Montgomery Parents August 2015 by KeepSharing

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Montgomery Parents I August 2015

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August2015

Volume 20 Number 8

50 Columns

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

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Your Teen & Nicotine Start Smart This John Rosemond shares his best School Year advice on how to handle your smoking or dipping teenager.

Nine tips from teachers to kick the school year off right.

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen

38 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

42 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Andre L. Harrison

46 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

48 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Fun Once the Bell Rings

The benefits of plugging your kids into afterschool activities, plus DIY tips for fun at home!

After School Activities Guide

Our listing offers a variety of places to sign your kids up for activities in the River Region.

On The Cover These students are excited to kick off the 2015-2016 school year at the brand new Pike Road School. Pictured are: Koby (red polo) and Kole (white polo) Jefferson, along with Luke and Lily Kate Vinson. Twins, Koby and Kole are entering 5th grade. Their parents are Quinton and Renita Jefferson and they have an older brother, Keith. Luke and Lily Kate Vinson are the children of Brent and Aimee Vinson. Luke is beginning 4th grade and Lily Kate will be going into 2nd. They have a younger brother, Walker. 5

54 Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

58 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 77 Calendar/Support Groups 87 Advertiser Directory 88 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Editor’sNote It’s time to go Back to School and that means dif-

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

ferent things for different families. Some will drop a child off at Kindergarten for the first time, and drive away with a few tears and a glowing pride about their “big kid”. Other families will watch their children walk in the doors of middle or high school and anticipate how much they

Montgomery Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Montgomery Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

will grow and change during the teen years. And still other parents will send their child to college and wonder as they drive away, How in the world do I have a kid in college? No matter where you are in your parenting journey, Back to School brings with it excitement, anticipation and, yes, a little anxiety. Some kids can’t wait for the first day of school while others fear having to make new friends or being away from Mom and Dad. Our four-year-old would go to her school every day if she could, and often asks us on the weekends when it will be time to go back and see her friends. On the other hand, our 14-year-old can’t believe summer is almost over and doesn’t look forward to getting back into the routine of going to bed (and getting up) early, or the onset of school work and homework. In this month’s issue, we want to help prepare your family for re-entry into the school year, and first up is Christa Hines’ article, 9 Tips From Teachers to Kick

the School Year Off Right. Who better than teachers themselves to offer us advice for embarking successfully on another school year? Christa also shares her article, Fun Once the Bell Rings, where she discusses the value of after school pursuits and offers ideas for structured and DIY activities for your kids. Following her article is our 2015 After School Activities Guide, which is chock-full of interests your kids can explore, plus info on cost and how to register. You’ll find numerous

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen Karen Doles, M.D. Laura Handey Andre L. Harrison Christa Melnyk Hines Kerrie McLoughlin Carolyn Jabs John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com

River Region opportunities for sports, horseback riding, martial arts, dance/gymnastics, tutoring, art, music and so much more. Please take note of our advertisers listed in the guide, look to their ad for further details, and give them a call or a visit. We know our advertisers, in particular, are ready to serve your family! Other articles that fall into our back to school theme nicely are Forming Friend-

ships: From Toddler to Teen and this month’s Growing Up Online, where Carolyn Jabs discusses, The New Peer Pressure. Kids Health Watch updates us on head lice and how we can avoid this seemingly ever-present school year problem, and John Rosemond offers advice on Your Teen & Nicotine. So whether you have a little one heading off to “big school” for the first time or a teen who’ll be faced with new challenges and making smart choices, we’ve got you covered in our August issue. So, enjoy your last few lazy days of summer! All of us at Montgomery Parents

Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Savannah Bowden Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch

hope you have a fun and successful “Back to School” month! Member

DeAnne

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2015 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Your Teen & Nicotine Q: We just discovered that our 17-year-old is using nicotine. He tells us he’s been using for the past several months, smoking two to four cigarettes a day to cope with academic anxiety and relationships. He tends to be socially reserved and has been struggling with academics of late. He appears contrite and remorseful and has said “I should never have gotten started with this stuff in the first place.” On the other hand, he’s also confessed that the only reason he would quit is because it upsets us. Can you give us some insights into this problem and tips on how to assist him in his recovery? A: My guess, knowing this age and gender quite well, is that your son is playing the victim insincerely. If I’m correct, his objective is to confuse the issue and cause you insecurity concerning your response. And he is definitely succeeding. Let’s be clear on a few things. First, he is probably smoking more than he’s admitting. If he admits to four cigarettes

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

a day, he’s probably smoking as many as ten. Second, it is very doubtful that your son began smoking or is continuing to smoke in order to cope with anything. In all likelihood, he began because certain of his friends are smoking and he feels that’s what he has to do in order to be accepted. If I’m correct, then the only thing he’s using cigarettes to cope with is peer pressure. Third, he is telling you the truth when he says that he would only consider quitting because it upsets you. What that means is that the benefits of smoking outweigh the costs. His use of the term “consider” means exactly that: he will think about quitting, but in the end, he probably won’t. That’s refreshingly frank, actually. I may not need to tell you (or the average reader) any of the following, but I will anyway: In addition to the fact that nicotine is highly addictive—some addiction experts claim that it’s more addictive (harder to quit) than

heroin—smoking is decidedly bad for one’s health and quality of life, both in the short and long term. Furthermore, the negative effects of smoking for even several years during late adolescence and young adulthood may not show up until one’s middle years. In other words, the fact that three out of four high school students who smoke continue to do so well into adulthood is deceptive because closer to four out of four will damage themselves permanently in some way. Here’s how to call his bluff (if in fact he is bluffing): Introduce him to nicotine gum or lozenges (obtained without prescription from most drug stores), saying, “If this is about nicotine and not cigarettes, then this product will satisfy your craving. If it doesn’t, then I will know this is really about going along with your foolhardy friends.” If after beginning to use the gum/lozenges he stops smoking, fine and dandy. If he doesn’t stop smoking, then cut him off. Stop giving him money. In addition, confiscate his cell phone and suspend his driving privileges until he shows no evidence of smoking for at least a month. Hopefully, those consequences will override peer pressure. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions at www.johnrosemond.com and parentguru.com.

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MPAC Presents Diamond Rio

Montgomery Biscuits Family Events

Autograph Day August 8 * 6:35 p.m. Meet your favorite Biscuit and snag an autograph at the Montgomery Advertiser Autograph Day! The Biscuits will be available to sign autographs from 5-6 p.m. on the field at Riverwalk Stadium. Kids Day August 9 & 23 * 5:35 p.m. start Bring out the kids and join us for pre-game catch on the field and post-game Coke Kids Run the Bases! Dollar Dog Tuesday August 11 & 25 * 7:05 p.m. start Join us for a game and $1 hot dogs! River Region College Night August 27 * 7:05 p.m. start All local college students and alumni are invited to come out and show their pride for the colleges in the River Region!

Thursday, Sept. 10* 7:30-9:30 p.m. Pack a picnic and invite your family and friends to come enjoy an evening of Broadway hits performed by the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra amidst the beauty of the Blount Cultural Park. This FREE event takes place lakeside at the park in front of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Come early and bring your lawn chairs, coolers and blankets for this family-friendly event. The concert is generously sponsored by Regions Bank. For more info, call (334) 240-4004 or visit www.montgomerysymphony.org/. Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Vicarious Vacations at Old Alabama Town Saturday mornings August 1-29 Free admission. 11 a.m.-noon. Beat the heat with a weekly “journey” to exotic locations, all from the comfort of Hobbs Auditorium at Old Alabama Town. Learn about distant lands as our seasoned travelers take you all over the world, from the Maldives to Turks and Caicos. August 1: Cruising from Santiago to Buenos Aires; Aug. 8: Exploring Underground Alabama; Aug. 15: An Escape to the Maldives; Aug. 22: Trekking El Camino de Santiago; and Aug. 29: Finding Paradise in Turks and Caicos. Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500 for more information.

Montgomery Dragon Boat Race & Festival

August 29 * 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Almost 80 teams will converge downtown at the Montgomery Riverfront Park to paddle and party on Race Day in the pursuit of the Grand Championship Trophy while supporting the missions of two local beneficiaries, Bridge Builders Alabama and Rebuilding Together Central Alabama. Riverfront Park will be alive with music, entertainment, and more than 30 local vendors, artists and exhibitors while teams compete on the water. For more info, visit montgomerydragonboat. org/ or call (334) 625-9411. 10

August 15 * 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Six-time Vocal Group of the Year, Diamond Rio has sold more than 10 million albums earning three platinum and five gold records and won the Country Music Association’s Vocal Group of the Year award four times as well as netting two Academy of Country Music Awards in the top Vocal Group of the Year category and 13 Grammy nominations. Hits include “Meet in the Middle,” “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” “Norma Jean Riley,” “Beautiful Mess,” “Love a Little Stronger” and “One More Day.” Tickets are $32 and may be purchased at www.mpaconline.org or by calling (334) 481-5100.

Buckmasters Expo

August 14-16 Shop for hunting bargains from more than 300 exhibitors and vendors who are all a part of the biggest hunting sale ever! Experts from top manufacturers such as Mathews, Yamaha, Nikon and Easton will be manning booths. Watch the nation’s best archers compete in the Top Bow World championship, presented by Mathews Archery. Bring your kids to the Young Bucks area for games, huntingrelated activities, mascots Bucky and Droptine, Balloon Man and much more. Admittance to the expo is free with a donation of a canned good per person. The expo is open from 3-9 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. For more info, visit www.buckmasters.com.

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Audition to Dance with Moscow Ballet!

Tuesday, September 8, at 6:30 p.m. Tonya Speed Dance Connection 3370 Harrison Rd., Montgomery. Register to audition for Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker at Nutcracker. com/audition. For ages 7-16. Call (334) 277-1098 or e-mail ucantap2@charter. net for more info. Performance will be held Tuesday, November 24, at 7 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre.

Magical Creatures Education Program

Saturday, August 8 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. You will get a chance to meet animals up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself. Geared for boys and girls, age 4-10 years old. Reservations are required. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo. com for more info.

August 7 & 8 * 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday and 6 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday All four Montgomery Wal-Mart locations. Bombshell Media Group hosts this annual school supply campaign to support the Montgomery Public School system. The goal is to collect school supplies and uniforms for children in need. All donations will be equally divided and distributed to local schools in the Montgomery area. We invite local residents and businesses to bring donated school supplies and literally “stuff” the bus with them. Supplies being collected include notebook paper (wide and college rule), spiral notebooks, No. 2 pencils, pens, crayons, scissors, glue, colored pencils, rulers, composition books, protractors, pocket folders, pocket folds with clasps, and backpacks (small and large) as well as teaching supplies such as dry eraser markers, color pens, copy paper, markers and reward stickers. For info, email bombshellmediagroup@gmail.com or call (334) 416-8458.

Military Open House @ the Art Museum

August 20 * 5:30-7:30 p.m. All active, reserve and retired military personnel and their families are invited to the Museum for an evening of family fun. Guests will enjoy art-making activities, music and dinner catered by Wintzell’s Oyster House. The galleries and ARTWORKS will be open for everyone to enjoy. This event is our way of saying thank you for your service and is free for all military families. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333 for more info.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Busting Head Lice Myths Head lice may be two of the most dreaded words for a parent to hear. What could be more disgusting than finding out your child has bugs crawling around on his head? It’s awful. Now, let’s dispel some of the lice myths! 1. Dirty people get lice. WRONG! I would like to hope my family and friends who have had lice qualify as clean people. As it turns out, lice love clean hair. It is recommended to make your child’s hair artificially dirty by adding some product such as detangler spray, hair spray, or gel. These help repel lice, especially if you mix some tea tree oil into the product. You can also add the tea tree oil directly to your shampoo or conditioner. There is also a line of products called Fairy Tales that contain lice repellents. 2. Lice jump from head to head like fleas. FALSE! Lice only “walk”. They don’t fly or jump. So you don’t have to fear being in the same room as someone with lice. Just don’t rub your heads together! A simple hug or being in the same vicinity is not enough contact to spread the bugs. Sharing combs and brushes between children, sharing pillows and hats--that is close enough contact! 3. Everything has to be cleaned to get rid of lice. NOPE! Lice only live for ap-

proximately 36 hours without a human host. So, they can’t live in carpets, on furniture, in beds, or on stuffed animals for longer than that amount of time. So, quarantine each child’s room for 48 hours, wash the sheets (no one wants to sleep with dead bugs), and move on knowing there are no more live bugs in there. 4. Lice have to be killed with pesticides and potential neurotoxins. WRONG AGAIN! In fact, no matter what initial method is used to get rid of the pesky creatures, the mainstay of treatment is combing with a nit comb. Day after day after day, for at least three weeks--the life cycle of a louse. There are multiple prescription meds your pediatrician can recommend. New to Montgomery is the “lice doctors” who use an olive oil based treatment program with a 100% guarantee. They come to your house and treat everyone and do the initial lice combing. 5. I treated my child and the rest of my family. Now we are done with this nightmare, right? SORRY. No, you are not. As I already mentioned, it’s a three week process. After the initial treatment, there can still be nits (louse eggs). You will continue to comb these out over the next few weeks, especially the first few days. They can be microscopic when laid, then grow over the

next week or so before they hatch. If you don’t keep combing, the hatched louse will quickly mature over the next week and start laying new eggs. And the vicious cycle starts all over... So, no matter what treatment you pick initially, keep combing! 6. I got a hug from someone who recently had lice. Now I’m infested! NO, YOU ARE NOT! Once a person is treated initially and the live bugs are removed, they are no longer contagious. If there is not a bug to crawl off of their head and onto your head, you cannot get it from that person. Remember, the bugs cannot live very long off of heads, and nits (the louse eggs) cannot survive and hatch without the warmth of a human scalp. A newly hatched louse requires an immediate blood meal to survive. So, if a nit is removed, it can’t survive. So, the next time you hear about someone with lice, don’t freak out! Remember, they are not going to jump on you from across the room or come flying in droves into your hair! Dr. Karen Doles is a board certified pediatrician practicing at Professional Pediatrics in Montgomery, Alabama. She completed her medical degree at the University of Tennessee in Memphis, and her residency at State University of New York in Buffalo. She lives in Montgomery with her husband and three children.

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

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

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

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Ready, Set... GO! Another school year begins on August 13, for Montgomery Public Schools students. I look forward to their return! We have many exciting learning opportunities on tap for our students this school year. However, one of the most critical elements for success is for parents to be involved in their children’s education. We can start today with these strategies: Establish a Routine: If you haven’t already, it is time to get back into the school year routine. Set an age appropriate bedtime. Have a conversation with your children and set clear expectations about homework and study time. Have a set time everyday to read to your younger

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

children and ask your older children to read to you. Plan for the Year: Take a moment to look at the school calendar on the Montgomery Public Schools Website. Just go to www.mps.k12.al.us and click on the SCHOOL Calendar (there are two calendar tabs) at the top of the page. You will see the important dates. Establish Goals: Have a positive and honest conversation with your children. Set goals for grades, reading additional books, family field trips to reinforce lessons, or research on colleges for juniors and seniors? Let your children know what you expect and how you will support them this year. Let them know if they begin to fall behind in any subject, you will work with them and their teachers to get them the help they need. Register for STI Home: Every school uses an online parent connection system called STI Home. Visit your child’s school to receive a password to

access your child’s grades, attendance and discipline records, and even the homework from his teacher’s lesson plan online. There is no cost. Communicate with Your Child’s Teachers: Teachers and parents work together to help students succeed. It is critical that you communicate with teachers throughout the year about your child’s progress. Teachers have email addresses and you can leave telephone messages with the school secretary if you have a question for a teacher. You can also stay in touch by attending PTA meetings and open houses. We look forward to having your child in school and to seeing you at plays, concerts, games, and PTA/PTO meetings. We are expecting great things this year. MPS is on the MOVE! Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

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Montgomery County Schools

Pike Road to Establish Robotics Program

Pike Road School is looking for seventh- and eighth-grade students interested in participating in a competitive robotics program. The program will receive instructions and materials in early September and the competition will be in late October. Interested students will take a one-day field trip to Wetumpka the week of August 6 to learn about the program from Dr. Virginia Villardi, the director of Wetumpka’s award-winning program for the last ten years. Pike Road students will tour the school’s facilities and meet students participating in Wetumpka’s robotics program.

Catholic Middle Cheerleaders Attend Auburn Cheer Camp

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Middle School cheer team attended UCA cheer camp at Auburn University the second week of June. This year’s was the largest summer cheer and tumble camp with more than 600 cheerleaders in attendance. Montgomery Catholic’s group of young athletes received the Overall Superior Trophy, given to only six out of 40 teams that included varsity, junior varsity and other middle schools. The team received Superior Blue Ribbons for every event that the girls were judged on, and placed third in the large squad junior high division. In addition, three Montgomery Catholic team members were selected as All-American Cheerleaders. They are: seventh-grader Cameryn Cool, eighth-grader Kinley Tadlock and eighth-grader captain Alexis Weber. This honor was given to those competing individually with a jump, a dance and a cheer. Having three All-Americans selected from one team is a very impressive accomplishment for such a young team. Finally, MCPS Middle School cheer captain Alexis Weber was selected as a “Pin it Forward” recipient. This pin was given to cheerleaders demonstrating kindness, leadership and character to members of other cheer teams. Back row from left are: Kinley Tadlock, Anna Dubois, Sofie Izer, captain Alexis Weber, Cecilia Hoffpauir, Chloe Weber and Denalie Mosakowski; front row: Elizabeth Speirs, Cameryn Cool, Chandler Ford, Alyssa Kirk, co-captain Gracie Barranco, Anna Sadie, Devan DeRamus and Valerie Waite. The team is coached by Mrs. Judy Barranco.

Got news? Send us your school bits by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I August 2015

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Catholic Hosts Retirement Party for Lynn Downes

On June 23, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School hosted a retirement party for Lynn Jehle Downes in the Middle/High School campus library. Attended by her family, colleagues and long-time friends, Downes said good-bye to Montgomery Catholic after 31 years of dedicated service to the school. She began her role as an administrative assistant in the 1980s to then-high school principal Thomas Doyle. She stayed on with the school as it transitioned to a regional K-12 Catholic school and served under three school presidents: Doyle, Faustin Weber and current president Anne Ceasar in the Business Office. “Lynn epitomizes someone who has a lifelong love for this school, as a student, parent and employee,” Ceasar said. “She has always supported and relished all that is good about Catholic education, and we wish her much happiness in her retirement.” Ceasar presented Downes with a painting by Diddy Vucovich, Madonna and Child, as a gift from the school. Downes is a 1963 graduate of Montgomery Catholic, known at that time as St. Mary of Loretto. Her three sons, Jeff Downes of Vestavia Hills, Greg Downes of Cumming, Ga. and Scott Downes of Atlanta, are all Montgomery Catholic graduates as well. Montgomery Catholic has been a part of her life since first grade. “For all the years I spent as a student at St. Mary’s of Loretto and the years spent as a student at Catholic High, I was blessed with many teachers who instilled in me knowledge, values and special memories that will continue to be in my heart and life forever!” she said. “I cherish those days! Church activities, extracurricular events and school events were my life. While attending Catholic High, I never dreamed that one day I would again be a part of the school which formed my foundation. God led me to Montgomery Catholic 31 years ago.” Before leaving, Downes trained her replacement, Christie Binns. She is shown with her sons, Jeff Downes ‘85, Scott Downes ‘88 and Greg Downes ‘85. 17

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Montgomery County Schools

SUA Expands Fine Arts Department

The Success Unlimited Academy Fine Arts Department has been hard at work this summer developing new programs available to introduce to our students this fall. This past year SUA expanded in the fine art areas with new performance facilities and equipment. “We have been very blessed over the last year,” said Jack Moody, director of SUA Praise Band Warrior. “We were able to purchase a state of the art performance center last year and it was such a joy to see it being used by all of our students. We have been meeting this summer on a regular basis to explore ways to increase the number of students involved and give everyone an opportunity to utilize their God given talents. In July, SUA welcomed Benita Edwards as Fine Arts Director. With the addition of Ms. Edwards, additional plans are being made to have auditions for the SUA Show Choir and Jazz Band. “Our job is to provide the opportunity and confidence for the students to find their area of interest. This is an integral part of the educational experience and one of the most rewarding for those of us fortunate enough to play a part in it,” stated Mr. Moody.

