Montgomery Parents August 2014 by KeepSharing

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Producing Leaders Since 1955 CONGR ATULATIONS Margaret Ann Kreher Montgomery’s Youth Mayor Cassie Sadie Alabama’s Youth Governor-Elect Win Woodson Alabama’s Girls State Governor

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Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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August2014

Columns

Volume 19 Number 8

6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

For the Love of Learning

Alcohol, Sex & Peer Pressure

Advice for handling these tough topics with your kids.

Learn four ways to teach them to enjoy school.

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen

30 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

34 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Jeffery E. Langham

38 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

44 Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

2014 After School Activities Guide

Is Your Child Overwhelmed?

These prescriptions will assist you in helping them manage their stress.

On The Cover Maddison Askins (17) is entering 12th grade at Prattville High School where she is head drum major and plays clarinet. Maddison’s parents are Sherri & Scott Askins of Prattville. She has three siblings--Cassidy (19), Colby (15), and Sydney (13). Maddison was awarded Most Outstanding Drum Major at leadership camp in Auburn, plus she is a member of the National Honor Society, spokesperson for Suicide Prevention Organization and a three-year participant in the Alabama All-State Band. Maddison is pictured at StanleyJensen Stadium in Prattville.

66 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 74 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 can signify different things for different families. Maybe you are sending your firstborn off to school for the first time and want to instill excitement in them about learning. Or perhaps you have a child going into middle school where they will begin dealing with pressures to participate in behaviors you want them to avoid. Further, some parents are dealing with a child who gets overwhelmed about the very idea of going to school each day and trying to juggle homework and other expectations. This month’s Back to School Issue touches on all these topics and more! Whether you are sending an excited kindergartner off to school or have an older child who claims they hate school, be sure to read For the Love of Learning, where author Christina Katz shares four ways to teach your kids to truly enjoy education. Christina’s other article in this month’s issue helps you help your child manage their stress. Even kids get stressed out with busy schedules, homework, projects and the like. Learn to help them prioritize, keep perspective and maintain a good balance in Is Your Child Overwhelmed? Watching our little ones embark on an age where peers are talking about trying alcohol or where they are hearing conversations about sex can be alarming for parents at first. Giving our children correct information, plus the tools they need to combat peer pressure, is so important. Keeping an open line of communication is key. Sandra Gordon helps us tackle tough topics with our kids in her feature, Alcohol,

Sex & Peer Pressure. One of the best parts of going back to school for children is surely the kick-off of new after school activities! Every August we give you a comprehensive listing of enriching after school programs including art, dance, martial arts, sports, horseback riding and much more. Whether your family likes to load up on activities or keep it simple with one per child, you’ll find what you are looking for in our After School Activities Guide. Registration for many of these is open now, so don’t wait! While the summer is relaxing and slower paced, there is something about getting back into a normal routine that most of us crave. So get those uniforms, supplies and lunch boxes ready, and have a wonderful 2014-15 school year!

DeAnne

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen Robert Coggin, M.D. Sandra Gordon Laura Handey Christina Katz Dr. Jeff Langham John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com

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

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Ad Design Tim Welch Member

Like Montgomery Parents on Facebook for monthly parenting tips, fun ideas, giveaways and more! Montgomery Parents I August 2014

Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2014 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

What Discipline Will Best Stop a Child’s Chronic Lying? Q: We are very concerned about our 8-year-old grandson’s lying. He always pleads innocence and wonders plaintively why no one ever believes him. When someone confronts him with some misdeed they saw him do (example: poking holes in the back door screen), he merely shrugs his shoulders and grins. His parents have punished him repeatedly by taking away screen privileges, but to no avail. They’ve also told him the story of the boy who cried wolf to explain why no one believes him. This has been going on since he was a small child. We are all concerned about what is looming down the road. A: Lying is one of the most difficult of problems to solve. It quickly become habit and turns into a major parentchild power struggle, both of which are obviously the case here. We psychologists are trained to think that habitual lying is an expression of deep-seated dysfunction in the family, but I have not found that to be always, or even usually, the case. Sometimes the answer to “why?” is obvious; sometimes, it seems as if the problem developed quite “by accident.”

What’s looming down the road is anyone’s best guess. Sometimes, a child who is a habitual liar “outgrows” (for lack of a better term) the problem during his teen or early adult years. Sometimes, the problem persists well into adulthood and becomes a significant handicap to any chance the individual may have at life success. The further problem is that—as you folks have discovered—the habitual liar often seems impervious to punishment. The secondary reward of playing catand-mouse overrides the impact of any negative consequence. Let’s face it, during the game of cat-and-mouse, the child is in complete control of the family. That’s a powerful tonic. I’ll wager that in response to his lying, this boy’s parents have taken privileges away for a day, maybe a week. If so, that’s not going to cut it. Serious problems require serious consequences. You can’t stop a charging elephant with a flyswatter. With that in mind, I have some recommendations that I’ve seen work with other child prevaricators.

First, everyone needs to stop talking to him about the problem, including repeating the story of the boy who cried wolf. You’ve all said enough. It’s time to act. Second, you cannot afford to ever give him the benefit of doubt. If you THINK he’s lying, then he’s lying. End of conversation, end of story. Third, take all of his prized possessions, activities, and privileges away. Put up a 30-block chart on the refrigerator. He gets his possessions, activities, and privileges back when he has gone for 30 consecutive days without lying (or, more accurately, doing anything that causes anyone to even THINK he’s lying). Every day that he manages to keep his bad habit in check, he gets a smiley face in one of the blocks on the chart. If he lies, the chart comes down and a new 30-day chart goes up. You do that even if he goes 28 days without lying and then lies on day 29. It’s absolutely essential that you folks cut him no slack during his rehabilitation. Be aware that it may take him six months to succeed with a 30-day chart. If you hang in there, this can pay off handsomely for everyone.

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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MPAC Events

Vicarious Vacations at Old Alabama Town

AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo Saturday, August 9 *7-11 a.m. Lanark in Millbrook The Alabama Wildlife Federation Youth Fishing Rodeo program is designed to provide Alabama’s youth a chance to experience the outdoors and learn about fishing. The rodeo is open to anyone age 15 and under. Admission is free; however, participants are asked to pre-register as space is limited and all youth must be accompanied by an adult. Each young angler will receive a t-shirt and will be eligible for door prizes. Snacks and drinks will also be available. In addition, each participant may take home five catfish each, but may catch and release all they would like. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment and bait, though a limited number of loaner rods and reels and some bait will be available on site. Register now at (334) 285-4550 or visit www.alabamawildlife.org for details!

Saturday mornings August 2-30 Free admission. 10:45 a.m.-noon. Beat the heat with Vicarious Vacations, a weekly “journey” to exotic locations, all from the comfort of our auditorium at Old Alabama Town. Enjoy themed refreshments as you join us on grand adventures around the world. August 2 is Nepal; August 9 is Australia; August 16 is France; August 23 is Sicily; and August 30 is Egypt. Visit www. oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500 for more information.

Magic on Main!

The Prattville Downtown Unlimited Merchants stay open each third Tuesday during the summer months offering specials as part of “Magic on Main.” Entertainment kicking off the most recent event was provided by dancers from C.J.’s Dance Factory in Prattville. The “Pineapple Princesses” preschoolers finished their summer Little Ballerina Camp with a performance in front of City Hall. The next Magic on Main will be August 19.

Christian Comedian Tim Hawkins

Prattville First Baptist Church August 24 at 6 p.m. Call (888) 7801116 or visit www.fbcprattville.org/ for tickets.

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

Travis Tritt August 16 at 8 p.m. A country music rebel, singer Travis Tritt scored numerous hits in 1990s and 2000s with his bluesy-Southern rock infused sound. In 1989, Tritt released his first album, Country Club, which was followed by several platinum albums and chart-topping singles throughout the 1990s. *This is a Buckmasters-sponsored event and tickets are limited.

Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend

September 12-14 Atlanta’s Fox Theatre Visit http://foxtheatre.org/ for details and ticket information. 10

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Widespread Panic October 8 at 8 p.m. Since the group’s formation in Athens, Georgia, in 1986, Widespread Panic has risen to elite status among American jam bands. With an enormous catalogue of music to choose from, the band is known for never playing the same set twice and holding the record for sold-out performances at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. With eleven studio albums, ten live albums and more than 3 million records sold, Widespread Panic is a true staple of the American music scene. Tickets are on sale now at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Call 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org.

Montgomery Dragon Boat Race & Festival

August 23 * 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Almost 80 teams will converge downtown at the beautiful 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) 625-2100. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Biscuits Family Events

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Military Open House at the Art Museum

August 14 @ 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Museum appreciates the service and commitment of military personnel and their families and takes this opportunity every year to show our appreciation. Local active duty and retired military personnel and their immediate family are invited to attend Military Open House. The festivities include art-making projects in the Studios, live music, and a buffet dinner. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333 for more info.

Capri Classics Presents

For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org.

Freebie Friday August 8 Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. Premium giveaway sponsored by AUM. Autograph Day August 9 Riverwalk Stadium at 6:35 p.m. After the game, stick around for MAX Fireworks Spectacular! Kids Day Sundays August 10, 17 & 31 Riverwalk Stadium at 5:35 p.m. Kids Play Catch on the Field & Run the Bases! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Cloverdale Playhouse Holds Auditions for Lion, Witch & Wardrobe

August 14-15 Open to young actors age 7 through 18. No experience required. Attend one of those two nights from 6 to 9 p.m. The production will run September 2628 starring young actors. Visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Magical Creatures Education Program

Saturday, August 9 * 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. Make new discoveries and new friends. Geared for boys and girls, age 4-10 years old. Advanced reservations are required. Call (334) 240-4900 for more information or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Concussions On August 8, 2011 Gov. Robert Bentley signed into law the Alabama Concussion Law. This was in response to an estimated 3.8 million traumatic brain injuries suffered each year in young people 10-19 years of age. Many of these injuries required Emergency Room or doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office visits costing millions of dollars. Approximately 7% of these injuries result in hospitalization and it is estimated that as many as 900 individuals a year die as a result of their injuries. Typically, these injuries are thought of as occurring while participating in contact sports such as football, however, these injuries can occur in any sport. About 60% of concussions in boys occur in football. Soccer is the most common sport for concussions to occur in girls, mainly due to repeated headers of the ball. Concussions can even occur in golf from cart accidents and cheerleading due to falls from formations. Concussions also occur outside sports in falls at home or motor vehicle accidents. A concussion is a complex traumatic brain injury, usually from a blow to the head that causes the brain to move quickly back and forth, impacting against the inside of the

skull. This results in the function of the brain to be impaired from mechanical injury and metabolic disruption of neurochemicals in the brain. Basically, the brain just stops working normally. The effects of the injury may occur quickly, but may be delayed from hours to days. It may take from minutes to months for symptoms to resolve. Common symptoms of a concussion include: headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, loss of memory, poor concentration, mood or behavior changes, and sensitivity to light or noise. Loss of consciousness, although important, does not necessarily occur. The Alabama Concussion Law requires that athletic organizations provide information to the athletes and their families, and ensures that coaches are trained in the recognitions of concussions. It also requires that whenever an athlete is suspected of having a concussion that he or she must be removed from participation immediately and not be allowed to return until a physician has cleared them, and a Concussion Information Form be signed by the student and a parent. Evaluation of a concussion consists mainly of a history of how the injury occurred and a physical and cognitive examination. The most important elements of the examination are evaluation of memory and balance.

Memory function is determined by the ability to correctly answer questions related to the activity they have been participating in. Balance is determined by a series of physical tests of motor skills. A CT or MRI scan of the brain is not routinely indicated unless there is a specific medical indication for the test. The primary treatment for a concussion is rest. Just like when a muscle has been injured and must be rested in order to heal, the brain also must be rested in order to heal properly. The recovery time for a concussion is extremely variable, but generally will take 7-10 days. Recovery is a specific supervised program of return to normal activity. Activity is gradually increased from complete physical and mental rest on the first day after the injury. This means no physical activity, TV, computer time, video games, school, or any stressful activity. After the first day of recovery, gradual, stepwise increase in activity is allowed each day as long as there is no return of any symptoms of a concussion. The decision of return to play may be difficult, but the long-term mental and physical health of the athlete is always the primary focus in making this decision. Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys college sports with his wife Cathy who is an attorney.

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It’s that time of year! Both students and parents can probably fit into one of two categories as we prepare to go back to school— either dread or mega excitement! Montgomery Public School staff members are diligently preparing to welcome students and parents to an amazing new year. As you ready your children to return to the classroom, whether they are starting kindergarten or moving into their senior year, there are a few things you can do to help start the year off right. Establish a Routine: School begins on August 11. A few days before, get back into the school year routine. Set an age appropriate bedtime and clear expectations about times for homework and study. Have a set time to read to your younger children and for your older children to read on their own or to you.

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

Look at the School Year: Go to www.mps.k12.al.us, click on the School Calendar item at the top of the page. The calendar provides holidays, report card dates and other useful information. Establish Goals for the Coming Year: What are your expectations for the year? Are there academic goals you want to set, additional reading or math practice time? Is it time for your child to begin researching colleges or technical schools and scholarships? Ensure your conversation with your child not only covers your expectations, but how you will support them in their efforts. Register for the Information Now Parent Portal: Every school in the MPS system uses an online system called INOW. With a password you can get from your child’s school, you can access student grades, attendance and discipline records, and even the homework from his teacher’s lesson plan via the Internet. There is no cost. Just bring your photo ID to the school and sign up. Use the information to follow your child’s progress.

Communicate with Your Child’s Teachers: Teachers and parents are partners in education. It is important that you communicate with teachers anytime you have a question about your child’s progress. Teachers have email addresses or you can leave 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. While some parents are looking forward to the start of school, and others may dread it, all parents should realize that parents are the key to ensuring student success in school. A little preparation and persistence can make a big difference in your child’s achievement levels. Ready, set, go back with confidence in your children, the teachers, and in your own ability to make this a great year! 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

STJ Announces 2014-15 Cheerleading Squads Saint James School’s 2014-15 Cheer squads were named on March 21. The three squads, representing the three different levels of upper school competitive play are: Varsity Cheerleaders--Sadie Argo, Lauren Attwood, Sally Brown, Emma Donaldson, Dimiah Epps, Lindsey Holcombe, Taylor Holman, Emma Moody, Lauren Parish, Rachel Rampy and Hannah White; JV Cheerleaders--Mya Averette, Abbey Engles, Claudia Hubbard, Grace Kirkland, Hannah Mathis-Ray, Katie McIntyre, Lauren Millo, Aaliyah Sims and Alexa Wimpee; and Middle School Cheerleaders--Emilee Arrington, Bryson Belich, Shelby Craft, Lucy Edwards, Lauren Harrison, Hannah Keene, Jordan King, Virginia Morris, Faith Morris, Sarah Rice, Katie Leigh Smith and Emma Williams.

ASU’s Early Childhood Center Summer Technology Fun

Tracy Williams taught the third- through fifth-graders spending their summer at the Zelia Stephens Early Childhood Center at Alabama State University how to use a digital camera and the kids took pictures of each other. Then Williams read a book to them, and the students drew and painted their favorite part of the story on the computer. Montgomery Parents I August 2014

Catholic Celebrates Class of 2014

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s 139th Commencement Exercises took place in an outdoor ceremony on the grounds of the Athletic Complex at the Vaughn Road Campus. Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi, Superintendent of Education Gwen Byrd, Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar, and High School Principal Chad Barwick were joined by Monsignor Charles Troncale, Father Patrick Driscoll ‘84, Father Pat Arensberg, Deacon Jim Labadie, Father Linn Harbour and Father Alex Valladares as the special guests of the class. Salutatorian Andrea Hayes and valedictorian Madeleine O’Mara addressed their fellow graduates, special guests, family and friends. The class of 2014 sang the Montgomery Catholic Alma Mater “Catholic, Our Refuge” by Christina Banks Barrera and Alex Johnson before heading to the endzone to salute the school one final time. Members of the junior and sophomore class hosted the graduates and their families at a reception in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center following the ceremony. The Class of 2014 graduates include: Somlee Baek, Ashley Lynn Barranco*, Kyle James Berher, Tara Lynn Bourke*, Chloe Michaela Campbell, Alexander Thomas Castanza, Mackenzie Fleming Colvin, Ann Marie Dean*, Coleman Randy Dixon*, Yakira Michelle Drayton, Parker Russell Drummond, Mallory St. Clair Ellis*, Michael Duane Ester, Brett Franklin Foxworth*, David Yost Fulton, Casey Alan Gurlaskie, Rolanda Danielle Harrison, Andrea Rebeca Hayes*, John Christopher Haynes*, Martha Ryan Hill, Joshua Lee Johnson, Jr., Gyeongmin Kang, Mi Gyn Kim*, Samantha Charles Kocan*, Kaleb Austen Libby, Daniel Joseph LoBello*, Jonathan Lozano, Dylan Thomas Martin, Monica Christine McCann, Anna Aden McCracken, Patrick Laun McGinn, Jr., Samuel James McLaughlin, Alexandra Elaine Micher*, Anna Marie Mills*, Michael Richard Moussalli*, Geoffrey Andrew Myers, Nicholas James Niel, Ryan Christopher Norris*, Sydney Erin O’Connor, Madeleine Marie O’Mara*, Saraelizabeth Nunan Parker*, De’Jamonte Alexander Pierce, Guillermo Auturo Ravelo*, Miles Xavier Rice, Ivan Rodriguez, Jr., Abigail Frances Rohde*, Clayton Patrick Ronan, Sang Won Seo, Mason Wayne Shell, James Thomas Sherman*, Jared Everett Steele, Charles Edward Stewart, Hadley Elizabeth Taylor, Anthony Reshad Thomas, Kristina Margaret Vanella, Howard Raymond Vaughan, III*, Chase Hunter Williams and Kirstin Janel Wood*. *denotes membership in the National Honor Society

ACA Graduate Named National Merit Finalist

Recent Alabama Christian Academy graduate Mitch Moody was named a winner in the National Merit Scholarship competition. He will attend Auburn University in the fall. 16

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Montgomery County Schools

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Quiet on the Set!

