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There Is Hope Ahead. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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Volume 19 Number 12
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6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
Your House or Mine?
No More Have-To Babysitting Exchanges Holidays Find four ways parents can save money by trading babysitting.
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How to keep your family happy this season.
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen
44 Elmore Education Matters
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by Superintendent Jeffery E. Langham
58 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith
62 Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey
Holiday Happenings From parades to tree lightings to musicals and more, these events make your season bright!
Parenting the Challenging Child
Sanity-saving advice and solutions for concerned parents.
On The Cover Grace Watson (age 3) is the daughter of Jason and DeAnne Watson. She has an older brother and sister who adore her, Will (17) and Anna (14). Grace has brought renewed excitement to our home and immeasurable joy to the hearts of her entire family. She makes us laugh daily and reminds us that life is an adventure! Grace enjoys playing with her friends at school (Memorial Presbyterian Childcare), taking care of her baby dolls, wearing her mom’s high heels and spending time with her grandparents. She is thrilled to be on the cover of Mommy and Daddy’s magazine this month!
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76 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 84 Calendar/Support Groups 95 Advertiser Directory 96 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Editor’sNote Well, you know I had to do it! I had to put our precious Grace on the cover of Montgomery Parents at some point, so I decided to let her sweet face wish you all a Merry Christmas! Having a three year old sure brings holiday magic back to a home where pure excitement and surprises are hard to come by. Of course, Will (17) and Anna (14) still love celebrating Christmas as much as Jason and I do, but there’s nothing quite like a little one during the holidays. They bring a level of energy and Christmas wonder all their own! Over the years, we’ve done Christmas different ways when it comes to spending it either at home or on the road. I can remember when Will and Anna were young, we would be gone on Christmas Eve until 10 o’clock, get up and open gifts Christmas morning, then be out the door by 10 to another family member’s house. We’d go home for about an hour in the afternoon and then be off again to a family celebration for Christmas evening. While we had a wonderful time with each of our extended families, I have to admit it was rather exhausting. As years went by we tried to free up some time on Christmas Eve so we could begin our own traditions with the kids, like attending a candlelight service then heading home to watch A Charlie Brown Christmas and Emmett Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas while eating one of our favorite comfort-food meals. And we also found ourselves wanting a little more time at home on Christmas morning, so instead of heading out to my mom’s house, we invited them to come to brunch at ours. Our families have always been flexible and we’ve been able to work around each other’s schedules and ideas for change without much conflict, which is a blessing. Many of you have probably run into some of the same scheduling issues and have spent many a Christmas just wishing you could slow down and enjoy the holiday more. Be sure to read this month’s article, No More Have-To Holidays, for tips on how to simplify your holiday season and keep your family happy. It’s okay to do things differently as long as we communicate in kindness and keep other’s feelings in mind when we make changes we feel are necessary. Also in this issue is our 2014 Holiday Happenings Guide where you’ll find an abundance of family fun in the River Region or just a short drive away. Maybe incorporating some of these events into your December calendar will be the start of new traditions for your immediate, and even your extended, family. As we close out 2014, we mark the 20th anniversary of Montgomery Parents, the River Region’s foremost parenting source! Thank you all for your support over the years...and a special heaven-sent “thank you” to my mother-in-law, dear friend, and founder of Montgomery Parents, Marty Watson. She and my father-in-law Jim created a valuable resource that Jason and I are privileged to continue providing for you each month! All of us at Montgomery Parents want to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and very Happy New Year!
DeAnne
deanne@montgomeryparents.com
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
Montgomery Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Montgomery Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen David Drennan, M.D. Laura Handey Sandi Haustein Christina Katz Dr. Jeff Langham Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com
Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Savannah Bowden Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Member
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
A Fail-Safe Plan to End Arguing Q: My 6-year-old son argues with me
about everything I tell him to do. He comes up with reason after reason why he shouldn’t have to or can’t, why it’s unfair, or why, at the least, I should help him. I think he’s got some argument disorder. Is there such a thing? In any case, it’s beginning to drive me nuts, up a wall, and over the edge. Is there a solution?
A: Yes, there is a solution, and it’s a simple one at that. Best of all, it’s failsafe, by which I mean that if you do what I tell you to do without arguing with me, you should be argument-free within a week or less. And I do not have a bridge I’d like to sell you. First, you need to accept that YOU, not your son, are the cause of these ongoing arguments. You tell him to do something; he begins to present his contrarian case; and you respond as if you are now engaged in a transaction between equals. You attempt to explain to him why he should or can or why you aren’t going to help, as if you are obligated to justify your instructions and
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
decisions to a 6-year-old. In effect, you elevate him to peer status with you. More accurately, you descend to peer status with him. Either way, you abdicate your authority. Your son is only taking advantage of an opportunity you are presenting to him. That is his inalienable human right. You may also be providing explanations along with the instructions you give him. Explanations, which came into vogue in the 1970s, invite contentious engagement. It’s one thing to tell a child to wear long pants to church. It’s another to explain why long pants are appropriate church attire. Explanations always sound persuasive rather than authoritative. As such they provoke push-back, as in argument. When people my approximate ancientness were children, the only explanation we ever heard was “Because I said so.” We heard this because our parents gave simple instructions, sans explanations. “We want you to wear long pants to church,” they said, as opposed to “We want you to wear long pants to
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church because blah blah blah.” So, lacking explanations, we asked for them. “Why?” we whined, to which our parents said the most dread four words in all of childhood. Some of them added, “Put that in your pipe and smoke it.” That simply added to the mystery. That is how to stop arguments. You simply give the instruction in as few words as possible. “It is time for you to pick up your toys,” for example. The child will then ask for an explanation. Don’t be fooled. In that context, “Why?” and “Why not?” are not requests for information. They are challenges to battle. When you answer the child with anything other than “Because I Said So,” you step straight into quicksand, and the harder you struggle, the further and faster you sink. It’s an example of parenting minimalism, defined by my online dictionary as “using a few very simple elements to achieve maximum effect.” Indeed. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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MPAC Events
Tickets are already on sale for the following shows at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Call 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org.
Friday, December 19 * 6:15 p.m. Celebrate this special season with the Capital City’s very merry Christmas Parade filled with jolly floats and festivities. Gather your friends and loved ones for a night that is sure to make all your Christmas dreams come true! Parade route from Capitol Steps to Fountain. For more info, call 625-2100.
At Eastdale Mall December 13 * 9 a.m. Santa always starts his day off with a good breakfast, and this year Eastdale Mall invites you to join him! Breakfast sponsored by Cinnabon is $5 per child and all proceeds will go to Child Protect. For more info or to make reservations, please e-mail Suzanna.wasserman@aronov. com. More info at eastdale-mall.com/ events/2014/12. At the Shoppes at EastChase December 13 & 20 Kids can enjoy breakfast with Santa at Panera Bread from 8:30-10:30 a.m. The $10 cost will include visits with Santa, breakfast and photos. Register by December 11. Call 279-6046 to reserve your spot! More info at www.theshoppesateastchase.com/. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
Written by Charles Dickens Adapted by Geoffrey Sherman Through December 24 An Alabama Shakespeare Festival tradition begins with the return of this holiday hit featuring Charles Dickens himself who, with sleight of hand and sense of humor, brings his magical story to life. When miserly Ebenezer Scrooge receives an unwanted visit from the ghost of his former business partner, an overnight journey of epic proportions begins. With a gorgeous set, period costumes, beautifully sung carols and a spectacular new ending, you and your family will be left totally enthralled!’ Visit www.asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King
Millbrook Community Theatre December 8, 9, 11 & 12 @ 8:30 & 10 a.m. and Dec. 12 @ 7:30 p.m. Adapted by Joe Cosentino
Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells
Wetumpka Depot Players December 8-12 Based on the children’s book written by Barbara Park; directed by Kristy Meanor. Daytime performances for school groups and parents with homeschooled children or preschoolers. One evening performance, December 16 at 7:30 pm.Tickets are available by calling the box office at (334) 868-1440. For more info, also visit www. wetumpkadepot. com. 10
Steven Curtis Chapman December 2 @ 7 p.m. Baptist Health Foundation sponsors this fun, family-oriented Christmas event that benefits Baptist Hospice. Brandon Heath and Jillian Edwards will join Chapman. Tickets begin at $25.
A Third Day December 4 @ 7 p.m. Founded in Marietta, Ga. during the ‘90s, Grammy award-winning Christian rock group Third Day has sold more than 10 million albums. Tickets begin at $27.
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Ronnie Milsap December 7 @ 7:30 p.m. This six-time Grammy-winning icon has blurred genres and dominated various charts beyond country. Joe Bonamassa December 12 @ 8 p.m. Bonamassa’s career began onstage opening for B.B. King in 1989, when he was only 12 years old. Today, he is hailed worldwide as one of the greatest guitar players of his generation, and has released 15 solo albums in the last 13 years on his own label.
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Agape of Central Alabama Presents
MICHAEL OHER
February 24 @ 7:30 p.m. Michael Oher came from a broken home and his estranged father was murdered while Oher was in high school. Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy became Oher’s legal guardians and he developed into a college football star and a top NFL draft pick. Oher’s story was told in Michael Lewis’s book The Blind Side and the Sandra Bullock film of the same name. Tickets begin at $27. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Holiday Open House @ the Art Museum
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Capri Theatre in Old Cloverdale Visit www.capritheatre.org for details!
Saturday, December 6 * 1-4 p.m. Festivities for this event include musical performances by local school choirs and performance groups, holiday art projects, cookies and lemonade, and horse and carriage rides in the park. Holiday Open House is free and open to the public, so invite your friends and family and spend the afternoon at MMFA celebrating the season. Visit www.mmfa. org or call 240-4333.
Christmas @ the Alabama Nature Center!
December 20-21 Make your own Christmas candy over the fireplace in the Lanark Pavilion, or create your own hand-made Christmas decorations from native Alabama plants! While it might not be cold enough for a sleigh in Alabama, kids and adults can enjoy a holiday hayride with Santa and his elves. Contact Holly Beverly at (334) 285-4550 or hollyb@ alabamawildlife.org.
Christmas on the Coosa
Saturday, December 13 7:30 a.m. & 9 a.m. Character Breakfast (Wetumpka Civic Center); 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Arts and Crafts (behind Wetumpka City Administration Bldg.); 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Car Show (Gold Star Park); 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Gold Star Stage Performances; 2 p.m. Street Parade; 5 p.m. Ski-in Santa/Boat Parade; and 6 p.m. Fireworks. Visit www.wetumpkachamber.com.
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PJ Party with Santa
Eastdale Mall is hosting a PJ Party with Santa December 20 from 6-8 p.m. Join Mrs. Claus and DJ Ziggy for this FREE holiday party, complete with milk & cookies. Santa will make a special appearance to read a story to the children, and lead them in a few of his favorite songs. Afterwards, head on over to Santa’s Village for a keepsake photo! For more info, call 277-7380 or e-mail Suzanna.Wasserman@aronov. com. More info at eastdale-mall.com/ events/2014/12.
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“My Throat Hurts!” How many times have your children stated this complaint in the course of a year? Sore throats are very common symptoms for both children and adults and are caused by an inflammation or irritation in the back of the throat and around the tonsils. The medical term for this condition is pharyngitis and the etiologies in the pediatric/adolescent age group include viral and bacterial infections, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis, environmental issues and gastroesophageal reflux. Viral infections are the most common causes and amount to about 70% of the total yearly cases. Such viruses as Influenza A&B, Adenovirus, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), Epstein-Bar virus (mononucleosis virus), and Rhinovirus are just a few of the many viruses that can cause pharyngitis as well as other symptoms in the pediatric patient. The common symptoms and signs of these infections can be as follows: pharyngitis or sore throat; headache, runny nose, body-aches, muscle-aches, fever (mostly low grade), cough, and decreased appetite. These viral infections do not require antibiotics unless there is a bacterial complication. Influenza A&B are usually diagnosed by the clinical presentation and confirmed by the rapid nasal swab flu test. If the illness is diagnosed within 48 hours of onset of fever and symptoms, definitive drug treatment with Tamiflu, an antiviral, can be started. This drug kills the virus, shortens the time of being contagious, and reduces viral complications. However, pre-
vention of the infection by a Flu vaccine either in the injectable or nasal mist forms is also an important method of treatment. The Epstein-Bar virus which causes the mono syndrome is another important viral infection seen in older children and adolescents. These patients not only have the sore throat and fever seen with many viral infections, but also they have large neck lymph nodes and sometimes an enlarged liver or spleen on physical exam. The diagnosis is made by exam and confirmed by blood tests and negative rapid strep and throat cultures. If there is an enlarged spleen, avoidance of contact sports is necessary to prevent rupture until spleen is normal. Bacterial pharyngitis, mainly from Group a beta-hemolytic Streptococcus occurs in greater numbers in winter thru spring and account for 30% of throat infections in children/adolescents. Other bacteria such as Pertussis (whooping cough) and Diphtheria are also causes of bacterial pharyngitis but to a much lesser degree. The symptoms and signs of Strep pharyngitis that distinguish it from viral infections include fever greater than 100 degrees F., significant pus or exudate on the tonsils, enlarged painful neck lymph nodes, a red sandpapery fine rash on face and body, a fine red rash on the roof of mouth, the absence of mouth or gum ulcers and usually no symptoms of cough or runny nose. The patient with Strep disease may also have some of the common symptoms of decreased appetite, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain,
headache, body-aches and muscle-aches which sometimes are seen with viral infections making it hard to tell the difference between Strep disease and viral etiologies. Usually lab tests such as a rapid strep test with backup throat culture are done to assist the clinician in making the correct diagnosis. If either test is positive or the patient has the clinical signs and symptoms of strep pharyngitis, an antibiotic is prescribed to speed the recovery of the patient, render him non contagious, and prevent some severe complications such as rheumatic fever, nephritis, and abscess of the tonsils. The incubation period is 1-3 days after contact. Children with Strep may return to school or daycare 24-48 hours after starting their antibiotic. It is important not to eat or drink after anyone with Strep throat. It is a good practice to change out toothbrushes after a case of Strep to avoid another infection. Other treatments for sore throats are as follows: acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain and fever relief; throat lozenges; use a cool air humidifier in bedroom; increase fluid intake; gargle with warm salt water several times daily: ¼ tsp of salt to ½ cup water. Call or see your doctor to rule out strep or other treatable causes of sore throat especially during the flu and strep seasons or if exposed to these conditions. Dr. Drennen earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1975 and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine in Loveland, Colorado. He then practiced in Ozark, Alabama before coming to Professional Pediatrics in 1998. He and his wife Rebecca have two sons. The entire family enjoys downhill skiing and beach activities.
Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy
OFFICE (334) 271-5959 NURSE LINE (334) 272-6667
Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday Montgomery Parents I December 2014
8:00 am - Evening Appts. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 12
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Living Christmas Tree December 12 • 7 pm December 13 • 4 & 7 pm December 14 • 4 & 7 pm
For tickets, call 334.241.5156 or online at
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No offering will be taken during the presentation. $5 per ticket suggested.
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Celebrating the Joy of Christmas 305 South Perry Street | Montgomery, AL 36104 | 334.834.6310 | www.montgomeryfbc.org
Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship You are invited to this very special experience for the entire family.
3:30 & 5:00 pm | Main Sanctuary 13
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A Most Wonderful Time of the Year--For Some Many of us pulled out pen and paper to begin planning for Christmas weeks ago; the menu, the gift list, Christmas cards, decorations, parties for family and friends, etc. Most of us are fortunate enough to have loving families and the resources to have traditional celebrations with food, gifts and trees. Having these blessings already in place positions us to stretch our thinking so that our lists and our days include a little or a big something for the less fortunate. Every month I share a few words here with suggestions to help your children learn. Today, I want to continue talking about learning … but using the brain with lots of heart.
If your family already includes helping others as part of your holiday traditions—kudos! If this is not something you have done in the past, please consider adding it to your celebration – especially if you have children. In Montgomery Public Schools, we often have faculties and students joining hands to help others who may be going through some difficult times. I want to take a minute to thank the Montgomery Public Schools family for an attitude of giving throughout the year. When we do, we are modeling a caring attitude. Somehow, opportunities appear to grow larger during the holiday season revealing many calls to help the less fortunate. So we must keep it going… The Salvation Army provides services to the needy year round. Their red kettles offer a simple way to donate to the homeless and hungry. If you want to do more, you can call them at 334-265-0281 or take donations to their office at 900 Bell Street. If you would rather get more involved, they need people to help serve meals, help with mailings, and even help teach life skills classes.
The Montgomery Area Food Bank can turn a $1 donation into six meals. Lead your children on a neighborhood fundraising or food drive. You can contact them at 334263-3784 to find out more. There are many other ways to give: • Anonymously pay off a layaway account. • Visit a nursing home with some homemade cookies for the residents. • Look for an Angel Tree and choose a child in need. • Give to the Marine’s Toys for Tots. • Check with the pastor of your church to see if there are families in need you can help. However you celebrate, please consider showing your children the joy of giving. It is a tradition worth passing on. 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
Montessori @ Mulberry Accepting New Students
Montessori at Mulberry Academy located in Cloverdale is now accepting students age 12 months to six years. “Beginning a child at this young age into our preschool allows us to build a deeper relationship with parent and child during their critical developmental stages,” says Director of Education Terri Jackson. “Many of our students are preparing for the magnet program and private school enrollment,” says Executive Director Jackie Maloy-Watson. “This is one of the many benefits of a Montessori curriculum.” For more information, contact MaloyWatson at (334) 265-7733 or visit montessoriatmulberry.com. Emme Kaplan is shown working with a practical life lesson at Montessori @ Mulberry.
Cornerstone Hosts Annual Grandparents’ Day
Students in Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s kindergarten through sixth grades welcomed their grandparents to the school’s annual Grandparents’ Day recently. Cornerstone students treated the grandparents to a performance featuring songs and recitations that the children had learned in their academic curriculum. Grandparents then visited the classrooms and examined work produced by their grandchildren in the course of a normal school day. At the end of the morning, the students and grandparents enjoyed a time of refreshments. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
STJ Photography Students Picture College Firsthand
Saint James School’s Graphic Design/Photography/Visual Arts teacher Evelyn Shoults traveled with her Photography II and Graphic Design classes to Troy University recently to see first-hand what actually happens in college photography/graphic design classes. The students enjoyed critiquing college level photography, voting on college level visual art projects, experiencing a laser-cutting printer at work, and seeing the end product used within student artwork. The students toured the photography darkroom, joined classes in session - and even participated! The experience was great exposure to what the future holds for these students.
ECA Holds Annual Patriotic Program To Honor Veterans
Evangel Christian Academy recently honored veterans of all branches of the military with a Veterans’ Day chapel service. Students from elementary and high school participated. Several patriotic songs were sung including: “The Star Spangled Banner,” “You’re a Grand Ole Flag,” and “God Bless America.” Several classes also recited “The Preamble,” “American’s Creed,” and a poem about the American Flag. Michael Rippy, pastor of Evangel Church and president of Evangel Christian Academy, introduced Al Carroll, a WWII veteran and member of Evangel Church. Carroll was presented with a plaque honoring his service. Also during the ceremony, the Auburn University at Montgomery Flag Team presented the “Nation’s Colors” and preformed a flag folding ceremony. The “Armed Forces Salute” was played along with a Power Point presentation. Veterans who were present were asked to stand as their branch of the military was honored. Several active duty and retired military personnel stood and each group received a round of applause from the students and guests. The ceremony also honored the soldiers who gave their lives in the line of duty with a video and song “God Must Have Needed a Hero.” The program concluded with an emotionally moving video called “For Freedom,” presented by ECA’s High School Drama Team and highlighting the sacrifices made by military members. The performance ended with a depiction of the raising of America’s flag in Iwo Jima during World War II in which Mr. Carroll, ECA’s honored guest, participated. 16
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Trinity Represented in Competition For Distinguished Young Women
Trinity was well represented in the 2015 Distinguished Young Women of Montgomery County Competition. These talented young ladies represented Trinity: Ashley Berry, Elizabeth Bowman, Mary Grace Burks, Caroline Colee, Madison Cornett and Emily Stone. Stone was named 1st Runner Up and Burks was named 2nd Runner Up. Cornett received the Overall Self Expression award and placed in the top ten. Colee also placed in the top ten, while Berry and Bowman received scholastic awards. Founded in 1958 in Mobile, Distinguished Young Women is the largest and oldest national scholarship program for high school girls. It has provided life-changing experiences for more than 700,000 young women across the country and more than $93 million in cash scholarships at the local, state and national levels. In addition to cash scholarships, Distinguished Young Women participants are eligible for collegegranted scholarships from almost 200 colleges and universities. More than $108 million in college scholarship opportunities were provided last year, some of which included full tuition, room, and board to first-class institutions. Many participants leave the program with scholarships to help them with their college educations, but all of them walk away with friendships, life skills and increased self-confidence. Distinguished Young Women strives to give every young woman the opportunity to further her education and prepare for a successful future. From left are Elizabeth Bowman, Madison Cornett, Mary Grace Burks, Caroline Colee and Emily Stone.
Lee ROTC Competes In Drill Competition
Lee High School’s Air Force JROTC AL-011 Cadets recently competed in their first drill competition at Pell City High School. The Color Guard Team won first place in the Color Guard Competition and Cadet Zalkari Thornton won second place in the Individual Drill Competition (also known as Knockout).
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.
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Montgomery County Schools
Catholic Holds Campus Open House Events Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School will host an Open House for all grades (K4-12) in January. We invite you to learn more about what Montgomery Catholic has to offer your family. Tour our campuses, meet teachers, and learn more about our program. St. Bede Elementary Campus 3850 Atlanta Highway Tuesday, January 13 4:30-6:30 p.m. Holy Spirit Elementary Campus 8580 Vaughn Road Thursday, January 15 4:30-6:30 p.m. Middle-High School Campus Grades 7-12 5350 Vaughn Road Wednesday, January 21 4:30-6:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.montgomerycatholic.org or call 334.272.7221 ext.32.
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
MEA Inducts New Honor Society Members
The Macon East Academy chapter of the National Honor Society inducted 13 new members at a ceremony held October 28. Membership into the National Honor Society is based on a cumulative GPA of 3.625 or better and high standards of scholarship, service, leadership and character. The following 10th-12th grade students met these requirements for the 2014-2015 year and were inducted into the organization: Jessica Gulsby, Morgan Long, Cole Sikes, Adam Durden, Jennifer Campbell, DJ Holifield, Chandler Lunn, Seth Meadows, Sydney Mills, Sami Nesbitt, Rai Pritchett, Mary Brooks Thomas and Alex Wyrosdick.
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BrewTech Robotics Wins Award for Excellence
The BrewTech High School Rams VEX Robotics teams won a number of awards during the Loachapoka VEX SkyRise State Qualifier Competition recently. They won the Excellence Award, the highest awarded presented in the VEX Robotics Competition, two Tournament Champion Awards, and BrewTech’s first all-girls team placed sixth in the competition. Team members are Ben Powell, Geoffrey Percival, Robert McAuley, Isaiah Shaw, Jonathan Beans, Jay Patel, Ravi Patel, Ahmed Diab, Phylicia McCoy, Alec Long, Hunter Meadow, Landon Thompson, Marquez DeRamus, Dalton Green, Luis Serminto, David Cho, Sohaib Hazama, Allanna Pringle, Chandler Bise, Taylor Bowles, Adam Beaudry, William Sumlin, Andrew Parker, Minseo Kim, Fasil Hossain, Karis Brock, Will Percival, Landon Cargile, Marguez Boleware, Darius Young, Fuad Hossain, Lauren Taylor and Ashlie Wright.