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

5 Catholic Graduates Named AP Scholars

Five recent Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School graduates have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition for their exceptional achievement on AP Exams while they were students at the school. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program (AP) provides opportunities for motivated and prepared students to experience college-level courses while in high school, thereby fostering critical thinking and college persistence and success. Leo Petters earned the title of AP Scholar with Distinction by earning an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and a score of 3 or higher on five or more of the exams. Ann Faulkner and Mary Janet McLaughlin each earned the title of AP Scholar with Honor by earning an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Two students earned the title of AP Scholar by completing three or more AP Exams with grades of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars are Derek Kelly and Brianna Foley. Through more than 30 different college-level courses and exams, research has shown that AP students who score a 3 or higher on AP Exams typically experience greater academic success in college than students who do not participate in AP courses. Derek Kelly is shown.

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Pike Road School Unveils New Logo

Jeff Davis Cheerleaders Take Home UCA Trophies The Jeff Davis cheerleaders, with the help of coaches Martin and Crews, took home two first-place and two second-place trophies, the traditions award, all blue superior ribbons and the banana spirit award from UCA Cheerleader camp at Auburn University June 21-24. Senior Riveria Sumpter was even offered a position with the staff at the close of camp!

Evangel Graduates Sixth-Grade Class

Evangel Christian Academy’s sixthgrade class was promoted to junior high in a special ceremony May 21. The sixthgraders recited Bible verses and sang, honoring their parents with gifts and words of gratitude. They also presented parents with personalized gifts and a special video presentation. The students then took time to thank the teachers who had helped them throughout their elementary years. Valedictorian Arange Clemens and salutatorian Jon Michael Clemens gave speeches marking this milestone in the students’ lives. At the end of the ceremony, each student received a “Promotion to Junior High” certificate and attended a reception with family and friends. Following tradition, the students were whisked away by a limousine at the end of the day.

Pike Road School officials unveiled a new mascot logo during a recent school board meeting. Pike Road will open its doors to its very first student body this August. School Board President Ray Hawthorne says students from all over Montgomery have registered for the school. “We’ll have a bunch of different students from all parts of Montgomery,” Hawthorne said. “Some from public schools, some from private schools, maybe some homeschooled children as well.” Braiden Watkins, for example, is leaving Bear Exploration Center in Montgomery to attend Pike Road. Mayor Gordon Stone says it’s the parents who are bringing everything together. “I think that’s what’s going to make this a great school system, people from every corner of our community,” Stone said. “We’re 16 miles wide and 10 miles deep, and you’ve got people from every location who are engaged already in supporting this school system.” Pike Road will begin as a K-8 school with plans to add a high school grade each subsequent year. For the 2015-16 school year, 950 students are expected to enroll.

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SUA Holds Fine Arts Camp

Success Unlimited Academy held its first Fine Arts Camp July 13-15 at the Vaughn Road campus. Students from SUA as well as the community were in attendance. The camp, led by Liz Lee, assistant fine arts director and Heather Parrish, art instructor, focused on several areas of fine arts such as acting, monologues, and movement. Students enjoyed learning about set design and building their own prototypes. They were introduced to playing the guitar and costume making. Headmaster Susan Alred attended the culminating activity where the students showcased their work from the week. Participants received a group photo and a certificate of attendance. As a special treat, Mrs. Alred gave the students milkshakes! “This was so much fun. I don’t want it to end,” exclaimed Noah Young. “What a great evaluation of the program,” stated Mrs. Lee. SUA is preparing to offer this camp next summer. Make plans to attend! Thank you Mrs. Lee and Ms. Parrish for a job well done.

Evangel Graduates 2015 Senior Class

Evangel Christian Academy’s graduation ceremony was held on May 22. Parents, faculty and friends gathered together to mark this milestone in the students’ lives. Pastor Michael Rippy, senior pastor of Evangel Church and president of ECA, addressed the students and their guests. Valedictorian for the graduating class was Rachel Baxley and salutatorian was Jordan Hunter. During the ceremony, a video presentation was shown highlighting each graduate’s life. After the video, the graduates presented roses to their parents and a reception was held in the students’ honor.

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AUM Invites High School Achievers To Paid Summer Research Program

Auburn Montgomery’s Secondary Student Research Program, which pairs high school students with university faculty for summer research programs, held its annual banquet in July. The banquet included research poster presentations from the students. The SSRP, led by Dr. Pete Haddix, associate professor of biology at AUM, is a paid summer research opportunity for high school students entering their junior or senior years the following fall. Students are mentored under the direction of an AUM faculty member in the School of Sciences. Students learn the basics of scholarly (library-based) research to establish the appropriate contexts for their investigations, and they are trained technically in the performance of laboratory and/or field research. Finally, they present their work to the AUM academic community and other interested persons at the annual banquet. Students accepted into the program are paid a stipend of $1,250 upon successful completion of the program. Fiona Johnson, a student from Churchill Academy, is shown conducting pond research with AUM biology lecturer Michelle Taliaferro. The pair sampled the Duck Pond and Tennis Court Pond to do a quick “snapshot” survey of the aquatic macro invertebrate community structure and function. They sampled aquatic organisms, measured water chemistry parameters, and identified common aquatic plants and algae to answer two questions: what types of organisms live in the two ponds, and how do these organisms compare between the two ponds? (Photo courtesy of University Photographer Frank Williams) More information about the program and how students can apply is available at www.sciences.aum.edu/secondarystudent-research-program.

FAll/Winter‘15 SaleFRIDAY, dates 9/11-9/16 Sept. 11 Wednesday, Sept. 16 we're open: Fri-Wed. 9am-6pm • Sun. 1pm-6pm

Want to make some money too? Become a consignor and receive 65% of the sale price of your items visit our website to find out how to become a consignor, www.childrensclothingexchange.com (Consignor receiving dates 8/29-8/31 & 9/5)

Fabulous Buys on Excellent-Condition Used Children’s Clothing From Sizes Newborn to Juniors, smocked clothes, trunk show items and a selection of new clothes. We also have christmas and halloween themed clothes, Furniture, Shoes, Equipment and Toys. women’s purses, accessories & Jewelry and Home Furnishing Too!

www.childrensclothingexchange.com for more information call anne at 334-462-2591 2260 Eastern Blvd, Next Door to Harbor Freight Tools

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Trinity Teachers Attend iSummit in Atlanta

Several Trinity teachers and administrators recently attended iSummit, which is a 2-day conference retreat sponsored by the Coalition of Lighthouse Schools. The conference focuses on how to leverage technology to enhance one’s mind, body, and spirit. Attendees were able to explore technologies that enhance teaching and learning, mental and physical well-being, and provide service learning opportunities. Photo: (front row left to right) Kandi Tucker, Tiffany McInnis, Linda Fussell, Becky Faulkner, Rosie Sprague, Erin Glover (back row left to right) Jennifer Handey, Kathy Pirtle, Linda Hastey, Jennifer Loard

Success Unlimited Welcomes Benita Edwards to the Staff

Success Unlimited Academy welcomes Benita Edwards to the SUA staff as the Fine Arts Director for the fall of 2015. Ms. Edwards has been developing successful creative arts programming for children to adults for more than 20 years. The Alabama State University graduate brings strong experience in communications, journalism, marketing, and music. “We are excited that she will bring her imaginative energy and expertise to Success Unlimited Academy this fall as our new Fine Arts Director. Most commonly referred to as “Ms. BE” (her initials), often challenges youth to live true to their unique self -- BE Loving, BE Courageous, BE Talented! Her unapologetic and compelling delivery made her a requested guest speaker by the students last spring for chapel and graduation services.” stated Headmaster Susan Alred.

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

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Holy Spirit Celebrates Crunch Contest with Nestle

ECA Inducts New Members Into National Honor Society

Evangel Christian Academy recently conducted its annual induction ceremony for the National Honor Society. The program began with a candlelighting ritual in which scholarship, leadership, service and character, the foundational principles of the organization, were represented. After the candlelighting ceremony, the candidates for induction were then led in the NHS pledge and presented with certificates celebrating their acceptance into the organization. New members are: Kobe Bunting, Brittney Johnson, Caleb Rigsby, Lauren Stehl, Makenzie Whatley, Oaklee Williams, Jordan Hunter, and Kirkland Whatley. They were welcomed by current members Jordan Cartee, Chelsea Martin, Victoria Temple, Carlisha Allen, Rachel Baxley, Taylor Bethea, Darrius Brinson, Jasmine Brown, Courtney Covington, Rebecca Johnson, Alexis Jones, Taylor Jones, Taylor McNeil, Tia McNeil, Quantrice Meadows, Gabriel Moorer, Terra Pierce, Da’Quinaika Smith, Angela Walker and Richard Whitehead.

Each semester, students at Montgomery Catholic’s Holy Spirit Campus are challenged to reach a physical education goal with a great incentive for motivation. In March, Coach Ken Klinger challenged them to complete 2,000 crunches by May 15 and if they did, the students would be treated to a Nestle “Crunch” bar party! Six students reached the goal with a collective 12,660 crunches completed in just two months! Front row from left are first-grader Andrew Zumwalt, fourth-grader Max Barranco and third-grader Addie Zumwalt; and back row, fourthgrader Ivan Klemen, sixth-grader Cameryn Cool and fifth-grader Emily Klinger with Coach Ken Klinger.

Knowledge is profitable because wisdom gives life to those who possess it. ECCLESIASTES 7:12

At Montgomery Catholic, our students flourish in a rigorous academic environment designed to fully develop their individual God-given gifts — while strengthening their lifelong walk in the Christian faith. Enroll now by calling 334-272-7221 ext. 32, or visit www.montgomerycatholic.org. St. Bede Elementary Campus Holy Spirit Elementary Campus Middle School Campus High School Campus www.montgomerycatholic.org

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Saint James Teacher Soars at Space Camp Saint James School sixth-grade teacher Cindy Mullikin attended SPACE CAMP at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, NASA’s official Visitor Information Center for Marshall Space Flight Center, this summer. This educational program promotes science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), while training students and adults with hands-on activities and missions based on teamwork, leadership and decision-making. Mullikin was part of the Space Academy for Educators Program, which is designed for teachers who want to advance education in the STEM fields. She experienced astronaut simulators and took a virtual tour into space to save the International Space Station. Trainees also followed lesson plans based on NASA content (which is correlated to the National Science Education Standards) and received content and knowledge to pass on to their students in the classroom. “I have returned from Space Camp inspired and energized,” Mullikin said. “We spent time with a retired NASA engineer, Dr. Lowell, who shared stories of Mercury, Gemini and Apollo missions. And we interacted with equipment that once belonged to Neil Armstrong and other early astronauts. This was truly a lifechanging experience that I cannot wait to share with my students at Saint James.”

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Space Camp operates year-round in Huntsville, Ala., and uses astronaut-training techniques to engage trainees in realworld applications of STEM subjects. Trainees sleep in quarters designed to resemble the International Space Station and train in simulators like those used by NASA. Nearly 700,000 trainees have graduated from Space Camp since its opening in Huntsville in 1982, including STS-131 astronaut Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger and European Space Agency Astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti. In 2014, children and teachers from all 50 states and 64 international locations attended Space Camp. Shown, Mullikin prepares for simulator training at Space Camp in Huntsville.

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Pike Road School Hires Nutrition Program Director Helping prepare hundreds of meals will be a typical day for Pike Road School’s Child Nutrition Program Director Angela McCormick. “Child Nutrition is a passion, not a job,” said McCormick. “I love getting to make an impact on children’s lives daily. I am thrilled about continuing to pursue my passion at Pike Road.” After completing a dietetic internship with the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE), McCormick developed educational materials for school nutrition programs throughout the State of Alabama. While at the ALSDE, she also managed a $2.8 million, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) annual budget, which allowed lunchrooms across the state to participate in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP.) Her time at the state department of education led her to Montgomery Public Schools (MPS), where she served as the Child Nutrition Program supervisor/nutrition specialist. In addition to planning highly nutritional menus for 51 schools, McCormick developed and maintained USDA-FFVP grants for three MPS schools, and handled all special dietary needs.

As the school system’s first-ever Child Nutrition Program director, McCormick plans to implement unique programs that reach far beyond planning nutritious meals. “I look forward to working bilaterally with the teachers to make the cafeteria an extension of the classroom. I hope to provide nutrition education and work to initiate a school garden, where food grown by PRS students can be eaten in our cafeteria,” said McCormick. The garden won’t quite be producing food by this school year, but students will have an assortment of fresh options to choose from. There will be a salad bar stacked with plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as “grab and go” salad and sandwich meals. In addition to this, the kitchen will serve a “hot option” daily, along with a la carte choices. A variety of breakfast options will also be offered daily. In addition to McCormick, the Pike Road School System

is looking to hire several hard-working people, who have a passion for kids and cooking. Those interested in joining the PRS kitchen staff should mail a resume to Angela McCormick, at P.O. Box 640339, 9575 Vaughn Road, Pike Road, AL 36064. To find out more information about the qualifications for these positions, visit www.pikeroad.us or call (334) 495-4115.

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Catholic Welcomes New Coaching Staff Amy Patterson, below, has been named the new varsity volleyball coach and tennis coach at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School beginning this summer. Patterson comes to Catholic from Huntingdon College, where she served as the head volleyball coach. “Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School has always had my respect. It is a strong institution both academically and athletically. I am truly blessed for the opportunity to join the Montgomery Catholic family. I am eager and excited to get to know my student-athletes and contribute to the continual growth of the volleyball and tennis programs,” she said.

Patterson is a graduate of Huntingdon, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in human performance and kinesiology. She received her Masters in Education at Auburn University in Montgomery in 2003. Robb McGaughey, right, has been named the new varsity boys’ head basketball coach at Montgomery Catholic beginning this summer. He comes to Catholic from Montgomery Academy, where he served as physical education teacher and varsity basketball assistant coach, head middle school and junior varsity basketball coach and assistant middle school football coach since 2009. McGaughey is also a graduate of Huntingdon, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in human performance and kinesiology. He received his Masters of Science Management from Faulkner University in 2002. McGaughey and his wife Kim have been married for 10 years; they have three children, Robert (6), Matthew (2), and Frances.

“I’m excited to build on the history and tradition of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory men’s basketball program,” said McGaughey. “We want to impact them now, but also invest in them for their futures. Our measure of success will be the type of men you see 20 years from now who came through our program.” Montgomery Catholic welcomed the new coaches to campus with a meet and greet in the Middle/ High School Library on May 27. Both Patterson and McGaughey held tryouts for new team members in May also.

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Pike Road Schools Goes Live with Website

Pike Road Schools website is now live. Visit http://www.pikeroadschools.org/ to find the PRS calendar, buy school supplies, and MUCH MORE! There’s even a FAQ page compiled from the very questions many have been asking! We hope this site helps guide you along the “Pike Road Way.” Please keep in mind, new content is continuously being added and some pages are a work in progress. We appreciate your patience and excitement as we continue to prepare for our Patriots.

STJ Senior Named Forensics Finalist

Saint James School rising senior Bradley Wascher, shown below right with Saint James School Forensics Coach, Dr. Ian Turnipseed, had a busy first month of summer break. His forensics achievements at the district tournament this spring qualified him to compete at the National Speech and Debate Tournament in Dallas this summer. Even in the face of extraordinary competition at the national tournament, Wascher placed the highest in finals of any competitor from the state of Alabama and ranked third in the nation for Extemporaneous Commentary. He competed against the best of the best in the country, a pool of 210 competitors, and walked away in the top three, nationally, in his craft. “Bradley has worked hard all year and has dedicated himself to excellence in the field of speech and debate,” said Dr. Turnipseed. “He is a great example of a student committing himself to a goal, accepting coaching, and believing that great success was possible.” While in Dallas, fellow STJ teammate Hayden Cavanaugh ’15, near right with Dr. Turnipseed, also received individual recognition. Cavanaugh has qualified to compete at the national tournament every year of high school. For four consecutive years, he competed on the national level; only 52 students in the entire country were recognized for this prestigious accomplishment. Saint James School had a stellar 2014-2015 year in Speech and Debate, bringing home eight of the 19 state titles this spring and ranking Second Place Overall Team in Alabama. Accolades include State Student of the Year, State Individual Events Team Champions, tied for State Champion Congressional Debate Team, and third place Debate team for the state. The individual team members were widely recognized for their talents, including three 2015 STJ graduates who are attending the University of Alabama this fall on full scholarships through the Alabama Forensics Council.

Contact Kathy King at 334.387.3284

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Trinity Teacher Attends Space Academy for Educators at U.S. Space and Rocket Center

HOOPER ACADEMY Grade Levels K-12

Please visit and see what we have to oﬀer your family! Early Learning Center 6 weeks thru K-4; Before & After School Care If you have any questions please contact Hooper Academy at (334) 288-5980. Hooper is located at 380 Fisher Road, Hope Hull, Alabama, just oﬀ I-65 South.

Headmaster: Greg Faulkner • Asst. Headmaster/Athletic Director: Keith Moore 334-288-5980 • www.hooperacademy.org • HCAinfo@hooperacademy.org

F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADITIONAL WORSHIP 8 : 30 AM & 11: 00 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL 9: 45 AM THE WELL 11:00 AM

www.prattvillemethodist.org Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Trinity teacher and coach, Mrs. Elisa Bowden, of Montgomery, Alabama, recently attended SPACE CAMP® at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, NASA’s official Visitor Information Center for Marshall Space Flight Center. The educational program promotes science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), while training students and adults with handson activities and missions based on teamwork, leadership and decisionmaking. Mrs. Bowden was part of the Space Academy for Educators Program, which is designed for teachers who want to advance education in the STEM fields. Elisa experienced astronaut simulators and took a virtual tour into space to save the International Space Station. Trainees also followed lesson plans based on NASA content (which is correlated to the National Science Education Standards) and received content and knowledge to pass on to their students in the classroom. Educators earn 45 hours of continuing education credit and can potentially earn graduate credit through the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Space Camp and Aviation Challenge crew trainers who lead each 16-member team must have at least a year of college and 67% of the staff are college graduates. Space Camp operates year-round in Huntsville, Alabama, and uses astronaut-training techniques to engage trainees in real-world applications of STEM subjects. Trainees sleep in quarters designed to resemble the ISS and train in simulators like those used by NASA. Nearly 700,000 trainees have graduated from Space Camp since its opening in Huntsville in 1982, including STS131 astronaut Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger and European Space Agency Astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti. Last year, children and teachers from all 50 states and 64 international locations attended Space Camp. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Montgomery Academy Shines at Girls State, Candidate Selected to Girls Nation From June 7-June 12, Montgomery Academy rising seniors Gabbi Pohlman, daughter of Doug and Kelli Pohlman, and Annabel Roth, daughter of Toby and Michelle Roth, participated in Girls State, a government-in-action learning program sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. Girls State representatives are chosen based on their strong leadership abilities, high moral character, exceptional scholastic standing and interest in government and current events. The week-long program, held at The University of Alabama, allows students to learn first-hand how their state and local government works through the creation of a mock state in which they conduct elections, introduce and pass bills, and make and enforce ordinances. At the beginning of the week, the girls were divided into 15 cities and five counties and held elections for county and city offices between the Federalist Party and the Nationalist Party. Gabbi was appointed Adjutant General, a position on the Governor’s cabinet, after running for Governor in the Nationalist party. As a guber-

natorial candidate, she answered questions at Whistlestops and gave a speech to her party emphasizing the Nationalist platform of equality for all, sustainable economic reform, which included promoting small businesses, agriculture and trade professions, and education reform. Gabbi said, “My favorite speakers were Treasurer Young Boozer III and Dr. Marquita Davis. I have been able to use these rewarding lessons at other conferences and camps this summer.” Annabel was elected as the Federalist Party Chairman, leading party meetings and working closely with the Federalist gubernatorial candidates to determine the party’s platform. Once the party chose their candidate, Annabel assisted with the campaign, encouraged voters and introduced the candidate during the Whistlestops. The week concluded with Federalist candidate, Alexandria Hallmark, elected as Girls State Governor and Annabel’s appointment as her Chief of Staff. As a member of the Governor’s cabinet, Annabel was able to meet with Alabama Gover-

nor Robert Bentley and discuss many of the bills that had passed through the house and senate during the week. Of her time at Girls State, Annabel said, “One of my favorite things was debating bills in the house and the senate. I was excited how my bill was one of only six bills that was passed by the house, senate, and eventually became a law!” Annabel Roth will continue her involvement as one of only two representatives from the State of Alabama at Girls Nation, which will be held July 25-August 1, in Washington, D.C. The selection began with each “city” nominating one candidate and from those 15 candidates, two were chosen for Girls Nation. While in D.C., the students will have the opportunity to spend a day on Capitol Hill meeting with state senators and representatives and tour the White House. The Montgomery Academy presence at Girls State is more than just student representatives. Lee Grant Sellers ‘84, is the current director of Girls State. Mrs. Sellers’ involvement with the organization started when she was elected Mayor of her mock city as the Academy representative at Girls State in 1983. Photos: Gabbi and Young Boozer and Annabel Roth

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Carver High School Student Wins National Award

Hooper Academy Termites Attend Millbrook Cheer Clinic

Hooper Academy Termite cheerleaders attended a clinic at Cheer Pro in Millbrook. The girls learned basic jumps, stretches and a dance routine for this year’s upcoming football season at Hooper. The girls will support the Termite football team this year.