Coming this fall! STJtv, an educational, entertaining and encouraging broadcast for Saint James School’s Leu Elementary students, put together by the STJtv production staff! The brainchild of elementary instructor Zach Beard, the 22 fourth- and fifth-graders on the production staff were selected after applying and submitting try-out videos. STJtv will air every Friday morning, beginning with the 2014-15 term. The production team will script, film and edit all news segments, skits, interviews, commercials and special features. Keep up and be a part of STJtv by following the team’s blog at stjtvblog.blogspot.com where polls, viewer suggestions, bloopers, and archived episodes will be posted.

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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ECA Inducts New National Jr. Honor Society Members

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, the new members recited the Honor Society’s pledge. The new members are: Corryne Blanks, Ethan Britt, Ronald Holland, Mathew Johnson, Brandon Martin, Justin McGowan, Mia Navidad, Ellejae Reynolds, Briuana Thompson, Gracie Thompson, Hannah Tolbert, Kimberly Thomas, Kobe Bunting, Ashlyn Strahan and Makenzie Whatley. The new members were welcomed by the current members which include: Chloe Britt, Savannah Clemens, Mary Loughridge, Julie Nguyen, James Paterson, Tryton Taylor, Erin Horton, Brittney Johnson, Lauren Stehl and Chris Taylor.

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McAlpines Honored by Catholic for Service

Gaylon and Mary McAlpine were honored by Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School on May 5, as the 2014 Charlie Harbin Distinguished Service Award winners for their service to the school. The Charlie Harbin Distinguished Service Award was established by the Harbin family and is awarded by the school to recognize those selfless individuals who have significantly served Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School and exemplified its values in their lives. Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar presented the McAlpines with an engraved clock, kicking off the 2014 Montgomery Catholic High School Campus Academic Awards. With seven years of dedication and service to Catholic, Gaylon and Mary have spent countless hours in lifting the school community up. The McAlpines have given to Montgomery Catholic over the years in numerous ways, always with dedication. Whether it was serving as a member or president of the Boosters Club, heading the Rodeo Volunteer team, being a member and president of the High School Advisory Council, or serving on the Advisory Board, the school could always count on them. The McAlpines joined Montgomery Catholic in 2005 and immediately volunteered to be room parents and team parents for a variety of athletic teams and did so for years, drove on countless field trips, and helped with field day, served on the High School Parent-Teacher Council (PTC), became members of several Search, Selection and Strategic Committees, acted as the football & basketball statistician and worked numerous campus clean-up days. Retired from the Army, the McAlpines are members of Holy Spirit parish and parents of two Montgomery Catholic alumni, Cecily ‘08 and Jacob ‘12. Their grandson will continue the Montgomery Catholic tradition by joining the Class of 2028 when he starts K4 at Montgomery Catholic’s Holy Spirit campus in the fall.

Academy Calculus Students Make Perfect Scores

For the second year in a row, every student enrolled in Cindy Ackerman’s Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus classes at The Montgomery Academy made the maximum score of a five on the National AP Calculus AB and BC exams administered in May by the College Board. Of the 16 students scoring fives, 13 were enrolled in Calculus AB and three students were enrolled in Calculus BC. Calculus AB consists of a full academic year of work comparable to the Calculus I course in colleges and universities, while Calculus BC is comparable to college-level Calculus II. Nationwide, out of more than 280,000 students who took the Calculus AB exam, only 24.3% scored a five. Administered through College Board, AP is a rigorous academic program built on the commitment, passion and hard work of students and educators from secondary schools and higher education. Students in Calculus AB were John Ahn, Garrett Barnes, Michael Choi, Justin Freeman, William Haynes, Ann Hester, Guy Hood, Victoria Kim, Alan Jeon, Jacqueline Lee, Sarah Paige Massey, Jeong Shin, and Rachel Warwick. Students taking Calculus BC were Gaun Lee, Hyun Shin and Julie Yoon.

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Montgomery County Schools

STJ Alum Selected UA Drum Major

Catholic Student Chosen To Play ‘Taps’ for Ceremony

Savannah Smith (STJ Class of 2012) has been selected one of the University of Alabama Million Dollar Band (MDB) Drum Majors for 2014-15. Finalists auditioned on April 19 at “A Day” by conducting the MDB. Smith, the daughter of Susan and Robert Smith, is a sophomore music education major at Alabama. While at Saint James, she was a National Merit Finalist and played varsity softball and basketball. Performing in front of millions of fans each year, the Million Dollar Band has been a Crimson Tide tradition for 100 years. Saturdays at the Capstone would not be the same without the excitement provided by the 400 members of the Million Dollar Band, which is one of the most respected university marching bands in the country. Members of the Million Dollar Band are majors in almost every school and department within the University and the Million Dollar Band is easily the largest student organization on campus. In addition to winning the Sudler Award in 2003, which designates the “National Champion” of collegiate marching bands, the Million Dollar Band has been invited to perform exhibitions all over the country. The band traveled to Atlanta in October of 2007 to perform exhibition at the Bands of America Regional Championships.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School seventh-grade student Ricky Treloar was honored to play “TAPS” on Memorial Day for the Vietnam Veterans Ceremony held at Greenwood Cemetery. Treloar has been playing the trumpet since the sixth grade. He asked his mother to help him learn to play “TAPS” and Montgomery Catholic band director Alex Johnson recommended Treloar to play at the Vietnam Veterans Ceremony held on Veteran’s Day in November. “Ricky feels that it is a real honor to be asked to play for such an important occasion, and he is quite humbled by the experience,” said his mother Teresa. “It was very emotional when they called out the names of the soldiers who didn’t return from Vietnam (50 years ago) and family members came up to receive commemorative coins with their loved ones’ name on it.” Treloar received a coin of appreciation from Major General Perry Smith, Alabama Army and Air National Guard, for being a part of the ceremony. Shown, Dimitri Polizos, Alabama State House District 74, with Ricky Treloar and his sister Amy at the ceremony.

Knowledge is profitable because wisdom gives life to those who possess it.

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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.

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Eastwood Hosts Heart for Homeschooling Conference

Hosted by Eastwood Presbyterian Church, the Heart for Homeschooling Conference will be held Saturday, August 16, from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. The conference will consist of three speakers and a four-person Q&A panel. Speakers will teach on: “Fighting Against Legalism and Treasuring Your Child”; “Curriculum: How to Choose It, How To Use It”; and “Being Part of a Homeschooling Community.” The panel will answer several questions, all having to do with the details of what a homeschooling mom’s day is like. The speakers and panelists are all homeschooling moms; some are still homeschooling younger and older children, others are “retired.” A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Fun door prizes throughout the conference. Large book/curriculum table. A room will also be available for moms to bring their own gently used curriculum to sell. Booths with representatives from local homeschooling co-ops and groups, as well as local cover schools. Cost: $15/person or $25/couple if you register by August 14 @ 11:30 p.m.; otherwise tickets are $20/person. To register and for more info, visit HeartForHomeschooling.com.

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Teen Scientists Spend Summer at AUM

Five of the River Region’s brightest high school students spent the month of June as paid research assistants in the AUM School of Sciences through its new Secondary Student Research Program for rising high school juniors and seniors. Participants were mentored by AUM science faculty members and learned the basics of scholarly research, establishing the appropriate contexts for their investigations, and were trained in laboratory and/or field research. The program culminated with a research poster presentation on June 27. The 2014 SSRP participants included: Jayme Williams from Jefferson Davis High School, mentored by Dr. Stacy Parenteau; Hydenia Boswell from Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School, mentored by Dr. Pete Haddix; Joanna Schmidt from Alabama School of Mathematics and Science, mentored by Dr. Rolando Carol; Emily Ryan from Wetumpka High School, mentored by Dr. John Aho; and Ikenna Okeke from Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School, mentored by Dr. Tim Kroft. The program was coordinated by Dr. Haddix, associate professor of biology, who said the university hopes to expand the program to accommodate more participants in 2015. Learn more at http:// www.sciences.aum.edu/secondary-student-research-program. 21

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Montgomery County Schools

Summer Class Teaches MA Students About Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Rising seniors at The Montgomery Academy recently concluded Philanthropy 101, a summer course that provides an in-depth study of charitable and non-profit organizations in our community. Led by Academy faculty Denise Wentworth and Mandy Poundstone, the class was created to honor the life of the late William J. Samford, Jr., and is made possible through funding from The W. James Samford, Jr. Foundation. Students selected to take part in the course were: Tomi Adediji, Noah Blondheim, Logan Doctson, Gretchen Lee, Tucker Little, Sallie Johnson, Jimmy Massey, Will Sahlie, Patrick Thackston and Ken Ward. The course teaches students about nonprofit organizations by hosting representatives from local groups who give detailed presentations on the day-to-day workings of their organization and how their organization helps those in need. Students also spend a portion of each day “in the field,” helping the local organizations directly by volunteering more than 40 hours of their time. Through this, students are able to question their ability to make a difference and learn various ways to give. In addition to reading The Ultimate Gift and A Generous Life: W. James Samford, Jr. to prepare for the course, students also read and discussed selected essays about philanthropy, the non-profit sector, and giving. Students were also given information on 501(c)(3) designation, evaluation of a nonprofit’s 990 reports, and grant writing. In the class, participants researched nonprofits using guidestar.com, charitynavigator.com, and propublica.org. A luncheon was held at the end of the course where students gave presentations about the mission and financial structure of their chosen charity. As part of the program, the foundation gives each student a stipend to be donated to their selected charity. At the luncheon, representatives from each charity were on hand to accept the donation from the students. The luncheon concluded with a moving speech from Lucinda Cannon, sister of William Samford. In her remarks, Cannon shared about her personal commitment to philanthropy. Among the organizations detailed and visited throughout the class were: the Adams Family Foundation, Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Brantwood Children’s Home, Camp ASCCA, Child Protect, Children’s Hospital of Alabama, Community of Hope, Family Sunshine Center/Exodus Community, Father Purcell Memorial Children’s Center, Feeding the Multitudes Ministry, Habitat for Humanity, Huntingdon College, Mary Ellen’s Hearth at Nellie Burge, Montgomery Area Food Bank, Montgomery Area Council of Aging (MACOA), Montgomery Area Nontraditional Equestrian (MANE), One Church Mission, One Place Family Justice Center, Rosa Parks Museum, Salvation Army, and Therapy Dogs on Call. Seated from left are: Sallie Johnson, Gretchen Lee, Logan Doctson and Lucinda Cannon. Standing from left are: Denise Wentworth, Tucker Little, Will Sahlie, Patrick Thackston, Noah Blondheim, Tomi Adediji, Ken Ward, Jimmy Massey, Race Cannon and Mandy Poundstone.

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ACA Students Participate In Presidential Leadership

Six Alabama Christian Academy students had the opportunity to participate in the Presidential Leadership Institute at York College in York, Nebraska. Emma Lane Benson, Devin Gilliam, Haley Hackett, Blake Mitchell, Caroline Rives and Rachel Treubig were part of the national innovative program for 1012th grade students hosted by York College and Strata Leadership. These students were chosen based on their high potential and leadership skills to have the opportunity to interact with nationally recognized leaders and to participate in team-building experiences in order to teach them how to become leaders and agents of positive change in their schools. During the six-day program, these ACA students not only took part in experiences at York College, but also visited the Nebraska State Capitol and met with Governor Dave Heineman and visited with Nebraska Speaker of the Unicameral and former York Mayor Greg Adams. The program also included time spent touring the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Museum and Library in Abilene, Kansas. Students interacted with and learned from Mary Eisenhower (granddaughter of President Eisenhower) and Tim McNeese, York College history professor. From left are ACA students Devin Gilliam, Rachel Treubig, Emma Lane Benson, Caroline Rives, Haley Hackett and Blake Mitchell outside the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Museum and Library with the former Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s granddaughter, Mary Eisenhower.

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Montgomery County Schools

Catholic’s Coach Parker Named All-Metro Coach

UA Defensive Coordinator Visits STJ Campus

Guess who came to campus? The University of Alabama’s defensive coordinator Kirby Smart paid a spring recruiting visit to Saint James School on April 25. As part of his trip to Trojan Town, Smart paid a visit to Head of School Melba Richardson.

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

Montgomery Catholic’s Brad Parker, shown below, has been named 2014 AllMetro Baseball 1A-4A Coach of the Year by the Montgomery Advertiser. Coach Parker, a graduate of the Montgomery Catholic Class of 2004, has been the Knights’ Varsity Baseball Coach for three years. With a career record of 47-42, Parker’s Knights were 20-8 on the season and Area Champions for the second consecutive year. He began his coaching career in 2006 and returned in 2010 as an assistant coach for the Varsity Knights and Head Coach of the JV team. Parker took over the Varsity program in 2011. He is a 2010 graduate of the University of Alabama with a degree in kinesiology. “We have a lot to build on, our core team is strong, all of our pitchers will be back, we have good JV team members moving up and strong leadership from our seniors,” Parker said of the upcoming season. “Moving into a tougher area this year, I know we are up for the challenge.” Also named to the All-Metro Baseball team were rising seniors pitcher Jake Hulcher and in-fielder Bryan Rodopoulos. Rising seniors Reese Smith and Jared Steele were named as Honorable Mentions. Senior softball players pitcher Sydney O’Connor and in-fielder Kirstin Wood were named to the All-Metro 1A-4A Softball team and rising sophomore Ansley Taylor, senior Hadley Taylor and rising freshman Aleigha Walden were named as Honorable Mentions.

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Catholic Students Elected to Leadership Positions

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Fire Sergeant Visits Lighthouse Students

Montgomery Fire Department Sgt. Smith visited the summer program at Lighthouse Christian Academy. The students had fun learning about fire safety.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School had an exciting year participating in the YMCA Youth Legislature conference held at the Alabama State House. The program allows more than 500 high school students to take over state government for three days. Participants are required to write a bill on a topic of their choice and take it through the legislative process. Exciting elections and debate take place as students learn about state government and parliamentary procedure. This year Montgomery Catholic’s Mary McLaughlin, a junior, served as the Assistant Secretary of State where she learned the ins and outs of the office. McLaughlin was elected to serve as the 2015 Secretary of State where she will assist the Youth Governor with the running of the conference. Brian Anderson served as the First Year Floor Leader at the conference. After a strong campaign, Anderson was elected to serve as the First Year Presiding Officer in 2015 where he will govern the debate of the First Year Chamber. In addition, Anderson’s bill was just one of a few signed into law at the conference. Both Anderson and Cheyenne Hayes were recognized as Outstanding Delegates for the First Year Chamber, while Elizabeth Overton and Rebecca White were chosen to participate in this year’s YMCA Conference on National Affairs in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Overton represented Montgomery Catholic at the conference June 28-July 3. The following students also served in an officer, cabinet or media position at this 2014 YMCA Youth Legislature conference: Alex Castanza, James Sadie, Madison Bednarz, Casey Lyerly and Allie Micher. Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Youth Legislature sponsors are high school history teachers Stephanie Nelson and Matthew Monson.

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Montgomery County Schools

Catholic Senior Attends AU Summer Science Institute

STJ Band Director Leads State Music Educators

Recommended by Montgomery Catholic lead math teacher Dr. Joe Profio, incoming senior Ann Faulkner was chosen to participate in Auburn Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summer Science Institute. Students invited to participate in the program were partnered with experienced Auburn University math and science research faculty to explore more advanced topics than typically studied in high school. Faulkner was one of only sixteen students chosen to attend the weeklong program. With sessions daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., the days were packed with activities. Faulkner and her peers spent their time in Auburn doing various things such as hunting for snakes and spiders, learning about quantum mechanics and relativity, and bioluminescence, replicating the chemical reaction that makes fireflies light up, producing esters that smell like bananas, extracting DNA from their cheek cells and putting it into a necklace, exploring discrete mathematics, seeing the plasma generator, learning about computational chemistry, culturing bacteria from belly buttons, and watching liquid nitrogen and thermite demonstrations. Faulkner is shown at left working on a lab project with fellow attendee Isabel Blancett.