SUA Fourth-Grader Makes His Own Tornado Siren Success Unlimited Academy students recently witnessed Drue Midkiff’s tornado siren first hand in class. Midkiff, a student in Bonnie Nail’s fourth-grade class, is very interested in tornado sirens. He has researched them in Montgomery and surrounding counties. Searching the internet, Midkiff found how to make his own electromechanical siren, which is the type used in Prattville. “Using his I-PAD, ear buds and a lamp stand, Drue made his own tornado siren and shared it with the class,” said Nail. “The students were amazed and so proud of Drue’s project.”
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• A Beka Christian School Curriculum • Handwriting Without Tears • Saxxon Hands On Math • Arts • Music • Literature • Sensory Learning • Individual Attention • 2 Full-time Teachers Per Classroom • Chapel
1728 South Hull Street • 262.8830 • www.trinitypca.org/preschool 19
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MTEC Seniors Visit Courthouse Annex
The senior class of Montgomery Technical Education Center (MTEC) visited the Courthouse Annex recently. The class is studying the Rights of the Accused, so Judge Reed spoke with students and explained court rules and procedures. Chief Cunningham also took time to explain the opportunities these upcoming graduates could have being employed with the Montgomery County Court System.
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Academy Boys’ Cross Country Wins State Championship
The state meet at Indian Mounds Park in Oakville brought a win for Montgomery Academy’s 3A boys’ team, who finished ahead of Cottage Hill and American Christian. Individually, junior Jack Barganier finished second in 16:55, senior Jack Anderson finished fourth in 17:01, and freshman Bennett Griffin finished seventh in 17:27. The MA girls’ team finished second in the state.
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Cornerstone Visits Persecuted Church
For the past several years, the students at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy have had a different prayer focus for the persecuted church during their weekly chapel meeting. This year, however, the school family is participating in the Voice of the Martyrs’ “I Commit to Pray” campaign. At a recent school chapel, Principal Priscilla Stewart encouraged the students to put themselves in the place of children and teens in countries where there is systematic persecution of Christians. Each class in the school was assigned to pray for a particular country that is listed on the VOM list of restricted or hostile countries. As the students left the chapel, each was given a reminder card listing ten ways to pray effectively for the persecuted church. To view the list, please visit www.ccamontgomery.org.
Duke TIP Selects Students From Georgia Washington
These Georgia Washington Middle School students were recently identified to participate in the Duke TIP program.
EFCA Volleyball Teams Go to State Tournaments
The EFCA Saints JV volleyball team captured the 2014 ACSC State tournament this year with an overall record of 29-1, and going undefeated in Region play. The Lady Saints put two players on the All-Conference team with Emily Grace Dapprich and Lily Thompson earning that honor. The varsity EFCA Lady Saints volleyball squad finished third in the state as well, and placed Ashley Dapprich and Casey Falcione on the All-Conference team. They finished with an overall record of 19-13. 21
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Montgomery County Schools
Catholic Marching Knights Rank Superior
ECA Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The students at Evangel Christian Academy recently enjoyed celebrating homecoming and the school’s 20th anniversary. During Spirit Week, the students were allowed to dress up each day and participate in various activities. The 7th-12th grade classes each decorated a car/float and invited the elementary classes to a schoolwide parade. Not to be outdone, the elementary classes each decorated a wagon and invited the high school to their parade. On Friday night, the ECA alumni were invited to a special reception celebrating the school’s 20th year and a homecoming football game. The following evening, the high school students enjoyed a banquet.
The Marching Knights participated in the Daleville Marching Classic September 27. The Knights ranked superior in all categories including Overall Band, Percussion, Color Guard and Drum Major. Led by Montgomery Catholic band director Alex Johnson, Color Guard coaches Sarah Rech and D’Jara Britton, and drum major William Russell, the Marching Knights are: Skye Alexander, Maria Barragan, Anna Katherine Barranco, Bailey Batten, David Bender, Nick Bowden, Adam Bristol, Marie Bristol, Cammie Brown, Kaelen Brunson, Eric Crenshaw, Marissa Dogan, John Faulkner, Jonah Gier, Ezequiel Gonzalez, Francisco Gonzalez, Jonathan Green, Jonathan Guevara, Cheyenne Hayes, Anna Marie Koerner, Ashleigh Little, Maddie Losik, Katie McDaniel, Zach Moore, Jevon Murdock, Peter Nguyen, Isabella Padilla, Henry Petters, Jeremy Ramirez, Dylon Riley, Mary Reagan Starrett, Logan Stevens, Ashley Sulzby, Maggie Tippett, Ricky Treloar, Beth Vaughan, Chris Waring, Angela Wheat, Clint Williams and Delohn Wyatt, with Band Aides Bobby Crawford, Ashley Hayes, Sean Moore, Katie Rose Perkins and Darian Riley. Shown, Montgomery Catholic Color Guard (photo by Total Image).
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Cornerstone Honors Military Veterans
One of the most anticipated days at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy is the school’s annual Veteran’s Day Celebration. Students, parents, teachers and guests gathered at the school for a memorable day. The day began with a chapel service where students honored members of the armed forces with patriotic songs and recitations. Those gathered also heard from Ryan Kirk, who is currently serving in the Air National Guard as a chaplain and has also completed a deployment overseas. Kirk’s son Carson is a kindergarten student at Cornerstone. Following the chapel service, the students enjoyed a field day. In addition to the festivities, the students gathered to complete several service projects designed to extend thanks to our veterans.
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KNOW CONCUSSION A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull.
STJ Cross Country Wins First Place!
Saint James School Cross Country runners traveled to Auburn inn October and took first place at the Tiger Classic. The STJ girls took 1st and 2nd place in the 1A – 4A race. Rachael Yergensen, coming back from an injury this summer, put up a great time for her first race of the season, 20:06, winning the race! Sailor Miles ran a 20:45, bringing her in just after Yergensen. Jake Maddox placed 9th overall in the 1A - 4A race with a 19:22. JT Peifer and Ryan Townsend both came across the line at 20:00, with Peifer narrowly edging Townsend out, for 18th and 19th respectively, both achieving career PRs yet another week. Saint James School medalists at Tiger Classic from left, Sailor Miles, Jake Maddox and Rachael Yergensen. Coaches are Jessica Owens and Chris Campos.
Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion:
n Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY n Should be urgently assessed medically n Should not be left alone n Should not drive a motor vehicle
ThinkFirst _____________________________________________
Alabama
www.ChildrensAL.org/ThinkFirstPrograms In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER.
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Catholic Crowns 2014 Homecoming Queen & King
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School crowned its 2014 Homecoming Queen and King during the half-time ceremonies of the varsity football game as the Knights hosted Bullock County High School October 24. Carlye Dawn Schmidt was crowned Catholic’s 2014 Homecoming Queen by 2013 Queen Anna McCracken. Foster Reese Smith was named 2014 Homecoming King and presented a scepter by 2013 King Kyle Berher. The Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Court included: senior attendants Megan Carrigan Aaron, Courtney Michelle Cool and Carlye Dawn Schmidt. Aaron was escorted by Joseph Gaten Armstrong, Cool was escorted by Foster Reese Smith and Schmidt was escorted by Thomas Craig Stokes Jr. The Junior Attendant was Marissa Hope Dogan. She was escorted by Jonathan Green. The Sophomore Attendant was Nadine Marie Back, who was escorted by Daniel Joseph Downes III (Trey). The Freshman Attendant was Carrie Elizabeth Belsterling. She was escorted by Coleman Michel Brian Schmidt. Montgomery Catholic students celebrated Homecoming Week at all campuses with a host of daily activities including the Homecoming Bonfire and miniparade held on Thursday evening at the Middle/ High School Campus. Alumni Pat McGinn ‘85 had the honor of lighting the fire. Friday, the Middle and High School held a pep rally and dance off. A Friday night victory of 48-8 led to a fun night as the High School campus ended the week with a Homecoming Dance held at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church Parish Hall. Homecoming Queen and King, Carlye Dawn Schmidt and Foster Reese Smith, are shown. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
M S Trinity Band Participates in Veterans Day Parade
The Trinity “Wildcat Pride” Marching Band participated in the 5th Annual Montgomery Veterans Day Parade on November 11. The parade featured a line-up of nearly 50 entries including service groups, ROTC groups, companies, marching bands, and more. Trinity’s “Wildcat Pride” is one of only two bands that has participated every year in the Montgomery Veterans Day Parade since its inception in 2010. The other band has been the Troy University “Sound of the South,” who is an official sponsor of the parade.
ACA Reveals New Learning Center
Alabama Christian Academy recently unveiled its new Collaborative Learning Center in the location of the former secondary school library. The Collaborative Learning Center features multiple interactive surfaces and integrates technology into a space that reflects ACA’s commitment to 21st century learning. Librarian Charlotte Patterson notes that “the CLC is the perfect blend of the past and the future.” In the new space, books were rearranged and sorted carefully to allow for nearly 40 seats in a variety of workspaces in addition to the two glass-walled collaboration rooms. The collaboration rooms have furniture specific to their functions — whether that is creative brainstorming and video creation or project planning and group collaboration. Each room’s glass walls function as a creative plane, as well as the multiple whiteboards found within. Students in grades 7-12 will also have the capability to project from their iPads onto the digital displays within the collaboration rooms to further enhance their use as a flexible learning space. Two large digital displays were installed on either wall of the common area in the Collaborative Learning Centers to be used as displays for photography or videos, to aid in direct instruction with a teacher’s iPad or laptop reflected upon it, or as a tool for distance-learning opportunities and video-conferencing with guest lecturers. This integration of technology and multiple learning spaces is what Ryan Kendall, ACA’s Director of Instructional Technology, called the vision for the Collaborative Learning Center. “We wanted to provide a space where our students could connect, collaborate, and create — whether with other students there in the room or others across the country or even around the world.” The renovation of the Collaborative Learning Center was made possible through generous donations and sponsorships at the school’s Annual Spring Benefit Dinner held in April and a contribution from the parent-organization Volunteers in Partnership. With guidance from ACA’s Board of Trustees and the Long-Range Planning committee, the transition of the library into the Collaborative Learning Center will ensure the space continues to meet the educational needs of the 21st century learner. 24
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Academy Middle School Students Teach Study of Anne Frank
MEA Softball Seniors Sign Letters of Intent
Jordan Amerson and Bailey Singleton of Macon East Academy have each signed a letter of intent to continue their softball careers at the college level. Amerson is a catcher for the Lady Knights and is coming off a serious injury last season. She has committed to UNC Charlotte. The 49ers are an NCAA Division 1 school and members of Conference USA. As a pitcher, Singleton has helped lead MEA to three AISA state titles in the past three seasons. She has chosen to play for the University of Montevallo and the Lady Falcons under head coach Lindsay Vanover-Savoie. The University of Montevallo is an NCAA Division 2 program and competes in the Peach Belt Conference.
Seventh-grade students at Montgomery Academy put a spin on traditional classroom learning in their study of Anne Frank. Students started the lesson by working together to create a chart with information including what they already know about World War II and the Holocaust as well as what they want to learn about the subject during their study. Students then partnered with a classmate and selected a topic from the list created of what they wanted to learn from the study. With the assistance of librarian Carolyn Pyper, students scoured library books exploring their topics. Working in pairs, the students spent a week researching their topic, gathering enough information to write two to three pages on the topic. Those pages were then combined and placed in an iBook that became the class’s textbook for the study. Using the research skills they had already developed in previous studies to share information on each topic, the students became the teachers. As part of the study, each pair of students submitted five questions about their iBook pages that were combined to create a test for the study. English teacher Caroline Sease explained, “We have students writing the textbook and the test. How cool is that? The students are LOVING it! The ownership the kids feel is inspiring them to dig deep and work hard.” Once the iBooks were completed, students read the play The Diary of Anne Frank in class together, taking turns reading the different parts and really getting to know the characters in hiding as they immersed themselves in the story. Meanwhile, the students submitted journal reflections on the topics of strength and adversity. During their advisee time, students reflected on their own story and the plight of kids their age around the world, thinking beyond Anne Frank’s story. Finally, students worked together to produce a video inspiring viewers to think about strength and adversity in terms of how each person can make a difference.
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Join us for a celebration of God’s goodness through praise and worship, followed by a life-applicable Biblebased teaching by senior pastor John Schmidt via video. Come casual and enjoy our service that starts at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday at the Jim Wilson YMCA at New Park. Nursery and children’s program provided.
For more information contact our office at (334) 356-3076 or visit our website at centeringlives.com
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Montgomery County Schools
Catholic Inducts New Members Into Nat’l Jr. Honor Society
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School inducted 27 new members into its chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) during a ceremony held November 17. More than just an honor society, these 27 eighth-grade students have demonstrated outstanding performance in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, character and citizenship. The newest members of Montgomery Catholic’s National Junior Honor Society are Annie Bach, Anna Catherine Barranco, Erica Blackburn, Lexie Becker, Austin Collette, Isabelle Cochran, Isabelle Dubon, Jacob Flowers, Christian Friday, Nico Gacha, Emma Gandy, Jonah Gier, Reagan Herbek, Jacob Holston, Carolyn Justice, Grace Leslie, Maddie Losik, Thomas McLaughlin, Braley Mullarkey, Zoe Rutland, Chole Smith, Virginia Speirs, Sydney Sprowl, Emily Talbot, Melody Taylor, Amaris Tyynismaa and Donovahn Wyatt.
McKee Middle School Holds Homecoming
Walter T. McKee Middle School held its 2014 Homecoming recently with Zamiah Luster being crowned Queen, Shanya Reed as 8th Grade Attendant, Christian Fore as 7th Grade Attendant and Jatorian Spear as 6th Grade Attendant. Homecoming King was Darryl Flowers. Luster and Flowers are shown.
ENROLL NOW FOR WINTER 2014-2015 Openings in K3 - 12th
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”
CELEBRATING
14 YEARS OF SUCCESS Philippians 4:13
Academics - Arts - Athletics
COLLEGE PREPARATORY CURRICULUM AND INDIVIDUALIZATION 4500 Vaughn Road (K-7th) Montgomery, AL 36106
Success Unlimited Academy,
LLC Montgomery’s Foremost Institution Dedicated to Individualized Education
(334) 213-0803 • www.suacademy.com • SACS/AdvancED Accredited Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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Music • Drama and Visual Arts Education • Basketball Baseball • Softball • Volleyball • Cheerleading • Golf Key Club • FCS • Art Club • Bible Club Chess Club • Book Club • Youth in Government
2328 Fairlane Drive (8-12th) Montgomery, AL 36116
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Cornerstone Plans Information Meeting
Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy will hold its annual Community Information Meeting and Open House Thursday, January 22, at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held in the chapel of Morningview Baptist Church located at 125 Calhoun Road in Montgomery. At the meeting, interested families will hear a presentation on classical Christian education by Principal Priscilla Stewart. There will also be a demonstration of the methodology used in classical education by the fourth-grade students led by teacher Christy Taunton. Parents will be given a tour of the school’s classrooms and an opportunity to meet with the faculty. For more information on classical education or on Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, please visit www.ccamontgomery.org.
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STJ Robotics Team Scores BEST in Competition
Saint James School’s Robotics Team won eight awards, including three first-place awards, at the Boosting Engineering Science and Technology (BEST) Robotics competition held October 11 at Opelika High School. In addition to the team recognition, the STJ Robotics Team instructor, Vicky Eichelberg, was individually awarded the Teacher Leadership Award. “This marks the fourth year Saint James has participated in BEST and it was definitely our ‘best’ year, yet,” said Eichelberg. “I am so proud of our students and all that they accomplished. They were recognized repeatedly during the competition for their professionalism, their exceptional work on their CAD notebook, the construction of the robot itself, and on their presentation. I can’t tell you what it means to see our Saint James students receive such accolades among such strong competition.” The STJ Team took 1st place in Creative Exhibit Design & Construction, Exhibit and Interview, and CAD Notebook. It was awarded 2nd place for Spirit & Sportsmanship, T-Shirt Design, and Web Site Design & Development, and team members were awarded an impressive third place for Most Robust Robot. Their 4th Place awards included Engineering Notebook, Marketing Presentation, and the coveted BEST Award. Eichelberg was honored with the Teacher Leadership Award by the BEST Competition officials on October 11. She is a veteran teacher who encourages and inspires Saint James students in advanced mathematics and created the first STJ Robotics Team four years ago. Shown are the Saint James School Robotics Team along with Dr. Amanda Ousley, STJ Robotics Team faculty advisor, and Vicky Eichelberg, STJ Robotics Team drector and recipient of 2014 BEST Competition Teacher Leadership Award. STJ Robotics Team members include Matthew Garnett, John Kim, Anna Siddiq, Emma Frakes, Peter Wang, Isabel Blancett, Jason Grate, Gyuna Kim, Sean Jung, Justin Lee, Everett Walker, Kiley Dunn, Mary Villageois, Allen Sun, David Ye, Daniel Lim, James Kelly, Josh Garnett, Adam Garnett, Harris Washingon, Urmee Podder, and Joshua Croyle. 27
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Floyd Middle Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
Floyd Middle Magnet School celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month in October at the Floyd Community Center. Mrs. Henley’s Spanish class students sang two songs in Spanish, “La Cucaracha” and “La Bamba,” accompanied by the band directed by Mr. Woodson. A select group of students performed a Salsa dance, and a Mariachi Band played Spanish music. The highlight of the event was a parade of students wearing costumes of each Spanish-speaking country while holding flags. The show was filled with a multi-cultural experience to promote Spanish culture.
ECA Students Enjoy a Fiesta
Elementary students at Evangel Christian Academy recently celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month. During this event, the people, language, history and culture of Hispanics all around the world were celebrated. The children enjoyed music, media interviews with famous Latin Americans, and a collaboration of the Spanish language. To culminate the study, ECA’s elementary classes enjoyed taking part in a Hispanic fiesta. The students celebrated with piñatas full of candy, drinks, tacos, and a day full of fun! Even though the event is over, the students at ECA continue holding Spanish class twice each week. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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Academy AP English Students Create Sonnet Project Videos
William Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets. A group of Shakespeare boosters in New York would like to make videos of every single one of them, in 154 different locations in the city with 154 different actors reciting the lines. To date, The Sonnet Project, an offshoot of New York Shakespeare Exchange, has given cinematic treatment to more than half of the poems. Go to sonnetprojectnyc.com to see the videos and for a full description of the project. Montgomery Academy’s AP English Literature class studied sonnets by Shakespeare and many other writers who followed and expanded upon his example. Students in the class had the chance to undertake their own version of The Sonnet Project. Their assignment was to write a proposal for a video of a sonnet by a more modern writer such as Robert Frost, William Wordsworth, Gwendolyn Brooks or Wanda Coleman, using Montgomery and its environs as the setting and themselves as actors and narrators. The idea was to use the language of cinematics to communicate the ideas of people who dealt strictly in words on paper. Students provided production notes for a possible video; in those notes they analyzed the poem and explained how such elements as lighting, costuming and sound would communicate the essence of the work. Then some students made the videos they had envisioned. One such video, of Wordsworth’s “Composed Upon Westminster Bridge, September 3, 1802,” shows how a gap of 212 years and the distance between the verbal and the visual can be closed.
STJ Artists Recognized At Alabama National Fair
Saint James School high school art students were recognized for exceptional artwork at the Alabama National Fair in October. Under the direction of STJ’s high school visual arts instructor and art department chair Jim Gunter, these students were awarded top honors for their design work. In Watercolor, first place was awarded to Jiwon Ahn, second place to Allen Sun, and honorable mention to Anna Siddiq. In Black and White Drawing, Jung-in Ha took first place and Brooke Engles was awarded honorable mention. Sun took third place in Color Drawing. And, in Sculpture, Engles placed first and Alexandria Seirafi placed second.
ALL THINGS A R E
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Whether you dream of being a surgeon or a kindergarten teacher, Alabama Christian Academy offers the educational foundation for future success. In addition to top-notch academic programs (including a 2014 National Merit Scholarship Winner), the award-winning fine arts programs, athletic teams and spiritual emphasis, ensure that graduates are ready to both lead and serve. Open House K4-12th Grades January 15, 2015 11am-1pm & 4:30-6pm 3 3 4 . 2 7 7. 19 8 5
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Cornerstone Students Visit Antiquity Center
Several students from Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy recently had the privilege to visit the Explorations in Antiquity Center in LaGrange, Georgia. The center is a recreation of sites typical of ancient Israel during the times of the Old and New Testaments. The third-grade students concluded a study on ancient Egypt by attending the center’s archaeological dig. “My students study archeology in science at the same time that we are learning about ancient Egypt,” commented teacher Amy Buxbaum. “When our tour guide learned that we had been studying ancient Egypt, she provided my students an opportunity to explore a recreation of an actual archeological site in the Negev. My students uncovered some artifacts that reminded them of topics we had studied. I was blessed by their enthusiasm. It was a wonderful experience for them.” In addition to participation in the archaeological dig, the students took part in the tour of the Biblical garden that features a genuine goat’s hair tent and a replica of an Old Testament altar. Learning more of the customs and culture of the Old Testament made the study of the time period of Ancient Egypt applicable to the students. Mrs. Gonet’s Omnibus 2 class of seventh- and eighth-graders also recently visited the antiquity center and the artifacts museum. In the Omnibus 2 curriculum, the students engage in a thorough study of the New Testament and Roman history during their course work. The antiquity center brings to life the cultural aspects of Roman history and their impact on the New Testament world. In addition, the artifacts displayed in the recently opened museum added an extra dimension to the students’ understanding.
Saint James Band Marches to the Top
The Saint James Marching Trojans were named Bands of America (BOA) Super Regional Class A Champions at The Georgia Dome in Atlanta November 2. The STJ Band swept Class A designations for Outstanding Music Performance, Outstanding Visual Performance, and Outstanding General Effect. The STJ Marching Trojans are the only Class A band in the country to place in two Super Regionals and a Regional contest this year. They are broadly respected as one of the Top 10 Bands nationwide for bands their size. Saint James placed ahead of two in-state rivals, and finished ahead of four Class A, five Class AA, one Class AAA and three Class AAAA bands with its show, Superstar. In finals exhibition Saturday evening, all levels of The Dome gave the Trojans a standing ovation as the group finished its last competitive performance of the season. Shown, Saint James School Director of Bands Susan Smith, and the Saint James School Marching Trojans Class A Champions at the Bands of America Super Regional in Atlanta, November 1.
S Trinity Has Artwork Chosen for Exhibit
Five Trinity Middle School art students had their artwork selected for the MMFA corridor exhibition, Phenomenal Paper, in connection with the museum exhibition Into the Light: American Works on Paper of the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries. Mollie Flotemersch, Russell McIntyre, Katherine Moore, Lee Ann Palmer and Pickett Reese will have their artwork displayed in the ARTWORKS corridor of the museum through January 4, 2015. These students had their artwork selected from 216 entries from 18 schools or individual teachers in the River Region. They drew, painted, weaved, photographed and printed, in combination with other art techniques to create two and three-dimensional works on paper. A special ceremony recognized the students during the ARTWORKS Corridor opening on November 6. Katherine Moore, Lee Ann Palmer and Mollie Flotemersch are shown.