Kionna Hooks, a rising sophomore at George Washington Carver High School, won a silver medal at the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) National Leadership Conference in Washington D.C. She was among high school students from 28 Alabama schools who traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in national competitions, attend leadership workshops, and help kick off FCCLA’s 70th anniversary celebration July 6-9. Hooks competed in the Career Investigations event. Carver Hospitality and Tourism Career Academy instructor Lachandra Brooks said her medal is particularly rewarding for her. “This is a special moment for me because I have been a FCCLA adviser for 11 years, and she is the first student who accepted my challenge to compete in STAR Events,” Brooks said. STAR Events (Students Taking Action with Recognition) are competitive events in which members are recognized for proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation. Hooks also had a chance to visit with U.S. Rep. Martha Roby (Rep.-AL) and Sen. Jeff Sessions (Rep.-AL) while in Washington. Alabama FCCLA State Adviser Jennifer Adams said, “Being a part of FCCLA offers students great experiences like this and so much more.”

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Back to School for Sam and Frodo at Holy Cross Episcopal!

Students will soon be back at Holy Cross Episcopal School, and they are not the only ones. Sam and Frodo, the STEM lab parakeets, have been enjoying time away this summer, visiting the homes of various faculty members. With summer break coming to an end, chirping and singing will be heard once again in the hallways of Holy Cross. Sam and Frodo haven’t been relaxing the entire summer. They have spent this summer getting acquainted with their new home. Every graduating class at Holy Cross presents a gift to the school. This year, the Class of 2015 presented the school with a new cage for Sam and Frodo. The parakeets obviously love their new home and look forward to seeing the students and faculty when everyone is back at school in a few days.

Success Unlimited Academy Welcomes New Lower Campus Administration

Susan Alred, Headmaster of Success Unlimited Academy, is pleased to welcome Butch Speed as the new Lower Campus Administrator. Mr. Speed is a1983 graduate of Auburn University and brings to SUA over twenty-five years of administrative experience in team building, marketing and development, financial administration, and project management. He is married to Tonya Speed, and they have two daughters. The announcement of the new administrator coincides with Mrs. Alred’s selection of Bonnie Nail-Cagle, as Assistant Principal. She is married to Donnie Cagle. Mrs. Nail-Cagle’s undergraduate degree is from the University of Alabama. She also holds a Master’s degree from Troy State University in Montgomery. She has taught for the public schools for 35 years and has been with SUA for three years. Success Unlimited has announced exciting news of renovation plans for existing space at the lower campus. This project will include a facelift of classrooms and multi-purpose space. Work is set to begin immediately with completion by SUA’s first day of fall semester on August 17. Success Unlimited Academy is an AdvancED/SACS accredited school offering individualized education and was established in 2000. The school now operates two campuses. The lower campus (Grades K4-8) is located at 4500 Vaughn Road, at the corner of Fairlane Drive and Vaughn Road. The upper campus (Grades 9-12) location is 2328 Fairlane Drive. SUA is now accepting admissions applications for the 2015-2016 academic years. For more information, call (334) 213-0803, or email admin@suacademy.com.

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Success Unlimited Academy Spotlights Senior, Joe Lisenby

Joe Lisenby, a Success Unlimited Academy upcoming senior 2016, does not remain idle during his spare time. He continues to move forward pursuing avenues for Senior Success as he looks forward to graduation next year. Joe, SUA’s Student Government Association’s President, not only will receive his diploma from Success, but will also earn his associates degree in Office Management from Trenholm. He has handled dual enrollment, which is one of the many programs Success Unlimited offers, for the past year and will continue it again this school term. Joe is also the founder and president of H20, a student led devotional club which meets weekly before school. He is also active in the drama club and serves on SUA’s Media Team. Joe describes himself as leader, a motivator, and competitor. He plans to pursue a career in business administration at Troy University in the fall of 2016. “The small school environment, academic excellence, and leadership training at SUA has prepared me for the future,” stated Joe. “I am looking forward to a great and rewarding senior year at SUA.” Congratulations, Joe, on your achievements!

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I August 2015

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Hooper Cheerleaders Win Runner-Up at Cheer Camp

Hooper Academy varsity cheerleaders won state runner-up in the West Medium Division at AISA/UCA camp. The awards include: 1st place Home Pom, 1st place Sideline, 2nd place Extreme, 2nd place Cheer, 2nd place Gameday. Hooper senior Ashley Jones was awarded AISA All Star and UCA All American. From left are Coach Donna Maxwell, Abby Brasington, Haley Reynolds, Co-Captain Madeline Maxwell, CoCaptain Charity Bowden, Captain Ashley Jones, Lindsey Baker, Co-Captain Jessika Wallace, Co-Captain Laura Gravely and Haleigh Gill.

ECA Students Chosen for Nat’l Junior Honor Society

Evangel Christian Academy recently held its annual National Junior Honor Society induction ceremony. Several students gave speeches discussing the key principles of the organization. Afterward, several students recited the Honor Society’s pledge and became new members. New members are: Jacob Allison, Breyli Barkum, Micah Brown, Robert Bruce, Katie Cartee, Jordan Grice, Amber Maddox, Lorren Pharrams, Kayla Porter, Emily Stehl, Logan Temple, Jaya Armstrong, Darick Lewis and Joellen Whitfield. The new members were welcomed by current members Corryne Blanks, Ronald Holland, Mathew Johnson, Brandon Martin, Justin McGowin, Mia Navidad, ElleJae Reynolds, Briauna Thompson, Gracie Thompson, Hannah Tolbert, Mary Mac Loughridge, Julie Nguyen, James Paterson and Tryton Taylor.

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Macon East Cheerleaders Excel at UCA Cheer Camp The Macon East Academy varsity and JV cheerleading squads attended the AISA East UCA Cheerleading Camp at Huntingdon College the week of July 6-9. The girls kicked off the week with the Home Pom competition on Monday as a packed gym of parents and students watched. The senior cheerleaders also participated in AISA All-Star tryouts Monday, and all of the Macon East seniors (Carly Boutreis, Hannah Davis and Paxton Searle) were selected as AISA East All-Stars. These girls make up a squad of 24 seniors who will cheer at the AISA All-Star football and basketball games. Throughout the week, the girls learned a number of cheers and chants as well as a hip hop dance and the Xtreme routine. Squads also received instruction from the UCA staff on stunts, jumps and conditioning. Four Macon East cheerleaders participated in Tuesday night’s jump-off competition. Annslie Gourlay and Caitlin Martin represented the JV, while Rai Pritchett and Paxton Searle participated in the varsity division. Pritch-

ett was crowned the camp Jump-Off Champion among the varsity cheerleaders. Thirteen MEA cheerleaders competed in Wednesday’s All-American tryouts. A UCA All-American has the opportunity to participate in the Disney Thanksgiving Day Parade (JV) or the London New Year’s Day Parade (varsity). Gourlay, Martin, Emily Claire Lott and Taylor Anne Surles received medals as JV All-Americans, and Pritchett and Searle were selected as Varsity All-Americans. Searle and Surles were both Pin it Forward recipients. This pin is given to cheerleaders who demonstrate leadership and character to their cheer teams and other camp participants. During Thursday’s final evaluation, both squads performed the Xtreme routine incorporating stunts and tumbling, as well as a cheer, chant and sideline dance in the Game

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Day competition. The Varsity squad received first-place trophies for the Xtreme routine, the game day cheer, and overall game day. They were honored to be named Camp Champs in the small squad division. The JV squad received a first-place trophy for the Xtreme routine and second place for home pom. The cheerleaders received numerous blue superior ribbons and a spirit stick each night from the UCA staff. MEA cheer coaches are Kathy Loomis and Erica Hammonds.

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Trinity’s Wildcat “Paws” V and JV Dance Teams Shine at Camp! The Trinity Wildcat “Paws” Varsity and JV dance teams prepared for camp this summer with 6-9 AM dance practices each morning that included conditioning, technique, and choreography sessions to prepare for their Home Pom routines to perform at camp. They worked extremely hard and that hard work paid off! The teams attended camp at Auburn University with Universal Dance Association and spent many hours doing technique classes in jumps, turns, and leaps and learned routines in Jazz and HipHop throughout the week. There was team building and bonding among the girls and they are a stronger team for it! The Varsity team led by Coach Jenny Letner, Captain Jordyn Meeks and Cocaptain Virginia Reid won 2nd place in their Home Pom routine and received all superior ratings on their learned routines, while receiving the superior trophy. They also received full-out winners in their team routine and were recipients of a spirit stick. There were five All-American All-Star winners: Savannah Elrod, Emma Heaton, Jordyn Meeks, Anna Slawson, and Katie Windham. Junior Varsity led by their Coach Jordy Cheney, Captain Hannah McDaniel and Co-captain Lauren LeGrand, won 1st place in their Home Pom and received superior ratings on their learned material, while receiving a superior trophy. The team received the Super Spirit award and were also recipients of a spirit stick. There were two JV All-American All-Star winners: Hannah McDaniel and Anna Hixon. This was a very exciting week for the Trinity Varsity and JV Wildcat “Paws” Dance Teams! Trinity Varsity Dance team members are Captain and senior Jordyn Meeks, Co-captain and senior Virginia Reid, Seniors: Savannah Elrod, Anna Slawson, Gracie Champion, Emma Heaton, and Katie Windham, Juniors: Abby Johnston and Kacey Tinney, Sophomores: Charlie Ward, Madison Bowen, and Katherine Albrecht, and Freshman: Bailey Blake and Sarah Howe

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Success Unlimited Academy will host Mrs. Esther Scheuer, counselor, author, and consultant for a college prep seminar on September 29-30 at the high school campus. Mrs. Scheuer, a former guidance counselor, realized that students and parents need much guidance through the college admissions process. After assisting countless students and parents at her school, as well as getting her own daughters through the process, Mrs. Scheuer set out to assist others with the knowledge she gained. Participants of the seminar will not only benefit from listening to Mrs. Scheuerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s timely advice but will also receive a copy of her book, Parent and Student Guide to College Admission. There will be an allotted time also for questions at the parent seminar. The course will be offered for students grades 9-12. The cost of the workshop is $50 which includes a book, a 2 hour student workshop, and a 1 hour group parent consultation. SUA welcomes other students and parents from area schools to join the workshop on September 29 at 6:00 p.m. Cost of non SUA students will be $40 which includes the book. Please check out more information on the SUA website at www.suacademy. com. The website includes registration forms and more information. www.montgomeryparents.com

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It is hard to believe another school year is here! The faculty and staff of Autauga County Schools are ready for what we are sure will be our best school year yet. We look forward to kicking off a great year at our Teacher Institute on August 3rd. Our teachers will participate in professional development at the department, grade, school, and district levels starting August 4th. We hope our students are enjoying those last days of summer vacation because the first day of school for them will be Wednesday, August 12th. A great year often starts with a great first impression. For years our financial situation severely limited our ability to keep up our schools’ parking lots and front loops. This year we were able to deploy a crew to specifically address these needs. We had asphalt paving completed at one school and asphalt sealant applied at seven others. All schools

had their parking lots striped and cleaned, and all of the schools’ sidewalks were pressure washed. Nothing like a fresh start to a school year! Attractive and safe schools are important components of a child’s education and vital parts of Autauga County Schools’ plan for success. However, I also consider having a textbook paramount for maximizing academic achievement for our students. Over the past three years, we have been financially able to purchase textbooks, something we were not always able to do in the past. We are making great strides toward getting textbooks in our students’ hands. We now have a math and language arts textbook for every students’ personal use, and grades 7-12 will start the year with a new Social Studies textbook. Improved financial management has provided us the opportunity to have capital improvement projects and purchase textbooks. Also, this summer we received a two notch jump in our credit rating to AA-. I will share more on this topic in future articles to include an overview about our bond refinancing. We are in a very positive situation, and I look forward to sharing the details soon.

In closing, I want to announce the new principal assignments for the 2015-16 school year. Veteran educator Jerome Barrington has taken over the reigns of the top spot at Marbury Middle School. Rising star Julie Weston has moved to be the principal at Daniel Pratt Elementary School. Long time Dallas County principal Mike Blair has crossed the border to become the top “Bear” at Billingsley School. The new assistant principals are Tony Camara at Prattville Junior High, Lori Harris at Prattville Kindergarten, and Wyteria Ellis at Autaugaville. In Autauga County we are blessed to have amazing teachers, in my opinion, the best in the state of Alabama. When you have excellent teachers, you need great administrators to lead them. We have that in our new and existing administrators, and I am excited about working with them this year as we strive to provide the best education for the students of Autauga County. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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Prattville Students Attend National History Day

Prattville Holds Annual High School Band Contest

Prattville Junior High School had two students qualify to attend the national competition of National History Day in College Park, Maryland. Eighth-graders Marianna Fralick and Madeleine Kellett, at right, had previously won second place at the AUM competition. They received special recognition from the Polish Embassy for their excellent presentation of Madame Curie. After the competition, teacher Courtney Spencer was notified she was selected to participate in the National History Day Boot Camp in late July in LaGrange, Ga.

The Prattville High School Marching Band will hold its annual Heart of Dixie Band Competition October 10 at Stanley Jensen Stadium. If you are in a marching band, we would love to have you come and march in our competition. If you like watching marching bands from around the area, please come and enjoy the day with us. At the end of the day, the Pride of Prattville band will exhibit its show for the year. For more information or to sign up for the competition, please contact Band Director Chris King at (334) 365-8804.

PJHS Students Help Spruce Up School

A group of football and basketball players from Prattville Junior High School helped new Assistant Principal Tony Camara in his first official act of duty. He completely refurbished flower beds at PJHS to get ready for the new school year. Old shrubs were overgrown and shabby, so they were removed, along with rotting railroad ties. New curbing, shrubs and pine straw replaced them for a fresh new look.

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Daniel Pratt Student Wins National Beta Club Trophy

Nate Wells, a student at Daniel Pratt Elementary School, won first place in the Social Studies event at the National Beta Club Convention in Nashville, Tenn. June 28. He is the son of Steve and Collie Wells.

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Prattville Marching Band Sells Discount Cards

Prattville High School band members are selling annual discount cards for $10 each. More than 25 different vendors offer discounts to card holders, and after only a few uses of the card, it practically pays for itself. If you would like a discount card, get in touch with a band member or e-mail vicepresident1.pbbi@gmail.com.

PJHS Athletes Prepare for New School Year

The Prattville Junior High School athletes are working hard to prepare for an undefeated season. The football and volleyball teams have been practicing, the basketball team is working out, the majorettes are twirling, and coaches are gearing up for a new school year.

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As I write this, I am reminiscing about the excitement, anticipation, and, yes, dread, that I experienced as a child concerning the beginning of school. New shoes, school supplies, and the promise of reuniting with my friends filled those last days of summer freedom with eagerness. As a teacher, administrator, and as a parent, I am reminded of the importance of new beginnings and the hope that they can provide. In my new role as your superintendent, I can assure you that our administrators, teachers, and support staff have spent the entire summer researching, retraining, and recommitting themselves to providing each student with a new, and successful, beginning. This summer, our elementary school leadership team and our teachers conducted research to determine what could be added to our curricula that would provide the best intellectual stimulation for our students. We are pleased to announce that all kindergarten through fourth grade students will receive music instruction

during the 2015-2016 school year. Educational research indicates that language, literacy, communication, and higher order thinking skills of children are enhanced greatly by music education. We believe that adding this component will provide an opportunity for academic growth in our students. Many of our middle school students participated in the 21st Century program this summer. During this program, students visited cultural and historical sites and participated in enriching learning opportunities. These activities build confidence in students and they focus upon academic and social growth. For five weeks, students from Millbrook Middle School participated in Zero Robotics, a robotics program designed and structured by NASA which uses the resources of the International Space Station. Our students had an opportunity to integrate math, science, and technology in order to build critical problem solving skills. Some of our high school students took credit advancement courses this summer in order to get ahead in their journey to graduation. Many began football practices, athletic conditioning, cheerleader practices, and band practices in anticipation for fall Friday nights. Dedication, and the promise of winning competitions provide multiple opportunities for summer sacrifices.

Students were not alone in their pursuit of excellence this summer. Many of our teachers, administrators, and support staff members attended multiple professional development sessions in order to provide an engaging learning environment for our students. Several of our teachers and support staff received training in how to care for our service dogs. We are so excited about the added dimension of intervention and support that these new “partners” will offer to our schools! As we begin this new school year, please allow me to invite you to embrace this new adventure with your student! Check out your child’s school website in order to attend his or her open house before school begins. Communicate OFTEN with your child and his/ her teacher. Check your child’s grades on line frequently and celebrate the successes while encouraging the opportunities to grow that you find in those grades. This is a new beginning and we can’t wait to grow and to learn with you and your student this year! Andre` L. Harrison has served as a teacher, acting principal, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services and Human Resources, Assistant Superintendent of Education, and the Deputy Superintendent of Education/Chief of Staff. He is married to Monica, and they have a daughter, Aundrea, who attends the UAB. They reside in Millbrook, Alabama.

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Holtville Senior Named Distinguished Young Woman

Reagan Law, a Holtville High School senior, was named the 2016 Distinguished Young Woman of Elmore County at Elmore County High School June 20. Distinguished Young Women is a national scholarship program that promotes and rewards scholarship, leadership and talent in young women. In addition to being overall winner, Law was awarded several scholarships which included Scholastic Award, Interview Award, Fitness Award, and Self-Expression Award. All of her scholarships totaled $2,650 and she moves on to the state level to represent Elmore County. From left are first runner-up Leighton Hamilton, Reagan Law, and second runnerup Olivia Smith.