Saint James School band director Susan Smith was recently elected Alabama Music Educators Association president-elect. She will serve two years as president-elect, two years as president and two years past president. AMEA is the umbrella organization for all music education in Alabama. The Alabama Music Educators Association federated state affiliate of NAfME, the National Association for Music Education, promotes the advancement of music education through professional development, curricular support and advocacy. Smith has led the Saint James School band to national acclaim on multiple occasions through the Super Regional and National Bands of America competitions. Each summer Smith will travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in the NAfME National Assembly joining state leadership teams to discuss the path of music education nationally. On June 27, state MEAs delegations, collegiates from all across the country, and representatives of The Music Education Policy Roundtable, visited Capitol Hill to advocate for increased access to music education in schools, during NAfME Hill Day 2014.

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ECA Inducts High School Students Into the 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. The new members are: Joslyn Berg, Devin Byrts, Jordan Cartee, Michael Collins, Devorne Davis, Iverson Hopson, Chelsea Martin, Kylei Strahan, Victoria Temple, Emily Washington, Jaylen Williams, Carlisha Allen, Taylor Bethea, Trey Bunting, Rebecca Johnson, Alexis Jones, Taylor Jones, Terra Pierce, David Davis, Mary Beth Peters and Jack Temple. The new members were welcomed by the current members which include: Rachel Baxley, Darrius Brinson, Jasmine Brown, Courtney Covington, Madolyn Mayberry, Taylor McNeil, Tia McNeil, Quantrice Meadows, Gabriel Moorer, Breonna Walker, Da’Qunaika Smith, Angela Walker, Richard Whitehead, Allison Berg, Isabella Coleman, Crystal Dumas, Lindsey Hughes, Erica Marable and Angelica White.

Doss Named as Catholic’s Varsity Volleyball Coach

Victoria Doss has been named the new varsity volleyball coach at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. “I am tremendously excited for the opportunity to take the MCPS volleyball team to new heights! I’m thankful that Daniel Veres and the administration have faith in me to keep the program’s momentum rolling,” she said. Doss was born in Sacramento,California, and raised in the small town of Odenville, Ala. She played volleyball at St. Clair County High School as a libero and an outside hitter along with playing for the Team Sting Volleyball Club as a defensive specialist. Doss received her BA in biology from Huntingdon College in 2013. She played volleyball for the Hawks for four years as a defensive specialist and setter, and coached the Team Sting Volleyball Club for two years. “We are very pleased to add Coach Doss to our group of coaches here at Montgomery Catholic. She brings a fresh, new perspective to our volleyball program, and we look forward to helping her continue our elevation of the program as a whole,” said Athletic Director Daniel Veres. Doss married Henry Doss in May 2014 and she has been assisting her husband in starting a church in Montgomery while actively pursuing a teaching career. Her most recent position was teaching Spanish at Montessori Academy in Montgomery. 27

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Catholic Chooses Coach Turner Award Winners

Jessie Clark and Parker Dennis were selected for the Coach Tim Turner Memorial Award for excellence in Middle School athletics at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. The award is selected by the Montgomery Catholic Athletic Booster Club and is given to a male and female eighth grade student for excellence in athletics, sportsmanship, leadership, and academics. Mr. Charlie Anderson presented the award after the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Eighth Grade Completion Mass on May 22 at the Church of the Holy Spirit on Vaughn Road. Clark played middle school volleyball, middle school and varsity basketball and varsity softball for Montgomery Catholic. Dennis played middle school football and basketball for the Knights. Both were named Most Athletic at the Montgomery Catholic Middle School campus. The award is named in honor of the late Coach Tim Turner who valiantly coached several MCPS Middle School sports teams while bravely battling a terminal illness. (Photos courtesy of The Studio at Eastchase, Keith Hildabrand)

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Join us twice a month for nature-infused programming that will complement your homeschool curriculum. Session times are from 2-4 p.m., on first and third Wednesdays of each month, beginning August 6 and ending November 19. ANC’s Junior Naturalist Program will feature this fall: Fundamentals of Field Biology—collect data with a field notebook and observe seasonal population changes; Ethnobotany Basics—learn to identify edible and medicinal plants and their relationship with the environment; and ID Me!— use field guides and identification books to discover more about nature’s flora and fauna. “Learn and Earn” badges will be offered for all ages. Parental participation is strongly encouraged! These two-hour sessions will provide time for families to learn together. Age-appropriate focus groups will also provide children with an enhanced learning experience. Cost for all eight sessions is $40. Contact Rebecca Bearden at rbearden@alabamawildlife.org for more information.

Pink & Pearls for Girls Celebrates Year’s End

Pink and Pearls for Girls celebrated the end of the school year with a lot of grilled hotdogs, popsicles and water balloons. The girls invited their families to enjoy the water slides, food, and games. Afterward, the girls chatted about their most memorable moments during the school year. If you would like to become a member, please call Grace Harvey at 561-5091.

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The ACT has recently announced the addition of new scores and indicators that will “describe student performance and predicted readiness levels in categories such as STEM, career readiness, English language arts and text complexity, giving students a greater and more specific understanding of both their preparation for success after high school and how to better meet their goals.” Christine Brown, executive director of College Admissions and K12 programs, said, “Adding dimension to the ACT score adds context without changing content both of which are great for students. The test isn’t really changing, which is a good thing for students who are looking for a familiar test. By the same token, the new scores will help students better relate their ACT performance to real world potential. “A key reason students find the ACT attractive is that it’s always been more aligned to high school curriculum. The SAT is moving in that direction, but for most students, the ACT looks more like what they learn in schools. The new scores give students an added lens on how their performance in Math, Science, Reading and Writing applies more broadly.”

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Summer is typically a wonderful time of the year for family fun, vacations, and relaxation. I hope everyone had a chance to enjoy the weather and re-energize because the beginning of a new school year is truly just around the corner. Faculty members and staff throughout Autauga County are already gearing up for another fantastic and successful year! The first day back for students will be August 18th; however, orientations and similar events will take place before the beginning of school at various locations. We will post updates on the Autauga County Schools’ Facebook page and the ACBOE website throughout the summer. Make sure you “LIKE” us on Facebook and updates will post to your news feed! We encourage you to also sign up for “Notify Me” on the district website. These tools will help keep you abreast of important district announcements! The schools in our system really excelled in 2013-2014. It was always a difficult, but

fulfilling, task to choose what items to feature in the newsletter each month! I would like to take the opportunity to share some of the last proud moments of the previous school year. • Autaugaville High School graduated 20 students and received $450,000 in scholarships. The class valedictorian was Jasmine Monae Frazier and salutatorian was Verlonda Shana Hopson. • Billingsley High School graduated 31 students and received $616,500 in scholarships. The class valedictorians were Madison Leigh Price, Branwin Randall DuBose, Jade Alexandra Glass, and Payton Louise Wallace. The class salutatorian was Denesha Shermae Drake. • Marbury High School graduated 131 students and received $1,500,000 in scholarships. Class valedictorians were Brook Marie Landry and Blair Alexander Landry. • Prattville High School graduated 434 students and received $5,000,000 in scholarships. The class valedictorian was John Paul Mitchell and salutatorian was Kenneth Wayne Levens. The total amount received in scholarships for students graduating from the Autauga County School System in 2014 was more than $7,566,000! This was an increase from last year of almost one million dollars! Fantastic is the

word that describes this best! A great accomplishment for the students and a momentous occasion for parents! I also have the distinct pleasure of announcing a wonderful opportunity for the World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veterans in Autauga County! Those veterans who did not previously obtain a high school diploma may now apply to receive one from the Autauga County School System. Applying veterans should have an “Honorable” discharge from the military, have entered the service from the state of Alabama, and currently be a resident of Autauga County. Applications can be obtained from the Board of Education Central Office located at 153 West Fourth Street and must be submitted by September 1, 2014, along with their DD 214. Being a part of such an outstanding school system is an honor. I look forward to reporting the many achievements of our students and staff members each month! 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 ator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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Prattville Educators Enjoy Team-building

PJHS Cheerleaders Are Chosen UCA All Americans

Staff members from Prattville High School and Prattville Junior High School joined forces for a Prattville P.O.W.E.R. professional development session in mid-July. The event was held at the Alabama Nature Center. Educators participated in a variety of instructional sessions including team-building, low ropes course, departmental vertical teaming sessions and motivational sessions. The book, Mindset, was discussed to encourage teachers to evaluate if students have a fixed mindset or a growth mindset and how to compensate for each in the educational realm. Dean Argo (ABC Board), Dr. Sheila Austin (dean of education, AUM) and Carl Salle (community member) spoke to all educators around the fire pit to encourage them to rekindle the passion in working with students. Teachers worked together to join forces to work to the advantage of all students they serve.

Five cheerleaders from Prattville Junior High School were chosen as UCA All Americans while attending Cheer Camp with their entire squad in June. They will participate in The Walt Disney World Thanksgiving Day Parade with other UCA All Americans from all over The Southeast. Fundraising is in full swing to help get these girls to Disney. From left are Courtney Wynn, Chloe LeMaster, Hannah Grace McDavid, Mackenzie Cherry and Ashtyn Grace King.

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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PCA Cheerleaders Attend Auburn Cheer Camp

Prattville Jr. High Band Holds Summer Band Camp

The Prattville Christian Academy varsity cheerleaders attended Cheer Camp at Auburn University this summer and brought home several awards. PCA captured the Prestigious Leadership Award, which is voted on by all teams, as well as second place in Extreme Routine, first place in Cheer, and the Overall Game Day Champions award. PCA seniors Lauren Crosby, Ally Davis and Mary Katherine Johnson were chosen as All American. Johnson also received a UCA recommendation, which is an invitation to try out for the UCA Staff. Those who make the team will work for UCA next summer at UCA cheerleading camps.

The Prattville Junior High School Band welcomed new seventh-grade students for their first Band Camp during the summer. Students learned a variety of drills and songs, including a group favorite, â&#x20AC;&#x153;JAWS!â&#x20AC;? Students began learning a new instrument, making new friends, and introducing themselves to music theory. PJHS band director Kenny Hall states this is one of his favorite activities as he watches students fall in love with the art of music. Assistant band director Ashley Swenning said she enjoys watching the students bond as they learn about teamwork and the success of joint work. Several college students and community members also work with beginning band students to teach them how to play their instrument and how to be a part of a larger organization. The event culminated with a band concert on Friday, followed by a pizza party.

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W R Our summer has been filled with a flurry of activity from countless numbers of our educators participating in trainings locally and throughout the state to a major computer overhaul throughout our district. Our major computer overhaul has been described as follows: The old, clunky computers are out! New, smooth and much lighter weight laptops and desk-tops are in! By the time the students arrive, our district will have replaced all of its 3,500 old computers at all county schools. This is remarkable in that this entire process began in late June. Even more exciting is the fact that this computer renaissance features new high tech wireless laptops. Our worn out computers will be recycled and through that recycling process our school system could earn $100,000 to help defer the $1.7 million leasing costs of the new computers which are being paid for primarily through the district general fund, grants and line-of-credit.

Along with new computers, when it comes to personnel, there have been some exciting developments among our administrative team. Long time Holtville High School principal, Dr. Jimmy Hull, has assumed the directorship of Elmore County Technical Center (ECTC), following the retirement of Carl Thomas. Mark McGhee will assist Dr. Hull administratively at ECTC. Tarica Lamar has moved into the lead spot at Holtville High after serving for several years as the school’s assistant principal. Ken Childree will be returning to our district to serve as the new assistant principal. Blair Andress has stepped in as principal of Eclectic Middle School following the retirement of Dane Hawk. Dr. Robbie Slater has moved into the head position at Wetumpka High School following former WHS principal Cindy Veazey’s transition to the central office. Wetumpka Elementary assistant Bonnie Sullivan will be assuming one of the assistant principal positions at WHS as well. Nick Townsend has moved from his assistant principal role at Millbrook Middle to the principal post at Wetumpka Elementary. Veteran administrator, Susanne Goodin, who served the past 10 years as Coosada Elementary’s principal, joined the central office team as the district’s Senior Coordinator for Administrative Services.

Jina Sanders will be assuming Mrs. Goodin’s post. Mrs. Sanders most recently served as principal at Wetumpka Elementary School. Rashawn Blassingame has recently been named to head Alternative Education for the district. Additionally, several schools were the focus of construction/renovation projects during these summer months. Construction crews have been busy working on a new gymnasium at Elmore County High School. The Wetumpka Elementary Cafeteria is undergoing its first renovation in 50 years. Six campuses are benefiting from security upgrades. Traffic congestion, which has become a major issue in our Millbrook school zone, will be relieved thanks to road additions near Millbrook Middle School. Stanhope Elmore High School is the site of major renovation to its Family and Consumer Science classrooms, its secondary gym, and its entrance road. All of the activity during this abbreviated summer has just served to accelerate our excitement for the 2014-2015 school year. It is going to be an awesome year! Jeff Langham is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. Now in his eighth year as the system’s leader, he has a total of 27 years of experience in the field of education. Langham is an active member at Landmark Church in Montgomery. He and his wife, Ginny, a nurse educator, have one daughter, Weldon.

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Wetumpka Graduate Represents Alabama In National Pageant

This past fall, recent graduate Lindsey Gallops was voted Homecoming Queen at Wetumpka High School by her fellow students. The next week, Gallops received an invitation to Alabama’s Homecoming Queen Pageant held in Tuscaloosa in March, where she was the first runnerup. The winner was unable to fulfill her obligations so Gallops was awarded the State Title of Alabama’s Homecoming Queen along with scholarships. This gave Gallops the opportunity to represent her school, city, and state at the National Competition for America’s Homecoming Queen in Memphis, Tenn. The pageant is about much more than beauty, because each girl is required to prepare a video presentation of her community and community activities, a speech on why people should visit her state, an interview with three separate judges on her career goals and school plans. Each participant is requested to bring a souvenir from her state to be given to each of the contestants and judges. Thanks to the City of Wetumpka, Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce, State of Alabama Tourism Department, Alabama Travel Council, Tucker Pecans, Randy Cook, The USS Alabama Staff and the Wetumpka community for helping Gallops prepare for this event.

Elmore County Homeschool Group Holds Open House

The Elmore County Homeschool Organization (ECHO) will hold its annual Open House on Friday, August 8, from 10 a.m.-noon at the Harvest Fields Community Church, located on 4280 Deatsville Hwy. Vendors will be on site from the tri-county area to provide information on classes available in art, music, foreign languages, LEGO clubs and other activities to supplement your homeschooling experience. FREE! No registration necessary! 35

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Accepting Ages 12 mo. through Grade 8

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The Best Balance of Toys and Fun

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Balance affects everything. From the moment babies learn to raise and balance their bobble heads to the day the training wheels come off their first bike, children are living a balancing act as they grow. Balance is important, too. As fine motor skills evolve children learn to balance food on their plate as they walk (in theory). And as their gross coordination improves they flock to the balance beam at the park, and straddle see-saws like pros. The following toys and games take balancing talents to the max with challenges great and small that put their balance skills to the fun test!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Wobble Deck

Suspend

Just as balance demands a meeting of mind and muscle, the Wobble Deck draws from both brain and body as players balance the electronic deck to win. Featuring numbered and colored edges (each associated with musical cues) the Wobble Deck calls out colors, number and sounds. Players are then challenged to shift their weight as directed causing the designated parts of the deck to touch the ground. It’s a bit like Simon Says, using your whole body. It can be played standing or sitting and there are progressive levels of play as kids improve their balance and response time. Ideal for honing reflexes and responses, the Wobble Deck is the balance game that kids can’t put down.

Taking balance to the edge, Suspend is a game that builds suspense with outcomes that change every time it’s played! Melissa & Doug’s trademark simplicity disguises a game with real addictive complexity. Using only one hand, players take turns balancing notched rubber-tipped wires of varying lengths on a tabletop stand, creating a precariously growing sculpture. Hand-eye coordination and strategy come into play as each player tries to get rid of his rods first. Knock another rod off as you add yours to the balance… and it gets added to your pile. Striking the perfect balance between strategic thinking and steady hands, Suspend is best for ages eight and up!

Lemon Unicycle

Super Moose Antler Stacking Game

(Diggin)

(Melissa & Doug)

(Gerriff)

It’s easier than it looks. The Lemon Unicycle is a balance challenge that energetic kids and teens can meet in just a short period of time. With an 18-inch skid-proof mountain bike tire, the sturdy steel fork frame features a larger seat for comfort, support and safety as solo-wheel riders get the hang of unicycling. Tip: Beginners sometimes start alongside a chain link fence on a grassy surface. Portable and easy to store, the brightly colored Lemon Unicycle is the one-wheeled wonder that comes complete with its own huge ‘cool’ factor as it defines the height of balance skills.