Catholic Seniors End Volleyball Season
Montgomery Catholic senior volleyball players ended the year at the area volleyball tournament hosted at Trinity in October. The Class of 2015 players are, from left, Ashley Karst, Lindsey Tynan, Jessica Smith and Jennifer Tyner. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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Racing Knights Master AUM Warhawk Challenge
Local Pastor Leads SUA Children’s Chapel
Wednesday morning is always filled with excitement as Success Unlimited Academy Vaughn Road Campus leads Children’s Chapel. Recently, Pastor Greg Zachary and his wife LuLu, from Safe Harbor in Prattville, brought an exciting and well-received message to the faculty and students grades K4-7. Pastor Zach encouraged everyone to keep Jesus as number one in their lives. By using object lessons, skits, and animated preaching, Pastor Zach left a wonderful impression on his audience. “We hope to have this terrific ministry duo back very soon,” said Peggy Henderson, SUA Worship Leader. “The children were so attentive and loved his message.”
At the inaugural AUM Warhawk Challenge Cross Country Meet in October, 23 teams vied for honors and Montgomery Catholic emerged as one of the best. In the Girls’ race, Montgomery Catholic’s Amaris Tyynismaa continued her domination as she established a remarkable course and meet record with her 17:35 win. She remains the top-ranked runner in the state, is among the top 30 nationally, and set her fifth consecutive course record this season en route to her sixth straight win. She paced the Knights to the team championship in the 1A-4A race over local rivals Saint James and Trinity. Katelyn Stark placed tenth, Grace Leslie 16th, Sarah Beth Littrell 18th, and Carlye Schmidt 19th to pace the Knights. In the Boys’ race, LAMP won the 1A-4A race over Trinity and Catholic. Grant Walker led the Racing Knights by finishing 16th in 18:11. Patrick Gregorius was 35th, Angel Padilla 49th, Devin Kelly 53rd, and Andrew Ellis 75th for the team. Montgomery Catholic Girls’ Cross Country team is shown after the AUM Warhawk Challenge. The team is: Ann Faulkner, Lacy Herbek, Grace Leslie, Sarah Beth Littrell, Katie Reeves, Carlye Schmidt, Madison Searcy, Chloe Smith, Katelyn Stark, Annabel Starrett and Amaris Tyynismaa.
Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. ROMANS 15:7
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Join us for Open House and experience how we
prepare students to become persons of faith, virtue, and wisdom.
Tuesday, January 13 / St. Bede Elementary Campus (K4-6)
4:30 – 6:30 p.m. / 3850 Atlanta Hwy., 36109 / 334-272-3033 Thursday, January 15 / Holy Spirit Elementary Campus (K4-6)
4:30 – 6:30 p.m. / 8580 Vaughn Rd., 36117 / 334-649-4404 Wednesday, January 21 / Middle & High School Campus (7-12)
4:30 – 6:30 p.m. / 5350 Vaughn Rd., 36116 Middle School 334-272-2465 / High School 334-272-7220 For more information about our school or to schedule a tour, call 334-272-7221 ext. 32.
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Montgomery County Schools
Macon East Students Chosen for Duke TIP
ACA Students Deliver Cards to Veterans
On Veterans Day, several Alabama Christian Academy students visited and distributed cards at Bill Nichols State Veterans Home in Alexander City. All of ACA’s elementary students took time to draw cards and write notes during their classroom guidance sessions the week prior to Veterans Day to thank the veterans for their service. The students that delivered the cards were able to talk to some of the veterans about their military careers. Shown, ACA third-grader Reese Hatcher delivers a card to a veteran.
The following 7th-grade students from Macon East Academy have been selected to participate in the Duke University Talent Identification Program: Mary Frances Barrontine, Sarah Bishop, Lane Johnson, Zach Kitchens, Spencer Lindemood, Emily Claire Lott, Ally Matthews, Rachel Sargent, Trent Watson, Haley Wren and Jake Wyrosdick. These students were selected based on a qualifying score at or above the 95th percentile on recent grade-level national standardized testing. As part of the selective Duke TIP program, each will have the opportunity to take either the ACT or SAT test during their 7th-grade year and be eligible for additional educational programs offered through Duke University. Participating in above-level testing designed for college-bound high school students allows seventh-grade students to gain greater insight into their academic abilities and provide guidance in course selection and enrichment opportunities through their secondary school.
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Evangel Names 2014 Homecoming Court
Evangel Christian Academy recently named its 2014 Homecoming court. The ninth-grade attendant was Mary Mac Loughridge; the tenth-grade attendant was Alaina Horton; and the eleventh-grade attendant was Tori Temple. Jordan Hunter was the twelfthgrade attendant and Taylor Bethea was named ECA’s 2014 homecoming queen. To commemorate Evangel Christian Academy’s 20th year, Bethea was crowned during the halftime festivities by Ashley Ryals, ECA’s first homecoming queen.
BrewTech Lady Rams Win Tournament
Trinity Students Win ‘Howl-iday’ Card Contest
Trinity had two winners in the Montgomery Humane Society’s 2014-15 “Howliday” Card Art Contest. Sixth-grader Mary Davis Bricken placed first in her age group and seventh-grader Rylee Tucker won the Grand Prize! Her artwork will be on the cover of the Montgomery Humane Society’s Holiday card. Montgomery Humane Society’s “Howliday” Card Art Contest raises awareness about pet responsibility and caring for the animals at the Shelter. Students were recognized at the annual Walk ‘N Wag on October 4 on the grounds of the Blount Cultural Park at the Shakespeare Theatre. Shown are Mary Davis Bricken and Rylee Tucker.
The BrewTech Lady Rams went on to sweep the Area Volleyball Tournament held at Marbury High School in October. The Lady Rams were relentless against the Bulldogs with senior Alyssa Owens scoring 13 points and junior Morgan Thomas 12 points. The Lady Rams earned a spot in the Southern Regional Tournament which was played in the Cramton Bowl Multiplex.
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Montgomery County Schools
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Macon East Volleyball Awarded State Champions
The Macon East Academy volleyball team advanced to the AISA State Championship after defeating Bessemer Academy in the Final Four at Faulkner University. In the championship game, the Lady Knights swept Tuscaloosa Academy and were named the AISA Class AA State Champions for the fourth year in a row. Lexi Brantley, tournament MVP, led the Knights in both matches. Jesi Garrett was also named to the All-Tournament Team. Macon East went into the state tournament with a regular season record of 22-0. Front row from left are Payton Traff, Morgan Pounds, Jessica Nam, Deven Kennedy and Meagan Manley; back row: Coach Brynn Nix, Lexi Brantley, Jesi Garrett, Sami Nesbitt, Madison Lane, Sarah Margaret Poundstone and Coach Erica Hammonds.
The Trinity Model United Nations team, a sub-section of the Speech and Debate team, participated in the Vanderbilt University Model United Nations October 24-26, in Nashville. The students used various skills to meet the objections set forth by a Committee Chair, who was a student at Vanderbilt. This was the first Model UN conference for Trinity. The students look forward to attending the Harvard University Model United Nations Conference in January. Shown are Ashley Berry, Catherine Price, Noah McNelley, Sydney Snowden, Jake Hemmings, Wilson Shanahan, Parker Reynolds, Jackson Scott, Savannah Elrod, Betsy Byrne and Meredith Moore.
ACA Announces Homecoming Queen and Princess
Sylvan Students Visit Auburn Campus
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Trinity Model UN Team Travels to Vanderbilt
Alabama Christian Academy recently celebrated Homecoming week with many student-led activities courtesy of the Student Government Association (SGA), football games and crowning of a Homecoming Queen and Princess. Alabama Christian Academy crowned Miss Peyton Northington the 2014 Homecoming Queen during ACA’s varsity football game against Fultondale High School. Peyton is the daughter of Jay and Kim Northington and a member of the Eagles Varsity cheer squad. She has been a student at ACA since kindergarten. Miss Gracie Shaddix was crowned Middle School Princess following the Eagles middle school game against Elmore County. Gracie is the daughter of Tony and Kathy Shaddix. At ACA, Gracie is the Middle School SGA President and is also involved in the National Junior Honor Society, the 8th grade Math team, and she plays for the ACA Middle School volleyball team. Photo: Peyton Northington is escorted here by her father and is joined by the 2013 Homecoming Queen Miss Meredith Durden, who is currently a freshman at Troy University, and first graders Sydney Jones and Campbell Hammett. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
High school students from The School at Sylvan Learning Center visited Auburn University recently to tour the campus and learn more about the enrollment requirements. Students were welcomed and invited to watch a video about Auburn University and it’s history. One of the teachers from Sylvan, Mr. Robert Southard, who is currently working on his Ph.D. in adult education at Auburn, conducted the tour pointing out many of the historical buildings. Students were able to see first hand what life is like for a college student. Sylvan students who plan to attend Auburn University when they graduate are interested in such fields of studies as veterinary, bio engineering, mechanical engineering, forestry, marine biology, and physics.
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Alabama Christian Academy Inducts 24 Students into NHS
The Alabama Christian Academy chapter of the National Honor Society recently inducted twenty-four new members, bringing the group’s total membership to thirty-six. New members were selected for this honor based on more than just their academic success - selection is also based on demonstration of outstanding performance in the areas service, leadership and character as well. The traditional induction ceremony was presided over by the current NHS president Rachel Treubig and sponsors Mrs. Cindy Savage and Mrs. Andrea Overman. Following remarks about the Society’s ideals of leadership, scholarship, service, and character by current officers and members, the new members took a pledge to uphold NHS standards and expectations. The induction concluded with congratulatory remarks from Secondary Principal Doug Prater and presentation of certificates by Mr. Prater and Superintendent Dr. Shelly Bruce. Congratulations to senior inductees Kaitlin Dinsmoore and Malorie Smith and junior inductees - Rachel Best, Emma Lane Benson, Julianna Churchwell, Jordan Crook, Allie Crosby, Drew Dauphin, Morgan Fleming, Trent Gardner, Devin Gilliam, Olivia Hatcher, Lauren Henry, Macey Jacobs, Katherine Kratzer, Steven Lin, Melison A. McDonald, Tyler Oliver, Sarah Palmer, Miranda Porterfield, Caroline Rives, Haley Sanders, Andrew Schlemmer, and Claire Williams.
MA Junior Completes Eagle Scout Project
Dog walkers and other strollers in Old Cloverdale have something new to enjoy as they ramble through the neighborhood: refurbishment of a park honoring Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. Located across the street from the Fitzgerald Museum on Felder Avenue, the park has a fresh look and some new amenities, thanks to the efforts of a local Boy Scout. Montgomery Academy junior Taimoor Arshad, a Scout since third grade, is about to reach the rank of Eagle. This honor is the culmination of a long process—not only many years of rising through the ranks of scouting, but also a series of rigorous requirements one must meet in order to earn Eagle distinction. Eagle aspirants must complete a significant project that makes a contribution to the life of the community. Arshad’s project honors literary Montgomery and improves the quality of life in his neighborhood. With some help from fellow Scouts, Arshad completed a comprehensive renovation of Fitzgerald Park. He cleaned the fountain and a wooden bench, mulched oak trees and spread pine straw around them, and installed trash receptacles. He installed seven new iron street signs and put in place a “way station” for dogs equipped with waste bags and a trash can for their disposal. The improvement that may most linger with a visitor to the park, however, is a direct tribute to Zelda Fitzgerald. Along with day lilies—her favorite flower—planted around the fountain, there are granite stones inscribed with quotations from her works. Arshad, a member of Troop 15 in Montgomery, expects to receive Eagle distinction this winter.
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Montgomery County Schools
STJ Performing Arts Students in the Spotlight
MA Third-Graders Visit Zoo for Animal Study
The Montgomery Academy thirdgrade class took learning outside the classroom during a recent trip to the Montgomery Zoo. Prior to their visit, students learned about the needs, inherited traits, and behaviors of endangered and extinct animals. Students were assigned an animal at the zoo to spotlight as their “Creature Feature.” While at the zoo, students observed their animal and were asked to write down a few interesting facts they were able to learn. Following their day at the zoo, each third-grader used iPads to research more information on their assigned animal. The project included finding four to five facts about various topics including the animal’s habitat, diet and behaviors. Students were also encouraged to find a few other interesting facts to include in their report. Finally, students were given a folder which they used to make their animal’s habitat. Students incorporated at least 8-10 facts from their research onto their habitat folder by drawing details and using speech bubbles (like the animal was talking). Once finished, the habitat folders were placed on each student’s desk and the class went on a “wilderness walk” around the classroom learning about other animals through their classmate’s projects. From left, Kenda Bonner, Susannah Miller, Luis Rubio, Eli Jernigan and K.J. Jackson study the Bald Eagle at the Montgomery Zoo as part of their “Creature Feature” project.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. It’s FREE! Montgomery Parents I December 2014
All of the Saint James School performing arts students who competed at the district level of the Alabama Conference of Theatre’s Trumbauer Theatre Festival November 2-3 were advanced to the state competition to be held in December. The Saint James students competed at the Trumbauer Festival in Opelika to rave reviews. These accomplished students will compete at the state level at Troy University in December: Kiley Dunn, Solo Acting Female Contemporary Dramatic (novice); Michael Fritz, Solo Acting Male Contemporary Dramatic (novice); Sydney Cramer, Solo Musical Female Comedic; Hayden Ergenbright, Solo Musical Male Comedic and Duet Musical Dramatic; Catherine Bradwell, Solo Musical Female Dramatic and Duet Musical Dramatic; and Emma Colson, Solo Musical Female Comedic and Solo Musical Female Dramatic. Five of the STJ students were top scorers in the district competition: Bradwell and Ergenbright in Duet Musical Dramatic; Colson in Solo Musical Female Dramatic; Fritz in Solo Acting Male Contemporary Dramatic (novice); and Ergenbright was the second highest scorer in Solo Musical Male Comedic. Saint James School seniors, back row from left: Hayden Ergenbright, Kiley Dunn and Michael Fritz; front row: Catherine Bradwell, Emma Colson, and Sydney Cramer each qualified for The Walter Trumbauer State Festival to be held at Troy University in December.
Catholic Runners Take Cross Country Awards
At the AHSAA State Cross Country Championships at the Oakville Indian Mounds Park near Moulton November 8, Montgomery Catholic’s Amaris Tyynismaa, shown, shattered a multitude of records in becoming the fastest female runner in AHSAA history. Tyynismaa clocked a very impressive 17:03.04 time over the 5000 meter course which broke the 4A meet, and course, record by more than 15 seconds. In addition to making Tyynismaa the fastest runner in Alabama this year, her time puts her in the top 15 nationally for all high school runners. The Racing Knights finished fourth in the team competition as all of the girls on the team ran personal best times or season best times. Catholic placed all five scorers in the top 30 as freshman Katelyn Stark finished 18th and eighth-grader Grace Leslie, freshman Sarah Beth Littrell, and senior Carlye Schmidt packed together in 25th, 27th and 28th. Other finishers on the team included freshman Annabel Starrett, eighth-grader Chloe Smith, senior Ann Faulkner, senior Katie Reeves and junior Lacy Herbek. For the Boys, Montgomery Catholic qualified three individuals. Eighth-grader Grant Walker emerged as one of the best of his year group in the state with his sparkling 16th place finish in 17:34.91. His time establishes him as the best eighth-grader in MCPS Cross Country history. Junior Patrick Gregorius powered home in a personal best of 18:39.71 for 53rd and was followed closely by sophomore Angel Padilla in 18:49.07. This marked the ninth consecutive year that Montgomery Catholic has sent at least one full team to the State Championships in Cross Country and the sixth year in a row that at least one All State performer was named from the team. Tyynismaa is the first individual state champion in the sport from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. The Racing Knights are coached by John Terino and assistant coach Brianna Lisenby. 36
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Trinity Plaintiff Teams Place In Top Ten at Youth Judicial
Trinity had 46 students participate in the Alabama Youth in Government Youth Judicial Conference November 1-3. More than 500 students from Alabama attended the conference. The Youth Judicial Conference is a student-led and student-driven program, teaching students and allowing them the opportunity to experience real-life situations by participating in a mock trial competition. Trinity had six trial teams, two media personnel, a judge, and a bailiff. The Trinity teams finished strong, completing the competition with the #5 and #10 Plaintiff Teams in the State! Betsy Byrne was elected by Trinity’s District 3 as a judge and Sam Nunn was her bailiff. Both were extensively trained in the rule of law and the case prior to the weekend. The Plaintiff Team 509 competed in the Top Ten Trials and came in 5th overall out of 28 Plaintiff teams. Members of this team included, above left photo, back row from left: Jake Hemmings, Jackson Scott, Noah McNelley and Grant Chambliss; front row: Mary Grace Burks, Parker Reynolds and Sydney Snowden. The Plaintiff Team 510 competed in the Top Ten Trials and came in 10th overall out of 28 Plaintiff Teams. Members of this team included, above right photo: Tanner Shamburger, Shea Henry, Forrest Bopp, Hannah Allen, Cole Mitchell, Trent Mann and Savannah Elrod.
This fall Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy partnered with Child Evangelism Fellowship as a sponsor for the organization’s 5K and Color Run. This was the second 5K fundraiser for CEF and Cornerstone’s first sponsorship of a community event. Several Cornerstone students and families participated in the color run. “The mission of CEF is dear to the heart of our school,” explained Principal Priscilla Stewart. “As a school community, we want to see children exposed to the truth of the gospel. Participating with CEF was a way for us to support their work and be part of a community outreach program.” Shown are students Collin Horne, Chloe Carver and Connor Williams.
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MA Students Find Overlap Of Calculus and Physics
Conveniently located in the Mulberry District just off 1-85 at 2034 Clubview St.
F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADITIONAL WORSHIP 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL 9: 45 AM THE WELL 11:00 AM
www.prattvillemethodist.org Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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Imagine this scenario, presented in Cindy Ackerman’s AP Calculus BC class: “A cow is traveling along the parametric path…in a 2-dimensional coordinate pasture. You are standing at point (2,0) observing this ‘point cow.’” This is a heavily edited and truncated version of the opening of a series of nine problems for the students to solve. Among the questions are these: “How far is the cow from you at t =0?” “Is the cow speeding up or slowing down at t = -1?” In the latest example of crossteaching in the Montgomery Academy Upper School, Ackerman recently enlisted the input of AP Physics teacher Melissa Anderson to help BC students (Michael Choi, Jackie Lee and Jeong Shon) understand the concepts underlying both this section of the BC Calculus course and some of the work they did last year in AP Physics. When Ackerman mentioned her desire to teach some units from her course in an unaccustomed order, Anderson was interested in the idea and wanted to observe the lesson. She watched a presentation on vectors as they are approached in Calculus and while visiting the class she showed how vectors are viewed in Physics. Both teachers and the three students taking BC Calculus were intrigued to see the two approaches side by side and found that multiple perspectives helped their understanding. Anderson visited the class again after taking a look at the Parametric Cow lab. The two teachers and three students found that working the problem from a Calculus angle and a Physics angle yielded the same answer.
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Macon East Academy is an independent, college preparatory school focused on excellence in academics, athletics, and achievement. Our accelerated curriculum is complemented by offerings in performing and visual arts, music, foreign language, and over 20 interscholastic sports, as well as a 1:1 Apple iPad program for students in grades 1 - 12. At Macon East, our students are held to high standards in all areas of student life, and Christian values are reinforced throughout all school programs. Small class sizes and a safe, nurturing environment give every student the opportunity to excel. Macon East is more than a school; we are a family. Schedule a campus tour today, and find out why Macon East is the right school for your student.
Open House: January 20, 6:00 p.m.
Macon East Academy
15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566
Located 7 miles east of Chantilly Parkway, just minutes from Montgomery 39
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Autauga County Schools
PJHS Students Win Essay Contest
Prattville Kindergarten Holds Storybook Safari
On the evening of October 23, Prattville Kindergarten School families came out to celebrate fall and reading during the school’s Annual Storybook Safari event. On this night, teachers set up carnival games to represent favorite children’s books that students had been reading in class. Games included It’s Pumpkin Time, Horton Hears a Who, Old Black Fly, Parts, Bunny Cakes and many, many more. Everyone was invited to dress up as their favorite story character. There were games, prizes, concessions and a cake walk. More than 500 people were in attendance. Thanks to our PKS families, faculty and staff for making this a fun-filled night for everyone!
PJHS Students Surprised By Dad’s Return
Micah and Campbell Puckett, students at Prattville Junior High, received a surprise October 24. Their dad came home after a six-month deployment and surprised them at school. They checked out early to spend some quality time with their dad, whose first stop was eating at Longhorn Steakhouse. Mom Kerry Puckett is a special education teacher at the Autauga County Area Technology Center. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
The Autauga County Domestic Violence Task Force sponsored an essay contest titled, “What is teen dating violence and who does it impact?” Jessica Lucas, eighthgrade English teacher at Prattville Junior High School, promoted this essay contest and ended up with a clean sweep of winners. They were awarded with Google play cards and/or iTunes card. In addition, they were recognized at the October City Council Meeting in Prattville. Chairperson Deborah Yarbrough presented the students with a certificate and a monetary award. Principal Stockman and Superintendent Spence Agee joined the students in the celebration. Winners were: first place, Cade Woodruff; second place, Karrington Andrews; third place, Kaleyah Bristow; and fourthplace tie, Talisa Smith and Kayla Barton.
PCA Senior Receives Naval Academy Appointment
Prattville Christian Academy senior Pearce Phinney has received an offer of appointment to the United States Naval Academy as a member of the class of 2019. His official Induction Day is July 1, 2015, when he will report to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, to begin his training. “We are so proud of Pearce and this accomplishment. He has worked very hard academically and athletically, and participated in extra-curricular activities in order to compete for this honor,” said Phinney’s father, Colonel Todd Phinney, a career Air Force fighter pilot. “As parents, Sharen and I are grateful that it paid off for him, but we believe it was certainly a team effort. We feel confident that his scout leaders, church leaders, and the PCA staff all contributed to him achieving his dream.” The PCA senior and SGA president added, “To be a Midshipman in the United States Naval Academy is a fantastic and unparalleled opportunity. I am honored, excited, and humbled to have received an appointment to this great institution.”
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Prattville High Club Models Example of Kindness
Prattville High School’s anti-bullying club called STAND, listened to a presentation about Operation Christmas Child recently. The speaker was Anya Johnson, the state representative for OCC through Samaritan’s Purse. Johnson received a shoebox through OCC when she was nine years old in a Russian orphanage. She shared her story with STAND about what a difference it had made in her life to receive one of these boxes. The students were inspired to collect items and participate in the shoebox project. Some of the students will travel to the distribution center in Atlanta to help pack the boxes for shipment overseas. By sharing love with others through this project, the STAND members become role models within the school and set an example of kindness for other students. Participating in community service develops self-esteem, which gives a young person the inner strength to overcome any difficult situation they may encounter. STAND was established by Brendan Ryals and Matt Deavers, who currently serve as president and vice president of the organization. The club currently has close to fifty members. For more info, visit STAND on Twitter or Facebook. 40
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Autauga County Tech Center Seniors Apply to College
Autauga County Technology Center’s seniors received hands-on assistance applying to college during the school’s Alabama College Application Week Campaign held November 3-7. Roughly 112 ACTC students participated in the event held in the school’s computer lab. Nine volunteers were on hand to assist the students in completing their applications. All seniors were invited to participate in the college application campaign. Students met each week beginning September 29 to research college and university requirements for admission, secure needed documentation, and gather any necessary information prior to submitting their college application. Students were encouraged to apply to at least one college/university. Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr. presented a proclamation at the Autauga County Technology Center proclaiming November 3-7 to be College Application Campaign Week. “I am excited to assist students in the first step toward reaching their dream of attending college,” said site coordinator Cassandra Morris. “I am happy to participate in the Alabama College Application Campaign.” More information about the Alabama College Application Week Campaign program can be found at www.alcareerinfo.org. For more information about Autauga County Technology Center’s event, please call (334) 361-0258 ext. 27012 or e-mail Cassandra. Morris@acboe.net. Shown are Matthew Womack; Terance Reese; Alexis Barnes; Mayor Bill Gillespie; Cassandra Morris, site coordinator/counselor; Victoria Clark; Lesley Cahoon; and Christopher Thornton, Autauga County career coach.