Wetumpka Girls Compete in Pageant

Rising Wetumpka Middle School eighth-grader Kaylee Erneston, left, competed as a state pre-teen finalist in the National American Miss Alabama pageant held June 11-13 at the Sheraton Hotel in Birmingham. She was the first-place overall winner in the Top Model Photo Shoot Competition, where she received a $250 cash prize, trophy and her entry fee paid to compete in this competition in the national competition. She was also the first-place overall winner in the Talent Competition, where she also received a $250 cash prize, trophy and her entry fee paid to compete in the national competition. Other awards include second runnerup in the actress competition (trophy and invitation to compete in the national competition; and second runner-up in the photogenic competition (trophy and invitation to compete in the national competition). She will compete for the National AllAmerican Miss Queen Title as well as other optional National Titles, like Miss Talent and Miss Top Model, etc. The competition will be held in Anaheim, Calif. November 22-28. Erneston will get to spend a day at Disneyland, enjoy a Hollywood Tour, and

dine at a Thanksgiving banquet courtesy of National American Miss. Ernestonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister, Trinity Howard, a rising Wetumpka High School freshman, competed in the junior teen division of the National American Miss Alabama pageant, where she was a state finalist. Her awards include a Spirit Award (awarded to those who competed in five or more optional competitions). Howard also placed first runnerup in the Spokemodel Competition (trophy and invitation to compete in the national competition). 43

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Elmore County Schools

Wetumpka Teen Attends Leadership Program in D.C. Dalton White, a rising Wetumpka High School sophomore, had the opportunity to participate in the People to People leadership ambassador program in Washington, D.C. June 23-29. Participants stayed on the Mount Vernon campus of George Washington University and met people from all over the country. Students were taught how to be better citizens and more respectful people in their everyday lives. The first day began with the ambassadors breaking the ice with each other and eating dinner together on the GWU campus. The second day kicked off with a service project at the United Way worldwide headquarters. Day Three helped the students hone their

interpersonal skills by attending the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens workshop. They also toured the GWU Foggy Bottom campus guided by an attending student. The day ended with a group discussion with a panel of GWU students to help prepare the ambassadors for their own college application process. Sightseeing on Day Four included tours of the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the MLK Jr. Memorial, and the Capitol Building. After lunch, tours continued with the WWII Memorial, the Vietnam Memorial, the Korean Memorial, the Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the White House. On Day Five, ambassadors explored the Newseum to better understand how leaders use the First Amendment.

On their last full day together, the students presented their service projects and toured the Smithsonian Natural History Museum. Afterward, they went on a dinner and dance cruise.

Elmore Schools Provide Summer Camps

The Elmore County Public School System was able to provide summer camps at Coosada Elementary, Airport Road Intermediate and Wetumpka Elementary for the first time this summer! The camps were designed to strengthen student learning in the areas of reading and math while providing a fun summer experience for the children.

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WMS Band Students Attend Band Camp

On July 20, the new seventh- and eighth-grade Wetumpka Middle School Beginning Band students took their first steps toward becoming musicians. For the entire week they learned how to make their first sounds, how to assemble their instruments, and how to begin to read and play music. A great music teaching staff comprised of current and former Wetumpka High School band members helped WMS band instructor Diana Frazier.

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Holtville Cheerleaders Attend Auburn Camp

The Holtville High School varsity, shown above, and junior varsity, shown below, cheerleading squads attended UCA Cheer Camp at Auburn University June 21-24. The cheerleaders participated in many activities including learning new cheers, stunts and building on their cheering skills. Both squads are under the leadership of Sonya Wilson and Rett Hawk.

ECHO Holds Annual Open House August 14

Elmore County Homeschool Organization (ECHO) will hold Open House Friday, August 14, from 10 a.m.-noon. This is a free event. Families from any county are welcome. There will be refreshments, kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; activity tables, vendor tables, used curriculum for sale, and information about upcoming activities. E-mail elmore. co.homeschool.org@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/elmore.county. homeschool.organization.

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The New Peer Pressure Has your child been nominated? Not for class president or team captain. The new way to nominate is to post something outrageous online and then “tag” friends who are expected to top the performance. Some of these so-called “nek nominations” are silly, harmless fun, but many involve alcohol, drugs or sex. And kids who don’t want to participate may find that they are teased or even bullied. Peer pressure is nothing new, of course, but new research indicates that social media can exacerbate the problem, making young people more likely to engage in risky behaviors in the hope of winning attention and approval from other teens. One study, by researchers in Belgium, confirmed that peer pressure often plays a role in sexting. Even kids who know it isn’t a good idea to exchange explicit photos may get involved because the short-term boost in popularity seems more important to adolescents than the long term damage to reputation and selfesteem. Decisions about drugs and alcohol are also heavily influenced by what happens in online friendship networks according to research done recently at the University of Southern California. Even parents who have Facebook accounts aren’t likely to see much of what goes on in social media, partly because teens are migrating to other sites such as Vine, Snapchat, Instagram and What’s App. Rather than trying to monitor everything a child does on and offline, parents need to be proactive, equipping teens with information and skills that will help them set appropriate boundaries and live up to their own ideals regardless of what their friends do. Here are some suggestions: Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Assume your child is under pressure. In its annual survey of substance use, the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University reported that 45% of teens have seen social media pictures showing other teens getting drunk, passed out or using drugs. Teens don’t necessarily talk about these photos because they don’t want to get friends in trouble, but the images have an influence. The same report found that 47% of teens who had seen such photos were convinced the participants were having a terrific time. Talk often about values. Be sure your child has a clear sense of your expectations. Just as important, talk about the reasons behind the rules you make. “Because I said so” may be adequate for younger children, but your teenager deserves a deeper explanation of what kind of life you hope he or she will lead and why you think drinking, drug use and casual sex might interfere with his or her prospects. Clarify consequences. Researchers now know that the part of the brain that is able to anticipate long-term consequences doesn’t develop until late in adolescence. Social media reinforces short-term thinking with photos that show the fun of partying without the aftermath which can be unpleasant and even tragic. Parents have to compensate by making the dark side of teen sex and substance abuse equally vivid. Be sure your child understands that there can be lifelong consequences from driving drunk, being arrested while under the influence, distributing pornography and having unprotected or underage sex. Rehearse refusal. Teens are often convinced that, if they don’t do what a friend wants, they’ll lose the friendship. They will be better prepared to resist pressure if they have thought ahead about things they might say or post when they want to turn down a request. Humor helps. So does changing the subject 46

or suggesting an alternative activity. Remind your child that true friends don’t push each other into situations that are uncomfortable much less dangerous. Be willing to argue. Even when you start with the best of intentions, conversations with teenagers are likely to become confrontational. That’s OK. Researchers at the University of Virginia found that kids who had the confidence to stand up to their parents and argue their point of view were also more likely to resist peer pressure. Even when it seems that your child isn’t listening, keep calm and stay focused on the issue of the moment rather than getting distracted by attitude. Use the tools to take control. Facebooks’s untag feature is a highly effective way to eliminate posts from people who are pressuring a teen to do something stupid or dangerous. (Go to the activity log by clicking the downward arrow at the top of any FB page. Click Photos and select the problem photo. Select “Remove Tags”. ) Even better, encourage your child to activate the ability to “Review posts friends tag you in before they appear on your timeline.” (Click on the gear icon in the upper-right corner and then choose “Settings.” Select Timeline and Tagging and choose “Review posts.”) Harness peer pressure for good. After analyzing over a billion status updates on Facebook, a research team from the University of California, San Diego, found that positive posts inspired positive responses. Encourage your kids to engage in good deeds and random acts of kindness. Then they can nominate friends to top those accomplishments. The power of social media often seems overwhelming, but parents have power too. Talking frankly about the kinds of online pressures kids may encounter gives them the opportunity to think ahead so that, when the time comes, they are better equipped to make decisions in the moment that they won’t regret in the future. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2015, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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What is Bullying? “Don’t be such a bully!” Who hasn’t wanted to shout that at someone at some point in their lives? Many of us may think of playground bullying almost as a rite of passage, an unpleasant but harmless part of growing up. But according to Melanie Beasley of the Family Sunshine Center, it’s a much more serious matter. Bullying can leave lasting scars, leading to anxiety, depression and panic attacks. In the most extreme cases, it can contribute to suicide. In addition, Beasley adds, “Childhood bullies may become adult bullies and bully their family members.” The Family Sunshine Center defines bullying as “when someone repeatedly and purposefully says or does mean or hurtful things to another person who is weaker, more vulnerable and has a hard time defending him or herself. It is one person gaining and maintaining power and control over another.” The traditional playground bully shoves another kid into the dirt or steals his money. This is physical bullying, but bullying can be verbal, such as when one child taunts another by name-calling, malicious teasing, put-downs or starts rumors about him/her. Bullying can also be more subtle, like when someone is deliberately and repeatedly left out of a group. Emotional abuse of this sort can be more damaging than physical bullying and it is more common among girls than boys, who tend to be more physically aggressive.

What differentiates bullying from other forms of aggression is that bullying is both intentional and ongoing. Having one’s feelings hurt by something a classmate says may be unpleasant, but it rises to the level of bulling only if it’s deliberate and happens over and over again. Bullies know what they’re doing. Bullies are more powerful than their victims in some way. They might be older, bigger, richer, perceived as more popular or have a sharper tongue. They bully because they enjoy the power to control and humiliate others. Beasley adds that the internet has changed the dynamics of bullying. “We used to think of bullying as something that happened at school and ended at the end of the day,” she says. “But now with cyberbullying, children can be victimized into the evening and on weekends.” Facebook, cell phones, blog posts, instant messaging and chat can all be used by the cyberbully, who may post rumors about another student, send around an embarrassing picture, or impersonate someone online

to make him or her look stupid. While studies show that most bullying still involves face-to-face confrontation, anecdotal evidence suggests that the incidence of cyberbullying may be growing. In fact, according to Beasley, “It is probably much more common than anybody knows.” Studies show that between a 25% to 33% of students say they have experienced bullying at school, particularly middle school where 15% of students could be considered bullies, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Raising awareness of all types of bullying can make schools safer places for everyone. The River Region ROCK Task Force (Respect Others, Create Kindness) is a group of over 65 members whose mission is to prevent bullying through awareness and education. For more information on meetings, events and a toolkit for practical prevention, please visit www.rocktaskforce.com. Article contributed by Miriam C. Davis.

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Style Designed by Kids

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

It’s cool to watch a child develop their own sense of style. The littlest kids can bounce back and forth between superhero capes in the grocery store to the latest fashions at school without batting an eye. But as they grow, they begin to develop some unique sensibilities when it comes to their ‘look’ and accessories. Whether they master all the latest fashion trends or march to their own drummer in the dress-yourself department, the following items let kids put their own distinctive stamp on their personal style!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Hair Chalk Salon

New Cool Sewing Studio

Easy and no mess are some of the first words to describe how the Hair Chalk Salon makes temporary hair coloring a snap. With five washable chalk pens, plus 24 metallic beads and elastics, kids can experiment with all kinds of colors using their hair as the canvas. Ideal for hair of any color, boys and girls can make a temporary hair statement adding a range of color to their locks (colors which wash out easily with shampoo). Perfect for spa play at a sleepover or for adding some heady excitement before a festival or party, the Hair Chalk Salon is a fun, easy and colorful way kids can add flair to their hair!

Without thread, without a needle, the New Cool Sewing studio offers a whole new way for kids to craft purses, pouches, soft figures and more with fabric. Complete with patterns and projects pre-cut from felt, the machine uses enclosed prongs that clamp together, fusing the felt as it’s fed across the base. When kids get the hang of guiding the felt through the machine as it “sews” the pieces together, they will quickly develop the confidence and skill to take on bigger felt projects and maybe even design some of their own. A great intro to the world of machine sewing, kids will soon be ready to show off their stitching style with the projects they create.

(Sew Cool)

(Alex Toys)

Duct Tape Wallet Kit

Pop-Arty Beads

It’s common knowledge that duct tape can fix everything. It can also make almost anything – including uber-cool wallets. The Duct Tape Wallet Kit from Alex comes with everything a kid needs to design and craft a wallet that suits their own distinct style. With five rolls of duct tape (three yards each), plus non-stick paper, stencils, pre-cut fabrics and easy instructions, the stage is set for kids to quickly learn wallet design and construction. Duct Tape Wallet is a satisfying way for kids to pour their style into something that’s useful, unusual AND uniquely theirs!

Just like style is ever-evolving, Pop-Arty Beads are just as versatile! Kids can choose from a compelling variety of shapes, texture and colors among the 500 beads that simply pop together in endless combinations. Bracelets, rings, sashes and tiaras – there’s no limit to the ways kids can assemble their beads into ready-to-wear masterpieces. The set is complete with a bead storage jar that travels and an instruction book with some great ideas to start off projects. For young jewelry designers, the party is just getting started with Pop-Arty style!

(B. Toys)

(Alex Toys)

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

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

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Plan ahead for hectic mornings by 4) Be prepared. School bells will soon gathering healthy, simple-to-prepare Peruse school supply lists carefully and ring once again. Whether breakfast ideas packed with nutrients read the handouts the school issues to and protein. Wall calendars with activities ensure that your youngster has everything that comes as music to color-coded for each family member and she needs on the first day of school. daily checklists for each child can help “Kids feel embarrassed on the first your ears or a bittersweet establish expectations and keep your fam- day when they aren’t prepared,” Jasperily organized. son says. reminder that the free2) Build anticipation. 5) Reduce uncertainty. spirited summer days are Got a youngster who’s bummed to head Often kids feel nervous about unknowns to school? Stay upbeat. Remind him like transitioning to a teacher they don’t over, check out these tips back of the subjects that spark his curiosity know, a new school or a different set of from the pros to help you that he’ll learn about in the coming year, classroom rules. Take advantage of any whether that’s cursive writing, multiplicaback-to-school or orientation events that tion or a special grade-level project. and your child enjoy a your school offers to help your apprehen“Talk to your children about friends sive scholar familiarize herself with the they haven’t seen all summer and about smart, happy start classroom, meet classmates and connect new kids joining their class,” says first with the teacher before school starts. to school. grade teacher Megan Jasperson. “This

1) Push the re-set button.

A week or two before school starts, ease back to regular bedtime and morning routines. Nudge kids back into the habit of daily reading if they’ve slacked off and play math games to review. “Think about re-setting structure at home and what changes need to happen so it’s not a total shock to everyone’s system,” says Christine Vohs, a second grade teacher. “Anything that you can create that allows for structure and your child’s ownership for success is going to send them to me in a better frame of mind to learn for the day.”

is sure to get them excited for the school year to begin.”

3) Show support.

“Avoid teasing your child by saying things like ‘you got the meanest teacher in school!’ or acting as if you’re overjoyed to be sending your child back to school because this can make him wonder why you’re so eager to be away from him,” says Becky DeNoon, a third grade teacher. Instead offer encouragement and support. Remind him that it’s normal to feel disappointed about summer break coming to a close, but that you’re excited to see how much he’ll learn and grow during the coming months.

Knowing what to expect and where to go on the first day will ease some of a child’s anxieties.

6) Seek out friendly faces.

If you’ve recently moved to the community or switched schools, look for other families with children your child’s age to arrange a playdate or to meet for frozen yogurt. Some schools also feature parent Facebook pages. Hop on and ask if anyone would like to get together at the park before school begins. Many parents love to help welcome new families. And these efforts will lessen first day jitters when your youngster knows she’ll recognize a few familiar faces when she gets there.

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Have an adolescent heading into middle school? Encourage him to join after-school clubs and activities. His involvement will help him form connections with peers who share his interests, says Traci Keeler, a sixth grade math teacher and eight grade volleyball and track coach.

Create a homework spot.

Designate an area in your home that’s conducive to focus and concentration and where you can easily jump in to provide assistance when necessary. While purchasing school supplies, also stock a homework caddy or station with scratch paper, pens, pencils, erasers, markers, highlighters and anything else that Junior will need to complete his homework.

Build partnerships.

Maintaining open communication and partnering with your student’s teacher is key to a successful school year. “You know your child best and your insights into your child are helpful to us,” Vohs says. Introduce yourself to the teacher and tell her the best ways she can contact you. In turn, remember that teachers care about their students’ best interests. Vohs speaks for many of her colleagues when she says: “I hope parents will trust me to make the best possible decisions for their child while he or she is with me.”

Get involved.

Help your children start seeing school as an extension of their home life by volunteering periodically. Most kids get a kick out of seeing their parents during the school day, whether they volunteer in the cafeteria, library or the classroom. Unable to volunteer at school? Ask the teacher what you can do to help from home. mp

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines always loved the back-to-school season as a child and still does. Her two boys don’t share her enthusiasm. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital Word.

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Pink-n-Pearls Girls Read To Belmont Residents

The words of Dr. Seuss filled the air of Belmont Assisted Living Home as Pinkn-Pearls for Girls read to the residents in celebration of Dr. Seussâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday. More than 20 residents and staff enjoyed the read-a-thon. For more information about the group, please call Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091.

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Mann Dancers Compete in Panama City Beach

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Dancers from Mann Dance Company were invited to Fusion Nationals in Panama City Beach, Fla. and brought home many national titles. Visit www. manndancestudio.net/ for more award-winning photos. MDS is now registering for fall classes! Shown here, front row from left, are: Grayson Gazell, Addison Agee, Anna Livingston, Bailee Lightsey, Teagan Walker, Julia Kaye Jones, Rhylee Parker, Madyson Roy, Leah Sowell, Chloe Harris, Jaycee Parker and Temperance Nordiquest; second row, Lily McKinnon, Anyia Lynch, Abbie Goodson, Ella Kate Churchwell, Farah Zakaria, Madison Cooper, Madison Hayter, Marissa Smith, Bayleigh Cherry, Carlee Womble, Maddie Tucker and Jorja Wilson; and back row, Carolina Anderson and Stephanie Jones (instructors), Cassidy Cooper, Jayla Baker, MaKayla Logan, Riley Anne Clark, Grayson Harris, Carmella Clarke, Dixie McGalliard, Mackenzie Cherry, Molli Logan, Nancy Whetstone, Christian Curry, Olivia Reeves and Carol Meeks (instructor).

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Making Full Use Out of Your Work Wear So many of my clients and friends ask me how they can make full use of every single item in their wardrobes, especially my working moms. They tend to purchase different sets of clothing, one for work and the other for casual wear. That can get expensive and can take up much unnecessary room in your closet. I recently took a work trip to New York City and as I was walking around, jumping from one taxi to another or one subway train to another, I noticed so many women who were dressed professionally, yet comfortably stylish. I know the lifestyle is different in NYC; people typically work late hours and are rushing to events after work, so there is no time to go home and change. They have to make full use of their wardrobe. These ladies are combining their most comfortable and cute walking shoes with their versatile business attire. Notice I said versatile. They are creating outfits you can wear to work, a nice dinner, brunch with friends or just for comfort walking around in the big city. What a fantastic way to be versatile and frugal with your style. Here are a few ideas for making full use of your work wear...the big city way. Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Blazers A lot of blazers come with suits, but don’t tuck those blazers away on the weekend. Blazers add structure and style to any casual Jean. Pair with your favorite t-shirt for a more casual look, then add heels or boots of your choice and, of course, accessorize with your favorite handbag and jewelry. You now have a fun, casual outfit for the weekend or a night out with the girls or family.

Bottoms I know it sounds like working an office bottom into a casual setting isn’t possible, but don’t shy away from switching those office skirts and suit pants to more casual attire. You can do this by simply pairing them with a blouse or even a t-shirt of your choice. Add a casual flat or your favorite heel, depending on what you might be doing on the weekend or weeknight.

Shift Dress A simple shift dress is perfect for an easy work to weekend transition. Pair with your heels, blazer, and cardigan at work. For the weekend or weeknight, add your favorite accessories...a chunky necklace, sparkly, printed clutch or a skinny belt. You might even make it a little more casual with a light denim or leather jacket of your choice. 54

Altered Make sure all of your articles of clothing are altered to fit your body. You need to be able to wear a heel with the length of your pants and skirt and still be able to pull off your favorite flat or sandal.

Accessories Clearly, accessories can change an outfit. My closet is probably packed with more accessories than clothes. Clutches, oversized bags, jewelry and scarves can really change up your style. Whether it’s casual or work wear. And a plus to those oversized trendy handbags is that you can pack a few changeable items in them for after work events. Or you can even pack a pair of your favorite flats in case your feet are screaming for relief during the day. I love a big handbag and accessories! Even though we are not hustling and bustling around a big city like NYC, we are all in the same fashion boat when it comes to making full use out of our wardrobes. Whether you are a big city or small town working gal it’s all about comfort and versatility. Enjoy these simple tips of styling that will get you through the workweek and weekend.