(Hape)

Little hands learn the meaning of ‘steady on’ as they navigate balance benchmarks playing the Super Moose Antler Stacking Game. With a collection of colorful antler points and a moose head base, the challenge is to add to the rack without causing an antler avalanche. Supporting concentration, strategy and patience, this game helps kids cultivate a sense of object balance as they build a spreading and glorious rack that any moose would be proud of. Coupled with the sturdy crafting and safe paint finishes Hape is known for, this simple and engaging game is the perfect addition to balance out the toy box.

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

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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When it comes to discussing difficult topics with your kids, your natural inclination may be to try to avoid the job altogether. But remember, your children will pay for your hesitancy or embarrassment with a lack of awareness they will need to make good decisions. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want your child making emotion-fueled, spurof-the-moment choices about alcohol, sex or peer pressure to try and prove something to their friends. You want them to be in the know, be prepared, and know in advance where they stand on crucial decisions before they get caught in a slippery situation. Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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While sweet, innocent naiveté might be a preferable fantasy to parents in the short run, protecting kids too much can cost them as they progress through rites of passage. How soon do your kids need to be ready to make good choices? Earlier than you may think... according to the National Institute On Alcohol Abuse And Alcoholism, 40 percent of adolescents report drinking by eighth grade, and 55 percent report being drunk at least once by 12th grade. Kids who head off to middle school with a solid understanding of how to make good choices about alcohol, sex, and peer pressure, can worry less and thrive more. According to The Mayo Clinic, sex education is a parent’s responsibility. And by reinforcing and supplementing what kids learn in school, parents can set the stage for a lifetime of healthy sexuality. Kids rely on parents to help them make good choices. Eighty percent of teens feel that parents should have a say in whether they drink or not. Be optimistic about the positive impact you can have. Information is power. It is uncommon for tweens to start having consensual sex before the age of twelve, therefore conversations about sex need to start early--likely long before you think your child is considering the option. Ideally, you want to start presenting your child with basic information on alcohol, sex, and peerpressure from a young age. The Mayo Clinic also reports that peer pressure, curiosity, and loneliness can steer teenagers into early sexual activity. Therefore, do not delay. Start talking to your kids about the big three today. Here’s how:

Start Early. Don’t wait until your child is facing challenges to start talking about tough topics. As soon as your child begins to read, arm her with books that tackle important topics. Girls start puberty between the ages of eight and thirteen and boys start puberty between the ages of nine and fifteen. This means if you are going to get a jump on teaching kids about puberty, you will begin around the time they enter Kindergarten. A little bit of information delivered gradually each year will seem much less intimidating, rather than waiting for middle school and dumping a lot of information on kids all at once. Cover The Basics. How well do you understand biology, chemistry, and sociology? When your child hits puberty, he is going to be affected physically, emotionally, and within his peer group. This is especially true if your child is the first or the last in a group of friends to hit puberty. You might need a refresher course before you feel confident holding your own in conversations with your child about challenging topics. When your child starts watching health and wellness videos in school, be sure you watch them, too. You can even watch them together, if you think this will spark 41

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questions and discussion. Check in with your child’s teacher for more information on her plans.

Be Authoritative. Parents who have the best results getting through to teens are authoritative rather than authoritarian, permissive or neglectful. So have thoughtful limits for your kids and express them to your kids frequently. Don’t imagine they will know what you expect unless you tell them. Studies show that parents with a permissive attitude towards drinking, combined with poor communication and unhealthy modeling, lead teens into unhealthy relationships with alcohol. Parents who provide a healthy and consistent balance of discipline and support are more likely to have teens respect their boundaries on drinking and other behaviors. Cover New Angles. Kids grow up, and as they do, you will become aware of important details that you failed to cover. You talked about biological sex, but did you discuss when to have sex? Kids who know their parents discourage sex are more likely to wait. You broached the topic of alcohol, but did you get into the dangers of drugs? You don’t want your child thinking drugs are any less dangerous than alcohol. You talked about peer pressure on the playground, but what about when there is a car involved? Make sure your child will call you rather than get in the car with a drunk driver. The older kids get, the more contexts and social situations they will encounter. Keep reviewing possible scenarios with your kids so they will not be taken off guard. Teach them that it’s not only okay to say no, but that life requires us to say no sometimes in order to make the best choices for ourselves. Keep Circling Back. You are never done discussing delicate topics. For example, 80% of kids will try alcohol in high school but even if your child starts drinking in college or later, keep talking. She needs to know that you are consistently focused on her wellbeing no matter what her age. Late elementary school and middle school are important times to talk about the negative effects of over-indulging in alcohol. By the time kids become teens, they should have an in-depth understanding of the negative effects of alcohol and should know you are willing to talk more any time. Restrict Media Images Of Partying. A 2010 Dartmouth Medical School

study concluded that parents who steers kids clear of R-rated movies helped kids stay strong against peer-pressure to drink alcohol. According to James A. Sargent, M.D., “The research to date suggests that keeping kids from R-rated movies can help keep them from drinking, smoking, and doing a lot of other things that parents don’t want them to do.” Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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In another study conducted the same year, Doctor Sargent concluded that children who watch R-rated movies become more prone to sensation-seeking and risk taking. Make sure your kids are mature enough for what they watch. If you are unsure, watch with them and set clear guidelines.

Create Opportunities For Discussion. Whatever you do, don’t become

so fanatical about your child making good choices that she will want to avoid these topics with you altogether. A relaxed, age-appropriate, multi-media approach can help keep the conversation going without you having to constantly bring up topics yourself. For family movie night, choose a film that sparks discussion or take your child to see a movie in the theatre and then discuss it over dinner afterwards. Studies have shown that parents who are concerned, engaged and speak openly about expectations help their kids make more responsible choices. You want kids to know you care, but you don’t want to drive them nuts. So don’t ban films and media altogether, just try to take an active role.

Encourage Questions. If your kids come to you with questions about alcohol, sex, and peer-pressure, then you know you are doing a good job keeping the doors to good communication open. Thank your child for asking questions. Resist the urge to make jokes or brush off your child’s feelings. Respond to inquiries as thoughtfully as you can. You want to make sure the questions keep coming to you. Cast your vote in every potentially confusing situation. Better yet, turn the table and ask your teen what he thinks is the best choice in a situation. This is a good way to find out if she is listening or tuning you out. Look In The Mirror. Your child is going

to pick up on the way you relate to your own body. Are you constantly on a diet? Typically complaining about weight you want to lose, but not exercising? Do you drink soda, eat junk food, and hit the fast food drive through when you are upset? Do you drink often or excessively on occasion? Kids are imitators. They will do what you do. They will act the way you act. If you say yes to every request for your time and don’t take time to take care of yourself, then your children will not learn to say no, either. When is your job as a choice coach done? Never. The goal for both you and your child is thoughtful responsiveness. Make sure your child has all the information she needs to get to the place where she can make conscious choices and you will sleep better tonight and every night.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

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

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Sales I have always said that bargain shopping can be turned into a fashion work of art. Your closet can be overflowing with clothes that not only fit well, but that also express your unique personality and style. What better way to shop and not feel like you are breaking the bank than to shop sales? We don’t hesitate shopping sales when it comes to buying new cars, groceries, furniture and kids toys. Why not invest in your personal style? Don’t let that fall by the wayside because you don’t feel like investing in yourself or feel your style is not as important. Sales are around every corner when you go shopping these days. We’re officially in the “Sale Season.” A lot of my clients have told me they dread shopping, as well as sale season. They find it stressful and can’t seem to get past that one word... SALE! Anxiety kicks in when they see clothes everywhere and they just can’t decipher what may or may not work for their style. I get it, it’s extremely overwhelming, but the good news is it doesn’t have to be, Ladies. We are fast approaching end of the season sales, and as crazy as it sounds, retailers are going ahead and Montgomery Parents I August 2014

slashing prices and gearing up for fall and winter styles. While shopping sales may be overwhelming at first, it is so worth it in the long run. I have helped save my clients a ton of money on their styles, half of what they would normally spend. Since we were able to save them that amount, we were able to buy more items of clothing to complete their new style. So here are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to shopping sales.

Do’s: Do Make a Plan - Find out when and where the sales will be. Make a list of items you would like to add to your wardrobe. Research your style... this will prepare you for all of that digging around and fighting the crowds. Do Set a Budget - When shopping sales it’s easy to lose track of how much you’re spending “because it’s on sale.” Preparing a list can help you keep your budget intact. Do Try Things On - Make sure you try everything on unless you KNOW that the size is true to size and will fit. Some sale items can’t be returned so ask about the store’s return policy. Do Know Prices - Know what the original retail price of items are because this will help determine if you’re getting a great deal or not. 44

Do Try Something Different - Have you been eyeing a certain trend and just aren’t sure if you can pull it off? Sales are the perfect time to try something new.

Don’ts: Don’t Settle for Less - There’s no need to make quick purchases. I always tell my clients to marinate on it. Don’t Buy Different Pieces - Rule of thumb, don’t buy pieces unless you can think of at least 2-3 different ways of wearing them with what you have hanging in your closet. Don’t Be Super Trendy - If an item is very trendy it may be hard to make wearable for the next season. Think about how or if it can be worn throughout the next season Don’t Squeeze Into It - Sale items don’t mean you should squeeze into them. If it doesn’t fit then move on. You’ll find something else, I’m sure of it. Don’t Buy It Just Because - Just because it’s on sale doesn’t mean you have to buy it. Think it through...it’s all about the fit, trend and your style.

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

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7/24/14 1:23 PM

DTC Strikes Gold at Alabama Sports Festival

Master Anne Docarmo played host to the Taekwondo portion of the Alabama Sports Festival for the third year running; the event was held in the Pelham High School gym June 21. “It has been exciting to see Olympicstyle taekwondo progress in Alabama; this is not a strong state for participation at this level, so for us to grow the Sports Festival every year has been rewarding,” says Docarmo. Each year Master Docarmo has brought a higher level of technology to the event including matted rings, electronic scoreboards, and this year all referees were USAT certified. “My next goal is to certify as many people to USAT certified referee status from within the state as possible for next year’s event.” Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center also congratulates several new Black Belts as a result of their most recent testing in July. New Black belts include: Jenny Baek, Terry Houser, Rebecca Jackson, Terry Jackson, Austin McGraw, Samantha Melton, Shannon Melton, and Frank Nguyen. Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center has been an established full-time martial arts school in Montgomery for more than 10 years, and continues to see growth in their program every year. DTC is a member of USAT with headquarters located at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. All Black belts are certified through the Kukkiwon, the headquarters of the World Taekwondo Federation, located in Seoul, Korea. DTC will host its annual Capital City JAM Tournament September 27; please contact us at 220-5835 with questions.

Pink & Pearls for Girls Hold Career & Community Day

Pink and Pearls for Girls Inc. will host its annual Career and Community Day Saturday, September 27, at the Chisholm Community Center. Pink and Pearls for Girls Inc. is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide educational and family-oriented activities and events for its members and the community. This year’s theme of Career and Community Day is “Runway of Dreams.” Local businesses, organizations and vendors are invited to help celebrate our youth’s dreams and goals by setting up a table with any type of literature, donations, giveaways, or arts and craft/activity. Tables will be provided for set-up. The event will start promptly at 9 a.m. but vendors may come at 8 a.m. to set up. This event will end promptly at 11 a.m. At 10:30 a.m., youth will get a chance to walk the “Runway of Dreams” by modeling career attire of what they would like to be or have a career in. If you are able to participate, please contact Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091. Chisholm Community Center is located at 545 E. Vandiver Blvd. in Montgomery.

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Sunday Morning Worship Services 8:45 & 11 am Chapel Service & Holy Communion Wednesdays | 5:30 pm View live stream of Sunday services at www.fumcmontgomery.org/livestream Dr. R. Lawson Bryan | Senior Minister

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

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Join us in September for our 185th Anniversary celebration! Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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Consider Adopting From Alabama’s Foster Care System There are a lot of ways to become a parent today. In Alabama, there are around 250 children in the foster care system waiting for loving and caring forever families. Many have never felt the warmth and joy that comes from a permanent family. Most have been placed in agency custody due to parental neglect or physical abuse. The good news is the lives of these children can be brightened forever by just one person. Could that be you?

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FALL/WINTER‘14 Sale dates Saturday, Sept. 6 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 8/23-8/25 & 8/30)

In Montgomery and surrounding areas alone, the Alabama Pre and Post Adoption Connections program of Children’s Aid Society has assisted 24 families in adopting a total of 38 children from the foster care system. This “assistance” involved family recruitment, adoption preparation classes, home studies, help in matching families with waiting children, and then supporting the families throughout their adoption journey. APAC partners with the Alabama Department of Human Resources to help find forever families for three types of children in the foster care system. These three categories include 1) Children 8 years and older, 2) Children in sibling groups of 3 or more, and 3) Children with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities as defined by the State of Alabama DHR. Because of this partnership, APAC’s Pre Adoption Services program is able to provide assistance free of charge to families interested in adopting. The highest cost a family may incur is up to $1000 in court fees; however, there is a stipend that families can potentially receive to help with these costs. To see some of the children who are waiting for families you can visit our partner, Heart Gallery of Alabama, at www.heartgalleryalabama.com. If you or someone you know would be interested in learning more about the adoption process is your area, please call 1-866-4-ALKIDS or email Caitlin Licata at clicata@ childrensaid.org.

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 462-2591 2260 Eastern Blvd, Next Door to Harbor Freight Tools

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Raising engaged students is not only

1. Share to prepare. Tell your child what you enjoyed about school. If your spouse enjoyed school, encourage him to share stories, too. If you had a difficult time in school, share those stories with someone who is not your child. Talk to another adult about the ways you struggled, and how those struggles might color your expectations of what school will be like for your child. Get your fears and biases about school off your chest and let them go so you won’t unwittingly pass them on. Remember, your child is not you. That was then, this is now. By confronting and releasing any back-to-school skeletons in your closet, you open the doors to a positive school experience for your child today.

the responsibility of the teachers and the administrators at your school, it’s a job that starts at home with every parent. You may have anxiety, fears, or merely first-day jitters about your child going to school. But if you can muster up your courage and take a onegood-day-at-a-time approach, you will find that raising a child who loves school is easier than you might have imagined. Just follow these four simple guidelines, keep your interactions with your school’s employees constructive and upbeat, and watch the magic that occurs when your child loves learning. Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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2. Step back. Some parents have trouble trusting that a school will care about their child as much as they do. And it’s true--teachers won’t treat your child like a parent would. They will probably expect more. And they will care about your child as educational professionals, who want to challenge your child so she can realize her potential, so let them do their jobs. Smart parents know that school is not just about academics. When your child is in school, she is learning how to be a member of a community. She is learning how to socialize and enjoy playtime. He is learning how to express himself through art, music and physical activity. So take a leap of faith. Remind yourself that the folks who run schools are trained professionals. Trust them with your child’s daily education and well being. Then your child will experience every day as an adventure in learning and growing.

3. Be positive and proactive. Try to find something to like about your school on a regular basis. If you don’t know what to like then you might not be aware enough. Have a working knowledge of the school layout. Introduce yourself to

teachers on open-house days and meet the folks who work in the front office, including the principal. Make sure the teacher knows you are on her team. If you have a miscommunication or misunderstanding with a teacher or administrator, strive to work things out in a calm, pro-active manner. Don’t hang on to negative perceptions or try to create negative consensus with other parents. Confident, secure parents seek solutions not squabbles. Put yourself in the teacher or administrator’s shoes before you pick up the phone or shoot off that email. Remember, the way you would like to be treated is the way to behave, always, no matter how you feel in the heat of the moment.

4. Give without strings. If you cannot spend a lot of time at school, know that your child still benefits from seeing you there, even if it is not as often as you would like. If you like to pitch in, join the PTA or sign up to be a room parent. You will find plenty of opportunities to contribute, but do so without expectations of payoffs for your child based on your involvement. The benefits for your child come when you happily contribute, not when you use your position as an insider to create an ongoing list of how you would

do things differently and better. Remember your role as a helper in the larger scheme of things. Be service-minded, looking for opportunities to match the school’s needs with what you have to offer. Do your best not to criticize parents who are less committed to volunteering than you, unless you wish to be judged right back. Break the school year up into three parts and try to pitch in to help or chaperone at least once each season. Don’t forget to get your spouse involved. And don’t feel guilty about not being a parenting association volunteer. Give money to financially support the programs of the PTA, if you can swing it. Then go to your child’s teacher when looking for ways to contribute in proximity to your child. No matter how you choose to contribute, when you give the way you want to give, you set a great example for your kids. Parents who invest energy cheerfully and proactively in their child’s school stand out in the crowd for all the right reasons, paving the way to success in school for all their children. mp Christina Katz has always loved school and strives to pass this passion on to her daughter. She comes from an extended family of enthusiastic learners, teachers and educators.

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The River Region’s Parenting Resource Guide for After School Activities! Programs in Art, Dance, Gymnastics, Sports and much more...

Art and Music 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. www.Abrakadoodle. com/AL01 Call Susan Parker @ (334) 265.5758 for more information.

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.