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PJHS Football Team Ends Football Season Undefeated
Prattville Junior High School had a recent celebration for the seventh-grade football team for having an UNDEFEATED season. Coach Scott Stein and his staff led more than 75 young men to a 7-0 season this fall. Thanks to Coach Donny Burnett, Coach Stein and his staff, and all the parents, teachers, and students who showed such support during the season. Assistant coaches include Terrance Washington, Mark Riddle, Kevin Bozeman, Corbin Stewart and Glenn Luker, and sports medicine specialist Kristle Lawrence. 41
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Autauga County Schools
Prattville Kindergarten Reads for the Record
Prattville community members came out to help students at Prattville Kindergarten School Read for the Record on October 21. This event is a fun day where everyone in the school participates in JumpStart’s national campaign to set a record for the largest shared reading experience. This year’s book was Bunny Cakes by Rosemary Wells. The children had a great time participating in story time with many community members. Students made cakes, wrote recipes, and read many other Max and Ruby books. Students even received a visit from the characters, Max and Ruby. Prattville Kindergarten School was able to report that 580 people participated in this literacy event, including teachers, community members and students. Community members involved included Mayor Bill Gillespie, Superintendent Spence Agee, Elementary and Federal Programs Director Tammy Starnes, PPD officers, PFD firefighters, Prattville High School student athletes and coaches, P.A.W.S. representatives, regional and local instructional coaches and retired teachers.
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PJHS Principal Gets To Know Her Students
Prattville Junior High School Principal Stockman spends time getting to know the students at her school. She models that students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.
Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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PCA Supports Charities Through Red Ribbon Week
Prattville Kindergarten Partners with Parents
September 30-October 2, Prattville Kindergarten School held its first yearly “Parents as Partners” meetings. Parents were given information about kindergarten reading standards, assessments and how to help their child at home. Games were given to parents to help their students practice skills in a fun way. The parent participation was very encouraging with more than 100 in attendance. This meeting was the first in a series of three parent education sessions. Later sessions will include math standards and how to make a positive transition to first grade. Prattville Doster Center and The Turtle Shell partnered with PKS to make this event happen. The Doster Center allowed for the use of their facilities and The Turtle Shell provided door prizes, sample games and demonstrations for parents.
Prattville Christian Academy elementary students were busy with Red Ribbon Week activities recently. PCA was blessed to be able to support several charitable organizations during the weeklong event that teaches students to think of others and serve as Christ teaches us to serve in the Bible. On Monday, a representative from The Gillespie Senior Citizen Center in Prattville stopped by to receive multiple bags of snacks, paper towels and Kleenex donated by PCA families. Tuesday, The Lion’s Club performed eye screenings, and students and families donated eye glasses that can be recycled for others. On Wednesday, the students brought in money to support Eastern European Missions. Thursday, Asha, a service dog from Canines for Kids, visited the school with his partner, Kristen, and she spoke to the students about a service dog’s life and how people should behave when interacting with one. On Friday, Red Ribbon Week came to an end with a closing ceremony and check presentations to the representatives from the respective charities. PCA donated a total of $1,457 to these organizations. From left are: Asha the service dog with her partner Kristen of Canines for Disabled Kids; Kris Culey with the Gillespie Senior Center; George Walthall Jr. with the Prattville Lions Club; and Ruslan Patten, who spoke on behalf of Eastern European missions and Bridges of Faith.
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Ten years. This month marks the end of my tenth year as Superintendent of the Elmore County School District. This month also marks my transition as the leader of the system to a new adventure at the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE). On January 1, I will report to the ALSDE as Assistant State Superintendent for External Affairs. In that role, I will be working with groups such as the School Superintendents of Alabama (SSA), Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS), and the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB), as well as our state legislature. I will also serve as a liaison with the U.S. Department of Education.
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
The move to ALSDE will be somewhat of a homecoming for me. It is important to note that after serving as a teacher and an administrator in Elmore County for 16 years, I worked as an education specialist with ALSDE from 2001 to December 2004. I took office as superintendent in January 2005. As I write this article, I am filled with bittersweet emotions. While I am thrilled by such an exciting opportunity, my heart is heavy to say goodbye to the opportunity to work on a daily basis with the extraordinary people who populate the Elmore County School System Family—our amazing students, teachers, staff, and administrators. I want to say a special thank you to every one of our employees and the selfless service they provide to the school community each and every day! As I depart, I want to say how proud I am of what we all have been able to accomplish here in Elmore County during the past ten years. I have had the privilege of working with a dedicated team of individu-
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als, and working together, we have been able to restructure our system’s alternative programs, implement a credit recovery program, work with our school board in an ambitious comprehensive construction program, and restructure our curriculum department, thus making significant forward moment in terms of student achievement. We have also been a part of the A+ College Ready Program that directly contributed to phenomenal growth in our Advanced Placement offerings in our schools. Ten years. What an unforgettable and rewarding experience this has been. I extend a big thank you to the citizens of Elmore County and the entire River Region for the opportunity to serve this area on behalf of our most precious asset, our children who are indeed, our future! 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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Elmore County Schools
Millbrook Middle Opens New Entrance
October 15 marked the ceremonial ribbon-cutting for the new entrance to Millbrook Middle School. Approximately two months ago, the Board of Education was able to put a new entrance road into service to help alleviate traffic congestion along the entire length of Chapman Road. Coupled with improvements at the entrance to Stanhope Elmore High School, the work has helped make headway in traffic congestion in the area. With the improvements in place and operating, representatives from the Elmore County Board of Education, the City of Millbrook and the Elmore County Commission came together to reflect on the partnering that made the project a reality. Participating with the elected officials for the ribbon-cutting ceremony were the MMS staff, cheerleaders, pep squad and band.
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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Wetumpka Middle Celebrates Homecoming
The faculty, staff and students from Wetumpka Middle School enjoyed dressing up for Homecoming week. The dress-up days were Superhero Day, Fairy Tale Day, Pink Out Day, Black and Gold Day and Team Spirit Day.
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Airport Road Inducts New Student Council
On November 7, Airport Road Intermediate held an induction ceremony for its newly elected Student Council members. The ceremony was held in the school library with Claire Moore from the Elmore County Board of Education as guest speaker. The students were sworn in to their offices and received T-shirts and medallions. There are 17 representatives from the third-grade classes, and 24 representatives from the fourth-grade classes. Student Council members stay busy serving the school and their community. Members are currently having a canned food drive to raise donations for the Elmore County Food Bank.
Holtville Volleyball Team Advances to Regionals
The Holtville High School volleyball team participated in the Elmore County Area tournament and placed first runner-up, which led the team to advance to regionals. The team is under the leadership of coaches Libby Collier and Amber Hogan. From left are: Jordin Ross, Morgan Cleveland, Haylee Ellis, Erin Spivey, Kelci Davis, Jordan Cantrell, Ashleigh Merritt, D’Maria Matthews, Reagan Ruiz, Megan Wadsworth and Kayla Taylor.
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AUM Homeschool Enrichment Classes
Beat the winter blues by giving your child the chance to learn about a variety of fun and exciting topics offered through AUM Homeschool Enrichment classes! Classes begin on January 22 and topics include: Artistic Expressions Air and Flight Weather Nature Buffs AUM Homeschool Enrichment classes provide learning opportunities for children ages 6-18 that aren’t available in a home setting due to the expense or mess left behind.
Register Today!
Visit ce.aum.edu or call 244-3804 to learn more. 47
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Elmore County Schools
Tallassee Junior Marches in Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade
Millbrook Middle Holds AR ‘Black-Out Party’
Millbrook Middle awarded students who met their Accelerated Reader goals by having a black-out party. With all the lights out in the library, students listened to library assistant Mrs. Pope read a story about “The Red Lady of Huntington College.” Door prizes were also given out.
WMS Crowns Dudley Homecoming Queen Eighth-grader Hannah Dudley was recently crowned as Wetumpka Middle School’s homecoming queen. Dudley is a cheerleader at WMS.
In celebrating the 88th anniversary of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Great American Marching Band (MGAMB) once again marched into Herald Square on November 27. Bailey Mann, a Tallassee High School junior and trombone player, marched in the MGAMB for the second year in a row. Mann was selected based on her musical ability and past achievements. The opportunity was open to students from more than 14,000 high schools across the United States. Since the band was formed in 2006, more than 2,000 students from across the United States have had the opportunity to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as part of the MGAMB. Stepping off from Central Park, Mann and the Band were cheered by 3 million live spectators, before arriving at Macy’s Herald Square for their national performance for more than 50 million TV viewers watching the broadcast live on NBC. Mann participated in this prestigious band with more than 245 students, representing every state. The musicians, under the direction of Dr. Richard Good, Auburn University, and assisted by Barry Houser, University of Illinois, were complemented by approximately 40 flags and dancers. Good is the Director of Bands at Auburn University, while Houser is the assistant director of bands and director of the Marching Illini and Athletic Bands at the University of Illinois. The percussion instructor is Dr. Doug Rosener, who is the associate director of bands at Auburn University. Mann also had the opportunity to attend a leadership/educational workshop while in NY. The workshop focused on leadership and encouraged students to achieve their maximum potential. In addition to marching in the parade, all selected participants’ package plans included meals, lodging, and New York City sightseeing. The Band Hall, TN, supplied the Band’s custom uniforms. Sousaphones were supplied by Jupiter Band Instruments. Marching percussion was supplied by Mapex Drums, a division of Jupiter Instruments, and Sabian provided the cymbals.
Wetumpka Firefighters Visit HIPPY Kids
Eclectic Awards Spelling Bee Winners
The winner of Eclectic Elementary School’s 3rd Grade Spelling Bee was Gracee Stringer. She won in the ninth round with the word forecaster. Geoffrey Dark came in second. The winner of the 4th Grade Bee was Ethan McCormack. He won in round 11 with the word faculty. Clay Green came in second place. Stringer and McCormack, shown above, will both participate in the Elmore County Bee in February. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
On October 22, the Elmore County HIPPY Program enjoyed a fun day at Gold Star Park in Wetumpka. After a picnic lunch and time on the playground, the Wetumpka Fire Department came by with their emergency vehicles and demonstrated for the children how their equipment works. All of the HIPPY children were given coloring books, pencils and stickers. The Elmore County BOE appreciates the Wetumpka FD’s willingness to spend time educating the HIPPY children and their moms about fire safety! HIPPY is a FREE program that teaches parents how to help their 3-, 4- or 5-year-old preschoolers develop the skills needed to have a successful kindergarten year, which results in a strong foundation for education. If you would like information on the HIPPY Program, please contact coordinator MaryAnn Forelle at (334) 567-1200 ext. 24005 or maryann.forelle@elmore. k12.al.us. 48
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Victory Ninth-Graders Attend ‘Encore’ Performance
On October 30, the ninth-grade class from Victory Baptist School attended the Chamber Theatre’s performance of Encore at the Davis Theatre in Montgomery. The students enjoyed seeing great stories from literature come to life on the stage. Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven” and “The Tell-Tale Heart” were real favorites. After the performance, the class ate lunch at Eastdale Mall and ended the day with a trip to Krispy Kreme.
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Emerald Mountain Holds ‘See You at the Pole’
Emerald Mountain Christian School students, parents and faculty participated in “See You at the Pole” held annually for 25 years on the fourth Wednesday of September. This event was in conjunction with other celebrations that were held around the globe. EMCS students from the eighth through tenth grades led prayers for friends, families, churches, schools, military, their communities and country.
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Elmore County Schools
Wetumpka Middle Names Students of the Month
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The following Wetumpka Middle School students were acknowledged as Students of the Month: (Parmer/Pendergast) Mohaganey Ford; (Olsen/Smith/Palmer) Tyshuntiyana “Ty” Mitchell; (Boone/English) Mercedes Gray; (Moore/Darden) Oleg Simonovich; (Brannen/Wright) Aaliyah Gaines; (Sprayberry/Thomas/Garner) Lali Crosby; (7th Grade) Marco “Tony” Gomez and William Moncrief; (8th Grade) Mikayla Johnson, Jadarious Martin Beasley and Johntavious Fitzpatrick.
Tallassee Students Attend Alabama Youth Conference
On October 7, the Eleventh Annual Alabama Youth Council (AYC) was held at the Renaissance Hotel and Spa, Montgomery Performing Arts Center (MPAC) in Montgomery. Nearly 800 teens, including some from Tallassee and all across the state, gathered to promote healthy behaviors among Alabama teens. Special speakers included Patrick George (“I Challenge You”); Brian Earley (“Think2Change”); Tom Robertson (“Talk About It. Break The Silence. Make a Difference.”); and Kyle Scheele (“Story of My Life”), a powerful keynote address. Topics discussed included bullying, teen pregnancy, HIVAIDS, and other adolescent risk behaviors. The trip was coordinated by Southside Middle School guidance counselor Pam Cox.
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Holtville High Band Earns Superior Rating
3D/4D ULTRASOUND
The Holtville High School Green Machine Marching Band earned an overall superior rating at the Southeastern States Marching Festival at Troy University. Also, the school’s drum major, majorettes, and color guard received superior ratings. The band consists of students in grades seven through twelve. Doug Brasell is the band director and Elizabeth Howard is the drum major.
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Eclectic Elementary Names Students of the Month
Recent Students of the Month for Eclectic Elementary School include: Kindergarten- Eden Carpenter, Haleigh Sanford, Amber Kelly, Landon Doucette, *Tyce Maynard, Jordyn Smith and Laura Jones; 1st Grade- Jenna Robertson, Samie Payne, *Charlissa Gibbs, Tyasia Calhoun, Hayden Griffith, Mackenzie Pritchard and Jasmine Ramirez; 2nd Grade- Tyler Woodfin, Chelsie Doron, Eli Pitchford, Gracie Dasher, *Logan Brabham, Danny Wellman and Paisley Williams; 3rd Grade- Maddie Baker, *Jabari Murphy, Trevor Brown, Bethany Davis, Taylor Spear and Lucas Luster; and 4th Grade- Lizzy Harper, Clark Wood, Cameron Headley, Gabe Kelly and Devin Cox. (*Not pictured)
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Airport Road Held Annual Harvest Festival
Airport Road Intermediate held its annual Harvest Festival. Proceeds benefit teachers’ classroom accounts. The Harvest King and Queen winners, shown at right, were Jordan Purter and Olivia Stephens. Costume contest winners were Karley Earl, Maddox Alfultis, Jude White, Maddie Boyer and Roman Boyer.
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Elmore County Schools
Holtville Elementary Honors Veterans
Mrs. Wheeler’s class at Holtville Elementary School made cards for the Montgomery Veterans’ Hospital. The students traced their hands to make the shape of a flag on the outside of the card and included a special note that was written to a veteran on the inside. The students enjoyed making cards for those who have fought for our freedom.
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RES Teacher Wins Casa Napoli Contest
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Redland Elementary first-grade teacher Melanee Erwin was the winner of Casa Napoli’s recent Teacher Appreciation Contest. All ten finalists, including three other teachers from RES (Britney Fureigh - fifth grade; Heather Saxman - first grade; and Patti Smith – kindergarten), were treated to dinner at Casa Napoli to celebrate their outstanding service to our schools and community. Erwin is shown with her son, Miller.
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WHS Receives Donation From 1st Community Bank
First Community Bank of Wetumpka made a recent donation to Wetumpka High School. From left are Sheila Spears, Wetumpka High School Principal Dr. Robbie Slater and Jayne Shell.
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Millbrook Inducts New Golden Key Members
An induction ceremony was held for new members of the Golden Key Club at Millbrook Middle School recently.
EMCS Holds Inaugural Patriot 5k Run/Walk
Runners and walkers gathered on a brisk Saturday morning in November to support the booster club of Emerald Mountain Christian School. The 5k was held at Gold Star Park along the Coosa River in downtown Wetumpka. The inaugural race was a great success and the proceeds will go toward the expanding athletic program. Upcoming projects include the addition of a baseball field and goal posts for varsity football. 53
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Redland Enjoys Fall Festival
GOD HAS A PLAN
Redland Elementary fifth-graders Trevor Lewis, Stone Minnifield and Xavier Harris sang karaoke at the Night In Old Redland fall festival recently. Each teacher, with the help of parent volunteers, set up booths to raise money for their classrooms. Kids had a great time singing, fishing for candy, circling the cake walk, getting their hair painted and winning real goldfish!
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Holtville Junior Civitans Help Area Food Bank
Holtville High School’s Junior Civitans visited the Montgomery Area Food Bank October 14. Lemar McCormick, the Junior Civitan president, presented Mr. Fata a check. The Junior Civitan advisor is Georgette Howard.
WHS Holds AP Celebration Wetumpka High School held an Advanced Placement Celebration October 30 at the school. Students were recognized for qualifying in AP, Spanish Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Beta Club, and National Honor Society. From left are math teacher Delores Payne with students Andy Blackmon and Blake Baker. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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Millbrook Middle Crowns Homecoming King & Queen Millbrook Middle School celebrated its Homecoming recently. Each day had a theme such as Monday, Superhero Day; Tuesday was Twin Day; Wednesday was America Day; Thursday was Homecoming so everyone wore Tie-Dye Homecoming shirts; and Friday was Disney Character Day. Kerenski McGhee and Cedayvia Barley were crowned Homecoming king and queen.
Victory Baptist Competes In Statewide Meet
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Eclectic Student & Pet Win School Contest
Kaeleah Ingram and her husky Ryeleigh were the pet contest winners at the Eclectic Elementary Harvest Festival. Attendees voted on the photos. Ingram and Ryeleigh led the Halloween Costume Parade.
On November 3, Victory Baptist School’s cross country team participated in the ACEA statewide cross country meet at Providence Classical School in Huntsville. The Victory Eagles finished strong with a first-place win for JV Girls team and a third-place win for the JV Boys team. Several individual team members also placed. In the JV girls division, Carlyn Rawls had a firstplace finish, Emily Mumma placed second, and Katie Rhyne placed third. In the JV boys division, three of the runners placed in the top ten: Jacob Fausnight, Carter Byrd and Caleb Palmore.
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Elmore County Schools
Eclectic Holds Pumpkin Contest
Eclectic Elementary second-graders held a pumpkin contest to make pumpkins into a book character. Attendees at the Harvest Festival were able to vote on the pumpkins. First-place winner was Ellie Milam; second-place was Eli McGhee; and thirdplace was Luke Reinert.
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Holtville High Organizes ‘See You at the Pole’ Rally
Students at Holtville High School organized and participated in “See You at the Pole” on September 24 during Holtville’s Homecoming Week. “See You at the Pole” is an event in which students gather at their flagpoles and pray for their school, friends, families, churches, and communities before the beginning of school. It is a day committed to global unity in Christ and prayer for our generation.
Eclectic Holds Drug-Free Week
WMS Sketch Artists Help Solve ‘Crime’
Sketch artists in Mrs. Rose’s class at Wetumpka Middle interviewed a witness and created “Wanted” posters as part of a recent assignment.
Students wore red on kick-off day for Drug-Free Week at Eclectic Elementary. The color red symbolized that they will stay drug-free.
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ARIS Holds Annual Spelling Bees
Holtville Celebrates Red Ribbon Week
Holtville High School celebrated Red Ribbon Week during the week of October 27-31. Students participated in various activities throughout the week, culminating with an assembly with the Department of Corrections. Officers spoke with the students about the importance of staying drug-free and the consequences of being on drugs. The officers also brought two drug dogs and conducted a demonstration. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
Airport Road Intermediate held its spelling bees November 14. From left, third-grade champion was Alayna Tullir and runnerup was Peyton Roberts. Fourth-grade champion was Jude White and runner-up was Savannah James.
WMS Faculty Teams Up Against Drugs
Mrs. Hinton, Wetumpka Middle’s inschool suspension teacher; Mrs. Parmer, fifth-grade teacher; and Mrs. Jackson, principal, “teamed up against drugs” during Red Ribbon Week by sporting their Alabama attire. 56
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Millbrook Middle Holds School Spelling Bees
Millbrook Middle School held its annual Spelling Bees November 14. Winners of the fifthand sixth-grade bee were Emmy Ring, winner, and Ruben Ponce, runner-up (shown below). Winners of the seventh- and eighth-grade bee were Michael Hale, winner, and Malik Bass, runner-up (shown at right).
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Wetumpka Elementary held a character parade for Red Ribbon Week. The theme was “My favorite book character would never do drugs.” Principal Nick Townsend led the parade down the yellow brick road as the cowardly lion. Also shown are Mrs. Hankins, Mr. Reese, WES Assistant Principal Calandra Crenshaw, and Mr. Taylor.
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Wetumpka Elementary Holds Character Parade
Allison Castleberry and Rian Blecher enjoyed Redland Elementary School’s second-grade field trip to Cornfield County Farms. Students raced through the corn and sunflower mazes, zip-lined into a hay bale, slid down into the forest, picked cotton and a pumpkin, and participated in a hayride. There was some educational value too as the students learned about growing and spinning cotton, along with growing and shelling corn.
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Redland Students Visit Cornfield County Farms
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The Name of the Game is Aim
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
There’s an undefinable sense of accomplishment when we hit the goal we’re aiming for. Whether it’s our balled up napkin hitting the wastebasket from across the room (score!) or a Nerf dart acquiring its target with precision, a precisely delivered projectile reaching its destination is the definition of success in the world of aim games. Set your sights on the following recommended items that will train the eye and hand to focus on a target and score a bull’s eye every time!
by Gerry Paige Smith
Flickerz Target Net Set
Rebelle Agent Bow (Nerf/Hasbro)
Adding secret agent flair and fantasy styling to the ancient art of archery, the Rebelle Agent Bow combines legit targeting skills with Nerf’s proven take on soft target firing. This bow comes with three soft foam arrows with a secret hidden in plain sight; the arrows’ design allows customizable messages that can communicate secret intel to their targets who can be equipped with the included decoder. To ensure that the messages (and the missiles) reach their chosen targets the bow also features an electronic red dot sight so shots can line up perfectly. Archery action meets mystery and adventure when the Rebelle Agent Bow takes aim!
(Jungo)
Ideal for all ages, the Flickerz Target Net game challenges players to master the art of flicking lightweight plastic discs into a scored target net. Score sheets are included but style is the real journey as players learn to put their own spin on the Flickerz discs, developing trick shots and disc moves that add more action to the game. The target net is collapsible and the six discs are easily pocketed making the game infinitely portable for gameplay indoors and out. Addictive once you start, kids may have to compete with adults for target practice time once the Flickerz discs come out to play.
Baby Farm Bowling
Marble Aim
Building a solid ground for a child’s aim game, the Baby Farm Bowling set gets the ball rolling for the preschool set. The jingling ‘bowling’ ball is easy to roll toward six brightly colored animal-themed pins that make soft rattling sounds when they topple. The farm animal pins feature flat, weighted bottoms that make setting up the next round a cinch. An early boost for hand-eye coordination, kids can also up their counting game as they take aim at the numbered pins, keeping score along the way. Easy to surface clean and portable with its own carrying bag, Baby Farm Bowling scores a strike for boosting early aim skills.
