, for an overall outstanding performance.

Lee ROTC Cadets Read at Highland Avenue

Bear Students Hold Mustache Tribute

Bear Exploration Center third-grade students celebrated “Marvelous Mustache Monday” during Read Across America Week with a mustache tribute to the Lorax, Mr. Brown and other characters of Dr. Seuss stories with marvelous mustaches. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Members of the AFJROTC Kitty Hawk Air Society, Stephen L. Bryson Chapter, at Robert E. Lee High School volunteered to read at Highland Avenue Elementary for “Read Across America” week. The cadets read to the kindergarten classes, and are shown with the school’s guest speaker, children’s author Robert Little. From left are Dari Thornton, Michelle Ecles, Ja’Micha WilliamsPetty, KHAS Commander, Kierra L. Martin, Celeste Thomas, Ta’Shay Wheeler and William Thornton. 15

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Catholic Middle Schoolers Compete in Science Olympiad

Evangel Holds Annual Science Fair

Recently, Evangel Christian Academy held its annual science fair. In the Elementary Division, the first-place winner was Brandon Martin, second place was awarded to AnnWare Knockemus, and Katie Cartee placed third. In the Jr. High Division, first place was awarded to Chris Taylor, second place was awarded to Brian Williams, and Alaina Horton placed third. In the Sr. High Division, Ben Jones placed first, Angelica White came in second and Breonna Walker placed third. The first- and second-place winners advanced to the AISA District 5 competition.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Catholic’s Middle School Science Olympiad Team competed in Auburn on February 23 and received medals or ribbons in 13 categories, including a first-place medal for Henry Petters and Frank Gonzalez, who won the “Write It Do It” competition. MCPS medal recipients were (shown): 1st place, Henry Petters and Frank Gonzalez - Write It Do It; 3rd place (tie), Henry Petters - Metric Mastery; 4th place, Katie Lawrence and Lucy Waite - Water Quality; 4th place, Adam Bristol and Frank Gonzalez - Sounds of Music. MCPS ribbon recipients were: 5th place, Lita Blackburn - Food Science; 6th place, David Bender and Jordan Steele - Crime Busters, David Bender - Boomilever, David Bender and Lita Blackburn - Experimental Design, Ledariane Moore and Henry Petters - Shock Value, Adam Bristol and Frank Gonzalez - Road Scholar, and Cheyenne Hayes and Clint Williams - Rotor Egg Drop; 7th place, Cheyenne Hayes and Katie Lawrence - Keep the Heat; and 8th place, Lita Blackburn and Henry Petters - Reach for the Stars. The team is sponsored by Vicki Petters. 2012-2013 MCPS Middle School Science Olympiad Team Members are: David Bender, Lita Blackburn, Adam Bristol, Frank Gonzalez, Erica Harris, Cheyenne Hayes, Katie Lawrence, Ledariane Moore, Henry Petters, Dylan Riley, Jordan Steele, Lucy Waite and Clint Williams.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Hooper Academy Wins Championship Baseball

The first time Hooper Academy’s baseball team faced Jackson Academy this season, Hooper won by a score of 11-1. DJ Thomas was the winning pitcher. BJ Johnson had a triple and Thomas, Drew Owen, Brandon Kicker and Dylan Chamblee all had doubles. Hooper’s win sent them to the championship game of the Hooper Academy Baseball Classic Tournament undefeated. Hooper ended up facing Jackson Academy again in that game. The Hooper Colts won the championship game over Jackson Academy by a score of 14-4. Darrius Bennett was the winning pitcher and also had a home run. Taylor Campbell went 3 for 3 and Johnson and Chamblee went 2 for 2. Hooper named Thomas as tournament MVP and Owen, Kicker, Johnson, Bennett and Chamblee were named to the All-Tournament team.

Teacher’s Assistant Needed

Montessori at Mulberry is seeking a teacher’s assistant for the Montessori classroom. Please email your resume or reply to casadebambini@aol.com.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

BrewTech Hosts First VEX Robotic Contest

Brewbaker Technology Magnet High recently hosted the first-ever Alabama VEX Robotic Competition. Twenty robotics teams competed from eight middle and high schools from across the state. BrewTech won the Excellence Award (which is the top-scoring robot), Tournament Champions, 2nd Tournament Champions, and the Design Award. These students were sponsored by Engineering Academy instructor Steve Ballard. Shown, Geoffrey Percival, Taylor Bowles and Hunter Meadows are congratulated by Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Ac Camp IT Looks to Recruit Community’s Future Leaders

Macon East Receives Model School Status

Students at Macon East Academy take their Accelerated Reader tests on their personal iPads issued to them for use throughout the school year. Access to their own iPads has allowed students to work hard on AR and the school has received Model School Status with Renaissance Learning. Several classes are reading at the Master Class level, which is awarded when all students in the class maintain an overall average of 90% or higher for AR. Macon East first-graders Jameson Byrom, Reid Sanford and Kaiden Byrom proudly display their above 90% AR average.

On February 1, the Montgomery AFCEA Chapter Education Foundation partnered with local IT Academy Advisory Council, Alabama State University, Troy University Montgomery, and the Alabama Department of Transportation in hosting Camp IT, an educational recruiting event geared toward attracting incoming high school students to pursue career paths related to IT and engineering. More than 250 students from local middle schools attended the event and participated in interactive “mini-camp” sessions specializing in computer-based training software, PC assembly, web design, robotics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. The day kicked off with a brief presentation from Education Foundation Director Charisse Stokes and Montgomery AFCEA Chapter President Dr. Joe Besselman highlighting the benefits of pursuing a career in IT and Engineering. Also speaking to students were Lee High School IT Academy instructors Alesia Ruffin and Kevon Chesson; and Mark Peterson, author of “Guerrillapreneur.” The Montgomery AFCEA Chapter was proud to sponsor the event by providing custom Tshirts for each student, as well as the donation of two iPods for a raffle event. The chapter looks forward to continuing efforts educating local River Region youth on the benefits of IT careers and remains dedicated to providing career-enhancing opportunities available to these hard-working students. For more info, visit http://afceamontgomery.org/Education. Shown, students attempt to maneuver a robot to pick up blocks after watching a demonstration performed during a Robotics Mini-Camp session.

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Academy Forensics Program Earns National Award

The Montgomery Academy Forensics Program has been given the 2011-2012 Leading Chapter Award by the National Forensics League (NFL). This coveted award, based on student participation, is the highest honor the League can bestow upon a chapter. Only one school in each district attains this designation each year and it must wait at least five years before being eligible again. This is the fourth time in the past 20 years that The Montgomery Academy has been honored with this award, making the Academy one of only two schools in the nation to achieve this honor. This year, out of more than 3,000 NFL member schools nationwide, The Montgomery Academy is one of only 108 to receive the Leading Chapter Award. This award reflects 558 student members and degrees over the past five years. In that time, several hundred students have been taught communication, analysis, leadership, and social skills through The Montgomery Academy Forensics program. The Academy Forensics program is under the direction of Jay Rye, who received the prestigious Fourth Diamond Award last year and was one of only four debate coaches in the country to receive the honor. An NFL Diamond Award recognizes a professional career that combines excellence and longevity. Earlier this academic year, the Academy chapter placed in the top 1% of NFL chapters nationwide and earned membership in the League’s prestigious Societé de 300. Such a milestone is remarkable because it demonstrates outstanding commitment to teaching students essential life skills–communication, research, listening, writing and organization. Shown are Dave Farace, Montgomery Academy Head of School, and Jay Rye, Forensics Coach. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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ACA Jumps Rope for Heart

STJ To Offer 25 Foreign Languages

Saint James School will offer 25 foreign language choices for students beginning in 2013-14, including the instruction already provided in Spanish, Latin and French. Through a new site license agreement with Rosetta Stone Classroom, the expanded range of language options includes Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Dutch, German, Filipino, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Farsi, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Swedish, Turkish and Vietnamese, among others. “Saint James School is again leading the way in providing unique opportunities for students in central Alabama,” said Head of School Melba Richardson. “After months of study and discussion we’ve selected Rosetta Stone Classroom as one more valuable resource we offer to give our students a competitive edge in the global 21st Century world.” Students in elementary, middle and high school will have 24/7 access to Rosetta Stone Classroom, the more structured, educational version of the highly respected multiple language curriculum. Access to the program will be available from home or school on a full 12-month basis, allowing students to incorporate learning throughout the summer months as well as during the academic year. “Another significant benefit of using Rosetta Stone Classroom at Saint James is that we’ll provide all international K-12 students an English language subscription to the program,” said STJ Academic Dean Susan Atkins. “This is of tremendous benefit to students who are English Language Learners, because it supplements the English they hear in the classroom and the assistance they receive through our ESL tutoring program. Access to English through Rosetta Stone Classroom allows these students to learn at a rate commensurate with their age and knowledge level.” www.montgomeryparents.com

This year’s Jump Rope for Heart was once again a GREAT SUCCESS! For eleven years the students at Alabama Christian Academy have been the top money raisers for the State of Alabama for JRFH for the American Heart Association. This has placed them in the top 10% of schools nationally participating in JRFH for the American Heart Association. The theme this year was “PROUD EAGLES ROLL ON.” To motivate and encourage students, there were various activities such as rolling on skateboards and scooters; throwing a roll for the goal; and rolling Elementary Principal Mr. Black’s truck. The ACA students raised a total of $29,182.09! The students had a lot of fun rolling Mr. Black like a mummy as a reward for their great efforts. Top money raisers for the 2013 JRFH were Karson Oakley (K5) - $1,040, Jacque Hagan (5th) - $1,036; and Jordan Wilson (3RD) $1,010. Of the 246 students participating in JRFH at ACA, 35 of them raised $300 or more. Community support included Heather VacLav from WAKA coming to to jump with the students. The Chick-Fil-A at Promenade supported ACA’s efforts this year with a financial donation and sandwiches for the $100 money raisers. Dairy Queen on the Atlanta Highway supported students with a financial donation, an ice cream cake for the class that raised the most money and hotdogs for the $100 money raisers. The Winn Dixie at Promenade provided water and snacks for the students on JRFH day. CVS on Bell Road/Vaughn Road helped support the students by providing some prizes for those that participated in the event. Thank you to volunteer parents, Lori Hagan and Trish Midkiff, for their time and help to ACA and JRFH! Several kindergarten students are shown jumping for a good cause.

Jeff Samuel Visits SUA Builders Club

The newly chartered Builders Club of Success Unlimited Academy hosted Jeff Samuel, 2nd vice president of the Montgomery Kiwanis Club, and welcomed him as Builders sponsor and mentor for 2012-2013. His purpose was to first develop a relationship with the SUA junior high members and to offer his experience and leadership skills to the students. He reminded them of the Builders Club goals of service to the school, community and even international opportunities. Samuel participated in the meeting from the call to order by President Toni Russell, reading of the minutes by Secretary Trinity Mays, the treasurer’s report given by Mollison Dean, and Vice President Jordan Andrews assisting the club president. One purpose of his visit was to train and emphasize the responsibilities of the Builders Club officers, but found that the officers were already quite prepared and conducting their club meetings efficiently. SUA Builders Club members shared some of the projects that they had participated in so far and some future ideas. Samuel talked about the Eliminate Project with UNICEF and was pleased to know that the club had donated $260 toward that international goal of eliminating tetanus. After a time of questions and answers, the vice president gave Samuel a token of thanks and invited him to come back anytime. The Builders Club meets the third Wednesday of each month. Advisors are teachers Sue James and Recenah Clinton. 20

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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MPS Launches Go Green Campaign

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Montgomery Public Schools kicked off its Go Green Campaign by announcing the launch of a new recycling program and impressive energy savings. During the event held at Dozier Elementary, Superintendent Barbara Thompson announced that the district has reached the $4.3 million mark in energy savings and that MPS will partner with the Montgomery Clean City Commission to promote recycling at each of the district’s schools. “For the past several years, our energy education program has been an effective tool in helping us reduce our energy consumption,” said Thompson. “That has played a big factor in the $4 million in savings we’ve seen. I’m also pleased to announce our partnership with the Montgomery Clean City Commission to implement a recycling program. This is the first time we have ever had a coordinated, district-wide effort to promote recycling among schools and departments. Feedback so far has been positive, and we’re expecting great results.” The Go Green Campaign will focus on recycling and energy conservation through behavior modification. The Montgomery Clean City Commission provided recycle bins and training on how to use them for custodians at each school. One week each month, the bags will be collected and delivered to a local recycling center, which will weigh the contents. Each quarter, high performing schools and custodians will be recognized with an MPS Green Award. “We are doing very well with our energy program and hope to reach the $5 million mark by this summer,” said MPS Energy Specialist Ken Wright. “MPS Maintenance Department, teachers, students, school staff and custodians have all worked together to conserve energy by turning off lights and powering down computers and office equipment when not in use. Thermostats in many schools are now centrally controlled and several buildings have received new energy efficient windows or lighting retrofits. All these things have helped reduce our costs.” Thompson added, “By reusing and recycling materials and reducing our energy cost, we’re not only saving money, we have a positive impact on the environment.” Shown, the Montgomery Clean City Commission’s Cynthia Jancaterino, better known to MPS elementary students as the “Talking Tree,” helped members of the Dozier Elementary Student Council recite the Go Green Recycling Pledge during the district’s kick-off event.

Trinity Presbyterian School is one of four schools in the State of Alabama recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for the 2012-2013 school year for its implementation of 21st century learning methodologies in the classroom and throughout the school. Trinity is blazing new trails and changing the way students are learning. Championing the “flipped classroom” concept throughout the school, our students are taking a bite out of the future every day.

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Contact Monica Lott 334.213.2137 Trinity admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Trinity does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origins in any of the educational policies, scholarship programs and athletics, and other school-administered programs.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Lee High School Student Chosen for Honor Band

Lee High School band student Anthony Sexton was recently selected to perform with the District 6 High School Honor Band during a competition held in Auburn. The honor band is comprised of the best and brightest student musicians across the state of Alabama. Sexton also received a music scholarship to Alabama A&M University.

Shakespeare Wagon Visits Hooper Academy

Students at Hooper Academy had a recent opportunity to meet one of Shakespeare’s “friends.” On February 6, Jerry Partin visited Hooper and gave four excellent presentations from his Shakespeare wagon to all students in grades kindergarten through twelfth grade. In each presentation, he gave a brief summary of three or four of Shakespeare’s most popular plays and had students come forward to stand in for various characters. They wore period costumes and held props, assisting Partin in making Shakespeare’s classic stories come alive. Though the acting was improvised and occasionally even a bit “messy,” it made the students see Shakespeare in a fun new way. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Trinity Inducts New Junior Honor Society Members

The National Junior Honor Society induction was held for qualified Trinity Presbyterian School students February 1 in Willett Hall. Membership in the National Junior Honor Society is one of the highest honors that can be awarded a student. This organization strives to recognize the student who excels in scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship. Students considered for membership must achieve the required cumulative grade-point average. Newly inducted members include: Anne Macon Adams, Carolyn Albritton, Samuel Ames, Chip Blake, Claudia Collins, Joseph Curtis, Jordan Dennis, Adam DuCote, Mary Margaret Easterling, Sarah Kate Etheredge, Ethan Gentry, Madison Gillis, Aubrey Grant, Mary Carmen Haynes, Will Heartsill, Bailey Hope, Ashley Kendrick, Noah McNelley, Sam Nunn, Eddie Parma, J Payne, Catherine Price, Allie Ramsey, Sidney Richards, Brian Roth, Aliya Seebrat, John Sluis, T. A. Sluis, Mary V Stabler, Nick Styron, Mary Conley Teel, Abby Tinney, Kacey Tinney, Ella Brannen Walker, Cooper Waller and James Wilder.

ECA Student Chosen As AISA All-Star

Evangel Christian Academy senior Zach Bruce was recently chosen as an AISA Football All-Star. He played on the AISA All-Star East Team and help lead the team to victory. Bruce, who played as a defensive back for the ECA Lions team, ended the season with 20 tackles and two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Bruce also ran 510 yards, setting a school record. He has attended Evangel Christian Academy for three years and plans to attend Georgia State and major in sports medicine.

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ACA Art Class Takes Field Trip to UA

Lee ROTC Students Hold Annual Military Ball

The Robert E. Lee High School AFJROTC annual Military Ball was held at Gateway Park Lodge on March 1. The Gala event included Michelle Summers, Lee’s Theater Arts Director, as the evening guest speaker. The customary “senior” walk showcased the graduating seniors who are enrolled in the program, and the highlight of the evening was the crowning of the Queen and King and their attendants. From left are attendants Ja’Micha Williams-Petty, William Tutt, Zachary Thornton, Adam Fabacher and Dalpreca Dixon. Queen Celeste Thomas is currently a Private First Class in the Army National Guard, with plans to attend Spellman College. She is a member of the Key Club, National Honor Society, Kitty Hawk Air Society, Stephen L. Bryson Chapter, French National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. King Ronnie Webb plans to join the Army National Guard and attend Alabama State University, majoring in business. (Photo courtesy of Dreamers Photography)

Firefighter Reads to Lighthouse Preschoolers Firefighter Peoples enjoyed reading two Dr. Seuss books to the preschool at Lighthouse Christian Academy. www.montgomeryparents.com

The Alabama Christian Academy’s advanced art classes attended the University of Alabama in February to tour their Department of Art and Art History. Dr. Catherine Pagani gave an overview of the department and what it offers students and then introduced two art ambassadors, who gave a tour of many of the various art studios. These studios included 3-D printing, pottery, woodworking, sculpting, painting, print making, and graphic design. The students enjoyed the tour, and several students expressed an interest in attending the University of Alabama after the tour. Drew Tanner, an Art IV student, will be attending the university and majoring in art in the fall.

Academy Art Students Earn Top Scholastic Awards

Several Montgomery Academy students recently received recognition in the Regional Level of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Pieces by Morgan Heumann and Savannah Bullard earned Gold Keys in the competition. Gold Key winners earn the highest level of achievement on the regional level with approximately 7-10% of all regional submissions selected. These pieces are considered for national-level recognition. Silver Keys were given to submissions by Emily Pierce, April Shambo (2 silver keys), Elizabeth Goodwin, Elsa Leonard and Caroline Lester. Silver Key winners represent approximately 10-15% of all regional submissions. Miso Kim, Christine Hong, McEachern Foy, Abby Crawford (2 Honorable Mentions) and Corrie Tankersley (2 Honorable Mentions) earned Honorable Mentions. Approximately 15-20% of all regional submissions receive Honorable Mention Awards. Since their founding, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards have identified the early promise of some of the nation’s most exceptional visionaries. Judges look for works that best exemplify the Awards’ core values: originality, technical skill, and the emergence of personal voice or vision. Year after year the program grows with increased participation from students and communities across the country. In the past five years alone, submissions have topped 700,000 works, and students have been eligible for over $25 million in awards and scholarships. Shown, Abby Crawford’s Awe and Wonder

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Holy Cross Second Grade Holds Dino-riffic Unit

Holy Cross Episcopal School second-graders eagerly anticipate the dino-riffic dinosaur unit each year. This year, students entered the classroom the first morning of the unit study to find a large dinosaur on each person’s desk. Their assignment that day was to draw and color their dinosaur. During the remainder of the unit, Mrs. Echols read “Dinosaur Babies” and talked about “Maiasa Maiasaura” (good mother lizard). The students wrote paragraphs about how they thought the mother Maiasaura would take care of her babies. Other activities and discussions included fossils, periods of the dinosaurs, and the extinction of the dinosaur. They also learned about Sue Hendrickson, who discovered the largest and most complete T-Rex fossil ever found. The unit concluded with a “Dino-riffic Day” in which the children were allowed to choose their own Dino-mite activity from many choices. Youngjae Kim is shown exploring different dinosaurs.

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Governor Presents Plaque to Highland Avenue

Alabama Governor Robert Bentley recently presented Highland Avenue Elementary School with a plaque during the state Department of Education’s annual Torchbearers Awards Luncheon. Highland Avenue Principal Pat Kornegay, shown holding the plaque, and her staff were among 20 Alabama public schools to receive the prestigious award which recognizes high-poverty schools where exemplary leadership, high academic standards, parental involvement and student achievement overcome what can be considered as barriers to student success. Highland Avenue has received the award five times since 2006.

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Catholic Band Members Chosen for Honor Bands

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School had several band members selected as part of the Alabama All State and All District Honor Bands. Auditions were held in Opelika on January 26. Band director Alex Johnson commended every student who made the trip to Opelika and tried out. He feels that with the effort to audition, his band members “distinguished themselves as dedicated musicians and top members of the MCPS Band.” Those accepted to the State-District Honor Bands include: Middle School All-State Band: Adam Bristol; High School All-State Honors Band: Beth Vaughan, William Russell and alternates Reagan Starrett and Logan Stevens; Middle School All District: Audrey Kim - 6th Chair, Adam Bristol - 1st Chair, David Bender - 4th Chair and Henry Petters - 5th Chair; and High School All District: Mary Reagan Starrett - 14th Chair, Logan Stevens - 15th Chair All-District, Beth Vaughan - 1st Chair All-District, William Russell 2nd Chair All-District, Katie McDaniel - 7th Chair, Will Brunson - 5th Chair and Eric Crenshaw - 7th Chair.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Br Academy Student Qualifies For State Geography Bee Montgomery Academy seventhgrader Andrew Harris, winner of the 2013 Montgomery Academy Geography Bee, has qualified to compete in the 2013 Alabama National Geographic Bee contest on April 5 at Samford University in Birmingham. Each year thousands of schools in the United States participate in the National Geographic Bee using materials prepared by the National Geographic Society. The contest is designed to encourage teachers to include geography in their classrooms, spark student interest in the subject, and increase public awareness about geography. Schools with students in grades four through eight are eligible for this entertaining and challenging test of geographic knowledge.

Macon East Student Receives Dance Award

Macon East first-grader Pressley Graham won the first-place award for her triplet dance at a recent competition in Birmingham. She also placed in the top ten out of eighteen groups in the eight and under division. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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BrewTech Technology Group Participates in Proclamation BrewTech Technology Student Association recently visited the Alabama State Capitol to celebrate Gov. Robert Bentley’s proclamation declaring February as Career Tech Month in the state of Alabama. Front row from left are Victoria Houlton, Treasurer (Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School); Tempest Cantrell, President (Shelby County High School); and Jesse Duncan, Secretary (Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School). Second row are: Sherman Peek, Vice President (Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School); Austin Powell, Sergeant at Arms (Decatur High School); and Houston May, Reporter (Decatur High School). Third Row: Mr. Ben Scheierman, Alabama TSA State Advisor; Kaitlyn Beans, National TSA Treasurer; and Dr. Phillip Cleveland, Career Tech Director, Alabama Department of Education.