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

(334) 279.9976, 1849 Perry Hill Road A Christ based learning environment of instruction in the performing arts. We offer private instruction in specific areas of music. All instructors have degrees in their field of expertise. All courses and lessons offered by the APA are open to anyone desiring to begin or continue music instruction. We offer courses of instruction in Piano, Guitar, Voice, Oboe, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Tuba, Flute, Clarinet and French Horn. Please call or visit us at www.hbcm.net for more information.

Kindermusik of Montgomery

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. Birth to 7 years old. Singing, movement, instruments, and social interaction. Classes begins in August. Now enrolling for fall semester. Call today for registration. Contact Sara Hall at (334) 271.3264.

Carver Elementary School 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.

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Guitar & Music Lessons

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

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

Studio Programs: (334) 244.5700, 1 Museum Drive, Email: DPickens@mmfa.org or call Donna Pickens at 240-4370. Drawing and painting for preschoolers, children and adults. Afternoons

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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 Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s galleries. Instructors: Museum Education staff Time: 10:30 to 11 A.M. Wednesdays: August 13, September 17 Art Start (ages 3 - 5) This series of classes offers a wide assortment of enjoyable parent/child activities. Explore beginning drawing, painting, and sculpture in playful, age â&#x20AC;&#x201C; appropriate classes. Sign up for individual lessons or for the whole series! Instructor: Museum Education Staff Time: 2:30 to 3:15 PM Thursdays: August 14, 28; September 11, 25 Cost: $8 members/$12 non-members for each classes

Children and Youth (ages 6 to 13) 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 staff; Time: 3:45 to 4:45 P.M. Wednesdays: September 17, 24; October 1, 15, 22, 29; November 12, 19; December 3, 10 Cost: $100 members/$160 non-members for the series of 10 classes After School Art II (ages 10 to 13) 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 Mu-

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seum Education staff; Time: 4 to 5 P.M. Thursdays: September 18, 25; October 2, 16, 23, 30; November 13, 20; December 4, 11 Cost: $100 members/$160 nonmembers for the series of 10 classes Family Art Affair (all ages welcome) Sunday, September 21, 2014: 2 to 4 P.M. Bring the entire family to this FREE fun event, and enjoy a jazz combo, art activities in the studios, and wonderful art work in the galleries! Museum exhibition connection: Origins: The First Twenty-Five Years of the MMFA Collection

Montgomery Symphony Youth Orchestra (334) 240.4004. Runs concurrent with the school year. Auditions Saturday, Sept. 6, 2014. Ages 13 and up. Orchestral Instruments. Call Dory Hector at (334) 279.6575 for more information.

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-

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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.

Musical Theatre

Lexi Pippett, (205) 294.0443. Introduction to theatre. Covering: Self Expression and body language, singing and dancing. Offered to ages 5 and up, boys and girls. Will be held every Tuesday night at the Martin Courthouse Theatre, Downtown Prattville from 7-8 p.m. Will be performing at the end of the year Christmas production.

Paint and Clay

(334) 819.4450, 66 Dalraida Rd., Montgomery. We offer after school art classes at participating schools. Please call for list of schools or visit our website at www.paintandclaystudio.com.

Piano Lessons by Shirley Ingram 135 Bell Road, Montgomery, (334) 462.4998

Elementary students, Adults and Homeschoolers. Former Music Teacher with Montgomery Public Schools.

Piano Lessons by Summer Whatley

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(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 Sept. 2. 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 Sept. – Dec. Please visit us at www.pzazzart.com or for more information or call us.

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Dance and Gymnastics

BAMA Lanes

Alabama Dance Theatre

(334) 272.5423, 3020 Atlanta Highway. Youth leagues on Saturdays. Ages 4-21. Free Youth Clinic August 23 at 9 a.m. Pre-registration with free bowling.

BAMA Lanes in Prattville (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.

Brunswick Zone 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.

(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 18th. Company auditions for the Alabama Dance Theatre will be held Sunday, August 17th. Classes will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, home of the Alabama Dance Theatre. Website: www.alabamadancetheatre.com

Armory Athletics Center

1018 Madison Ave., (334) 241.2789. School session begins August 4th and 5th. Ongoing registration. Developmental (Ages 2-5) 45 minute classes: Various afternoon class times Monday through Thursday. 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 11. 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. Please visit the website www.centreforperformingarts.com.

CJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance Factory and The Prattville Ballet

145 S. Court St., Prattville, (334) 361.0554. Fall Registration/ open house every Tuesday in Marbury location and Thursday in Prattville in August 5:30-7:30 p.m. Offering professional instruction in: Classical ballet, jazz, tap, gymnastics, and preschool dance. Beginner to pre professional, we offer gymnastics, Preschool dance, Beginner to pre-professional, we offer reasonable tuition with family discounts and affordable tasteful recital

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costumes. Our instructors have college dance degrees and/or professional experience. Classes are designed to encourage and stimulate the progress of each student’s mental and physical capabilities by teaching the art of dance in a professional environment. Be part of The Grinch this winter! Other performance opportunities available as well. Audition dates TBA. A musical theatre class will be offered this fall for children ages 5 and up that includes vocal training and drama technique. Please visit us at www.c.j.dance.tripod.com or Facebook.

Dance Generation

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 12th & 14th 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.

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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 under Janey’s Academy of Dance.

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Laura’s School of Dance

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 6-8 from 2 pm. until 6 p.m. and August 9th from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. Please call Jenny Moseley for more information.

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, Jazz, Tap, and Gymnastics. Class times vary according to age and level. Fall registration Mondays from 5:30 until 7:30

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in July – August 11. at the Gym facility at 101A Penser Blvd. Open House will August 14 from 4-6:30 p.m. Classes start August 18. Please visit our website at www.lisasdancedimensions.com.

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 every Tuesday starting in July through August 5 from 6 to 7:30. Classes will begin August 18. Tap, Lyrical, Pointe, Ballet, Gymnastics, Baton and Jazz. Call for class times and dates. Ages 3 and up. www.manndancestudio.net

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 – August 11. at the Gym facility at 101A Penser Blvd. Open House will August 12 from 4-6:30 p.m. Classes start August 18. Please visit www.lisasdancedimensions.com.

The Montgomery Ballet

2101 Eastern Blvd, Suite 223 (The Courtyard), call (334) 409.0522 for information on classes. Mr. Patrick Willison and Nicole Miller, Co-Executive 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 11th and the annual School Performance will be May 8th 2015. 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.

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. 2. 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

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection

3370 Harrison Rd., (334) 277.1098. Fall registration on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 until 6:30 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 55

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classes also available on site. Please visit our website at www.tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.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). Please call for times and prices. Family discounts available. Registration on a monthly basis. Parents night out offered. Visit website at www. unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Drama Classes & Public Speaking Alabama Shakespeare Festival 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 6 - December 15 Time: 4:00-6:00 PM Stage Door (Grades 6-8); $200 Fall session: Mondays, October 6 - December 15 Time: 4:00-6:00 PM For Teens: Curtain Call Players; $200 Fall session: Mondays, October 6 - December 10 Time: 7:00-9:00 PM For Adults: Actor’s Workshop; Cost: $200 Fall session: Mondays, October 6 December 15 Time: 7:00-9:00 PM

Horses 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. Please call for information.

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. Call today for more information.

Martial Arts Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center

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 longterm 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.

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Dance Classes

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. Coker’s now also offers Japanese Martial Arts Training and Weaponry. Master Carole Coker, is a certified post-trauma rape counselor, one of the highest ranking female instructors in the Southeast, and has 39 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 our website at www.montgomeryfamilykarate.com.

Alabama Dance Theatre Kitty Seale, Artistic Director

Age 3 to Professional Level

1018 Madison Avenue at the Armory Learning Arts Center

241-2590

Now Accepting Registrations

Fall classes begin Monday, August 18th, 2014

Fleming’s Martial Art Institute

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

Photography by David Robertson, Jr.

Johnson Karate and Fitness Center

(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, Self-Defense, Private Lessons, Fitness Kickboxing, Pilates, and Sport Karate. We offer free trial lessons. Phil. 4:13. Please visit us on Facebook at Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy.

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.

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. Classes starting at $50 a month for one class per week. Many programs available. Free trial class offered. Please visit us at www.nextgenmartialarts.com. 57

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Tiger Park Taekwondo

3125 Bell Road, Montgomery, AL (previously Chungâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Taekwondo) (334) 277.3627 Classes for everyone Ages 3 to adult. 3 weeks of lessons plus uniform for $55.00.

Tiger Rock Martial Arts

(334) 244.1465, 2750 Bell Rd. Classes offered for children ages 4-5 (Tiger Cubs), ages 6-12 (Junior Program) and 13-adult. Please call us for more information regarding class times and schedules.

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 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 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.

Frazer Sonshine Soccer

(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.

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Frazer Upward Basketball

(334) 495.6459, Atlanta Hwy. Program available for girls 4 years through 9th grade and boys 4 years through 9th grade. Registration only during the month of October. Practice begins in December. Games begin in January. Please call for information or visit our website at www.frazerumc.org.

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.

Montgomery YMCA

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 & 5 Fall Season: September/November. Games Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday. 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 August 4. Cheerleading for ages 6-12 (no 7th graders

allowed) Season: September-November. Games on Saturdays. Registration going on now until August 4th. Basketball for ages 4-15. Registration from 1st of September until November 2nd. 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 6-17. 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) 5717605 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 59

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

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 available. 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.

St. James Upward Soccer

(334) 277.3037, 9045 Vaughn Rd. K4 through 4 grade (boys and girls welcome) Cost is $75 until August 3 then $85 until August 10. Practice begins the week of August 25. First game is Saturday, Sept. 6. Please call or visit us at www.sjlife.com and click on the children tab.

Therapeutic Recreation Center

Fredrick Thomas, (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

Scot Patterson, (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, 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, Minisoccer for ages 4-5.

Skating KLynn Skating School

at the Eastdale Mall Ice Rink (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.

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River Skate Montgomery

301 Bibb St., in downtown Montgomery. A skateboard, rollerblade, bike and scooter park. Membership is sold in seasonal passes. Call (334) 240.4017 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. Please call for more information and rates.

Swimming/Scuba Adventure Sports Aquatic Center

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

YMCA Barracuda’s Competitive Swim Team

The YMCA has a year-round competitive swim program based at the East YMCA. Contact Caroline DelCarmine at (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 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.

O’Connor Tennis Center

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.

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 Ascend Tutoring

(334) 239.0652. Ascend Tutoring Services, provides home tutoring in the following cities & towns: Montgomery, Millbrook, and Prattville. We offer: Affordable one-on-one tutoring, Professional dedicated tutors, Comfort of your own home, Use your school curriculum. Please call us or visit www.ascendtutoringservices.com for more information. 61

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R 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.

Huntington Learning Center

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 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/montgomery-central.

Kumon Reading and Math Center

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.

MasterRead

2941-A 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.

Mathnasium

3457 Taylor Road, (334) 356.1570. We specialize in teaching kids math the way that makes sense to them. We provide: Expert tutors, Cus-

tom learning plans and personalized instruction, and Homework help. Please call Monica Virgil at (334) 356.1570 or visit us at www.mathnasium. com/eastmontgomery.

Success Unlimited

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

Sylvan Learning Center

2640 Zelda Rd., (334) 262.0043. Study skills, (courses for credit) writing/grammar, reading, math and SAT/ACT college preparation. Also individualized tutoring. Diagnostic evaluation. Students improve skills, becoming more motivated and gaining in self-confidence. Certified teachers. Please contact us if you know of after school activities not listed, editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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Bradford Health Services ROAD MAP TO ADOLESCENT RECOVERY

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There Is Hope Ahead. 63

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Tonya Speed Hosts Moscow Ballet

Tonya Speedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance Connection will host the Moscow Ballet in October for citywide auditions to be a part of the Great Russian Ballet. Local dancers will have the opportunity to audition for several roles in the performance, which is scheduled for the Tuesday night before Thanksgiving at MPAC. Call 277-1098 for more information.

Family Karate Center News

Students and parents packed up clean, starched uniforms, weapons and sparring gear to take the trip to Georgia July 25-27 for the World Tang Soo Do Championships. Before the Saturday competition began, the Family Karate Center Demo Team led by Chief instructor Master Carole Smith began its Studio Creativity event. Practice paid off for the students and parents as they accepted a beautiful trophy for their presentation! The students ages 2 and up had practiced their forms, weapon defense techniques, and board breaking skills for months just for this weekend where many Tang Soo Do practitioners from around the nation gathered together. After two days of competition, Family Karate Center took home many medals in addition to the Demo Team trophy! A new Family Karate Center Demo Team is forming in August, and you do NOT have to compete or pay extra to be on the team! Some new students here for the Maxwell/ Gunter Officers School will join in September, but places on the team are open every day. Call (334) 2209319 for your free classes and free uniform for all new students. Caydon Olive Tucker Swink Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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Travel Softball Team Wins State Title

The Montgomery American Ponytail All Stars have won the Dixie Youth Softball State title for Alabama. As District 5 champions, the team beat Underwood and Kinston early in the tournament. Thomasville then beat Montgomery American 5 to 3 to put the team in the losers’ bracket. Montgomery American led Enterprise 11 to 0 in the final inning of an elimination game for both, but ended up winning 11 to 5. The championship game pitted Montgomery American against Thomasville again, who had lost to Enterprise to create a three-way tie the day before. After a strong battle, the score was tied 5 to 5 at the end of the sixth inning (end of regulation). The Montgomery American girls held Thomasville in the top of the seventh inning. Katherine O’Connor was hit by a pitch which placed her on 1st. Jordan Galloway was then safe on a bunt. An error by the Thomasville pitcher advanced O’Connor to 3rd and Galloway to second. Natalie Waugh-Magana made a single and when Cat Hall got up to bat, Montgomery American had bases loaded and no outs. Hall stroked a long pop fly to centerfield which was caught, but O’Connor was allowed to tag up and score the winning run. The final score was 6 to 5. Montgomery American will travel to Ponchatoula, Louisiana, on August 1, to play in the Dixie Youth Softball World Series. They team will play Virginia on August 2. Team members are: Romona McLeod, Alanna Aiken, Hope Johnson, Katherine O’Connor, Jordan Galloway, Natalie Waugh-Magana, Cat Hall, Lamari White, Stacee Stubblefield, Macie Wilson, Ellie Streeton and Landon Justice. Coaches are Roman McLeod (manager), Lamar White and Steve Wilson. Both McLeods and Aiken were members of the 2013 Dixie Youth Angel World Series Championship Team. These girls attend many schools around the city including ACA, Saint James, Catholic, Baldwin, Floyd and Johnny Carr. Waugh-Magana and Wilson play high school JV softball at Park Crossing and BrewTech, respectively. 65

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A Page in a Book These Books Are for the Birds Young or old, we all marvel over birds. Birds are one of the few animal groups that call out with song and sound for our attention. Found in almost every environment around the world, birds soar through the sky, plumb depths and nest right under our noses. They brighten our lives with color, song, antics and aerial acrobatics. With their plucky attitudes and posh plumage, our avian friends give wing to our imagination. The following titles feature our feathered friends in situations that will delight, inform and inspire young readers to their own flights of fancy!

Peggy

by Anna Walker (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin) Peggy is a beautiful black hen who’s right at home in the country. She has a cozy house, her own trampoline and pigeon friends to keep her company. But when a big gust of wind plucks her off her trampoline and plunks her down in the big city, it’s up to Peggy to follow clues that might lead her home. Anna Walker’s ink and photo collage illustrations tell most of the story, capturing the bustle and marvels of a busy city with natural colors, highlighted with bright symbols of Peggy’s home. Children will instantly connect with Peggy’s perspective as she is rendered small amidst a much bigger world. With dryly humorous insets that enliven Peggy’s journey, this picture book celebrates both the charm of adventure and the comforts of home.

Aviary Wonders Inc. Spring Catalog and Instruction Manual

by Kate Samworth (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin) Styled along the lines of vintage mail order catalogs, Aviary Wonders Inc. is a visionary company for discerning bird builders that provides everything you need to craft your own avian wonder. From feathers and feet to beaks and bodies, every part of the bird is featured with instructions to guide design and assembly. Samworth’s marvelous artwork is the highlight of this imaginary offering as it subtly educates readers on all the physical aspects of birds that make them unique. It also features quiet references to extinct bird species tucked within its darkly beautiful suggestion that we may one day have to build our own birds. Young birdwatchers will love plucking out the real facts hidden in this artistic feast of fowl. A flight of imagination for all ages, Aviary Wonders Inc. is a first choice for the young birders bookshelf.

Penguin in Peril

by Helen Hancocks (Templar / Candlewick) What’s a penguin to do when he’s on the run from three hungry cats? Kidnapped from the zoo, one puzzled penguin finds his moment to escape. Hiding from his abductors while navigating a strange landscape is challenging, and his future looks black…and white. Seeking natural camouflage on the run, our penguin seeks refuge among nuns, black-tie waiters, and white-collared commuters as he tries to find the zoo. Hancock’s brightly colored mixed media illustrations are punctuated with black and white nods to the penguin’s plumage and her simple text makes it an ideal read-aloud for children. Young readers will delight as they follow one cool-headed penguin and his inept feline followers on a wild ride across the city.