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

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As parents, we want our kids to make good friends, friends who they have fun with and can confide in. Of course, not all kids are social butterflies, so how do you encourage friendships at every stage of the game from toddler to teen? Read on to learn!

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Toddlers and Preschoolers

I envy the easy way in which the tiny crowd makes friends. They can plop down next to any random kid at a park, daycare or preschool, start chatting and … BAM! … they are instant pals. Taking your child places and providing chances for him to be around other kids is what it takes for him to make new friends during this special time. Playdates, for instance, are a great way for toddlers and preschoolers to try out their social skills. Alyssa Ast, mom of four, says, “Finding parents that have children close in age to yours is a good place to start. Take your children to the park and search these parents out. Strike up a conversation to see if your families share similarities. If so, set up a playdate in a public area until you become comfortable enough with one another to meet at each other’s house.” Never underestimate the power of play! “By taking turns and sharing through activity and play, [children] are beginning to build friendships. It is important to help a child learn this through built-in fun and play-oriented activities that promote taking turns, sharing and caring about their new friends. Having children learn these at a young age helps them build a foundation for successful relationships as they mature into adults,” says Anna Marie Evans, a licensed teacher of Dr. Steven Stosny’s parenting class Compassionate Parenting (www.CompassionPower. com). It may seem a little early to be thinking ahead to friendships during the teen years, but don’t forget that your child is watching you and

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how you interact with them and with others (friends, family, your spouse or partner) right now. “Whatever the parents give at earlier ages will come home to roost with teenagers. Be there for them as they’re 3 and 8 and 10, and they’ll be halfway normal at 16.” says Victoria Solsberry, LCSW of Arlington, a psychiatric social worker and author of Adoption for Singles.

Elementary Age Kids

If your child attends school, making friends should be easy with so many kids to choose from. Other ways for your child to make friends at this age include: groups like Cub Scouts or Girl Scouts; sports (organized through the school or through a parks and recreation department) or clubs where your child can meet kids who share similar interests. If you homeschool, chances are there are many groups in your city where you can attend events and where your child can make friends. When your child reaches elementary school age, you’ll want to make sure you are still modeling what makes a friend because she’ll learn a lot from you based on how she sees you interact with your spouse, family, co-workers and friends and how you work out disagreements. It’s also important to talk about what makes a friend (e.g., a friend is someone who doesn’t tease you or try to hurt you; someone who doesn’t talk badly about you behind your back or online; someone who comes to your birthday parties, listens to you, shares their things, offers to have you over to their house or do things with them, etc.). As with the toddler and preschooler period, parents are the ones who model friendships. Ask “what if” questions like, “What if a third kid wants to play with you and your friend?” because you want your child to think about how to treat existing and new friends. Talk to your child about sharing, teasing and playing fair; play board games with them; teach them not to get physical or retaliate. Your kids are looking to you to help them with building friendships. According to Dr. Rosemary Burton, Vice President of Education for Minnieland Private Day School, “The kids who are socially popular are the ones who are able to look at feelings and perspectives from other points of view and are not always worried just about what they are thinking and feeling. To sustain friendships parents should be working on emotional competence and concentrating not just on the feelings of themselves, but also of other people.” While getting to know your child’s school friends by having them over often is important, it’s also helpful for kids to have friends in their own neighborhood that they

can visit easily and spend large amounts of time with. Rachel Elvin, mom of 3, says, “It’s great that my kids have friends who live in our neighborhood. After getting to know the parents, we now just let our sons walk across the street or ride their bike a block up to hang out at their friend’s house.”

Tweens and Teens

Drama rules during the tween and teen years, and you have the added challenge of helping your child learn how to deal with strong peer pressure along the lines of music, drugs, sex, drinking, how to dress, how to act and more. This season of parenting can make chasing after a marker-wielding toddler seem like a piece of cake. Victoria Solsberry, LCSW, says, “Teenagers who have received the love and support that they need at earlier ages will stay connected to their parents and at least consider their opinions.” Make sure you pay attention to who your child is hanging out with. Get to know his friends by inviting them over and being the Mom Taxi. And talk to your child about things like making good choices, how to get out of sticky situations, what a “good” friend looks like and how you expect to know where they are at all times. Teach your child some ways for her to make friends include: listening to others, smiling at people, keeping the gossip and cattiness to a minimum, talking to people first, being themselves, trying to have a good time, inviting someone new to sit with them at lunch. Other ideas include: trying out for a school play, participating in a sport, joining a club at school, attending church youth group activities, going to summer camp and so on. What if your child is hanging out with some kids you don’t approve of? Tweens and teens are like ships that need a lot of steering in the murky of waters of hormones and peer pressure. Ellen Jones, mom of 5 (including twin 14-year-old boys) says, “When my kids want to hang out with kids that have questionable behavior, we encourage the friends to play at our house so we can monitor what goes on. Then we treat them like we treat our kids and correct their behavior. If they don’t like it, they leave.” The friendship groundwork you lay when your child is just a toddler impacts how she’ll handle friendships when she’s a teenager and beyond. Teach her how to get along with other kids her age (and of other ages) so she can hold onto friends and make new ones throughout her life. mp

Kerrie McLoughlin, the seasoned mom of 5, blogs at TheKerrieShow.com.

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A Page in a Book

Picking the Perfect Pet Once a child has their heart set on a pet, their desires can become immovable objects when it comes to what they want in their new friend. Kids take the long view (way past any puppy training, kitten teeth, or swampy fish tanks) straight to the ideal bond they will enjoy with their imagined pet. But animals, just like people, aren’t made to order. Opening our hearts to a new pet begins a journey of discovery as we and our new family member get to know each other. The following titles explore the transition from imagining the perfect pet to loving the real perfection in a child’s adopted companion.

The Octopuppy

by Martin McKenna (Scholastic) Edgar wanted a dog. But when his birthday arrived, eight tentacles attached to Jarvis (an octopus) sprang out of the box. Disappointed but undeterred Edgar began a rigorous course of training for Jarvis to teach him all the things that dogs can do. Unfortunately, Jarvis obeys every command to the extreme with a cephalopod’s flair for the dramatic. But when he gets one trick right, Edgar takes a big chance and enters Jarvis in a dog show. The disaster that follows leaves them both discouraged. Edgar’s following epiphany that an octopus isn’t supposed to be a dog almost comes too late. A heartbroken Jarvis has headed for the open sea and it’s up to Edgar to find his friend and bring him home. Delightfully illustrated “The Octopuppy” is guaranteed to open every heart that ever took the journey from unrealized expectation to the wonderful reality of true companionship shared between a beloved pet and his caregiver.

Motor Dog

by Kurt Cyrus and David Gordon (Disney / Hyperion) When he spies the perfect pet online, it’s a easy as the click of a button for Flip to order his own Motor Dog. Delivered right to the door, Motor Dog comes with its own remote control so Flip knows his new pet will do exactly what he wants. But their first stroll together reveals a glitch in the software when Motor Dog spies a cat and overrides his programming. The ensuing chase has one motor-enhanced pup dragging Flip along in his hot pursuit. Pushing buttons and entering commands aren’t helping get the situation under control. But when the leash breaks and Motor Dog is free to choose his path, the real connection between boy and dog begins. With a gentle nod to the two-way street that good relationships are built upon, “Motor Dog” is a high-octane new pet adventure!

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The Princess and the Pony

by Kate Beaton (Scholastic) Princess Pinecone is ready to stake her claim in the kingdom of warriors. All she needs is a strong and valiant steed to carry her into battle. But her advance specifications are for naught when her parents present her with a pony that is decidedly not fierce. Her birthday pony is too small, too round, and its eyes don’t always look in the same direction. Without the strength, size or agility of a real fighting horse, their cause may be lost as their tiny duo enters the warriors’ melee. But Princess Pinecone’s little pony reveals an adorable power that may just help them become the perfect team to carry the day. From the comic genius behind the “Hark! A Vagrant”, Kate Beaton’s laugh-out-loud treatment of fantasy warfare will have adult readers chuckling alongside little listeners. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Doodle, dabble, draw. Art education contributes to problem-solving and critical thinking skills, not to mention creativity. Independently-run studios and museums offer classes for kids of all ages like painting, drawing and sculpture.

DIY: Put together an “imagination bucket” with art supplies, including recyclables, construction paper and other doodads. Encourage your children to present their individual masterpieces to the family at dinner. Move it. Team sports nurture social, communication and leadership skills. And experiencing loss builds resilience as kids learn to persevere through disappointment. Individualized sports like swimming, martial arts, or tennis are also beneficial, helping kids develop focus and self-discipline.

After-school activities are an essential and fun way to round out your child’s overall educational experience. Integrate both structured and DIY activities that complement your child’s disposition, age and interests.

DIY: Burn off energy by shooting hoops in the driveway, running through a homemade obstacle course, or groovin’ to funky music before homework time.

“Students in these activities learn important social skills, are given the opportunity to meet a wider variety of peers, and gain more confidence and self-esteem,” says Matt Johnson, a director of student services and athletics. Furthermore, involved kids are more motivated to do well academically. Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Checkmate! A popular and ancient game of strategy, chess fosters patience and impulse control as players learn to plan and visualize their moves on the board. “Chess can help increase a student’s focus and concentration along with helping students with personal skills, such as problem solving and critical thinking,” says Rick Hetzel, a high school chess club moderator. 60

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DIY: Start a club at your child’s school or challenge your kids to a family board game or cards. Strike the right note. Kids who learn to play an instrument learn to read music and gain a sense of timing, beat and rhythm. Multiple research studies find a relationship between music education and its influence on mathematics skills, including the ability to recognize patterns, sequencing, spatial reasoning and tempo. And according to the National Association for Music Education, youngsters who are involved in music are more likely to be engaged in school, develop a higher self-esteem and are better able to cope with anxiety.

DIY: Make your own music. Fill drinking glasses with different levels of water. Tap each jar lightly with a spoon and listen for the varying pitches and vibrations each emits. Kids also like making their own instruments from drums out of oatmeal containers to rain sticks from covered paper towel tubes. Encore! The performing arts offer a positive outlet for expressive children and can enhance reading comprehension and verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Also consider debate, photography and journalism clubs.

DIY: Help your child set up a blog to share his writing and photos with a select audience. Check out www.kidzworld.com which offers kids a safe and fully moderated place to blog. (Geared for 9 to 14-yearolds.) Younger kids can hone their storytelling chops by writing a story, dressing in costumes and acting it out. Get cooking. Learning to prepare healthy meals is a life skill. Plus when following recipes, kids practice reading and math skills like measurements and fractions. Many local grocery stores and culinary centers offer kids’ cooking classes.

DIY: Include your kids in the process of

meal preparation. Even on busy weeknights they can help make a salad or set the table. Also, check out cookbooks geared for kids like Chop Chop: The Kids Guide to Cooking, Better Homes & Gardens New Junior Cookbook and Wookie Cookies: A Star Wars Cookbook.

Be of service. “There are many volunteer opportunities that students can pursue in the community where they can give of their time and learn new skills,” says Cindy Neely, a high school counselor. Scouting, Boys & Girls Club, the YMCA, and youth groups are examples of service organizations that offer real-life experiences outside of the classroom, fostering confidence, leadership and communication skills. Through engagement in their communities, kids are less likely to feel isolated. They gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the world around them. 61

DIY: Volunteer together at a local shelter, help a neighbor with yard work or gather canned goods for a food pantry. Seek balance. While variety is the spice of life, don’t overwhelm your kids with activities which can cause stress and affect grades. “It is all about identifying the delicate balance that helps foster their development of skills in activities that they may be involved in for a lifetime,” Johnson says. mp Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two active boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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Art and Music Kindermusik of Montgomery (ad on page 75)

A unique experience for child and parent. Each Kindermusik class is a world of discovery and adventure. In every class, you’ll witness your child’s developmental evolution in language skills, literacy, listening, problem solving, social skills, self-esteem, and musicality. And it happens within a nurturing environment- full of energy, imagination, music, dancing, and playful delight. 18 to 3 years old. Singing, movement, instruments, and social interaction. Classes begins in September. Now enrolling for fall semester. Call today for registration. Contact Sara Hall at (334) 271.3264.

Melodic Vibes (ad on page 65)

8449 Crossland Loop, Suite 103 and 105 Kim Vaughn, (334) 220.0468 MELODICViBES, LLC is designed to provide opportunities for students to learn, create, and demonstrate their talents. We encourage an atmosphere that inspires creativity, promotes focus, and fuels dreams. We strengthen development and growth of the whole person, while gaining a genuine appreciation of the arts. Our after school program provides a unique experience, cultivating your child in multiple components of the arts. Please visit our website at www.melodic-vibes. com or visit us on Facebook at MelodicVibes, LLC.

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (ad on page 74)

Studio Programs: (334) 240.4365, 1 Museum Drive, Drawing and painting for preschoolers, children and adults. Afternoons and on weekends. Call for class, times, and cost information. Scholarships are available. Visit our website at www.mmfa.org and click on education tab for more fall classes. Preschool (ages 2 - 5, with an adult partner) Tales for Tots (ages 2 & older) Began art enrichment early in this FREE class for young children and their parents, combining storytelling, books, and simple art activities with art in the Museum’s galleries. Instructors: Museum Education staff Time: 10:30 to 11 a.m. and 11 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays: August 12, September 16 Young Artist (ages 3 - 5) Twice monthly, this popular class offers an opportunity for parents and their preschool children to create art together and learn about basic techniques using a variety of media such as water colors, tempera and acrylic paint, oil pastels, collage, and clay sculpture. Instructor: Museum Education Staff; Time: 1:30 to 2:15 PM; Thursdays: July 30; August 13, 27; September 10, 24. Cost: $8 members/$12 non-members for each classes. Children and Youth (ages 6 to 14) After School Art I (ages 6 to 9) Every Wednesday afternoon, students explore different elements of art and principles of design, and drawing, painting, ceramics and sculpture techniques, based on art in the museum in this fun-filled series. All supplies are provided. Class size is limited to 12 students. Instructors: Donna Pickens and Museum Education Montgomery Parents I August 2015

staff; Time: 3:45 to 4:45 P.M. Wednesdays: September 16, 23 and 30; October 14, 21, 28; November 4, 18; December 2, 9; Cost: $120 members/$180 non-members for the series of 10 classes After School Art II (ages 10 to 14) These weekly classes are designed to help older students improve their skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture, with projects related to works of art in the Museum galleries. All supplies are provided. Class size is limited to 10 students. Instructors: Donna Pickens and Museum Education staff; Time: 4 to 5 P.M. Thursdays: September 17, 24; October 1, 15, 22, 29; November 5, 19; December 3, 10; Cost: $120 members/$180 non-members for the series of 10 classes.

Tiffany’s Music Conservatory (ad on page 85)

Tiffany D. Orum (Musician, Songwriter, Recording, Producer, Vocal, and Piano Lessons, and Special Events) (256.750.1719) Email: benton_tiffany@yahoo.com or tiffany.orum3@facebook.com.

Abrakadoodle Art Education

Ignite your child’s imagination while developing their fine motor skills and art vocabulary. Let your child explore new art techniques and create their own unique masterpieces. We offer classes at many schools and locations in the Montgomery and surrounding areas. Online registration is open now! Visit our website to get full class listings and to register online. Call Susan Parker @ (334) 265.5758 for more information. Visit www.Abrakadoodle.com/AL01. Carver Elementary Extended Day Program (334) 269.3625 or (334) 269.3874. Enrollment is open to all children who live in Montgomery County in grades K-6. They offer piano, classical guitar, strings (violin, viola, cello and bass), visual art, drama, choral music, instrumental music and dance. Instruments are available for use through the school after proper paperwork is completed. Piano students must have an instrument upon which to practice. Registration is now going on. Please call for more information about registration dates and times.

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(ad Montgomery Youth Chorale (334) 265.3737, www.montgomerychorale.org. Sing all types of music from classical and jazz to gospel and pop. Purpose is to build self-confidence and a love of beauty through artistic preparation of excellent music. Please email info@montgomeryyouthchorale.org to schedule your child’s audition for membership. Please visit us at www.montgomerychorale.org for more information. Piano Lessons by Summer Whatley (334) 546.2699, Private piano lessons offered to homeschoolers and adults year round. Lesson slots offered between the hours of 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Lessons are $80 a month, which includes four 30 minute lessons. Will be teaching lessons at a local studio or in the privacy of your home. Students have won several local and state awards. Please call for more info. P’zazz Art Studio (334) 354.1975, 138 W. Main St. Downtown Prattville. Fall classes start August 31. Pick a day and time that fit your schedule. Classes meet once a week. $45 for the month. $20 supply fee per semester. This cover supplies for Aug. – Dec. Please visit us at www.pzazzart. com or for more information or call us.

Bowling BAMA Lanes

(334) 272.5423, 3020 Atlanta Highway. Youth leagues on Saturdays. Ages 4-21. Free Youth Clinic August 29 at 9:30 a.m. Pre-registration with free bowling.

Guitar & Music Lessons Chris Niel, Teacher. Call (334) 354.0896 or email cniel24@gmail.com. Weekly, 45 minute, one-on-one guitar lessons. Improvisation /theory lessons for any instrumentalist. Beginners to advanced.

BAMA Lanes in Prattville

Montgomery Symphony Youth Orchestra (334) 240.4004. Runs concurrent with the school year. Please call for audition date in Sept. Ages 13 and up. Orchestral Instruments. Call Sharon DeMuth at (334) 395.8370 or email abyfan@charter.net for information.

Brunswick Zone

(334) 358.8600, 1734 East Main Street. Youth leagues on Saturdays. Ages 4-20 . Registration TBD. Please call for more information. Free bowling with paid membership. Please call for more information. 1661 Eastern Blvd., (334) 819.7171. Youth Leagues will be starting up in the fall. Open house TBD. You may come in and sign up anytime. Please visit us at www.bowlbrunswick.com.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Dance/Gymnastics/Cheer Alabama Dance Theatre (ad on page 69)

(334) 241.2590, 1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery. The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering classes in classical ballet, pointe, pre-ballet (beginning at age 3), modern, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary and tap beginning August 17th. Company auditions for the Alabama Dance Theatre will be held Sunday, August 16th. Classes will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, home of the Alabama Dance Theatre. Website: www.alabamadancetheatre.com

Bama Blaze Elite Cheer (ad on page 64)

6016 east Shirley Lane, (334) 233-1921 All-star Cheer, Tumbling classes, Try-out prep, School and all-star choreography.

Dance Generation (ad on page 68)

65 Ashburton Drive, (334) 395.4300, Janice Ransom and Shawn Parker. Tap, Ballet, Lyrical, Pointe, Jazz, Baton, and Gymnastics. Ages 3 – 12th grade. Beginner,

Intermediate and Advanced levels. Open House Registration August 11 and 13 from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. Registration going on now. Classes begin in September. To pre-register you can call (334) 283.5249 or (334) 283.2201. Cost depends on class. Please visit www. dancegenerationstudio.com.

Laura’s School of Dance (ad on page 74)

47 N. Burbank Drive, (334) 322.7479 or atimeofdance10@yahoo.com. Offering Montgomery a Christian approach to the art of dance using Christian music to honor Him. Classes in ballet, pointe, tap and jazz. Ages 2 1/2 and up. Registration will be August 6-7 from 4 pm. until 7 p.m. Please call Jenny Moseley for more information.

The Montgomery Ballet (ad on page 64)

2101 Eastern Blvd, Suite 223 (The Courtyard), call (334) 409.0522 for information on classes. Mr. Joey and Mrs. Laura Villalovos, Co-Artistic and Co-School Director. The Montgomery Ballet is the producer of Performance on the Green, Ballet and the Beasts and The Nutcracker. Training provided in Classical Ballet for children and adults of all ages (2 1/2 to adult). Classes

for different levels, (divided both by age and skill). As the Official School of The Montgomery Ballet Company, we are committed to developing first class ballet artists through quality training by experienced professional dancers in a healthy, nurturing and disciplined atmosphere. Classes begin August 17th and the annual School Performance will be April 29th 2016. Open enrollment. Classes offered in Classical Ballet, Pointe, Variation, Modern, Tap, Jazz, and Limber Stretch. We also have a Youth Company. Please visit www.montgomeryballet.org.