Hooper Celebrates Seuss Hooper Academy’s kindergarten class celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday by eating green eggs and ham. Mr. Petite, the school headmaster, read a Dr. Seuss book to the class.

Catholic High School Students Win at Science Olympiad

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s (MCPS) budding scientists came away winners at the South Alabama Regional Science Olympiad competition, hosted by the Spring Hill College in Mobile. For the second year in a row, the Knights won third place overall in the High School Division, and were invited to compete in the State Competition on March 16 at Huntingdon College in Montgomery. The team composed of students from freshmen to seniors, came away with seven third places, seven second places, and four first-place medals. Kathryn O’Connor, chair of the Science Department for MCPS and head coach said, “We had a tremendous amount of effort put forth by our entire team. Faculty, coaches, and parents provided guidance, but this was truly the result of study, perseverance and plain old hard work by our students.” Earning individual honors were: Brian Brunson – Water Quality 2nd, Fermi Questions 2nd, Rocks & Minerals 3rd ; Baines Deal-Water Quality 3rd ; Kenneth DickersonForestry 2nd, Astronomy 3rd ; Anne Faulkner-Forestry 2nd, Experimental Design 3rd ; Berkeley Hall- Technical Problem Solving 2nd, Thermodynamics 3rd, Water Quality 3rd Zach Hulcher-Remote Sensing 1st, Dynamic Planet 2nd, Thermodynamics 3rd ; Patrick McGinn- Circuit Lab 3rd; Allie MicherDisease Detectives 2nd ; Stone MillerExperimental Design 3rd ; Sarah NolanCircuit Lab 3rd and Experimental Design 3rd ; Maddie O’MaraMagnetic Levitation 1st,Gravity Vehicle 1st, Dynamic Planet 2nd, Elastic Launch Glider 3rd ; Patrick O’MaraMagnetic Levitation 1st, Gravity Vehicle 1st, Elastic Launch Glider 3rd ; Leo Petters-Magnetic Levitation 1st, Remote Sensing 1st, Technical Problem Solving 2nd ; Willie Ravelo-Write It/Do It 1st, Thermodynamics 2nd, Fermi Questions 2nd ; Robbie Sankey-Water Quality 2nd ; Spencer Starr- Astronomy 3rd; Kristina VanellaDisease Detectives 2nd ; and Chase Williams-Write It/Do It 1st, Thermodynamics 2nd. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Success Unlimited Aids Food Bank

The students and faculty of Success Unlimited Academy showed their spirit by holding a food drive for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. The week before the Auburn/Alabama game, the Student Government Association sponsored a food drive competition between Auburn and Alabama fans. Two barrels were put in the school lobby and each barrel was designated for one of the two universities. Students competed to see which fans brought in the most food. The last day of the food drive students could come to school dressed in their Auburn or Alabama attire. Though both barrels were full, the Alabama barrel ended up with the most canned items. SGA sponsor Mrs. Nunnelly stated that it was a fun way to donate to a much-needed cause and assisted many families in having a better Thanksgiving. The school held the food drive for two days and collected more than 300 pounds of food. Special thanks goes out to senior Cameron Carlisle for picking up the barrels and delivering them to the school and also returning the barrels and food to the Food Bank. www.montgomeryparents.com

Obama Invites Trinity to Witness Departure

ACA Students Take Part In Let’s Pretend Hospital

The first-grade classes at Alabama Christian Academy attended a field trip to Baptist Hospital called “Let’s Pretend Hospital.” The purpose of the event is to introduce students to a hospital atmosphere in a fun, educational and non-threatening manner. Each class chooses a classmate to be the patient, mom and dad for the day. Students learn about procedures they would experience if they ever were admitted to the hospital. The children also get to go inside an ambulance so the experience would not be so frightening if they ever had to be in one for real. Emma Russell was ACA’s patient for the day.

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Trinity Presbyterian School eighth-graders just returned from a week-long trip to Washington, D.C. They visited several sites, including the Arlington Cemetery, the WWII Memorial, the United States Naval Academy, the Pentagon, the National Cathedral, Mt. Vernon, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Smithsonian Museums, and the White House. While visiting the White House, they were invited to watch President Obama depart on Marine One from the White House south lawn. Students and faculty were thrilled and honored by the President’s invitation. The President was on his way to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, which happened to be where the eight-graders were going later that day. Students enjoyed the annual trip to Washington, including taking in a basketball game between the New York Knicks and the Washington Wizards at the Verizon Center on Wednesday evening. Parents and friends of the group were able to follow the trip in realtime on twitter by following @TPSDC, which proved to be a big hit with parents and students.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Holy Cross Students Become Prepositions

Who said learning about prepositions couldn’t be entertaining? Holy Cross Episcopal School fifth-grade teacher Amber Wright decided to use the playground in her lesson on prepositions. “When you start getting a blank look on your students’ faces, you know it’s time to shake things up a bit!” she said. She told her students to put their textbooks away, grab a clipboard and sheet of paper, and head to the playground. While on the playground, Wright went “down the slide” and asked students what she had just done. As they recited the prepositional phrase to her, she exclaimed that prepositions are words they use all the time. She then asked different students to “become prepositions” while students wrote different prepositional phrases on their paper. Braxton Trest took off running “around the playground,” while Cole Pierce jumped “over the bridge” and Kinley Tadlock stood “inside the climber.” “I can only hope that when their future teachers start teaching about prepositions, they will be able to think back to the day they became a preposition on the playground,” Wright said. Jada Sparks is shown sitting “on the bridge” at Holy Cross.

Five MA Students Compete in Nat’l Forensics Tournament

The Montgomery Academy Forensics Team hosted the Deep South District Tournament under the direction of Jay Rye with teams from across Alabama participating. Five students from Montgomery Academy will represent the school at the National Tournament of the National Forensic League which is being held in Birmingham this summer. The five students are: Benton Hughes - Congress; Neill McCorvey - Congress; Evan Price - Humorous Interpretation; William Haynes - Policy Debate; and William Newman - Policy Debate. This will be the 21st consecutive year that Montgomery Academy has qualified at least one student to the National Tournament.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Evangel Holds Special Grandparents’ Day

Evangel Christian Academy recently celebrated Grandparents’ Day. The excited grandparents ate lunch with the children and visited the classrooms, while the students enjoyed showing their grandparents what they do at school. After visiting the classrooms, the grandparents were invited to a special chapel service honoring them. Each of the elementary classes sang for the proud guests. In addition, the visitors enjoyed listening to a special sermon given by Pastor Michael Rippy, senior pastor at Evangel Church and president of Evangel Christian Academy.

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Catholic Student Writes Winning Humane Society Essay

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School sixth-grader Nicholas Brown won the city-wide essay contest, “The Power of Pets,” held by the Montgomery Humane Society. Brown entered the contest with an essay he wrote as an English assignment. He wrote about what his dog has taught him and how special his pet is to him. The Humane Society’s Mary Hughes visited the St. Bede Campus on February 21 to present Brown with a medal and a check for $100. With a giving spirit, Brown graciously accepted the medal and refused the check. He asked that the Humane Society use the money instead to help feed the animals at the shelter. From left are dad Nick Brown, Nicholas, mom Barbara Brown and Mary Hughes.

Hooper Softball Takes Second Place in Tournament

Hooper Academy’s varsity softball team took second place in its tournament March 1 and 2. All-Tournament players from Hooper were sophomore Susan King and junior Emily Owens. Hooper went 3-2 for the weekend, losing out to Springwood Academy who took first in the tournament. The Lady Colts are led by Coach Allie Park and Coach Courtney Baker.

School News to editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Trinity Senior Named National Merit Finalist

Trinity Presbyterian School senior Nina Smith was named a National Merit Finalist in the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Program. She is among an elite group that represents less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors. Smith is a gifted student with a cumulative grade-point average of 4.32. In addition to being named a National Merit Semifinalist, she was recently selected as an AP Scholar with Honor. Smith has been awarded numerous accolades during her years at Trinity. Some include the Awards for the Highest Grade-Point Average in AP Biology, AP U.S. History, Honors Anatomy and Physiology, and French III. In addition, she is the recipient of the Henry C. Meader Academic Scholarship, Harvard Book Award, and the Sewanee Book Award. Smith has placed first in many areas of Alabama’s State and Regional Science Olympiad, the Scholar’s Bowl, and the Regional EnvironBowl, serving as team captain. She is a member of the National Honor Society, National French Honor Society, National Forensics League, and Key Club. She has participated in Trinity’s spring musical productions, Anything Goes and Crazy for You. Smith is also very active in the Prattville First Presbyterian Church and has been a teacher’s assistant in teaching English as a second language at the church and on the mission field in El Paso, Texas.

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

CELEBRATING 13 YEARS OF SUCCESS!

Success Unlimited Academy, LLC K-12 • SACS / AdvancEd Ed. Accredited

Montgomery’s Foremost Institution Dedicated to Individualized Education

ENROLL NOW FOR WINTER 2013 Interdisciplinary Arts Programs Music Education • Drama Productions • Visual Arts Girls Volleyball • Key Club • Drama Club • Basketball Baseball • Cheerleading • Fellowship of Christian Students After school programs (Praise Band, Guitar Lessons)

St. Bede Kindergarten Class Holds Clifford Birthday Party

A Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School kindergarten class has finished a study of Norman Bridwell, the author and illustrator of the Clifford books. The Clifford Books were first published in 1963, which makes Clifford 50 years old. Mrs. Redden’s class had a birthday party for Clifford on February 14. A stuffed Clifford dog has visited each student in the class. Each student took home Clifford and wrote a real or make-believe story of Clifford’s adventures, which he/she read to the class the next day. Mrs. Redden’s students are: George Allison, Sydney Bass, Cooper Beesley, Ben Chitlik, Ryan Coker, Harper Howell, Amedeus Kayisavera, Avery Langan, Cameron Livingston, Lucas Macchia, Anya Montelara, Harrison Rogers, Maddie Sanderson, Maggie Sasser and Jackson Wright. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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STJ Eighth-Graders Tour Washington, D.C.

Academy Juniors Participate in Career Day

On February 21, Montgomery Academy juniors participated in Career Day, a program that allows the students to identify a career that interests them and then to shadow an individual in that line of work. Coordinated by Upper School Guidance Counselor Alexis Wakefield, Career Day was first implemented in the 2010-11 academic year and was received with enthusiasm from faculty, students and employers. Among the professions sampled this year were medicine, law, technology, photography, accounting, coaching and government. Lilla Bea Granger enjoyed shadowing Lieutenant Governor Kay Ivey and observing her presiding over the senate during session. “I loved getting to see what it is really like to be an elected official and sitting on the senate floor. I deeply admire Lieutenant Governor Ivey and her dedication to the people of the state of Alabama!” said Granger. “Studying law and going on to serve as an elected official is definitely an interest of mine as a career choice and I really appreciated the chance to see what it would truly be like to work a day in this field.” Liza Hunter shadowed Anne Frederick of Heidi’s Fine Jewelry and got to see the behind the scenes operations of a jewelry store. From creating displays, to dealing with customers, to order processing, Hunter observed what it takes to run a business in the jewelry/retail industry. Brock Hendon shadowed Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Thornton at Dentists For Children. Hendon got to view different procedures on patients as well as observe the making of crowns and taking of X-rays. Above, Lilla Bea Granger worked with Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey during MA Career Day. www.montgomeryparents.com

After spending four days filled with great learning opportunities and sightseeing, Saint James School eighth-graders are now firmly ensconced in a Saint James tradition. Every year, the school’s eighth-graders take a trip to the nation’s capital, chaperoned by their teachers, Middle School Principal Cathy Pearson, Middle School Counselor Laura Spivey, Property Manager Chris Sullivan, and Head of School Melba Richardson and her husband Dr. Bill Richardson. Students Sara Arrington, Molly Harback, Alan Azar and Noah Burtschi exhibited great precision during their participation in the wreath-laying ceremony at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Saint James’s participation in the ceremony is an honored part of the annual trip that is emotionally compelling for many STJ students as well as casual observers at the cemetery. In addition to touring Arlington and the various sites there, STJ students visited a long list of historic sites, including the National Cathedral, the National Gallery of Art, the Holocaust Museum, and Mt. Vernon. “My favorite pictures were taken of our students gazing out on the Potomac River as George Washington surely did,” Richardson said. “The memorials, Ford’s Theatre and Smithsonian were great learning experiences for us all. When we visited the U.S. Capitol on the last day of our trip, we were met by one of our STJ alums, Haley Wilson, who is working for one of our Alabama congressmen. Senator Jeff Sessions later met with our students and talked about the opportunities and responsibilities his job involves.” At the U.S. Capitol, when a guide asked if anyone knew about the Dred Scott Case, STJ student Mason Edwards described it in great detail, even recanting the full background story, recalled Middle School Counselor Laura Spivey. “It was such a bonding experience with all my teachers and classmates, and I made friendships with some classmates that I didn’t know as well,” said Colton Alter, an eighth-grader who was a part of the STJ tour group. “I felt very lucky to go to our nation’s capital when so many people in the U.S. don’t get a chance to see it in person.” Front, from left, Saint James School eighth-graders Noah Burtschi and Molly Harback, and back, Sara Arrington and Allen Azar, prepare to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery.

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SUA Announces Cast List for School Production

The Success Unlimited Academy Players recently announced the cast list for an original production entitled Coming Home. Director Jason Morgan wrote this show specifically for the students who auditioned and wanted to be a part of a drama production. The show is about a family who reminisces about their childhood and embrace “coming home” to their childhood home. It is full of laughter and fun, and there are a few sad moments as well, just as life has its own sad moments. The following students will be involved in the spring drama production: Amber Messick, Marsa Beck, Caroline Moody, Sydney Manning, Carly Rowe, Lamia Boykin, Jonah Hoke, Ashley Myers, Bethany Odle, Artisia Peagler and Jamie Taylor.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Holy Cross Performs ‘American Idol’ Parody

Holy Cross Episcopal School fourth-graders took a spin on the popular reality TV show, American Idol, in their production, “The American Ideal.” Minjae Kim shined as host, Ryan D. Best. Judges Simon Coward, Bro Jackson and Freida Bragg were played by Cooper Horn, Mitchell Davis and Shalom Kamau. The audience was in hysterics over their interpretations of the reality show judges. The program was a story of four contestants who are competing to be the next pop star, played by Maggie Kinney, Cole Armagost, Josie Stough and Madelyn Erdoes. During “Gospel Night,” the contestants discover the truth about themselves as reality TV takes on a whole new meaning. This humorous look at fame, fortune, and flim-flam turns popular culture on its head and shines the spotlight of God’s truth about humility in the hearts of contestants and audience members alike.

Farmer Joe Visits ACA

Alabama Christian Academy secondgraders were treated to an in-school field trip March 4 when they were visited by Joe Lambrecht, the owner of Oakview Farms in Wetumpka. He has extensive knowledge on the subject of bees because he has many hives on his farm. Lambrecht explained how bees live in their hives, how a beehive is constructed, and more. He brought trays that show how bees live, from birth to hive-cleaning to honey-making! His visit coincided with a non-fiction story on bees that ACA classes had just completed. The students look forward to visiting Lambrecht’s farm. They want to see his goats, chickens and bees, and watch Lambrecht grind grits and cornmeal. He even grows hydroponic lettuce, strawberries and blueberries. A store on his farm sells all of these things and more.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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‘Alabama Moon’ Author Visits the Academy

Montgomery Academy students in grades five through nine recently welcomed acclaimed author Watt Key to the Vaughn Road campus as part of the Middle School author program. Key, who has written Alabama Moon, Dirt Road Home and Fourmile, delighted the students with lively presentations depicting his experiences of living off the land in the wilds of north Alabama for two weeks. With graphic descriptions of the foods he ate, the second-hand bow and arrow he used as a weapon and the shelter he built, the students were mesmerized by these tales which ultimately provided the background information for his novel, Alabama Moon. To add to the authenticity of the book discussion, middle school faculty donned “living in the wild” apparel for the event and there was even a visit from a bloodhound to represent one of the book’s characters. Students also got into character by wearing Alabama Moon attire the following day.

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Macon East Students Re-enact History

Fifth and sixth grade students recently visited the American Village located in Montevallo. They enjoyed being a part of the Liberty program and learning in a more hands-on setting about the American Revolution. The students participated in re-enactments of the events that took place to help shape our nation into the country it is today. Gwen Walter’s Sixth Grade Class is shown at The American Village.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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STJ Honors State 1-4A Wrestling Champs

Saint James School honored its 1-4A State Championship Wrestling Team at a school pep rally on February 21, where the winning team members and their coach, Craig Duncan, were formally congratulated by Athletic Director Jerry Browning and Head of School Melba Richardson. The school’s award-winning band was on hand for the celebration, along with middle and high school students who cheered the victorious team. The school’s firstplace finish in the State Tournament on February 19 marks the first state championship for the Trojan wrestlers. Of the nine STJ wrestlers who qualified for the state tourney held at Huntsville’s Von Braun Center, eight medaled. (Robert Griggs, the ninth team member, did not compete due to an injury.) In addition to the Trojans’ firstclass team win, senior Chase Collins finished in first place in the 138- lb. weight class. Heavyweight class Brad Murray, Chase Ritter at 170 lbs. and Stephen Kwan at 126 lbs. received second-place wins. Geoffrey Murray (113 lbs.), Arthur Frawley (220 lbs) and Coleman Adams (145 lbs.) were third-place winners, while 132-lb. competitor Matt Murray finished in fourth place.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Evangel Celebrates Dr. Seuss’ Birthday

Evangel Christian Academy’s kindergarten, first- and second-grade classes celebrated the birthday of Theodor S. Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. The children learned about the life of the famous author and the events that inspired many of his books. The classes enjoyed a whimsical day full of activities based on the author’s stories. The students read The Cat in the Hat; The Cat in the Hat Comes Back; and Green Eggs and Ham. They also enjoyed watching film adaptations of these famous books. The children made their own “Cat in the Hat” party hats, enjoyed playing rhyming games, and ate green eggs and ham. The fiveyear kindergarten class returned from lunch to find that the “Cat in the Hat” had visited their room and left his mischievous mark. Later that day, the first-grade class had a surprise visit from “Thing One” and “Thing Two.”

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Hooper First-Graders Visit Pretend Hospital

Mrs. Moncrief’s first-grade class at Hooper Academy visited the Let’s Pretend Hospital on March 1. The students were able to gain a firsthand perspective of what it is like to be a patient at the hospital. The class visited Build a Bear in Eastdale Mall to build bears dressed in hospital scrubs in order to remember their visit at the Let’s Pretend Hospital.

Catholic Students Compete in TEAMS

More than 30 students from Montgomery Catholic participated recently in the TEAMS competition, finishing first at the new Middle School level, first for the third straight year at the 9th-10th grade level, and fourth at the 11th-12th grade level. TEAMS is hosted by Auburn University and sponsored by the Technology Student Association. TEAMS stands for Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics and Science. Groups of up to eight students compete by responding to questions on a global engineering theme. Past themes include solving the world’s water needs and meeting the world’s growing energy needs. This year’s theme was “Engineering a Secure Cyberspace.” Students researched topics such as protecting private data, preventing software attacks on web sites, and securing wireless networks against hacking. Montgomery Catholic is the only Alabama school to compete at all three levels. Team sponsor Joe Profio explains, “TEAMS gives our students real-world applications of science and mathematics on important problems with no easy solutions. Open-ended essay questions encourage them to develop and justify new ideas.” Senior Zach Hulcher adds, “Before TEAMS I really didn’t know the scope of problems engineers take on. After four years in TEAMS, I realize the difference engineers make in the world, and I now plan to major in engineering after graduation.” Montgomery Catholic students that participated from the Middle School campus are: Luke Craig, Danny Do, Nicolas Homsher, Morris Lottinger and Henry Petters; and from the High School campus: Gaten Armstrong, Somlee Baek, Paige Barranco, Dylan Craig, Kenneth Dickerson, Ann Faulkner, Andrea Hayes, Zach Hulcher, Derek Kelly, Ashley Kim, Jinah Kim, Joonhee Kim, Jihyun Lee, Garrett Libby, Jarrett Mason, Mary McLaughlin, Stone Miller, Madeleine O’Mara, Patrick O’Mara, Elizabeth Overton, Leo Petters, Guillermo Ravelo, Robbie Stakey, Sang Won Seo, Giselle Simms, Katherine Terino and Chase Williams.

Classes at Trinity Have Gone Global

Several of Trinity Presbyterian School’s classes have gone global with the use of iTunes U. Students from all over the world can now access classroom lessons produced by teachers at Trinity. iTunes U allows teachers to upload video lessons for students. Seventh-grade math teacher Kelly Long utilizes iTunes U to aid her in her “flipped” classroom. Students watch lessons at home on their MacBooks and take notes on the material. Then traditional homework assignments are completed in class where she is able to offer individualized assistance. Karen McVay, Technology Integrationist Specialist at Trinity, posts and manages all of the classes on iTunes U. “iTunes U helped the school overcome several hurdles which included a place to store and archive videos,” she explained. “The iTunes U program fit the criteria providing limitless storage, unlimited video length and best of all, it is free.” Recently, McVay showed Long data collected by the iTunes U site. The information revealed that Long’s classes have more than 1,000 followers. People are watching her pre-algebra classes in China, Russia, Turkey, India and the U.K. Long was surprised by the news and said, “I had no idea that anyone outside of my students would watch my class.” McVay and Long look forward to helping other teachers at Trinity take advantage of this technology. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Bishop of Honduras Visits Holy Cross

On February 21, the students at Holy Cross Episcopal School were thrilled to have the Rt. Rev. Lloyd Allen, Bishop of Honduras, visit with them. He was joined by Bob Canter, who is heavily involved with mission work in Honduras. The Bishop spoke to Holy Cross students about the Episcopal Bilingual Schools in the Diocese of Honduras and shared information about his vocation and his country. Students at Holy Cross participate in Spanish class weekly and were able to share some of their Spanish with the Bishop. The students enjoyed learning about the culture, lifestyle and language of the people of Honduras. During the question and answer portion of the presentation, many of the students had questions about the different animals that can be seen in Honduras. They also found it very interesting that the bilingual schools in Honduras encourage their students to speak only in English while they are at school.