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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AUM Travel Baseball Named District Champs

YMCA Track Team Celebrates Regional Wins

The YMCA of Greater Montgomery track team celebrated several wins at the United States Track & Field Jr. Olympic Region 6 Competition held July 10-13 at Samford University in Birmingham. Those placing first through fifth place in any category will go on to compete at Nationals and Jr. Olympic Trials to be held in Texas the last week in July. Winners were: Amaris Tyynismaa, 1st Place, Broke Record at 10:50.66, 3000 Meter Run, 13-14 year-old Girls Division; Tyynismaa, 1st Place, Broke Record at 4:57.65, 1500 Meter Run, 13-14 year-old Girls Division; Javonda Peagler, 1st Place at 1:03.29, 400 Meter Hurdles, 1718 year-old Women’s Division; Timothy Patterson, 2nd Place at 5:21.24, 1500 Meter Run, 15-16 Year Old Boys Decathlon; Patterson, 1st Place at 58.90, 400 Meter Hurdles, 15-16 Year Old Boys Division; Montgomery YMCA Dream Team, 2nd Place at 30:20.96, 4x4 Relay, 17-18 Year Old Men’s Division; Demetrius Montville, 3rd Place at 24.17, 200 Meter Dash, 13-14 year-old Boy’s Division; and Montville, 2nd Place at 53.85, 400 Meter Dash, 13-14 year-old Boy’s Division. The track program, housed at the Kershaw YMCA of Greater Montgomery, has been in existence for 18 years, and now covers indoor and outdoor track and cross country. For more info, please contact Darryl Woods, YMCA Senior Vice President, at dwoods@ymcamontgomery.org. Shown are YMCA Dream Team Track and Field Club members who competed and medaled at Disney’s National AAU Club Championship Track Meet in Orlando and members who will be going on to compete in the USATF National Junior Olympics in Houston. AAU Club Championship Medalists were: Onderia Whetstone, who placed 6th in girls shot put; Aaron Bowen, who placed 7th in the 3000 meter racewalk; Tyynismaa, who placed 1st in the 1500 and 3000 meter run; and Jalyn Bowen, who placed 6th in the girls high jump-jumping 5’2”. Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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AUM Gold AA went undefeated in Subdistrict and District play and were District 5 champions. In the tournaments, AUM out-scored their opponents 133-24. As District 5 champions, they played in the Dixie Youth State Championship series in Prattville beginning July 5. From left are Coaches Wes Kohring , James Singleton, Houston Markham and Manager Ashley Aaron. Standing from left are Braxton Woodson, Cody Markham, Kellen Kendricks, Christian Carstarphen, JaKyle Sims, Thomas Aaron and Jonah Kohring. Kneeling are Terry Ware, Jayden Phifer, Tre Singleton, Grey Johnson and Justin Rose.

Kohl’s Department Stores Reward Volunteer Efforts Of Local Youth

The Kohl’s Department Stores’ Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program honors nearly 200 deserving volunteers with $1,000 scholarships toward higher education. Laura Grace Henry, 11, shown, from Prattville was chosen from more than 37,000 nominees nationwide for making a positive impact in her community. In 2013, Henry helped design and build an indoor play center for the children at One Place Family Justice, a nonprofit that provides free assistance to domestic violence victims and their children. Laura fundraised nearly $10,000 to build the play center and furnish it with a TV, DVD player, movies and games for the children. “Kohl’s is proud to recognize the 182 regional winners nationwide for their dedication to making their communities a better place to live,” said Bevin Bailis, Kohl’s senior vice president, communications and public relations. “We commend these bright volunteers for being inspiring examples for others as they have made a difference in their own communities and touched the lives of others through their efforts.” Twenty-nine youth from Alabama each received a $50 gift card and recognition certificate from Kohl’s to honor their community service efforts. In addition to Henry, other River Region winners include Dannisha Forbes, 17, from Montgomery; and Kimberlee Sechrist, 17, from Prattville. Winners are chosen based on initiative, leadership, generosity and project benefits and outcome. Each regional-level winner qualifies for one of Kohl’s 10 national scholarships, which will be announced at the end of July. National winners will each receive a total of $10,000 in scholarships, and Kohl’s will donate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization on each national winner’s behalf. In total, Kohl’s will recognize more than 2,300 young volunteers with nearly $400,000 in scholarships and prizes. Since the program began in 2001, Kohl’s has recognized more than 22,000 kids, including the 2014 winners, with more than $4.3 million in scholarships and prizes. The Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program is part of Kohl’s Cares, Kohl’s philanthropic program focused on improving the lives of children. A list of all winners from Alabama is available at www.kohlskids.com. 68

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Agape of Central Alabama Chosen For ‘Changing Oil, Changing Lives’

Agape of Central Alabama has been selected to be a part of All American Auto & Tire’s first “Changing Oil, Changing Lives” event, to be held in Montgomery on Wednesday, August 27. All American Tire & Auto will launch its “Changing Oil, Changing Lives” campaign by donating 100% of one day’s worth of oil changes to Agape. By participating in “Changing Oil, Changing Lives,” All American Tire will be regularly giving back to local charities, choosing a different recipient for each event. Those interested in participating on August 27 can stop by either of All American Auto & Tire’s two locations in Montgomery: 2700 Bell Road and 408 Madison Avenue. Proceeds from oil changes that day will go to Agape of Central Alabama, but monetary donations will also be accepted at the locations. “Changing Oil, Changing Lives” is a non-profit organization dedicated to giving back to communities through local auto shops and tire dealers. Companies participating in the program reflect charitable core values and commitment to their communities.

Family Guidance Center of Alabama Walk/Run 2014

September 13 * The Shoppes at EastChase, Montgomery Scenic 5K and 10K routes. Electronic chip timing system. Race day registration will begin at 6 a.m. Opening ceremony and warm-ups begin at 7 a.m. by the fountain. The event will begin at 7:30. Food, door prizes and free massages will be provided. Free Kids’ Dash. Proceeds benefit the Family Guidance Center of Alabama. Online registration available at http://www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=2130307.

YMCA Introduces New Youth Program

The Cleveland YMCA in Montgomery has introduced a new youth initiative called “Reach and Rise,” a national program that is designed to build a better future for youth through the support of caring adults. “Reach and Rise” is for kids ages 6 to 17, who lack role models and are challenged by poverty, crime, single-parent households, and other social issues and who could benefit from a meaningful relationship with an adult. Youth will participate in projects, field trips and other engaging activities. The Montgomery “Reach and Rise” program will be implemented at the Cleveland YMCA located at 1201 Rosa Parks Avenue. If you are at least 23 years old and are interested in finding out how you can assist in the program, contact Program Director Samantha Friend at (334) 834-2232 or e-mail sfriend@ymcamontgomery.org.

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All kids feel anxious from time to time. And who can blame them? From the pressure to

succeed at an earlier age, to jam-packed weekdays and weekends filled with homework, sports practices, music lessons, play dates, birthday parties and other extracurricular activities, it is easy to feel frazzled. “The problem is, with so much stimulation, kids are often more ‘on’ than off,” says Kristen Race, Ph.D., author of Mindful Parenting. “And our brains haven’t evolved at the same rate as our environment.” It’s a vicious cycle. The more the stress response gets triggered--when the brain’s limbic system floods with chemicals, our hearts pound faster and our muscles tense— the more sensitive the brain becomes to it. As a result, feeling stressed can become your child’s go-to response to not just life-threatening events, like the threat of an oncoming car, as it was intended, but everyday life, such as being called on in class, a pop quiz or trying out for the travel soccer team.

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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Your Child’s Brain—On Stress

Being in a chronic state of fight or flight can influence your child’s mood and behavior, her ability to form relationships with others, and just enjoy being a kid. It can also affect your child’s intellectual potential. “The stress response can inhibit the development of the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain children rely on to learn in the classroom,” Race says. Still, tests, the pressure to achieve, the latest technology, social media and extracurricular activities aren’t going away. “There’s a lot we can’t do about the society our kids are growing up in,” Race says. “But we can teach kids to be more resilient to the stressors modern life presents.” These tension-taming tactics can help your child stay calm amidst the chaos.

SuccessRx: Structure in downtime.

Having little to no unstructured, self-directed time may be the norm these days. But many kids would benefit from having opportunities to do nothing much. “Kids need more downtime than adults,” says David J. Schonfeld, M.D., pediatrician-in-chief at pediatrics at Drexel University College of Medicine. From a child’s perspective, lack of downtime “can feel like it’s 10 days before Christmas and you haven’t done your shopping, sent out your cards, or put up the tree,” he says. Taking a breather gives kids a stress outlet, the latitude to develop their creative side and learn to become

problem solvers. After all, when children engage in free play, they call the shots, make up the rules for their games, set the boundaries and adapt to changing situations. It may also help kids and teens learn to connect with others. Conversely, “structured activities are like going to a movie. You’re socializing with other people, but you don’t really have to talk,” Dr. Schonfeld says. He suggests quarantining at least one day each week that’s free of outside events, including outings on the weekends such as visiting an amusement park. “Many parents equate quality time with doing something special. But when you add pleasurable activities to an already full schedule, it’s exhausting,” he says. “Carve out time to just be together, talk and do simple things at home.” How much you put the brakes on your child’s schedule can depend on her temperament. Some kids can naturally handle more without going into overload. “Every child is different,” says Tanya Remer Altmann, M.D., a pediatrician and author of Mommy Calls. “But when I hear moms say things like, ‘My daughter has a play date, then I’m taking her to gymnastics, and then she’s starting her homework,’ I think, ‘Whoa! That’s way too much.’ I recommend no more than one activity per day after school.” Dr. Race takes a similar tact. She suggests limiting afterschool activities to two per week, such as soccer and dance, or Boy Scouts and football, especially for children age 10 and under.

SuccessRx: Heed your child’s stress signals.

Even after factoring in down time, stay attuned to signs that your child is overscheduled or under too much pressure from school, friends, or other sources. Children react to stress differently, but there are telltale signs. “Young children who feel overwhelmed may have trouble sleeping, find it difficult to separate from parents, or feel reluctant to go to school,” says David Fassler, M.D., clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of Vermont School of Medicine. They may also be tired, anxious, moody, or not feel energetic or enthusiastic about activities that should be fun, like going to a birthday party. School-age kids may also try to avoid an overwhelming activity by procrastinating or losing key pieces of equipment, such as their soccer cleats, so they can get out of going. They can also experience physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches. Pre-adolescents and teens have a greater repertoire for expressing themselves, including telling you, “Mom, I’m so overwhelmed,” but their clues can also be indirect. They may become angry, irritable or weepy. “They may start fighting with parents or siblings, or have problems at school or with their friends,” Dr. Fassler says. Being aware of your child’s stress signals can help her learn to manage her feelings. Encourage your child to let you know when she feels overwhelmed and brainstorm possible solutions together, which might mean taking a break or lightening her load, for ex-

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ample, by dropping an extracurricular activity, participating in a recreational rather than a competitive sport, or transferring to a less challenging class in school. Also, mention your own stressmanagement tactics. If you typically complete work projects a few days before the deadline to avoid last-minute pressure, for example, say so when your child has homework projects due. “Kids can learn to manage their situations to avoid feeling overwhelmed and they’ll take their cues from you,” Dr. Fassler says. SuccessRx: Take personal time-outs. Similarly, take a look at your own lifestyle. Are you modeling calm? Signs you might not be: You’re constantly doing something or rushing from your job to home and back again. Overscheduled kids tend to have overscheduled parents and stress has a trickledown effect. “Even babies can pick up on Mommy’s nonverbal communication,” Race says. “It’s how we learn empathy.” Taking time to do what you want rather than what’s expected of you sets a healthy example, whether it’s exercising, hanging out with your family, meditating, practicing yoga or whatever it takes to nurture and soothe yourself. “You have to manage your own stress before your kids can manage their own,” Race says.

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SuccessRx: Emphasize effort, not grades.

Many kids put a lot of academic pressure on themselves. “Adolescents are especially quick to think ‘If I don’t get an A on this, I’m going to fail everything,’” says Adelle Cadieux, PsyD., a pediatric psychologist at Helen De Vos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Parents can buy into it too, equating lesser grades, especially in high school, with a teen’s prospects for college. But the fight or flight mode isn’t conducive to academic success. To help kids stay calm, and do the best they can, don’t focus on grades. “Praise your child’s effort, perseverance and progress as opposed to the outcome,” Dr. Cadieux says. The lesson? “Your child can’t always get an A, but he can learn that working hard is important.” mp

Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues.

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The 14U Dirtbags opened their spring 2014 season by rolling through the USSSA Champs Wear The Rings tournament in LaGrange, Georgia, April 26-27. The Dirtbags went 4-0 on the weekend to bring home the hardware. In pool game 1, Kevin Dowdell (Calera) pitched four innings surrendering only one hit and striking out four as the Dirtbags pounded Raiders Baseball (Columbus, Ga) 12-0. Grayson Evans (ACA), Tanner Jackson (Cottonwood), Ben Anderson (ACA), Ford Hilyer (ACA) and Tyler Britton (Trinity) each had two hits apiece to pace the Dirtbags. Gabe Maynard (Elmore County) homered. Dalton Hill (Trinity), Demarvin Perry (ACA), Jackson and Britton all doubled. In game 2, the Dirtbags bats stayed hot in a 14-0 drubbing of TEAM Full Armor (LaGrange, Ga.). Britton, MJ Gallaway (ACA), Hilyer and Hill combined to throw a no-hitter. Britton and Hill each struck out two batters and Hilyer struck out three. Hill and Britton led the Dirtbags at the plate with two hits apiece. Maynard hit his second homerun on the day. Britton, Hill and Hilyer each drove in three runs. Britton had two doubles. Hilyer and Galloway each doubled. The Dirtbags were the number-one seed going into bracket play on Sunday. They ran up against the Raiders once again. The Raiders had their ace on the mound. The Raiders stymied the Dirtbags for the first half of the game behind the hard-throwing right hander on the mound. He mixed a dominant fastball and a sharp breaking ball to keep the Dirtbags off the board. However, Jackson had two hits including a double and Perry had a clutch base hit to break the game open. Hill threw five strong innings allowing only four hits and one run. Evans came on to slam the door shut with two innings pitched allowing only one hit. In the championship game the Dirtbags bats were hot again as they ran past the Home Plate Chili Dogs Childs (Peachtree City, Ga)11-2. Hilyer and Britton combined for the win on the mound. Hill went 3-for-4 at the plate. Maynard went 2-for-3 blasting two more homeruns to give him four for the tournament. He had four runs batted in. Hilyer and Gallaway went 2-for-3 driving in two runs each. Jackson contributed a double. For the weekend Hill led the Dirtbags at the plate with seven hits. Jackson and Hilyer each had six hits and five RBIs. Britton had five hits followed by Gallaway with four. Maynard blasted four homeruns on the weekend and knocked in seven RBIs.

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Local Librarians Invited to State Library Workshop

All local librarians are invited to the Alabama Church Library Workshop September 22-24 at Shocco Springs Conference Center. Special guest will be Gilbert Morris, who is among todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular Christian writers, his books having sold more than seven million copies worldwide. A former pastor and English professor, he specializes in historical fiction and won a 2001 Christy Award for the Civil War drama Edge of Honor. Morris lives with his wife in Gulf Shores. Check In/Registration begins at 9:30 a.m.; Early Bird Session Begins at 10:15 a.m.; First General Session Begins at 12:15 p.m. Workshop Ends After Lunch on Wednesday. For more info, visit www.alsbom.org/churchlibrary. To register, call 1-800-280-1105. 73

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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. However, the Hands-On Gallery and Grandma’s Attic will temporarily close for 2nd floor hallway renovations this summer. The Museum will remain closed until Monday, August 19. You can visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. Stay tuned in for upcoming events from the Archives, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama. gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac. org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with 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. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com.

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 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

August 2014 Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4

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

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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 2421861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www. blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (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.

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

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guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Museum galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next class is August 13. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

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. 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 series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education.Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. 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. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. Baptist Medical Center East. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Math & Science for Preschoolers Classes for “3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science)” are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children ages 3-5 will learn math and science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. long and $8/week. Join us at 1585 E Main St, Prattville (next to Pri-Med), to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook for times. To register or for more info, contact Susan Trombley at 321blasttimes@outlook.com or (334) 380-1879. 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 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 Provides expectant mothers information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule.

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, call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or 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 opportuni-

ties to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/ patients_volunteers.html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Hannah Taylor at 4099477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and gettogethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore, Autauga, & Macon Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery office at 6128162 or call 1-800-ACS-2345 and you will be connected to the Montgomery office.** Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call Luella Giles at 612-8162 for more info. Man to Man is an American Cancer Society support group for men who are battling or have survived prostate cancer. It offers them education, discussion and support. Please call for next meeting dates at the American Cancer Society Office in Montgomery.

