Get tested DURING your pregnancy! Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a mother with syphilis passes the infection on to her baby during pregnancy.
Congenital syphilis is PREVENTABLE Congenital syphilis can cause: • Miscarriage (losing the baby during pregnancy), stillbirth (a baby born dead), or death shortly after birth. • Up to 40% of babies born to women with untreated syphilis may be stillborn, or die from the infection as a newborn. Babies born with congenital syphilis can have: Deformed bones, severe anemia (low blood count), enlarged liver and spleen, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), nerve problems, like blindness or deafness, meningitis and skin rashes.
Get tested 8 weeks BEFORE delivery!
For more information, go to cdc.gov/std/syphilis.
The Complete Education PROSPEC T I V E ST U DE N TS A N D PA R E N TS , PL E ASE JOI N US ! From Pre-K3 through 12th grade, STJ students, faculty, and administration work together to foster the potential of each child at Saint James School. Visit our state-of-the-art campus and you will see first-hand how your child’s education is enriched through experiential science, art, music, and world language labs.
Lunch Tours at STJ Let us show you around! Please join us for a mid-day tour (11am-1pm) in February. We know the time away from your child’s current school is valuable, so we hope you can slip away during lunch and join us for a tour. As you are leaving, we will have a to-go-lunch for your child. February 14 For students entering Grades 1-5 this Fall February 15 For students entering Grades 6-8 this Fall February 16 For students entering Grades 9-12 this Fall Please reserve your lunch tour by contacting Kate Bartlett at 334.273.3021, email admissions@stjweb.org, or go online to stjweb.org/admissions. All lunch tour reservations must be made by February 13, 2017.
Admissions Testing at STJ
Take advantage of our Saturday testing options for Fall 2017 rising 1st through 12th grade students. Call Laura Hassell at 334.273.2992 for complete testing and registration details. Testing for Grades 1-12 Saturday, March 4 (students must be registered for testing by February 24, 2017) Saturday, May 6 (students must be registered for testing by April 28, 2017)
Saint James School FOR PRE-K3 THROUGH 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS
334.273.3021
Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program. English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, color, gender, creed, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Recognized by Apple as a distinguished school for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence.
1
SJ01-36959 Parent's Ad Feb. 2017.indd 1
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
1/12/17 2:58 PM
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
2
www.montgomeryparents.com
om
3
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
F
S
Th is at
5
IF YOU WANT THEM TO DISCOVER THE POWER OF FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE,
we’re here for you.
Sunday Morning Small Groups - 9:15 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m.
4 7505 WaresParents Ferry IRoad Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334.396.9811 Montgomery February 2017
www.montgomeryparents.com easternoaks.org
1 a
M cr
ou.
om rg
February2017
Volume 22 Number 2
54 Columns
48
6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
Show Your Love!
The affection effect on marriage is important, and needs special attention during parenting years.
Diet Traps Every New Mom Faces Find out food fixes for the traps you may face as a new mom.
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen
36 Autauga Education Matters
58
by Superintendent Spence Agee
62
40 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis
46 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
52 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs
12 Ways to Support a New Mom
Meals, visits, chores, and other creative ways to help new moms.
2017 Baby Guide
Our new and expectant parents guide will lead you to all your local needs for “baby”.
61 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith
81 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
On The Cover Photographed with his father at the tender age of six weeks, Ethan Harrison is now eight months old. He is the son of Dr. Paul and Alamaze Harrison and has an older sister, Elyse (age 3). Ethan and Elyse attend Alfa Child Care and Development in Montgomery. Dr. Harrison serves as clinical faculty with the Montgomery Family Medicine Residency Program and Mrs. Harrison is a clinical dietician at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital. Ethan is sitting up and getting ready to crawl very soon. He squeals with excitement whenever his sister walks into the room!
5
Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 70 Calendar/Support Groups 84 Movie Reviews
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Editor’sNote I can’t think of anything more amazing than seeing a baby born into the world. I thought that back when I was having my own babies, and I still get teary every time I see it acted out on one of my favorite shows, Call the Midwife (BBC). Just the idea that a human life forms and grows inside a mother’s body blows my mind. It’s a beautiful experience having a baby, magical really. And they are so tiny and adorable. Just look at our cover again! Is there anything more precious? With all that preciousness we also get a big dose of life change in the form of worry, responsibility, lack of sleep, and the occasional inability to take a shower, but also joy, personal growth and love overflowing in our hearts for this little person. Having a baby is a milestone like no other, which is why we devote our February issue to all things BABIES! If you are preparing for your first or even your fifth baby, be sure to check out our New & Expectant Parents Guide. It’s a listing of local resources including pre- and post-natal care, baby boutiques, support groups and more. Another feature you won’t want to miss is Sandra Gordon’s Diet Traps Every New Mom Faces . She names the 10 most common traps and their corresponding “food fixes” so you can get back to your pre-baby weight sooner rather than later. Our Kids Health Watch column focuses on baby feedings, sleep habits and car seat safety. Even Growing Up Online is devoted to Guidelines for Tots and Tech, because we know it won’t be long before a screen of some sort is introduced to baby. Even if it’s just letting her hold your cell phone to keep calm in the grocery line! For those of us who are past having babies ourselves, Sarah Lyons shares 12 Ways to Support a New Mom with tried and true ideas, plus some new and creative ways we can help our friends. And Christina Katz’s article applies to all of us who are balancing family, work and the rest of life’s responsibilities while trying to keep a thriving and fulfilling marriage. Turn to page 48 and read Show Your Love! The Affection Effect on Marriage. This is one area Jason and I have focused on throughout our marriage and as we come up on our 23rd anniversary in March, I can tell you it has paid off BIG! We have made date nights a priority for the last 20 years, throwing in a weekend away together whenever possible, and it has kept our relationship strong in the midst of life’s many ups and downs. It may cost you a little money and effort to be consistent, but it will be worth way more than you can imagine! This month is the perfect time to show the love by starting this tradition with your spouse...Happy Valentine’s Day!
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 Malissa Hoy, M.D. Richard Dennis Sandra Gordon Mark Gregston Carolyn Jabs Christina Katz Sarah Lyons John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Lori Mercer www.lorimercerphotography.com Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Gena Hill Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson Heather Watts (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell
DeAnne
Member
deanne@montgomeryparents.com
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
6
Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2017 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.
www.montgomeryparents.com
urce
n the se, unity. nity ess.
Keep6123. g LLC. written mery cese an
om
7
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Correcting Toilet Training Setbacks Q: My 31-month-old has been out of diapers for at least 8 months during the day. She has been very good with toilet training until recently. Now she goes for a while without accidents and then a period of a week or so with at least one accident a day. I can see she needs to go, but when I ask her she says no. At this point, if I try to get her to go, she begins screaming and crying and resisting. If I’m able to get her to the bathroom, she wets herself as I’m taking off her pants. I can’t help but get angry with her because I have tried to prevent the accident. She seems to be going backward with toileting. How do you suggest I deal with this? A: There are three obvious problems here: First, you are asking her if she needs to use the toilet when she obviously needs to use the toilet. That question is provoking a negative response and things begin to cascade
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
from there. Many of today’s parents, I notice, have a habit of asking a question when they want a child to do something. “How about let’s pick up these toys now, okay?” actually means “I want you to pick up these toys now.” If that’s what the parent actually means, then that is what the parent should say. The question, because it implies that the child has a choice in the matter, is likely to result in pushback. Why would a child say he wants to pick up his toys if he has a say in the matter? The same is true of “Do you have to use the potty?” What you actually mean is “It’s time for you to use the potty.” Therefore, that is what you should say. Or, you can simply walk over to her, take her hand, say, “Come with me” and take her to the potty. Or—and this is my preferred recommendation—you simply say, “You need to use the potty” and walk away.
8
This approach would begin to defuse the power struggle you’ve created concerning this issue. The second problem is that you have to remove her clothing for her. A child who is having accidents (more accurately called “on-purposes) during the day should be wearing clothes she can remove without your help, and the fewer articles of clothing your daughter has to remove or pull down, the better. Make this as simple as possible for her. The third problem is your anger, which is fueling the power struggle and contributing to the downward spiral that you and your daughter are caught up in. You need some anger management, so here goes: When she has an “accident,” tell her that her doctor says she has to remain in the bathroom until she uses the potty correctly. Give her a cup full of water to hasten the process. Assigning the authority in the situation to a third party whose authority is already accepted by the child is a very strategic way of defusing a parent-child power struggle and getting things back on track. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions at www.johnrosemond.com and parentguru.com.
www.montgomeryparents.com
Alumnus holding MIT Degree \ Science Olympiad \ Character Building Programs \ Music and Art
g
d
g , e
h our e
cm
Spark curiosity.
of d
-
om
You want your child to be given the opportunity to explore the world around them. You want them to have an excellent guide. One who can inspire them to follow their natural curiosities. And spark the difference that will set them on their journey of academic success. This is Catholic. Montgomer y C atholic Preparator y S cho ol
Grades K4 - 12
9
montgomer ycatholic.org
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
February & March at the MPAC
For tickets, visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Shen Yun February 2 * 7:30 p.m.
Local Mardi Gras Celebrations
Run Wild at ANC’s Critter Crawl!
February 11 beginning at 9 a.m. The Alabama Nature Center (ANC) will host the Critter Crawl 5K trail run benefiting the ANC education programs and taking runners through a portion of the ANC’s trail system. There will also be a one-mile fun run beginning at 10 a.m. 5K starts at 9 a.m. and onemile starts at 10. Both races start and finish at the ANC NaturePlex. Sign up on active.com.
ADT Presents Princess Stories & More
Back by popular demand, Alabama Dance Theatre will present its 30th annual spring concert featuring The Princess Stories and More on Saturday, March 4, at 2:30 p.m. (shortened children’s matinee of “Princess Stories” only), Saturday, March 4, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 5, at 2:30 p.m. at Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Performance tickets are $15-$30. The action-packed Princess Stories feature “Pocahontas,” “Aladdin,” “The Sleeping Beauty” and the forerunner of a full-length “Beauty and the Beast.” The stories are colorful and exciting and will appeal to both boys and girls. For tickets, call (334)241-2800 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com. *After the Saturday matinee, children can meet the princesses onstage for an additional $10. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Prattville -- February 11 Family-friendly free event. Enjoy floats, antique cars, horses, dancers and lots of candy, beads and Moon Pies tossed to the crowd. Start out at 11 a.m. with children’s play area and food, arts and crafts. Then pick your favorite spot to enjoy the parade which starts at 2 p.m. The route will start in front of the Courthouse at 4th and Court Streets and follow Main Street through downtown, turn right on Northington Street, then left on Doster Road and end at the Stanley Jensen Stadium. For more info, call (334) 595-0854. Millbrook -- February 18 Vendors will be at the Village Green on Main Street and open at 9 a.m. Umbrella Stroll through the park Mardi Gras style at 10:15 a.m. with the big parade rolling out at NOON sharp! Visit www.millbrookrevelers.org.
Restless Heart February 9 * 7:30 p.m. Blackberry Smoke February 10 * 8 p.m. The Black Jacket Symphony presents “Queen -- A Night at the Opera” February 18 * 8 p.m.
10 Mir Ed Ro Blo
Foreigner February 19 * 7:30 p.m.
Wetumpka -- February 25 Hosted by The Order of the Cimarron 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. vendor booths are open at Gold Start Park. Parade begins at 1 p.m. through downton Wetumpka. Vendors contact Leeann at (334) 324-8667. For parade info, contact Grif Pritchard at (256) 496-0032. Mark Lowry February 25 * 7 p.m.
Montgomery Zoo Weekend Spring Fundraising Event March 11 &12 * 9 a.m.-6 p.m. both days Festive environment with live entertainment, games, rides, bouncy houses, big slides, pony and camel rides, petting zoo, karate demos, Montgomery Police K-9 presentation, live animal presentations, concessions and animals from around the world. Enjoy the many activities, fantastic food and have fun together at an affordable price. It is also an excellent opportunity to take advantage of discounted memberships. Call (334) 2404900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com. 10
M 2
Styx March 2 * 7:30 p.m. Rosa Parks Awards and Benefit Concert Featuring Sheila E. And Friends March 4 * 8 p.m. An Evening of Storytelling Garrison Keillor March 11 * 7 p.m. Smith/Doherty Present “Rockin’ Road To Dublin” March 12 * 7:30 p.m. Ron White March 16 * 8 p.m. www.montgomeryparents.com
and reg abl hin
por cog pla cov cha on Do and
on bas you
cle
AUM/CAAC Chinese New Year & Lantern Festival
February 11 * 2:30 p.m. Alcazar Shrine Temple, 555 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery. Admission for non-CAAC members, $12; CAAC members, $8; children ages 3-10, $5; children under 3, free. A dinner featuring traditional Chinese New Year delicacies will follow this year’s celebration. Before dinner, performers from AUMCI and CAAC will treat the audience to lively music and dancing, including youth and adult dragon dancing. To attend, RSVP by Feb. 6 to confucius@aum. edu or (334) 244-3012.
Montgomery Miracle League 2017 Spring Registration
Saturdays, February 11 AND 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (both Saturdays) at the Miracle League Field (Field 8) located at the Ed Thompson Complex on Ray Thorington Road, Montgomery (across the street from Blount Elementary and Carr Middle School.) Registration fee is $30 (covers uniform and trophy). PLEASE NOTE!! While there is a registration fee, many scholarships ARE available. PLEASE do not let the registration fee hinder your decision to allow your child to play! The Miracle League provides an opportunity for children with physical and/or cognitive disabilities to play baseball. They play on a special field with a soft, synthetic covering to accommodate walkers, wheelchairs, crutches, and those a little unsteady on their feet. They have players with Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Deaf, Blind, and Brain Injury, just to name a few. Coaches and buddies will be at the field on the days of registration, so bring your baseball player and let them practice while you fill out the forms! For more info, e-mail montgomerymiracleleague@gmail.com.