Catoma Learns From School Garden

Third-grade Catoma Elementary students in Mrs. Walker and Mr. Hale’s classes are studying how plants and vegetables grow. By working in the school’s raised bed garden, students have learned about seed germination and the development of mature plants and vegetables. They plan to donate the greens, broccoli, lettuce, sweet potatoes and cabbage to a local food pantry.

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On January 16, the ACA National Honor Society hosted a Red Cross blood drive and drew 127 units of blood. The donors were composed of students, grades 1012, teachers from both the elementary and secondary schools, administrators, family members, and friends. This year more than 30 family and friends participated, the best response in the history of the drive! The National Honor Society provided all the volunteer workers for the drive. Under the management and leadership of Haley Sullivan and Dalton Beasley, the students registered donors, served in the canteen, supervised hallways and sat in elementary and middle school classrooms so that teachers could donate. This effort provided students with adult responsibilities and the opportunity to service the community in a life-saving way.

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

EVANGEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

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C hallenging a CademiC a tmosphere in a C hristian e nvironment

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Accredited AISA Blue Ribbon School

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

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ACA Holds Successful School Blood Drive

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

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Ta Catholic’s Klinger Cast in ASF Production

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School student Matthew Klinger is currently cast as Jem in Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s production of To Kill a Mockingbird. The play ran March 8-24, as well as school fest performances and a few dates in May. It is double cast and there are six students from local schools in the production. Auditions were last fall and Klinger started rehearsals with his fellow cast mates in February. An old pro, Klinger began his acting career three years ago and has built quite a resume including local television commercials, Oliver! and Big River at Faulkner Dinner Theatre, as well as Fables Then and Now at Cloverdale Playhouse. ASF involvement includes Merry Wives of Windsor, ASF Academy, Capital City Players and Camp Shakespeare. Klinger can be seen next in his role in Cloverdale Playhouse’s Androcles and the Lion, May 3-5. Klinger is a sixth-grade honor student and student council vice president at Montgomery Catholic. He is the son of Ken and Kelley Klinger. He is shown at far left.

Success Unlimited Seniors Take Pride in Class T-Shirts Seniors at Success Unlimited Academy have been having a busy year. Events have been placed on the senior calendar that are making their year memorable. The seniors were able to vote on the T-shirt design completed by AKD Designs. As part of the fun, they were able to make it personal by writing their signatures on the SUA logo. When the shirts arrived on campus, the seniors immediately changed into their senior tees.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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STJ Middle Schoolers Tapped for Honor Society

Fifty-four middle school students were inducted into the Saint James chapter of the National Junior Honor Society on Feb. 27. Inductees, who have maintained a 3.5 or better cumulative GPA throughout middle school, were honored in a ceremony conducted for the entire middle school along with parents, grandparents and faculty members. In addition to excellent grades, Saint James Honor Society members must also complete two hours of community service as a requirement for membership. The new inductees joined 44 eighthgraders who became members last year. In all, the entire National Junior Honor Society membership represents 60 percent of the student population in Saint Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; seventh and eighth grades. After lighting candles to signify service, character, leadership and scholarship, NJHS president Colton Alter announced the new inductees in a roll call of honor while vice president Seth Meadows presented them with an honor society certificate. Other officers include secretary Henry Olree and treasurer Ian Tsekouras. The induction ceremony was followed by a reception in the Performing Arts Building for inductees and their parents. Saint James 2013 National Junior Honor Society inductees are Chandler Armagost, Nathan Ashner, Matthew Baggett, Sydney Bassett, Brandon Beasley, Tyler Beck, Sydney Brashears, Anna Claire Bullard, Jacob Cannon, Bin Cho, Jisu Choi, Caroline Christie, Denson Clark, Katie Cobb, Cade Crow, Hayden Cruse, Faulkner Cunningham, Molly Grace Denham, Abigail Engles, Declan Fitzpatrick, Adia Foster, William Graves, Claudia Hubbard, Maddy Grace Hunter, Whitman Kent, Chaeyun Kim, Edward Kim, Grace Kirkland, Audrey Larson, Jake Maddox, Katie McIntyre, Sailor Miles, Jack Mozingo, Colin Neal, Nathan Pohlman, Riley Pugh, Hawthorne Ramsey, JB Ramsey, Eric Rice, Ryan Roche, Stephen Sadie, Evian Salgado, Ella Skier, Annie Skoneki, Elliot Steinwinder, Coston Stricklin, Nathan Swanson, Fred Tippett, Harris Washington, Alex Wimpee, Megan Winn, Shaw Woodson, Cory Wright and Subin Youn. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Macon East Students Learn About Weather

ECA’s K5 Classes Celebrate ‘Pooh’ Day

The K4 and K5 kindergarten classes at Evangel Christian Academy recently celebrated a very special bear’s birthday. Winnie the Pooh turned one year older and the classes had a very special “Pooh Day” in honor of their favorite bear. For snack that day the students had special honey treats and sang Happy Birthday to the famous bear. The classes also enjoyed stories about their favorite bear and the movie “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.” The annual celebration centers around the birthday of A. A. Milne, the author and creator of Winnie the Pooh. The children were excited to learn that Christopher Robin was the real life son of A. A. Milne and that the characters in the Hundred Acre Woods were based on stuffed animals Christopher Robin owned. The stories about Pooh and his friends were based on bedtime stories Milne told his son. The students were excited to hear the stories and the teachers hope that the event will foster a love of reading.

Hooper Academy K3 Celebrates Dr. Seuss’s Birthday www.montgomeryparents.com

Macon East thirdgrade students were recently honored to have Josh Johnson from WSFA present a lesson on weather. Johnson gave an informative lecture on weather awareness and storms. Ann Ashley’s class is shown with Johnson.

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Highland Gardens Holds Read Across America

Principal Laura Adams and teachers and students at Highland Gardens Elementary held a Read Across America Kick-Off Celebration to motivate students to read over the coming weeks. Shown are: Principal Laura Adams, secondgrade teacher Danielle Hodge, first-grade teacher Monique Reese, first-grade teacher Grace Davis, and the Highland Gardens cheerleaders.

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Kerry Palmer Named Trinity Head of School

The Trinity Presbyterian School Board of Trustees announces that Kerry Palmer will assume the position of Head of School following the departure of Bob Neu at the end of the current school year. Palmer is currently serving in his fifth year as Trinity’s Middle School Principal. Palmer and his wife Robyn have two children, Lee Ann, 11, and Benton, 8. Both are students at Trinity. He is a 1995 graduate of Troy University, and received a Master of Education degree from Auburn University in Montgomery in 2003. Prior to Trinity, Palmer was Middle School vice principal at Montgomery Catholic School, with earlier teaching experience in public school systems in Montgomery, Tallassee, and Ashburn, Georgia. He is a Montgomery native, and is active in several civic organizations. He and his family are members of First Baptist Church in Montgomery, where he is very active in the music program. 40

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Montgomery Catholic Hires Two New Coaches

Montgomery Catholic has named Gregg Baker its new head football coach, while Laura Mackley has been named the new varsity volleyball coach beginning this summer. Baker has been the offensive coordinator at Charles Henderson High School in Troy, Alabama, this past season. The Trojans were 9-4 and made it to the Quarter-Finals of the AHSAA 4A State Playoffs. Before coaching at Charles Henderson, Baker was at Faulkner University where he served as Head Football Coach for three years and as an assistant coach in 2008. He began his coaching career at Trinity Presbyterian School. During his thirteen-year tenure, he served as offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator and junior high head coach. Following his stay at Trinity, Baker spent two years as the head coach at Georgia Washington Junior High School, compiling a 13-2 record and a

city championship. In 2002, Baker spent a year as the offensive coordinator at Jeff Davis High School, helping the Vols to a state runner-up season. In 2005, Baker spent a year as the offensive line coach at Prattville High School before being named head coach at Alabama Christian Academy in 2006. “There were countless hours put into finding the right coach for Montgomery Catholic. Gregg is a great fit, with experience at every level,” said Athletic Director Travis Jarome. “Gregg brings with him a great work ethic and success along every stop. He comes in with a strong plan for our football program, and we are looking forward to great things.” Baker holds a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University at Montgomery. He and his wife, Dana, have been married for 23 years and are lifelong Montgomery residents. Baker began his new position on March 18 and is already working with his athletes and organizing his coaching staff. Mackley comes to Montgomery Catholic from Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee, where she served as a graduate assistant for the volleyball program this past season. She was

also the head coach of the Phoenix Rising Volleyball Club (17 and under team) this past year. She is a graduate of Troy University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and physical science. She lettered in volleyball for four years at Troy under head coach Sonny Kirkpatrick. During all four years at Troy, Mackley coached club volleyball for Deep South Volleyball Club. “Laura comes to Montgomery Catholic with a great plan and aspirations of where she can take our volleyball program,” said Jarome. “She is a great addition to our staff, with coaching experience at the club level and in college. She learned from some of the best while playing at Troy and will use that experience as a collegiate player to elevate our volleyball program.” Mackley, who is originally from Centerburg Ohio, will begin her coaching responsibilities at Montgomery Catholic in May.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Macon East Students Study Community Helpers

K3 students at Macon East Academy enjoyed learning about different community helpers and the value of these workers in the community. They celebrated what they learned by dressing up like their favorite community helper. Debbie Millsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; K3 community helpers are shown.

WSFA Anchor Visits Flowers Elementary

WSFA anchor Mark Bullock recently visited second-grade students at Flowers Elementary to talk about the importance of reading before the official launch of Read Across America Week.

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

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for learning literacy, math, reasoning skills and the arts. Students in elementary grades learn differently. We have designed our curriculum to compliment these differences. Students must master the core academic skills during their elementary years.

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It is hard to believe that it is already April! Where did this school year go? Autauga County public schools observed spring break March 25 through 29. It was a much needed break for our students and teachers. They have been hard at work since January 3rd. On September 10, 2009, the State Board of Education voted unanimously on a resolution to phase out the Alabama High School Graduation Exam. Systems were notified that first-time ninth graders of 2011-2012 would be the last cohort required to pass the AHSGE in order to receive a diploma. As a result, we will not administer End of the Course Tests specifically aligned to our instructional content in the areas of English 9 and 10, Algebra 1, and Geometry.

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Developed by ACT, these assessments will provide necessary information to better ensure our graduates are prepared for the workforce, technical schools, and two and four-year colleges. Tests will be administered in the four subject areas during the week of April 29, 2013, and results will be disseminated to parents prior to the end of the school year. Teachers and administrators will use test results to make informed decisions regarding instruction and student learning. We are excited about this new direction and these instructional strategies and anticipate using both as a means of achieving our goal of Every Student a Graduate; Every Graduate a Success. In my opinion academic achievement and student safety are the two most important aspects of our childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s educational experience. In response to recent events, we have increased our emphasis on school safety. First, I have directed all school principals to conduct a complete analysis of their school safety plans. Principals have discovered ways to improve student

safety and identify areas of weaknesses. Secondly, we have established a safety committee, chaired by Angel Garrett, director of student services, to study where we want Autauga County Schools to go in this area. In addition we are working with the Autauga County Sherriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department and the Autauga Emergency Management Association to conduct active shooter drills. We have been planning our first training exercise for weeks and conducted an exercise during spring break. Our ultimate goal is to have the safest schools possible and be prepared for any emergency. Our plans include increased safety training for all school personnel and students in order to maintain the high safety standards expected by our community supporters. 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.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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EMCA Student Wins At District Science Fair

East Memorial Christian Academy sixthgrader Mary Frances Brace recently won first place at the District Science Fair.

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Prattville Bands Perform at State Music Assessment

All three concert ensembles from Prattville High School performed well at the State Music Performance Assessment February 23 in Tuscaloosa. The Concert Band received an overall Superior Rating (in their first year at assessment) and the Symphonic Band and Wind Symphony each received the highest rating possible – Superior with Distinction! The Symphonic Band is shown above.

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

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Prattville Participates in Empty Bowl Project

PHS Administrator Celebrates Dr. Seuss

Read Across America isn’t just for elementary students. Prattville High School Assistant Principal Jack Tracy celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday in style with his favorite character, the Lorax. Thanks to the administration, students still get involved with reading activities, even at the secondary level. Tracy is shown with junior Matthew Jackson and senior Haleigh Gray.

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Each year, Mrs. Britan’s three-dimensional design students at Prattville High School design and create ceramic soup bowls whose shapes convey a message about feeding hungry people. The bowls are then used as a part of the Empty Bowl Project, an annual fundraiser for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Montgomery potter, Margaret Barber, has organized the event for several years through The Church of the Holy Spirit in Montgomery. Event attendees pay $25 to come and choose a unique bowl from those donated by students and professional potters. They enjoy a meal of soup, bread, and dessert. Then they take the empty bowl home to keep as a reminder of all of the people who don’t have enough to eat. All proceeds go to the Montgomery Area Food Bank. For the past several years, Prattville High’s 3-D students have not only made and donated their bowls, they have also attended the event to help serve the food and clean up afterwards. Some of the students get a chance to meet and speak with the people who choose their bowls. In past years, enough money has been raised to purchase about 30,000 pounds of food per year.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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EMCA Basketball Team Named State Champs

East Memorial Christian Academy’s boys’ varsity basketball team became 2013 AISA Class AA State Champions. Chandler Warren and James Pope were named to the AllTournament Team and Jaylen McCoy was awarded the Tournament’s MVP. Pope will play in the AISA All-Stars game and EMCA Coach Scott Phillips will be coaching.

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Prattville High Speech and Debate Wins Major Southeastern Tournament

The Prattville High School Speech and Debate team competed January 11-12 at the Hall of Fame tournament hosted by the Alabama Forensic Council at the University of Alabama. Prattville, the 2011 defending champions of the tournament, once again brought home the Overall First Place Sweepstakes trophy. Battling against 18 other schools from across the Southeast including six of the top teams from Tennessee, Prattville brought home more than 15 individual trophies. Individual champions from the tournament are Garrett Wilson in Dramatic Interpretation, Blake Sowers in Original Oratory and Andrew Edwards in Prose Interpretation and Poetry Interpretation. Troy Ferguson was recognized as a top speaker in LincolnDouglas Debate and Charlotte Boles was recognized as a top speaker in Public Forum Debate. Additionally, after competing against more than 150 other students, Edwards received the Top Individual Competitor Award and was offered a full tuition scholarship to attend the University of Alabama as a member of the university’s awardwinning speech team. The Prattville High team has been undefeated in tournaments from the past two years. The team is coached by Katy Olienyk. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Students in Ms. Libby Bruce’s advanced English classes were delighted when they received personal correspondence from a famous poet. The project started after the students studied a poem, “Valentine for Ernest Mann” by Naomi Shihab Nye. “Basically, the poet (Naomi Nye) is telling Ernest Mann that writing poetry is a time-consuming process, but finding inspiration for writing poetry is simple: just re-invent how you look at ordinary life,” explained Bruce. She then sent her students home with a weekend assignment: find something ordinary, even ugly, and change the way you perceive it. Write a paragraph describing the object, and explain how it could be used as a source of inspiration for a lyric poem. “My students always amaze me with their originality and depth of understanding, but these writings were unusually good so I found Ms. Nye’s address on the Internet and mailed their paragraphs, along with a letter explaining the connection to her poem,” Bruce said. “Not only did she take the time to respond, but she also singled out several students and commented on their paragraphs. Who knows? Maybe one of them will become a famous writer.” Students singled out by famous poet Naomi Nye for their writing talents are shown with their teacher, Ms. Bruce: Kendall Davis, Philip Dorning, Christian Chapman, Molly Kopf, Nicolette Juby and Caitlyn Morris.

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

P Second Chance Students Take College Tours

The students at the Second Chance Program in Autauga County went on the school’s first college visits February 28. The students visited Auburn University in Montgomery, Alabama State University, and Trenholm Technical College. The students received information about admissions, financial aid, scholarship opportunities, and career choices. “We are committed to exposing our students to as much as possible during the time we have them,” said Principal Anthony Brock. “I am blessed to have the opportunity to work in such a great county and have a superintendent like Spence Agee who is all about the students’ success.”

PCA Student Qualifies for ‘National Geographic’ State Bee Prattville Christian Academy seventhgrader Christopher Lough has qualified to compete in the state National Geographic Bee for the second year in a row. Lough was PCA’s firstplace winner, and he was selected to compete in the state bee after taking a qualifying test. The bee will take place on April 5 at Samford University. Last year, Lough won third place at the state level competition.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

April 19–MAy 19 The Ultimate Amazing Race!

Prattville High Students Compete in Model United Nations

Prattville High School students participated in the Model United Nations (MUN) conference at the University of Alabama. MUN is an academic simulation of the working of the United Nations and aims to educate participants about current events, international relations, diplomacy and the mechanics of a United Nations committee. During a conference, participants are provided issue topics and assume roles as diplomats for a particular country. They research their country, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate and develop solutions to world problems. The student diplomats must use their communication and critical thinking skills to reflect the policies of the country they represent. Meetings are run using parliamentary procedures and often employ a crisis situation that can span all the committees in the conference. This year’s crisis involved a zombie apocalypse which threatened to spread worldwide. Committee members were charged with determining ways to isolate the disease and prevent it from spreading. In addition to learning about their country, participants write position papers on the various issues providing insight into the policies of their country as well as proposals on ways to address the issue. Following the conclusion of the sessions, the host committee chairs recommend delegates for awards based on set standards. These standards include advocating for a given country in a manner consistent with the country’s policies and constraints, committee participation, and adherence to rules of procedure. Three students were recognized in this competition: Andrew McMillan received an Honorable Mention, Ken Levens was named Outstanding Delegate and William Mitchell took top honors in his committee. He was named Best Delegate and awarded the committee gavel. Front row from left are members of the PHS MUN Team: Lauren Lewis, Amanda Stout, Allie Wright, Moira Offord, Kristen Faulkner, Cara Bolt, Andrew McMillan, Jared Killough; and back row, Daniel Schmidt, Jackson Smith, Nic Colvin, Jacob Abraham, Justin Simmons, Clark Rice, Robert Furlong, Stephen Ingram, James Able, Brandon Proper, John Spears, William Mitchell, Chance Smith, John Mitchell, Mitchell Colvin, Ken Levens and Casey Clark. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

April 18–MAy 19

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After a long journey, our school district recently received the good news we were hoping to hear! At a special called board meeting, representatives of AdvancED informed us that they would recommend our system’s reaccreditation as a quality

school district. I would like to take this opportunity to say a great big THANK YOU to all administrators, central office staff, board members, teachers, support staff, students, parents and community members for contributing to a successful accreditation review. We are fortunate to have such wonderful people in our “Elmore County Family” to fulfill the vision and mission of our school system. This process was indeed a lengthy one. Our district spent 18 months working on an internal review.

During the actual team visit, AdvancED representatives conducted interviews with various system employees, made site visits to campuses across the county and reviewed the system’s reports and documentation over a three-day period. The culmination of those efforts was the preliminary report shared at the special board meeting before the team’s departure. We are so proud of the NOTABLE PRACTICES that were recognized by the visiting team in our district. Those practices are as follows: 1. The district leadership and staff at all levels of the system is committed to a targeted focus on teaching and learning that provides challenging, equitable educational programs and learning experiences for all students, and that emphasizes achievement of learning, thinking, and life skills. 2. Leadership at all levels of the system is committed to a continuous improvement process that provides clear direction for improving conditions that support student learning. 3. Curriculum, instruction, and assessment throughout the system are monitored and adjusted systematically based upon an examination of professional practice.

4. Teachers and support staff are passionate and committed to the welfare and success of all students. In short, the visiting team overall gave an enthusiastic “thumbs up” to our district. We are especially thrilled that the team recommended only one required action for us. The required action is as follows: Develop/devise, implement, and monitor a repertoire of instructional strategies that are student-centered, and that are content and age-appropriate. In other words, we need to continue to find ways to teach that grab the attention and ignite the enthusiasm of our diverse learners. How thrilling to hear these final words from the visiting team: “The external review team recommends that Elmore County Schools be accredited, pending further review and final action by the AdvancED Accreditation Commission.” Thank you Elmore County School Family for a job well done!

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Dr. Jeff Langham is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. Now in his eighth year as the system’s leader, he has a total of 27 years of experience in the field of education. Langham is an active member at Landmark Church in Montgomery. He and his wife, Ginny, a nurse educator, have one daughter, Weldon.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Holtville Writers Win Young Author Contest

In the kindergarten through eighth grade competition for the Elmore County Reading Council’s (ECRC) Young Author Contest, Holtville Elementary School claimed two firstplace awards. In the first- through second-grade division, Mrs. Quates’s second-grader Trip Newbrough was the winner. Fourth-grader Brady Motes of Mrs. Lacsamana’s class was victorious in the third- and fourth-grade division. To celebrate their accomplishments, Newbrough and Motes, along with the other winners throughout the county, were honored at the ECRC meeting held on March 14. The young authors read their winning compositions to the audience of ECRC members, teachers, and parents. Elmore County Superintendent Dr. Jeffery Langham presented a certificate, trophy and dictionary to each winner. Holtville Elementary Assistant Principal Chris Holley with Motes and Newbrough.

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Edgewood Junior Reads Dr. Seuss to Preschoolers

Edgewood Academy junior Hayden Richards read the Dr. Seuss book Sneetches – What Was I Scared of? to Edgewood’s K3 class during Read Across America Week.

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Edgewood Students Visit Local Hospital

Wetumpka Middle Students Chosen for Honor Band

Edgewood Academy firstgraders attended “ Let’s Pretend Hospital” in Montgomery recently.

Wetumpka Middle School band students Carli McCord, Carson Turner and Ryan Williams were selected to participate in the Alabama Bandmaster’s District VI Middle School Honor Band. The students were selected through a rigorous audition process. They were among hundreds of middle school students across east central Alabama to audition for a seat in the honor band. The students traveled to Auburn High School February 22-23 to rehearse and perform in the honor band under the direction of guest conductor Chris Cooper. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Holtville Senior Makes Wrestling History

Hunter Scott made Holtville High School history at State Wrestling Tournament in Huntsville recently. Scott is a tenth-grade honor student at Holtville High and was one of two wrestlers in 1A-4A finishing the 2012-2013 championship season undefeated.