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Calendar/Support Groups OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. College scholarships to cancer survivors Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through www.cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345 General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.

Divorce Support

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

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous 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

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

“Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 2796677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 2842721. We will also collect Toys for Tots for anyone interested in participating. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. Grief Recovery After Suicide, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., first Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Room 3102. This group is open to family members and friends who have lost a loved one as the result of suicide. Group offers a confidential environment in which to receive support, hope and information. Contact Rev. Susan Beeson, 272-8622. Grief Share, 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. 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

August 2014 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

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 beginning at 10:30 a.m. 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. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step 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 Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 2019638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChaseNE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info.

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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 will begin meeting on May 12 from 6:30-7:45 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group will meet on second Mondays of each month. Meetings are open to anyone who is interested in issues concerning mental health. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for directions/details. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets 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. Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 3rd Tuesdays from 6:30-8 p.m. in room 3104. This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For more info, call 272-8622. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif. org. Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Parent Support

Birth Stories (Past, Present, Future) This group aims to bring together women and their community to realize the shared experience of childbirth of the past, present and future. It is a great time to ask other moms about cloth diapering, breast milk or formula, exclusive pumping, making your own baby food, etc. We also have a featured discussion each month. August will be “Sharing and Processing Birth Stories.” We meet the 3rd Saturday of every month unless it falls on a holiday weekend. Then the meeting is the following Saturday. We meet at 4D Baby Bumps located at 510 Cotton Gin Road in Montgomery at 4 p.m. For more information, contact Naomi Voss at (334) 467-9363 or www.diamonddoulaservice.org/ D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. 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, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (569-1500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_ heather@yahoo.com). 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. 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. Meetings are 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Visit www.montgomeryfbc. org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

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

Single Parents Support

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

Special Needs Support

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 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 presenta-

tions 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 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com. 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): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info! “Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way. Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m. “Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity! “Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children. “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating. “Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher! Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot! You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or e-mail trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

This Month Friday, August 1

9th Annual Wags & Whiskers Silent Auction Wetumpka Civic Center. Doors open and bidding starts at 6 p.m. All proceeds go to support the Elmore County Humane Shelter. Heavy hors d’ourves buffet catered by WindCreek Casino; Wetumpka Mini Live Auction conducted by High as the Sky Auction House. Fee to

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Calendar/Support Groups enter: $15 individual - $25 Couple. Tickets available at the door and at the Elmore County Humane Shelter, 255 Central Plank Rd. (Hwy 9) Wetumpka. There will be hundreds of items to bid on. Visit http://www. elmorehumane.org/ for more information. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream -- Through August 2 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $25 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $20. Reservations must be paid in advance. To make reservations or for more information, call 877-840-0457 or visit http://www.ticketforce.com/. Red Door Theatre Presents Promises -- Through August 3 Downtown Union Springs. Written by Alabama native Joel Williams, Promises tells the story of Joseph, a 67-year-old man who sets out on a journey to fulfill a request made by his dying mother and comes to understand the truth of his own personal history. Letters and artifacts that once belonged to his parents provoke flashback episodes that reveal complex relationships and secrets that were hidden from Joseph for most of his life. His father loved two women--one gave him life, the other raised him as her own. The play deals with love, loss, betrayal, reconciliation and promises, both kept and broken. It is a spell-binding story with a surprising twist at the end! Rated PG-13. Tickets may be obtained by calling (334) 738-8687 or visiting www. reddoortheatre.org. Wetumpka Depot Players Present Best Little Whorehouse in Texas -- Through August 9 Book by Larry L. King and Peter Masterson; music and lyrics by Carol Hall; directed by Kristy Meanor with musical direction by Marilyn Swears. This happy-go-lucky view of small-town vice and statewide political sidestepping recounts the good times and the demise of the Chicken Ranch, known since the 1850s as one of the better pleasure palaces in all of Texas. Governors, sena-

tors, mayors and even victorious college football teams frequent Miss Mona’s cozy bordello until that puritan nemesis Watchdog focuses his television cameras and his righteous indignation on the institution. Due to the subject material, this production is rated PG. For tickets, call 868-1440 or visit www.wetumpkadepot.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Mary Poppins -- Through August 10 Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins showcases some of the most memorable songs ever sung on the silver screen or stage including “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “Jolly Holiday,” “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!” Mary Poppins features original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman and book by Julian Fellowes. Additional music is provided by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353 for tickets. Fabulous Fridays at Callaway Gardens – Fridays through August 22 Music, Circus & Movies on the Beach. From 5-8 p.m., the Callaway Gardens Farmers Market will feature locally sourced vegetables, fresh breads, meats, crafts and more. Beginning at 7 p.m., live music will entertain guests prior to the “Movies on the Beach.” Guests will enjoy these family-friendly movies: (August 1) The Croods; (August 8) Oz The Great and Powerful; (August 15) Monsters University; and (August 22) Free Birds. On August 1, the night will include performance by the famous FSU Flying High Circus at 8 p.m. prior to the movie. Admission for these special nights is $5 per adult; $2.50 per child age 6 to 12 and free for children 5 and younger. For more info, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (800-225-5292) or visit www.callawaygardens.com. Free Guided Tours Offered Daily at The Museum of Alabama -- Through August 30 These hour-long tours begin at 1 p.m., Monday-

August 2014 Saturday. No pre-registration is required. Join one of our experienced docents as they guide you through Alabama’s past, highlighting incredible artifacts, images, and documents and answering your questions along the way. The Museum also provides interactive educational resources for children and families in the Hands-On Gallery and Grandma’s Attic. The Museum of Alabama is located at the Alabama Department of Archives and History in downtown Montgomery, across the street from the State Capitol. The museum is open Monday -Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Admission is always FREE! For more information, call (334) 242-4364 or visit www.museum.alabama.gov.

Saturday, August 2

AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community on Saturdays this spring. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Jasmine Hill Gardens & Museum Wetumpka. Open Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. through October. For more info, visit www.jasminehill.org. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is “Build a Mini-Crate Pencil Holder.” In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free. Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught

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throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz. owen@jackson.org. Dog Days at Old Alabama Town Bring your dog along for a self-guided tour! Visit www. oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500 for more info. Saturday Sunset DJ, Circus and Music Series at Callaway Gardens – Saturdays through August 30 Saturday nights will kick off at 5 p.m. with an onsite DJ. The following musicians take the stage at 7 p.m. with a performance by the FSU Flying High Circus during intermission: (August 2) Aces and 8’s; (August 9) Randy & Darlene; (August 16) Good Fellas; (August 23) Wicked Dixie; (August 29) The Regulars; (August 30) Final Answer; and (September 1) Sons-N-Britches. For more details on the artists, visit www.callawaygardens.com/sunsetmusicseries. Admission for these special nights is $5 per adult; $2.50 per child age 6 to 12 and free for children 5 and younger. For more info, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (800-2255292) or visit www.callawaygardens.com. EastChase Farmer’s Market -- Saturdays through August 30 7 a.m.-noon. Shoppers will continue to find local items such as organic meats and milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads, fruit pastries birdhouses and nursery plants. For more info, call (334) 279-6046. Vicarious Vacations at Old Alabama Town -Saturday mornings through August 30 Free admission. 10:45 a.m.-noon. Beat the heat with Vicarious Vacations, a weekly “journey” to exotic locations, all from the comfort of our auditorium at Old Alabama Town. Enjoy themed refreshments as you join us on grand adventures around the world. August 2 is Nepal; August 9 is Australia; August 16 is France; August 23 is Sicily; and August 30 is Egypt. Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500 for more info. Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Saturdays Through September 28 New location and new management. “In the grove” located on Doster Road across from Gillespie Center (332 Doster Road). 7 a.m.-noon. Featuring locally grown fruits, vegetables, plants, honey and more, with special features, music, art and lots of fun every Saturday. Call (334) 5950854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. Santuck Flea Market 7300 Central Plank Road/Highway 9, Wetumpka. An outdoor flea market with more than 450 booths featuring arts, crafts, antiques, novelties, imports, food, and more.Open the first Saturday of each month March-December from daylight until 2 p.m. RAIN OR SHINE. Santuck Flea Market and Santuck Community Center are owned and operated by community volunteers. All proceeds benefit the Santuck Volunteer Fire Department, Santuck Community Center, and various community needs. Each month a different church or civic organization operates the kitchen in Venable Hall to raise much needed funds. Free admission, free parking available. Call (334) 567-7400.

Sunday, August 3

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Stars on the Riverfront -- Also August 4 Two free performances that will feature a unique array of classical and contemporary works. Performances are 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. For more information call (334) 241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com. Special Needs Skate -- Also August 17 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd.All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Monday, August 4

Old Alabama Town Tours -- Through August 9 Landmarks members get in free for self-guided tours. Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500 for more info.

Tuesday, August 5

Prattville Autauga Tuesday Farmers Market Tuesdays through September 23 3-6 p.m. This additional market day will be held in

the parking lot of Dollar Tree and the old Office Depot location at 1922 Cobbs Ford Road. Local growers will bring their fruits, vegetables, honey and more to this additional market day in Prattville. For more information about the Prattville Autauga Farmers Market, contact the Special Events office at 334/595-0854.

Wednesday, August 6

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 8

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. Freebie Friday at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. Premium giveaway sponsored by AUM. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com. Elmore County Homeschool Organization (ECHO) Annual Open House 10 a.m.-noon at the Harvest Fields Community Church, located on 4280 Deatsville Hwy. We will have vendors on site from the tri-county area providing information on classes available in art, music, foreign languages, LEGO clubs and other activities to supplement your homeschooling experience. FREE - No registration necessary!

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Calendar/Support Groups Patsy and Loretta: The Songs of Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn -- Through August 10 Millbrook Community Players. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. August 8 & 9; 2 p.m. August 10. Visit www. millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317 for tickets. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also August 22 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

Saturday, August 9

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. Autograph Day at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 6:35 p.m. After the game, stick around for MAX Fireworks Spectacular! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com. 200th Anniversary of the Treaty of Fort Jackson Fort Jackson/Fort Toulouse Park, 2521 West Ft. Toulouse Road, Wetumpka. Visit www.fttoulousejackson.org. Magical Creatures Education Program 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. Make new discoveries and new friends. Geared for boys and girls, age 4-10 years old. Advanced reservations are required. Call (334) 240-4900 for more information. Visit www.montgomeryzoo.com. Alabama Wildlife Federation Youth Fishing Rodeo 7-11 a.m. Lanark in Millbrook. The AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo program is designed to provide Alabama’s youth a chance to experience the outdoors and learn about fishing. The rodeo is open to anyone age 15 and under. Admission is free; however, participants are asked to pre-register as space is limited and all youth must be accompanied by an adult. Each young angler will receive a t-shirt and will be eligible for door prizes. Snacks and drinks will also be available. In addition, each participant may take home five catfish each, but may catch and release all they would like. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment and bait, though a limited number of loaner rods and reels and some bait will be available on site. Register now at (334) 285-4550! Second Saturday Events Riverfront Park. Russell Marine will sponsor the inaugural Riverfront Wake Battle Wakeboarding competition, which will begin at 9 a.m. and run in conjunction with the City of Montgomery’s “Second Saturday” Riverfront event in downtown Montgomery sponsored by Stivers Ford and PNC Bank. Watch the top wake skaters and wakeboarders battle it out on the Montgomery Riverfront! The event will feature live music, food, art and a spectacular fireworks show. For more information, contact Emily Doggett at (256) 794-1397. Regular Second Saturday festivities begin at 5 p.m. The fun includes live entertainment, games for all ages (bocce ball and more!), food vendors and adult libations at the SandBAR at the Silos. $1 Admission, 12 and Under Free. No Outside Food, Beverage or Coolers. Visit www.funinmontgomery.com or call (334) 625-2100. 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

August 2014 sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is building “Monsters vs. Aliens Trolley.” Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. Museum Of Alabama Offers Free, Themed Tours On Second Saturdays 1 p.m. Led by expert staff members, these tours will focus on a wide variety of Alabama history topics. This is a unique opportunity for visitors to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of Alabama’s story through the museum’s Smithsonian-quality exhibitions. August 9 is “Stitched in Time,” presented by Ryan Blocker, Collections Curator. What can the clothes we wear, the quilts we make, and other textiles tell us about history? No preregistration for tours is required. The Museum of Alabama is located at the Alabama Department of Archives and History in downtown Montgomery, across the street from the State Capitol. The Archives and the Museum are open Monday-Saturday, 8:30-4:30. Admission is always free. For more info, call 242-4364 or visit www.museum.alabama. gov.

Sunday, August 10

Kids Day at the Montgomery Biscuits Also August 17 & 31 Riverwalk Stadium at 5:35 p.m. Kids Play Catch on the Field & Run the Bases! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Tuesday, August 12

VEG OUT Montgomery 7-9 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 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.

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Wednesday, August 13

CAMGA “Lunch & Learn” Meeting Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, the free event will begin at noon and end at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more information call the ACES office at 567-6301.

Thursday, August 14

Capri Classics Presents Rear Window 7:30 p.m. The Alfred Hitchcock classic featuring Jimmy Stewart and Grace Kelley. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org. Military Open House at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Museum appreciates the service and commitment of military personnel and their families and takes this opportunity every year to show our appreciation. Local active duty and retired military personnel and their immediate family are invited to attend Military Open House. The festivities include art-making projects in the Studios, live music, and a buffet dinner. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333 for more info. Back to School Essential Oil Class 6:30 p.m., location to be announced. Space limited. A special focusing on wellness and essential oils for mood, attention, hyperactivity and emotions. Special Diamond Club guest Kimberly McBryant will teach. Come out for an enlightening time learning how essential oils can support your school year! For questions, call or email Alissabeth Taylor, doTERRA Wellness Advocate, at (334) 478-0166 or alissabethtaylor@gmail.com. Cloverdale Playhouse Holds Auditions for The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe -- Also August 15 Open to young actors age 7 through 18. No experience required. Attend one of those two nights from 6 to 9 p.m. The production will run September 26-28 starring young actors. Visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Friday, August 15

Alabama Restaurant Week -- Through August 24 Visit beloved local spots or discover new favorites during this 10-day celebration focusing on the state’s diverse culinary offerings from barbecue joints to bistros. More than 100 restaurants throughout the state will offer special fixed price menu selections during lunch and dinner. For a full list of participating restaurants, menu postings and more, visit www.alabamarestaurantweek.com,

Saturday, August 16

Moonlight Dash 5K, 1-Mile Pajama Run and Street Party Presented by GMHBA YMCA at New Park Development. Registration for 5K costs $25 before August 8; $35 after. 1-Mile Pajama Run costs $10. T-shirts are guaranteed to all pre-registrants. Awards for overall top three finishers, and age group winners. Pajama Run starts at 7 p.m. 5K starts at 8 p.m. A portion of the race proceeds will be used to support Montgomery Habitat for Humanity. Call GMHBA at 2777766 or e-mail angela@gmhba.org with any questions. Heart For Homeschooling 2014 Conference Hosted by Eastwood Presbyterian Church. 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. The conference will consist of 3 speakers and a 4-person Q&A panel. Speakers will teach on: Fighting Against Legalism and Treasuring Your Child; Curriculum: How To Choose It; How To Use It; and Being Part of a Homeschooling Community. The panel will answer several questions, all having to do with the details of what a homeschooling mom’s day is like. The speakers and panelists are all homeschooling moms; some are still homeschooling younger and older children, others are “retired.” A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Fun door prizes throughout the conference. Large book/ curriculum table. A room will also be available for moms to bring their own gently used curriculum to sell. Booths with representatives from local homeschooling co-ops and groups, as well as local cover schools. Cost: $15/person or $25/couple if you register by August 14 @ 11:30 p.m.; otherwise tickets are $20/person. To register and for more info, visit HeartForHomeschooling.com. Travis Tritt Live at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre 8 p.m. A country music rebel, Tritt scored numerous hits in 1990s and 2000s with his bluesy-Southern rock infused sound. In 1989, Tritt released his first album,

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Calendar/Support Groups Country Club, which was followed by several platinum albums and chart-topping singles throughout the 1990s. *This is a Buckmasters-sponsored event and tickets are limited. Call (334) 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org. Babypalooza Baby & Maternity Expo Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission. Now in its 10th year, the BlueCross and BlueShield of Alabama Babypalooza Baby & Maternity is the biggest baby celebration in the south. Presented by Children’s of Alabama and The City of Birmingham you can expect almost a hundred exhibitors with health, childcare, and maternity goods and services. For more info, visit http:// babypaloozatour.com. GO Fish at the Alabama Nature Center Through August 17 Enjoy catch and release fishing for catfish and bream in the Upper pond, or bass and bream in the Bullfrog pond. A limited number of fishing poles will be available for $2 a day as well as a limited amount of bait for a small fee. All visitors of the ANC must check in at the Pavilion Outpost located inside the Lanark Pavilion before hiking on the trails or participating in weekend activities. For more info, call Holly Beverley at (334) 285-4550. Open to the public every third weekend: Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

Tuesday, August 19

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Dollar Dog Tuesday at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. $1 hot dogs! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Thursday, August 21

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

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “The Treaty of Fort Jackson,” presented by Kathryn Braund. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

Friday, August 22

Crosby, Stills & Nash 8 p.m. Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center. Visit www.bjcc. org or call (205) 458-8400 for ticket information. Michael McDonald and Toto Atlanta’s Fox Theatre. 8 p.m. Visit http://foxtheatre.org/ for details and ticket information.