Montgomery Half Marathon and 5K
ASF Presents Because of Winn-Dixie
Through February 12 Based on the novel by Kate DiCamillo, this new musical is based on the Newberry honor children’s book of the same title. This charming story is all about a dog who brings new life and hope into a family as Opal Buloni and her preacher father settle in a new Southern town full of quirky characters. Recommended for ages nine and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
March 11 beginning at 7 a.m. Riverwalk Stadium - 200 Coosa St. Both courses are USATF certified. 7 a.m. Half Marathon begins 7:15 a.m. 5K begins 9 a.m.-2 p.m. EXPO, Awards & Entertainment NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION! Make sure you bring your bib to the race. Be sure to wear it in the front so the timing system can pick you up and the photographers know how to identify you. No bib, no race, no exceptions. Registration is $35 for the 5K and $45 for the Half. Military and 1st responders receive $5 discount. For more info, call (334) 356-7271 or visit themontgomeryhalf.com/.
rt
lor
om
11
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
You Just Had a Baby...What Now? The day has finally arrived. Your new bundle of joy is here. Now what? With so many questions flying through your head about how to take care of your new baby where do you start? First take a deep breath and enjoy your little one. Time will go faster than you realize so try and enjoy the moment. Here are a few things to help you out. Feeding--You have probably already done a lot of thinking about what you are going to feed your baby and depending on your own situation have decided whether you plan to breastfeed or give formula. Now you wonder how much your baby should eat. Most babies who breastfed will need 8-12 feedings a day and should have 6-10 wet diapers a day to show that they are getting enough to eat as well as be gaining weight. If you have any concerns about whether they are getting enough then talk with your pediatrician. Formula fed babies are similar to breast fed babies only you get to see how much they eat. Initially, they will eat 1.5 to 2 ounces and increase as they get bigger up to around 6-7 ounces per feed (28-32 ounces a day) by the time they are around 6 months old. As they grow they begin to space out the timing of
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
their feeds. Somewhere between 4-6 months you will introduce cereals and other baby food and then other foods eventually working up to three meals a day with snacks in between by around a year old. Be sure to discuss it with your doctor at your checkup visits. Car Safety--Everyone knows that children have to ride in car seats in cars but there are a lot of details that most people do not know too. Statistics show that 72-84% of car seats are misused. The most common errors are the wrong seat for a child’s age and weight, not properly installed, and the child’s straps not tight enough. Parents should be sure to read the instruction manual for their seat and ensure they are following the directions. Car seats recommendations have changed over the years. Today it is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics to keep children rear facing until they have outgrown the height and weight restrictions their rear facing seat which is somewhere around 2-3 years old for many seats. After that a forward facing seat should be used until they have out grown it. Finally, a booster seat should be used until the child is 57 inches tall and fits in the car’s seat belt properly. A good resource to use if
12
you need more information is thecarseatlady. com. She discusses all aspects of car seats and boosters and how to know when your child is ready to move to the regular seat. Sleep--Your child will start out sleeping away most of the day and it is important that he or she remain safe during that time. A safe sleep space free from blankets, bumpers, pillows, or other items is ideal for your baby. If you are worried about your child getting cold just be sure to dress them in warm pajamas. To help reduce the risk of SIDS further it is recommended that your child sleep on his or her back and while this can sometimes be difficult and may take some time for your child to get used to, it is an important safety step as parents. Having a child is a big responsibility with many things to consider. We have only touched a few of the more important topics that parents need to know. Please be sure to talk with your doctor often about any concerns or questions you have. It could save a life. Dr. Malissa Hoy was born in Montgomery. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa and earned her medical degree from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, West Virginia in 2007. She completed her Pediatrics Residency in Detroit, Michigan at St. John Hospital and Medical Center. Malissa is happily married to Jade and they have two children.
www.montgomeryparents.com
Let’s get you back in the game, together.
y. s
t fe
If d .
or
ild as
o rns
her -
a t, is
om
Knowledge that will change your world
Specializing In
Robotic surgery Kidney stones
UAB Medicine Urology Don’t let a urologic problem disrupt or endanger your life. Central Alabama’s newest urology center is the UAB Medicine Multispecialty Clinic at Baptist Medical Center South. With specially trained UAB
Female pelvic floor reconstruction
doctors and a compassionate clinical staff from Baptist Health providing
Prostate cancer
the highest quality of care for every major urologic health concern, from
Urogynecology
incontinence to cancer.
334.613.7070 MULTISPECIALTY CLINIC BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER SOUTH
UABmedicine-Baptist.com/urology 2119 East South Blvd, east of the Emergency entrance at Baptist South
13
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
T
Living Out Black History Month Black History Month began in 1976 with a focus on African-American contributions to society; a weeklong celebration had begun fifty years earlier. The original week was selected in February to honor two Americans who had a tremendous impact on African Americans; their legacy continues to offer great benefits to our understanding of United States History and its people; the two, Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglas. Overtime, this celebration has highlighted many great African American scientists, inventors, poets, artists, educators and the like, who have changed
the face of America, making life better for all. Some remain virtually unknown and were left out of history books. We all know of the contributions of George Washington Carver and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. However, have you ever heard of Otis Boykin? Mr. Boykin invented an improved electrical resistor used in computers, radios, TVs and a variety of other devices. George Carruthers’ work focused on ultraviolet observations of the earth’s upper atmosphere and he developed the moon-based observatory that was carried there by Apollo 16. And in 1853 George Crum invented the potato chip. The list can expand to include thousands of known and unknown African American, U. S. citizens and abroad, who impacted the vitality of our country. But let’s bring this conversation home. Living right here in Montgomery, Alabama today are African Americans who are shaping our now and our future by daily exerting their talents, creativity, and productivity for the good of all. Right here we see them pushing through to right and better
ideas and concepts for the benefit of all. We have an opportunity to say thank you to these local citizens who are shining the light on what it means to make life better for others. Black History Month adds value to our focus on mankind as we note the struggles and the joys that we all have in common – no matter our race. This is a great time to have a conversation with our children about diversity’s human factor. We can talk to them about the past and we can demonstrate to them how unique servants can walk, live and work side by side to advance a cause. But more than that we can pause to say to each child, “You are important to the future of our city and country and you are important to me!”
M S
2
H
J
L
G
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.
Mending kids’ hearts It’s what we do best. Our team of more than 250 pediatric professionals is recognized for its excellence by U.S. News & World Report. From tiny babies to teens, we care for Tucker and Mei Mei and every child as if that child were our own.
R
b 22 Board-certified physicians and surgeons b 425 cardiac surgeries annually b 31 heart transplants over the past four years, with a greater than 90%one-year survival rate b 99% survival rate for all surgical patients in 2016 b 20 private CVICU rooms, 16 private CCU rooms, 2 CV operating rooms and 2 cath labs
Pediatric & Congenital
HEART Center of
A l a ba m a
PEDIATRIC CARDIOVASCULAR SERVICES
Learn how you can help. Visit www.ChildrensAL.org/heart For Children’s Financial Assistance information contact 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
14
www.montgomeryparents.com
l. ou
t r
r-
m
e
THE ADVENTURES IN
Launch a Rocket
Math & Science
Kayak in Mobile Bay Build a Robot
Solve a Crime
2017 Summer Camp Sessions
Hosted by the Alabama School of Math and Science June 5-9, June 12-16, & June 19-23
Prepare for the ACT Day & Overnight Camp
Located in Mobile, AL Grades 6-10
sa rasly n m
om
Register Online Early to Save!
Register by April 1: $360 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $260 Day Camp (includes lunch) Register after April 1: $385 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $285 Day Camp (includes lunch) The cost to stay the weekend between Sessions 1 and 2 is an additional $185 (includes trip to water park) Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at WWW.ASMS.NET . COURSE SAMPLING ACT Prep, Algebra Review, Exploring Inner Space, Marine Biology, CSI: Mobile, Phun Physics, Using Java, Robotics, Field Biology, Psychology, Math Puzzles, Labs of Doom, Rocketry, Origami, Speak Up, Light Metals and Enameling, Apps for Smart Devices, and many more.
1255 Dauphin St. • Mobile, AL 36604 • 251.441.2100 • www.asms.net • aims@asms.net 15
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
Alford Wins Montgomery Academy Geography Bee
Forest Avenue Student Council Hosts Book Drive
“Our Student Council wants a ‘Blue Ribbon’ Library for their ‘Blue Ribbon School!’” read a flyer announcing a schoolwide book drive from January 9-20 for the Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School library. Forest Avenue students work hard to achieve high academic goals throughout the year so the Student Council wants to ensure the library meets both students’ needs and wants. Popular titles on the wish list included Pete the Cat series, 2017 Time for Kids Almanac and Gone Crazy in Alabama. Students also sought fresh copies of other well-loved books including Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Amelia Bedelia. The book drive was hugely successful. Students collected 453 books and raised $470 for the library.
Macon East Participates in AISA Drama Competition
The Macon East Academy drama club participated in the Alabama Independent School Association District Drama competition at Huntingdon College. Eighth-grade student Katherine Kirk placed third for her monologue “The Stepsister Speaks Out,” based on Cinderella’s stepsister. The Macon East drama department competed in four categories at the district event, including solo acting, duet acting, ensemble, and musical drama. Kirk will represent Macon East at the upcoming AISA State Drama Festival at Faulkner University. The drama club is currently preparing for Peter Pan as this year’s annual spring play. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Montgomery Academy sixthgrader Jane Abbie Alford has won the 2016-17 schoolwide Geography Bee. Runner-up was seventh-grader McLeod Blount. Alford will go on to take the National Geographic Society’s written exam for the opportunity to compete at the state level. Other students who took part in the Geography Bee include fourth-graders Nathan Applegate and John Carson Bullard; fifth-graders Will Gallion and Ron Sharma; sixth-grader Campbell Long; seventh-grader Parker Roth; and eighth-grader Sikes Blount and Alex Budny.
Trinity’s Undefeated Boys Basketball Team Wins Capital City Class Tournament
The Trinity Wildcats were undefeated, but as the Championship Game of the 2016 Capital City Class wound down, they were down to their last out. Trailing by three points and with 10 seconds to go, Head Coach Jack Schweers called a play the team has run for 24 years. It didn’t go exactly according to plan, but close enough as sophomore Charlie Lott drained a 3 to send the game into overtime, where the Cats prevailed 44-42. Trinity was down the entire game, by as much as 9 in the 4th quarter, and 4 down with less than 3:00 to go when Luke Hufham had a thunderous dunk on a pass from Lott that ignited the Trinity fans. Lott stroked another 3 midway of the OT to put Trinity up by 4 briefly, but Prattville Christian Academy cut it to 43-40 on a Cooper Meadows free throw. PCA fouled Lott with :07 to go and he made 1 to make it 44-40. Trinity allowed PCA to score as time ran out to make it a final of 44-42. Lott led Trinity with 17 points and was named to the All-Tournament team with Hufham, who had another double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Senior guard James Wilder was named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament.
16
www.montgomeryparents.com
e
tal
3
ut ott o
er
om
17
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
Holy Cross Episcopal School Buddy Program Explores ‘Glyph’ Activity
Medieval Monks Come to Cornerstone
As part of their history study on the Middle Ages, students in Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s second-grade class turned their classroom into a scriptorium at the monastery. Students entered their classroom and upon taking a vow of silence completed a handwriting assignment by candlelight. Their writing assignment included writing their names in the medieval manuscript and experimenting with illumination of letters. During the course of their study, the students also made a family coat of arms and listened to Gregorian chants.
Holy Cross Episcopal School kindergarten students and their teacher Donna Lee, and sixth-grade buddies accompanied by their teacher Patricia Bye, gathered together to create a “glyph” snowman activity in preparation for what could have been the season’s first snowfall, with discussions swirling around the possibility! When gathering together to create a “Buddy Project,” the sixth-graders encourage, enthusiastically model instruction, and help cut or paste small project pieces that are more difficult for little hands as fine motor skills are in the process of developing. At Holy Cross, teachers are always using the latest trends in research for the most effective methods to teach and present activities. A “glyph” is a symbol used in instructional activities that conveys information non-verbally, and is extremely useful for younger students who are in the process of learning how to compose and formulate writing complex explanations, while fostering deeper thinking and creative imagination skills. From left are Reagan Smith, Zella Champlin and Allie Troy.
Because you want them to have the world, and more. And because they fly higher when you become stronger.
At Frazer, we know that participating in a community of faith isn’t something you do only for yourself. It would be easy to sleep in on Sundays—or catch up on the million other things on your to-do list. But making space to encounter God in worship might just be worth the effort— for yourself, and for the people in your life that are riding on your shoulders. Why not check it out this Sunday?
18
On res Am Ye inc sor Ab Ma
WORSHIP TIMES (two locations) 8, 9:30, 11am on Atlanta Highway 10am in the Pike Road School
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR CHILDREN’S, STUDENTS’ AND FAMIILY MINISTRIES AT WWW.FRAZER.CHURCH.
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Th tea Th we eig All pla an All Du ley wa Sh AC wa of
www.montgomeryparents.com
on exp
ra
than e -
a r-
s
ys y he r-
om
ACA Athletes Chosen For All-Metro Teams
The Montgomery Advertiser All-Metro sports teams are always considered a huge honor. This year Alabama Christian Academy was well represented in the 1A-4A division with eight players and coaches being named to All-Metro first and second teams. Football players Alden Stroud, Hunter Hanson, and DeMarvin Perry were named 1st team All-Metro, with Dusty Young and Jackson Duke being named honorable mentions. Volleyball player Darcy Sanford, shown above, was named 1st team All-Metro, with Gracie Shaddix being named honorable mention. ACA head volleyball coach Manuel Guice was named All-Metro 1A-4A Volleyball Coach of the Year as well.