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection (ad on page 63)

3370 Harrison Rd., (334) 277.1098. Fall registration on first two Tuesdays in August from 3 until 7 p.m. Classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, etiquette, Hip Hop, Gymnastics, Baton, musical theatre and ballroom. Ages 2 ½ to Adult (beginner and advanced) Please call for class dates and times. Preschool classes also available on site. Please visit us at www.tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.com. Armory Athletics Center 1018 Madison Ave., (334) 241.2789. Ongoing registration. Developmental (Ages 2-5) 45 minute classes: Various afternoon class times Monday through Thurs-

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day. Progressive Girls and Boys (Ages 6 and up) 1 hour classes: Various afternoon class times Monday through Thursday. Tumbling (Ages 6 and up) 1 hour classes: Various evening class times Monday through Thursday. Please call for rates. Centre of Performing Arts 975 S. Memorial Drive, Prattville: (334) 491.1192. Register now and classes begin in August 10. We focus on quality dance instruction by teachers with years of experience as we aim to provide superior training in various dance styles to children ages 2 years and up. Classes offered in Creative Movement, Ballet/Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Gymnastics, Lyrical, Modern/Contemporary, Hip Hop and Competitive Dance Teams. We are the #1 competitive dance studios in the State of Alabama. Visit the website www.centreforperformingarts.com. C.J.’s Dance Factory/Home of the Prattville Ballet 145 S. Court St. 334-467-8603 Voted the Best Dance Studio in the River Region. Two locations now open to serve three counties, studios in Prattville and Marbury. Registration on Thursdays in Prattville 5:30-7:00. OPEN HOUSE DANCE PARTY: Thursday, August 6th 6:30-8:30, refreshments will be served. Bring a friend discount! Professional instruction offered in: Tippie

Toes Pre Dance I Class (18 months- 3 year olds), Pre Dance II (ages 4-5 including afterschool hours), Basic Dance 5-9 year olds, Classical Ballet/pointe classes from beginner to pre professional, Jazz, Tap and Gymnastics~ Power Tumble (divided by both age and skill). We offer reasonable tuition with family discounts and tasteful, affordable costumes. Our instructors have college dance degrees and/or professional dance experience. Classes are designed to encourage and stimulate the progress of each student’s mental and physical capabilities by teaching in a professional environment. Performance opportunities are available for all students. Join our 8th year winter performance of the NUTCRACKER BALLET. Audition information will be announced on our website, visit http://c.j.dance.tripod. com, like us on Facebook and check out our video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UItDF6eOIO8.

Jazz, Tap, and Gymnastics. Class times vary according to age and level. Fall registration Mondays from 5:30 until 7:30 in July 20th, July 27th, August 3rd and August 10th at the Gym facility at 101A Penser Blvd. Open House will August 13 from 4-6:30 p.m. Classes start in August. Please visit our website at www.lisasdancedimensions.com.

Janey’s Academy of Dance Janey Ledbetter, 2620 East 3rd Street, (334) 265.5299. Ballet, Tap and Jazz. Classes for ages 3 through adult. Please call for more information on registration dates. Please visit us on Facebook.

Next Dimension Gymnastics 101A Penser Blvd., Millbrook, (334) 285.5515 or (334) 221.4622. Ages 18 months through adult. Classes offered: Parent/Tot Tumbling (ages 18mths-3), Tumble Tots (ages3-5), Super Hero Gymnastics (ages 3-5 boys), Junior Olympic Gymnastics (ages 5 and up), Cheer/Jump/Tumble (ages 7 and up). Class times vary according to age and level. Fall registration Mondays from 5:30 until 7:30 in July 20th, July 27th, August 3rd and August 10th at the Gym facility at 101A Penser

Lisa’s Dance Dimensions 2981 Main St., Millbrook, (334) 285.5515 or (334) 221.4622. Ages 18 months through adult. Offer Parent/ Tot, Rhythm, Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop, Modern, Lyrical,

Mann Dance Studio 422 Pratt St., Prattville, (334) 365.5154. The studio offers and excels in all forms of dance, offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes. Registration will be July 28th and August 4th from 5 to 7. Classes will begin August 11. Tap, Lyrical, Pointe, Ballet, Gymnastics, Hip Hope, Baton and Jazz. Call for class times and dates. Ages 3 and up. www.manndancestudio.net

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Blvd. Open House will August 111th from 4-6:30 p.m. Classes start in August. Please visit our website at www.lisasdancedimensions.com. River Region Ballet 7981 Vaughn Road, 356-5460. Please call for information on classes. Priscilla Crommelin Ball, Founder and Executive Artistic Director. Classes begin Sept. 8. Classes offered in Creative Movement (2 ½ - 3 years), Pre-Ballet (4-5 years), Beginning Ballet (6-7 years), Ballet Pre-Pointe, Pointe, Jazz. Classes for different levels, (divided both by age and skill). Audition information for the Alabama River Region Ballet’s Youth Company will be announced on our website. Please visit our website at www.riverregionballet.com United Gymstars & Cheer, L.L.C. (334) 284.2244, 6100 Brewbaker Blvd. Offer Babygym for infants to 1 & 2; KinderGym ages 3-4. Junior Gym ages 5 & 6 yrs. yrs. Progressive ages 7 and up. Full range of cheer classes ages 8 and up. We now offer a Jr. Cheer Class for ages 5-9. Tumbling and trampoline 5 and up. Boys preschool (ages 3 to 5), Boys progressive (6 & up). Call for times and prices. Family discounts available. Registration on a monthly basis. Parents night out offered. www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Drama Classes & Public Speaking

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Greta Lambert, (334) 271.5393, glambert@asf.net. Website: www.asf.net, these classes help students develop skills and confidence need for auditions or presentations. ASF Acting Academy: Acting Classes for All Ages Fall Semester: Mondays, starting in October Winter Semester: Mondays, starting in January For Students: Rising Stars (Grades 3-5) $200 Fall session: Mondays, October 5 - December 14 Time: 4:00-6:00 PM

Stage Door (Grades 6-8); $200 Fall session: Mondays, October 5 - December 14 Time: 4:00-6:00 PM For Teens: Curtain Call Players; $200 Fall session: Mondays, October 5 - December 14 Time: 7:00-9:00 PM For Adults: Actor’s Workshop; Cost: $200 Fall session: Mondays, October 5 December 14 Time: 7:00-9:00 PM

Educational BRICKS 4 KIDS (904) 357.0122, Felix Shuford Afterschool enrichment, in-school workshops, birthday parties and so much more. We service the Montgomery area and we look forward to reaching out and serving the children of this great city. We introduce the concept of S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Please call for more information.

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Horses MANE (Montgomery Area Non-Traditional Equestrians) (ad on page 66)

(334) 213.0909, Email: horsesandhope@yahoo.com www.maneweb.org. Fall session Sept 8-Nov 16 Applications available online. Successfully teaching independent riding skills to children with cerebral palsy, mental disabilities, autism, hearing impairment and other disabilities. Goals developed individually. Magnolia Hill Farm 3695 Georgia Road, Wetumpka Horsemanship skills for beginner through advanced riders. Riding lessons for both pleasure and competitive riders of all levels. Trails for both riding and hiking to include nature hunts. Swimming and fishing. 4-H based educational studies. Encouraging participants to build long lasting friendships of both the two and four legged kind. Call Rise Metcalf at (334) 220.3480. Seven Oaks Equestrian Center Located between I-85 and Vaughn Road, one mile south of The Waters, in Pike Road. Call (334) 260.7972 or (334) 657.1065. Riding lessons offered.

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Shade Tree Riding Academy (334) 290.3727 or (334) 546.3964, 566 Thornfield Dr., Millbrook. Gentle, experienced horses, easy trail and knowledgeable staff to assist beginners.

Martial Arts Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center (ad on page 67)

2179 Taylor Rd., Montgomery, 36116; (334) 220.5835; Anne Docarmo. www.trytkdfree.com. Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center offers an affordable family friendly martial arts program with no long-term contracts. Anti-abduction curriculum, Random Acts of Kindness Program, Academic Achievement Program and MORE all taught by nationally certified instructors...check us out! ***Ages 4 & older/Lil’ Dragons (ages 4-5) offered during the school year! With all memberships you receive a free uniform. Please visit www.trytkdfree.com.

Family Karate Center

8159 Vaughn Rd, Peppertree Shopping Center. (334) 277.4911. Montgomery’s Christian Martial Arts. Mon.Saturday (ages 2 and up): No enrollment fee, no contract. Specialize in ADD, LD, handicapped, mentally challenged, visually impaired, blind, autistic, deaf,

overweight children, and children with depression anxiety disorder. Founders of the “Stranger Danger Child Abduction Prevention Program, ASK MOM FIRST Child Molestation Prevention, and the How to Handle Bullies and Aggressive People Program. Family Karate Center now also offers Japanese Martial Arts Training and Weaponry. Master Carole Smith, is a certified posttrauma rape counselor, one of the highest ranking female instructors in the Southeast, and has 45 years of experience in self defense and counseling. We are the only martial arts school that offers a Mommy and me program for ages 2-4. All ages taught every day. We have a fully equipped fitness center that is free to our parents six days a week. Our referral program pays you $20 for every enrollment you send us. Military discount offered. Visit www.montgomeryfamilykarate.com.

Fleming’s Martial Art Institute (ad on page 66)

4315 Atlanta Hwy, (334) 277.KICK (5425). Family rates available. Free uniform with all programs. Karate Kubs (ages 3-5), Junior Taekwondo (3 and up), Junior Weaponry, and Junior Jia Jitsu (7 and up). Develops self-confidence, teaches self-defense, improves grades, develops coordination, promotes fitness and is fun. Call for times and prices. Please visit our website at www. flemingsmartialarts.com.

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Johnson Karate and Fitness Center

Tiger Park Taekwondo & Chung’s Taekwondo

(334) 284.2344, 2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J. Classes for ages 3 to Adults. At Johnson’s Karate & Fitness Academy we teach Tae Kwon Do, SelfDefense, Private Lessons, Fitness Kickboxing, Pilates, and Sport Karate. We are now offering early morning Kick Boxing classes. We offer free trial lessons. Phil. 4:13. Please visit us on Facebook at Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy.

3125 Bell Road, Montgomery, (334) 277.2627 Classes for everyone Ages 3 to adult. 3 weeks of lessons plus uniform for $55.00. Please visit on the web at www.tigerparktkd.com

Tiger Rock Martial Arts

(334) 244.1465, 2750 Bell Rd. Classes offered for children ages 4-5 (Tiger Cubs), ages 6-11 (Junior Program) and 12-15 (Youth Class) and Adults 16 + Please call us for more information regarding class times and schedules.

Martial Arts Center

2055 Harmon Street, (334) 271.2228. Martial Arts combined with discipline and etiquette. Martial Arts is good, clean fun for kids and a great way to give them a head start in life. Our primary focus is to teach children life skills. Because a structure of respect, courtesy and honesty is built into KUK SOOL, children develop the ability to learn, listen and achieve within a highly regulated environment. Ages 6 yrs.-8 yrs and 9 yrs – 15 yrs. Call for times and prices. Please visit us on Facebook at The Martial Arts Center Inc.

US Yoshukai Karate

290 N. Burbank Dr., David or Adrienne Coda, (334) 657.2032. Website: www.yoshukai.com, Email: yoshukai1@knology.net or visit us on Facebook under US Yoshukai Karate. Ages 5 and up. Call for details.

Recreational & Sports

NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville

698 Old Farm Lane N, Prattville, (334) 590.3759. Tang Soo Do, Li’l Dragons (4-6 years) and XMA (Xtreme Martial Arts) offered. Many programs available. Please visit us at www.nextgenmartialarts.com.

Frazer Upward Basketball (ad on inside back cover)

(334) 495.6459, Atlanta Hwy. Program available for girls 5 years through 9th grade and boys 5 years

Beginner Classes Start August 15

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Dance Classes

through 9th grade. Registration only during the month of October. Practice begins in December. Games begin in January. Please call for more information or visit our website at www.frazerumc.org.

Alabama Dance Theatre

Montgomery YMCA (ad on page 72)

28 after school sites. Offering over 100 different programs for all ages. Including inside and outside youth and adult soccer, football (grades 1-6), basketball (year-round & all ages), track, soccer (ages 6 & up), mini-soccer (ages 4 & 5), aquatic program, cheerleading (grades 1-6), Leaders Club & Tri-Hi-Y (grades 7-12), and much more. Fees vary by activity and membership. Boys and girls can enjoy teamwork, sportsmanship and healthy competition. Contact your local YMCA branch. Fall Outdoor Mini-Soccer for ages 4 & 6 Fall Season: September/November. Games are held on Tuesday or Thursday after 5 p.m. Registration begins in July. Season begins in August and will end in October. Football for ages 6-7, 8-9, 10, or 11-12 Season: September-November. Ages 6-12 (No 7th grade players will be allowed.) Games will be on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Registration will be going on until 17th. Cheerleading for ages 6-12 (no 7th graders allowed) Season: September-November. Games on Saturdays. Registration going on now until August 17th. Basketball for ages 4-15. Registration in September. Barracudaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Competitive Swim Team The YMCA has a year-round competitive swim program based at the East YMCA. Contact (334) 272.3390. Tryouts will held in August. Please call for more information. They can also be contacted online at www. ymcamontgomery.org. Soccer: Website: www.capitalcitystreaks.org Email: msanchez@capitalcitystreaks.org. Participants can sign up at any local YMCA. Recreational Soccer: Season- September-November and April-May. Ages 6-18. Games Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Registration is open now. Practice begins in August and games begin in September. Indoor Soccer: Season December-January, February-March, June-August. Ages 7-17. Games Monday, Tuesdays, Thursday, Friday and Saturday depending on age group. Registration TBA Indian Guide (Parent-Child Program) The Adventure Guides and Princesses offers activities for children K-3rd grade and their parents. Program that aids in the growth and development of families. Contact Jeff Reynolds at (334) 269.4362 for additional information. Starts in September. Other contact numbers: Soccer Branch, (334) 396.9754 or (678) 571-7605 Kershaw Center, W. Fairview Ave. (334) 265.1433 Cleveland Ave., Rosa Parks Ave. (334) 265.0566 Downtown, South Perry Street (334) 269.4362 East Y, Pelzer Avenue (334) 272.3390 Bell Road Y, Bell Road (334) 271.4343 Goodtimes Center, off Bell Road (334) 279.8666 Southeast Y, Carter Hill Road (334) 262.6411 Camp Chandler, Lake Jordan (334) 269.4362 Camp Grandview, Millbrook (334) 290.9622 James Wilson Jr, 1445 Wilson Park Dr., (334) 356.8471 Boys & Girls Clubs of the River Region Administrative Office, (334) 832.4288 Patricia Hackett; Chisholm, (334) 265.2469, 2612 Lower Wetumpka Rd., Tobarie Burton; West End, (334) 263.3371, 220 Crenshaw Street Cheryl Myrick; Wetumpka, (334) 478.4904 499 Alabama Street Provides programs and opportunities, which encourage young people, particularly the disadvantaged, to maximize their potential and become caring productive citizens of our community. Activities include character and leadership development, health and life skills, education and career development, sports, fitness and

Kitty Seale, Artistic Director

Age 3 to Professional Level

1018 Madison Avenue at the Armory Learning Arts Center www.alabamadancetheatre.com

241-2590

Fall classes begin Monday, August 17th, 2015 Now Accepting Registrations

Photography by David Robertson Jr.

recreation, and the arts. Clubs are open Mon-Fri from 3-9 p.m. during the school year and 9-5 on school holidays and in the summer. All locations serve children ages 6-18. $5.00 a year per child.

Boy Scouts

3067 Carter Hill Rd.; Marvin Smith; (334) 262.2697. About 100 Cub Scout packs located in various private and public schools, churches, etc. August/September, city wide Fall Recruitment night for Scouts, parents can enroll their child in a pack that night. Someone will be handing out brochures at all schools in August/September. Homeschoolers are welcome. Visit our website www.tukabatcheebsa.org.

Churches: Check local churches for programs. AWANA Programs are popular. www.awana.org Daycares: Please check with local daycare centers for the option of after school care. Check out Montgomery

Parents on the web at www.montgomeryparents.com and use our archived April Child Care Directory to get started.

Doster Center, Prattville

(334) 361.3640, 101 West Main Street, Prattville. Various after school activities include Afterschool Recreation Club for grades K-6th. Monday - Friday, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. (After school transportation provided.), Vacation Club Day (for school holidays when children are out of school but parents are still working) Grades K-6, 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Montgomery YMCA Goodtimes Center 2325 Mill Ridge Dr., off Bell Road, (334) 279.8666. Ages 5 to 12. Staffed from 2:30 to 6 p.m. After school programs are at the schools. Programs include snack and juice, homework time, music and language, storytelling time, outside activities, arts and crafts, projects, Science and Nature, multicultural activities, and

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creative time. Open registration. Also, before school programs at certain schools from 6:45 and 7 a.m. til school starts.

Girl Scouts

(334) 272.9164, 145 Coliseum Boulevard. Girl Scouts is a fun and exciting adventure in learning that encourages girls to be their best. Girls ages 5-17 may participate in girl scouting after school in traditional troops, during the school day through the in-school program, or through numerous outreach programs available throughout the area. Financial assistance is available to qualified girls for programs and events. Call for registration. Someone will be handing out brochures at all schools in August/September. Please visit our website at www.girlscoutssa.org. Prattville YMCA (334) 365.8852 or for the Prattville Bradford Branch call Betty Estes, (334) 358.1446. Registration going on now. Main After School Program, Kindergarten After School, Primary After School, Pine Level, and Daniel Pratt. Prepay first week at registration. Vans will pick up kids at public school and take them to the Main Site Program. Main Site cost is $50 for first child for members and $60 for non-members per week. Discounts for second and third children. Family discounts avail-

able. Other programs include Youth Legislature, grades 9 - 12. Fall sports are as follows: Football for boys ages 6-12; Cheerleading for girls ages 6-12; Little Dunkers Basketball for ages 4 & 5, Mini-Basketball for ages 6 & 7, Basketball for kids ages 8-17. Also cheer, tumble, gymnastics and swim lessons available. Please call for fall sports registration dates. Therapeutic Recreation Center Wendy Dobbs, (334) 240.4595, 604 Augusta Street For the mentally and physically challenged. Registration is in August. Various programs available. Classes run from 4 p.m. - 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Transportation is provided for Montgomery public schools. Space is limited, so please register on time. Please call for more information about registrations dates and times. Wetumpka YMCA (334) 567.8282. YMCA Goodtimes after hours for school age children (5 to 11 yrs) pick up and keep them until 6 p.m. Have several programs, including: Summer Camp, Youth Sports, Football, Volleyball, cheerleading, basketball, karate, T-Ball, Swim Team and soccer. Open registration. The following sports are available beginning in the fall: Football for boys’ ages 6-12, cheerleading for girls’ grades 1-6, Mini-soccer for ages 4-5.

Skating KLynn Skating School at the Eastdale Mall Ice Rink (ad on page 68)

(334) 272.7225. Montgomery’s Only Ice Skating School. Classes starting soon please call for dates and rates. Private Lessons Available. Call for more details or visit www.klynnice.com.

River Skate Montgomery

301 Bibb St., in downtown Montgomery. A skateboard, rollerblade, bike and scooter park. Membership is sold in seasonal passes. Call (334) 240.4561 for more details. Skate Zone 2000 (334) 567.4434, 88 Red Eagle Pkwy, Wetumpka. After school program available. Monday - Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. We will pick children up from schools in the Wetumpka area and Redland area. Ages K-12 yrs old. We pick up from Redland Elementary School and Wetumpka Elementary and Wetumpka Intermediate. Please call for more information and rates.