A historic aim game gets a modern makeover with the Marble Aim carpet from HearthSong. Measuring about two yards long, the nylon carpet runner with a non-skid bottom rolls out the action for marble shooters with bright graphics that open the floor to a variety of games. Played solo or in company, this game comes with 36 marbles (including an aggie and four shooters). Fine motor and aiming skills are honed as players knuckle down and shoot to win. Complete with game instructions the Marble Aim carpet rolls up neatly for storage until the next exciting marble face-off!
(HearthSong)
(EarlyYears)
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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You and your spouse finally agree on a movie you want to see. You find a free weekend night on your calendar. You call up your qualified, reliable, affordable babysitter. Wait…what? Qualified and reliable and affordable? If you’re anything like Lori Huffman, a mother of four, you know “it’s hard to find a good, experienced babysitter who’s old enough to trust and not too expensive.” If, like Lori, the headache of finding a good sitter keeps you from getting out more often, maybe your family could benefit from one of these four types of babysitting exchanges.
The One-on-One Exchange
Trading babysitting with another parent is the simplest type of exchange. You ask a neighbor if your kids can come play while you run to an appointment and then reciprocate when she’s in need. Two stayat-home moms might take turns watching each other’s kids on Tuesdays so each gets a morning to herself. Scheduling date nights becomes easy when you switch babysitting with another couple twice a Montgomery Parents I December 2014
month. Jill Savage, the CEO of Hearts at Home (www.hearts-athome.org), knows two single moms who trade babysitting once a month. One mom keeps the other’s kids from Friday evening to Saturday afternoon, and the next month she takes her break. With a one-on-one exchange, the options are limitless.
The Four-Family Date Swap
Kristen O’Quinn, a mother of three boys, borrowed this idea of a four-family babysitting exchange from a friend at her church. Once a year, four families sit down together and schedule one babysitting night a month in their calendars. The families rotate houses, and two couples stay with the children while the other two enjoy their night of free babysitting. The rules are straightforward: the kids have to be fed before they come, and the parents have to 60
be prompt in picking them up. They follow a simple schedule so that the kids (and parents) know what to expect each time: free play, craft, make a snack, and popcorn and a movie. Without relatives in town, Kristen feels the four families in her exchange are especially committed to the project. This swap could easily be adapted for fewer families or for a group of stay-at-home moms who need babysitting but also want to benefit from time with friends.
The Three-Week Group Exchange
Stephanie Trenaman and her husband, Mason, organized a three-week babysitting exchange for 15 young families at their church last summer. A co-op like the Trenamans’ works best for large groups who prefer using a central www.montgomeryparents.com
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location instead of individual homes. Each couple works one week as sitters and, in exchange, they can use the free babysitting the other two weeks. To organize a similar program, pick three dates and recruit families by e-mail or through an announcement in an organization newsletter. Divide the group into three and ask each committed couple to babysit one of the dates. If you choose to feed the children, get a head count and keep it simple with chicken nuggets or pizza, fruit, and a cookie. Break the time into 30-minute segments and pick fun activities for each block of time: games, free play, storybook time, music, dinner, a short movie, or a craft. Stephanie suggests beginning your evening with high-energy activities and moving into slower-paced activities as bedtime gets closer. A three-week exchange is a great way for a big group of parents to get to know each other and to enjoy some stress-free babysitting.
The Ongoing Babysitting Co-op
Being new to town and having a husband who traveled frequently, Janie Werner feels blessed by the quality, affordable childcare she received during the years she participated in a babysitting coop. In a co-op, parents earn points based on the hours they watch other members’ children, and they redeem points when others babysit for them. Some groups appoint a secretary who keeps track of each member’s hours while others trade co-op coupons or poker chips. Janie feels like geography is a key to success for co-ops: if members live within a well-defined area, they are more likely to use each other’s services. She also suggests capping the babysitting hours that a person can use before working them off so that no one takes advantage of the system. If you are interested in starting your own co-op, visit www.sittingaround.com, a website that helps parents set up and organize their own groups. Why not ask your friends if they’re also looking for alternatives to traditional babysitting? When you swap babysitting with another parent, it’s a win-win situation: your children get to play with their friends, you can have confidence that they are in good hands, and it’s free. With these four types of exchanges in your toolbox, you are well on your way to finding truly reliable and affordable babysitters. mp Sandi Haustein is a freelance writer and a mom of four children. When she and her husband don’t want to pay big bucks for a sitter, they beg their friends to trade babysitting.
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Tips for a Slimmer Appearance It doesn’t matter if you are on a never ending diet or even if you work out every day, our bodies simply change with age. Sometimes my clients call me very discouraged because of their constant body changes. I will be the first to admit I go through them as well. The benefit of what I do and why my clients call me is that I can show them and myself how to embrace those changes simply by changing up their style. Here are just a few tips and articles of clothing that you may have in your wardrobe to help you embrace yourself and your body simply by changing up or adding to your clothing style.
investing a little more money in your favorite shape wear then so be it. Do your research if you are not willing to invest in it and try the knock-off brands, or search sales. I personally love Target’s slimming wear.
Heels or the illusion of heels- I love a heel! We all know the longer our legs look the slimmer our legs look, and that goes for the rest of our body, too. I do understand that not everyone can wear heels so I will give you another option. Pointed toe flats are a great alternative for a more comfortable slimming look. I love a natural or metallic flat for added versatility, or you can have fun with a print. The options are endless. Roll those sleeves up- If you have a jacket or cardigan, just roll the sleeves up. This will give you several illusions based on what you need: height, looking lean, or the definition your body needs.
Focus on your best body partsFocus your style around your best assets.
Invest in shape wear- Yes, this is very important for those problem areas. I don’t care what your body shape is, there are certain parts of our bodies we all struggle with. So make use of these fantastic inventions! Find the most comfortable one for you...if that means Montgomery Parents I December 2014
Wear accessories- When you wear accessories like big sunglasses, scarves, chunky necklaces, a necklace with a drop pendant, or carry a big purse, it helps you appear more proportionate. 62
Wear black, but enjoy a pop of color- I love wearing a lot of black for several reasons, but the one main reason is that it is and can be slimming. To be honest with you, there is nothing wrong with that. Although, from time to time, I do enjoy some color. If you don’t want to wear all black, just try masking your problem areas with the shade. I like to pair my camel boots with my all black attire; this also makes me look long and tall without the need of a heel. Not thrilled with your legs, but love your upper body? Mask them with a well-fitting pair of black pants or a skirt, and add a bright pop of color on top. To hide larger arms or hips, choose a tailored black blazer and show off your bottom half with some brightly colored pants or a skirt. These are just a few tips. It’s so easy to enjoy your body simply by understanding how to dress it. Don’t stress about losing or gaining weight. Enjoy being creative and masking those problem areas that we all deal with simply by using what we have in our closets!
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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Crowds, traffic, inlaws, extra bills to pay - no wonder the holidays stress so many people out. If you are one of these people, you are not alone. According to some reports, up to 90% of all adults become stressed about at least one aspect of the holidays. And the holidays are especially stressful for women, who shoulder the brunt of the scheduling, planning, shopping, and cooking each year. This year can be different. If you are ready to take your mood from stressed to holly-jolly, call on this list of radical advice for grinning all the way through your holidays, rather than grinning and bearing it from midNovember through early January.
1. Take charge. Declare yourself your life’s official cruise director. If you are waiting for others to make you happy - and feeling disappointed or resentful because they don’t try hard enough or try but miss the mark - stop. Make a bucket list for your life of everything you have always wanted to do and start checking off peak moments as soon as possible. Then, when you are done, put the whole family through the bucket-list making process. Two books by author Lara Krupicka, Montgomery Parents I December 2014
Bucket List Living For Moms and Family Bucket Lists, make the bucket list creation process a lively adventure the whole clan can enjoy on a chilly afternoon or evening.
2. Determine your holiday preferences. If you feel like every holiday is already planned out for you by your extended circle of family and friends, you may have never actually considered what you prefer. Choosing not to choose is actually still a choice - but not a very good one. Ask yourself the question, How do I really want to spend my holidays? And then answer it honestly. And be specific, not just vague or reacting against what you don’t want. For example, if you’d rather wake up in a ski lodge on Christmas morning and have someone else serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, so you can hit the slopes with the fam’, so be it! Contemplate what you want - what you really want - so you can share your needs honestly with others.
3. Share your vision with your immediate family. If your family loves you, and I assume they do, then your vision 64
for the holidays matters to them. Even if they don’t share your enthusiasm for Black Friday shopping, Christmas caroling, and marathon tree decorating, everyone should be able to accommodate everyone else in the family. Who knows? Maybe by the time you are done regaling the neighborhood with “Oh, Holy Night” and “Rudolph The Red-nosed Reindeer,” everyone will be shivering and laughing in that ineffable way that makes lifelong memories.
4. Give each immediate family member a chance to chime in. Okay, so you have gotten clear on the ways you enjoy spending the holidays. Now it’s time to encourage the rest of your family to share what they want. Come on now, they tolerated your eccentricities and now it’s your turn to back them up. And yes, you have to attend the sporting event with your son you could probably live without and take your daughter to see The Nutcracker Suite for the umpteenth time. You will also go to the office party with your husband. If these are the things that make the holidays magic for them, who are you to disagree? www.montgomeryparents.com
5. Create your perfect holiday. If you can’t remember the last time you just stayed home for Christmas and unwrapped gifts from under your own tree, then maybe it’s time to simplify your Christmas without feeling like you have to apologize to the entire world. The beauty of taking charge, having personal preferences, and sharing and receiving ideas within the family is that you can now communicate what you all need to your extended family members. Yup, your family is allowed to carve out your traditions and make space to create your memories. Now that you know what they are, it’s your responsibility to follow through as best you can.
6. Communicate without guilt. Give the extended family plenty of time to accept your plans. They don’t have to like them. In fact, you might think they will never speak to you again. But part of being an adult is learning to let other people face their feelings without continually adjusting your needs to fit theirs. Guilt may have been the type of internalized shame that kept you in line in the past, but it’s time to shake off this type of programming and live the life that really makes you happy.
7. Be the change you want to see in your world. Perhaps you have heard the quote, attributed to Mahatma Ghandi, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” But what he may have really said is, “If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change.” In other words, our personal happiness does matter and the way we live does impact the world. So in claiming our joy, we make the world a more positive place, as well. mp Christina Katz is an author, journalist and writing coach who has been working on developing her backbone her whole adult life. Her latest book is The Art Of Making Time For Yourself.
Activate The Power Of Personal Choice Be creative in your decision-making process. Remember that there is no such thing as one right choice for everyone. Choose whatever makes sense for your family. • You could go to a soup kitchen or you could take this year off and make soup at home. • You could fly across the country to see your great aunt and grandmother, or you could take a year off. • You could go to every holiday party you are invited to, or you could confer with the family about each choice first. • You could feel guilty about not visiting your in-laws or you could send a beautiful card and thoughtful gift instead. • You could attend midnight mass or you could create your own spiritual celebrations at home. • You could invite friends and family over for holiday meals or you could just have one potluck for the whole season. • What you choose to do this year does not have to be the new tradition. Try things and see what sticks.
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Montgomery 9th Annual Interfaith Christmas Nativity Exhibit
Experience the beauty of hundreds of nativities, traditional and extraordinary, and listen as community groups perform songs of the season. This wonderful celebration is a gift to the community and provides an opportunity for each of us to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and find spiritual peace during the busy holidays. December 3-5 and Sunday the 7th from 1-8 p.m. and Saturday, December 6th from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.; 3460 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery. Open to all. FREE Admission. Sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; www.MontgomeryNativity.com
17h Annual Lights of Love
Dec. 4th, 6 p.m. For a contribution of $15 or more to the Jackson Hospital Foundation, a light will be placed on the Lights of Love tree inside of Jackson Hospital in front lobby in honor, or in memory, of someone special to you. For contributions of $100 or more Moravian stars will be placed on the tree. For contributions of $500 or more a decorative angel will be placed on the tree. Christian music will be presented. An invitation to the ceremony will be sent to those honored or to the family of those memorialized. Contributions will benefit the Mom & Baby Unit at Jackson Hospital. For more information, call 293.6940.
2014 Capital City Christmas Parade
The City of Montgomery would like to invite you to the 2014 Christmas Parade. The lineup will begin this year at the Capital steps to Fountain. The event will be held Friday, December 19th at 6:15 p.m. A limited number of parade entries will be accepted. Registration deadline for float signup is November 25, 2013. All questions about a parade entry and parade festivities should be directed to Denise Welch at (334) 625.2118 or cgunter@ montgomeryal.gov. Visit www.montgomeryal. gov for entry forms. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
2014 Capital City Governors Tree Lighting
pictures with Santa.Free for members, Cost $15 for children ages 3 and up, which includes a train ride. Age 2 and under are free. For more information please call 240.4900.
“A Christmas Carol” at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival
Candlelight Harpischord Chamber Concert
December 5 at 5:15 p.m. - Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol
Starting November 23-through December 24. The snowy London streets ring with carols that set the stage for Dickens magical tale of hope and redemption. Join us as the ghosts of the pasts, present and future reawaken Scrooge’s conscience. A great family outing to brighten your holiday. Recommended for children ages 6+ and up. Prices starting at $24. Please visit us at www.asf.net.
A Montgomery Family Christmas with Steven Curtis Chapman
December 2 at 7 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Steven Curtis Chapman will be joined by Brandon Heath and special guest Jillian Edwards. This event benefits Baptist Hospice. Tickets: $25 to $35. Tickets can be purchased online or at the MPAC Box Office.
Aldersgate UMC Christmas Events
6610 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Sunday, November 30, 11 a.m, Chrismon Service. Sunday, December 7, 11:00 a.m. Christmas Song Musical Drama. Sunday, December 14, 4:00 p.m., Festival of Lessons and Carols Choirs Concert. Call for reservations. Wednesday, December 24, 4 and 6 p.m. Christmas Eve Service Communion, Carols Candlelight and Communion. Special music is my String Ensemble and Soloist. For more information call the Aldersgate music ministry office at (334) 272.6152.
Annual Holiday Light Festival The Montgomery Zoo
December 4-7, 11-14, 18-31; 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. Thousands of Christmas Lights illuminate The Montgomery Zoo in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. See the beautiful displays by train or by foot. Enjoy live entertainment, food, gifts and 66
Wednesday, December 11; 6 p.m. Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Rd. You are invited to Christchurch’s free concert of sacred and secular music. The 45 minute performance will feature instrumental and vocal pieces performed by the church’s chancel choir and soloists from the church as well as outside professionals. The free concert in the church’s sanctuary will begin at 6 p.m. It will be followed by a champagne and dessert reception in the parish hall. Reception tickets, which are $25 each, will be available by calling (334) 387.0566, ext. 203, beginning Wednesday, November 13th. Proceeds from the reception will benefit the Christchurch Pipe Organ Fund. Please visit www.christchurchxp.net for more details.
Christmas Open House
December 1-31 from 1-5 p.m., Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, 919 Felder Avenue. Join us for refreshments, video and tour of period decorations. Donations requested. Call 264.4222. Visit us at www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net.
Cruising With Santa
December 5-6, 12-13, 19--20 Family Friendly; Boards at 6:30 p.m., Cruises 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., $20-$45 per adult & $15-$25 per child. This cruise will include dinner, entertainment and Santa!! Cash Bar. Please visit us at http://www.montgomeryal.gov
Cottage Hill Candlelight Tour
Celebrate the Year of Small Towns and Downtown during Cottage Hill Historic Foundation Tour of Victorian. December 14, 2-6 p.m.; Starting location: Starting at 556 Clay Street, Montgomery. Admission charged- call for ticket information. Tickets are $10. (334) 538.3892. Please visit us at www.cottage-hill. org for more information. www.montgomeryparents.com
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10th Annual presented by Landmarks Foundation. Friday, December 5 at the Ware-Farley-Hood House For Dads and Daughters grades 6 and under. $100 per couple. Black tie optional and refreshments provided. RSVP at 240.4500 or marketing@ oldalabamatown.com.
Eastdale Mall Christmas Events
Holiday Portraits with Santa Through Christmas Eve Ho, Ho, Ho – Santa Claus is coming to Eastdale Mall starting on November 14! Eastdale Mall has the perfect place to pose for photos with Santa and to share your holiday wish list. So pack up the little ones and head on out to Eastdale Mall to share all the joy of the holidays. Visit Santa at your convenience on Monday - Friday from 10 - 9p.m. and Sundays 1 - 6pm. No appointment necessary! Share your holiday wishes with Santa and purchase great photo packages and other holiday merchandise. Please click here for packages & pricing. Presented by Hagood Photography. Breakfast with Santa Benefiting Child Protect Saturday, December 13, 9:00 a.m. Santa always starts his day off with a good breakfast, and this year Eastdale Mall invites you to join him! Breakfast sponsored by Cinnabon is $5 per child and all proceeds will go to Child Protect. After breakfast, each guest will get to decorate cookies from the Great American Cookies and make ornaments with the Eastdale Mall Teen Team and the Child Protect Junior Executive Board. Seating is limited, so purchase your tickets
in advance at the Eastdale Mall Customer Service Centre. For more information, or to make reservations, please email Suzanna.wasserman@ aronov.com Pet Photos with Santa December 2, 4, 9, 11, 16. 18, 24; 5 – 9 p.m. Pets love Santa too- so again this year Eastdale Mall will offer Pet Photo Nights with Santa every Tuesday and Thursday night. Pet owners can bring the four legged members of their family for photos with Santa beginning on Tuesday, November 18 through Tuesday, December 23 from 5 - 9 p.m. Pet Photo Nights are for domestic pets only and shoppers with pets are asked to use the Sears Entrance. All pets must be on a leash or in a carrier and should be generally friendly around people. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets as well as for their behavior while on Eastdale Mall property. Sip, Shop & Stroll Ladies Night Out Sponsored by Belk Thursday, December 18, 6 – 8 p.m. Grab your girlfriends and head over to Eastdale Mall for a night of shopping, fun and giveaways! Shoppers can enjoy light refreshments sponsored by Great American Cookies and Cinnabon and register to win one of three Michael Kors handbags! www.eastdale-mall.com PJ Party with Santa Saturday, December 20, 6 – 8 p.m. Join Mrs. Claus and DJ Ziggy for this free holiday party, complete with milk & cookies. Santa will make a special appearance to read a story to the children, and lead them in a few of his favorite songs. Afterwards, head on over to Santa’s Village for a keepsake photo! www.eastdale-mall.com
Eastern Hills Baptist Church presents 10th Annual “Hanging of the Green”
Sunday, December 7 from 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Come help us ring in the Christmas season celebrating the hope found in the Christ Child! Also featuring: Youth Choirs, Drama, Celebration Ringers (hand bells), Ensemble, Narration, Interpretive Movement, Visual Arts and more. Come early for a good seat – No admission charge. Eastern Hills Baptist Church, 3604 Pleasant Ridge Road, Montgomery, AL (in the Forest Hills neighborhood) (334) 272.0604 ext. 214 or visit us online, www.ehbconline.com
Frazer Memorial UMC presents “Listen It’s Christmas”
Wesley Hall, December 13 and 14 at 7 p.m. Frazer presents this community wide production, Christmas Theatre. Fun for the entire family! Please call (334) 272.8622 or visit www.frazerumc.org. Frazer Memorial United Methodist “Candlelight Worship” December 24 , 5 p.m. in Sanctuary and 7 p.m. in Wesley Hall. “The Longest Night Service” December 21 at 7 p.m. in the East Sanctuary. A special service for those who are experiencing a loss, grieving or lonely.
Glenn Miller Holiday Concert featuring Airmen of Note
Tentatively set for December 4 & 5. Annual Glenn Miller Holiday Concert. This year’s performance is free to the public. Will be accepting canned food donations for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. This performance will be held at the Davis Theatre. Featuring The United States
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Air force Band, Airmen of Note, premier jazz ensemble, will perform holiday and Glenn Miller favorites. The Airmen of Note ensemble was created in 1950 to carry on the style and tradition of the Glenn Miller Army Air Forces Dance Band. Please call 241.9567.
evening of everyone’s seasonal favorites. Will feature celebrated Baritone Michael Hicks. To order tickets please call the Symphony office at (334) 240.4004.
Governor’s Mansion Christmas Open House Tours
Share some holiday cheer at Huntingdon College’s annual Community Christmas Celebration Thursday, December 4th, on the Huntingdon Campus. The celebration includes: 6:30 p.m., the Arrival of Saint Nicholas, in front of Flowers Hall 6:45 p.m., Tree-lighting Ceremony and caroling, in front of Flowers Hall; and 7:00 p.m., A Service of Lessons and Carols, combining Biblical readings by members of the Huntingdon community interspersed with music from the College’s Concert Choir; Ligon Chapel, Flower’s Hall The events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Huntingdon College Office of Community Relations at (334) 833.4515.
1142 South Perry Street, Montgomery, 834.3022 The 1907 Governor’s Mansion will be aglow with lights and filled with the spirit of the season. December 1,8, and 15 from 5:30 until 7:30. 1142 South Perry Street, Montgomery.
It’s a Wonderful Life – The Radio Play
Cloverdale Playhouse, Montgomery’s Community Theater; December 11th-21st. Adapted by Joe Landry from the screenplay by Frank Capra, Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, and Johanna Sperling. One of the most popular American films of all-time and a perennial holiday favorite, It’s a Wonderful Life is the story of an angel who helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed. Directed by Greg Thornton. Please call the box office (334) 262-1530 or boxoffice@cloverdaleplayhouse.org
Holiday Open House
@ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts December 6th, 1 to 4 p.m.; The festivities for the event include musical performances by local school choirs and performance groups, holiday art projects, cookies and lemonade, and horse and carriage rides in the park. Holiday Open House is free and open to the public, so invite your friends and family and spend the afternoon at MFA celebrating the season.
Holiday Pops Concert
December 15th, 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Join the MSO for an
Huntingdon Offers Annual Christmas Celebration
Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis
December 6th; 5k Run or Walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation Also 1 mile fun run (chasing an Elf) for under 8’s and 1 mile walk for those of us who want to support the Arthritis Foundation. Please visit http://JBRMontgomery.kintera.org/.
Old Alabama Town Open House
December 4th, 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Enjoy the holidays, early-Alabama style! Live holiday music, traditional pioneer crafts for children, storytelling & costumed guests, cookies and hot cider. Please call (334) 240.4500 or www.oldalabamatown.com for more information.
Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church’s Annual Christmas Production December 13 at 4 p.m. Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church, 1550 East Washington St., will host its Annual Christmas Production, by
the Youth Dept. Join them as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Call (334) 462.3048.
First Baptist presents The Living Christmas Tree
First Baptist Church, 305 South Perry Street December 12-14. Come joins us for the “Living Christmas Tree”. Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage. Please call (334) 834.6310 or visit us at www.montgomeryfbc.org.