Hooper Cheerleader Visits London
On January 1, Madeline Maxwell represented Hooper Academy as a UCA All American in the London, England, New Year’s Day parade. She enjoyed tours that included visiting the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Big Ben. Maxwell attended the musical Wicked, took a cruise down the Thames River, shopped at Harrod’s, rode on a double-decker bus and walked on London’s Tower bridge. She performed with other All Americans from all across America in the two-mile long televised parade on New Year’s Day. It was an incredible experience and a magnificent trip! 19
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
MA Coach Recognized at National Conference
Montgomery Academy Volleyball Coach Julie Gordon was recently recognized for her 1300th career victory at the American Volleyball Coaches Association national conference in December.
A
Ma sel As Ye an this sta wit line lea Sh ish ma the
Author Returns to Trinity for Book Signing
Trinity Presbyterian Lower School students enjoyed a special reading of Amos Bounces Back by author Margaret Lowder. She was at Trinity for a book signing and brought her trusty sidekick and superhero, Amos the dog. He loved his new red “Super T� Trinity cape! Children were delighted to meet Amos and hear about his wonderful adventures. Amos Bounces Back: A Tale of Too Much TV explores the benefits of being in the great outdoors.
Su
Stu sev ou wh ski de sym ma fun are Th cla Montgomery Parents I February 2017
20
www.montgomeryparents.com
at
lie
yce
om
MEA’s Nesbitt Named AISA All-Metro Volleyball Player of the Year
Macon East Academy’s Sami Nesbitt was selected as the Alabama Independent School Association All-Metro Volleyball Player of the Year. Nesbitt is a 5-foot-8 senior outside hitter and the Lady Knights’ only returning starter this season. Coming off its fifth consecutive state title, the team was facing an uphill battle with a new coach and the loss of its starting line-up. Nesbitt stepped forward as the senior leader of the team and finished with 130 kills. She led the Knights to a state runner-up finish in the AISA Class AA state championship match at Faulkner University and represented the team in the AISA All-Star game.
GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME
Evangel Christian Academy Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education. Our desire is to help each child achieve their God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11
Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA
N O W E N R O L L I N G K4-12 2017-2018
3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882
For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office
Success Unlimited Students Think Outside the Box
Students in Sharion Vandervort’s sixth- and seventh-grade math class were able to “think outside the box” and show their creativity while learning to take simple math graphing skills to make beautiful art projects. Students designed snowflakes, Santa Clauses, and symmetric and geometric stars. “Taking math to a level that makes it applicable and fun sometimes makes students forget we are having math class,” Vandervort said. The students displayed their math art in the classroom.
21
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
F
ath
Montgomery County Schools
Ka Ye Cla in C Cro
Service at the Heart of Alabama Christian
Middle school students at Alabama Christian Academy collected canned foods to donate to the local area food bank. Approximately 1,800 cans were collected over two weeks. The students were excited about the opportunity to give back to the community and help others during the holiday season.
(W Do gu to ba
Ka
son
Macon East Sixth-Graders Go Caroling at Montgomery Cancer Center
The Macon East Academy sixth-grade students and their music teacher, Michelle Lott, enjoyed a morning of caroling at the Montgomery Cancer Center in December. It was a special time to spread some Christmas cheer to the patients as they waited for their appointments.
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
22
www.montgomeryparents.com
Four Montgomery Catholic Athletes Named All-State
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School announces All-Metro honors for sixteen fall athletes, including four who also achieved All-State status. All-Metro cross country runners from Montgomery Catholic include: Isabelle Cochran, Katie Galvin, Zachary Kroeger, Grace Leslie, Grant Walker and Female Runner of the Year Amaris Tyynismaa. Tyynismaa won her third straight AHSAA state title by winning the Class 4A State meet with a time of 18:07.76, making her the fastest high school female runner in Class 4A. She was also named to the Super All-State team for her efforts during the 2016 Cross Country season. All-Metro football players for 2016 included: Offense - Tyler Price (RB), David Poole (WR), Brian Anderson (OL) and Saxton Bibbins (OL) and honorable mention to Trey Downes (WR). Defense - CJ Persons (DL), BJ Barker (DB) and Josh Davis (P). Offensive guard Anderson was also named first team All-State, Class 4A along with kicker Davis named to second team and wide-receiver Poole, who received honorable mention by the 2016 Alabama Sports Writers Association. All-Metro volleyball players included Iyana Tate (second team) with honorable mention to Kayanna McKenzie. From left are Montgomery Catholic’s All-State athletes, Amaris Tyynismaa, Brian Anderson, Josh Davis and David Poole.
,
om
Tyynismaa
Anderson
Davis
Poole
23
Montgomery Academy Students Win State Acting Tournament
Montgomery Academy seniors William Wilson and Mason Little and junior James Chambers won First Place in Novice Group Acting at the State Trumbauer Theater Festival in December. Their scene was about three baseball players in the locker room after another loss at Division III school Kenyon College. The students are not allowed props or costumes for this event. They are under the direction of Scott Bowman.
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
Forest Avenue Honors High Academic Achievers
On Jan. 19, Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School hosted a series of grade-level honors day programs to celebrate students who made the honor roll during the first and second nine weeks. The top point earners for the Accelerated Reader program were also recognized. Proud parents were in attendance to congratulate the students and take pictures of them with their ribbons and certificates.
an Ac
avi Am tion mo for
rep ide
AM sur ima tog ma
ACA Swimmer Wins at State Swim Meet
Alabama Christian Academy junior Trey McGuire qualified and placed at the State Swim Meet held at Auburn University in early December. He placed 2nd overall in the 100 meter Breaststroke and 6th overall in the 50 meter Freestyle.
Holy Cross Pre-K Mixes Science with Phonics
At Holy Cross Episcopal School, students in pre-K recently learned a bit of science with their daily phonics lesson. Students explored pineapples to determine what they look like inside and out, where they can be found growing, and if they have seeds inside. First, the students deduced that since a pineapple is a fruit, it must have seeds. Each student hypothesized what the seeds might look like and if it might be possible to plant them to grow other pineapples. To cut a pineapple open, the students learned that first the top is cut off horizontally and the skin cut off vertically top to bottom to expose the beautiful golden soft fruit inside. After the outer layer is cut away, the students observed the seeds embedded inside the fruit and discovered they were small and brown and were able to remove them before eating the slices. Finally, after an investigation to determine where pineapples grow, a further exploration revealed that they grow on ground level in beautiful tropical green fields. Above are Eli Meeks and Luna Pearson. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Montgomery Academy Students Travel to Italy
Forty-four students and six chaperones spent ten days in Italy over Montgomery Academy’s Thanksgiving break. Instead of turkey and dressing on Thanksgiving Day, the group enjoyed an authentic pizza dinner and, while students and adults missed being home for Thanksgiving, they experienced the trip of a lifetime. The trip began with the flight landing on the short airstrip in the waters around Venice. Students experienced Venetian life: a cab ride down the canals, gelati, a glassblowing demonstration of the world-famous Murano glass, shopping on the Rialto Bridge, a visit to St. Mark’s Church and dodging pigeons in St. Mark’s Square. The next stop was Florence, where the group saw Michaelangelo’s “David” sculpture, visited the Duomo and the Church of Santa Croce, saw a few of the many works of art in the Uffizi gallery, ate more gelati, shopped in the street markets and leather stores, and rubbed the nose of a boar (a tradition to ensure that a person will return to Florence one day). The next day was a travel day, as the group headed down the interstate past Rome to the coast south of Naples. There was one stop in Orvieto, a small town from the Medieval past, to see another era of Italian history. That evening the group arrived in Sorrento and strolled through the streets enjoying the sights and sounds of this resort town, and, of course, more gelati. The next day everyone traveled by ferry over to the Isle of Capri, where they enjoyed a relaxing lunch overlooking the beautiful Bay of Naples. That night, back in Sorrento, the students learned the traditional Italian dance, the Tarantella. The next morning, the group toured the ancient city of Pompeii, where students were impressed both with the level of the Roman civilization and the intensity of the volcanic disaster. On the way to Rome, they were able to drive part of the way up Mount Vesuvius and then hike the rest of the way to the top of the volcano. Finally, the group arrived in Rome, where everyone enjoyed more pizza, pasta and gelati. They spent time at the Vatican, seeing the magnificent Sistine Chapel and then visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica. The Colosseum was quite impressive, and the Forum reminded everyone of the Roman legacy. The Pantheon represented geometric perfection. The students tossed coins into the Trevi Fountain to determine their future. They saw the unusual spectacle of the bones of the Capuchin monks on display in the crypt below their church. After a walk up the many Spanish Steps, everyone was ready to head for home the next day. 24
www.montgomeryparents.com
e
h
Alabama School of Math & Science Students Participate in National Flight Academy
As a result of the collaborative effort between the Mobile Airport Authority Foundation and Brookley Aeroplex companies, 36 students will be sponsored to attend the National Flight Academy’s six-day Deployment program on June 4. The Brookley Aeroplex STEM Initiative is a collaborative effort of the Brookley Aeroplex aviation business community and funded through sponsorship from Continental Motors, Airbus Americas, VT Mobile Aerospace Engineering, Alabama Power, Star Aviation, Signature Aviation and the Mobile Airport Authority Foundation. The total sponsorship investment has raised more than $50,000 and funding covers the six-day deployment tuition and bus transportation for all students to the facility. Using a competitive application process, the Brookley Aeroplex sponsors, along with representatives from B.C. Rain High School and the Alabama School of Math and Science, will identify participating children in 10th and 11th grades. The National Flight Academy’s adventure begins on a landlocked, virtual aircraft carrier, AMBITION (CVT-11). Students live aboard for six days and experience theme park-style thrills surrounded by advanced technology, flight simulators and virtual reality missions that ignite imagination and encourage learning. This partnership allows the above organizations to work together to inspire and engage students in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics with a goal of promoting workforce development.
MEA’s Brown Signs to Play Softball Macon East softball player Cadey Brown signed to play next year at Alabama Southern Community College. Brown transferred to MEA in the 9th grade to join the Lady Knights championship softball program and hopes to help the team pick up its sixth consecutive title this spring. She is the fourth senior on the 2017 Lady Knights team to commit and is excited to continue doing what she loves on the softball field during her college years.
Send Your School News and photos to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
ns
he
he to
, ever
nch ay k
an
ty s
-
he est
ti.
e
om
25
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
stu ma an
ECA Students Spread Cheer at Children’s
Evangel Christian Academy’s Student Government Association recently brightened the day of several children who were fighting various childhood illnesses. The SGA collected and took books and toys to the Christmas store at Children’s Hospital. The store provides an opportunity for the children’s parents to buy gifts for the young patients since many parents are unable to leave the hospital to shop. Proceeds from the store are given back to the hospital. Children’s Hospital Representative Alice Blake took the ECA students on a tour of the facilities. Students who helped deliver the toys and books were Makenzie Whatley, Oaklee Williams, Caleb Rigsby, JoEllen Whitfield, Mary Mac Loughridge and Alaina Horton. ECA’s faculty SGA representative, Alexis Moorer, was also present.
of els sh Kn
Ch nin Mid Th inc
Academy Students Celebrate Hour of Code
Montgomery Academy sixth-grade students recently celebrated “The Hour of Code,” a series of activities designed to introduce students to the concepts behind computer coding. Not only do students learn more about how computer languages work through these exercises, but they also learned more about logic and breaking down complex tasks into smaller steps. The students participated in a BREAKOUT EDU experience that required them to develop their critical thinking, logic and problem-solving skills AND...they had fun as well!
no exp to
the eva
an cid
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
26
www.montgomeryparents.com
Christmas Performances Abound at Trinity
Trinity Presbyterian School’s Fine Arts Department entertained students and parents in the closing weeks of school before Christmas break with several memorable performances, including dance and music productions. The dance department continued its tradition of bringing a series of collaborative performances by Trinity dance students across all levels to the stage in the annual ‘Twas the Night, while the Show Choir, shown below, performed several songs, including “Mary, Did You Know,” and an inspiring rendition of Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” The sounds of the season filled the halls of Trinity with a lively Christmas concert from the music department. The fifth-grade Beginning Band entertained with several holiday selections, while the Middle School Concert Band performed other Christmas melodies. The Symphonic Band concluded the concert with familiar tunes, including a rendition of “Jingle Bells.”
de
e
,
om
Holy Cross Teachers Attend Tech Training
Teachers at Holy Cross Episcopal School recently attended technology inservice training, in which they were given the opportunity to explore the latest instructional apps for pre-K through 6th grade to use to supplement their curriculum and lessons. Technology teacher Amber Griffith demonstrated and introduced the most current, academically advanced apps which were the most relevant and appropriate for each grade level to make learning engaging. At the conclusion of the training, each teacher left equipped with an instructional plan of downloaded apps, individually designed to coincide with upcoming curriculum studies and advanced student progress.
27
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
ac yea tion an Pro Ele
for Ha tion
Forest Avenue Hosts First-Ever Open House
Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School’s inaugural Open House on January 17 attracted more than 120 Montgomery County families. In line with the event’s theme, “What’s Your Character,” prospective students for the 2017-18 school year were greeted by some of their favorite characters, including Elsa, Batman, Superman and others. While children enjoyed a variety of fun activities in the school library, parents had an opportunity to hear more about the school’s offerings from Principal Emily Renfroe Little and PTA President Kelli Newman. A panel made up of current parents and a Forest Avenue alum shared personal testimonies. Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange also attended the event and explained to parents why Forest Avenue is a great choice for their children’s education. Following the presentations, parents were able to meet teachers from all grade levels and tour classrooms. The event was well received by guest families, who said they were especially impressed by the school’s facilities and teachers. Forest Avenue is an academic accelerated magnet program. Last year, the U.S. Department of Education recognized Forest Avenue as a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School, an annual award given to schools where students achieve very high learning standards or make notable improvements in closing the achievement gap. It is the second time Forest Avenue has received the designation since becoming a full-fledged magnet elementary school in 2001. More information about the school is available at: www. forestave.mps-al.org. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
28
www.montgomeryparents.com
me, ts y
Macon East Students Give Back
Each year Macon East Academy’s lower school classes adopt a charitable organization to help during the holiday season. This year’s charities included coats and blankets for Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless, supplies for the Montgomery Humane Shelter, and books and pajamas for the Scholastic Book Club and Pajama Program. The students also collected food in partnership with Dixie Electric and WSFA-12’s Day of Giving. Below left, Mrs. York’s first-grade class is shown presenting gifts for the Montgomery Humane Shelter to Mary Hughes and her dog Harvey. At right, the third- and fifth-grade classes delivered their donations to the Montgomery Baptist Association’s annual toy drive.