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M Holtville DECA Chapter Wins Big at District and State

Holtville High School students recently competed in DECA’s South Region Competitive Events. DECA is the business/marketing student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. Students completed 100-question multiple choice exams focused on content areas in marketing, finance, business law and ethics, and hospitality and management. Because of their ranking at District Level, the students then advanced to State Competition that was held in Birmingham February 14 and 15. Students competed with other students across the state in those same competitive events. They had to complete another written test as well as a role-play simulation in front of judges from the business sector. Eight of the students from the Holtville DECA chapter placed in the top three rankings from the state, and now have the opportunity to attend National Competitions in Anaheim, California in April. If you, or your business, would like to donate money to help offset the expenses of this trip, please contact Kim Miller, DECA sponsor at Holtville High School. From left are Skylar Bass, Clint Edwards, Brandi Shines, Corey McCullers, Megan Edwards, Tanner Nelson, Ashley Wiggins, Ondrej Hubalek and Haley Starr

Redland Executes Successful Read Across America

On March 4, Redland Elementary School launched a week-long celebration of Read Across America by transforming the library into the Eagle’s Nest Café. Students in grades K-2 came to the café in small groups to be read books from a menu of choices. The students were seated by waiters (student helpers) and given a menu of reading themes to choose from including appetizers and main courses. Children were read to by adult volunteers who included parents and community members. A total of 32 adult volunteers helped to make the day a great success. Each child received Goldfish crackers and water before departing the café with a joy for reading. The week continued with celebrity readers visiting on March 6. Josh Johnson, Kim Hendrix, Mo from the Montgomery Biscuits and the Kool 95.5 Crash and the Morning Drive team were just some of the celebrities who showed their love of reading. The week ended with a character parade. Students marched through the school as a character from their favorite book. Additional activities during the week included daily dress-up days, door decoration contests, readers’ theater, and activities with favorite Seuss books. First-grade teachers are shown dressed as some of their favorite characters. www.montgomeryparents.com

Motivational Speaker Visits Airport Road

Mike Hagen’s Strength Team visited Airport Road Intermediate School and performed feats of strength that amazed the third- and fourth-graders recently. Hagen and Clarence Lee, both former professional football players, took turns breaking a baseball bat, crushing cans of carbonated sodas, and tearing phone books. However, the most crowd-pleasing feat was lifting two students off the ground as they held an iron rod. Later, Lee bent that iron rod in half. All of these dazzling achievements were an introduction to Hagen encouraging the students to make good school choices, to respect their teachers and get an education. His last message was for students to hold on to their dreams without illegal drugs, especially steroids. Clarence Lee, a former FSU football player, is shown lifting two students.

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Wetumpka Rewards Positive Behavior

For the third nine weeks, the students at Wetumpka Elementary with good behavior were able to attend “Drive-In at the Movies.” As a part of the school’s Positive Behavior System, the students got popcorn and juice and placed an “Admit One” ticket in the box for a drawing. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Millbrook Middle Names January’s Bucket Fillers

Millbrook Middle School is continuing its character development program called “Bucket Filling.” Everyone carries an invisible bucket that holds good thoughts and feelings. When a student’s bucket is full, he feels happy and when his bucket is empty, he feels sad. Throughout the school year, teachers are encouraging, reminding, and recognizing everyone’s efforts to be bucket fillers at school. Back row from left are: Simon Wilson, Taylor Jackson, Thomas Killingsworth, Gregory Agee, Will Allen and Trent Rivenbark; front row: Makayla Groulx, Hannah Pate, Zayda Faraj, Taylor Roland and Scarlet Lankford. The homeroom winner for the fifth grade was Mrs. Hicks’s room with 352 bucket tickets.

Coosada Participates in Read Across America

Coosada Elementary School held its Read Across America Parade on March 8. Children dressed up like their favorite Dr. Seuss characters and paraded around the school for their classmates and parents. It was a fun day celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday.

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P Edgewood Students Participate in Blood Drive

ECHS Names March Students of the Month

These are the March Students of the Month at Elmore County High School: David Bullock, Kaitlyn Clark, Bridge Wynn, Cassidy Cannon, Jake Walker and Rebecca Wilson.

On February 27, thirty-six students and faculty at Edgewood Academy volunteered to participate in the LifeSouth Blood Drive. Potentially, 108 lives could be changed from a small sacrifice on behalf of many. Some students entered the bloodmobile with sweaty palms and nervous laughter, but after realizing the impact they were making in others’ lives, they left with confidence and even excited smiles. “It was my first time giving blood,” said Cara Borowski, a sophomore from Prattville. “It was really interesting seeing how everything worked. It was also really cool how I felt afterward because even though it stung a little, I feel really blessed to have been able to be a part of it and potentially have saved lives.”

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WES Teachers Dress Up During Dr. Seuss Week

Wetumpka Elementary teachers dressed as book characters during Read Across America Week.

Millbrook Middle Names February’s Bucket Fillers

Millbrook Middle School is continuing its character development program called “Bucket Filling.” Everyone carries an invisible bucket that holds good thoughts and feelings. When a student’s bucket is full, he feels happy and when his bucket is empty, he feels sad. Throughout the school year, teachers are encouraging, reminding, and recognizing everyone’s efforts to be bucket fillers at school. Back row from left are: Anthony Howard, Keaundre Williams, Gage Swindal and Kendarious Collins; front row are: Tyler Wilson, Aribella Ledesma, Marissa McKay, Destiny Ingram, Taylor Roland and Jaylin Knight. The homeroom winner for the fifth grade was Mrs. Peterson’s room with 314 bucket tickets.

Send Your School News each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Wetumpka Middle Presents ‘Seussical Jr.’

Wetumpka Middle School’s Drama Club will present Seussical Jr. Saturday, April 13; Friday, April 19; and Saturday, April 20 at 7 p.m. at the Wetumpka Performing Arts Center (WPAC), 409 North Alabama Street. “Oh, the thinks you can think” when Dr. Seuss’s best-known tales and colorful characters meet in this flamboyant musical. Adapted through Music Theatre International, the Broadway Junior version features 32 songs to captivate audiences young and young at heart. The stories and characters intertwine to teach respect, love and the importance of imagination and staying true to oneself. The show is ideal for all ages since it is an abbreviated musical with many familiar characters and upbeat songs. General admission tickets are available at the door before all performances. Tickets are $5. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call (334) 5671413 or e-mail: stacy.chancellor@elmore. k12.al.us or ashley.wallsmith@elmore. k12.al.us

Holtville Enjoys ‘Hopping on Pop’

Holtville Elementary School students celebrated the final day of “Read Across America Week” by wearing neckties as an ode to the Dr. Seuss story “Hop on Pop.” Shown with Assistant Principal Chris Holley and Principal Kathy Terrell, two fourth-graders in Mrs. Lacsamana’s class, Cade and Ryan, chose to wear a white button-down shirt to accompany their ties.

Big Mo Visits Redland During Read Across America Montgomery Biscuits mascot Big Mo came to visit the Redland Elementary kindergarten classes for part of Read Across America week! Shown is Stacey Turner’s class.

Holtville Middle Implements Junior Gardener Program

Holtville Middle School implemented the Junior Master Gardener program during the 2012-2013 school year. Junior Master Gardener is a new and innovative 4-H youth gardening project modeled under the highly popular Master Gardener Program. This program offers horticulture and environmental education through fun and creative activities. Thanks to donations from 4-H, Master Gardener, and Wal-Mart, Holtville Middle was able to purchase a greenhouse for the school grounds. Students meet after school with community volunteers to develop gardening techniques. Currently, 68 HMS students participate in this program. Eighth-grade science teacher Mallory Harp serves as the sponsor for this program.

WES Teacher Named Elmore County Teacher of the Year Wetumpka Elementary School secondgrade teacher Taryn Brodie has been named “Teacher of the Year” for Elmore County. Brodie is a graduate of Faulkner University and has been teaching at WES for nine years. She is shown with her plaque and WES Principal Jina Sanders. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Great Expectations! by Marla Cilley

With our personalities we often expect the worst. Here’s an example... Someone in your family did not call you when you thought they were supposed to. You immediately start thinking of everything bad that could have happened to them. You work yourself into a tizzy, and when they eventually call, you find out they just forgot. All the while you are upset; your adrenalin is pumping and you can’t settle down. We have set ourselves up for this by allowing our minds to run rampant thinking the worst. Did you know that we can do just the opposite of this and set ourselves up for more disappointment? This is when our imagination takes a simple event we are going to attend and makes it much more glamorous and special than it really is. A holiday is a perfect example. We spend hours dreaming of

how wonderful it is going to be only to be disappointed by its inability to live up to our expectations. Our wedding day can do that to us, too. We expect that this is going to be the greatest day of our lives, and if that were to happen what would that say for the rest of our marriage? Our imaginations cause us to live in a fairy tale where everything works out, but then when it doesn’t occur the way we have imagined we are devastated. This devastation is caused by our perfectionism. Expectations that no one or any event can live up to only come true in fairy tales. I am trying to figure out why we do this to ourselves. It is one thing to have hope, but it is an entirely different thing to exaggerate or project an outcome on people’s reactions when we cannot read their minds and we don’t have a magic wand. This type of perfectionism is all about control. We want to be the director of the play we have staged in our heads. We want everything to go just as we have planned. Then when it doesn’t go just the way we imagined we lash out at the people who didn’t play their parts well. If for some reason you don’t say what is on your mind

then you take it to your bed and complete the process of closing out the real world more than you already have. We have to catch our brains before they plot and scheme to destroy our peace. Don’t allow yourself to project unrealistic outcomes. Be happy with what is. Don’t make things worse than they really are or set your expectations so high that nothing can ever live up to them. Setting the bar of expectation so high that no one will ever be able to reach it only allows you to always be the victim and martyr. In your own mind you believe that others really did let you down which makes you right in your feelings of being victimized. You are only a victim of your own thoughts. Be happy with what is and enjoy the process. Don’t allow your perfectionism to ruin another event in your life. Are you ready to FLY by living your life instead of wasting away in the pages a fairy tale? For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, see her website and join her free mentoring group at www. FlyLady.net. Also check out her books, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2013 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

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AUM’s Camp CEO Gives Teens a Taste of College

AUM’s Division of Continuing Education and School of Business will host a new residential summer camp focused on business leadership June 16-21: Camp CEO. The camp will give teens a sneak peek into what college life is like. They will make new friends and get a chance to decide if business is the right major for them when they enroll in college. Attendees will: • Experience what it is like to be on a college campus • Meet local business leaders • Receive instruction from the AUM School of Business • Gain business etiquette training • Improve communication and leadership skills • Discover the components of a successful business model and what it takes to be successful in business • Work with peers from across the state • Enjoy group work and team building activities • Have Fun! Activities include: • Attend a city council meeting • Work with city officials on city planning • Tour the new and old Montgomery • Business etiquette training dinner at The Capitol City Club • Work out and swim in AUM’s Wellness Center • Game night in Warhawk Alley • Cookout and Scavenger Hunt in the Grove This is a week-long residential camp on AUM’s campus. Check-in is Sunday, June 16, at 3 p.m. Camp ends after lunch (1 p.m.) on Friday, June 21. $495 fee includes meals, housing, activities, materials and field trips.

Family Karate Center News

The Family Karate Center’s students ages 2-18 took Master Carole Smith’s latest “All A Outstanding Academic Achievement Challenge” very seriously! The center’s children had reached their A-B goal on elementary school report cards, but not all junior high and high school students had reported in at 100% A-B levels. Smith told the children that if they received 100% A-B report cards, there would be a water slide/pizza party for all karate kids and parents! “There has been a HUGE increase in All A report cards since I asked the students to take this Outstanding Academic Challenge,” said Master Smith, the center’s chief instructor. “We have a study center here in our karate school that lets students finish their homework while waiting for their next class. Our karate moms have all come on board to help tutor any child that has a scholastic need here at Family Karate Center.” For more information, call Master Carole Smith at 4675762. The Family Karate Center is located at 8159 Vaughn Rd, in Peppertree Shopping Center near Chappy’s Deli and Jalapeno’s. Shown, Family Karate Center students enjoy a pizza party to celebrate all A report cards since taking the Family Karate Center All A Challenge. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Grow With It! How to THRIVE at Each Stage of Motherhood

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by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

When you’re pregnant, nine months feels like an insanely long time. The joy of knowing you have a new life inside you intensifies as the baby grows and kicks and hiccups. Along with the wait comes the worry. Each twinge and tickle makes you wonder if something is wrong. You just want to gaze into your baby’s eyes, count his toes, and know that everything is alright. Each stage of motherhood brings joys and challenges. Moms who thrive approach the process with openness, patience, and a sense of humor. Motherhood is a wild, wild ride. Just grow with it. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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The Early Years: Can’t See the Forest for the Laundry

“Nothing beats super sloppy baby kisses,” says Kris Koenig, mother of five girls age five to fifteen. Snuggling your baby, smelling her hair and watching her fall asleep in your arms is amazing. “I also loved nursing my kids. It made me feel like I was giving them something special that they couldn’t get anywhere else,” says Mary Miller, mother of two. Fun firsts like smiling, walking, and talking make every mom swoon. Mountains of laundry and epic exhaustion are not-so-happy facts of life in this stage. Remember: sleep deprivation is used to torture prisoners of war. “I once went to the grocery store with my shirt on inside out,” Koenig recalls. “It was nice of my 3-yearold to tell me when we got home.” Temper tantrums, potty training, and limit-testing can try the patience of any mom. A willingness to be present is key, says Cathy Cassani Adams, Parent Coach and author of The Self-Aware Parent: 19 Lessons for Growing with Your Children. “Life with small children can be repetitious, even boring. There is a lot of watching and waiting and worrying.” Trust your own instincts. Being a new mom is daunting and there is no manual. You don’t really know what’s “right” or “wrong.” You have to figure it out. “Everyone wants to tell you the best way, but their approaches may not work for you,” says Miller.

The School Years: Homework and Carpool, Oh My!

Watching your child become independent is truly a joy, says Koenig. “Each year on the first day of school I shed a few tears, but they are happy tears because each year brings new experiences and knowledge.” Your kids will choose their own friends and make decisions without you. But they’re not grown up yet. “My kids still like me to lie with them at night and tuck them in,” says Miller. “I treasure that. My son claims he’s too old to hold hands in public, so I sneak in hugs on the sly.” Letting go of control is challenging. Kids spend much of their day in school and you can’t take up residence in the adjacent desk. Bullying is a real threat, and kids aren’t always aware of the physical or social dangers they face. It’s hard not knowing who is doing what to my child when they’re not with me, Koenig says. You can’t protect them 24/7. Good communication is a must. “Listen to your kids, be curious and ask questions,” Adams advises. You may be spending less time together, but stay tuned in to their interests. While you’re at it, nurture interests of your own. “Put yourself on the list,” says Adams. If you don’t spend time alone, you Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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won’t know who you are anymore. Set a good example and pursue passions of your own.

Teens and Beyond: Up, Up and Away

“It fills my heart with great pride to see what an amazing person my teen is becoming,” Koenig enthuses. It’s gratifying to see the results of your earlier teachings: kindness, respect, creativity, and achievement. Missie Ellis, mom to two twentysomethings enjoys their holiday homecoming. “I love to listen to them interact with one another because despite the sibling rivalries they had growing up, their bond of brotherly love is very apparent.” As much as you’d like to chart their life’s course for them, your kids will follow their own paths. Let them tell you who they are rather than telling them who to be. If you’re lucky, they’ll hire you on as a consultant. Knowing when to step forward and when to pull back is challenging, says Susan Mather, mom to two adults. They may suffer big setbacks, like job loss and divorce. “Talk to your grown kids about your feelings and your mistakes; be real and be human,” says Adams. By doing so, you let them know what they are feeling is normal. Support them, but don’t ask them to bear your burdens. “There is a void I feel without my kids around me,” says Ellis. “I’m not sure when – or if – that will end.” If you feel lonely, lean on friends your own age. Rekindle romance with your partner. Rediscover what fulfills you as a person.

Lovin’ Every Minute of It

When challenges overwhelm, it’s natural to wish your kids were at a different stage of development. And we usually love the stage that plays to our strengths. You may feel comfortable dealing with your kids as babies but fear the terrible twos (and threes). Or you may wish that your kids would grow up overnight so you could communicate more rationally, on an adult level. When that happens, reflect on the joys of today. “It’s challenging! My 7-year-old is very strong-willed. But when she curls up with me while we read Fancy Nancy, I realize that those tough moments will pass,” says Miller. Anticipate the joys to come, too. Susan Mather, a mom to two adults, loves being able to help her grown kids and to rely on them when she needs help. “I am looking forward to becoming a grandma in June and hope to be the primary babysitter for the first year,” she says. “After that I will probably not be able to keep up!” mp Heidi Smith Luedtke is a psychologist and author of Detachment Parenting. She is constantly grateful for the lessons she learns from her kids. Read more at www.HeidiLuedtke.com

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Dollhouses remain one of the most popular toys for kids as they offer a distinct setting for children to create a familiar world of their own! Pretend-play becomes more engrossing for kids when their dolls and figures inhabit rooms like those in their daily world. They begin to act out real world situations, real home life interactions as they play, developing a stronger understanding of roles, relationships and responsibilties in the family. You don’t need a realtor to find the best home for your child’s dolls; just take the following home tour to see what’s on the market and find the best fit for your child and their small friends.

by Paige Gardner Smith

Imaginarium Wooden Corner Dollhouse

Ryan’s Room Carry & Go Dollhouse

Making the best use of space makes sense for homeowners…of all sizes! Designed to nestle into any cozy corner of any room in the house, the Imaginarium dollhouse offers a broader room opening for engaging play than many other traditional “box” houses. With three living levels (and an attic), there’s plenty of room for a doll family to grow. Equipped with nine furniture items, the room sizes accommodate most “fashion” dolls in the 9” to 12” range (dolls not included). The built-in stairs are also a nice detail. Its solid wood construction is a plus for durability, especially if it relocates in various corners over time. The pastel colors and charming graphics are highlights that brighten up any previously unused corner for pretend-play!

For the dollhouse aficionado on-the-go, the Ryan’s Room Carry & Go combines sturdy construction with portability so doll play can happen anywhere! Whether the homeowner is traveling to a friend’s home, visiting a grandparent’s house or passing the night in a hotel room, this dollhouse folds up easy with its contents and goes right along. The magnetic closure keeps it together until it’s time to come out and play. The house comes with 11 accessory/furniture items and the room size works with various manufacturers’ wooden dolls (Melissa & Doug, Calico Critters, etc.) One big attraction of this dollhouse is actually its simplicity. With limited decoration and only a splash of pink, this is just the kind of toy that entertains girls AND boys for a broader circle of pretend play.

Fisher-Price Loving Family Dollhouse

Haba Fabric Doll House

One of the most enduring dollhouse brands is the Fisher-Price Loving Family dollhouse. There are several good reasons this is a go-to choice for many dollhouse shoppers. With big rooms and plenty of Victorian details and embellishments there is always something new to discover and explore in the house. As part of a long-lived line of products there’s a broad range of additional accessories, vehicles and lots of furniture for an aspiring interior decorator to add along the way. Additionally, dolls are available in various ethnicities beyond Caucasian including Asian, Hispanic and African-American. Family groups are also extended to include grandparent/elder figures to expand realistic pretend-play. The Loving Family Dollhouse folds up for storage, but this is a house that tends to stay open for living – and playing – 24 hours!

Taking the edge off the traditional doll house, Haba offers a soft-side fabric alternative to plastic and wood. The Haba house benefits from its European aesthetics offering clean lines, simple style and functional design. It also folds up for easy portability, carrying dolls (not included) and its soft accessories include a sleeping bag, pillow and chair. The Haba dollhouse makes a fantastic “first” home for toddlers with its fabric edge, while remaining versatile enough to grow with a child as their pretend-play evolves.

(Imaginarium)

(Ryan’s Room)

(Fisher-Price)

(Haba)

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

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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QUALITY Childcare

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What Should You Look For? by Brenda Nixon, M.A.