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

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promising careers. Let us prepare you for the future.

school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and FREE. All current 9th- and 10th-grade Alabama residents can apply. Learn more and register for Preview Day, the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual open house, at www.asms.net.

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net 71 admissions@asms.net

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Soccer FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal (ad on page 69)

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Boulevard (indoor/air conditioned) We offer a Fall and Winter/ Spring season which includes twice a week quality training with Coach Bruno together with his assistant coaches and interns after school hours. Indoor Futsal & Outdoor Soccer competitions are usually twice a month on Saturdays with very limited travel. Most of our games are local at our indoor Futsal facility on the Eastern Blvd. or at local outdoor Soccer fields. We also offer a Home School program. Registration is ongoing and the season starts August 31st. Please check our website for our training and games schedule

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

and team evaluation dates. Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach - Masters Phy. Ed.) Please visit www.fcmontgomery.com and contact coach Bruno brunomr@ fcmontgomery.com or (334) 207.5442.

Frazer Sonshine Soccer (ad on inside back cover)

(334) 495.6459, Atlanta Hwy. Held at Frazer Soccer Fields will be held in the Spring. Please call for more information or visit our website at www.frazerumc.org for more information.

AYSO297 Fall/Spring Soccer

Fall 2015/Spring 2016 Registration opens in August. Please visit us online at www. ayso297.org or visit us on Facebook under AYSO 297 for more information and for online payment option. You can reach us by email at board@ayso297.org.

YMCA Capital City Streaks (ad on page 72)

Website: www.capitalcitystreaks.org Email: msanchez@capitalcitystreaks.org. Participants can sign up at any local YMCA. Season- SeptemberNovember and April-May. Ages 6-18. Games Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Registration is open now. Practice begins in August and games begin in September. St. James Upward Soccer (334) 277.3037, 9045 Vaughn Rd. K4 through 4 grade (boys and girls welcome) Cost is $85 until August 9 then $95 until August 14. Practice begins the week of August 24. First game is Saturday, August 29. Please call or visit us at www. sjlife.com and click on the children tab.

Swimming/Scuba Adventure Sports Aquatic Center (ad on page 72)

1546 E. Ann Street, (3340 269.3483. Heated Indoor Pool Year Round. Swimming Lessons, Scuba and Life Guard Classes. Visit www. adventuresports2.com.

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YMCA Barracuda’s Competitive Swim Team (ad on page 72)

The YMCA has a year-round competitive swim program based at the East YMCA. Please call (334) 272.3390. Tryouts will be held in August. Please call for more information. They can also be contacted online at www. ymcamontgomery.org.

Tennis O’Connor Tennis Center (ad on page 63)

500 Anderson Street, (334) 240.4884. After-school Tennis Clinics offered during the school year for all ages. Please call or visit www.oconnortenniscenter.com for more information on dates and time. Hampstead Tennis (334) 207.9821, Jan Gelabert. Tennis lessons open to both residents and visitors interested in enjoying the fun of tennis. Players welcomed from beginner to advanced level play of ages, and offer weekly organized private lessons. Please call or email Hampsteadtennis@ att.net for details or information on our programs.

Wynlakes Tennis 7900 Wynlakes Blvd. (334) 273.8425. Two classes available: Peewee’s (ages 4-6) , Rising Stars (ages 7-9) and Excellence (ages 10-17) Please call for class times and days. Please call Danny Leal for more information.

Tutoring Huntington Learning Center (ad on page 70)

2800 Zelda Rd., (334) 277.9200. Individual testing and tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 - adult.

Kumon of Montgomery-Central (ad on page 9)

1655 Perry Hill Rd, (334) 279.1400. After school learning program for long term solution. We prepare your child to be a more independent learner in Reading and Math and developing their learning attitude. Kumon is one of the world’s largest afterschool programs. Please call or visit us at www.kumon.com/montgomerycentral.

Kumon Reading and Math Center (ad on page 9)

8125 Vaughn Rd, (334) 649.1178. After-school academic enrichment program that helps children achieve success. The Kumon Math program develops necessary skills to help children progress from counting through calculus. The Kumon Reading program begins with basic phonics and progresses all the way through advanced reading comprehension. Please call us or visit our website at www.kumon.com.

Mathnasium

(ad on page 73)

3457 Taylor Road, (334) 356.1570. We specialize in teaching kids math the way that makes sense to them. We provide: Expert tutors, Custom learning plans and personalized instruction, and Homework help. Please call or visit www.mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery.

Success Unlimited (ad on page 19)

2328 Fairlane Drive, (334) 213.0803. Aftercare available now from 12:15 pm until 3 p.m. Tutoring available for any subject. Tutoring provided by Christian certified teachers. Please call for rates. Call (334) 213.0803 to register. Class size limited. www.suacademy.com

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Sylvan Learning Center (ad on page 65)

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

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“Bee” Smart Tutorial & Childcare Center

1738 West 3rd Street, Montgomery; (334) 303-2627 Patricia Dean; patriciavdean@hotmail.com Get a Head Start on Good Grades! Does your child have low grades, need to get ahead in school, need after school care or need to get ready for Kindergarten? “Bee”Smart offers tutoring in Reading and Math, a wonderful Pre-K program as well as Homework Assistance, Computer Skills and Life Skills. Monday thru Friday (6am-6pm). Pre-K thru 5th Grade. Before and After School Pick-Up Available. Family Guidance Accepted. Ask us about our excellent Summer Enrichment Program.

Enjoy Learning Center

2500 Fairlane Dr., Bldg 2 Suite 203 (in Executive Park, east of Montgomery Mall) (334) 270.0234. One-on-one tutoring for ages 4 to adult. Math, science, chemistry, reading, comprehension, phonics, spelling, writing, graduation exit exam, ACT and SAT. Certified, skilled teachers. Credit/debit cards accepted.

MasterRead

2815-C Zelda Rd., (334) 271.6295 Grades K-12 individual tutoring. Sessions for reading, comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, math, composition, spelling, study skills and ACT/SAT preparation and Exit Exam preparation.

Miscellaneous Go Karting Montgomery (ad on page 85)

(334) 271.2020, 9033 Wares Ferry Road www.gokartingmontgomery.com. Come just for fun or book a party!

JoAnns’s Fabric & Craft Stores

Eastchase Market Center, 7951 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery, (334) 409.2640 Offering a variety of classes in Cake Decorating, Crocheting, Food & Cooking, Knitting, Quilting and Sewing. Please visit JoAnn’s for description of classes offered at this time and pricing. You can visit us on the web at www.joann.com

Mentor for Us

Come out August 1st to 3000 Southmall Community Center from 10:30-12:30 to register your daughters for our mentor organization. We empower, inspire, motivate and have fun all at the same time. If you miss registration, call Dorothea Henderson/Founder at (334) 246-2515 or email Mrs.dot.dh@gmail.com.

Michael’s

East Chase Market Center, 7991 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery, (334) 260.2846 Learn crafting skills when and where you want with online classes from Creativebug, or sign up for in store classes in jewelry making, art painting, paper crafting, mixed media, floral design, cake decorating or knitting and crocheting. Please visit your local Micheals for class descriptions, times and fees.

Please contact us if you know of after school activities not listed. Or email your info to editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I August 2015

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Luis, born September 1999, is a sweet child who has had a rough past. He needs love, structure, and consistency. Luis is very loving and affectionate. He just wants a home where he can be a normal child. Luis enjoys listening to rap music. He likes to play basketball and participate in outdoor activities. Luis is not a picky eater; he likes almost every food. He does not like when adults don’t keep their promises. He needs a family he can trust and that can help him with controlling his anger about his past. Luis A.’s video can be seen at www.HeartGalleryAlabama.com. To find out more about adoption in Alabama call 205-445-1293.

The four daughters of Susan Alred have been students at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection since Speed opened her doors in 1986. Lauren Pitts Morgan, Caitlin Odle, Bethany Odle and Lindsey Pitts Martin have all been members of the award-winning DC Strutters Competition Dance team. The studio will soon install a beautiful floating dance floor in honor of these girls with the generous gift they have presented!

‘Pearl Girls’ Pay Tribute to Founding Members

Pink-n-Pearls for Girls recently honored its honorary members at an induction ceremony. These members were recognized as being the original members of the organization and received honorary membership certificates and trophies. Afterward, a special dinner was held in their honor.

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Family Karate Center News

CJ’s Dancers Perform Well in Panama City

Members of the Prattville Ballet recently attended Dance Magic Nationals at Panama City Beach. They were awarded the highest honor, a Platinum Top First in the Classical Ballet division. The enchanting piece performed was “Ocean Symphony,” a beautifully executed water-themed classical ballet. The dancers, who train at C.J.’s Dance Factory in Prattville, were recognized by the judges for their outstanding technical ability.

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

During June, the instructors at Family Karate Center threw a big party for all the military families transferring away from Montgomery. “I know we get new families in each year, and that is wonderful, but we sure do miss the families that have to leave us after being with us for that entire year!” said chief instructor and owner Carole Smith. “We are really a family at our school, and we spend so much time together all week, so it is so hard to see these families transfer away after all the great training we had together.” During the party, each child and parent had the opportunity to get up and say what they loved the most Family Karate Center. “Every person mentioned what a close family our students are, and they thanked us for spending so much time with their children on the floor training, for their birthday parties, our Parents’ Night Outs, and all of our area demonstrations and events. There was not a dry eye in the house,” Smith added. “We do have our Facebook pages to keep in touch with these students as they start a new school at their new home!” Students who are new to Family Karate Center get one week free just by mentioning this article in Montgomery Parents. Smith also offers a free uniform and a tour of the school. Call (334) 220-9319 today. Family Karate Center is at 9159 Vaughn Rd. in the Peppertree Shopping Center.

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Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing

Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Grandma’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. This is a general overview of Alabama history in our museum galleries led by one of our staff or experienced docents. Stay tuned for upcoming events from the Archives, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/ Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac. org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with wellknown 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 communitybased 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) 4579254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. Central Alabama Contra Dancers Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and entire families are welcome. All levels of experience - including no experience. Dancing is on 1st and 3rd Fridays from 7-9 p.m. at the MASDA building, 2200 Popular St. For more info, visit www.contralines.com or email info@contralines.com. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have ac-

cess to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 3494235 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

August2015 and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www. blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown. com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www. touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/ person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. 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.

Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com! theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops and Parties for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com. 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. Friday Night Hoops Attention students in 5th through 12th grades: Are you looking for something to do on Friday nights? Get together with your friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.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,

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 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.

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Calendar/Support Groups 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. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are August 12 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info. YMCA 7 to 11 Club Calling all children ages 7 to 11 for this fun, free event. While Mom and Dad are working out, join us for games, arts & crafts, service projects and more. Earn special beads for participation and try to break records for superior achievements. Monthly special events will be hosted as well. Check with your YMCA center or visit ymcamontgomery.org for more details.

Classes

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Caring For Your Newborn Helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Partners are encouraged to attend. $20 fee per couple. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week evening series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, Caesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and newborn characteristics are included. A maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. This class is $60 per couple. Space is limited. Registration is required.

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more information. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp Fast-paced Saturday class including the same information offered in our weekly series in a compressed format. Maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. Fee is $60 per couple and includes 2 box lunches. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more information. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. 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. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. Content includes: Traffic Light Eating, Brainy Breakfasts, the Truth about Fats, Powering up with Protein and Play, and more! The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities, and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more information, contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors, but this class is not a certification class. $10 fee per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Fun, interactive 3-week series of nutrition classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; Optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; Transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken

August2015 separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more information contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook - www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Baptist Medical Center East class provides expectant mothers with 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 IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. $20 per couple. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. 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. Slow Flow Yoga Lunchtime Yoga Classes at Old Alabama Town. Take a break from your computer desk and relieve your body of all that stress with some slow flow yoga! Instructor Juliet Thomas provides downtown workers with a convenient way to stretch and reenergize before going back into the office. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to 310 N. Hull Street (Lucas Tavern) and we will direct you to a place to change and set up your mat. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days) Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. Pay by cash or check. Make checks payable to Juliet Thomas. Blocks will be provided. Avoid a big meal before class. Please arrive 5-10 minutes early. Wear comfortable clothing, something to easily move around in. Mats and props are provided if needed, although students may prefer their own mat after a few yoga sessions. Bring water to hydrate on your walk back to the office! No sugary drinks or other food allowed. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com

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 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

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the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/ patients_volunteers.html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Hannah Taylor at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org. Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Audrey Derevenko at (205) 943-5343 or e-mail adereven@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups. com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 for more info. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is

an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

Divorce Support

DivorceCare will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. You will experience the GriefShare group as an oasis in the midst of a difficult season of your life. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays starting August 22 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K), Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. This group is for children ages 5 and up and helps children of all ages heal from the pain of their parents’ separation and divorce. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Call (334) 495-6368. Divorce Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info.

Gambling Support

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

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 284-2721. We will also collect Toys for Tots for anyone interested in participating.

“Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 2728622 for more info. GriefShare will begin meeting weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. You will find a warm, caring environment for your journey through grief and loss. You will not be left alone to deal with all the grief issues in your life. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. GriefShare, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. HOM provides quality palliative care to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in our community affected by terminal illness; maintains the highest ethical standards; and educates the community about the hospice concept and end-of-life issues. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen. org or call (334) 328-1202. Hospice of Montgomery (HOM) Grief Support Each Wednesday in July from 10:30-11:30 a.m. The support group will meet at Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. HOM’s bereavement program is a voluntary one offered to family members and loved ones of HOM’s patient’s who want this type of support. Open to the community. Grief education programs are also available to individuals living within Hospice of Montgomery’s service area. For more info, call (334) 2796677 or visit www.hospiceofmontgomery.org. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Our purpose is to glorify God as we serve Him in comforting and encouraging each other in our grief and growth.

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

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Calendar/Support Groups Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. Each participant needs to bring a sack lunch. On the first Thursday of each month, the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (This group will NOT meet in January due to New Year’s Day.) For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. Cardiolife, a FREE 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. Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. It will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. This Christ-centered recovery will provide a safe place to share and to heal. You will also experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” will be led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. 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. (This group will NOT meet at Frazer in January due to New Year’s Day.) Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 201-9638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. 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 Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (2712280) for details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. This group is just getting started so a specific

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

meeting time has not been set yet. Location will be 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 3249568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or 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 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, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Our leaders are experienced breastfeeding mother volunteers who have completed an accreditation program through LLL International. At monthly meetings mothers share their questions and concerns as well as the benefits and joys of breastfeeding. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail us at LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www. llli.org/groups/@llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook facebook.com/LLL.Montgomery.AL. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http://montgomerymultiplesclub. org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? MOPS is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/ MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a

August2015 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. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Redland Baptist Church in Wetumpka. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of every month from 9-11 a.m. during the school year. We will also have scheduled play dates and mom’s nights out through the summer and beyond. Women can come just as they are to build friendships, be encouraged by each other and gain practical parenting strategies. Moms get together to share food, laugh, and hear inspiring speakers. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. In a MOPS group, you experience authentic community, mothering support, personal growth and spiritual hope, all to help you be the best mom possible. For more info, please call (334) 567-8649 or visit www.mops.org/redlandmops.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.

Single Parents Support

Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook—SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids) for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo. com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. 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. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on

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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, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more information, contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Teens/Families Support

Life is Fun Together (LIFT): This is a FREE program through Family Guidance Center of Alabama and a partnership with the Alabama Healthy Marriage and Relationship Initiative (AHMREI). LIFT provides relationship and marriage education and real-world skills through fun, distinctive workshops, information & referral services, ongoing support, and the LIFT library. Singles, non-married parents, stepfamilies, premarital couples, and married couples can all enjoy the benefits of LIFT workshops: ELEVATE blends 7 practical skills with an understanding of the physiology of human interaction (the heart-brain-behavior connection). Couples can get skills to help manage stress and reduce conflict. Learn how to relax, get to know each other more deeply, and make your relationship something you look forward to every day! In Relationship Smarts (RS+), participants learn what true love really is, the role of “brain chemicals,” how to build healthy relationships, how to handle breakups, the “red flags” to domestic violence, relationship skills, and so much more. Written for 9th through 12th graders, RS+ is a solid, basic curriculum for adults too. Date Nights! is a program for couples that are in committed relationships. Using the Basic Training curriculum, participants get the unique opportunity to enjoy a date together at a local restaurant- ON US! Topics include benefits of a healthy marriage, communication, surrender, problem-solving as a team, and intimacy. How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette) is a great program for singles and daters. Participants learn the technical definition of a “jerk” and how to spot one, how to build a healthy relationship, and the five things to know in order to be able to predict what someone would be like in marriage. For Couples Only is a must-have for any couple in any stage of their relationship. Using the Mastering the Mysteries of Love curriculum, couples go through intensive training in communication, conflict management, and problem-solving. Smart Steps for Stepfamilies was created for couples where at least one partner is not the biological parent of at least one child in the family. This curriculum is useful for all stepfamily couples regardless of whether the couple is married. A children’s component is often available. Contact Tonya Rogers at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter.org today! Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

Evangel Christian Academy Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education. Our desire is to help each child achieve his or her God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11

Accredited: AISA, SACS-CASI, & ACTS

N O W E N R O L L I N G K4-12 2015-2016

3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882

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This Month Sunday, August 2

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents 12th Annual Stars on the Riverfront -- Also August 3 Two spectacular free performances. Bring the entire family and a picnic and join the Alabama Dance Theatre as the sun sets on one of Montgomery’s most beautiful venues, the Riverwalk Amphitheater. These eclectic performances are the culmination of ADT’s two-week Summer Dance Seminar and will feature more than 50 dancers. Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. Gates open at 6 p.m. for picnicking. “Good to Go” Wind Creek Hospitality will be the local food vendor on site for each of the performances. Proceeds benefit the ADT Scholarship fund. The Riverwalk Amphitheater is located downtown, north of the Union Station train shed. Audiences should enter through the handicap accessible tunnel. Call (334) 241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre. com for more info.

Special Needs Skate -- Also August 16 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Tuesday, August 4

Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Tuesdays Through September 22 3-6 p.m. The Exchange shopping area by Kohl’s Department Store and Panera Bread just off Cobbs Ford Road. The Tuesday market will feature locally grown fruits and vegetables. Call (334) 595-0851 for more info.

Wednesday, August 5

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market.

The Capital City Master Gardener Association provides a monthly educational series called “Lunch and Learn,” on a variety of gardening topics in a classroom setting. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided.

Friday, August 7

Friday Night Hoops -- Also August 21 Attention students in 5th through 12th grades: Get together with your friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org.

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Calendar/Support Groups River Region “Stuff the Bus” School and Uniform Supply -- Also August 8 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday and 6 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. All four Montgomery Wal-Mart locations. Bombshell Media Group hosts this annual school supply campaign to support the Montgomery Public School system. The goal is to collect school supplies and uniforms for children in need. All donations will be equally divided and distributed to local schools in the Montgomery area. For info, e-mail bombshellmediagroup@gmail.com or call (334) 416-8458.

Saturday, August 8

Autograph Day with the Montgomery Biscuits Meet your favorite Biscuit and snag an autograph at the Montgomery Advertiser Autograph Day! The Biscuits will be available to sign autographs from 5-6 p.m. on the field at Riverwalk Stadium. Game begins at 6:35 p.m. Visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255 for more info. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/eve nts/1374454692792666/?source=1. Saturday Jam Sessions at Old Alabama Town Also August 22 Pick and grin at Saturday Jam Sessions in the Rose House at Old Alabama Town. Bring your acoustic instruments and have fun. 9 a.m.-noon. For more information, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com. Second Saturdays -- Through August 5-9 p.m. Riverfront Park holds this family-friendly event including live entertainment, games for all ages, food vendors and adult libations at the SandBAR at the Silos. NO OUTSIDE FOOD, BEVERAGES OR COOLERS! Live entertainment by Trotline at 6 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m. $1 admission. 12 and under free. Riverfront Wake Battle/Wake

Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Board Competition begins at 8:30 a.m. For more info, call 625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com. Magical Creatures Program at the Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-noon. Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in movies like Harry Potter series and The Hobbit. You will get a chance to meet animals up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself. Make new discoveries and new friends. Geared for boys and girls, 4-10 years old, advanced reservations required. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com for details. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic 10 a.m. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “Hulk’s Tanks” inspired by “Marvel Avengers Assemble!” Watch the animated series Sunday Mornings on Disney XD! Visit marvelkids.com for Avengers games and more!. Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s.