“The Nutcracker”
Montgomery’s Favorite Holiday Tradition for over 38 years presented by The Montgomery Ballet. The world’s most famous Christmas ballet. A Montgomery tradition since 1976, this year’s production promises to delight all ages with brilliant dancing, beautiful scenery, and colorful costumes. Come celebrate the holiday season with the Montgomery Ballet as they present this Christmas classic with evening performances at 7:30 pm, December 19th and December 20th, and matinees at 2 p.m., December 20th and 21st. All reserved seats. Tickets are $10 to $30 for adults. We offer military, senior and student discounts. Prices are dependent on convenience and/ or handling fees. For reservations, call (334) 409.0522 or visit www.montgomeryballet.org
The Shoppes at EastChase
Photos with Santa: Have your picture taken with Santa! Starting Saturday, November 15, you may stop by Santa’s Workshop on Main Street to visit Santa. Kids can enjoy the excitement of being in Santa’s workshop while getting their picture taken with Santa. Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Starting November 15) Sundays from 1 – 6 p.m. (Starting November 16) Friday, December 12 from 5 – 8 p.m. *Pet Night Monday, December 22 & Tuesday, December 23 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 24 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
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Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, December 13 & 20, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Kids can enjoy breakfast with Santa at Panera Bread at The Shoppes at EastChase. $10 will include visits with Santa, breakfast and photos. Participants must register by December 11. Reservations must be made through the The Shoppes at EastChase Guest Services Office. Call 334279-6046 to reserve your spot! Baking Cookies with Santa: Saturday, December 6, 8:30-10:00 a.m. Kids can enjoy baking yummy treats with Santa at WilliamsSonoma at The Shoppes at EastChase on Saturday, December 6! The baking fun will be $10 and participants must register by December 3. Reservations must be made through the The Shoppes at EastChase Guest Services Office. Call 334-279-6046 to reserve your spot! Carriage Rides: (next to Earth Fare Organic Grocer) Shoppers can enjoy holiday carriage rides through The Shoppes at EastChase Saturday, December 13 & 20, from 5 - 7 p.m. Carriages rides will be $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Take a ride around EastChase and enjoy the beautiful holiday sights and sounds. Money collected will be donated to support the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. For more information call 334-279-6046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com.
“Tis the Season!” at the W.A. Gayle Planetarium
Planetarium Beginning December - This great traces the development of many of the world’s endearing holiday customs, and how they involve lighting up the winter season, from the burning Yule log and sparkling Christmas tree lights, to the lighting of the Menorah and luminaries. It also recounts the historical religious and cultural rituals practiced during the time of winter solstice. Not only Christian and Jewish, but also Celtic, Pagan, Nordic, Roman, Egyptian and Hopi. It also takes a look at some of our more light-hearted seasonal traditions: from gift-giving and kissing under the mistletoe to songs about lords a-leaping, and ladies dancing. And the custom of decking the halls with greenery and candles. St. Nicholas, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas, and Santa Claus all drop by as well. For tickets, call (334)241.4799. Or visit http://montgomery.troy.edu/planetarium for details.
Just for Kids YMCA Camp Chandler Holiday Camps
1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, Alabama Christmas Camp Dec. 21st - Dec 23rd arriving on Dec 21st at 4-5 p.m. and departing Dec. 23rd at 4-5 p.m. This adventure is for old and new campers (ages 5-15), old and new staff, friends and relatives. Fee: $100 (members) and $115 (non-members), which includes t-shirt and camp store. Call Jeff Reynolds at 229.0031.
New Years Eve Bash @ Camp Chandler Dec. 31st - Jan 1st, arriving Dec. 31st at 3 - 4 p.m. and departing Jan 1st at 10-11 a.m. Celebrate New Year’s Eve Camp Chandler style with “ball drop,” dance, and fireworks. Ages 5 - 15. Parents, let us take care of your children’s fun,
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Eclectic
for this year’s parade is “A Winter Wonderland” Christmas”. Activities will be from 1:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Vendors will be set up at Village Green Park; there will be arts, crafts, and food. This is one of the great things about living in a small community - family fun, not too crowded and loads of excitement for everyone. No admission fee. Call (334) 285.7232.
Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas
Prattville
so you can celebrate the New Year together. Fee: $40 for members and $50 for non-members.. Call Jeff Reynolds at 229.0031 or log on to www. campchandler.org for more information on all camps.
December 2-7, Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. This event will take place at 1455 Claud Road, just south of Eclectic on AL Highway 63. Please call 578.4846 or visit our website at www. aneclecticministry.org. If registering through the website, your reservation will be confirmed as soon as possible. Admission is free, and donations are accepted and appreciated to help with expenses.
Millbrook Christmas Music and Tree Lighting
Millbrook Village Green Stage, December 4 at 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., Performances by school, church and group choirs and Christmas caroling for everyone.
The Spirit of Christmas Parade
Dec 6th, Parade is at 2 p.m. Millbrook’s Annual Christmas Parade will begin at the Sports Complex behind Smokehouse Bar-B-Que and will end at the intersection at City Hall. The theme
Annual Christmas Concert by Prattville Community Chorus and Prattville Pops
Friday, December 12, 7 p.m. at the Doster Center. This event is free and open to the public.
Children’s Art Workshop
Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 – 3 p.m. All workshops will be held at the Creative Arts Center (beside the PPD) The Holiday Art Season will open with this annual free Children’s Art Workshop. Children will be able to create a piece of artwork to keep or to give as a gift to family or friends. This workshop is Free, but space is limited and reservations are required. To register or for more information, please contact the special events office at (334) 595.0854.
City of Prattville Christmas Parade
Monday, December 1st at 7 p.m. Parade will begin that the Autauga County Courthouse. Theme: “A Christmas Carol”; Lots of floats, dancers, horses, candy and trinkets for everyone. This is a free, family friendly event. Applications available online at www.prattvilleal.gov. Deadline
to register is November 25. Please call 595.0854 for more information.
East Memorial presents The Hope of Christmas
featuring the Living Nativity in song and drama December 13th-14th, at 6 p.m. East Memorial Baptist Church, 1320 Old Ridge Road, invites the Public to experience The Hope of Christmas featuring the Living Nativity in song and drama. Admission is free. For more information contact the church office at (334) 365.7500 or visit our website at www.eastmemorial.org.
The Grinch Ballet
“The Grinch Ballet” is about an odd green recluse of an unknown species who resides on a mountaintop overlooking the cheerful, sunny town of Whoville as it prepares for the Christmas season in anticipation. In bitter contempt towards the season, the Grinch plots against the upcoming holiday and decides to ruin it for the Whos by disguising as Santa Claus and riding around in a sled drawn by his pet dog Max, robbing each family of any wrapped gifts on Christmas Eve. His heart is touched by the little Cindy Lou’s innocence and the true meaning of the season; the Grinch repents by returning all of the stolen presents to the Whos and partaking in the traditions of the holiday season. This Dr. Suess story is brought to life by members of the Prattville Ballet and students of C.J.’s Dance Factory on Saturday, December 6th at the Jeff State Performing Arts Center at 7:00 p.m. For ticket information, (group rates available) For more information please call (334) 467.8603.
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Tallassee Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec. 5 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall
Holiday Market
December 5 from noon until 6:30 p.m. and December 6 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Veteran’s Park in front of City Hall.
Holiday Parade
The parade will be Dec. 6th at 10 a.m. Begins at Tallassee Church of Christ and goes thru Central Blvd down to Barnette Blvd. and end at Tallassee High School. For more information please call (334) 283.5151.
Lake Martin/ Alexander City Christmas Market
Saturday, December 6, 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Children’s Harbor, Children’s Harbor Lodge Conference Center, Lake Martin. The 9th annual event to raise funds for Children’s Harbor is a chance to add some fun to your Christmas shopping. Admission is free. A variety of items will be available such as hand poured candles, mirror art, jewelry, pottery, hand beaded bags, art works, luggage and more. We will have breakfast and lunch food for sale and a bake sale. To find us from Wetumpka take Highways 231N and then 14 to 170 then left on 163. For further information, please call (334) 857.2021.
Hometown Christmas Parade
One of East Alabama’s largest parades featuring elaborate floats, dancing groups, marching bands, horse-riding clubs and Santa Claus highlight. December 1; 6-7 p.m. Downtown Alexander City.
Santa and Tree Lighting
Help us welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus to Alexander City-December 1 from 4:30 until 5:30 p.m. - just in time for the Christmas Parade. Free event, Downtown at the Bud Porch Center Alexander City. 1-4:30 p.m. (256) 329.9227. www.alexandercity.org
Wetumpka ARRAC Christmas Faire
November 8h – December 21st, Thursday thru Friday and Sunday from noon until 2 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Arts Center (300 Tallassee St., Wetumpka, AL). The Arts Center Lobby and Hall will be filled with trees and tables to display quality local hand made gifts and decorations. For more information call 334-300-9394, leave a message at the center by calling (334) 578.9485 or email artistdirector@arrac.org
City of Wetumpka Tree Lighting
December 2nd, in Gold Star Park. Photos with Santa and hot cocoa. Visit www.cityofwetumpka.com for more information. 71
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Wetumpka “An Evening in December” December 4th at 7 p.m. Two gospel bands- The Nelons and The LeFevre Quartet. Please call for ticket Wetumpka City Hall for ticket information. Wetumpka Nativity and Luminary Open House December 5th, Downtown Wetumpka from 6:30 until 8 p.m. Please visit www.cityofwetumpka.com Wetumpka Christmas Decoration Contest December 9th; 6:00 p.m. Businesses and residential. There will be judging to those who have submitted applications. Prizes will be awarded.
Christmas on the Coosa
December 13: Character Pancake Breakfast from 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. Characters work around the room and sing. Great family event. Christmas extravaganza with arts and crafts, parade, food, quilt show, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. Gold Star Park & the Courthouse Veranda, Wetumpka. Booths will begin selling at 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Fireworks immediately following Boat Parade at 5 p.m. Call (334) 567.1313 or (334) 567.4811. www.wetumpkachamber.com.
“Eggnog and Fruitcake: A Tacky Christmas Sweater Extravaganza!” at the Wetumpka Depot
Depot Executive Director Kristy Meanor is excited about the Depot’s first holiday show for adults. “The original script takes a humorous and nostalgic look at holidays and especially the traditions here in the Deep South. Some of the stories were even contributed by the actors in the show – and the music ranges from holiday classics to an original lament on the three most dreaded words in the English Language – Some Assembly Required!” Audiences are invited to play along and wear their tackiest Christmas sweater for a chance to win some special prizes during each performance. Eggnog and Fruitcake performances are December 11, 12, 18 at 7:30pm and Decem-
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ber 14 at 2pm. Tickets may be purchased by calling the box office at 334.868.1440 or online at wetumpkadepot.com. The Depot Theatre is located at 300 S. Main Street in the heart of historic downtown Wetumpka.
New Year’s Eve Ball
Victorian Christmas Sample turn-of-the-century desserts, sip hot chocolate or mulled cider and try your hand at making traditional Christmas decorations. December 14th; 1:00-4:00p.m. (334) 794.3452. www.landmarkpark.com. Free.
December 31st from 7 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Tickets required. Tickets can be purchased at the City Administrative Building. Please call 567.1384.
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“A Very Second Samuel Christmas” At the Wetumpka Depot
Santa rides the train with you! Tell him what you would like for Christmas as he poses for photos. Each child will receive a Christmas gift! November 29th, December 6th, 13th, & 20th. For tickets and info call (800) 943.4490 or order online at www.hodrrm.org.
Wetumpka, AL- The Christmas sequel to the beloved play “Second Samuel”. The familiar residence of Second Samuel, GA light the way for a Christmas miracle. December 15-16 at 7:30 and December 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets will sell for $16 by calling box office. Tickets can be purchased by calling 334-868-1440 or online at wetumpkadepot.com. The Depot Theatre is located at 300 S. Main Street in the heart of historic downtown Wetumpka.
Eufaula/Dothan Eufaula Christmas Tour of Homes Stroll through history and witness the magnificence of Eufaula’s finest homes all aglow in holiday splendor. Enjoy a seated luncheon or an elegant dinner at the grand historical Shorter Mansion. Begins December 6th. Visit www.eufaulapilgrimage.com.
The Nutcracker Southeast Alabama Dance Company presents its 36th annual performance of this holiday classic. Watch as snowflakes dance, flowers waltz, dolls come to life and the Nutcracker turns into a charming prince. December 5-7; Dothan Civic Center; (334) 702.7139 www. southeastalabamadancecompany.org Admission charged.
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Santa Claus Special Train Ride at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
North Pole Express Train Rides at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Fridays, Nov. 21, 28, December 5,12 and 19 Saturdays, Nov. 22, 29, December 6, 13, and 20 Sundays, Nov. 23, 30, and Dec. 7 and 14 Please visit our website www.hodrrm.org for times. “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your journey begins. Through the dark night, the magical train speeds to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves board the train to visit with everyone, so be sure to bring your camera! Enjoy chocolate milk and cookies and sing Christmas carols along with the live musician, Mr. Jim. Listen to a special Christmas story and receive a Christmas gift.
Out of State / Georgia Annual Fantasy In Lights
The most spectacular holiday light and sound show in the south begins November 21- December 30! Nestled amidst wooded landscape of Callaway Gardens, Fantasy In Lights is the Southeast’s most spectacular holiday light
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and sound show with more than eight million twinkling lights celebrating the holiday season. This spectacular show has attracted almost two million visitors since it opened in 1992. With more than a dozen larger-thanlife lighted scenes, Fantasy In Lights remains unique in that its scenes are custom-designed especially for Callaway Gardens–to celebrate not only the joy of the season but the wonder of nature in this idyllic setting. Drive your car or ride the Jolly Trolley to experience scenes like March of the Toy Soldiers and Snowflake Valley. At Robin Lake Beach, enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Nativity’, light and sound shows enticing passers-by to stop, reflect and enjoy. Sunday, November 23, the annual March of Dimes Walk – one night each year is reserved for walkers only to hike the winter wonderland of Fantasy In Lights. No vehicles allowed! For tickets please visit www. callawaygardens.com.
A Cantus Christmas
December 22, 7:30pm. Columbus, Ga. This regularly sold-out tradition tells the Christmas story with musical masterpieces and audience carols. The professional chorus Cantus Columbus presents the eleventh installment of Message of the Season—Music of the Masters in Legacy Hall. www.rivercenter.org
Atlanta New Year’s Eve Festival
December 31; Peachtree Street, Downtown Atlanta Georgia. This Block Party for Thousands offers live Musical Performances by local artists
and musicians, as well as a midnight Fireworks Spectacular. Tickets are available at a variety of local sources. Stay downtown and enjoy the festivities at Underground Atlanta ... enjoy the ‘official’ Peach Drop at midnight - followed by a really awesome New Year’s fireworks display, with live performances..
A Tuna Christmas
December 11-13, 18-23 at 7:30 p.m. at Foley Hall, Columbus, Ga. Christmas returns to Texas’ third smallest town. Everybody’s frantic about the annual yard display contest, which Vera Carp hopes to win for the 15th year in a row. She faces the competition from Didi Snavely – the proprietress of Didi’s Used weapons – and Inita Goodwin and Helen Bedd – the cowboyloving Tastee Kreme waitresses. Again, the entries are threatened by the Christmas Phantom. The whole town suspects juvenile delinquent Stanley Bumiller. Aunt Pearl knows better but she ain’t talking’. Columbus’ biggest hit turns 10 years old! For tickets please visit www.springeroperahouse.org.
Magical Nights of Lights
November 21-December 31; nightly 5:0010:00pm. Rekindle an old tradition or create a new one at Lake Lanier Islands Resort’s Magical Nights of Lights holiday celebration. A seven-mile drive through tour of animated, festive, holiday light displays. At the end of your tour, the Holiday Village awaits you with carnival rides and games, pony rides and numerous holiday treats. Warm up with a hot cup
of cocoa or step inside Santa’s Workshop for some holiday shopping and a visit with Santa. And nothing gets you in the holiday spirit like a visit to Legacy Lodge & Conference Center for a delectable Magical Nights of Lights dinner buffet, or stay the night so the kids can enjoy the time honored tradition of having Breakfast with Santa. www.lakelanierislands.com
Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain
Snow Mountain is Atlanta’s first snow park! The 2014/2015 season opens November 22, 2014 – February 22, 2015. Atlanta’s Stone Mountain Park transforms into a winter wonderland with Snow Mountain. Bundle your family up and get ready for snow tubing, snowballs, snowmen and snow angels. Based at Stone Mountain Park’s famous Laser Lawn, Snow Mountain keeps your entire family busy for hours. A 400’ foot tubing hill and a snow play area filled with a blizzard of snow activities make Snow Mountain Atlanta’s not-to-be-missed winter attraction. There’s even a play zone reserved for your littlest snow bunnies. Snow Mountain’s state-of-the-art snow-making magic guarantees you tons of fresh snow daily. And with two Mountain SnoLifts to get you up the tubing hill, you’ll want to go again and again! www. stonemountainpark.com
Stone Mountain Christmas
November 8-January 4. There is nothing like the Christmas season that magically transforms Stone Mountain Park into a land of enchantment. Within the glow of more than two million
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twinkling lights, you can watch live entertainment, engage in fun attractions and reconnect with friends and family during this special time of year. Make a Stone Mountain Christmas a part of your holiday tradition. Events include Wonderland Walkway, Snow Angel Castle, Holly Jolly Cabaret, The Polar Express 4D Experience, Snow Angel Fireworks and Snowfall Celebration, Sleigh Ride, Simply Christmas, Christmas Parade, Visit with Santa Claus, storytelling and live shows, great food and holiday shopping! For details and tickets, visit the website at www.stonemountainpark.com.
Birmingham and North Alabama Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker” With its tenth annual performance of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™, Alabama Ballet remains one of only seven companies in the world currently licensed to present this holiday classic. All performed to Balanchine’s brilliant specifications; dazzling choreography, opulent costumes, and extravagant sets make this production unlike any other. The addition of a community cast of children from the area make this performance truly magical. Join us December 12-14 and 19-21 at the Samford Wright Center for this joyous spectacle. In addition to the Birmingham performances, Alabama Ballet will also tour to Anniston, AL. Balanchine’s Nutcracker™
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is more than a performance; it is a holiday tradition you and your family do not want to miss. (205) 322.4300. www.alabamaballet. org. Admission charged. Samford University Wright Center.
Breakfast in Santa’s Workshop at the McWane Science Center Two dates to choose from: December 13 or 20; 8:30am until 10:00 a.m.. Bring your little elves to have breakfast in Santa’s Workshop. Decorate gingerbread houses, have breakfast together, explore the Winter Wonderland exhibit and visit with Santa! Be sure to bring your camera! Ticket includes admission to the museum, breakfast, activities and visit with Santa! Reservations are required. Call (205) 714.8414. Cost: $20 Adults, $15 Kids for non-members and $15 adults and $10 kids for members. www.mcwane.org
Christmas Craft Show Gardendale Civic Center hosts the Christmas Craft Show with over 60 booths. Only handmade, hand crafted items. Pictures with Santa too! November 14-15; (205) 683.0354. www. northartscouncil.webs.com. Free.
Christmas Light Show DeSoto Caverns November 1-January 1. This special light show celebrates the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and is shown on every caverns tour. www.desotocavernspark.com.
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McWane Science Center ‘Magic of Model Trains Exhibit’
The holidays are picking up steam at McWane Science Center with the return of the Magic of Model Trains exhibit, November 22- January 11. Discover trains of every shape and size inside this popular exhibit which features over a dozen different train displays. Sets include several tiny trains that are built to scale with surrounding cities and scenes including the LG&W that depicts central Alabama in the 1950’s. Every set in the exhibit is designed to scale with the size of the trains. The meticulous detail of the scenery including covered bridges, downtown storefronts and of course, several train stations will keep your family entertained for hours! www.mcwane.org
Winter Wonderland! at McWane Science Center
Brrrr! When the weather outside is frightful, McWane is so delightful! November 22-January 11; Come inside the museum this holiday season and let your imagination be your guide through the new Winter Wonderland exhibits where snowflakes glisten above your head and toy trains zip around the tracks. Inside this holiday exhibit, wonder is in the air as children explore the snow room where everyday they can touch the “almost” snow! Kids’ laughter can be heard as they try to catch fish through the ice. Brave winter wonder seekers can even sled down a giant snow hill between the third and second floors in the museum. Then, skate around the ice pond in your slippery socks. www.mcwane.org mp
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IT’S CHRISTMAS! Discover anew that love is born when you listen.
7PM December 13 & 14 FRAZER UMC WESLEY HALL • A musical drama that will bring the whole family into the holiday spirit, as the Christmas story is told through a journey of tears and laughter. Free and open to everyone.
MORE CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Frazer Church: find hope, Follow Jesus • Sunday worship 8, 9:30 & 11AM 6000 atlanta Hwy. Montgomery • frazerumc.org • 334.272.8622 •75
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A Page in a Book Sleepy Selections for Bedtime While anytime is a good moment to read-aloud with our kids, most of us tend to make their bedtime our default reading window. The work of the day is behind us, our distractions are minimized, and cuddled up in bed is always a great setting for reading. And while starting off the bedtime reading with some exciting titles is fun, having a drowsy book to close out the night is also a smart move. Books about sleeping signal the approaching lights out and offer peaceful themes that children can carry with them as their heads hit the pillow. The following titles are somnolent beauties that will waft the widest eyes to sleep in short order.
Sleepyheads
by Sandra J. Howatt, Illustrated by Joyce Wan (Simon & Schuster) Children are not alone in their adorable repose as they sleep. The animal kingdom is full of critters whose cute factor launches off the charts when they settle in for the night. Sleepyheads gently parades images of sleeping creatures rendered in their habitats against the soft darkness of night. Simple text introduces each animal cuddled into its favorite sleeping spot with encouragement for readers to find and observe them as they snooze. Gently illuminated with fireflies and hazy moonlight, this is an ideal transition from the last light of the evening to the peaceful darkness that joins us at bedtime.
Snoozefest
by Samantha Berger, Illustrated by Kristyna Litten (Dial/Penguin) For Cuddleford Snugglebun, a slow-moving sloth and champion sleeper, Snoozefest is her destination event of the year. Celebrating all the best parts of bedtime and sleeping, Cuddleford prepares to join an army of her fellow snooze fans for the sleepiest show around. Everyone brings their favorite blankets, bedtime books and cuddles. Live bands like ‘Chamomile Rage’ and ‘The Nocturnal Nesters’ take the stage just after the pajama parade. There’s not a wide eye in the house as drowsy rules the night at Snoozefest. Rhyming text and softly lined illustrations are just the ticket for this book that celebrates everything and everyone who enjoys falling asleep!
Time to Sleep
by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Some children love to learn new things with every book they read. For those young facthounds, Time to Sleep is an ideal bedtime book that combines interesting facts about animals’ sleep habits with gorgeous illustrations. An enormous title that covers two laps when opened, the paper collage images are stark and lovely. From the sleepy bee to the drowsy giraffe, the featured animals each reveal a unique or unusual way that they get their sleep. There are additional interesting facts on each creature included in the back of the title for daytime follow-up reading. Filled with nuggets of information on snoozing creatures, it’s the perfect book bridge between educational reading and dreamy musing before sleep.
Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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©2013 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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A unique method with benefits for today, and for life. At Kumon, we personalize our math and reading programs to fit the skill level of each child. That way, children at all levels can grasp any concept on their own and take full ownership of their success. With success comes confidence that can last a lifetime. That’s learning for the long run.