I’ve been a full-time, stay-at-home mom (SAHM), a stay-at-home mom with a home business, and the parent with outside employment. The most exhausting – and often the loneliest – was the first. Yet, I embraced it, read parenting books, scanned the latest research, and worked on a healthy relationship with my daughter. For me, it was – still is – important to be as conscientious about parenting as any other career! www.montgomeryparents.com

But, there came a time when family finances demanded I earn income in the labor force. So before my employment, I sought out quality childcare for our precious daughter. The better the childcare, the more I could relax, and the better off my child would be in many ways. Childcare is becoming a critical issue for parents as 64 percent of mothers work outside the home while only two percent of employers offer on-site daycare centers. A 2000 Census Bureau report shows more 62

mothers are returning to the labor force within a year of giving birth. As a result, over half the babies under a year of age are being cared for on a routine basis by someone other than Mom. If you’re in the “market” for quality childcare, shop around as carefully as you would for any other major investment. From safety and setting to staff and story time, know the key elements of quality care. Be an educated consumer on behalf of your most valuable possession. If you already Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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have a childcare arrangement, match it against these criteria. Look for a center or private home where: • It’s generally clean, well lit, and ventilated. You could find the play area cluttered with toys but it should still look and smell clean. A well-lighted play area promotes your youngster’s hand-eye skill. Good ventilation prevents recycling the same old germs. • It is a safe environment. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) in Washington, D.C. suggests that staff should be well versed in health and safety procedures, and be able to describe the policy for handling emergencies. In a safe environment, children will be under adult supervision at all times. • Parents feel comfortable asking questions. If you ask several questions and the caregivers seem offended or avoid your inquisition, leave! When they are knowledgeable and proud of the facility they will be eager to offer information. • Parents are told to drop in anytime. You want to make sure that caregivers welcome parents for lunch, special activities, or just to observe. • Parenting literature and child development resources are available. You want your tot in an environment where parent education and professional growth are encouraged. Great minds are always learning. • Toys and play equipment are child sized, age-appropriate, and regularly maintained and cleaned. • The program focuses equally on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. According to the NAEYC website (www.naeyc.org), “High quality early childhood programs do much more than help children learn numbers, shapes, and colors. Good programs help children learn how to learn: to question why and discover alternative answers; to get along with others; and to use their developing language, thinking, and motor skills.” • Pictures and room decor are down on the child’s eye level. Remember this is a place for children, not adults. • Adult turnover is low. A steady stream of new caregivers is disturbing to young children. It may signal to you that a relationship problem exists between staff and the director, a problem that trickles down to your child. • Children are touched appropriately, frequently, and in positive, affirming ways. Children need to be touched, even if Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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it’s a pat on the back, or holding hands during games. • Each child is addressed by name. There should be minimal use of group terms like “the infants,” “babies,” or “kids.” • Caregivers receive training in early childhood education. They should participate in continuing education every year, meet regularly to plan, and evaluate the program. • There’s low adult/child ratio. The NAEYC recommends at least one caregiver for every four infants (up to 12 months old) or a 1:4 ratio; 1:5 for toddlers (13 to 24 months); 1:6 for 2- and 3-year-olds; and about 1:9 for preschoolers. Small groups of children with adults promote more positive interactions and individualized curriculum. • Childrearing and discipline philosophies are similar to your own. You want leave your child in an environment consistent with your home discipline. Ask “what if” questions to be sure. • Sign-in and -out policies are enforced. Especially if you leave your little one in a large center with lots of foot traffic, security precautions are a must. • It’s either certified or licensed by your state. Certification and/or licensure gives you a minimum health, safety, and nutritional standard – not a guarantee it’s the right place for your child. I’ve known some licensed facilities where I wouldn’t leave my dog. Neither does certification or licensure limit curriculum; church-run facilities can be licensed and still teach religious curriculum. A word to the wise: Be wary of the caregiver with the “Honey, I’ve been tendin’ kids for 20 years an’ I know all there is to raisin’ babies!” attitude. A caregiver worth his or her salt – and your money – needs to learn about your child and continually sharpen caregiving skills. Finally, check with your local heath department and Better Business Bureau to see if the facility you’re considering has a record of complaints. Remember knowledge is power. Research shows that parents have an important influence on their child’s development, regardless of how much out-of-home care the child receives. Whether you are at home or work outside the home, you are still your child’s most influential teacher. mp As a speaker and writer, Brenda Nixon (www. brendanixon.com) is dedicated to building stronger families through parent empowerment. She is a mom and the author of, Parenting Power in the Early Years, on raising a child from birth to age five.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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• 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 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 Kindergarten

211 S. Chestnut St.— 491-3411; Fax: 361-7834 Website: www.firstpreskindergarten.com Julie Cavnar, Director Curriculum: Modified A Beka Hours: 8:30-11:45; K3- 3 days/wk, 5 day 3 year old class; K4- 5 days/wk; K5- 5 days/wk.; Meals: Children bring snacks Multiple Child Discount; Annual Registration Fee, Call for Rates. Early drop off and After school program offered Mon.Fri. till 5:30 p.m. • Journey Pre-school 435 Sheila Blvd. —365-4936; Fax: 365-4366 April Smith, Director Website: www.journeychurchpreschool.com Curriculum: A Beka; Hours: 7-6; Ages: 6wks. - 4 yrs. After School Care and Summer program offered Meals: Hot; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards. Multiple Child Discount Relig.Affl: Christian/Non-Denominational Computer offered; Annual Registration Fee: Please call for rates and fees

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Hours: 7am-6pm; Curriculum: A Beka Meals: offer snacks and Hot meal Registration Fee: $ 65.00; Call for rates

Cecil • Macon East Academy 15396 Vaughn Rd. — 277-6566 ext. 220 Fax: 277-6544; 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. Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount After school care & Summer Enrichment program Staff/child ratio: K3 1:10, K4 1:16, K5 1:18 Call for monthly fees.

Hope Hull • Hooper Child Care/Early Learning Ctr 360 Fischer Rd. — 288-2770; Fax: 288-9171 Website: www.hooperacademy.org Tara Harris, Director Curriculum: A Beka / Combined Hours: 6:45 - 5:45 ages: 6 wks. - 4 yrs. Meals: Hot; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Multiple Child Discount Annual Registration: Call for rates

Millbrook • Busy Buddies (located in Millbrook UMC) 3350 Edgewood Rd.; 290-0600 Director: Susan Allen Curriculum: Thematic Hours: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Ages: 6 wks- Pre-K 4 Meals: Brown bag Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Religious Affiliation: Methodist Annual Registration fee: $50

• Learning Tree Child Development Center Deatsville Hwy. - 285-1188; Fax: 271-4970 Director: Wendy Ciambor Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; Ages: 6 weeks - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care Multiple Child Discount depending on age Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Registration fee; Please call for tuition rates and fees

• Poo Bear Academy 2441 Main St - 285-4462 Director: Teresa Williams; Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot ; Before & after school care Special Summer Program, Structured Pre K program. Staff/Child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $52; Call for rates

Prattville • Character Kids Preschool 1852 Hwy 14 East, Phone: 365-0777 Director: Kinley Mangum Religious Affiliation: Non-Denominational Curriculum: Abeka; Hours: 6 a.m until 6 p.m. , Ages: 6 weeks to 5 years; After school programs Meals: brown bag (lunch and 2 snacks) Microwave Multiple child discount Annual Registration and curriculum fee, call for rates. • East Memorial Christian Daycare 1320 Old Ridge Rd., Prattville, Phone: 358-4110 Founded: 2003; Director: Lisa Montgomery Religious Affiliation: Christian/Southern Baptist Ages/grades: 6 wks.- K-4

• Kiddie College 821 Peachtree St. — 365-6156; Fax: 365-8878 Email: kiddiecollege@aol.com Emily Little, Director Curriculum: The Letter People and High Reach; Hrs: 6:15 – 6 p.m.; ages: 6weeks.-12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Special Summer Program; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards KidComp offered; Librarian comes once a month. Annual Registration Fee: Please call for rates and fees

• Kindercare Learning Center

701 Sheila Blvd. — 365-0470 Fax: 361-7865 Director: Charlotte Hardy Website: www.kindercare.com Email: chardy@klcorp.com Hours: 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs Curriculum: Preschool at Kindercare, Welcome to Learning. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Annual Registration Fee: $55; Call for rates

• Learning Tree Child Development Center 1816 Glynwood Dr. — 365-1451; Fax: 271-4970 Caryn Marshall, 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 Registration fee: Call for rates • Prattville Learning Academy 949 Wright St— 361-2223; Fax: 361-2280 Director, Katie Poteet Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm; Ages: 6 wks.- 12 yrs. Meals: Hot (USDA); Before and After school care & Special Summer Program; Multiple Child Discount Family Support & Family Guidance Staff/Child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Call for weekly rates.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Wetumpka • Kiddie Kollege 202 Old Montgomery Hwy. — 567-4236 Hazel Downs, Director; Curriculum: A Beka Hours: 6:45 – 5:45; ages: 18mths. - 8 yrs. Meals: Hot; After school care Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates. • Sesame St. Clubhouse Preschool 815 Wilson St. — 567-2715 Cynthia Baker, Director Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 7 - 6; ages: 18 mos. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $50 Call for rates

Hours: 6:30am-5:30; Ages 6 wks. – 4 years Meals: Catered, Breakfast, lunch-hot; 2 snacks Computer for 4 year olds, music included; Relig. Affil.: Christian; Multiple Child Discount; One time registration Fee: $30. Call for Weekly Rates.

• Montessori Academy

1025 S. Hull St. — 262-8685; Fax: 834-7833. Website: www.montessorimontgomery.com Email: info@montessorimontgomery.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

• 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. - 14 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Special Summer Program, “Periscope”; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $50; Call for rates

1728 S. Hull St. – 262-8830; Fax: 262-4469 Email: asdemoss@hotmail.com Director: Alice DeMoss Curriculum: ABeka, Handwriting without Tears, Saxon Hands on Math and Touch Math Hours: 9:30–1:10 M-W-F; Early room and Late room offered; Ages: 12 mo. – Pre K5 yrs. Meals: snack provided for the one year olds, snack bucket for older children; Terrific Tuesdays offered as a fourth day option for 3 and 4 year olds. Special Summer Program 8 week program After school activities: Painting with Barb Grimes, Big Green Bus; Ballet for ages 3-5 years of age. Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Please call for rates.

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• Children’s Learning Center 305 S. Perry St. – 834-7475; Fax: 241-5171 Sheila Wilson, Director; Curriculum: Pinnacle

• 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 Rosemary Jones, Director Curriculum: McMillian Books Hours: 6:45 - 5:30; ages: 2 1/2 yrs – 12 years Meals: Hot; Before and After school care Special Summer program Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Relig. Affil.: Christian/Non-Denominational Annual Registration Fee: $50; Call for rates

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• Sunnyside Child Care Center 3784 Norman Bridge Rd; 612-0903; Fax: 612-0907 Director – Tracy Hill Hours – 5:45 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Ages 6 weeks-12 yrs of age Curriculum: Little People’s Workshop, Hooked on Phonics and Wee Learn; Before and After school care available; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards All certified teachers. Meals: Hot ; Special Summer Program available; Registration fee $35

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• Bethany Day Care and Kindergarten 714 Cedar St. -- 265-5521; Fax: 265-5521 (Call first) Email: bethanydaycare@aol.com Addie Myrick, Director Curriculum: Child’s World Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 2 1/2 to 5 yrs. (12 in summer); Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: 1:10; 1:20; Relig. Affil: Seventh Day Adventist Annual Registration Fee: $75; Call for rates • Cloverdale Preschool Academy 608 E. Fairview Ave. — 265-7488; Fax: 265-8725 Email: snall@cloverdalebaptist.net Sharman Nall, Director; Curriculum: A Beka Hours: 7:30 – 5:30; Ages: 6 wks. – 4 yrs. (In Summer up to school age) Special Summer Program; Relig. Affil.: Christian/Baptist. Call for rates

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

• Evangel Christian Preschool

3975 Vaughn Rd. — 273-0730; Fax: 272-5662 www.ecalions.org; Email: ecaoffice@aol.com Rosemary Hean, Director, Curriculum: A Beka; Hours: 6:30-6; Ages: 6 wks- 4yrs.; Meals: catered Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Multiple Child Discount; Relig. Affil.: Assemblies of God Gymnastics, music, computer & dance offered Annual Registration: call for rates • First UMC Early Childhood Development Ctr 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; Special Summer Program 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, music and art offered Annual Registration Fee: Call for Rates • Heritage Baptist Child Development Center 1849 Perry Hill Rd. — 279-0643; Fax: 277-8887 Relig. Affil.: Baptist Tamira Quattlebaum, Director Hours: 7 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 5 yrs.; Meals: Hot Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards; Tammy’s Academy of Dance and Flip Factory available. Weekly chapel for 2-5 yrs. Call for rates and fees. Registration: $50.00

• Learning Tree Child Development Center 4120 Carmichael Rd. — 271-4733; Fax: 271-4910 Director: Ruby Davis

Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 12 mos. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Multiple Child & Baptist Hospital Employee Discount. Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Registration fee: Call for rates

• Montessori at Mulberry

2034 Clubview St Phone: 265-7733; Founded: 2010 Email: casadebambini@aol.com Website: http://montessoriatmulberry.com For Admissions info: Jackie Maloy Religious Affiliation: None Ages/grades: age 18 months through Kindergarten 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. Registration Deadline: Open as space permits Testing Requirements: Personal interview Tuition: Please call for more information • Precious Memories Day Care & Learning Center 2123 Boultier St.; 834-1212; Fax:834-1212 (call first) Marilyn Johnson-Copeland, Director; Curriculum: Preschool Meals: One hot plus snacks Hours: 7 - 5:30; ages: 2 1/2 - 5 (12 summer) Special Summer Programs; Staff/child Ratio: DHR Standards/CDA Certified. Please call for rates • Second Mom’s Childcare and Learning Center 2703 Highland Ave. - 832-9403 Sandra Hill, Director Hours: 6:30am-6:30 pm.; ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Before and after school pickup Extended care and Summer program available Curriculum: A Beka and Baby Can Read; 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 Hours: 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Ages: 4 yrs -12 yrs Before and after school pickup Extended care and Summer program available Curriculum: A Beka Meals: Hot Breakfast, Hot Lunch + 2 snacks Staff Child ratio: DHR standards; All certified teachers. Registration fee: $35.00 • New Horizons Preschool 213 S. Madison Terrace — 834-9403 Cammie Thomas, Director Hours: 6:30 – midnight; ages: 6wks. – 12 yrs. Curriculum: Little People’s Workshop, Hooked on Phonics, Wee Learn; Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Special Summer Program Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards All certified teachers. Registration fee: $35.00

• Vaughn Park Church of Christ Mothers’ Day Out & Preschool

3800 Vaughn Road - Montgomery; Phone: 272-2665 Director: Denise Nelson or Cathy Henderson Religious Affiliation: Christian/Church of Christ Ages/grades: 6 weeks – 4 years old Hours: 9:00- 1:00 Tues/Wed/Thur Curriculum: varies by ages; Founded: 2003 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; Fax 229-4461 Director: Gloria Johnson; Email: gjohnson@alasu.edu Hours: 8 – 5:15; Ages: 3 yrs – 8 yrs

WCM Aldersgate Weekday Children’s Ministry

NOW ENROLLING for Fall 2013 Also enrolling for Summer Program for K-6th graders!

Hours of Operation Year Round Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm Early Care - 7:00am for those registered

The WCM is a DHR Licensed Facility

Voted an Award Winner for Best Childcare!

School Age Summer Program begins May 28!

6610 Vaughn Rd. 277.0880 www.aldersgateumc.org Montgomery Parents I April 2013

www.montgomeryparents.com

Extended hours and after school care available Curriculum: Saxon; Meals: Hot, Gourmet Food Services; Staff/child ratio: 1:15; Registration fee. Call for rates

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• Cleveland Avenue YMCA Afterschool Childcare 1201 Rosa Parks Ave. — 265-0566; Fax: 265-0541 Daryll Woods, Director Hours: 2 - 6; (Summer and Holiday hrs. 6:30 – 5:45) ages: 4 - 12 yrs. Special Summer Program Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: 1:15 Annual Registration Fee: Please call for rates • Hansel and Gretel Preschool 3010 Mobile Hwy. — 269-5644 Rita Faye Green, Director; Curriculum: Creative Hours: 7 - 5:30; Ages: 8 weeks - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before and After school care; Special Summer Program; Staff/child Ratio: DHR Standards Relig. Affil.: Christian/Baptist Annual Registration Fee: $50 • Kamp-A-Demics 2308 Dillard St., Montgomery Phone: 221-3101; Founded: 1999 Director: Vivian Gadson Ages/grades: 2 months – 12 years Hours: 6:30am – 5:30pm Curriculum: Pre-K, Play-based, and Creative Meals: Breakfast snack, lunch, and afternoon snack Registration: $50; Rates: $95/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

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• New Generation Preschool 3461 Old Selma Rd. — 263-9660; Fax: 263-9694 Email: ngpkids@knology.net Agnes Attia, Director; Curriculum: A Beka Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Special Summer Program; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration: $50 • Peppermint Hill Learning Center 1217 Oak Street-- Phone: 230-9650; Fax: 230-9650 Email: ceeb57@aol.com Director: Cynthia Mull Curriculum: Creative Ages: 6 mths - 6 years Hours: 7:00 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 3 year old; 1:5 for 6 mths - 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. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Pre-Kindergarten offered; Certified teachers Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $50; call for rates

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• Covenant Kids Child Development Center 9 Arden Road, Phone: 356-9110 Website:www.covenantkidsmontgomery.com Email:covenantkidsmontgomery@gmail.com Director: Kathy Hegwood 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; Relig. Affil.: Ministry of Covenant Presbyterian Church Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates Now registering for fall enrollment. Call to schedule a tour. • East YMCA Kindergarten & Child Care 3407 Pelzer Ave. — 272-3390; Fax: 395-6486 WebSite: www.ymcamontgomery.org Ruth Davis, Director; Curriculum: High Reach Hours: 7 - 6; Ages: 6 weeks - 5yrs. Meals: catered; Special Summer Programs Multiple Child Discount; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Relig. Affil.: Young Men’s Christian Association. Wade pool, gym activities, music, Bible stories. Annual Registration Fee: $25 • Eastern Hills Baptist Day Care 3604 Pleasant Ridge Rd. - 277-5424; Fax: 271-2307 WebSite: www.easternhillsonline.com Stacy Royal, Director; Curriculum: A Beka Hours: 7 - 5:30; Ages: 6 wks. - 5 yrs.; Meals: Hot; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Relig. Affil.: Christian/Baptist Orff Music, Dance, Barbers Elite Soccer and Big Green Bus. Annual Registration Fee: $65; Rates: Call for weekly rates • Eastmont Baptist Church Kindergarten & Mother’s Day Out 4505 Atlanta Hwy. — 244-9324 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: 9:30 - 1:30; Ages: 6 wks. - 5 K Meals: brown bag; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Observe public school holidays. Relig. Affil.: Christian/Baptist; Call for rates

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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• St. Bede Child Development Center  3870 Atlanta Hwy. — 277-8551 Director of Operations: Audra Starrett   Email: astarrett@stbede.org   Hours: Full Day Program 7:00 a.m. – 5:45 p.m.; ages: 6 wks. – 4 years Half Day Program 8:00-12:00; ages 3 and 4 years  Hot Lunches prepared onsite  Religious Affiliation: Catholic; Annual Registration Fee: $100 per child  Secured web access and video monitoring  Extracurricular activities available

Everything we do is designed for

learning.

• The Rock Preschool 3401 Harrison Road; Phone: 260-0984 Principal: Felica Carswell Hours: 7 am- 5:30 pm; Ages: 4 years Curriculum: A Beka Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Summer Program available; Multiple child discount Meals: Afternoon and snack Staff/Child Ratio: 2:12; Registration fee: Please call for more information or visit www.therockofmontgomery.org

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• Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center 4320 Wetumpka Hwy. — 244-7799 Cindy Ashcraft, Director Hours: 6 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care, Special Summer Program; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: $35; Call for rates

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• Green Gate School

3265 McGehee Rd. — 281-3300; Fax: 286-4884 Website: www.greengateschoolmontgomery.com Director of Education: Yvonna Richardson Headmaster: Kenneth Richardson Founded: in 1971, Green Gate School is accredited through AdVanced Ed formerly SACS. The school fosters the joy of learning and honors each student’s different learning style. Green Gate places the needs of the child first. Teachers implement innovative instruction techniques allowing bright young students to excel at their pace, and struggling students to work at a slower pace. A challenging and interesting curriculum adds the additional touch needed to keep an inquisitive group of young students happy. Green Gate emphasizes structure, yet allows students the opportunity to choose activities or special subjects they enjoy. Green Gate also encourages children to think for themselves, preparing them for independent learning in the future. Our Pre-School through Middle school are given the opportunity to learn grow in Outdoor classrooms where children are encouraged to explore and learn in a unique hands on environment. Green Gate has no formal church affiliation and accepts students of all races and religions. 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: Language Arts Open Court; Holt Math; High Scope Learning for ages 12 months through K-4; Hours: 7 am – 6 pm during the Academic School Year and Summer Camp Session Meals: Three days a week students may purchase lunch, other days students bring their lunch from home. We

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

FREE REGISTRATION* THROUGH 4/30/13.

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

Buckboard KinderCare 3025 Buckboard Road

334-270-5955

334-277-3720

Shelia Blvd. KinderCare 701 Sheila Blvd. Prattville

334-365-0470

*New families only. Free Registration offer expires 4/30/13. Attendance must begin by 5/13/13. Offer is subject to center participation, age acceptance, and space availability. Program and registration fees vary by center. Maximum discount limited to registration fee at center where family enrolls. Regular tuition rates apply. Free registration is not transferable and has no cash value. Additional restrictions may apply. See Center Director for details. ©2013 Knowledge Universe Education LLC. All rights reserved.

www.montgomeryparents.com

provide organic milk or fruit juice for their lunch drink in addition to nutritious snacks morning and afternoon Enrollment: Fees: $150 Registration/Curriculum and Cot Call $225 Call for full day 2, 3, or 5 day rates, half days rates also available. Family Discounts: Multiple 5% Child Discount on siblings. Extras: Mobile Mouse, Tonya Speed dance, Orff Music. Before & after school care; Special Summer Program , Scouts • 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.; Meals: brown bag Relig. Affil: Christian/Methodist Flip Factory, dance offered and aftercare pickup for Dannelly and Bear Special Summer program and Multiple Child Discount. Optional late pick up 5:30. Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates

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• A Great Start Learning Academy

3410 Kessinger Drive - Montgomery Phone: 356-KIDS or 356-5437; Founded: 2006 Owner: Natalie Masood; Director: Kim Griggs Ages/grades: 6 weeks – 5 years old Hours: 6:30am – 6:00pm; after school available Curriculum: High Reach Learning Meals: Hot Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks Registration Fee: $35.00 + $20.00 Application Rates: Please call for current rates Staff/child ratio: At or Better than DHR Standards Other: All teachers CPR & First Aid Certified. Students learn Spanish, Computer, & Sign Language. Mobile Mouse Computer and ORFF Music are also available.