Sunday, August 9

Kids Day with the Montgomery Biscuits Also August 23 & September 6 5:35 p.m. start. Bring out the kids and join us for pre-game catch on the field and post game Coke Kids Run the Bases! Visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255 for more info. Military Meet & Greet at St James UMC 11am. Come experience worship at St James UMC, a thriving group of believers, committed to “Making... Empowering...and Sending Out...Fully Devoted Followers of Jesus Christ.” Sunday morning worship times are 8:30 Tapestry services, a blended service in the sanctuary, 9:45 Encounter contemporary service in the worship center, and 11:00 Traditions service in the Sanctuary. After the 9:45 Encounter service we invite all military and their families

August2015 to a Meet and Greet to be warmly welcomed and find out more information about the life of St James. Call 277-3037 for more info.

Tuesday, August 11

VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead community. Look for a big red barn! For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth.org or visit www. facebook.com/VegOutMontgomery. Dollar Dog Tuesday with the Montgomery Biscuits -- Also August 25 Join us for dinner and a baseball game! Come out for Dollar Dog Tuesday and get hot dogs for only $1! It’s also Future Farmers of America Night! Game begins at 7:05 p.m. Visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255 for more info.

Wednesday, August 12

Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. This month’s topic is Holiday Deocrating with Natural Materials. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more information, call the ACES office at 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

Thursday, August 13

Capri Classics Presents Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid 7:30 p.m. The classic film with Paul Newman and Robert Redford. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org.

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Hope Inspired Ministires Second Annual Fundraising Dinner 6-8 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, Montgomery. The evening will include a silent auction with pieces from local artists and guest speakers, Shannon Alvarez and Darrian Jackson, (graduates) who will share their stories of hope. Hope Inspired Ministries (HIM) serves people who are chronically unemployed and help them to obtain and maintain employment through a 13-week job training course that focuses on Life Skills, Employment Skills, Spiritual Development, and general education such as is needed for G.E.D. completion. Tickets are $50 per person. For questions about tickets or table sponsorships, contact Leanne at leannejordan7@gmail.com or for more info, call (334) 649-4330.

Friday, August 14

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. Buckmasters Expo -- Through August 16 Shop for hunting bargains from more than 300 exhibitors and vendors who are all a part of the biggest hunting sale ever! Experts from top manufacturers such as Mathews, Yamaha, Nikon and Easton will be manning booths. Watch the nation’s best archers compete in the Top Bow World championship, presented by Mathews Archery. Bring your kids to the Young Bucks area for games, hunting-related activities, mascots Bucky and Droptine, Balloon Man and much more. Admittance to the expo is free with a donation of a canned good per person. The expo is open from 3-9 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. For info, visit www.buckmasters.com. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Open House 10 a.m.-noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Free event. Families from any

county are welcome. We will have refreshments, kids’ activity tables, vendor tables, used curriculum for sale, and information about our upcoming activities. Contact us at elmore.co.homeschool.org@gmail.com or see event listing on Facebook.com/elmore.county.homeschool.organization.

Saturday, August 15

Elvis: the Early Years at Alabama Shakespeare Festival 7:30 p.m for a one-night only concert. Scot Bruce’s authentic, high-octane portrayal of the King is guaranteed to have you ALL SHOOK UP! Make it a special date night, and let us do the cooking! Enjoy a Memphis-inspired menu prepared by Jennie Weller Catering. Reservations can be made at www. asf.net or through the ASF Box Office at (334) 271-5353. MPAC Presents Diamond Rio 8 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Hits include “Meet in the Middle,” “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” “Norma Jean Riley,” “Beautiful Mess,” “Love a Little Stronger” and “One More Day.” Tickets are $32 and may be purchased at www.mpaconline.org or by calling (334) 481-5100. True Divine Community Development Hosts a Community Yard Sale 7-11 a.m. Every third Saturday through October. 4525 Virginia Loop. To sign up for $10 booths, call 286-4008. Color in Motion 5K 9 a.m. at Montgomery Raceway Park. As you sprint, jog, waddle, or leisurely stroll along, you will be bombarded with bright colors that transform a group of ordinary runners into a moving rainbow. For more info, call (208) 538-9502 or e-mail info@colorinmotion5k.com. Also visit colorinmotion5k.com/Montgomery. GO Fish Catch and Release -- Also August 16 Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook. Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. Call 285-4550 or visit www.alabamawildlife. org. Admission charged.

Tuesday, August 18

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform

original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Thursday, August 20

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “Visions of Flying Machines: Early Aerial Experimenters in Alabama,” presented by Billy Singleton. Call 353-4726 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov. Military Open House at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 5:30-7:30 p.m. All active, reserve and retired military personnel and their families are invited to the Museum for an evening of family fun. Guests will enjoy art-making activities, music and dinner catered by Wintzell’s Oyster House. The galleries and ARTWORKS will be open for everyone to enjoy. This event is our way of saying thank you for your service and is free of charge for all military families. For more infor, call (334) 240-4333 or visit www.mmfa.org. Deadline to Apply for Fall Master Gardener Classes in Elmore County Applications for the Elmore County Master Gardener 2015 Fall Class may be obtained at the Elmore County Extension Office at 340 Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka. Completed applications must be returned to that office no later than August 20. The classes will be held on consecutive Thursdays September 10-November 19, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. with a light lunch provided. The fee for the class is $125 to be paid after notification of acceptance into the class by letter from the County Agent and before the first class on September 10. Those graduating from the class will be honored at a ceremony in August 2016. Master Gardener Class subjects may include Basic Landscape Design, Plant Selection, Pruning, Plant Physiology, Soils and Plant Nutrition and Vegetable Gardening. Class instructors will include Alabama Cooperative Extension County Agents, experts from

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Calendar/Support Groups Auburn University and experienced Master Gardeners. The Central Alabama Master Gardeners Association (CAMGA) will host the classes. For more info, call (334) 567-6301.

Friday, August 21

16th Annual Live Maine Lobsters Claws for a Cause 3-6 p.m. Don’t miss the 16th Annual Live Maine Lobsters Claws for a Cause to support MACOA and Meals On Wheels. Order your Live Maine Lobster for $30 ($15 per lobster is tax deductible). For more info and to reserve your lobster today, please contact Chacolby Burns-Johnson, Development Coordinator, at cjohnson@macoa.org, (334) 263-0532, or order online at http://www.macoa.org/online-donation-form. Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/first child; $15 per sibling. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walk-ins welcome (until maximum capacity is reached).

Saturday, August 22

4th Saturday Outreach Event 9-11 a.m. River City Church, a United Methodist congregation, invites the entire community to this event at the church, located at 301 Dexter Avenue. Admission is free. The River Region will have access to blood pressure/glucose screenings, career services, free haircuts, hygiene items and canned goods. Participants can register for a drawing for a weekly bus pass and gasoline gift cards. During the 2-hour period, attendees can speak with prayer partners and purchase items (clothes, furniture, etc.) in the River City Rummage Sale located in the lower level of the church. Nurses will screen for diabetes (glucose testing), assess body mass index, blood pressure, and other vital signs. Volunteers will also provide homework help and a craft for children. For more info, please call 263-0549 or visit www.rivercityumc.com. Benefit the Bard Featuring Michael Bolton Live in Concert Alabama Shakespeare Festival. 8 p.m. All proceeds from this event will fortify ASF and its artistic and educational programs. For more info, contact Lindsey at ljinright@asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.

Thursday, August 27

The Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of Montgomery invites women who are area residents to attend our monthly luncheon from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. This

August2015

luncheon will feature a speaker who will give us some tips for “Fitness Over 50.” Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, August 24, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com for more info. River Region College Night at the Montgomery Biscuits 7:05 p.m. Just because fall semester has started doesn’t mean summer has to end! We invite all local college students and alumni to come out and show their pride for the colleges in the River Region! Visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255 for more info.

Saturday, August 29

Montgomery Dragon Boat Race & Festival 2015 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Almost 80 teams will converge downtown at the Montgomery Riverfront Park to paddle and party on Race Day in pursuit of the Grand Championship Trophy while supporting the missions of two local beneficiaries, Bridge Builders Alabama and Rebuilding Together Central Alabama. The Riverfront Park will be alive with music, entertainment, and more than 30 local vendors, artists, and exhibitors while teams compete on the water in view of more than 8,000 spectators! For more info, call (334) 625-9411 or visit montgomerydragonboat.org/.

Wednesday, September 2

Newcomer Women’s Group at St James UMC 6:15pm. Join other women new to the area and find support and encouragement during the transition process of a move. This group will offer friendship, connection, and the path to emotional well being and spiritual growth. We will meet on Wednesday nights at 6:15pm at St James UMC. Children, Youth ministry, and Men’s LIFE groups also have exciting times of worship and spiritual growth during that time. Wednesday night supper is available for $5 per person or $20 per family. Register or questions: www.sjlife.com under Belong section or email Ann Pemberton at annpemberton@ charter.net.

Thursday, September 3

Friday, September 4

Charities Night & Biscuits Jersey Auction 7:05 p.m. Join us in celebrating the outstanding work of the Biscuits 2015 Charity Partners. Be sure to also bid on your favorite Biscuits game-worn jersey at the silent auction during the game. Auction proceeds will benefit the River Region United Way. MAX fireworks follow the game! Visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255 for more info.

Tuesday, September 8

Tonya Speed Hosts Auditions for Moscow Ballet 6:30 p.m. Audition to dance with Moscow Ballet in the Great Russian Nutcracker. For ages 7-16. Register at nutcracker.com/audition. Tonya Speed Dance Connection, 3370 Harrison Rd., Montgomery. Call (334) 277-1098 or e-mail ucantap2@charter.net for more info. Performance will be held Tuesday, November 24, at 7 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre.

Thursday, September 10

Broadway Under the Stars 7:30-9:30 p.m. Pack a picnic and invite your family and friends to come enjoy an evening of Broadway hits performed by the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra amidst the beauty of the Blount Cultural Park. This FREE event takes place lakeside at the park in front of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Come early and bring your lawn chairs, coolers and blankets for this family-friendly event. The concert is generously sponsored by Regions Bank. For more info, call (334) 240-4004 or visit www.montgomerysymphony.org/.

Saturday, September 12

Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Pre-registration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/events to register or for more info.

Alabama/Auburn Night at the Montgomery Biscuits 7:05 p.m. Give us a “Roll Tide” or a “War Eagle!” Come out and show your team spirit and help us get ready to kick off football season! Visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255 for more info.

Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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

Adventure Sports II, 72 Alabama Christian Academy, 20 Alabama Dance Theatre, 69 Ala. Dept. of Health, Inside Front Alabama School of Math & Science, 71 Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 45 Aldersgate UMC, 18 ASKIN/Synergy House, 86 Bama Blaze Elite Cheer, 64 Baptist Health, 39 Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 16 Bradford Health Services, 59 Central Alabama Junior Cotillion, 51 Chapman Orthodontics, 32 Children’s Clothing Exchange, 21 Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 35 Churchill Academy, 37 Dance Generation, 68 Dentistry for Children, 14 Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 67 Doodlebugs Consignment, 24 Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 18 Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 42 E & S Hobbies, 85 Eastdale Mall, 4 Easter Seals Central Alabama, 27 Edgewood Academy, 41 Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 42 Evangel Christian Academy, 81 Evolve Church Learning Center, 21 Families of the Year Awards, 55 Family Support Center, P’ville, 85 FC Soccer Montgomery, 69

First UMC, Montgomery, 76

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 74

First UMC, Prattville, 28

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 34

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 66

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 52

Frank Johnson Cove, 16

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 85

Frazer Memorial UMC, Inside Back

My Kids Attic, Consignment Sale, 17

Go Karting Montgomery, 85

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 31

Great Leaps Learning Center, 29

New Park, 49

Greengate School, 2

New Waters Realty, 36

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 25

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 63

Hooper Academy, 28

Plexus Slim, Rhonda McClellan, 85

Huntington Learning Center, 70

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Interscapes, Inc., 84

Providence Early Childcare/Preschool, 57

It Works, 8

Pump It Up Party, 43

Jenny Alexander, MD, 85

Riverview Camp for Girls, 30

Journey Church Preschool, 24

ROCK Campaign, 47

KLynn Ice Skating School, 68

Saint James School, 1

Kids Carousel, 27

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 13

Kindermusik of Montgomery at FBC, 75

Smiles Galore Parties, 33

Kingry Orthodontics, 41

South Montgomery Academy, 33

Kreative Moments, 86

Spacewalker, The, 17

Kumon, 9

Spotless Cleaning Services, 11

Laura’s School of Dance, 74

Success Unlimited Academy, 19

Learning Tree Child Care, 38

Sylvan Learning Center, 65

Legacy Early Learning Center, 53

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 83

Little Lights Creative Learning Ctr, 86

The Big Green Bus, 83

Lori Mercer Photography, 61

The Dollhouse Toy Store, 86

Macon East Academy, 15

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

M.A.N.E., 66

Tiffany’s Music Conservatory, 85

Mathnasium, 73

Tonya Speed Dance Connection, 63

MelodicVibes, LLC, 65

Trinity Presbyterian School, 7

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 29

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 14

Montessori @ Hampstead, 26, 82

Vaughn Road Preschool, 22

Montessori @ Mulberry, 32

Vishnu Dental, 75

Montgomery Ballet, 64

Whitfield Preschool, 40

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 23

YMCA, Montgomery, 72

Montgomery Integrative Health, 40

Zsa Zsa’s Boutique, 44

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Paper Towns

Ant-Man

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: B+ Language: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Ant-Man PG-13 for sci-fi action violence. I suspect many of us comic strip newbies will approach Ant-Man in much the same way we did the Guardians of the Galaxy debut. I’ve heard of The Incredible Hulk and Captain America, but Ant-Man? Sorry. No idea. Based on what this movie teaches us about his origin story, Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) is another Tony Stark -- an ordinary guy whose suit makes him extraordinary. Looking much more stretchy and nimble than Iron Man’s full body cast, Scott’s Ant-Man getup gives him the ability to become teeny-weensy with the push of a button. The gimmick is a Cold War era invention of Dr. Hank Pym (Michael Douglas), who discovered he could reduce the empty space between atomic particles, thereby making objects much smaller and denser, while also increasing their strength. However, like so many Marvel Universe inventors, his creation is hijacked for military use by Howard Stark (John Slattery) and weapons dealer Mitchell Carson (Martin Donovan). But they were missing one key aspect of Pym’s secret, which prevented them from ever putting it to use. Fast forward to the present and Dr. Pym discovers his former apprentice Darren Cross (Corey Stoll) is on the brink of putting the puzzle together. It’s about this time when Scott, who has made some bad life choices, decides to break into the Pym residence. Fortunately, the thief’s creative B&E skills impress the scientist. The aging man has been looking for a new candidate to wear the incredible shrinking suit – one he hopes will conspire with him to stop Cross from putting the final touches on his version of the minimizing machine. Perhaps the most attractive aspect of the Marvel Comics franchise is the interplay between characters and references to other super heroes. And those are abundant here. Even those of us who haven’t got a clue what the backstories are, can still laugh along with the gags -- and then pester our comic geek friends to fill us in after the show is over. Even better, Ant-Man reduces the objectionable content found in many action films to the point where parents may find this production suitable for ‘tweens and teens. As a role model, Scott is a poor example when he figures the only way he can get the money needed to make his child support payments is to turn to crime. Yet, by the end, his more positive choices prove he is willing to sacrifice for others. Perhaps the greatest victory for this script is its ability to transform such an implausible concept into something that seems almost logical. (The movie’s pre-release trailer did nothing to convince me this tale would be more than a laughable bomb.) With nano-technologies making headlines in reality, Ant-Man allows our imaginations to believe a shrinking suit could have a useful purpose in our weapons closet.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: BSexual Content: C+ Language: C Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated Paper Towns PG-13 for some language, drinking, sexuality and partial nudity - all involving teens. In Paper Towns, we are immediately introduced to Quentin (Josiah Cerio/ Nat Wolff), who grows up from a young boy to a high school senior in middle class Orlando, Florida. During these years his success with school has been dampened by a persistent childhood crush on the girl next door. Margo (Hannah Alligood/Cara Delevingne) has more of a taste for adventure than her timid neighbor -- something Quentin learns when the childhood chums stumble upon the body of man who has committed suicide (some blood is shown). While Margo’s inquisitive side comes alive trying to uncover the details of the mystery, Quentin wants to wash his hands of the disturbing situation. The incident proves to be a turning point of their friendship. By high school the pair hardly even acknowledge each other in the halls. Then, suddenly, Margo shows up at her neighbor’s bedroom window, just as she used to when they were kids. Convinced she can talk her long time admirer to join her, she berates Quentin for his cautious personality and advises that happiness should be had now, as opposed to waiting until after he’s completed his career goals, which include medical school. The argument works and Quentin concedes to stealing his mother’s van and taking part in an evening of committing vengeful and illegal acts against those who have wronged Margo over the course of her short life. When the morning sun rises, a cheating boyfriend has been caught running naked from a Margo’s best friend’s house (we clearly see him from the side and rear), another nemesis has an eyebrow taken off while asleep (hair removal cream works so well in the movies) and Lacey (Halston Sage) -- a second girlfriend deemed inconsiderate -- has her car wrapped in plastic wrap. Margo is satisfied and Quentin, who is convinced they have finally bonded during their hijinks, is more love-struck than ever. Then Margo disappears. Not wanting to reveal his involvement in the missing girl’s shady activities, Quentin tells the police and Margo’s parents that he only saw her for a moment that final night. However, his unfailing admiration for her motivates him to try and find her himself. While not particularly inspiring from an artistic perspective, the solid performances by a young cast will likely make this an appealing watch for its target demographic. Considering the mixed messages embedded in the story, along with teen rebellion and promiscuity, parents would do well to share the experience with their kids and/or be prepared to discuss their perspectives.

What Parents need to know about Paper Towns...

What Parents need to know about Ant-Man...

Violence: Young children find the body of a suicide victim who has a bloody wound. Out of a desire for vengeance, teen characters commit acts of vandalism. A man fires a gun to scare away intruders. Students skip class and trespass on private property. Sexual Content: Teen couples hug, kiss (sometimes passionately with fondling) and announce that they are engaged in sexual relations. A boy cheats on his girlfriend. A naked teen is seen from behind when he flees his girlfriend’s bedroom so her father won’t catch him. Other male characters are seen wearing only their underwear, and female characters are shown scantily dressed. A teen boy talks about sex, past sexual activities and fantasizes about having sex with his best friend’s mother. Male characters shown urinating in two scenes. Language: Mild and moderate profanity, scatological slang and terms of deity. Crude and sexual slang terms heard frequently, with a few anatomical slurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: Teen characters drink at a party, some to excess, and one is portrayed as extremely drunk. Montgomery Parents I August 2015

Violence: Characters frequently fistfight and punch one another – bloody injuries occasionally result. Break-and-enters, car theft, and other robberies are depicted. A character escapes from jail. Humans and animals are killed by a gun that reduces their bodies to a blob of goo. Characters are in constant peril, especially when they shrink to a miniature size. Ants bite, swarm and crawl on people, causing minor injury and major property damage. Characters die in heroic ways. Weapons use, gun threats and explosions are depicted. A child’s safety is threatened. Sexual Content: Prostitutes are briefly shown. A man is seen (from the back) using a urinal. Breast fondling is mentioned. A couple is caught kissing. Language: Mild and moderate profanities are used. A couple terms of deity are used as expletives. A sexual slang term is used. Alcohol / Drug Use: Social drinking is shown. A sleeping pill is given to some unsuspecting characters. 88

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