Send Your School News and photos to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
an s le
eir a-
ed
-
t
n nd et
om
29
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Jam ha his yar rus Jo Un
Montgomery County Schools
Montgomery Academy Students Compete in Model UN
Montgomery Academy Upper School students competed in a Model UN Conference at Columbia University in January. During their trip to New York City, the students had the opportunity to visit the Latvian Mission, enjoyed a tour of New York University with MA and NYU graduate Taylor Turner and a tour of Columbia University with MA and Columbia graduate Alex Katz.
jou ca In gu
you str Pe go ing
Success Unlimited Academy ‘Rocked’ Holiday Market The Success Unlimited Academy Choral Department “rocked” the 2016 Junior League Holiday Market with a rousing rendition of “Rock the Holly!” The group comprised of students from sixth through 12th grades performed a variety of holiday numbers with origins from Trinidad to Germany. This was SUA’s second time performing for the annual event. “These community performances are a wonderful way to provide greater visibility for our school’s Fine Arts Program,” said SUA Fine Arts Director Benita Edwards. The choir performed in January at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre as part of National School Choice Week.
Holy Cross Episcopal School Travels Back in History to the 1960s
Walking down the halls and into the classrooms of Holy Cross Episcopal School, one would think he had traveled back in time to the 1960s to be a part of that unique era in the history of our country. The official kick-off of this decade study began with the entire school gathering together to learn about the 1960s with music, a display of retro items on exhibit, and an historically informative PowerPoint presentation presented by technology teacher Amber Griffith. The interactive demonstration featured the historical significance of that time, a musical medley of songs featuring musical groups that were so iconic, and even a how-to dance video the students could experience. The highlight of the launch was when the students got to experience what it was like to go to a “drive-in” and visit a “concession stand” to enjoy popcorn accompanied by one of the decade’s inventions created by NASA for astronauts – the famous fruit-flavored powdered drink Tang. They then returned to watch the ‘60s movie The Jetsons on a giant screen in Melanie Kelley Hall. In the coming weeks, each grade level will take one aspect of the decade to study and present, such as the 5th and 6th grades’ creation of a “wax museum” display of historical figures. Other grades will explore art, music, food, fashions and even transportation of the illustrious era. From left are third-graders Reese Webb and Kylie Cook, with Meg Stough at the bottom. Their teacher is Kathy Black, above. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com
Cornerstone Participates in Community Service
On January 13, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy commemorated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with its annual Community Service. Each year, Cornerstone students use this day to donate time and services to nonprofit organizations throughout the Montgomery community. This year, the older students served Every Tribe Ministries led by Bryant and Hallay Cagle. Younger students stuffed goody bags to provide to the Mixtec people through this ministry, and they also created Valentines that will be sent to Morningview Baptist Church members who are homebound as well as to local retirement homes. These service opportunities allow our students a tangible opportunity to serve others “as Jesus Christ served us.” 30
www.montgomeryparents.com
Sc gre com rec the na two pla Mo go Ye
joy
he s er-
s
Saint James School Rushes By Competition
For the past five years, under the direction of Head Football Coach Jimmy Perry, Saint James School has produced a 1,000+ yard rusher each season. And in 2016, the Trojans hailed not one, but two, 1,000+ yard rushers. As an unprecedented accomplishment in school history, senior Blake Underwood and sophomore Tony Amerson each surpassed the 1,000yard mark during the regular season this fall. Prior to that, Frank Moody ‘14 set a school rushing record with his 1,740-yard 2013 season complimented by his 1,038-yard 2012 season. Jonathan Robinson ’15 was just under Moody with 1,437 yards rushing in 2014, followed by Underwood in 2015 with 1,148 yards rushing. The offensive line has rushed the distance of nearly seven miles in five years. And on that journey, other stars were born. SEC players Jalen Harris ’15 (Auburn University) and CJ Duncan ’13 (Vanderbilt University) honed their skills under Coach Perry’s direction at Saint James. In interviews after their Saturday games, they both compliment the coaching, mentoring and guidance they received at Saint James School. “I work every day to develop character in these young people, teaching them to keep their priorities straight, and always working to improve themselves,” Perry said. “I continue to remind them that they can go anywhere if they keep their focus and keep working toward their goals.” Throughout the history of the Saint James School football program, the Trojans have earned great success and been recognized for their accomplishments as a team and as individuals. Most recently, the team has had two players named to the Alabama/Mississippi All Star Game; 11 players named to the 2016 Capital City All Conference Team; two players named to the 2016 All State Team; eight players named to the 2016 All-Metro Football Team; Montgomery Metro 2016 Player of the Year; 2016 Conference Coach of the Year; 2016 Montgomery Metro Coach of the Year; Alabama Football Coaches Association 2016 Coach of the Year; and the 2016 Montgomery Quarter Back Club Coach of the Year. Shown, STJ Head Football Coach Jimmy Perry and Assistant Coach Nelson Hall enjoy an exciting win with the Trojans during the 2016 season. Photo credit: Bryan Hubbard
School Performances Offered for Princess Stories
Alabama Dance Theatre will offer special school performances of The Princess Stories on Friday, March 3, at 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. at Troy University’s Davis Theatre at special prices of $7 per child. Performances are geared toward school-age children in the River Region. The action-packed Princess Stories features “Pocahontas,” “Aladdin,” “The Sleeping Beauty” and the forerunner of a full-length “Beauty and the Beast.” The stories are colorful and exciting and will appeal to both boys and girls. Make your reservations now by calling (334) 241-2590 or e-mail Brenda Dennis at adtdance1@gmail.com.
ts
me
es gs
y
om
31
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
Montgomery Academy Students Provide Christmas Gifts for Brantwood Residents
The Montgomery Academy Community Service Club, H.E.A.R.T. (Helping Eagles Are Right There) provided 28 residents at Brantwood Children’s Home a very Merry Christmas! Under H.E.A.R.T.’s coordination, Middle and Upper School students, faculty and staff members shopped, wrapped and delivered gifts from each child’s “wish list” just in time for Christmas morning. This is the seventh consecutive year Montgomery Academy has been a part of this special project.
ACA Baseball Players Spread Christmas Cheer
Members of the Alabama Christian Academy baseball team helped spread the joy of Christmas season to fellow members of Montgomery. The team decorated houses, helped hang Christmas lights, and served a holiday meal to McGinnis School. These boys really bought into the ACA mission of “Thrive in Wisdom, Serve in Spirit.” Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
32
www.montgomeryparents.com
spe vis stu stu are Min thr
ac as and lum ible
Co cry
r
a oys ve
om
Geology Experts Visit Holy Cross
Holy Cross was so fortunate to have special Geology experts Al and Sue Medina visit to speak to Mrs. Kathy Black’s Third Grade students who have recently completed a unit of study of rocks and minerals. Mr.and Mrs. Medina are members of the Montgomery Gem and Mineral Society and enjoy speaking to students throughout the River Region. Mr. and Mrs. Medina shared with the class a collection of rocks that were displayed under a special ultraviolet light. These certain crystals and stones almost glow as the ultraviolet rays illuminate them to expose the most beautifully visible colors our eyes can’t see in normal sunlight. L to R: Third graders Robert Marshall, Colby Lahanse, Jacob Kendall view beautiful crystals and stones under a black light.
Alabama DisABILITY Conference Scheduled for February
The Arc of Alabama, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to advocacy and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), their families and caregivers, in partnership with the 29 chapters state-wide of The Arc, announces the 2017 Alabama disABILITY Conference. The conference will be held February 26-28 at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa Convention Center in Montgomery. The conference will provide a lineup of speakers chosen to accomplish key goals, as follows: raise expectations for people with I/DD regarding more inclusive communities such that all people of all abilities are engaged in life areas such as employment, housing, learning, recreation and leisure, spirituality, healthy living, relationships, and accessibility; help self-advocates and families navigate resources needed to meet these expectations, working together to coordinate resources and build support systems to ensure self-advocates and caregivers know about these resources; ensure people with I/DD achieve success and can celebrate these results through outcomebased planning to get results in areas of advocacy, financial planning, health care, education, making choices, transition from school to community, public policy, etc. Another element of the conference will be recognition of individuals, groups, businesses, and other organizations for their contributions to creating inclusive opportunities or having a significant impact in the area of serving people with I/DD and their families. The awards to be presented include the following: Inclusive Employer, Exemplary Educator, Distinguished Direct Support Professional, Employee of the Year, Family of the Year and Distinguished Advocate of the Year. The Arc of Alabama was founded in 1957 and is the largest organization in Alabama dedicated solely to advocating for the rights and needs of children and adults with cognitive, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. The Arc of Alabama and the 29 local chapters are affiliated with The Arc of The United States and support its positions that reflect the value of and respect for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Conference details and registration information available at www.aldisabilityconference.org.
Chapel • Ar t • Music • Spanish • STEM • Librar y • Spor ts Theatre • 21 st Centur y Computing • Accelerated Reader
H��� Cros� ha� i� ���!
K4 - 6TH GRADE
NOW ENROLLING! CALL US TODAY! ESL AVAILABLE | ESL 강좌 개설 Active duty military, first responder, and multiple child discount. We accept the Alabama Opportunity Scholarship and Scholarships for Kids. Ask us about financial aid opportunities.
4400 Bell Road | Montgomery, AL 36116 | 334-395-8222 | holycrossmontgomery.org
Holy Cross Episcopal School is accredited by AdvancED (formerly SACS) and the Southern Association of Independent Schools We are a proud member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools
HOLY CROSS ADMITS STUDENTS OF ANY RACE, RELIGION, AND NATIONAL OR ETHNIC ORIGIN. 33
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
Saint James School National Merit Semifinalists & Commended Students Lead Independent Schools in Montgomery
Four Saint James School Seniors were named 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists, and four Saint James School Seniors have been named 2017 National Merit Commended Students. This group of 8 nationally recognized students is the largest group of from any independent school in the area receiving these honors. Saint James Seniors Daniel Kim, Gyuna Kim, Connor Taylor, and Ian Tsekouras were all recognized for their outstanding performance on the PSAT and are now working on the requirements to be named National Merit Finalists in February. Additionally, Saint James Seniors Joseph Gary, Jason Grate, Sarah Claire Loeb, and Henry Olree were named National Merit Commended Students for their exceptional performance on the PSAT. Commended Students are named each year on the basis of a nationally applied Selection Index score. The Commended Students are often candidates for special scholarships sponsored by corporations and businesses through the National Merit Program. Together, these exceptional eight students from Saint James School represent the complete education offered at Saint James. They have excelled in their advanced academic courses, taken elective classes that prepare them for a variety of majors in college, participated in the fine and performing arts and in athletics, and many of them have taken leadership roles in various school organizations. This well-rounded education from Saint James School has proven time and again to be the foundation graduates need to be successful in college and beyond. “It is so special to watch our students receive national recognition for their accomplishments,” said Dr. Larry McLemore, Saint James Head of School. “We work with our students from the day they arrive at Saint James to prepare them for what lies ahead. Since the founding of our school, it has been our mission to identify and develop the unique talents and gifts each child possesses—and to give each student the tools to be successful, confident, and empathetic adults. These eight seniors are exemplars for our Saint James family and for our community; they embody all that Saint James offers. I am thrilled for each of these students and I congratulate them and their families on such an extraordinary honor.” In addition to earning the high honor of National Merit Semifinalist and Commended Student recognition, these eight Saint James Students are also Advanced Placement (AP) Scholars. They are among the 20 Saint James School students who were named AP Scholars by the College Board fall 2016. Caption: Saint James Seniors Connor Taylor, Joseph Gary, Henry Olree, Ian Tsekouras, Jason Grate, Daniel Kim, Gyuna Kim, and Sarah Claire Loeb are the largest group of independent school students to receive National Merit Semifinalist and Commended Student recognition for 2017.
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
34
www.montgomeryparents.com
d
ool.
nd
o 16.
om
35
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
We have had a fantastic start to our second semester! What better way to start than with good news? The academic accolades keep coming for the 2017 Prattville High School seniors! They had 24 seniors score 30 or higher on the ACT. These students were recognized during January and February board meetings. Congratulations to the following students: Daniel Burnham, Lauren Chambliss, Christian Chapman, Wesley Donhauser, Hannah Edwards, Grace Glidden, Allison Hall, Benjamin Hendricks, Brooklyn Hollon, Kathryn Holtzscher, David Hyde, Molly Kopf, Connor Lantz, Isobel Moreland,
Caitlyn Morris, Eunjee Oh, Deland Saville, Chase Seibert, Todd Sheridan, Jr., Keitt Trammell, Laura Vickery, Bailey Vinson, Madeline Ward, and Aaron Wetmore! With the start of the second semester, we begin to plan for another fantastic school year. The 2017-2018 school calendar committee is working hard to create a calendar for the upcoming school year. I would like to thank the following members of our calendar committee: Tisha Scott-Addison from the Central Office, Kassi Argo from Prattville Elementary, Board Member Eleanor Ballow, Kelly Bibb (a parent representative), Tori Browning (a parent representative), Doug Hallford from Prattville Intermediate, LaShonda Houser from Prattville Junior High, Eddie Johnson from Second Chance, Brittany Little from Prattville Primary, LeeAnne Lovelady from Marbury High, Atoyia Mason from the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, Stephen Matthews from Marbury Middle, Dashiell
Miller from Prattville Kindergarten, Neal Murphree from Prattville High, Jennifer Reid from Billingsley, Susan Russell from the Technology Center, Jessica Shavers from Pine Level Elementary, Brooke Stinson from Daniel Pratt Elementary, Alesia Waugh from the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, and Marylynn Williams from Autaugaville. The committee will have a calendar prepared for board approval on February 9th. I take great pleasure in sharing the accomplishments that our schools, staff members, and students receive with the citizens of Autauga County. With so much news to share, take a moment to like “Autauga County Schools” on Facebook! Next month my letter will focus on our Transportation Department. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.