• Aldersgate Weekday Children’s Ministries

6610 Vaughn Rd. — 277-0880; Fax: 277-8812  Kristie Adams-Skipper, Director

Curriculum: Creative Curriculum, Letter of the Week, Handwriting Without Tears   Hours: 7:30 - 5:30; Preschool; Ages: 12 weeks – Pre K 4  Meals: Hot; Relig. Affil.: Christian/Methodist  Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Standards  Teach thematic units using social studies, science, math, language, art and music through a hands-on program. Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates. • Ashley’s Lil Angels 3316 Horseshoe Circle, 239-9087 Web: www.ashleyslilangels.vpweb.com Email: ajordan9@aum.edu Director: Ashley Jordan Curriculum: A Beka, Jumpstart, self-made for younger ages Ages: 3 weeks to 5 years, after school (5 yrs-12 yrs) Hours: 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Accredited: NAEYC Night care, 7p.m. until 12 a.m., Summer care available Meals: 2 Hot meals and 2 snacks Call for monthly fees • JAAD’s Child Care & Development Center 4002 St. Louis Rd. – 284-9055 Email: jaads_inc@yahoo.com Theresa Hardwick, Director; Established 1996 Curriculum: self-developed Hours: 6 am-6 pm ; ages: 4wks.-15 yrs. Night care available; Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Snack Before & After School Care; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards. Call for fees and rates

• Kindercare Learning Centers

3025 Buckboard Rd. — 277-3720 Fax: 277-3720 (will pick up fax) Email: rcaddell@klcorp.com Rene Caddell, Director Curriculum: Welcome to Learning; Preschool Readiness; Preschool at Kindercare; Special Summer Program; Hours: 6:30 - 6; ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care

Multiple Child Discount; NAEYC Accredited Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards. Annual Registration Fee: $55; Call for rates

• Learning Tree Child Development Ctr. 3335 Woodley Rd. — 284-5560 Malkia Mathews, Director Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; Ages: 12 mos. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Special Summer Program/Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards Call for Weekly Rates

• Lighthouse Christian Academy 3570 Bell Rd. — 271-4200; Fax: 271-1042 WebSite: www.lcapirates.com Email: info@lcapirates.com Gary Mohney, Principle Curriculum: A Beka Before and after school care hours: 7 to 6 p.m. Ages K2 – 8th grade (8 - 12:30 preschool or full day) ; Nursery will be offered starting this fall for 18-24 months. Special Summer Program; Meals: Catered; Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards; Call for rates and fees

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• New Life Care 5600 Carriage Hills Drive. – 288-5723 Fax: 288-5723 Website: www.nlcogic.org Email: tydirect@nlcogic.org Director: Lady J Ellison, First Lady Curriculum: Creative Hours: 6:30am – 6; ages 6 wks. – 4 yrs. Before and After school care, Summer Enrichment Meals: Hot Meals, snacks provided Tuition: $350 per month Registration fees: $40 per application

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Jim Terry, Principal Curriculum: K3 – Teacher developed curriculum integrates literature, art, music and science to Introduce readiness skills and a hands on approach; K4 – Houghton/Mifflin Comprehensive Pre-K alpha Friends curriculum; Pre-K 5 – HarCourt School Publishers Storytown and Sadier Progress in Mathematics Curriculum. Hours: 7:45 – 11:30; ages: K3 – K4, full day option available. Or extended school day 7:45-2:45 for K5 Meals: Catered; After school care until 5:30 Multiple Child Discount; Special Summer Program (Camp STJ) Staff/child ratio: 2:14. Call for Rates

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• AUM Early Childhood Center 7051 Senators Dr. — 244-3772; Fax: 244-3688 Email: Rgriffon@aum.edu Ronnie Griffon, Director; Curriculum: Open Environment, Semester theme Hours: 7:30 - 5:30 p.m. ; ages: 3 - 5 yrs. Meals: hot; Staff/child ratio: 1:7 Annual Registration Fee: Call for rates • Bo Peep Christian Child Development School 5690 Atlanta Hwy.- 271-1941 Supervisor: Brooke Woodfin Director: Monique Davis 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 Relig. Affil. Christian/Non-Denom. Summer camp, swimming program, Flannel board Bible stories, games, art, puppet shows. Call for rates.

• Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Phone: 279-0271 Founded: 1974; Director: Jill Struthers Website: www.frazerkindergarten.com Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Ages: 6 wks. to 2 yrs. Mothers Morning Out 3 yrs. - K4 & K5. Hours: 8:30 - 12:30 a.m. Early drop off available at 7:30 a.m. Extended Day available for all ages until 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Curriculum: A Beka; Other: 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 - Montgomery Phone: 799-8390 Founded: 1974; formerly Carriage Hills Kindergarten Director: Sharon Kilpatrick Religious Affiliation: Christian/Church of Christ Ages/grades: Birth – 4 years old Hours: 9 a.m.– 1 p.m.; Mondays (for 3 years and up only), Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays; Curriculum: Play-Based, Beyond Centers and Circle Time; Meals: Snack provided, bring lunch; Registration Fee: $75; Rates: Call for rates; Staff/child ratio: Better than DHR Surveillance system, coded entry and two separate playgrounds

• Montessori at Hampstead

5251 Hampstead High Street Unit#111 Phone: 356-1969; Founded: 2011 Email: info@montessoriathampstead.org Website: www.montessoriathampstead.org Director: Betsy Hosp Hours: 7:15 until 2:45, early drop-off and after school care available Meals: Hot meals available or brown bag and snacks. Religious Affiliation: Interdenominational Ages/grades: 18 months – 15 years; The school is also starting a Jr. High School (7th & 8th grade)

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

www.montgomeryparents.com

For the 2013-2014 school year. Curriculum: Montessori Testing Requirements: Interview required, Transcripts for students 6 and up Sports & Clubs: P.E., Music, Big Green Bus, Dance Other: Farms Class, Movement Class, Theatre Class • Kidz R Stars 5773 Roxboro Dr; 334-538-0317 Website: www.kidzrstars.zoomshare.com Email: kidzrstars@knology.net Director: Tanya Wallace Hours: 6:30 – midnight, Sunday-Saturday; 6 wks - 12 Curriculum: Primary curriculum Accredited: NAFCC Meals: Two hot meals and one snack; evening snack and dinner. Before and After school pickup; Multiple child discount; Registration fee: Please call for rates

• Kindercare Learning Centers

6955 Halcyon Park Dr. — 270-5955; Fax: 396-6091 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 Development Ctr.

1767 Halcyon Blvd. — 272-3188 Darlene Tucker, Director

Curriculum: Full educational program Hours: 6:30 - 6; Ages: 12 mos. - 12 yrs.; Meals: Hot; Before & after school care; Special Summer Program; Multiple Child Discount Staff/child ratio: DHR Standards. Call for rates

• Memorial Presbyterian Church Children’s Center

2130 Bell Rd. – 274-1018; Fax: 2741046 Nancy Perkins, Director; Curriculum: Sing, Spell, Read & Write and Thematic Units Hours: 8:30 -12 p.m. M-F; Ages: 2 mo.4K; All day program for 2 months – 4 year olds, 7:30 – 5:30 p.m.; Summer program offered for 2 months to 5th grade Early and late rooms available; Meals: Brown Bag Chapel and music daily; Enrichment classes offered Staff/Child ratio: by DHR guidelines Call for rates • St. James Christian Preschool 9045 Vaughn Rd. — 277-3412; Fax: 277-8680 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

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2013 2011

TH E LEARNING TREE C H I L D D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R S , I N C . Your children deserve the best, why not give it to them.

We pride ourselves at The Learning Tree in having the best child care program for ages 6 wks. to 12 yrs. We are D.H.R. Licensed and provide transportation to and from public school. Full Day Care and Half day (morning or afternoon).

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6wks-12yrs available at all locations but Carmichael Rd.

1816 Glynwood Dr. Prattville - 365-1451 I 288 Deatsville Hwy. Millbrook - 285-1188 1767 Halcyon Blvd. - 272-3188 I 3335 Woodley Rd. - 284-5560 I 4120 Carmichael Rd. - 271-4733

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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• Taylor Road Christian Kindergarten & Mother’s Day Out 1685 Taylor Rd. — 271-0845 Belinda Hepburn, Director Website: www.taylorroad.org (link to preschool) Curriculum: A Beka & 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 mths. Before & After care available Special Summer Program (6 wks – 5th); Meals: Brown Bag; Religious Affi.: Christian/Baptist Staff/Child Ratio: Better than DHR Standards. Call for Rates • Time for Care Christian Academy 70 Ashburton Dr. Phone: 356-1571 Owner: Joyce Pearson Director: Wyvonia Hale Hours: 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. with 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 • Vaughn Forest Preschool and Kindergarten 8660 Vaughn Rd. — 277-0362 Mary James Newsom, Director Curriculum: High Reach and Letter People Hours: 9 - 1 (early & late room available) Ages: 18 mos. - 5yrs. Meals: Children bring sack lunch and snack; Certified Teachers Staff/Child Ratio: Better than DHR standards. Please call for rates

• Vaughn Road Preschool

8790 Vaughn Road (at Immanuel Presbyterian Church) (334) 277-4815; Email: vrpreschool@gmail.com Amanda Edwards - Director Curriculum: Creative Curriculum Fees: Call for Rates Hours: 6am to 6pm (Earlier Hours Available) Lunch & 2 Snacks Provided DHR Licensed Staff/Child Ratio: DHR Standards (Better in Nursery) Our program’s curriculum is linked to the WV Early Learning Standards Framework in Social and Emotional Development, the Arts, Physical Health and Development, Mathematics and Science. • YMCA Goodtimes Before and After School Programs Contact YMCA Goodtimes Center for additional information: 2325 Mill Ridge Dr.—279-8878; Fax: 279-5784. Website: www.ymcamontgomery.org

Before School Care at these locations: Forest Ave. Elem. 7am-8:15am McKee 7am-8:20am Bear Elem. 7am-8:30am Wares Ferry Elem. 6:45am-8am Halcyon Elem. 6:45am-8am Garrett Elem. 6:45am-8am Brewbaker Elem. 6:30am-8am Wilson Elem. 6:45-8a.m Please call for rates and fees

After School Care at these locations:

Baldwin Jr. High, Bear Exploration Center, Blount Elem., Brewbaker Elem., Catholic Middle, Children’s Center, Crump Elem., Dannelly Elem., Dozier Elem., East YMCA, Fitzpatrick Elem., Flowers Elem., Floyd Elem., Forest Ave. Elem., Garrett Elem., Georgia Washington Middle, Halcyon Elem., Holy Spirit, Macmillan at McKee Elementary, Morningview Elem., Pintlala Elem., 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

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

Imaginative Answers for Kids Children are simply the best at coming up with the answers they want, getting the results they desire using nothing but their imaginations. Their imaginative powers are unbounded by the conventions and boundaries that tend to hamper our free-thinking as we age. A child’s unlimited optimism in the face of obstacles shows in their artwork, their play and even in their responses to questions. Ask any three-year-old how they would to get to a far-away place like China, and their imagination is likely to produce an answer as simple as “I’d just go”. The following titles highlight the power of imagination to transport us, to find our answers and to get us where we want to be.

Dream Friends

by You Byun (Nancy Paulsen / Penguin Books for Young Readers) Melody has the best dream friend ever. When she sleeps, she and her enormous white catlike friend can fly, dance and play hide-and-seek; they can do anything they imagine together. But during the day, Melody has trouble summoning her dream-friend to keep her company in her new school, where she has yet to make a friend. Using the power of her imagination, she closes her eyes and practices a dance she learned from her dream friend. When a real voice chimes in “Is that a new game?,” she opens her eyes to see another little girl who’d like to learn the dance. Supporting the idea that dreams are the inspiration for action, Dream Friends is a brilliantly illustrated window into the beautiful resource that is a child’s imagination.

•

Tiger in My Soup

by Kashmira Sheth, Illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbler (Peachtree) When a young boy is left in the care of his teen sister, all he wants her to do is read his book about tigers with him. But she’s got her ear-buds in, groovin’ in her own world, and doesn’t want to take the time to read with him. After all she’s only supposed to make his lunch. But when she puts his bowl of alphabet soup in front of him, he suddenly spies a tiger in his soup! The tiger steams and swirls out of his bowl and his ordinary lunch quickly becomes a fight for his life (and lunch). His battle with the tiger draws his sister’s help as spoons drop and soup gets cold. Will this play for attention get him the book time he’s seeking with his sister? For the kid whose imagination roars for recognition, Tiger in My Soup is the recipe for required reading.

The Amazing Hamweenie

by Patty Bowman (Philomel / Penguin) Hamweenie is a cat…who is also a star waiting to be born. In his mind, he’s a famous magician-acrobat-entertainer who is destined for fame and the adulation of children worldwide. He imagines himself in the spotlight center-stage, under the big top and with his name writ large across the sky as “The Amazing Hamweenie”. But his dreams are hampered at every turn by his caregiver, a little girl who loves him with baths and costumes (balanced with treats and hugs). Convinced he is being alternately drowned and poisoned, Hamweenie bides his time looking for every opportunity to escape and find his destiny. But readers will find that his imagination is his best vehicle for escape – because his real captivity is the best life ever. This is a delightful title both for its droll humor and highly detailed artwork! Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

•

Join us for a celebration of God’s

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

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

We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode

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,

Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?

Riverview Reﬁnement, Program, Campﬁres night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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It’s Your Move!

Relocating with Kids

In Search of Child Care --Tips for vetting daycare facilities in a new town. Your family is relocating? Best wishes for a smooth transition. You’ve likely got a long list of chores you’ll need to accomplish before your move is complete. If you have young children, that list may include researching daycare providers in your new hometown. While it can be difficult to choose a facility from a distance, you can begin to narrow your search before moving. Developing a comfortable picture of your life in a new area will help you and your child transition more smoothly, and choosing the best daycare facility for your family is an important component of that overall picture. Here are some expert tips for vetting daycare facilities from afar:

Start Early

Begin looking at childcare facilities as soon as you receive the news that you’re moving. While it’s not ideal to conduct your search from a distance, there are ways to vet facilities in your new town. Doing preliminary research can save you time when you have the opportunity to visit facilities in person. If you have any connections in your new town, ask for recommendations. Word of mouth referrals are an excellent way to get the scoop (good and bad) on childcare centers. If the most coveted locations are full, or have a waiting list, you can also ask those centers for referrals to other respected facilities. Conduct an online search to further narrow your list of possibilities. “We have a website, and parents can check us out on the Internet,” says Courtney Tate, Center www.montgomeryparents.com

Director at Halcyon Park KinderCare in Montgomery. “Our site includes pictures of our classrooms and playground, as well as the bios of our teachers and staff.”

Pick Up the Phone

Once you have whittled your list to a reasonable number of facilities, call them for more information. “Of course parents can call us with any specific questions,” says Tate. When vetting a facility over the phone, ask any questions you feel are relevant to the needs of you and your child. From business hours to cost of care, this is your chance to further determine if a facility will meet the needs of your family. While you should create your own list of relevant questions, Tate recommends asking three specific things before hanging up the phone. 1) What are your safety procedures? “Ask who can come in and out of the building,” says Tate. “Our facility has a keypad entry and only families are allowed in the building.” 2) What kind of experience do the teachers have? Ask about teacher retention, background checks and other credentials required to teach at the facility. 3) What curriculum do you use? Find out how the curriculum will apply to your child based on his age.

Listen for Red Flags

Trying to determine if a facility is the right fit for you and your child can be a difficult task, even when you visit in person. 76

You should be alert for any red flags that pop up during your phone conversation with a facility. “If the person answering the phone seems disinterested and doesn’t want to spend time to share about the facility, that’s a red flag,” says Tate. “You should speak to someone who is interested in your child and asks questions about the age and interests of your child.” Tate says that the person on the other end of the line should even be able to suggest ways the facility can work with you to help your child have an easier transition.

Check It Out In Person

Before making a final decision about a childcare facility, it’s crucial you visit in person. Make every effort possible to see several facilities before your move-in date. “It’s critical to do research and talk to other people in the local area, but when you come to look for a house, look at daycare facilities, too. You’ll get a better feel for the center if you visit in person,” says Tate. What you see, smell and hear at a facility will tell you a lot of what you need to know. Look to see if children and teachers seem happy and if artwork and crafts are displayed. Observe whether the facility smells clean. Listen for crying children and determine if teachers and staff are consoling and caring. Don’t underestimate your instincts when searching for a childcare facility. You are, as a parent, perfectly suited for the task. You know what your child needs and, with a little research, you’ll be able to make the best decision for you and your child. Julie Steed is an Air Force spouse and mom of two. She has moved 10 times in 14 years and blogs about relocation at juliesteed.com.

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Buy one Cinnabon® Classic Roll 2nd for ½ price Good only with original coupon at 5055 Carmichael Rd. Schlotzsky’s® restaurant. Limit one coupon per person, per visit. Not valid with any other offer, sandwich meal or kid’s meal. ©2012 Schlotzsky’s Franchise LLC. All rights reserved.

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Savannah’s 6 BEST for FAMILIES

Why This Georgia Destination Should Be on Your Trip List by DeAnne Watson

When it comes to vacationing, families in the River Region are quick to head three hours south to the Florida Panhandle or Alabama beaches, and Atlanta and Chattanooga are definitely on the radar for city trips not too far from home. While I have visited and enjoyed all of the above, I’d like to tempt you to drive just a couple of hours further to experience a city rich with history, beauty, and FUN! While Savannah, Georgia is certainly a romantic city for a couple’s escape, I discovered on a recent visit that it’s also an ideal place for a family getaway. Taking kids on vacation requires a little extra planning to ensure everyone is busy with fun things to do, and that’s just what you’ll find in Savannah. In and around the city, you’ll climb a historic lighthouse, swim in the ocean, take a walking “safari scavenger hunt” through the heart of downtown and more! Here are my top picks for your family’s Savannah vacation:

1. Take a Trolley Tour

It’s the best way to visit various city sites and get an overall feel of this historically www.montgomeryparents.com

rich city. Established in 1733 and known as America’s first planned city, there’s much to see and much to learn in Savannah. While several trolley tours are available, I opted for Old Town Trolley Tours (easy to spot with its bright green and orange design). The open air trolley passes many of the 22 city squares Savannah boasts and the beauty of each with its giant live oaks and hanging Spanish moss is worth the ride alone. With 15 stops throughout the most historic areas of Savannah, the trolley tour allows you to see the main attractions at your leisure as you step off and back on the trolley at designated stops. The drivers are your tour guides and are very knowledgeable about the history and pop culture surrounding the Savannah. You’ll see homes featured in the famous Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and the bench where Forrest Gump sat to tell his story, plus much more. As a mom, I think the trolley tour is best suited for families with kids eight years old and older who can understand and appreciate what they are learning and have the needed patience to explore the city for most of a day. If you have younger kids, opt for a 78

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horse and carriage ride instead, most of which leave from the City Market area. What kid wouldn’t love the idea of a horse being his mode of transportation? This alone will help keep children content as you take a tour of the city’s best attractions without the multiple stops. \After your ride, you will have a feel for the area well enough to know where you’d like to explore further.

2. Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace

Whether you have a Girl Scout in the family or not, be sure to take a guided tour through the historic birthplace and childhood home of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. The craftsmanship and design of this early 1800s mansion is exquisite and even contains 40% of the family’s original furnishings. You’ll tour the parlor where Juliette held the first Girl Scout meeting in 1912 with 18 local girls, and you’ll even see the bedroom she and her sisters shared as children. The tour guides do an excellent job sharing the story of Juliette and her family’s life, why and how she began the Girl Scouts, plus the history behind the period furnishings and household items particular to that era. Montgomery Parents I April 2013

The tour is affordable, running only $6 and $8 for older children and adults. Kids under age 5 are free. The tour only lasts about 30-45 minutes making it manageable for even younger children. After the tour is over visit the gift shop downstairs for a souvenir, and if you have younger kids be sure to pick up a copy of Savannah Safari interactive sightseeing book, which I’ll give more details about in the next section.

3. Savannah Safari: The Perfect Way to Sightsee for Young Kids

As mentioned above, you can pick up copies of Savannah Safari at the Juliette Gordon Low house in the gift shop; you’ll need one per child. Each book is only $6 and is an interactive fill-in-the-blank walking tour through historic Savannah. The safari will keep your kids engaged, while you enjoy the beauty of the city through grown-up eyes. All your family needs to take advantage of this unique experience are the guide books, pencils and comfy shoes. The 90-minute walking tour leads your children through the city to discover animals disguised in the historic architecture of Savannah, as they fill in the blanks of their booklets upon each discovery. They’ll find dolphin downspouts,

bronze frogs, wrought iron eagles and more during this sightseeing scavenger hunt of sorts. Highly recommended!

4. Eat at Paula Deen’s Restaurant

If your family is into Food Network (or even food, in general), then you know of Paula Deen and her famous Southern cooking. Paula’s restaurant, The Lady & Sons, has become one of, if not the biggest attraction in the Savannah. While weekends are often crowded and you’ll want to call for a reservation, I visited on a Tuesday and was seated for lunch with no wait at all. The Lady and Son’s menu has Southern and coastal fare including Chicken Pot Pie, Crab Cakes, Fried Green Tomatoes and Shrimp ‘n Grits, but if you want to sample a variety of Paula’s fa-

mous Deep South cooking, opt for the buffet. While slightly pricey it’s a once in a lifetime chance to taste favorites like fried chicken, collard greens, mac ‘n cheese, and much more, all prepared Paula Deen style with that little extra flare. You’ll also find Jack’s Picks, a reasonably priced kids menu named after Paula’s first grandchild, and the options will please your kids nine and under. After your meal, visit the gift shop for souvenirs and a variety of pantry items including specialty sauces, salad dressings and baking mixes made from Paula’s recipes.

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Got Extra Time?

Add These to Your List **Savannah Theater

See a Branson style variety show that will have children and adults singing along and dancing in their seats.

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

**Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

The beauty of this historic church is unmatched and worth a trip inside. You’ll be inspired and amazed by the craftsmanship and detail work from floor to ceiling.

**Jepson Center ArtZeum

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This interactive children’s museum sits inside the The Jepson Center, a modern art museum near City Market. ArtZeum features 24 activities, including using small wooden blocks to create a masterpiece, creating your own art flower garden with everyday objects, and making sculptures from household items like muffin tins and spatulas. If your family is into art, you’ll want to make a little time for ArtZeum.

word of our God

**Forsyth Park

will stand forever.

(time to run and play, get the energy out) Hop off the trolley at this expansive and beautiful city park. There’s plenty of room for your children to run, play and get all their energy out, while you relax and take in the small botanical garden and walk the shaded pathways.

Isaiah 40:8

Join us for worship, fellowship, and service.

**Ships of Sea Museum

Housed in the luxurious Scarbrough House mansion, this interesting collection includes ship models, artwork, and antiques from the Atlantic trade era. Kids (and adults) will especially be intrigued by the detailed Titanic reproduction, and everybody will enjoy a walk through the gorgeous gardens behind the museum.

Sunday Morning Worship 8:45 & 11 a.m. Worship Service at Cloverdale School Sunday at 6 p.m.

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5. Spend the Afternoon “River Walking” on River Street

River Street has an old time charm with its cobblestone streets and trolley tracks lining Savannah River’s working harbor. Stop for lunch at one of the 21 eateries (many with outdoor seating for that desired water view), then spend a couple of hours strolling through the unique shops and art galleries. If the kids are a little restless with the shopping, just promise them a trip to River Street Sweets or Savannah’s Candy Kitchen at the end of the outing…no one will be disappointed. These candy shops are a child’s dream with rows of candy bins stocking every kind of treat they love. Famous for pralines, they also carry amazing fudge, s’mores, brittles, and dipped marshmallow pops in a variety of flavors. Moms and dads will particularly enjoy the old-school candy section with Pop Rocks, Bottlecaps, Charleston Chews and other throw back candies from back in the day. A ferry sits on River Street ready to take guests on a free ride to see the city from the water, which is quite beautiful. You’ll disembark across the river at the Westin Golf & Spa Resort, which as a side note, I would recommend for your stay with younger children. Since young kids require some down time, you can take advantage of the resort feel of the Westin, with its palm tree lined swimming pool overlooking the river. After spending several hours touring the city in the morning, this resort is the perfect place to have a relaxing afternoon letting the kids swim and have a little run-around room in the grassy areas surrounding the hotel. And what child wouldn’t love the idea of taking a water ferry ride at least twice a day to get to their destination? (If you prefer

Dr. R. Lawson Bryan Senior Minister

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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to stay in the heart of the city, there are many family-friendly hotels and inns from which to choose.)