Schedule your free placement test now at these locations Kumon Math & Reading Center of Montgomery - Central 1655 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36106
334.279.1400 • kumon.com/montgomery-central Kumon Math & Reading Center of Montgomery - Southeast Peppertree Shopping Center 8125 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116
334.649.1178 • kumon.com/montgomery-southeast
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Th If you are parenting a behaviorally challenged child—one who is highly inflexible, defiant, and in trouble much of the time—then you may be all too familiar with the confusion, anger, guilt, and shame that go with the territory. Challenging kids make life significantly more difficult for their families, teachers, and others with whom they interact. They are often poor problem solvers with rigid interpersonal styles. They may have meltdowns and explosive episodes a few times a week or dozens of times daily. But there is help—and hope. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
Snapshot of the Challenging Child Because of the variety of symptoms and severity, challenging kids may receive a diagnosis of Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, Conduct Disorder, ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder, or others. Challenging kids may get in trouble for non-compliance at home, school, or both. They have difficulty following instructions, switching gears, getting along with others, and responding appropriately to a variety of social situations. They have outbursts and may swear, hit, spit, throw things, or assault others. Parents of challenging kids often feel stuck and desperate when the use of rewards and punishment is ineffective, especially given that such strategy is often prescribed and is at times effective with less-challenging children. Challenging kids may embarrass their parents with noncompliance so much that they become convinced their child ENJOYS being hostile and mean! 78
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What Causes the Outbursts?
Too often, parents mistakenly blame themselves for their child’s misbehavior. Blame may also come from well-meaning friends or school personnel who believe their parenting is not strict or consistent enough. But parenting techniques are only one factor impacting children’s behavior. Author of Lost at School (Scribner, 2008) and The Explosive Child (Harper, 2010), Harvard Medical School instructor and pediatric psychologist Dr. Russ Greene writes, “Challenging behavior occurs when the demands of the environment exceed a kid’s capacity to respond adaptively. In other words, it takes two to tango.” In When Your Kids Push Your Buttons (Grand Central Publishing, 2004) parent educator Bonnie Harris explains, “Children feel under attack from negative judgments and criticisms and are often left with no choice but to engage in counterattack.” Though on the surface challenging kids may appear to be attention-seeking, manipulative, limit-testing, and poorly motivated, this may not be the case! Children often harbor unsolved cognitive problems which they lack the skills to solve on their own. Experts who work extensively with defiant children and families insist that challenging kids do NOT enjoy tormenting or offending people. Harris states, “Children want to be successful. No child is happy being manipulative or out of control.” These kids frequently have trouble reading social cues and use aggression and defiance for selfpreservation.
The Importance of Empathy
Being responsive and showing empathy is critical to managing challenging behavior. Dr. Greene asserts that when parents show empathy and teach skills for adaptive behavior, behavior improves. On Greene’s Lives in the Balance site, he teaches the definition of good treatment which is “being responsive to the hand you’ve been dealt” and is NOT “treating every kid exactly the same.” Philip and Nancy Hall, who wrote Parenting a Defiant Child (AMACOM, 2007) believe parents need to display empathy and “the know-how to help their children develop and sustain meaningful relationships.” In Confident Parents, Remarkable Kids (Adams Media, 2008) Harris explains that parents’ expectations of their child must be based on who he is, not on who they wish he would be.
She writes “To affect their behavior, their internal state must first be understood, then accepted, then addressed.”
Help for Families
Because of varying philosophies and approaches to helping challenging kids, parents should educate themselves to choose experts and solutions which offer a good fit. A fairly new approach is Greene’s Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) which involves three parts: learning about your child’s perspective, clarifying your own concerns, and brainstorming solutions. The role of parents is to figure out what is getting in their child’s way of not doing well. Greene stresses that solutions to behavior problems take great effort, bravery, and practice. But since CPS eliminates any power struggle, the outcome is win-win. To learn more about CPS visit http://www.livesinthebalance.org/what-iscollaborative-problem-solving-cps. Harris also endorses a collaborative approach with kids who push your buttons, and her excellent tips for coping include: 1) When emotions are heated, stop dangerous actions only. Do not react. 2) Never try to teach a lesson or solve a problem in the heat of the moment. 3) Walk away if you think you will yell, blame, or shame. 4) Count to ten. 5) Inhale and exhale deeply at least three times. 6) Find a word or phrase to repeat to yourself that will hold you back from reacting even for a second. 7) Remind yourself that your child is having a problem not being a problem. 8) If your emotions are high, acknowledge that you are having a problem as well. Own it. 9) Don’t make your child responsible for your feelings or reactions. 10) Don’t take it personally. Do be a sounding board. 11) Appeal to your child’s sense of fairness and logic. 12) Remember, this too will pass. Because challenging and defiant children come in all shapes and sizes, there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment or prescription. An important first step even if you are struggling to define the problem is to seek help, stay positive, and cling to hope. mp Michele Ranard has a husband, two children, and a master’s in counseling. Visit her at hellolovelychild. blogspot.com.
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Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy Promotes New Black Belts
On November 8, Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy promoted twelve of its advanced students to the rank of first-degree black belt. These black belt candidates were required to complete a rigorous test which included an essay, a written exam, verbal questions, and a test of physical skills. We are very proud of the following students: Miles Bogan, Jeremiah Cawley, Chris Johnson, Kamiya Moten, Kavian Mitchell, Kamille Moten, Sean Williams, Christopher Wilson, Clarence Moten, LaTonya Cawley, Hezekiah Hampton and Shamar Elliott. Instructors that helped conduct this black belt test were: David Johnson, DeVante Waits, Douglas Perry, Booker Pitts, Briana Jackson and Erke Bogan.
Pink & Pearls Support Cancer Awareness
Pink & Pearls for Girls made inspirational cards for the patients and staff at the Breast Cancer Image Center on Carmichael Road. The girls completed a workshop on things that they can do to make sick people feel better. For more information on how to become a Pearl Girl, call us today at (334) 561-5091.
Montgomery Resident Dedicates Talent to Wig Designs for Women
Cherrie Wells, a native of Tuscaloosa who now resides in Montgomery, has been passionate about wigs since childhood. Wells attended Virginia College in Montgomery to pursue her cosmetology dream. Her gift for making wigs earned high recognition within the community while she was still a continuing student. Wells has now dedicated much of her talent in designing wigs for cancer patients. A customized wig adds a smile filled with hope and encouragement to those that may be otherwise devastated. This passion started when Wells was employed in a beauty supply store and the challenge was to find a look that satisfied a very sensitive cancer patient. It was at that moment that the assignment was clear and meaningful. The goal is to create the look an individual desires that will complement the beauty within. Wells’s wig designs range from short and sassy to flirty and curly. Contact her for more information on how you can get a customized wig at 205-826-4685. (Photo by Dorothy Shi, New York)
Family Karate Center News
Mann Dancers Participate In B’ham Convention Students from Mann Dance Studios enjoyed the KAR Dance convention held in Birmingham October 26. The students enjoyed taking classes from Falicie and Turk, Jen Toby, Kevin Herman, Julie Tomaino, Tawyna Kuzia, and Tiffany Schleceter. Shown with teacher Stephanie Jones Anderson are scholarship winners Mackenzie Cherry and Grayson Gazell. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
The Family Karate Center was honored to host demonstrations of children’s self defense in many recent fall festivals. The Family Guidance Center’s Fall Festival started with the Family Karate Center students passing out candy and helping prepare hot dogs for many children and their families. After everyone played games and visited booths with the Montgomery Police Department, health screenings and other informative programs from Family Guidance, the students gathered together for their annual Stranger Danger and ASK MOM FIRST demo spotlighting students from the school’s exclusive 2-4 year old program. The youth SWAT team (Student Winning Attitude Team) performed next, and demonstrated how to handle bullies with their helpful Bully Busters techniques. Teens and adults performed a women’s self-defense program, and volunteers got to break boards and win one free week of classes! The Family Karate Center loves to help our community with a free demonstration for your organization! CALL 220-9319 to set up a date for a free informative demo that can teach your child how to get away from a potentially dangerous situation! 80
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Wetumpka 4-H Delivers Help for Police
Local 4-H members deliver stuffed animals to the Wetumpka Police Department recently. The stuffed animals are used in cases where officers come into contact with children who might need a little comfort. Sarah Phillips, Callie Littlefield, Tamara Phillips, Rebecca Phillips and Chanceton Littlefield are shown.
Wetumpka Scouts Hold Bike Rodeo
Wetumpka Cub Scout Pack 50 hosted its Bicycle Rodeo at Fort Toulouse State Park September 27-28. Boys participated in events to hone their bike-riding skills and learned about bike repairs and safety. The boys also participated in the Adopt-A-Mile program on the morning of September 27. They cleared trash from Fort Toulouse Road leading up to the park entrance.
Pink & Pearl Girls Hold Career and Community Day
Pink and Pearls for Girls recently held its annual Career and Community Day. This year’s theme was “Runway of Dreams.” The youth engaged in activities with a variety of community leaders in the Montgomery area. The event ended with a “career” fashion show. The girls dressed up as whatever they would like to be someday.
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Meet the Winners of the
26th Annual Families of the Year Awards Edited by Alison K. Rouse For 26 years, the Family Guidance Center of Alabama has sponsored Families of the Year Awards, recognizing outstanding families nominated for exceptional family teamwork, individual growth and family involvement. This year five families from Alabama’s River Region were honored at a special ceremony held at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts on November 16. In addition to the Family Guidance Center and Montgomery Parents magazine, sponsors of the program include: WSFA, Aronov, Sterling Bank, Cumulus Broadcasting, the J.K. Lowder Family Foundation, Palomar Insurance, O’Donahue Design and Minuteman Press. For more information about the awards selection or the Family Guidance Center, please call 270-4100 or visit www. familyguidancecenter.org.
dren’s ministries, and daughters Allyson, 21, and Sadie, 17, have grown up in the church and emerged as leaders in the children’s and youth departments. As an employee with Aronov Realty for more than 20 years, John is respected by his coworkers, as his business success parallels his commitment to his family and church. Older daughter Allyson is now a senior at the University of Georgia, where she serves as president of Gamma Phi Beta, a UGA Wesley Foundation student discipler and small group leader, and a UNICEF outreach leader, among other leadership roles. Sadie is a senior at Saint James School, where she is captain of the cheerleading squad, a student ambassador and peer leader. She has also received the YMCA Big Buddy of the Year award and has served as a children’s camp counselor. In early 2014, the Argo family met a challenging situation with flying colors when Glenda suffered an accident while visiting colleges with Sadie. She suffered head injuries in addition to several bone fractures and became hospitalized in Texas for more than two weeks. Yet, Glenda was able to draw strength from her family and her church, eventually overcoming significant memory loss and learning to walk again. Her focus and tenacity aided her in witnessing to others her love for Jesus and the power of prayer.
The Gabriel & Tori Browning Family
The John & Glenda Argo Family
Montgomery residents John and Glenda Argo were nominated by Rev. Lawson Bryan, pastor of First United Methodist Church, who has watched this family support each other over the last seven years. John serves as the church’s Sunday School superintendent, Glenda serves (and has for more than 28 years!) as the director of chilMontgomery Parents I December 2014
Nominated by Hayden Pickett, this Prattville family is comprised of Gabriel, Tori, nine-year-old Cooper and six-yearold Taylor. The family enjoys eating right and staying physically active through recreational and organized sports. The Brownings ran the Champions of Hope Breast Cancer Run in Dothan and assisted another childhood cancer run organized by Gabe, even helping raise $1,000 for cancer awareness. 82
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In addition to maintaining a fitness standard, the Brownings support each other academically by completing homework assignments together and sharing the ups and downs of their daily school and work activities. Gabe is a U.S. Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy instructor, and his family joins him at every Academy family social. The Browning family also joins with the Academy students at Prattville Primary School several times throughout the year to clean up, paint and care for the school’s landscape. Tori is treasurer of the Association of Parents and Teachers at Prattville Primary and plays an active role as a substitute and volunteer. She and Gabe also help lead a premarital counseling program at Centerpoint Church mentoring engaged couples, as well as being key players in Vacation Bible School. Gabe recently even played the part of a Good Samaritan when he was a first responder to a vehicle accident. He stabilized the person’s neck, controlled bleeding, briefed medics upon their arrival and directed traffic in an effort to calm the situation. www.montgomeryparents.com
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The Don & Tracy Larkins Family
The Jane Ferguson Family
Montgomery resident Jane Ferguson, her adult daughters Rhonda Thompson and Renee’ Summers, and their families are heavily involved in community service and were nominated by Sheri McKean. Known as the “Mother Teresa of Montgomery,” Jane was hired as the church social worker for First Baptist Church in 1988, and over the past 26 years, her position has evolved into the minister of community ministries. As a result, she has helped create numerous programs with the simple mission of “meeting human needs in the name of Jesus.” Jane, Rhonda, and Rhonda’s children Austin and Morgan are regularly seen serving together at the Caring Center (which provides food, clothing, household items and financial assistance to those in need) and the Nehemiah Center. Under Rhonda’s leadership, the Nehemiah Center provides after-school and summer programs for children in the Chisholm community; offers GED, job skills training and parenting classes; operates a full-size gym and plans a community garden next spring. As head of the English department at Loveless Academic Magnet Program (LAMP), Renee’ organizes and implements an annual talent show for LAMP students to demonstrate their unique gifts on stage. She also heads up food drives for the Caring Center, and regularly recommends students to serve as interns for after-school and summer programs at the Nehemiah Center. Emphasis there is placed not only on academics, but also athletic skills, art enrichment programs and character-building activities. Renee’s 21-year-old daughter Sohaila Nikoufar has also worked as an intern for the Nehemiah Kids Club. Renee’s husband, Robert Summers, works with A+ Education Foundation and spends time with the Nehemiah Kids conducting science experiments and overseeing projects.
In addition to Don and Tracy, the Larkins family of Midway includes Alexis, 8, and Tracy’s mother, Sandra Dykes. Nominator Christy Wadsworth says that Tracy and Don truly believe in opening their hearts by opening their home. They have been foster parents to more than 30 children in the custody of the Department of Human Resources, ranging from babies to 18 years old. When they are asked to keep a foster child (or children), the family makes the decision together and treats the children as one of their own, even assigning chores alongside other family members. Don and Tracy have organized a community advocacy group and worked with others to obtain grant funding in order to provide music and art programs in their community. They have worked diligently to raise funds for their church’s youth department and at Alexis’s school to create opportunities for missions. Alexis even organized a blanket drive to collect blankets at her school for the Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless a few years ago and then took other students with her to deliver the blankets, raising awareness of the homeless problems in our own back yard. Currently, Alexis has organized a group of young girls to organize fundraisers for a scholarship in memory of a young man in their class who died earlier this year and for a family who recently lost a loved one to cancer.
Amazingly, many of the Larkins’ family accomplishments have taken place in the midst of their own trials. Don suffered a work accident a few years ago and broke his back, while Tracy was diagnosed and treated for uterine cancer. While their health continues to improve, their dedication to 83
their family, each other, their church and their community has never wavered.
The Gene & Melanie McDaniel Family
This Prattville family supports each other through prayer and compassion. Melanie has rheumatoid arthritis and painful nerve problems, while Gene has back trouble and torn ankle tendons. From one day to the next, they help each other through times that may be particularly painful or challenging. Through it all, nominators Michael and Terri Taylor say the McDaniels support and help aging or sick relatives who need their care. Witnessing this dedication has perhaps aided daughter Ashley, 19, in her volunteer work at Children’s Hospital of Alabama. As a freshman nursing student at UAB, Ashley was even selected to become an ambassador for the college, an honor normally reserved for upperclassmen. Gene serves his church as a deacon, Sunday School teacher and head of the Building and Grounds committee. He also works as a volunteer for Global Impact, an organization that works for and gathers supplies for missionaries around the world. The group has raised money to help build a school in Africa and has also bought and shipped a tractor there. In addition to her volunteer position as their church treasurer, Melanie has run book fairs at Ashley’s schools, substituted, chaperoned and participated in the “Adopt a Senior” program at East Memorial Christian Academy. Through this program, seniors are “adopted” and sent gifts and letters of encouragement each month to help them throughout their last year of high school. mp www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
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 well-known artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters. Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and community-based organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@ bellsouth.net. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 457-9254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning
tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to 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) 349-4235 or visit www. chomonline.org. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death
December 2014 Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/ visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown. com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is
Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. 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 hourlong 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 FebruaryMay 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www. firstwhitehouse.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In
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located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com. 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.
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Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/ Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next class is December 10 from 10:30-11 a.m. 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 troubleshooting 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. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. 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
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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. Slow Flow Yoga Lunchtime Yoga Classes at Old Alabama Town. Take a break from your computer desk and relieve your body of all that stress with some slow flow yoga! Instructor Juliet Thomas provides downtown workers with a convenient way to stretch and reenergize before going back into the office. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to 310 N. Hull Street (Lucas Tavern) and we will direct you to a place to change and set up your mat. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days) Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. Pay by cash or check. Make checks payable to Juliet Thomas. Blocks will be provided. Avoid a big meal before class. Please arrive 5-10 minutes early. Wear comfortable clothing, something to easily move around in. Mats and props are provided if needed, although students may prefer their own mat after a few yoga sessions. Bring water to hydrate on your walk back to the office! No sugary drinks or other food allowed. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@ icloud.com
Services
American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the
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Calendar/Support Groups 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. 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)
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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 The Central Alabama Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets 10 a.m.-noon on second Saturdays at Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church, 6000 Atlanta Highway, Room 3105. We have guest speakers, video presentations, printed information and a group that welcomes sharing in an informal setting. Refreshments provided. Interested patients, family members and friends are encouraged to come. For more info, contact Lorenzo and Elaine Duncan at (334) 281-8158, or by e-mail at duncan6563@gmail.com. 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 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 “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway
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December 2014 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 info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourning-
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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. 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. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. This group is just getting started so a specific meeting time has not been set yet. Location will be 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 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
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.
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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. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook—SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids) for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 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 correc-
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups tions. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 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 2704100 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.
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
This Month
Monday, December 1
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes 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 Pri-Med) 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 more info. Prattville Christmas Parade 7 p.m. “A Christmas Carol” will be the theme and participants will choose their favorite Christmas songs as inspiration for decorating their entries. The parade will begin at the Autauga County Courthouse at the corner of 4th and Court Streets and will meander through historic downtown Prattville and back around to the Courthouse. Lots of candy will be tossed to onlookers as the floats, antique cars, dance groups, horses and others take part in this much anticipated annual event. Prattville High School and Marbury High School bands will entertain the crowds with holiday music. For parade applications or more info about these events, call (334) 595-0854.
Tuesday, December 2
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Tuesday at Kazoo Toys. Children, ages 3-2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 minutes. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 4:45 pm, 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 more info. Steven Curtis Chapman at the MPAC 7 p.m. Baptist Health Foundation welcomes Chapman to headline the 10th anniversary of “A Montgomery Family Christmas” at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. This fun, family-oriented Christmas event benefits Baptist Hospice. Tickets begin at $27. Visit www.mpaconline. org or call 481-5100. City of Wetumpka Christmas Tree Lighting Gold Star Park. Free Pictures with Santa sponsored by Aliant Bank at 5 p.m.; Tree Lighting & Jess Meuse performance at 6 p.m. Mayor’s Tree Lighting Join Mayor Todd Strange at City Hall for the City of Montgomery’s Christmas Tree Lighting before the regular scheduled City Council meeting, which starts at 5 p.m. For more info, call (334) 625-4400 or visit www. montgomeryal.gov.
Wednesday, December 3
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.
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December 2014 Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes 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, December 4
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes 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. Third Day at the MPAC 7 p.m. Tickets begin at $25. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100. Holiday Open House at Old Alabama Town 4-7 p.m. Free admission. Enjoy the holidays, early-Alabama style! Live holiday music, traditional pioneer crafts for children, storytelling & costumed guests, cookies and hot cider. Followed by Karren Pell’s Holiday Revue in the Old Church at 7 p.m. Visit www.oldalabamatown. com or call 240-4500 for more info. Red Door Theatre Presents Always....Patsy Cline Through December 7; 12 and 13 Downtown Union Springs. Written and originally directed by Ted Swindley and filled with the wonderful music of Patsy Cline, is the real life story of her friendship with Houston housewife Louise Seger. Always…Patsy Cline is more than a tribute to the legendary country singer who died tragically at age 30 in a plane crash in 1963. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in l961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death. The musical play includes many of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Sweet Dreams” and “Walking After Midnight”…27 songs in all. Rated PG Tickets may be obtained by calling (334) 738-8687 or visiting www.reddoortheatre.org. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents I Love a Piano Through December 6; 11-13; 16; and 18-20 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $26.50 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $21.50. Reservations must be paid in advance. To make reservations or for more information, call 877840-0457 or visit http://www.ticketforce.com/. Christmas Lights Festival at the Montgomery Zoo Through December 7, 11-14 and 18-31 5:30-9:30 p.m. nightly. See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a winter wonderland sparkling with thousands of seasonal lights. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, a brisk train ride or see the lights atop the Zoofari Skylift Ride. Visit with Santa through December 23, and enjoy live entertainment with some warming hot chocolate. Visit www.montgomeryzoo.com or call (334) 240-4900. Alabama River Region Arts Centre’s Christmas Faire -- Thursdays through Sundays through December 21 10 a.m.-4 p.m. showcasing fine art, handmade jewelry, pottery, quilts and crafts of all kinds made by local artisans. The center is located at the corner of Alabama and Tallassee streets in downtown Wetumpka. For info, visit www.arrac.org.
Friday, December 5
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes 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
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(334) 380-1879 to register or request more info. Father-Daughter Diamond Princess Ball A night your princess will never forget! $100 per couple. The ball will be held at the Ware-Farley-Hood House in Old Alabama Town from 6-8 p.m., and will be transformed into a pink palace fit for little princesses. Upon arrival each princess is given a tiara and then the couples are photographed together. Reservations for the ball can be made by calling (334) 240-4500. The Diamond Princess Ball is open to girls in grade six and younger. More information on Facebook. Progressive Nativity, Luminary Night & Downtown Open House in Wetumpka Downtown Wetumpka. 6:30-8 p.m. For more information, contact Tiffany at 567-1384. Capri Classics Presents It’s a Wonderful Life 7:30 p.m. Frank Capra’s classic featuring James Stewart. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org. Friday Night Live 7-10 p.m. Doster Community Center, Prattville. For 5th and 6th grade students of Autauga County. Every child must be on the school roster in order to attend. We encourage all interested parents to chaperone. Children will not be allowed to leave until their parent or guardian arrives to pick them up. This is for your child’s safety. Cost is $5 per student. Giant Yard Sale -- Also December 6 7 a.m.- noon. Sponsored by Montgomery Area Square Dance Association, 2200 Poplar Street, Montgomery. Indoors - rain or shine! Books, tools, household goods, seasonal, electronics and more... Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents A Christmas Carol -- Through December 24 Written by Charles Dickens; adapted by Geoffrey Sherman. An ASF tradition begins with the return of this holiday hit featuring Charles Dickens himself who, with sleight of hand and sense of humor, brings his magical story to life. When miserly Ebenezer Scrooge receives an unwanted visit from the ghost of his former business partner, an overnight journey of epic proportions begins. With a gorgeous set, period costumes, beautifully sung carols and a spectacular new ending, you and your family will be left totally enthralled! Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353 for tickets.
Saturday, December 6
LACROSSE IS COMING to the YMCA of Greater Montgomery Emory Folmar Soccer Complex, 10:00 AM-12:30 PM Clinic Cost: $20 (Limited to 60 Participants) LEAGUES WILL FORM SPRING 2015 INTRODUCTORY CLINIC: No experience or equipment is required-- sticks will be provided for all, to learn the rules and skills of lacrosse in a fun, non-contact environment. Open to girls and boys 2nd through 12th grade. This is a oneday clinic to introduce the sport of Lacrosse. Led by the Huntingdon College Men’s Lacrosse Head Coach Andrew Carey. For more information on how to register call 334-396-9754 or visit www.ymcamontgomery.org. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Children’s Holiday Art Workshop -Also December 13 December 6 from 2-4 p.m.; December 13 from 10 a.m.-noon or 1-3 p.m. Creative Arts Center (Beside Prattville Police Dept.) Children will be able to create a piece of artwork to keep or to give as a gift to family or friends. This workshop is FREE, but space is limited and reservations are required. To register or for more information, please call (334) 595-0854.