S
Ev Sa Sc cra ava to con sta crit tain
P
E Ho
m Pr A
giv ci ex
Ca ily
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
36
www.montgomeryparents.com
Autauga County Schools
Autauga County Tech Center Awards Microsoft Office Specialist Word Certifications
l
m
s s
e ff
o
on
ga
-
rch or,
om
PPS Student Builds STEM Minecraft Village
Evan Burke, a second-grade student in Saundra Russell’s class at Prattville Primary School, constructed a STEM Christmas Minecraft Village. Burke planned, designed, used available resources and brainstormed ways to improve the project if he duplicated the construction, which is a second-grade science standard. STEM projects engage students in critical thinking and content knowledge to attain deeper understanding of the standards.
PJHS Staff Keeps Positive
Education is tough! However, the smiling face of a student makes it worthwhile. Prattville Junior High Assistant Principal Martin Jackson gives a tour to a special young lady who exemplifies Cat spirit.
Autauga County Technology Center has awarded 54 Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Word certifications, an industry-recognized, standards-based credential for validating Microsoft Office skills. Two students made a perfect score. “As we reach this milestone of certifying 54 students this semester, we have seen the immediate benefits of implementing the Microsoft IT Academy program and helping our students earn the Microsoft Office Specialist certification,” said Cindy Epperson, interim principal of Autauga County Technology Center. “We look forward to helping even more students earn this valuable industry credential.” ACTC began offering the MOS certification in the 2012 school year to students in the Business Technology Essentials courses, through their partnership with Certiport, a Pearson VUE business. As a participant in the MOS pilot program, ACTC was one of the first schools in the state to offer this opportunity for students and is the only program in Autauga County. “As more students realize the value of certification, this program will continue to grow and Autauga County students will become the technological leaders in the local workforce,” said Brock Dunn, interim principal of Prattville High School. Microsoft Office Specialist Certification not only enhances academic performance but also provides students with a substantial advantage in their higher learning and workforce pursuits. Students who earn their Microsoft Office Specialist certification will be qualified to meet greater challenges, possessing the knowledge and ability to be more productive and share information in a compelling, intuitive manner. “Students will begin working on certification in Excel in January,” said Mrs. Goldman, IT Academy instructor. “The students are excited and looking forward to earning their next credential.” Students in the ACTC IT Academy classes will have the opportunity to earn a third credential in PowerPoint this spring.
Santa Visits PJHS
PPS Student Serves As Principal Helper
Under the direction of Prattville Junior High School’s 8th grade Assistant Principal Tony Camara, Santa visited Cat Country right before Christmas. He was checking off his nice and naughty list, so PJHS was excited that all of its Cats were on the nice list! Thanks to Officer Skip Tallmage for his partnership and support of Autauga County Schools.
Cadence Forrester, a second-grader in Emily Mills’s class at Prattville Primary, earned 50 points on her Accelerated Reader tests and won the opportunity to serve as the principal helper for the morning. 37
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Autauga County Schools
Prattville Primary Sends Cards Overseas Students from Prattville Primary School enjoyed making cards for Veterans’ Day and sending them to active duty servicemen stationed overseas. Two PPS teachers’ family members, Ms. Branning’s brotherin-law’s unit and Mrs. Hodge’s son, were the recipients of the students’ beautiful cards. Shown are students from Shae Slay’s classroom.
Prattville Junior High Band Performs Christmas Concerts
The 8th grade band at Prattville Junior High School performed several Christmas concerts for Daniel Pratt Elementary and Prattville Intermediate. It was an incredible way to get everyone in the holiday spirit with a great time of sing-a-longs and excellent classical Christmas music. Thanks to Band Directors Kenneth Hall and Ashley Williams for their hard work and dedication to PJHS and to encouraging the arts and to promoting music.
Autauga County Tech Center Receives Donation to Auto Program
Autauga County Technology Center received a $2,500 donation from MODEL A for the automotive program. Gordon Allen, director of the automotive program at ACTC, was presented with the check. Each year the Model A Club makes a donation to the Center that aids with the purchase of tools and supports events that the students attend. Allen discussed the use of funds donated by the club to assist with the needs of students pursuing automotive training at the Technology Center and thanked the club for its continued support.
PCA Completes Student Center, Secondary Building Expansion
Prattville Christian Academy students officially moved into the school’s new student center and secondary building addition as second semester classes began following the holiday break. The multi-room expansion provides additional classroom space as well as the following areas: state-of-the-art science labs, large multipurpose room which houses PCA’s Tanglewood Coffee House, dedicated Bible department, and expanded activity space. “The new addition is a great blessing made possible by many donors who support our mission of preparing Christian leaders for life,” said PCA President Ron Mitchell. “It provides much-needed space for our student body which we anticipate to be more than 700 students next year. PCA’s growth is a testament to the God-honoring work that goes on each day.” The highlight for guests at the ribbon cutting ceremony was the opportunity to sample PCA’s new Tanglewood Coffee House specialties. “I see so much potential in PCA students and what can be done through them if we can get them to really be involved in our community now,” said Mary Greer, Tanglewood owner and educated counselor. “My desire is to help whomever walks through these doors to know their purpose and receive the resources that they need to reach them.” Shown, PCA students and board members cut the ribbon to officially open the school’s new student center and secondary building addition.
Pine Level Elementary Learns Code
Gifted students at Pine Level Elementary School participated in the Hour of Code as an introduction to computer science during the week of December 5-9. As a part of the recognition of January as Gifted Education Month (GEM), students invited parents and guests to learn code during the week of January 9-13. The students were privileged to have Senator Clyde Chambliss participate and learn more about coding at the school. He was taught by fifth-graders using both “plugged” and “unplugged” activities. The students used perseverance, problem solving, and computational thinking as well as their knowledge of computer science. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
38
www.montgomeryparents.com
Un fro an in t
as
l ds nd
n
s.
s.
Prattville High Speech & Debate Competes at Alabama
The Prattville High School Speech and Debate team competed January 13-14 at the University of Alabama Hall of Fame Tournament in Tuscaloosa. One of twenty-two schools from across the Southeast, the Prattville team won the third-place overall debate sweepstakes and the third-place individual events sweepstakes, making Prattville the highest-ranking team in the state of Alabama in tournament standings. The finalists from the tournament were Nick Albright, sixth place After Dinner Speaking; Hannah Cooper, Varsity Lincoln Douglas finals; Hannah Edwards, second place Poetry Interpretation, fourth place Programmed Oral Interpretation and fifth place Duo Interpretation; Gentry Slay, Impromptu Speaking Champion, Informational Speaking Champion, second place After Dinner Speaking and fifth place Extemporaneous Speaking; and Lucy Sonsalla, After Dinner Speaking Champion. Slay was also named the top individual events student of the tournament. Additionally, seniors Edwards and Slay were offered two of only six available full tuition scholarships to be members of the University of Alabama’s elite speech team, the Alabama Forensic Council.
Prattville Primary Teachers Receive Bright Ideas Grants Prattville Primary School second-grade teachers Kayla Dake and Kristie Glidden each received a Bright Ideas Grant from Central Alabama Electric Cooperative. Both grants will be used to implement innovative ideas in their classrooms. From left are Kayla Dake, Kristie Glidden and CAEC President/ CEO Tom Stackhouse. Thank you to our teachers for finding the outside resources and to community partners for investing in our future.
as e
g
ty
.� to
om
39
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
My first month as superintendent has been an exciting one filled with campus visits, meetings with school and district leaders, and exploring ways to increase effectiveness and efficiency across the district. Students are my first priority, and all of the goals in my one hundred day plan are student centered, always taking into account their physical and mental needs in any decision that is made. Generating additional funds would make it possible for us to consider more options to better serve our students, and some promising changes are planned in our Finance Department. We are already in the planning stages for some changes that will result in cost savings as well as increased cash flow for the district. First, we will begin moving toward a paperless payroll system with all employees utilizing direct deposit and, in the future
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
giving employees online access to make changes to their payroll forms (deductions, account information, etc.). Training and resources will be provided to assist employees with the set-up process to ensure a smooth transition. We will also implement a purchasing/credit card process to streamline the current paperwork aspect of purchases. This procedure is being used by other school systems around the state and is generating thousands of dollars in rebates to their general funds at no cost to the systems. Finally, we are investigating the feasibility of leasing school buses in order increase the number of buses in our fleet that are eligible for State Department of Education fleet renewal funding (for buses less than 10 years old). Our state fleet renewal funding level currently provides funds sufficient to purchase nine new buses each year. The leasing option would add approximately 30 to 40 new buses to our fleet at the same cost as purchasing nine new buses. More of our students could be transported in newer buses and our maintenance costs would decrease significantly. I appreciate the efforts of our
40
Chief School Financial Officer Jason Mann for his initiative in seeking out ways that we as a district can generate additional funds that can be used to better serve our students. Spring is right around the corner and it is hard to believe we will soon begin planning for the 2017-2018 school year. My priorities as an administrator have and will continue to be students first and foremost, academics, and finally, extracurricular activities. Planning and decisions for the upcoming year will be made in keeping with these priorities to ensure that our students receive the best education possible and are prepared for college or the workforce after graduation. Exciting days are ahead in Elmore County and I am thankful to be a part of a school system that is constantly striving to be the best it can be! Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He completed his undergraduate degree in English and History Education at The University of Alabama, his Master’s degree in English at Troy University and his Administrative Certification at AUM. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High School, Wetumpka High School and most recently, Prattville High School. He and his wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons: Forrest, Ethan, Jacob, and a daughter, Laura Grace.
www.montgomeryparents.com
for s t
y
vie ve red on.
e
ma,
as ka e or-
om
41
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Th for Th
Elmore County Schools
Eclectic Elementary’s December Students of the Month
Kindergarten: Brantley Prater, Renyn Watkins, Baleigh Ames, Adalyn Mayfield, Kasen Taylor and Kaycee Lou Jackson; 1st Grade: Tyler Hart, Jackson McDade, Jamarcus Pritchett, Tripp Edwards, Joseph Knight and Kimber Thornton; 2nd Grade: Eden Carpenter, Keegan Lett, Riley Peffer, Micah Parker and Parker Luster; 3rd Grade: Keri Oswalt, Hayden Griffith, Kelsey Anthony, Anderson Sharpe, Anna Spivey and Natalie Moore; 4th Grade: Trinnen Coston, Madison Jolly, Samuel Myers, Parker Faulk and Emmah Clement.
ARIS Enjoys Decade Days
M
“Decade Days” at Airport Road Intermediate School were a hit for Bullying Awareness week. Many students dressed up in ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s attire. The event was an instant reminder that bullying is “old news” and we need to find new ways to be accepting, kind and appreciative of all mankind.
de tha
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
Elmore County Awards Teachers of the Year
At its first meeting of the new year, Elmore County Board of Education recognized faculty who were named Teachers of the Year at their individual schools. Of those, one elementary and one secondary Teacher of the Year were named for the county. Airport Road Intermediate School media specialist Debbie Jones, above center, was named Emore County Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Wetumpka High School science instructor Phalanda Johnson, shown at right with WHS Principal Robbie Slater, was named Elmore County Secondary Teacher of the Year. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Holtville Drama Club Performs Christmas Play
The Holtville Elementary School Drama Club performed the production Alice in Christmas Land for fellow students and family. The students practiced on Thursday afternoons for three months to prepare for the play. Their hard work and dedication was displayed for all to see! This production was a fun-filled way to celebrate Christmas and highlight the talent in our school.
42
www.montgomeryparents.com
Holtville Classes Perform Christmas Carols
The Holtville Elementary School kindergarten and first-grade choir performed Christmas carols for all to hear. The students practiced two months, one afternoon a week, for their performance. They showcased their talents by singing and utilizing ribbons as part of their production.
h
m-
Middle School Students Excited About New Technology
Elmore County’s seventh-grade teachers delivered Google Chromebooks to excited students in January. Teachers have been working extremely hard and have participated in more than 50 hours of face-to-face training since August, preparing for this event. The Chromebooks are part of an i3 federal grant through eMINTS, which provide technology for all Elmore County seventh-graders to use during the school day. At Eclectic Middle School, teachers, administrators and students had a great time building zip lines. Students related the task of building a zip line and taking care of their “ping pong pal” to how they need to be responsible and take care of their Chromebooks!
RES Student Cast In ASF Production Lillie Prestridge, a student in Misty Trussell’s third-grade class at Redland Elementary, has been cast as Sweetie Pie Thomas in the Alabama Shakespeare Festival production of Because of Winn-Dixie. She has been to New York City to prepare for this play, and now the cast will present it to the public through February 12.
nd hs
om
43
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Elmore County Schools
Holtville Student Council Organizes Canned Food Drive The Holtville Elementary School Student Council was hard at work during the month of December. The students organized a canned food drive for the school, totaling 1,713 nonperishable food items. As the caption on the wall displays “Great Kids Doing Great Things at a Great School.”
Air ne an for
Millbrook Holds Anti-Bullying Rally
Millbrook schools held a community-wide anti-bullying rally to culminate a week dedicated to bullying awareness. Groups from each school (Coosada Elementary, Airport Road Intermediate, Millbrook Middle and Stanhope Elmore High) presented acts to support a “bully-free” environment in our schools. Speakers from Auburn University, Linda Dean and Dr. Lynne Patrick, presented attendees with vital information concerning bullying in schools today.
Coosada Elementary ‘Socks It’ to Bullying
Students at Coosada Elementary enjoyed a week of bullying awareness with activities and special lessons. Students were encouraged to dress up each day, and teachers discussed a daily topic related to bullying. Teachers addressed physical bullying, verbal bullying, social alienation, intimidation and cyber bullying. CES celebrated no more bullying on Friday by wearing crazy socks and enjoying a fun-filled Sock Hop. It was a great success!