6. Tybee Island Day Trip (Yes, the

beach is only 20 minutes away) After spending a day or two enjoying city life in Savannah, take the short 20-minute drive out to Tybee Island. On the way out of town stop by Fort Pulaski National Monument and let the kids (and the kid in you)

explore trails, ditches, and drawbridges at this Civil War-era fort. Guided tours are available for only $3, and kids 15 and under are free. That’s a bargain! Once you arrive on Tybee Island, make a stop at the historic lighthouse and climb the 178 stairs to the top for a breathtaking view. Although rebuilt several times, the Tybee Island Lighthouse was originally erected in 1732 to guide mariners safely into the Savannah River. It is Georgia’s tallest and oldest active lighthouse and certainly worth a visit (and a climb)! Next, head to the beach and 15th Street Pier for some fun in the sun. If you have your bathing suits a little beach time and shell hunting may be in order. If not, take a few

minutes to walk the length of the pier, grab a snack from the local vendors, and watch as fishermen try to reel in their catch. Tybee Island has that old-time beach town feel and is a fun (and inexpensive) detour from the city for a day. Must-eat food stop: On your way back into Savannah, a pit stop at The Crab Shack is a must. With outdoor seating overlooking the scenic marshes, you’ll feast on crab, sausage, potatoes, and corn…and the best part is you all get to eat with your hands. Simply push your empty shells and cleaned cobs into the big holes in the center of the table and start on your next serving. Its super fun! Kids can even feed live alligators on their way out. If Savannah hasn’t been on your radar either because of the 5 ½ hour drive, or simply because you haven’t known what made the city so special, I hope this itinerary of sorts will inspire you to give it a try! Savannah is one of those places you fall in love with and want to go back and visit again and again. I know I have and I definitely plan to! mp For more information on these attractions and other great reasons to visit Savannah, go to www. VisitSavannah.com.

Learning? Improving? Mastering strokes?

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One-On-One

SWIM LESSONS FOR ALL LEVELS

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Family Calendar Ongoing Ala. Dept. of Archives & History

Exhibit galleries include children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Granny’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Discovery Boxes are filled with all kinds of Alabama history. Numerous handouts, videos on Selma to Montgomery March, Helen Keller, Mardi Gras and more. Photographs of Helen Keller on display. The Archives museum galleries are FREE to the public. Hours are Mon.-Sat., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Please note: The Research Room is only open the 2nd Saturday of each month. 624 Washington Ave., Montgomery. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with well-known artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters. Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and community-based organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@bellsouth.net. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 457-9254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individu-

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April 2013

als who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are MondayFriday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 349-4235 or visit www.chomonline.org. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www. blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (2151422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. and Sun. Admission $3.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $2.50/person. Mon-Thurs. at 3 p.m.; Sun. at 2 p.m. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 241-4799. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and

offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com Robert E. Lee High School Class of 1973 is planning its 40th class reunion to be held in July. If you are interested in helping, please call (334) 269-0959. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com.

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Tales for Tots 10:30-11 a.m. April 17. Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Museum galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Call 2404365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

Classes Bradley Method Natural Childbirth Classes

Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Zink Chiropractic Clinic, Course includes pregnancy exercise and nutrition, body changes during pregnancy, the coach’s role in pregnancy and natural birth, the stages of labor, breathing and relaxation for labor, common interventions and how to avoid them, breastfeeding, basic newborn care, and more. Contact Lanette Tyler, 450-4605 or lanette.tyler@gmail.com; or visit www.bradleybirth.com Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breast-feeding experience. Usually the first Saturday of the month, from 9-11 a.m. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. FREE. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year but are often held on the first Saturday of the month, from noon-2 p.m.. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education.Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Grandparent Class This program presents new concepts in newborn care to grandparents who need a refresher course. Usually one Tuesday per month. FREE. Call for schedule. Jackson Hospital. Call 293-8497. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. Baptist Medical Center East. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Provides expectant mothers information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org to schedule. Your Amazing Newborn One-night class taught by a pediatrician and nursing staff usually one Tuesday a month. This class presents new concepts in newborn care and helps alleviate parenting jitters often experienced by soon-to-be parents. Grandparents also welcome. Jackson Hospital. FREE. For more info, call 293-8497.

Services American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road

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

Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/patients_volunteers.html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894. Nolan Research Pays Kids for Toy Testing Nolan Research, 2569 Bell Road in Montgomery, conducts toy tests that pay $20 in cash to each child ages 4-12 that participates. Testing takes place usually between 5 and 7 p.m. and only takes about 30-45 minutes. Results are used to help toy manufacturers decide whether or not to bring new toys out on the market. Please call 284-4164 to sign your child up and spread the word to any other families who may be interested in allowing their children to participate.

Support Groups Adoption Support

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

Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore, Autauga, & Macon Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery office at 6128162 or call 1-800-ACS-2345 and you will be connected to the Montgomery office. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects

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

Divorce Support

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

Gambling Support

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

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and

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play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 284-2721. We will also collect Toys for Tots. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. Grief Recovery After Suicide, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., first Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Room 3102. This group is open to family members and friends who have lost a loved one as the result of suicide. Group offers a confidential environment in which to receive support, hope and information. Contact Rev. Susan Beeson, 272-8622. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faithbased healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www. honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202.

Homeschool Support

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

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to noon. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. On the first Thursday of each month, the hours are extended to 12:30 p.m. while the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 beginning at 11 a.m. Only during this time will each participant need to bring a sack lunch. For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. This new series is for all patients with congestive heart failure and their caregivers. This series is FREE for all participants. Below is the information: Cardiolife, a new educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA. Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance, Room 3101 at Frazer UMC, 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 2728622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 2019638 or 652-1431 for more info. Fibromyalgia Support, Room 8114 at Frazer UMC, 3rd Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. This group is for those that have fibromyalgia and for their family members and friends. For more info, please call 272-8622. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChase-NE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Montgomery offers General Membership meetings on 4th Mondays (beginning January 28, 2013) at the Dalraida UMC annex building at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are open to anyone who is interested in issues concerning mental health. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group continues to meet on 2nd Mondays, starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Dalraida UMC annex building. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for directions/details. Beginning in February, NAMI Montgomery will offer the 12-week “Family To Family” education program (free) on Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. at the Bell Road Lowder Regional Library. Call 271-2280 to register. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, WILL NOT

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MEET in FEBRUARY. Monthly meetings will resume 3rd Tuesdays in March from 6:30-8 p.m. in room 3104. This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For more info, call 272-8622. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Parent Support

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his five-year-old daughter Erin. It gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. All fathers in the River Region are invited to bring their daughters to the library to read, laugh and have fun. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more information on this event, call Ron Simmons at 334-777-8596. iConnect, Frazer Memorial UMC, 3rd Thursdays from 9-11:30 a.m. in the Parlor. Share life, encourage and be encouraged by other women. We meet for breakfast, fellowship and a speaker. Advance reservations are necessary for breakfast and preschool nursery. Cost is $5 per meeting. For more info or to make reservations, call Frazer’s Women’s Ministry at 495-6391 or e-mail Sandy Boswell at sandy@frazerumc.org La Leche League of Montgomery, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (569-1500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_heather@yahoo. com). Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http://montgomerymultiplesclub.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, are you looking for a good excuse to get out of the house? MOPS is a great opportunity to hone your mothering skills, meet new friends, and learn new things while deepening your relationship with God. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are 1st and 3rd Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (Oct. 3 & 17) Call Kristi Gay at (334) 233-8989 or visit www. montgomeryfbc.org.

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MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information.

Single Parents Support

Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@ yahoo.com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 1st Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call 356-9048 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net Parents of Special Needs Children, Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, 1st Sundays, 5-6:30 p.m. Please notify Chris Henderson if you plan to come. (Home: 215-0427; e-mail: chenderson41@yahoo.com River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo. com

Teens/Families Support

Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info! “Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12

about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way. Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m. “Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity! “Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children. “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating. “Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher! Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot! You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or e-mail trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. This group begins March 19 using the life skills training model. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

This Month Monday, April 1

Against the Odds: The Story of the Tuskegee Airmen and Mildred Carter -- Through April 30 Rosa Parks Museum and Children’s Wing Exhibit Hall. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Call 241-8701 or visit www.troy.edu.

Tuesday, April 2

“Your Amazing Newborn” Class Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. $ 15 fee covers cost of mother and support person. One-night class taught by a pediatrician and nursing staff. Presents new concepts in newborn care and helps alleviate parenting jitters by soon-to-be parents. Grandparents welcome to attend for free. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/events. Deadline for Clean City Commission Funky Junk Contest -- Through April 5 The Funky Junk Art Contest is an annual citywide competition for artists and imaginative dreamers of all ages. Every student and adult is challenged to create an original work of art composed of used materials and recycled goods. Entries must be original – no copies or purchased items; only one entry per participant. Entries must arrive after 8 a.m. and before 4 p.m. Entries must be easily transportable: Maximum total weight – 25 lbs; maximum size – 3’ by 3’. MCCC is not responsible for art that falls apart. Entries must be delivered to Montgomery Clean City Commission at 1 Dexter Plaza (formerly 1 Court Square); Montgomery, AL 36104. Winning entries will be on display at MAX Credit Union @ 400 Eastdale Circle April 24- May 7. The Awards Ceremony will be held on May 7 at MAX Credit Union. For questions,

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Family Calendar contact Cynthia Jancaterino, education coordinator, at 625-2175 or cjancaterino@montgomeryal.gov

Thursday, April 4

Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Opening Day with MAX Fireworks Spectacular 7:05 start time. Visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call 323-2255 for details. Smart Shopping 102 5:30-7:30 p.m. Fee: $22. If you took Smart Shopping 101 at AUM and want more money-saving tips and practice actually finding and printing coupons, then this class was designed just for you! Spend a night in our computer lab with direct instruction on how to find the best deals, sign up for and print coupons. This is a hands-on class where you will practice what you are being taught. You will leave with tons of money-saving tips. Call 334-244-3804, visit www.ce.aum.edu, or e-mail conedinfo@aum.edu to register. American Cancer Society Volunteer Training 10 a.m.-noon at the Society Office, located at 3054 McGehee Road in Montgomery. For many cancer patients, getting to and from treatment is the greatest barrier in beating the disease. You can help by becoming a Road to Recovery volunteer driver and provide a local cancer patient with an important ride to lifesaving treatment. For more information, please call (334) 612-8162 or 800-227-2345.

Friday, April 5

Broadway Veterans Perform at AUM Benefit AUM’s Alabama Activities Center at 6:30 p.m. From “Porgy and Bess” to “Ring of Fire,” this event will feature the vocal talents of Broadway veterans who will share tunes from their productions in a one-night only review benefitting the Auburn Montgomery School of Liberal

April 2013

Arts. The event will feature Abe Reybold, who has starred in “Grand Hotel,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and “Will Rogers Follies”; Allison Blackwell, “Porgy and Bess” and “Ragtime”; and Beth Malone, “Ring of Fire,” “BINGO!” and “The Marvelous Wonderettes.” In addition to the Broadway review, the event will include dinner, drinks, music and dancing, as well as a few surprises. Silent and live auctions will feature unique items including house seats to Broadway’s “Cinderella” followed by a post-show coffee date with actor Andy Mills. Disney fans will enjoy bidding on a live phone call from the voice actor who brings Dr. Doofenshmirtz to life on the Disney Channel animated series “Phineas and Ferb.” Tickets are $100 per person or $1,000 per table. Proceeds will benefit scholarships and programs in the AUM School of Liberal Arts. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible. For more info, call (334) 244-3382 or visit www.aum.edu/nightout. Late Night with YMCA Goodtimes -- Also April 12, 19 & 26 A weekly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of five-to 12-year-olds offered at the YMCA Goodtimes Center on Bell Road. Time is 6:30-11:30 p.m. and supper is included. Cost is $15 per child and no reservations are required. Child to staff ratio is 15:1. Call 279-8878 for more info. Jasmine Hill Gardens in Wetumpka Open for the Season -- Weekends through June 30 “Alabama’s Little Corner of Greece” now features more than 20 acres of year-round floral beauty and classical sculpture, including new statuary honoring Olympic heroes. The Olympian Centre welcomes visitors with a video presentation of Jasmine Hill’s history and a display of Olympic memorabilia from the Games of past years. A tour of Jasmine Hill, now completely accessible to visitors with disabilities, offers spectacular and ever-chang-

ing views, including our full-scale replica of the Temple of Hera ruins as found in Olympia, Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Flame. For more info, visit www.jasminehill.org or call (334) 263-5713.

Saturday, April 6

Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org. Let’s Fly a Kite! 10 a.m.-noon. Cooters Pond Park, upper level, Prattville. April is National Kite Month... a great time to bring the family, a picnic lunch, the family dog, and teach the kids an old-time, fun, inexpensive outdoor activity. Bring or build your own kite and come join in on the fun. (All dogs must be on a leash and have had their vaccinations.) FREE! Call (334) 361-3640 for more info. Miss Bright Star of America Scholarship Pageant Auburn University at Montgomery. Miss Bright Star of America (MBSA) provides young ladies ages 3-21 years with a vehicle to further their personal, professional and community goals. Selected delegates will undergo professional training in a personality development and grooming workshop, which includes: setting educational goals, public speaking, confidence building, pageant walking and stance, posture, grooming, social graces, and wardrobe coordination. For more info, call 221-8779 or visit www.missbsa.com. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community on Saturdays this spring. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu.

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Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is build a bird feeder. 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. Santuck Flea Market An outdoor flea market with more than 450 booths featuring arts, crafts, antiques, novelties, imports, food, and more. The Santuck Flea Market is open the first Saturday of each month from daylight until 2 p.m. RAIN OR SHINE. Free admission, free parking available. Call 567-7400. Alabama Angels Special Needs Pageant Hunter Hills Church in Prattville. The Alabama Angels Pageant is a pageant specifically for individuals with special needs, both male and female of any age. Anyone with a medically diagnosed physical or intellectual impairment is invited to participate. For information on donations, registration, or volunteer opportunities contact Renee Lantz at 334-300-9238 or Tanya Murphy at 334-799-7119 or by e-mail at alabamaangels@hotmail.com. Mommy Boot Camp Presented by Mentors & Moms of Eastwood Presbyterian Church. 9 am to 12:30 pm (registration 8:30 am in Fellowship Hall) Topics covered include: Biblical Communication, Gospel Oriented Parenting, and Dealing with Mommy Anger. Lunch and snacks provided. Cost $10. There will not be a nursery provided. For more info or to register, email Tiffany Higginbotham at khiggi@ knology.net. CloverJam 2013 featuring Grace Potter Concert starts at 8 p.m. in Roland Arena on the historic campus of Huntingdon College. 1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery. Tickets on sale via eventbrite.com or on the Huntingdon College campus at the Office of Student Life. Call (334) 833-4294 or e-mail fparsons@ huntingdon.edu 9th Annual Autism Crawfish Boil 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. The boil will feature all you can eat crawfish, potatoes, conecuh sausage, baby mushrooms and corn along with live music from Federal Expression, Honey Tree and Electric Toad. All proceeds are donated to assist with autism programs provided by Easter Seals Central Alabama for families in the River Region. These programs include autism diagnosis, which is costly and difficult to receive. A limited number of early bug tickets will be available at a reduced price of $25 until March 22. In addition, a limited number of VIP tickets will be available for $50. These tickets include early admission, priority seating, cocktail service, a 2013 Mudbug Ball koozie and sponsor goody bags. Regular admission tickets will be $35. Tickets are available online as well as the Easter Seals Central Alabama office on the Southern Bypass and Rock Bottom American Pub. Montgomery Zoo Weekend -- Also April 7 Admission charged. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mark your calendar today to make plans to join us for this fun-filled, family event at the Zoo. The Zoo and Museum are transformed into a festival-like environment complete with games, enflatable slides and bouncy houses, horse trail rides, giraffe encounter, live animal presentations, zookeeper talks, a variety of food, drinks and snacks, live entertainment and much more. Funds from this event go directly into the general fund allowing the Zoo to continue to grow and expand. Call 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com Free Guided Walking Tours -- Also April 13, 20 & 27 Begin at 10 a.m. In Montgomery, meet at the Montgomery Area Visitiors Center. In Prattville, meet at the Autauga County Heritage Center. In Wetumpka, meet at the Elmore County Museum.

Sunday, April 7

2013 Cloverdale-Idlewild Spring Concert Series Sundays Through May 26 4-6 p.m. Cloverdale Road, Montgomery. The admission is free! Everyone is welcome, so bring all your friends and family. Leashed dogs are also welcome, so bring your furry babies as well! This year’s concert series is being funded by a grant from BONDS (Building Our

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Family Calendar Neighborhood for Development and Success). April 7, Tres Hombres, 70’s rock and more. April 14, John Bull and Sheffield Walker, blues. April 21, Stephen McCullough. April 28, Zig and Ben, Old time rock and roll with their own special twist.

Monday, April 8

Trinity Presbyterian School Presents Links & Lobs Golf and Tennis Tournament Wynlakes Golf & Country Club. Registration deadline is April 5. To register, visit www.trinitywildcats.com/linksandlobs. For questions, contact Mary Elizabeth Collett at 213-2157 or mcollett@trinitywildcats.com.

Wednesday, April 10

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Colors of the City Puppet Show -- Through April 12 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. shows. For children 3 to 6 years of age. This is a reservation-only program and is free. Please contact Jill Byrd at 334-240-4359 for information or visit www.mmfa.org.

Thursday, April 11

“An Expressive Evening” at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-7 p.m. Experience the diverse talents of local high school students. The newly formed Muses, a committee of teens passionate about the arts, presents “An Expressive Evening.” The performance event will showcase dance, literary readings, music, and visual arts by local youth, engaging the Museum’s collection as a source of inspiration. For more info, visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents Pride and Prejudice -- Through April 13; 18-20; and 25-27 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $25 and include dinner and the show.

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April 2013

Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $20. Reservations must be paid in advance. Make reservations or for more information, call 386-7190 or e-mail boxoffice@faulkner.edu. Cloverdale Playhouse Theater Presents The Clean House -- Through April 24 A Play by Sarah Ruhl. A whimsical and poignant look at class, comedy and the true nature of love by one of America’s most exciting new playwrights. Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. For tickets or more information, call 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org Theatre AUM Presents Doubt: A Parable Through April 21 Set at a Catholic school in the Bronx, New York, in 1964, the play centers on principal Sister Aloysius (in a role made famous on the big screen by Meryl Streep) who takes matters into her own hands when she suspects a priest of impropriety. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free to AUM students, employees and alumni with Warhawk ID; $10 for general audiences and $5 for seniors, military and non-AUM students. For more information, call 244-3632 or visit www.aum.edu/ theatreaum.

Friday, April 12

Day Out with Thomas Also April 13, 14, 20, 21 At the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calera All little engineers are invited to take a 25-minute train ride with Thomas! The fun-filled family experience includes photos with Sir Topham Hatt, putt-putt golf, maze, jumpstation, bubble station, temporary tattoos, storytelling, videos, live music and hands-on fun in the Imagination Station! Purchase delicious food from vendors on site, or bring your own picnic! You’ll find commemorative activities,

merchandise and give-aways available ONLY at this Day Out With Thomas event. Tickets $19 plus tax includes train ride plus all activities. Advance purchase recommended. Tickets and info at www. ticketweb.com/dowt or call 866.468.7630 Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. Stadium Fest 2013 in Birmingham -- Also April 13 Spain Park in Birmingham. This free, biannual event features Christian music artists and speakers including: Rhett Walker Band, Bill “Bubba” Bussy and Rick Burgess, Jamie Grace, SwitchFoot, Bello, KJ-52, Britt Nicole, Building 429, Crowder, Scott Dawson, Newsboys and more! Children’s Playtime in Bronner Burgess Playground with inflatables, face painting, games and James Spann. Firework finale. Visit www.stadiumfest.com. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also April 26 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http://www. onlineecho.com

Saturday, April 13

2nd Saturday Riverfront Festival First Annual Riverwalk Rally Cruise-In Car Show, 3-6

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pm; Fly by Radio Concert, 6 pm; John Lee Paint “Paint the Sky Fireworks Show”, 9:30 pm. Plus, Fireworks Cruise aboard Harriott II, interactive activities for kids, food vendors, face painting, magician and balloon twisting. Free admission. Visit www.funontheriver.net. for more info. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic Free to the public on select Saturdays 10-11 a.m. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. Project is The Croods: Planter. Your child will love building this planter and decorating it with his favorite creatures and characters from the movie! For more info, visit www. lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. The Alabama Kidney Foundation Walk-a-Thon Baptist Health’s DeBoer Building, in Montgomery. This family-friendly event offers something for everyone: food, fun and fabulous prizes! If you are interested in leading a team and helping thousands of Alabamians suffering from kidney disease, please contact Amy at (334) 241-0003 or amy@alkidney.org to register a team today. AUM’s Annual Global Cultural Festival 6 p.m., AUM Taylor Center 221-223. The community is invited to this free event featuring food tastings, cultural performances, and exhibits from around the world.

Monday, April 15

Get Organized -- Also April 22 & 29 6-7:30 p.m. Fee $69. Spring is almost here; it’s time to clean and organize your home. This class will give you great tips on how to organize/de-clutter your kitchen, bathroom, and closets. Call 334-244-3804, visit www. ce.aum.edu, or e-mail conedinfo@aum.edu to register.