Holiday Open House 2-4 p.m. at the Prattville Creative Arts Center, Chestnut Street behind City Hall. Holiday art and gift items will be featured in this exhibit sponsored by the Prattauga Art Guild. Offering one-of-a-kind gifts that will thrill the receiver! This event is free and open to the public. For more info, please contact the Special Events Office at (334) 595-0854. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “How to Build Holiday Yard Stakes.” 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. Baking Cookies with Santa 8:30-10 a.m. Kids can enjoy baking yummy treats with Santa at Williams-Sonoma at The Shoppes at EastChase. The baking fun will be $10 and participants must register by December 3. Reservations must be made through the The Shoppes at EastChase Guest Services Office. Call 279-6046 to reserve your spot! More info at www.theshoppesateastchase.com/. Photos with Santa at the Shoppes at EastChase Through December 24 Picture Times: Saturdays from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (through December 20); Sundays from 1-6 p.m. (through December 21); Friday, December 12, from 5-8 p.m. (*Pet Night*); Monday, December 22 & Tuesday, December 23 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Wednesday, December 24, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more info, call (334) 2796046. More info at www.theshoppesateastchase.com. Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org. 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. Holiday Open House at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1-4 p.m. Festivities for this event include musical performances by local school choirs and performance groups, holiday art projects, cookies and lemonade, and horse and carriage rides in the park. Holiday Open House is free and open to the public, so invite your friends and family and spend the afternoon at MMFA celebrating the season. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333.
Sunday, December 7
Special Needs Skate -- Also December 21 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. Ronnie Milsap at the MPAC 7:30 p.m. The six-time Grammy-winning icon who has blurred genres and dominated various charts beyond country. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100. Pike Road Christmas Tree Lighting 5 p.m. in front of the Town Hall.
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Monday, December 8
Millbrook Community Players Present The Nutcracker and the Mouse King -- Through December 13 Adapted by Joe Cosentino. Performances are December 8, 9, 11 & 12 at 8:30 and 10 a.m. and Dec. 12 & 13 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317. Wetumpka Depot Presents Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells -Through December 12 Based on the children’s book written by Barbara Park; directed by Kristy Meanor. Daytime performances for school groups and parents with homeschooled children or preschoolers. One evening performance, December 16 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available by calling the box office at (334) 868-1440. For more info, also visit www. wetumpkadepot.com.
Tuesday, December 9
VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead community. Look for a big red barn! For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth. org or visit www.facebook.com/VegOutMontgomery.
Wednesday, December 10
Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. This month’s topic is Holiday Deocrating with Natural Materials. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more information, call the ACES office at 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.
Thursday, December 11
Wetumpka Depot Presents Fruitcake and Eggnog: A Tacky Christmas Sweater Extravaganza Also December 12, 14 and 18 7:30 performances except for 2 p.m. December 14. Fun-filled cabaret written and directed by Tom Salter. For more info and tickets, visit www.wetumpkadepot. com or call (334) 868-1440. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents It’s a Wonderful Life: The Radio Play -- Through December 21 Adapted by Joe Landry from the screenplay by Frank Capra, Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, and Johanna Sperling. Directed by Greg Thornton. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday. Call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org to get tickets.
Friday, December 12
Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. Joe Bonamassa at the MPAC 8 p.m. Bonamassa’s career began onstage opening for B.B. King in 1989, when he was only 12 years old. Today, he is hailed worldwide as one of the greatest guitar players of his generation, and is an ever-evolving singer-songwriter who has released 15 solo albums in the last 13 years, all on his own label, J&R Adventures. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100.
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Calendar/Support Groups Community Chorus & Prattville Pops Annual Christmas Concert 7 p.m. Prattville’s Doster Community Center. Spend an evening with family and friends enjoying traditional holiday favorites and more beautiful music of the season. This event is free and open to the public. For more info, please call (334) 595-0854. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets 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, December 13
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/events/1374454692792666/?source=1. 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 “Holiday Train Engine.” 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. Pancake Breakfast for Missions 7-11 a.m. Frazer UMC Fellowship Hall. Sponsored by Men’s Life, tickets are just $5 for adults, $3 for children, with proceeds going to support Frazer missions. Volunteer photographers will be available to take pictures with Santa. Tickets are available in the atrium on Sundays, in the Discipleship Office, or from any Men’s Life leader. Call 495-6391 or e-mail candfhall@charter.net. Christmas on the Coosa 7:30 a.m. & 9 a.m.Character Breakfast (Wetumpka Civic Center); 10 a.m.-5 p.m.- Arts and Crafts (behind Wetumpka City Administration Bldg.); 10 a.m.-1 p.m. - Car Show (Gold Star Park); 11 a.m.-1 p.m.Gold Star Stage Performances; 2 p.m.-Street Parade; 5 p.m.-Ski-in Santa/Boat Parade; and 6 p.m.-Fireworks. Visit www. wetumpkachamber.com. Breakfast with Santa at the Shoppes at EastChase Also December 20 Kids can enjoy breakfast with Santa at Panera Bread at The Shoppes at EastChase from 8:30-10:30 a.m. The $10 cost will include visits with Santa, breakfast and photos. Participants must register by December 11. Reservations must be made through the The Shoppes at EastChase Guest Services Office. Call 279-6046 to reserve your spot! More info at www.theshoppesateastchase.com/. Breakfast with Santa at Eastdale Mall 9 a.m. Santa always starts his day off with a good breakfast, and this year Eastdale Mall invites you to join him! Breakfast sponsored by Cinnabon is $5 per child and all proceeds will go to Child Protect. For more info or to make reservations, please e-mail Suzanna.wasserman@aronov.com. More info at eastdale-mall.com/ events/2014/12.
Montgomery Parents I December 2014
Alabama Mississippi All-Star Game Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. Kickoff will be at noon. Game day tickets are $10 each (Children 5 and under FREE). Tickets may be purchased the day of the game at any Cramton Bowl ticket booth. For more info, call 625-2300. More info at www.al-msallstarfootball.com/ Home.aspx. Carriage Rides at the Shoppes at EastChase Also December 20 Shoppers can enjoy holiday carriage rides through The Shoppes at EastChase from 5-7 p.m. Carriages rides will be $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Take a ride around EastChase and enjoy the beautiful holiday sights and sounds. Money collected will be donated to support the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. For more info, call 2796046. More info at www.theshoppesateastchase.com/. 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. December 13 is “Alabama’s Civil War Soldiers,” presented by Bob Bradley, Chief Curator. Learn about Alabama during the Civil War and the life of a soldier. This tour will be followed by a period rifle firing demonstration. No pre-registration 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 MondaySaturday, 8:30-4:30. Admission is always free. For more info, call 242-4364 or visit www.museum.alabama.gov. Listen…It’s Christmas! -- Also December 14 7 p.m. Frazer UMC Wesley Hall. Frazer’s 2014 original musical drama features adult and children’s choirs, orchestra, and drama. Meet Cindy and Anne, two sisters who find themselves estranged as they seek to deal with their aging father’s illness. As they journey through tears and laughter, conflict and reconciliation, they will discover anew that love is born when you listen. Call (334) 272-8622 or e-mail info@frazerumc.org. Saturday Jam Sessions at Old Alabama Town Also December 27 Pick and grin at Saturday Jam Sessions in the Rose House at Old Alabama Town. Bring your acoustic instruments and have fun. 9 a.m.-noon. For more information, call 334-240-4500 or visit www. oldalabamatown.com.
Monday, December 15
Montgomery Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops Join Thomas Hinds and the Montgomery Symphony for an evening of holiday music guaranteed to put everyone in a festive mood. The concert will be presented at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. and will feature everything from “Silent Night” to “Sleigh Ride.” Celebrated baritone Michael Hix will join the Orchestra as the guest soloist in favorite pops and sacred melodies of the season. The Holiday Pops Concert is generously sponsored by John and Joyce Caddell and the Caddell Foundation. For tickets, please call the MPAC box office at 481-5100. More info at www. mpaconline.org/events/.
Tuesday, December 16
Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org.
Thursday, December 18
ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “The Slaves’ Gamble for Freedom: Choosing Sides in the War
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December 2014 of 1812,” presented by Gene Allen Smith. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Sip, Shop & Stroll Ladies Night Out Enjoy a Sip, Shop & Stroll Ladies Night Out at Eastdalle Mall from 6-8 p.m. Grab your girlfriends and head over for a night of shopping, fun and giveaways! Shoppers can enjoy light refreshments and register to win one of three Michael Kors handbags! For more info, call 2777380 or email Suzanna.Wasserman@aronov.com. More info at eastdale-mall.com 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 Montgomery Square Dance Club will provide holiday entertainment. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, December 15, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com.
Friday, December 19
Earthquake and Friends at the MPAC 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $37.50. Earthquake is an explosive comedic performer unlike any other. His ability to engage an audience is nationally known and he is now being heralded by critics as one of the most talented comedians in the country. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100. Capital of Dreams Christmas Parade 6:15 p.m. Celebrate this special season with the Capital City’s very merry Christmas Parade filled with jolly floats and festivities. Gather your friends and loved ones for a night that is sure to make all your Christmas dreams come true! Parade route from Capitol Steps to Fountain. For more information, call 625-2100. Montgomery Ballet Presents The Nutcracker Through December 21 The Montgomery Ballet will present The Nutcracker at the Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts with choreography by artistic director Darren McIntyre. After the matinee performances Saturday and Sunday, there will be a “Sugar Plum Fairy Party” on stage with the Sugar Plum Fairy and others. Tickets range from $10-$30 and can be purchased at www.montgomeryballet.org or through the ballet office at 409-0522. There are discounts for children, seniors, students and military personnel. Showtimes: Friday, December 19, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 20, at 2 p.m. (Saturday Sugar Plum Fairy Party immediately following the show) and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, December 21, at 2 p.m. (Sunday Sugar Plum Fairy Party immediately following the show). More info at www. montgomeryballet.org.
Saturday, December 20
GO Enjoy Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center Also December 21 Make your own Christmas candy over the fireplace in the Lanark Pavilion, or create your own handmade Christmas decorations from native Alabama plants! While it might not be cold enough for a sleigh in Alabama, kids and adults can enjoy a holiday hayride with Santa and his elves. Bring your own lunch and have a picnic under the ANC pavilion! Contact Holly Beverly at (334) 285-4550 or hollyb@alabamawildlife.org.
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PJ Party with Santa Eastdale Mall is hosting a PJ Party with Santa from 6-8 p.m. Join Mrs. Claus and DJ Ziggy for this FREE holiday party, complete with milk & cookies. Santa will make a special appearance to read a story to the children, and lead them in a few of his favorite songs. Afterwards, head on over to Santa’s Village for a keepsake photo! For more info, call 277-7380 or e-mail Suzanna.Wasserman@aronov.com. More info at eastdale-mall.com/ events/2014/12
Sunday, December 21
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The Longest Night 7 p.m. Frazer UMC East Sanctuary. Held on the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, this unique night of worship is open to all but is especially designed for those who have experienced some grief, loss or brokenness that makes the Christmas holidays an emotionally difficult time of year. Come and rediscover the joy of Christ in the midst of suffering, our hope in the longest of nights. Call (334) 272-8622 or e-mail info@frazerumc.org.
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Holidays in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Studio (for ages 6 and older) 10:30-11:30 a.m. Make art projects with a holiday theme in the studio and create unique gifts! Class size is limited to 20 students. All supplies are provided. Cost: $5 members/$8 non-members for each class. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, 7:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $35. Visit http://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400 for information.
Saturday, December 27
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) 3565292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com.
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Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Pre-registration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/ events to register or for more info.
Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com. 91
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MontgomeryParents “Parents in the Know, Know Montgomery Parents” The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
www.montgomeryparents.com freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com
Are Your Customers WOMEN? So Are Our READERS! We Offer SMART ADVERTISING! Call Today, 213-7940
Home Based Business Directory MATH TUTORING 24 years teaching experience Call Lisa Tyler (334) 647-1125 lisactyler@yahoo.com
Saxon Lawn Service
You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324.
Chemistry Tutor
Young Living Essential Oils
Clarence Hann, IV
Essential Oils are a natural alternative to improving quality of life for your entire family (kids & pets, too). The Essence of the Season Collection is a GREAT Christmas gift!
Current Chemistry Teacher Experienced chemistry tutor Email channiv30@gmail.com or call 334-546-4860.
katiegrimesrotton@yahoo.com 334-467-7042 Distributor #2071250 www.youngliving.org/kmgr2014
Half off on first session if you mention this ad.
Blasting Zone Licensed Home Daycare
Piano Teacher
Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome. 1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.
Newborn-Preschool 5:30 am to 6 pm, Monday-Friday Nutritional Hot Meals Healthy Snacks CPR and First Aid Certified DHR & Family Guidance Center Welcome 2 minutes from downtown Montgomery Call 269.4174
Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors. Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.
TUTORING 28 years teaching experience Tutoring grades 1st-8th Call Alice Gwin at (334) 300-8350. Email dalice.gwin@gmail.com.
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BLL Computer Services
Complete computer repair. Free diagnoses. Fast friendly service. Flat rate. No hourly fees. Free pickup and delivery. Call: 334-450-9760.
Private Security Guard Work or Sit with Elderly Will do private security guard work for private parties at reasonable fee. Call 334-566-7124. Will sit with elderly, and do have experience. Call 334-670-6906.
“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!
BRICKS 4 KIDZ™
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Light and Deep Cleaning Jobs Free Quotes, Window Cleaning, Light Painting Jobs. Call Teri at 365.2727 or 320-8966.
We provide after-school enrichment, in-school workshops, birthday parties and so much more. The best part is that we are mobile. We are very excited to partner with other local businesses as we bring the concepts of S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) to the children of Montgomery. For information, visit www.bricks4kidz.com/alabama-montgomery or call Stephanie at 904-357-0122.
Squeaky Clean
The Piano Man
Busy as a Bee
Essential Oil Classes & Business Building
Learn how essential oils can support your family’s health or how you can build a business by sharing your passion with friends, family, or medical practice. Contact Alissabeth Taylor at 334-478-0166 or email AlissabethTaylor@gmail.com.
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No job too big or small. Clean/disinfect kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum, dust and floors. Over 13 years experience. Affordable pricing. 334.451.0052
Piano tunings, repair, and restoration. Active member of the Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. Call 569-9662 or visit www.pianoman.net/al
Southern Quality Lawns, LLC
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
Certified K-6 Teacher Reading and Math Tutoring Contact 334-456-3728 or email brittanygraves13@ hotmail.com
Brother to Brother Entertainment, Inc.
Get a DJ and a Photographer in one package for your next event. We specialize in birthdays, weddings, luncheons, family reunions, and holiday parties. Contact Matthew Ezell @ 334-202-6869 or Alexander Strum @ 334-235-3518
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Montgomery Parents I December 2014
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AdvertiserDirectory We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.
First UMC, Montgomery, 73
My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 17
First UMC, Prattville, 38
New Park, 63
Fleming’s Martial Arts, 74
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 65
4D Mommies, 51
Frazer UMC, 75
Pioneer Museum of Alabama, 71
Adventure Sports II, 50
Greengate School, 59
Prattville Wesleyan Preschool, 92
Alabama Christian Academy, 29
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 33
Professional Pediatrics, 12
Alabama Dept. of Health, Inside Front
Hooper Academy, 28
Providence Early Childcare/Preschool, 37
Alabama School of Math & Science, 3
Huntington Learning Center, 19
Pump It Up Party, 61
It Works, 8
R.O.C.K. Campaign, 35
Jenny Alexander, MD, 92
Riverview Camp for Girls, 57
Johnson Martial Arts/Karate, 42
Saint James School, 1
KLynn Ice Skating School, 41
Saint James UMC, 9
Kingry Orthodontics, 42
Smiles Galore Parties, 65
Kreative Moments, 92
Spacewalker, The, 53
Kumon, 77
Spotless Cleaning Services, 11
Learning Tree Child Care, 32
Stone’s Antique & Flea Mall, 37
Legacy Early Learning Center, 46
Success Unlimited Academy, 26
Little Explorer’s Learning Center, 44
Sugar N Spice Daycare, 28
Lori Mercer Photography, 69
Sylvan Learning Center, 44
Macon East Academy, 39
Taylor Road Baptist Church, 70
Magnolia Hill, 18
The Big Green Bus, 55
Mathnasium, 50
The Dollhouse Toy Store, 72
Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 41
The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover
Montessori @ Hampstead, 22
Tiger Park Taekwondo, 92
Montessori @ Mulberry, 38
Trinity Presbyterian Church Preschool, 19
Montgomery Catholic Schools, 31
Trinity Presbyterian School, 15
Montgomery Humane Society, 68
True Vision Health and Wellness, 93
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 69
Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 81
Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 14
Vaughn Road Preschool, 20
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 53
Vishnu Dental, 49
Montgomery Women’s Health, Inside Back
W.A. Gayle Planetarium, 71
Montgomery Zoo, 52
WeeOnes Daycare and Preschool, 54
Mrs. Sandy’s House, 92
YMCA Montgomery, 27
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 21 Alcyone Gunn, 93 Alice Gwin Tutoring, 92
ASKIN/Synergy House, 93 AUM Continuing Education, 47 Baptist Health, 2 Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 49 Bradford Health Services, 4 Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 25 Chapman Orthodontics, 61 CHARMS, Inc., 93 Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 23 Christmas on the Coosa, 67 Dancewear, Etc., 92 Dentistry for Children, 51 Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 7 Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 55 Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 27 E & S Hobbies, 92 Eastdale Mall, 45 Easter Seals Central Alabama, 74 Eastwood Christian School, 43 Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 81 Embellish, 70 Evangel Christian Academy, 54 First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 13
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The Penguins of Madagascar
The Hunger Games:
Mockingjay Part 1
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B Language: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated Penguins of Madagascar PG for mild action and some rude humor. If you’ve seen any of the Madagascar movies then you already know what to expect from this elite group of covert New York City Zoo escapees. Led by Skipper (voice of Tom MaGrath), these rough and tumble operatives are prone to slapping, punching and extreme sport-like maneuvers. Each of them has a special role. Kowalski (voice of Chris Miller) is the intelligence guy. Rico (voice of Conrad Vernon) is the combat and weapons specialist. And Private (voice of Christopher Knights), well, he’s just cute. In this animation the team is swept up in a new adventure when penguins begin disappearing from zoos around the world. The culprit behind the abductions is Dave (voice of John Malkovich), an aggrieved octopus who used to be the darling of the animal facility -- before the Antarctic birds arrived. Having lost his place in the spotlight, the eight-legged sea creature is out for revenge. However the penguins aren’t the only ones on Dave’s trail. Another undercover group of is hunting him as well. Working together are Agent Classified (voice of Benedict Cumberbatch), Short Fuse (voice of Ken Jeong), Eva (voice of Annet Mahendru) and Corporal (voice of Peter Stormare). All are members of the North Wind, and have been assigned to corral the testy, tentacled critter. For the most part, Penguins of Madagascar resorts to the usual elements you’d expect to find in a children’s television cartoon -- except it is presented in 3D. In addition to the typical slapstick humor, the screenplay’s non-stop frenetic action is jam packed with explosions, tranquilizer guns and a Taser. Unfortunately there is also plenty of rude humor, potty jokes and mild sexual innuendo. While some of the more adult-oriented humor may go over the heads of children, these inclusions (plus sight gags, play on words and spoofs on the spy genre) suggest the scriptwriters are trying to entertain the parents in the audience as well. And just incase you can’t figure out the intent of the plot, the script blatantly explains the moral of the story: It doesn’t matter what you look like, it’s what you do. But while that nice sentiment is sure not to be lost on the older crowd, youngsters still may miss the message in the midst of the melee.
What Parents need to know about Mockingjay Part 1...
Violence: Images of a destroyed town include smoldering ruins, along with hundreds of charred and bloody bodies lying in the streets. A character steps on a skull. Characters wearing black hoods are forced to kneel before being executed (shot in the head) in front of the other townspeople. Corpses wrapped in blankets are piled in a building. Numerous bloody and injured patients are shown inside a hospital, which is later intentionally bombed killing everyone inside. Planes are shot down. Masked soldiers shoot at a group of men and women (many of the soldiers are later killed in an explosion). Dead bodies are frequently shown strewn on the ground. Torture methods are discussed and a character is shown with signs of enduring physical abuse. A character attacks another by pushing, hitting and choking, until he is hit over the head with a large object. Sexual Content: A few moments of embracing and kissing are shown. Language: None noted.
What Parents need to know about Penguins of Madagascar...
Violence: Characters engage in frequent non-graphic cartoon violence including slapping, punching, pushing and shoving. Some characters are eaten. The action scenes also include explosions, abductions, car chases and crashes. A character is tasered. Others are sucked up into a machine or run over. Characters break into a secure facility and steal items. They are later shot with tranquilizer darts. There are numerous moments of peril and some scary images. A character chokes on a paper clip. Sexual Content: The characters make some crude sexual comments. Two male characters are seen kissing. Others are slapped on the buttocks. Language: The script contains name-calling. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink champagne. Others are shot with tranquilizer darts. Montgomery Parents I December 2014
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: D+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: A Alcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some disturbing images and thematic material. Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) has lost her identity as a spitfire.It’s understandable -- considering what she has been through. After volunteering to take her younger sister’s (Willow Shields) place in the Hunger Games, she had to kill other children or be killed herself. Winning that grisly, annual competition, she was supposed to live out the rest of her years in pampered luxury. But her fiery temper got her in trouble with Panem’s President Snow (Donald Sutherland). In retaliation for her defiance, Snow called her and the other past victors of the game back into the arena for a Quarter Quell. After surviving that by openly violating Snow’s rules, Katniss has been reduced to a shell of her former self, besieged by horrendous nightmares that leave her cowering in the dark. Like the books this film is based on, this franchise has always been rife with violence, from the depiction of kids ruthlessly bludgeoning other kids, to past victors forcibly murdering past victors. For many parents the brutality has been the biggest problem with this dystopian teen tale. And this third movie is even more eerily in step with current news reports of world events. Then there is the problem of the grownups. Yes, this is yet another movie where the older generation manipulate the younger one for their own purposes. Katniss has sparked the embers of a revolution. Eager to fan the flames into a full rebellion, President Alma Coin (Julianne Moore) from District 13 wants Katniss to become the face of the uprising. In the past, Katniss may have been equal to the task. But now she seems unable to conjure any emotion, at least until they take her back to District 12 to see her hometown lying in rubble. Still her fervor seems short-lived, if only because she is too emotionally exhausted to maintain her anger. This is a girl crying for help. Yet rather than being nurtured by compassionate adults, this teen becomes a mere pawn in the hands of those who want to further their own cause. The dialogue-heavy script, with a lack of action or real story advancement, makes the plot drag as well. Knowing how the novel (and presumably the film series) will end means Katniss needs to find herself before Part 2 begins. Right now she seems unable or unwilling to make her own decisions. If she is to become a force for good, Katniss will have to reignite the passion that made this hero a thorn in the side of the rose-wearing Snow.
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