H
Be Ap Bu tio
ARIS Celebrates Honor Roll Students
On January 11, Airport Road Intermediate School was excited to celebrate the students who made Honor Roll for the 2nd nine weeks. Students were surprised with breakfast biscuits and ribbons.
RES Announces Geography Bee Winners
Ten students representing their homeroom classes recently participated in the fifth annual National Geographic Bee held at Redland Elementary. Winners from left were: 3rd place Katherine Wright, fifth grade; 1st place Henry Skala, fifth grade; and 2nd place Tate Padouk, sixth grade. Fifth-grade teacher Becca Bowers is the coordinator. Skala will take an online test and the top 100 scorers in the state will continue in the state bee at Samford University. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
44
www.montgomeryparents.com
win tio pu nit
Bu
1,8 stu do we kid mo yo so yo
co Co Le ap
ve
od
ol
-
e
s
om
ARIS Awards Spelling Bee Winners
Airport Road Intermediate School presents its 2017 Spelling Bee winners and runners-up. In 3rd grade, Kamani Howard took first place and Kush Kapadia was the runner-up. In 4th grade, Maleah Beaufort was the winner and Anna Adams was runner-up.
Help Holtville Middle Win App Challenge
A team of students from Holtville Middle School has been named Best in State winners in the fifth annual Verizon Innovative Learning App Challenge for its mobile app concept called “Where’s My School Bus?” The team will receive a $5,000 award from the Verizon Foundation for its school and tablets for each student team member. As one of two winners from Alabama, the team is now eligible to win one of eight Best In Nation awards, selected by a panel of education and industry experts, and the Fan Favorite Award, determined by public voting, to earn an additional $15,000 for HMS and the opportunity to work with MIT Media Lab experts to bring its app idea to life. Until February 14, anyone can vote to help “Where’s My School Bus?” win the Fan Favorite award by texting BUSTRACK to 22333. The students’ winning app idea was selected from more than 1,800 submissions nationwide. “Where’s My School Bus?” helps students figure out what is going to happen to them if their bus breaks down, if it is late or early, or what will happen if there is unexpected weather. From their essay describing the app: “Our app will help every kid that rides the bus that needs help solving these problems and more. If the bus is running late, the app will send you a message. If you have a question and you do not see a feature that would help you solve it, then you can simply click on the magnifying glass. Type in your question and it will give you an answer.” The Fan Favorite and Best in Nation teams will present their completed apps at the annual Technology Student Association (TSA) Conference in Orlando, Fla., in June, courtesy of Verizon Innovative Learning, the education initiative of the Verizon Foundation. Their apps will be downloadable from the Google Play store.
45
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
PARENT
ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston
When Your Teen is in the Wrong Crowd If you swim with the sharks, you’re bound to get bit. One bad apple spoils the whole bushel. Bad company corrupts good character. Many parents have added these phrases to their lexicon, because they illustrate the dangers of running with the “wrong crowd”. As moms and dads, we know how susceptible kids are to peer influence. You’ve likely spent many sleepless nights worrying about the people your child is hanging around. What are they teaching my son? What are they pressuring my daughter to do? Are these friends that will give needed support and encouragement to my teen, or are they the type of people who will bring my child down? These are valid concerns if you suspect your child is hanging out with the wrong crowd. But let’s pause for a moment and ask just who is the “wrong crowd?” Here’s a simple definition we can use: The “wrong crowd” includes anyone who influences your child in ways that are contradictory to your values, systems, and beliefs as parents. When parents observe changes in their teen and note the actions and attitudes of their friends, they may arrive at the conclusion, “my teen is in league with some bad seeds.” When this happens, how do we gently guide our teens away from negative influences? My advice may not be what you might expect.
mature enough to make wise decisions on their own. It would be foolish to let young children spend time with people who have serious hang-ups. But at some point, we must stop protecting our kids and start preparing them to make wise choices when choosing friends. If all we are doing is holding our kids back from this or that person, we are not equipping them to make smart decisions once they are free of our control. While every child is different, here is a basic guideline for starting that relational training: 0–13 years old: Get to know and closely monitor your child’s friends. If your son or daughter is running with the wrong crowd this early, change schools, move houses, or pull your child from certain activities. At this age, they still need to have their innocence protected.
good idea? Do you?” Or you can ask, “Has anyone offered you drugs? What crossed your mind in that moment?” These types of questions are effective because they help your child articulate their values, beliefs, and convictions. And if they ever get into a situation similar to the one you have discussed, chances are they will remember, “Hey, I remember telling my mom (or dad) that I don’t believe in drinking and driving. I’m going to pass.” By asking good questions, you are helping your child build up those decisionmaking muscles that will serve them well, whether they have good friends or not.
Embrace the “Bad” Kids
Teach Your Kids
18+ years old: At this age, young people must be responsible for their own choices, including their choices in friends. If they are living with you, they must follow the rules of the house. But if they are on their own, all you can do is let them know you are available to talk and give advice if they ever feel they need it.
Instead of running from the wrong crowd, let’s run towards them! Turn your home into a safe, loving, and fun place where teens can hang out and interact. Provide alternatives for your kids and their friends. Invite them to watch a ball game. Pack up enough supplies, and take a group fishing. Let them set up their band in your garage. Set aside a weekend, and go camping with your kids and their friends. In this way, not only will you be providing a healthy outlet for teens to have fun, but they will be under your watch and protection. Rather than cautioning your teen to side step the problem kids, take initiative and be the mentor, leader, or life coach they need. Maybe your son or daughter has some friends with emotional, physical, or spiritual issues. Are there hurting and needy kids in your teen’s circle of friends? Open up your arms, and embrace that “wrong crowd.” Start influencing the “bad kids” yourself. And teach your teen to do the same. In that way, you won’t avoid the wrong crowd, you will change them!
As parents, part of our job is to protect our kids. We try to shield them from negative influences as much as possible. We’re not going to let our 12-year-old daughter hang around 18-year-old girls who smoke pot and sleep with their boyfriends. We have to shield our child’s innocence until they are
As you train your teen to use discernment when choosing friends, you can help them along by asking good questions. For instance, you can ask, “I’m curious; would you ever drink and drive? Do you know someone who has? Did they think it was a
Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
14–17 years old: Continue to monitor your child’s friends, but begin to slowly back off from controlling their relationships. If you have concerns about the people they are spending time with, talk with your kids about the problems you see. Also, set personal and family boundaries regarding the kind of behavior that is acceptable among friends and the kind that is not.
46
www.montgomeryparents.com
s
f
nd d, n’t o
PARENTS_Yep.qxp_Layout 1 12/14/16 11:23 AM Page 1
Yep. Life is good here. OUR HOME IS ACTIVE, OFTEN NOISY BUT ALWAYS SPECIAL. WE WOULDN’T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY – OR LIVE ANYWHERE ELSE. WE BUILT A BEAUTIFUL HOUSE OUT HERE, AND NOW WE'RE FILLING IT WITH MEMORIES. GOOD MEMORIES FROM A GOOD LIFE.
-
up
NEW PARK IS A MASTER-PLANNED FAMILY COMMUNITY IN EAST MONTGOMERY • ADJACENT TO THE NEWEST ELEMENTARY, MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS • HOME TO THE CITY’S NEWEST YMCA • NEIGHBORHOOD SWIMMING POOL • DOZENS OF FLOOR PLANS TO CHOOSE FROM • YOUR CHOICE OF THE RIVER REGION’S BEST HOME BUILDERS 334.215.9215 | newparkliving.com | 9430 Park Crossing Between Ray Thorington Road and Taylor Road
a ey
e . e al n
nd y,
ens ens s
nd
-
om
47
Now Taking Reservations
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
G
“They must still be dating,” my friend whispers to me. As we stand shivering at my son’s soccer game, my brother-in-law and his fiancee cuddle together sharing a warm blanket and a chair. “No married couple would be that affectionate toward each other,” she says. Her assessment seems a bit pessimistic to this romantic. Must the spontaneity and sweetness of courtship die as we move out of the “shout from the roof-tops” kind of young love into the demands of young parenthood?
ing pe an ex an tan an
do pre Am fam am the wh dru
Af
Ma oth Montgomery Parents I February 2017
48
www.montgomeryparents.com
e.
om
17 Simple Ways to Rekindle That Lovin’ Feelin’ Hold hands. Hug and kiss. Look each other in the eyes. Get involved in a hobby together. Listen when your spouse talks about his or her interests. Flirt with each other. Laugh together. Pen a love note and leave it on your spouse’s pillow. Send a flirty text message. Email a link to a sweet love song to your mate. Give your spouse a back rub. Offer a sincere compliment. Help each other around the house and with the kids. Call each other during the day just to check in. Court each other. Tell your kids what you love about your spouse. Say “I love you”.
Growing complacent about displaying affection isn’t unusual as a marriage is peppered with children, crises, celebrations and day-to-day routine. Nonetheless, simple expressions of love like hand-holding, hugs and kisses, and compliments are an important component to the health of a marriage and the family unit. “Without intimacy, people can and often do begin to feel isolated, alone, bitter, depressed, used and simply uncared for,” says Amanda Deverich, a licensed marriage and family therapist. “All the happiness that was amplified by the physicality in the early part of the marriage is no longer there to grease the wheels of family life. What remains is grinding drudgery, financial stress and short tempers.”
Affection in the midst parenthood. Many parents find that affection for each other can get lost in the mind-numbing whirl49
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
wind of sleepless nights and the general challenges of new parenthood. “This is a natural phenomenon in the family life cycle as parents devote their energies to the newborn,” Deverich says. After the initial adjustment period, nurture your relationship to avoid resentment and a sense of neglect. Such feelings can quietly chip away at the positive family dynamic that your kids rely on to feel safe and secure.
Why affection is healthy. “Couples believe affection is simply an inspired byproduct of a feeling,” Deverich says. “However, it can be the other way around. Love, connectedness, and caring can be sparked by physical touch.” While excessive public displays of intimacy can cause discomfort for those around you--including your kids--showing warmth toward one another gives children a sense of well-being, that all is well in their family unit. “When children see this model behavior where affection is easily expressed, that is a skill set that can translate into other arenas of their life,” says psychiatrist Dr. Bela Sood. “They learn how to be kind, gentle, as well as, be happy with other people as they watch their own parents.”
When affection doesn’t come naturally. Not everyone was raised in af-
F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n .
fectionate homes and others simply aren’t wired to display warmth toward others, including the ones they love the most. “Understand the uniqueness and differences in the other person without being judgmental about that,” Sood says. But that doesn’t mean you can’t work on meeting your spouse’s needs for affection. Recall what attracted the two of you in the first place. Physical touch and tenderness toward each other can reaffirm your love and create instant connectedness. “We forget that we have control over many things that go on in our lives if we are willing to make that sacrifice,” Sood says. “And why are we willing to make that sacrifice? Because we love that person.” mp
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 February 2017
50
Freelance writer, Christa Melnyk Hines, and her husband of 18 years are the parents of two boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. Visit her at www.christamelnykhines.com.
www.montgomeryparents.com
Riv me Kin ou no Ga its fro lan an
ma bu she Hig pa res
tici tion Cre Ch rig ord rem Civ
tha cha Joh
er-
s y
w, ed
g n eir
ior a s d.
Hundreds Celebrate MLK Day with Neighborhood Restoration Project Nearly 300 people joined HandsOn River Region in a morning of service to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Participants engaged in a number of outreach efforts and projects to revitalize the north Montgomery neighborhood of Highland Gardens and build a better quality of life for its residents. Volunteers spent their day off from work to make improvements to the Highland Gardens Community Center, City Park and Elementary School. The day’s activities included: grounds maintenance and improvements to the park, building hygiene kits for the homeless and shelter residents, painting the exterior of Highland Gardens Elementary School and packing disaster preparedness kits for area residents. In appreciation for their hard work, participants were treated to a wrap-up celebration with lunch generously provided by Wind Creek Hospitality. Special guest Lily Baptist Church Pastor Thomas Jordan, shown at right, who was mentored, baptized and ordained by Dr. King, opened the day with remarks reflecting on his relationship with the Civil Rights Pioneer. “Dr. King’s life is a shining example that one person can make a difference and change the course of history,” said Jo Ann Johnson, HandsOn executive director. “We’re
delighted that so many chose to honor King’s legacy through the spirit of service and are hopeful that the day will inspire many to make volunteering part of their lives all year long.” HandsOn would like to thank the following event sponsors for their generous support and participation: City of Montgomery, Montgomery Clean City Commission, Montgomery Public Schools, North Precinct Service Providers Alliance, Jack Ingram Motors, Sherwin Williams and Wind Creek Hospitality.