Thursday, April 18

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “Streight’s Raid and The Making of a Confederate Heroine,” presented by Keith S. Hebert. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Autauga County PALS Electronic Recycling Event Autauga County PALS and C E & E Solutions of Prattville host a Monthly Electronic Recycling Drop-off third Thursdays at Pratt Plaza, from 3-6 pm. Recycle your old, broken, or obsolete TVs ($10), cell phones, radios, stereos, computers, laptops, cameras, toaster ovens, microwaves, vcrs, remotes, printers, scanners, pagers, tape recorders, vacuums, irons, hair driers, keyboards, monitors, projectors, video games, speakers, server hubs, turntables, CD/ DVD players, etc. Divert old electronics from the landfill, free up storage space, & create jobs by recycling. ($10 fee for TVs). CE&E (568-9621) is registered with ADEM as an electronic recycler. For details, call John-Paul (3586749). The Millbrook Community Players Present The Cemetery Club -- Through April 27 7:30 p.m. performances except for April 21 @ 2 p.m. Three Jewish widows meet once a month for tea before going to visit their husband’s graves. Ida is sweet tempered and ready to begin a new life, Lucille is a feisty embodiment of the girl who just wants to have fun, and Doris is priggish and judgmental, particularly when Sam the butcher enters the scene. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com for ticket information. Wetumpka Depot Presents The Fantasticks Through May 4 Come see why this play is the longest continuously running theatrical production in the world! At the heart of its breathtaking poetry and subtle sophistication is a purity and simplicity that speaks to audiences of every age, gender and background. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and at 2 p.m. April 28. Tickets may be reserved by calling the Depot at 334-8681440 or by visiting www.wetumpkadepot.com.

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Family Calendar Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents God of Carnage -- Through May 19 Tony Award winner written by Yazmina Reza. Two couples meet for a civil discussion about a playground fight between their sons. The conversation quickly disintegrates into a laugh-out-loud train wreck of an afternoon among savages. This raucous smash hit comedy about adults behaving badly was hailed as a “four-way prize fight” by The New York Times. Marriage, decorum – and the funny bone – take a direct hit in this ebullient Tony Award winner. Recommended for ages 13+. For ticket info, visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.

Friday, April 19

Freebie Friday at the Montgomery Biscuits 7:05 start time. Kids eat FREE plus MAX fireworks spectacular! Visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call 3232255 for details. Crater Crawl 5K, Fun Run and Street Dance 6:30-9 p.m. Hosted by the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce. Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. and the course will wind along Wetumpka’s downtown and riverfront areas for a unique glow-in-the-dark race experience the whole family can enjoy. Behind Wetumpka City Administration Building. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Around the World in 80 Days -- Through May 19 Written by Mark Brown based on the novel by Jules Verne. The classic adventure is brought to vibrant life in this fun-filled adaptation. Charging elephants, raging typhoons and runaway trains challenge Phileas Fogg in his race against time. Will he circumnavigate the globe in 80 days or will the cunning Detective Fix dash his hopes? Recommended for ages 10+. For ticket info, visit www. asf.net or call 271-5353.

April 2013

Saturday, April 20

St. Bede’s Annual Lebanese Food Festival 5-7 p.m. at the St. Bede Elementary cafetorium on Atlanta Highway at Perry Hill Road. Authentic Lebanese cuisine will be served, including dinner plates, Kibee sandwiches, ala carte items for takeout and a silent auction. Proceeds from the Festival benefit the many community outreach programs of Montgomery Catholic Social Services. For more info and advance tickets, contact Catholic Social Services at 288-8890, Ext. 219 or 201-2330. Wetumpka Craterfest 2013 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Gold Star Park and Riverfront. Sponsored by Creek Casino Wetumpka and Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce. Headlined by country music artist Keith Anderson. Advancing awareness of Wetumpka’s Impact Crater, recreation and tourism through music, crafts, lectures and more in a modern festival the whole family can enjoy! Call (334) 567-4811 or e-mail info@ wetumpkachamber.org Alabama Book Festival 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in Kiwanis Park at Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus St. The grounds open at 9 a.m. A special readers theatre will be held 4-4:45 p.m. The theme this year is food, in recognition of the Year of Alabama Food as designated by the Alabama Tourism Department. The event is free and open to the public. See www.alabamabookfestival.org. Bark in the Park (rain date is April 21) 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cooter’s Pond Park, Prattville. The Department of Leisure Services & the Prattville-Autauga Humane Society host a fun-filled day for the whole family — bring your favorite furry friend or adopt one! (Make sure pets are up to date on shots & on a leash.) Prizes for Best Costume, Pet/owner Look Alike, Smallest Dog & Largest Dog (depending on what donations are received prior to the event). Visit local vets, pet product vendors, pet stores, dog exhibitions & concessions! Door

Prizes! Bake Sale. Many children’s activities. On-site adoption team with animals looking for forever homes! Concessions will be sold. Call (334) 361-3640. 2013 Alabama Flora and Fauna Arts Festival 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Albama Nature Center’s Lanark in Millbrook. Visit www.alabamawildlife.org or call 1-800-8229453 for details. Joy to Life - Walk of Life 8:30 a.m. in downtown Montgomery. Your donations, contributions and support of this event benefit the Joy to Life Foundation, whose mission is to provide life-saving mammograms for medically underserved women in Alabama. For more info, visit www.joytolife.org French & Indian War Encampment -- Through April 21 Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson State Park, Wetumpka. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Visit www. preserveala.org or call 567-3002 for more info.

Sunday, April 21

Gloria! Montgomery Chorale Spring Concert 2:30 p.m., Stakely Sanctuary, First Baptist Church. The Montgomery Chorale will be joined by the Montgomery Youth Chorale and a professional orchestra to present settings of the Gloria, an ancient hymn of worship and praise of God. The Youth Chorale will sing Vivaldi’s beloved Gloria, with men from the Chorale, and the Chorale will present several settings of the Gloria, including the opening chorus from the Gloria of Bach’s B Minor Mass. The featured work of the concert will be Francis Poulenc’s animated and exciting setting of the text. Tickets are $15/$10 and may be reserved and purchased at montgomerychorale.org, from Chorale members or by calling (334) 265-3737.

Wednesday, April 24

12th Annual AUM Holocaust Program 9:30 a.m.-noon, AUM Athletics Complex. AUM will

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host its Holocaust Education Program in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Central Alabama. Activities will include the screening of a film, presentation of high school essay contest winners, stories from Holocaust survivors, and a candlelight memorial for the 11 million victims of the Holocaust. The event is ADA-adapted. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Sheila Guidry at 334-244-3306 or sguidry@aum.edu.

Thursday, April 25

Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. This month’s luncheon will feature a Spring Fashion Show. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon April 22 to russell. cynthia98@yahoo.com or call 300-4949. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange Proclaims Parental Alienation Awareness Day At noon, the Alabama Family Rights Association (ALFRA) requests you take 10 minutes to blow Bubbles for Love in support of Parental Alienation Awareness in an effort to educate the public about this form of child abuse. Parental Alienation is recognized as the “systematic” brainwashing of children with the sole purpose of destroying a loving relationship with a parent. It deprives children of their right to love and be loved by both parents. ALFRA works to increase awareness of Parental Alienation as a common form of child abuse. Parental Alienation can arise from divorce, child custody situations and even with intact families. The most common symptom of children affected by Parental Alienation is their severe opposition to contact with one parent and/or overt hatred toward that parent for little or no reason. Summer Camp Open House for Special Needs Students in the Tri County Area 5-7 p.m. at 1900 Brooks Street in Montgomery.Grades 6 through 12. This Open House is for a Full Day Camp (7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.) running May 28-August 9. There is a $50 registration fee that will be applied to the first week’s tuition. Weekly tuition is $80 and includes lunch and two snacks. Contact Lisa at (334) 651-1292 for more info.

Saturday, April 27

Capital City Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Frazer United Methodist Church, corner of 6700 Atlanta Highway and Burbank Drive. Great deals and garden demonstrations. Heirloom plants, garden items, vegetables and herbs, annuals and perennials, trees and shrubs. Gardening questions answered by Master Gardeners. Free soil testing kits available. Free demonstrations. 9 a.m. How to Plant Tomatoes; 11 a.m. Using Herbs; 1 p.m. Container Gardening. Pike Road Spring Clean-Up 8-10 a.m. Call Town Hall at (334) 272-9883 if you’d like more information on the Adopt-A-Mile program. Capital of Dreams Triathlon and Kids Duathlon Also April 28 Downtown Montgomery at the Riverfront. The Kids Duathlon will be held on Saturday. There will be two race distances offered on Sunday. Visit team-magic.com/ events/capitalofdreams/ to register.

Sunday, April 28

Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Enjoy the Museum and a little jazz on a Sunday afternoon. This event is a partnership with Alabama Roots Music Society. Admission is free. For more info, visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333. Family Art Affair at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to the Museum for these special FREE fun days, combining music, art and more! For more info, visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333.

Tuesday, April 30

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Twelfth Night -- Also May 9 Drink in the festive spirit that intoxicates Shakespeare’s

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Family Calendar Twelfth Night. Shipwrecked in Illyria, Viola abandons her station in society and dresses as a page to serve in Orsino’s court. Love ensues, foolery abounds, identities cross and laughter swells. An abridged adaptation. Recommended for ages 12+. For ticket info, visit www.asf. net or call 271-5353.

Thursday, May 2

The Addams Family at Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts 7 p.m. Musical comedy featuring Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and Lurch. Come meet the family! For more info241-9567 or tickets, call visit trojan.troy.edu/community/davistheatre/shows.html.

Friday, May 3

Larry the Cable Guy and Bill Engvall 7:30-9:30 p.m. Garrett Coliseum. Buy tickets at Ticketmaster.com, Publix on Vaughn Rd., Zelda Rd. and the Garrett Coliseum Office. For more info, visit www. thegarrettcoliseum.com Prattville Cityfest -- Also May 4 Historic downtown Prattville. 7-11 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. For more info, visit www.prattvillecityfest. com or call (334) 365-7392. Cloverdale Playhouse Theater Presents Androcles and the Lion -- Through May 5 Adapted by Aurand Harris and directed by Sam Wootten, Androcles and the Lion is a delightful play that has been performed around the world! Featuring six young actors, Aesop’s fable skyrockets with comedy and glows with the warmth of friendship. For tickets or more information, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org

Saturday, May 4

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Randy Houser 8 p.m. Houser was named Country Aircheck’s No.1 New

April 2013

Country Artist in terms of airplay for “Anything Goes” in 2009. He was also a presenter and nominee at both the ACM Awards (Video of the Year for “Boots On”) and the CMA Awards (New Artist of the Year Music Video of the Year) as well as earning a nomination for the 2010 CMT Music Awards. For tickets or more info, visit www. mpaconline.org or call 481-5100. Montgomey Museum of Fine Arts Flimp Festival Begins at 10 a.m. Tickets are $3 for children; $5 for adults; free for members. Enjoy art-making, music, treasure hunts, chalk art, Quidditch and more. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333. Dino Dig at the Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.- noon (advanced registration required). Participate in an archaeological dig and learn about prehistoric creatures. For more info, call 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo. com.

Thursday, May 9

Taste of the Gardens 2013 5-8 p.m. Southern Homes & Gardens and the American Red Cross present Taste of the Gardens, a benefit for the American Red Cross, held annually at SH&G on Vaughn Road, Montgomery. The 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. Also, items purchased at SH&G will be discounted 20%. Event tickets are $20, and may be purchased from the American Red Cross. For more info and to purchase tickets, contact Kelly Hodges at 2604016; or e-mail kelly.hodges@redcross.org.

Friday, May 10

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Macbeth Also May 18 Written by William Shakespeare. Recommended for ages 13+. For ticket info, visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.

Saturday, May 11

Agape’s Run for a Mom 5K and Fun Run 5K starts at 7:30 a.m.; Fun Run starts at 8:30 a.m. at Vaughn Park Church of Christ. Help us assist women facing crisis pregnancies and families of foster children, domestic adoptions and soon to be added international adoptions. Dedicate your run to your mom, birthmother, adoptive mom, foster mom, or any special woman in your life. For more information, contact Emily at 5K@ agapeforchildren.org or call (334) 272-9466. Register online at www.runforamom.org. Mayfest at the Montgomery Zoo with BTW 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Held in partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet School, Montgomery. For more info, call 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com.

Sunday, May 12

Mother’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo All moms receive FREE admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. For more info, call 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents To Kill a Mockingbird -- Through May 18 Written by Christopher Sergel; adapted from the novel by Harper Lee. Set in Depression-era Monroeville, and told through the voice of the beloved tomboy Scout, this Pulitzer Prize-winning tale embodies the life-long lessons of childhood, fairness and the courage to stand up for what is right, no matter the cost. Recommended for ages 8+. For ticket info, visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.

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

Business Card Directory

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Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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Home Based Business Directory The Piano Man

Piano Tunings, Repair, Estimates, and Appraisals Active member of Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. 334-569-9662 or www.pianoman.net/al

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

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

iEasy Math Tutoring

Piano Lessons

Make the Joy of Music Yours

Please call 274-0324

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

MaryCare Adult Day Care Home

Win Before College Grades 7—12 ACT/SAT Call 334-868-3979

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

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

Tutoring Services

Lucky Lawns

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All you need is a phone and a computer with internet access; Extensive Training Included Call 334-245-4196. Chemistry Tutor

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Advanced Placement Chemistry Honors Chemistry General Chemistry

Saxon Lawn Service

Grades 1-6 (Current Teacher) Mrs. Debra Taylor 334-590-2098 hdtaylor101@charter.net

For the Summer and also Spring Break Will keep children any age Please call Patricia Thomas at 901-395-7285.

Does your child need extra help with reading and math skills? I’m an experienced school teacher of more than 15 years and work with patience and understanding. I work with children from pre-K through 3rd grade. Call Cynthia Henderson at 334.201.9524 or 334.239.9630 or email cynthiaahenderson@gmail.com.

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

Math & Reading Tutor

Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

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

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

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

Shanna Culpepper Independent Sr. Consultant We sell purses, totes, organizing products and more! Most of our items can be personalized! Host a girls night out and earn FREE products or join my team and earn extra cash! 334-850-2439 www.mythirtyone.com/shannac

Knitting & Crocheting Lessons

Just Can’t Do It All?

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

Harrison Cares Errand Service can help! If it has to get done but not necessarily by you, we can help! From pick up to delivery, grocery shopping to scheduling appointments, we make your life easier. Focus on what means the most to you and let us do the running! Reasonable rates. Contact Monette Harrison at 317-603-3257 or 334-578-4840 or msmonetteh@gmail.com.

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

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HELPFUL

Advertising Information

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

Welcome to the Montgomery Parents’ Advertiser Directory. This section was created to help our readers easily access advertising information in our magazine. We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name. A Great Start Learning Academy, 67

First Presbyterian Kindergarten, P’ville, 64

New Park, 9

Adventure Sports II, 81

First UMC, Montgomery, 80

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 44

Alabama Army National Guard, 87

First UMC, Prattville, 91

PALS, 18

Alabama Behavioral Health Assoc., 93

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 14

Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters, 92

Alabama Christian Academy, 1

Frazer Memorial Kindergarten, 64

Pediatric Cardiology, 90

Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front

Fun on the River, 2nd Saturday, 29

Petrunic Orthodontics, 44

Alabama Museum of Natural History, 22

Greengate School, 43

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 49

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, 59

Pump It Up Party, 91

Aldersgate UMC Child Care, 67

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 28

River Region Straw, 19

Arts in Motion, 86

Honey B Photography, 57

Riverview Camp, 75

ASKIN/Synergy House, 93

Hooper Academy, 26

Rolling Video Games, 87

ASU Continuing Education, 46

Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 79

Ross Christian Academy, 18

AUM Continuing Education, 42

Huntingdon Football Camp, 41

Saint James School, 19

Auditory/Visual Enhancement, 89

Huntington Learning Center, 53

Saint James UMC, Inside Back Cover

Baptist Health, 3

Kazoo Toys, 53

Schlotzsky’s, 77

Bradford Health Services, 4

Kindercare, 69

Bruster’s Ice Cream, 79

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 60

Kingry Orthodontics, 87

Camp ASCCA, 45

Kumon East, 2

Shade Tree Riding Academy, 35

Cancer Care Center, 13

Kumon Central, 45

Catoma Baptist Church Preschool, 72

Lakeview Child Development, 93

Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 75

Learning Tree Child Care, 72

Century 2000 Daycare, 68

Lori Mercer Photography, 59

Chapman Orthodontics, 26

Mary Kay-Didi Henry, 93

Churchill Academy, 39

Mathnasium, 38

Cupcake Castles Travel, 92

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 68

Dancewear, Etc., 93

Montessori @ Hampstead, 71

Dentistry for Children, 34

Montessori @ Mulberry, 63, 93

Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 22

Montessori Academy, 73

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 77

Montgomery Catholic School, 11

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 14

Montgomery Humane Society, 8

E & S Hobbies, Inc., 93

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 89

Eastdale Mall, 7

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 81

Edgewood Academy, 50

Montgomery Taekwondo, 93

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 90

Montgomery Zoo, 48

Evangel Christian Academy, 37

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 92

Family Karate Center, 30

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes at, 17

Family Sunshine Center, 23

My Kids Attic Women’s Consignment, 39

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

Smiles Galore Parties, 33

Southlawn Childcare Center, 63 Spacewalk of Montgomery, 57 Spacewalker, The, 50 Spotless Cleaning Services, 56 Success Unlimited Academy, 31 Sylvan Learning Center, 25 Take Shape for Life, Laura Dean, 16 Taylor Made Gaming, 88 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 86 The Big Green Bus, 92 The Little Language, 33 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 34 Trinity Presbyterian School, 21 Trinity Presbyterian Church Preschool, 71 Twisted Spur, 88 United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 77 Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 70 Vaughn Road Preschool, 66 www.montgomeryparents.com

The Croods

Admission

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: BSexual Content: ALanguage: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated The Croods PG for some scary action. Every dad likely feels like a troglodyte in the eyes of his children at one point or another, but Grug (voice by Nicholas Cage) really is a cave man. And as the father of the sole surviving family in their community he’s determined to protect his wife (voice by Catherine Keener) and offspring, even if it means spending most of their time in a dark, cold cave. His daughter Eep (voice by Emma Stone), however, yearns for sunshine and adventure. In the eyes of her parent, her curiosity is her biggest weakness in their hostile environment. But while Grug is prepared to protect his daughter from wild beasts and falling rocks, he hasn’t made provisions for Guy (voice by Ryan Reynolds). The handsome young Neanderthal (aptly named to represent every boy who steals a daughter’s heart from her father) shows up with a new invention called fire and a warning that the world is about to end. True to Guy’s prediction, the family’s world, at least as they know it, ends when their cave is destroyed and they are forced to set out on a family road trip to find a new dwelling. Like the redheaded heroine in Brave, Eep strains against parentimposed limits and rules. But she never puts her family at risk in quite the same way. The journey to find a new way of life becomes a family adventure for the Croods with each individual growing and contributing. Even Eep’s little brother Thunk (voice by Clark Duke), her baby sister Sandy (voice by Randy Thom) and her grandmother (voice by Cloris Leachman) evolve by the end of this story. Their adventures, replete with great humor for both children and adults, give viewers plenty to laugh about. However the youngest of audience members may be frightened by the occasional peril from lightening, flesheating flowers and hungry animals that these cave dwellers are exposed to. Rocks, sticks and fists also become weapons in the hands of the Croods and although most attacks are aimed at beasts, the occasional punch is thrown between family members. Despite the limited thoughts the characters supposedly have, they are never short on heart. And while the Croods may be simple in terms of modern lifestyles, they are a pretty sophisticated group when it comes to appreciating the value of family.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: BSexual Content: C Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated Admission PG-13 for language and some sexual content. Getting into Princeton University apparently depends on a good advocate in the Admission Office as much as a great academic record -- although a spot on a sailing team doesn’t hurt. Unfortunately Jeremiah Balakian (Nat Wolff), an unconventional student from an alternative high school located in the backwoods, has terrible grades, a blotched school record and, for all we know, an aversion to water. Still his teacher, John Pressman (Paul Rudd), thinks this voracious reader and self-taught scientist might just flourish in Princeton’s academic environment if he can only get in. To help with the process, John makes a special call to the prestigious university and invites one of their employees to visit for a first hand look at his Quest program, that includes constructing water purification systems and playing midwife to a cow. Portia Nathan (Tina Fey) gets the assignment. For Portia, life is neat, tidy and nice. Her job serves her well. She peruses applications all day without ever having to interact with actual students. But things start to unravel when she steps into the dusty barn that houses the Quest classrooms. Amazingly John finds Portia attractive, although it’s difficult to see why, other than her obvious influence in the admission’s process. She meanwhile seems content to slap a big red DENY stamp on anything that pushes her outside her comfort zone and real life does just that. To be truthful, it’s hard to feel empathy for anyone in this story. And even the occasional laughs don’t make up for these namby-pamby characters that whine their way through the film. However ethical issues (along with a sexual expletive and other profanities) may be the film’s biggest problem after Portia blatantly breaks school protocol in favor of a student she suspects may be the baby she gave up for adoption when she herself was in college. While these university officials make fun of hovering parents and their extreme efforts to get their children into Princeton, it’s hard to believe those endeavors aren’t necessary after seeing the shenanigans that happen behind the closed doors of this Admission office.

What Parents need to know about Admission...

Violence: A woman fires a gun at a man. Adults argue briefly. A woman runs into a parked car. Brief moments of peril occur. Sexual Content: Characters breakup after living together for 10 years when the man gets another woman pregnant. Couples kiss and hug. A couple is shown in separate stalls in a large showering complex. Two different unmarried couples sleep together. One couple is shown in bed together. A woman makes a comment about “getting lucky”. A woman wears a low cut shirt. Language: The script contains a strong sexual expletive, mild sexual comments, frequent profanities, vulgar comments and scatological slang along with terms of Deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink with dinner and at social gatherings. References to drugs and tobacco are included. Other: Characters engage in unethical behavior that includes changing school records, failing to reveal conflicting interests and dishonesty. Characters help deliver a cow’s calf.

What Parents need to know about The Croods...

Violence: A character’s clothes start on fire. Flames sweep across the landscape burning everything. An earthquake causes rocks to fall and threaten the lives of several characters. A character pulls out a knife as protection from a threatening human. Characters are chased by a wild bird after attempting to steal her egg. A character is hit by lightening twice. A character rolls off the edge of a cliff. Characters burn themselves and are cut by sharp rocks. Characters experience infrequent slapstick style violence and mild peril. One character chokes another. Sexual Content: A female character wears a slightly scanty outfit. Dad’s underwear is exposed after an altercation with a wild animal. Language: None noted. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2013

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