Saturday, August 23

Dragon Boat Race & Festival Montgomery Riverfront Park. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. For information, visit MontgomeryDragonBoat.org or (334) 625-2100. Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, Cupcakes by Tish will now host Cupcake Decorating Workshops. Classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com. 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 building “Monsters vs. Aliens Robot.” Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. Smokey Robinson Headlines Benefit the Bard Concert for Alabama Shakespeare Festival 8 p.m. Smokey Robinson has written and performed many

August 2014 of the greatest hits in pop music history as part of his group The Miracles and as a solo artist. A selection of his memorable songs include Shop Around, You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me, Ooo Baby Baby, The Tracks of My Tears, Tears of a Clown, Being With You, Cruisin’, Just to See Her and I Second That Emotion. For ticket information, contact Lindsey Jinright at 271-5343 or ljinright@asf.net.

Sunday, August 24

Christian Comedian Tim Hawkins Prattville First Baptist Church, 6 p.m. Visit http://www. fbcprattville.org/ or call (888) 780-1116 for tickets.

Wednesday, August 27

Agape of Central Alabama Chosen as Charity for ‘Changing Oil, Changing Lives’ Event All American Tire & Auto will launch its “Changing Oil, Changing Lives” campaign by donating 100% of one day’s worth of oil changes to Agape. Those interested in participating can stop by either of All American Auto & Tire’s two locations in Montgomery: 2700 Bell Road and 408 Madison Avenue. Proceeds from oil changes that day will go to Agape of Central Alabama, but monetary donations will also be accepted at the locations. “Changing Oil, Changing Lives” is a non-profit organization dedicated to giving back to communities through local auto shops and tire dealers. Companies participating in the program reflect charitable core values and commitment to their communities.

Thursday, August 28

The Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. The speaker will be a representative from the Montgomery Public School System who will speak about the challenges of educating today’s youth. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon

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Monday, August 25, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com. Fried Green Tomatoes Screening at Capri Theatre Benefits Alabama Governor’s Mansion Festivities will include themed hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction starting at 6:30 p.m., followed by the film screening at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at the Governor’s Mansion Gift Shop, Sandra Nickel Reality, at the door the night of the event while supplies last, or from board members. Organized by the Friends of the Alabama Governor’s Mansion, proceeds will support restoration projects at the mansion. Learn more at www.facebook.com/foagm. Video Editing for the iPhone and iPad: A Workshop for Beginners at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts FREE class! 6-8 p.m. For adults and teens ages 14+. Video Editing for the iPhone and iPad: A Workshop for Beginners. Mobile phones make it easy to share photos online, but what about video? During this workshop, you will learn how to create video slideshows with your photographs, add titles and music, and edit video with the latest software available for the iPhone and iPad. Instructor: Tim Brown, Curator of Education. To register for classes, call 240-4365 or e-mail edsecy@mmfa.org. Auburn/Alabama Night at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 6:35 p.m. After the game, stick around for MAX Fireworks Spectacular! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Friday, August 29

Freebie Friday at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. Kids eat free. FREE Hot Dog & Soda for all 12 & under! Afterward, catch the MAX Fireworks Spectacular! For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com.

Saturday, August 30

Mud Mania 8 a.m. near the New Sports Complex & Ball Fields, Wetumpka. Mud Mania is a mud-drenched outdoor obstacle adventure race fueled by excessive and unreasonable enthusiasm. Whether competing alone or on a team,

ultimately it is a challenge that will pit your raw grit against the notoriously rugged Alabama mud. Registration at http:// mud-mania.com/reg.php or visit https://www.facebook.com/ pages/MUD-Mania/108621582581277. End of Summer Old School Jam Union Station Train Shed, Montgomery. Ticket prices: advanced: $15; day of: $20. Gates open at 4 p.m. Event begins at 5 p.m. No outside food or beverages. Click here to purchase tickets. Call (334) 625-2100 for more information.

Monday, September 1

Labor Day Tours at Old Alabama Town Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500 for more info.

Wednesday, September 3

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held every Wednesday at Prattville Wesleyan Preschool. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information.

Thursday, September 4

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held every Thursday at Montessori at Hampstead. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information.

Friday, September 5

The Fab Four “The Ultimate Tribute” w/ Special Guest Ed Sullivan at MPAC 8 p.m. The Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles tribute due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note for note live renditions of Beatles’ songs, the Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing. Hosted by “Ed Sullivan,” this incredible multimedia stage

production represents every era of the Beatles ever-changing career. Call the MPAC Box Office at (334) 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org for tickets. Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held one Friday a month at Glynwood Childcare Ministries in Prattville. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information.

Saturday, September 6

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. Preregistration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/ events to register or for more info.

Monday, September 8

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children, ages 3 through 2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 mins. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 10:15 a.m. or 1585 E. Main St. in Prattville (next to PriMed) at 12:05 p.m., to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call 334-380-1879 to register or request additional information.

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

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Business Card Directory

Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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Business Card Directory

Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! 85

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MontgomeryParents “Parents in the Know, Know Montgomery Parents” The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Home Based Business Directory Squeaky Clean

No job too big or small. Clean/disinfect kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum, dust and floors. Over 13 years experience. Affordable pricing. 334.451.0052

Saxon Lawn Service

You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324.

Call anytime for more information at 334-324-4559.

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

Move In/Move Out Residential & Commercial Construction Sites Free Estimates Quality & Reasonable Rates Call Betty Dennis, Cleaning Specialist 334-303-2585

Busy as a Bee

Ms. Kidd’s House Daycare “Where Kids Come to Have Fun!”

Piano Teacher

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Avon Independent Sales Representative

Need a Babysitter?

Advanced Placement Chemistry Honors Chemistry General Chemistry

BJ’s Cleaning Service

Need It Clean? Give Us a Ring!

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

(current LAMP teacher) Clarence Hann IV 334-315-7070 channiv30@gmail.com

Email KatieGrimesRotton@Yahoo.com or call 334-467-7042.

Avon Representative Sonya Baxter-Martin,

Chemistry Tutor

Virtual Assistant

Social Media Management / Ghostwriter Resume Writer / Personalized Cover Letters Effective Business Letters / ANY Typing Needs Brochures / Newsletters / Researcher / Grant Writer / Multiple Database Management / Calendar Choreographer / Special Events / FUN Excursions / Field Trips P/T Child Care / Pet Care Homeschool Mom / Tutoring (Elementary & Preschool)

B.E.C.T. Services

www.bect-services.com “Providing Support For Change” Providing supportive, flexible and individualized in-home and in-school counseling, behavioral and autism services. Licensed Professional Counselor National Certified Counselor Certified Anger Management Specialist Certified Autism Specialist 256-452-8504

TUTORING 28 years teaching experience Tutoring grades 1st-8th Call Alice Gwin at (334) 215-0032 or (334) 301-7451. Email dalice.gwin@gmail.com.

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Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

Provides breastfeeding education and consulting, antepartum and postpartum doula services. For more information please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-531-0145.

Light and Deep Cleaning Jobs Free Quotes, Window Cleaning, Light Painting Jobs. Call Teri at 365.2727 or 320-8966.

Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com

Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training

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

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

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

Cle Certified K-6 Teacher Reading and Math Tutoring Contact 334-456-3728 or email brittanygraves13@ hotmail.com

Dr “Absolute Clean” Cleaning Service

Reliable, dependable, and trustworthy are the three things most needed when trusting someone in your home. We have all three of them, so just call Trenella @ 334-391-7596 for your free estimate and the absolute best cleaning job you could ask for with no worries, just a clean house. Call today!

Southern Quality Lawns, LLC

Cassie’s English Tutor, Proofreader, Typist and Writer

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

Cassie Rogers (662) 380-6000 cassiesenglish@yahoo.com

“Home is Where the Heart Is” Cleaning Services”

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

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

Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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Fir

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.

First UMC, Montgomery, 46

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 84

First UMC, Prattville, 28

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 19, 41

4D Mommies, 82

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 52

New Park, 45

Adventure Sports II, 54

G2 Services, 84

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 53

Alabama Dance Theater, 57

Glitterbug the Clown, 41

Party Junction, 84

Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front

Greengate School, 36-37

Piano Lessons-Shirley Ingram, 85

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 18

Prattville Wesleyan Preschool, 84

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 72

Hooper Academy, 81

Professional Pediatrics, 12

AllMed Urgent Care, 7

Huntington Learning Center, 53

Pump It Up Party, 79

ASF Acting Academy, 51

Jaclyn’s Salon and Spa, 72

Riverview Camp, 29

ASKIN/Synergy House, 84

Jenny Alexander, MD, 84

Saint James School, 1

AUM Continuing Education, 25

Johnson Martial Arts/Karate, 59

Saint James UMC, Inside Back

Baptist Health, 13

KLynn Ice Skating School, 52

Smart Smiles, 39

Bradford Health Services, 63

Katie Rotton Virtual Assistant, 85

Smiles Galore Parties, 30

Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 60

Kids Carousel, 11

Soiree Mobile Spa for Girls, 21

Centre of Performing Arts, 54

Kindermusik of Montgomery @ FBC, 59

Spacewalk of Montgomery, 22

Chapman Orthodontics, 81

Kingry Orthodontics, 55

Spacewalker, The, 57

CHARMS, Inc., 84

Kreative Moments, 85

Spotless Cleaning Services, 71

Children’s Clothing Exchange, 47

Kumon, 31

Success Unlimited Academy, 24

Churchill Academy, 65

Laura’s School of Dance, 62

Sugar N Spice Daycare, 43

Clenney and Palmer, LLC, 50

L.E.A.N. Health in Central AL, 65

Sylvan Learning Center, 23

Dance Generation, 51

Learning Tree Child Care, 80

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 14

Dancewear, Etc., 85

Legacy Early Learning Center, 83

Team 11 Soccer Academy, 57

Dentistry for Children, 33

Little Explorer’s Learning Center, 22

The Big Green Bus, 14

Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 3

Lori Mercer Photography, 42

The Dollhouse Toy Store, 8

Doodlebugs Consignment, 49

Macon East Academy, 17

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 42

Mathnasium, 56

Tiger Park Taekwondo, 85

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 27

Miller Beef and Cattle, 33

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 55

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 21

Montessori @ Hampstead, 52

Trinity Presbyterian School, 15

E & S Hobbies, 85

Montessori @ Mulberry, 28

United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 27

Eastdale Mall, 9

Montessori Academy, 61

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 69

Easter Seals, 49

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 20

Vaughn Road Preschool, 26

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 82

Montgomery Humane Society, 58

Vishnu Dental, 23

Evangel Christian Academy, 43

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 78

WeeOnes Daycare and Preschool, 47

Families of the Year, 67

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 34

Whitfield UMC Preschool, 56

First Baptist Church, Prattville, 30

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 35

YMCA Montgomery, 62

Alabama School of Math & Science, 2

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Planes: Fire and Rescue

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Language: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Planes: Fire & Rescue PG for action and some peril. Firefighting is serious business. But battling wildfires in the backcountry of a national park poses some extra challenges. Dusty Crophopper (voice of Dane Cook) learns that when he joins a force of veteran firefighters led by rescue helicopter Blade Ranger (voice by Ed Harris). Dusty is there because his racing career is done, thanks to a damaged gearbox. After throwing a bit of a tantrum over the news, Dusty accidentally causes a fire that shuts down the Propwash Junction landing strip. Now unless the town can make significant improvements to their response plan and find a second firefighter, the airport will remain closed for good. And that’s bad news for the large number of residents that are airplanes. Stepping up to earn his certification as a firefighter is one of the few times Dusty takes responsibility for his actions in this story. It’s an eye-opening experience for the little propeller plane that has become used to the accolades and applause of the racing world. At this airstrip deep inside the park system, Dusty’s aeronautic accomplishments don’t mean a thing. Instead he has to prove he has what it takes to fly with this dedicated crew. Along with Blade Ranger, he meets Lil’ Dipper (voice of Julie Bowen), Windlifter (voice of Wes Studi), Cabbie (voice of Dale Dye) and a crew of smokejumpers (voices of Regina King, Corri English, Bryan Callen, Danny Pardo and Matt Jones). Luckily for the movie’s merchandising department, this entire new cast also translates into more toys on store shelves. In reality Dusty’s transformation isn’t that farfetched. During the 1950s crop dusters became some of the first planes adapted to aerial firefighting. The historical angle is interesting, as are depictions of some of the actual techniques use by these blaze extinguishers. The problem is this film is aimed at the 5 to maybe 10-year-old age group that is still interested in playing with cartoon looking toys. The movie’s plot however is full of peril. During a huge forest fire, Dusty and Blade are forced to take shelter in an old mine shaft when they are stranded in the heart of the blaze. Another time Dusty defiantly disobeys orders and ends up in the river rapids. As a result of his disobedience, he puts his life and the life of his rescuer in serious danger. While the animated flames and explosive fireballs look impressive -especially on the big screen -- they may be too intense for young viewers. So while Dusty and his friends make incredibly cute play things and teach some unmistakable lessons about responsibility and friendship, they just don’t reach the kind of altitude we’ve come to expect from this animation studio.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: B+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Dawn of the Planet of the Apes PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and brief strong language. After being exposed to an experimental virus designed to reverse the effects of Alzheimer’s disease (as seen in the prequel, The Rise of the Planet of the Apes), a group of primates broke free and attacked the inhabitants of San Francisco. Nearly a decade later the primates have built a city, and civilization of sorts, in the middle of a wooded area. Two years have passed since they saw their last person and for all they know the human race is dead. Unfortunately that belief ends abruptly when a couple of apes innocently stumble upon a man in the forest. The frightened individual pulls out a gun and shoots one of them. The reverberations of that shot echo through both the human and primate population and are the start of a war between the two. Caesar (voiced by Andy Serkis) leads the growing band of genetically evolving apes. Some of them speak not just words, but entire sentences. Although Caesar was the one who initially led the apes in their revolt against the humans, he wants nothing to do with the conflict if he can help it. Even this animal knows no one wins. But Koba (voice of Toby Kebbell) feels differently and he goes to extreme measures to incite a battle between the two speices. Meanwhile the humans also have opposing views about engaging in combat. Former San Francisco Police Chief Dreyfus (Gary Oldman) has the last living citizens hunkered down near Market Street. He has assembled an arsenal of weapons and built walls around their part of town in preparation for an attack. Among these survivors are Malcolm (Jason Clarke), his son Alexander (Kodi-Smit-McPhee) and his girlfriend Ellie (Keri Russell). While this trio is scouting out an old hydro plant in hopes of finding a power source for the city, they come face to face with the angry apes. Yet Malcolm isn’t prepared to fight them after he sees their developing humanity. Like the previous movies in this franchise, the apes are incredibly realistic thanks to motion capture technology and a group of talented actors who portray them. But giving the animals human-like feelings and emotions increases the sense that these two species are more alike than different. That is all too evident in a negative way when apes and humans attack one another with guns and explosives, and then imprison one another. Characters are also brutally beaten or shot at close range.

What Parents need to know about Dawn of the Planet of the Apes...

Violence: Riots, deaths and the breakdown of society occur during a worldwide epidemic. A bear attacks and is stabbed to death in the back. Some characters are shown with bloody injuries. Characters are shot, sometimes at close range, and killed. Frequent scenes of hand-to-hand conflict are shown along with some other weapon use. Explosives are used to destroy buildings or kill characters. Others are rounded up and imprisoned. A character is nearly choked to death. A character takes over a group after shooting and killing the leader. Other portrayals of non-graphic violence and some frightening images are shown. Sexual Content: A couple embraces and kisses. The birth of a new baby is depicted. Language: The script contains a strong sexual expletive along with profanities, scatological slang and some vulgarities. Alcohol / Drug Use: A minor character smokes on several occasions. Some brief scenes of drinking are shown.

What Parents need to know about Planes: Fire & Rescue...

Violence: While the movie doesn’t include any real violent interactions involving weapons, there are plenty of moments of peril. A character nearly crashes after his engine stalls. Later he makes a crash landing that results in a large explosion and fire. Numerous characters face peril when they are caught in a forest fire. A character’s disobedience threatens his life and the life of his rescuer. Characters discuss the death of others. A character is seriously injured after sacrificing himself to protect others. Sexual Content: The script contains several mild and usually veiled sexual innuendos, along with some vague sexual comments. Language: The script includes some name-calling and numerous words substituted for swearing. The movie contains several potty humor jokes. Alcohol / Drug Use: The characters hang out in a bar setting on a couple of occasions. They make references to alcohol and drink oil products that appear to be their form of liquor. Montgomery Parents I August 2014

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5/19/14 10:46 AM