For more than 40 years, HandsOn River Region has served to build a strong, caring community by mobilizing volunteers and connecting people with needed services. In addition to large-scale national days of service, HandsOn mobilizes 10,000 volunteers annually through coordinated projects and events year round that address the needs of the community. To find out how you can serve and help build the “beloved community” that Dr. King spoke of, visit http://volunteer.handsonriverregion.org where there are currently more than 70 opportunities available.
n’t
s.
or
n-
er
and st
at
om
51
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
New Guidelines for Tots and Tech For many years, the American Academy of Pediatrics had strict rules about screentime—no exposure for kids under 2 and no more than two hours a day for preschoolers. Last December, the Academy abandoned those guidelines, acknowledging what parents already knew: Screens are everywhere. One recent study, published in the Academy’s journal Pediatrics found “nearly universal exposure” for children under two. Even under age one, half of all babies interacted with a mobile device every single day, playing simple games, watching videos and fooling with apps. Academy policy makers concluded, “In a world in which ‘screen time’ is becoming simply ‘time’ our policies must evolve or become obsolete.” The revised guidelines from the Academy don’t offer specific rules, perhaps because there isn’t clearcut research showing that certain uses of mobile devices help or harm very young children. Instead, they provide general advice, intended to guide parents as they make decisions about when to hand over a tablet or a cellphone to a baby or a toddler. Here are their guidelines: Media is just another environment. Child development hasn’t changed. The Academy points out that kids do what they have always done but now they do much of it virtually. The most rapid period of brain development takes place before age three so infants and toddlers need a wide range of experiences, with and without technology, under the supervision of loving adults. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Parenting has not changed. Parents still have to make decisions about what’s good for a particular child in a particular situation. The video that makes one child giggle may be overstimulating to another child or the same child at a different time of day. Good parents respond flexibly to new situations and, most importantly, to each child. Role-modeling is critical. Little kids imitate adults. Parents who want kids to have healthy relationship with screens will have to model self-control by setting limits for themselves. We learn from each other. Young children learn most easily when they are interacting with people. Language, in particular, develops most readily during natural back-and-forth exchanges between babies and adults. According to some studies, lengthy passive exposure to media such as videos may actually inhibit language acquisition. On the other hand, technology that promotes interaction—video chatting with a family member, for example—may stimulate language and other kinds of learning. Content matters. Rather than setting arbitrary limits on time spent with screens, the Academy recommends that parents think about everything a child does during the day. Is there plenty of time for being outdoors, moving around, reading books, singing songs, snuggling, being silly? Time with technology becomes a problem when it edges out other activities. Curation helps. Any app can claim that it’s educational. Very few have research to back up that claim. Little children, in particular, deserve the highest quality products parents can find. Before 52
downloading an app or firing up a video, check reviews from organizations like Parents’ Choice (parents-choice.org), Children’s Technology Review (childrenstech. com/) or Common Sense Media (commonsensemedia.org/). Playtime is important. Unstructured playtime stimulates creativity and independence. Unplugged play is especially important for very young children because they learn from touching and manipulating objects in the three dimensional world. Set limits. As many adults know, technology can have a mesmerizing effect. Games, in particular, are often designed to encourage mindless swiping, and little kids—like everyone else-may find it difficult to disengage. Setting limits requires the same gentle but firm techniques parents use in other settings. When children want cookies for lunch—or unlimited time on the I-pad—it’s up to parents to steer them in a different direction. Create tech-free zones. In particular, the Academy recommends that parents teach kids to power down during meals and at bedtime. Little children are more likely to adopt healthy eating habits if meals are a happy, social time with lots of playful interaction. At bedtime, research shows that light from screens can interfere with sleep cycles, so the Academy recommends devices be kept out of bedrooms. Kids will be kids. Very little children are likely to be hard on devices because they don’t know any better. They may put them in their mouths, bang with them or toss them in the toilet. The Academy points out that “these can be teachable moments if handled with empathy.” The world may be filled with screens, but this advice from AAP rings true: “Keep face-to-face up front and don’t let it get lost behind a stream of media and tech.” Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.
www.montgomeryparents.com
,
hilh.
d
se ng
of
re m.
nts s
, p st
e
ma-
om
C
Experience the inspiring story of
H
Katherine & Jay Wolf
ON
E
NECTIN
AR
G
7
or r. ar,
TS 20
1
of Hope Heals Ministry AGAPE of Central Alabama’s 3rd Annual Connecting Hearts Fundraiser to Help Children Katherine, a survivor of a near-fatal
28 FEB 2017
6:00-6:30 pm VIP Meet and Greet
Alley Station Warehouse, downtown Montgomery
6:30-7:00 pm Book Signing 7:00-8:00 pm Featured Event
brain stem stroke, and husband Jay have overcome major trials with God’s grace. Come hear their story of triumph while
For tickets or sponsorship opportunities, visit connectinghearts.org 53
helping AGAPE bring hope to families. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Th
the on oth he ea en C. psy jus hu
Fo
“se op cup talk ers bo blin tha Ste you rea to rep tha
me Me the An
You’re strolling with your baby regularly and deskinning your chicken--but you’ve still got leftover pregnancy pounds that just won’t budge. What’s going on? One possibility is that you’re expecting too much too soon. “To get back to your old weight, give yourself a year,” says Fran Grossman, a registered dietitian at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. It can take that long, especially if you’re not nursing and you gained more than the recommended 25 to 35 pounds. Still, if pregnancy weight lingers past your baby’s first birthday, it’s time to look at your lifestyle habits, says Grossman. For new mom Ilise Kesslin, her nemesis was deprivation dieting. “I realized that when I restricted the food I could eat, I binged later in the day on snacks,” says Kesslin, who now eats whatever she wants, just in smaller portions. As a result, she says, “I’m skinnier than I was before my pregnancy.” What’s preventing you from dropping the extra weight? Here, we reveal ten common mommy diet traps. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
54
www.montgomeryparents.com
The Trap: Having some just because it’s there. Your mother-in-law always shows up on your doorstep with one of her pies. The other mommies bring treats to playgroup. You help yourself to bites from your child’s lunch or eat leftovers so they don’t go to waste. “This is environmentally-induced eating,” says Daniel C. Stettner, PhD, a weight management psychologist in Troy, Michigan. You eat food just because it’s there--not because you’re hungry--and those calories add up fast.
Food Fix: To guard yourself against a
“see-food” diet, don’t keep edibles out in the open. If you find yourself foraging in your cupboards when youre chatting on the phone, talk in another room. When youre out at mothers’ groups and birthday parties, carry a water bottle so you can take a swig instead of nibbling on something. “It serves as a reminder that you’re doing something healthy,” says Stettner. If someone gets pushy about asking you to sample her food, avoid saying, “Well, I really shouldn’t,” which implies that you want to be convinced. Instead, suggests Stettner, repeat this concise yet convincing phrase: “No thank you. I’m not hungry right now.” As for finishing up leftovers, make a mental note to prepare less food next time. Meanwhile wrap the extras and put them in the refrigerator immediately--or toss them. And rather than mindlessly munching from a
box of animal crackers at snack time, have something that’s calorie-contained by design, like a piece of fruit or yogurt.
The Trap: Eating when you’re tired.
Fatigue-induced eating is diet pitfall for all women, and particularly for new moms. According to a National Sleep Foundation poll, women reported eating more than usual on days when they didn’t get enough sleep. “In that compromised state, we often reach for food, especially sweets, because we’re looking for a quick energy boost,” says Joy Bauer, RD, author of The 90/10 Weight Loss Plan.
Food Fix: If you can’t take a catnap,
activate your day: pace when you talk on the phone, deliver a memo in person instead of sending an e-mail, or go for a stroll with your baby. “Exercise pulls glycogen--the stored form of carbohydrate in the liver and muscles-into your bloodstream, which can ultimately make you feel more energized as your blood glucose level rises,” explains Neva Cochran, RD, a nutrition consultant in Dallas, Texas. Also, use this snacking system, which acts as a kind of nibbling speed bump: “Designate three low-calorie foods you’ll eat before grabbing anything else,” advises Bauer, such as two handfuls of baby carrots, a nonfat yogurt and a 30-calorie fudge pop. “When you’re on
this system, you’ll probably realize you’re not hungry after all.”
The Trap: A kiddie food diet. If your family meals are dictated by kids’ preferences for high-fat, high-calorie, low-fiber foods, such as french fries, it’s a sure route to weight gain for both you and your children. “If they’re not good for you, these foods are probably not good for your kids,” says Cathy Nonas, RD, author of Outwit Your Weight.
Food Fix: Make healthier versions of kid classics. Prepare macaroni and cheese with skim milk and low-fat cheese, says Bauer. Serve baked-potato fries or mashed potatoes made with skim milk or even sweet potatoes-they’re loaded with disease-preventing betacarotene. Also, be vigilant about introducing healthy, grown-up entrees like skinless chicken breast, fish filets and lean beef or pork. Try to prepare two vegetables for dinner each night (such as salad and peas). “Studies show that women set the pace for healthy eating in the family,” says Nonas. “If Mom’s eating more vegetables, everyone in the family will, too.” The Trap: Multitasking meals: Whether
it’s in front of the TV or as you talk on the phone, munching while doing something else
cy
To
e
om
55
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
is an easy way to inhale calories mindlessly. Moreover, on-the-gocalories can be dissatisfying on an emotional level; you may not feel like you’ve eaten. Then, you’ll seek that fulfillment by eating more later, says Stettner.
B
R
Food Fix:
When you’re at home, schedule at least 20 minutes for eating, the time it takes for your brain to get the message from your stomach that you’re full--without the television on or a book in front of you. The one exception to this is breakfast. “Most people don’t overeat at that meal,” says Bauer. So go ahead and eat your oatmeal while watching your favorite morning news program. As for on-the-go meals, like that nutrition bar you scarfed down en route to the doctor’s office, acknowledge them. “Say to yourself, ‘This is half of lunch,’” Bauer says.
The Trap: Not eating all day because you’re too busy. But by dinner--look out! You’ll be eating everything in sight. “Not eating all day is one of the worst things you can do,” says Grossman. “To compensate for the lack of fuel coming in, your metabolism will slow down and you’ll burn fewer calories.” You’ll also feel cranky and lethargic. Grrr!
fu
Food Fix: Grossman recommends not skipping meals--no matter
on
what. In fact, she suggests stoking the fire by eating something every three hours. Of course, with kids, this can be a challenge. One way to manage the situation is to take advantage of naptime. “I have my biggest meal--lunch--when the kids are down,” says Ilise Kesslin. “It’s a calmer meal, and I truly enjoy it because I’m not rushed.”
The Trap: Cooking calories. You’re probably cooking more now
than ever. And that means taste testing. Beware: Generous bites of mashed potatoes with a wooden spoon can easily add up to onefourth cup, which translates into 50 unaccounted-for calories and 2 grams of fat. That’s just one example. And without realizing how much you’ve already eaten, you sit down to dinner and have what you consider to be a normal portion. Uh-oh.
th • • • • • •
Food Fix: To keep prep-time calories from adding up to mini-
meals, check seasoning with a teaspoon or just the tip of your finger. If you’re starving before dinner, have an appetizer, such as three carrot sticks and two crackers with hummus, so calories don’t get out of control. But, says Bauer, be sure to say to yourself, “This is an appetizer,” so the calories get logged into your mental tally. mp
Sandra Gordon is author of Consumer Reports Best Baby Products and a frequent contributor to many national magazines, including Ladies’ Home Journal, Prevention, Parents, American Baby, and Fitness.
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
56
www.montgomeryparents.com
• •
•1
l
Bradford Health Services ROAD MAP TO ADOLESCENT RECOVERY
n’t al o r’s
Addiction is not an easy road for adults and can be even more difficult for teenagers. Drug and alcohol dependency can take
ay nd
er ry
adolescents away from their families, friends, and a successful future. Bradford Health Services has guided young people and their families
their families identify, embrace, and maximize their strengths and skill sets.
’s
w of
f
so
al,
om
BRADFORD
on the road to recovery for more than 30 years. We help adolescents and
•
Inpatient Treatment, Intensive Outpatient Treatment & Continuing Care
•
Clinical services facilitated by licensed therapists
•
Medical services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
•
Psychological Evaluation
•
Education Program
•
Recreational Activities
•
Family Education Program
•
Adventure-Based Counseling
• 12-Step
HEALTH SERVICES
Call today for a free consultation 334-244- 0702 • 1- 800 - 333 -1865 www.bradfordhealth.com
Groups
There Is Hope Ahead. 57
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
St
po ca few cia alre thr pa an wo
He
or ca du a ti pre ba ho
Co
Fa or tim ch ba ties mo to e ch old ca
Pr
ca ho no an fre piz me ou co ma fav
Adjusting to having a new baby in the house can be difficult for the whole family. Sleepless nights and
Se
a change in routine can leave mom feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Offering support to a family with a new baby can help them adjust to their new normal. Often when you ask, mom isn’t able to think of the exact way she needs help.
set sig co ven sol me mig
Le
Here are some ideas: Montgomery Parents I February 2017
58
tim tim to h www.montgomeryparents.com
om
Stop by the store
Going to the store with newborn and possibly older children for the first time can be a daunting task. Offer to pick up a few things the family needs. This is especially easy if you will be out running errands already. Many grocery stores now offer drive through pick up. Have the family order and pay for groceries online, then pick them up and deliver them. Helping to put them away would be an extra bonus.
Help around the house
Sweep the floor, fold laundry, vacuum, or do dishes.. Even a little bit of tidying up can make a big difference. A clean house during a time of transition can bring order to a time that feels chaotic. However, mom may prefer to clean herself. Offer to care for the baby and other children while she works on a household project.
Come when others don’t
Not all new moms are “new moms”. Families that are adding their second, third, or fourth child need help just as much as first time moms, if not more. When there are older children there is no time for resting when the baby rests. Older children do not stop activities just because a new baby has arrived and mom and dad are tired. It can be very difficult to entertain a toddler while mom is nursing or changing diapers. Offer to take care of the older children or take care of baby so she can spend some time with her older children.
The Princess Stories & More
presented by Alabama Dance Theatre
Saturday, March 4 th at 2:30 p.m. (shortened children’s matinee of “The Princess Stories” only)
Saturday, March 4th at 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, March 5th at 2:30 p.m. Troy University’s Davis Theatre Tickets: alabamadancetheatre.com Information: 241.2800 SPONSORED SPONSORED BY BY
LOREE & OWEN ARONOV
The Daniel Foundation
This performance is made possible by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts.
Provide a meal
Friends and family often send versatile casseroles like lasagna after the new baby is home. Try thinking outside the 13x9 pan. Why not bring the family the fixings for breakfast and lunch rather than just dinner? Stock the freezer with easy, ready to make items like pizza, pasta dishes, soups and crock pot meals. Then the family can pull something out of the freezer when they are not up for cooking. Crunched for time or don’t feel like making an extra meal? Bring the family their favorite take out or send a gift card.
Set up a train
When one meal just doesn’t cover it, set up a meal train using websites like www. signupgenius.com or www.takethemameal. com. Discuss with the family the most convenient dates and times to deliver meals and solicit friends to fill all the open spots. Social media is a great place to recruit people you might not think to ask.
Let her shower
A new mom may feel she doesn’t have time for basic things like a shower, rest, or time to eat a meal. One of the simplest ways to help a new mom is to hold the baby and 59
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
watch the other children while she eats lunch, enjoys a relaxing shower, or takes a short nap. When mom is rested, fed, and freshened up, it can really make her feel ready to take on the rest of the day.
Help with the older kids
Show support by offering to pick up the older kids, even if it’s just for a couple hours. If you are taking your own children to the park, swing by and pick up hers for the afternoon. This gets them out of the house and gives mom a break. Driving the kids to school or activities is also a big help. Time alone with baby may be just what mom needs.
Ask about her birth story
Giving birth is a huge milestone, an experience no mom will ever forget. Every birth has a story and many times, there aren’t a lot of chances to tell it. Ask about her birth story and listen. Becoming a mom is a joyful, stressful, awe inspiring, and life changing experience.
Bring a gift for mom
Many people bring gifts for the baby, but mom is usually the one doing all the work. Bring a snack or treat for mom to enjoy. Other great gifts are ones that pamper mom or make her feel beautiful and comfortable in her postpartum body. Lotion, perfume, a new nightgown, or slippers are some good ideas.
Don’t stay too long
Families who have newborns generally like to have company, especially if they pitch in around the house and with the kids. However, don’t overstay your welcome. New parents tire easily. Visit the family, bring a meal, and help out, but watch for clues as to when the family would like some alone time.
Take her somewhere
Mom may not be able to drive for a few weeks after birth. Offer to take her on errands or just out for coffee. Getting out of the house can do wonders for attitude.
Don’t give advice
An important tip for anyone chatting with a new mom is to listen, but don’t give advice unless you are asked. It can be frustrating and overwhelming to get unsolicited advice from everyone she bumps into. Offer several options and see what sounds most appealing to the new mom. Any offer to help is always appreciated by a family adjusting to having a new baby in the house. mp Sarah Lyons, mom of six, has learned first hand what it is like to adjust to a new baby in the house. She is so grateful for the family and friends that helped her as each baby came home and loves to return the favor to others.
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
60
www.montgomeryparents.com
by
St Pl
(S
ha Sa wit ven pla kee ele for ere exe are bo Ste
Su
(S
wit yo the ha wit Sp an inc thi Th for en in the
s
New Ideas for Fresh Air Fun
e s. If k, n.
n’t h ul,
but
er
ew s.
. w
o .
w
he
th e
e
ds
-
e.
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
With sedentary entertainment establishing itself firmly in the landscape of kid’s pastimes through video games and other electronic outlets, finding ways to lure kids outdoors and into the sunlight is a growing challenge. Providing children with activities and toys that offer enough fun to counter the indoor lazies can be the catalyst that gets kids off the couch and outside to play. Fight the siren call of the sofa with these awesome resources that beckon kids toward better recreation in the great outdoors.
by Gerry Paige Smith
Step2 Naturally Playful Sand Table
Rainbow Kite for Kids
The tactile delight of sand play has called to kids for ages. The Step2 Sand Table elevates this experience with a versatile design that offers a venue for sandbox high-jinks, water play and more. The lock-down lid that keeps sand or water protected from elements and debris also features formed roadways for cars and toys to explore when the box is covered. The table vs. ground box design subtly supports movement and exercise as kids stand and move around as they play. With the play area raised, sandy bottoms and tracked-in debris from seated sand boxes is minimized. Perfect for patios, porches and driveways, the Step2 Sand Table lifts sand play to a new level.
Drawing on a nostalgic past-time that many of today’s kids have yet to experience, kite flying offers a powerful experience for youth as they test the wind and use it to power their own vehicle of flight. Ideal for when the wind picks up, the Rainbow Kite is an easy to assemble and navigate toy that helps kids become sensitive to air currents as they launch and direct the loft of this kite. Improved coordination, predictive thinking and patience are all benefits that can evolve from a child’s kite flying experience. This kite’s bright rainbow graphics are reflective of similar sky bound delight that draws our eyes upward with wonder and awe. For one of the best outdoor experiences when the breeze blows in, go fly a kite!
Super Duper Spinner
Kidoozie Pop-Up ‘n Play Goal
(A Great Life)
(Step2)
(Super Spinner)
There’s an exhilaration that comes with swinging that calls to humans young and old. No longer limited to the old back-and-forth, the pendulum has swung in a whole new direction with the super-sized Super Duper Spinner that moves in every direction and spins. Easily installed with the included hardware and hung from a sturdy limb or secure supports, this mildew-resistant swing boasts a weight limit of 650 pounds. The expanded seat size of the Super Duper Spinner features room for riders to spread out or add a passenger for the swing experience. Made in the USA, the Super Duper Spinner is a strong entry in the swing market with more room for friends and family to share the ride.
(Kidoozie)
Kicking the ball around is always better with a goal for the ground game. The Kidoozie Goal quickly turns any lawn or dirt surface into a practice arena for kids to run, pass and kick with a goal in sight. Using easy pop-up design, this goal slips right out of its travel bag, unfolds and anchors down quickly with no game delays. Improved physical coordination, dexterity and sportsmanship can be welcome rewards as kids move the ball toward the goal. Ideal for single kickers or group play, the Kidoozie Pop-up ‘n Play Goal is the perfect portable package of outdoor activity for fun-sized soccer fans.
o
om
Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com
61
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
2017
Once and Again
4141 Highway 14, 290.0150 We are a children’s consignment shop that specializes in lightly used children’s clothing, toys, books, nursery décor and accessories, maternity clothing, and nursing supplies. Please visit our Facebook page at Once and Again Millbrook
Patty Cakes International Inc.
1726 West Third Street 272.2826 Bronzed baby plaques with hands and feet. Picture frames, piggy banks, bracelets for baby gifts. Please visit our website at www.pattycakes.com.
The Shoppes at My Kids Attic
(ads on pages 19 and 31) 401 Coliseum Blvd., Eastbrook Shopping Center 270.1456 Gifts for all occasions. Engraved & monogrammed gifts, Children’s couture and much, much more. www.mykidsattic.biz
Retail Montgomery Babies R Us (inside Toys R Us)
5484 Atlanta Highway, 272.6706 Large selection of baby clothes, baby accessories, bedding, baby furniture and equipment.
Barb’s on Mulberry
(ad on page 63) 1923 Mulberry St., 269.2272 Children’s fashions, Original Art, Gifts and Toys Please visit us at www.barbsonmulberry.com.
Born Children’s Boutique
3014 Zelda Place (Next to Publix), 215.9140 Clothing, gifts, diaper bags, burp clothes, cribs, crib, toddler bedding and much, much more. www.bornboutique.com
Namedropper / Storkland
7107 East Chase Parkway 277.7118 or 277.BABY The Name Dropper carries all your favorite children’s designer clothing, shoes and accessories. Storkland sells the finest in baby furniture, care seats, strollers, clothing and unique gifts. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Prattville Fanci Free
146 W Main Street, 358.1524 Wide selection of children’s clothing, accessories and monogramming. Please visit us on Facebook under Fanci Free Boutique
Prenatal Physicians Montgomery Central Alabama Ob-Gyn Associates PA 265.3543 or 215.3400 2024 Chestnut Street, Montgomery Roger S. Duggar, M.D.; Christopher R. Duggar, M.D.; Edward W. Reed, M.D. Specialize in Gynecology & Obstetrics, Female Infertility and Surgery
Latoya Clark, M.D.
284.1500, 1758 Park Place, Suite 301 Specializes in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Dent Williams, M.D.
409.9550, 7045 Sydney Curve, Montgomery Specializes in Obstetrics, including 4-Dimensional Ultrasound Technology, Gynecology and Infertility. www.drdentwilliams.com 62
Female and Maternity Care
288.3400 2601 Woodley Park Drive, Montgomery Henry Johnson, M.D. FACOG; Julian McIntyre, M.D Services offered: Gynecology & Obstetrics
Montgomery Obstetrical & Gynecological Associates
284.2355 2173 Normandie Drive, Montgomery Dr. Cheryl Zimmerman and Dr. Victor Pena Offers services in Gynecology & Obstetrics
Montgomery Women’s Health Assoc.
281.1191 470 Taylor Rd., Suite 300 Dr. Joe D. McClinton, M.D.; James R. Dockery, Jr., M.D.; Judi A. Jehle, M.D.; Rebecca S. Miller, M.D.; Gregory Philip Jones, DO, MPH; Valerie Waddell, MD; Katie Sanderson, CRNP Routine prenatal care, High risk prenatal care including non-invasive prenatal testing, In-office ultrasound, In-office nonstress testing and biophysical testing, VBACs for patients who want to try and meet guidelines for trying, External cephalic version. Please visit our website at www.montgomerywomenshealth.com
The Montgomery Women’s Primary Care
356.4873 8134 Seaton Place, Montgomery Dr. Roosevelt McCorvey Services offered: Gynecology & Obstetrics
Ob/Gyn Associates of Montgomery PC
(ads on pages 7 and 65) 279.9333 (for both locations) 495 Taylor Rd., Montgomery 630 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville 6992 Winton Blount Blvd., Nurse Midwife Location Gregory Waller, M.D.; Allen Dupre, M.D.; Keith Martin, M.D.; Joseph Desautels, M.D.; Mathew Phillips, M.D.; Benjamin Griggs, M.D.; Natalie Needham, M.D.; Paula Sullivan, DO; Robert Beaird, M.D.; William Thomas, MD; Dent Williams, MD; Vicki Brooks, CNM; Melissa Hatter, CNM; Tracey Mendelsohn, CRNP; Michelle Aplin, CRNP, Della Fuller, CRNP. Specialize in Gynecology, Obstetrics, 4-D Ultrasound and High Risk/Low Risk pregnancy. www.obgynmontgomery.com
Physicians for Women
290.4200 287 Mitylene Park Drive, Montgomery 491.4200 645 McQueen Smith Rd., Prattville Ralph M. Garrard, M.D.; Byron P Lawhon, M.D; Winston M Ashurst, M.D.,; Al Newman III, M.D.; Dr. Jennifer J Logan, M.D.; W McCain Ashurst II, M.D. Gynecology & Obstetrics, Female Infertility and Surgery www.mypfw.com www.montgomeryparents.com
Gle
264 Ser
Wh
263 175 Kim FAC Ser and
P
M
Ala
281 Pro Dr. MD Aar
All
277 Dr. Dia
D
.
r,
ce -
Glen Saucer, M.D. FACOG
264.2422, 1722 Pine Street, Suite 603 Services offer in Gynecology & Obstetrics
Whittington, Kouri and Gentry P.C.
263.3630 1758 Park Place #201, Montgomery Kim Whittington, M.D. FACOG, David Kouri, M.D. FACOG and Jason Gentry, M.D. FACOG Services offered: Gynecology & Obstetrics, Infertility and Low/High Risk
Pediatric Care Montgomery Alabama Neonatal Medicine PC
281.7523, 2019 Normandie Drive Provide primary healthcare for infants. Dr. Cynthia M. Bonner, MD, Dr. J.A. Newton, MD., and Dr. Lynn K. Whittington, M.D., Dr. Aaron R. Millage
All About Kids
277.5431, 2921 Zelda Rd. Dr. Michael Doyle, M.D.; Dr. Nicole Sheffield, M.D Diagnose and treat children for illnesses, inju-
ries, conditions and developmental issues. www.zeldapeds.com
Slip” service and a prescription line. www.mykidsdr.com
East Montgomery Pediatrics
Dr. Gillis Payne
Montgomery Pediatric Associates PA
Pediatric Healthcare
337 St. Lukes Drive, 356.1411 Dr. Elmer Roque Primary healthcare for newborns to 18 years old. 260.9129, 420 Cotton Gin Road John Sumners, M.D., James Rabon, M.D., Daria Anagnos, M.D. Provide primary health care for infants, children and adolescents.
Partners in Pediatrics
272.1799, 8160 Seaton Place, Montgomery 136 E. Main Street, Prattville Catherine Woods, M.D., Susan Brannon, M.D., Cheryl Outland, M.D., Lamenda Blakeney, M.D., Elizabeth Diebel, M.D., Rama Mukkamala, M.D., Melissa S. McNally, M.D. Services offered: Sick and well care visits, pediatric and adolescent medicine, Vaccinations, “On-Call” service each night and on weekends for urgent medical matters, “Nurse line” service for minor illness and general well being, “Blue
244.7209, 7006 Fulton Court Provide quality health care for sick visits, newborn care, well child visits, immunizations and more. 273.9700, 4700 Woodmere Blvd. Martin Glover, M.D., David Morrison, M.D., Den Trumbell, M.D., Jeffrey Simon, M.D. Provide quality care for infants, children, adolescents and to assist parents in the endeavor of rearing their children to reach their optimal physical, emotional and spiritual development. www.pedhealthcare.com
Pediatrics Twilight
213.1361, 7026 Sydney Curve Norma Davis, MD, Developmental Pediatrician We are an after-hours pediatric urgent care. Dr. Davis treats pediatric patients who have urgent illnesses or injuries and offers an alternative to long waiting periods at the emergency room. www.pediatricsattwilight.com
-
h w
n,
-
Dr. D.
om
63
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Physician’s to Children
293.5033 470 Taylor Rd., Suite 210 M.D., Cheryl Fekete, M.D., Dr. Karen Doles, M.D., Alicia Hughes, M.D., Dina Winston-Doctson, M.D., Dr. Kendra Gillis Colvin, M.D. and Dr. Olivia Garcia, M.D. Services provided: Infant, child and adolescent health care, Sick and well visits, Developmental problems and immunizations. www.childrensal.org
Professional Pediatrics
(ad on page 12) 271.5959 4154 Carmichael Rd. Dr. C Allen White, Dr. Robert L. Coggin, Dr. David W. Drennen, Dr. Malissa K. Hoy, D.O. Provides physical, mental and social health care for infants, children, and adolescents. We offer the following services: X-rays, Medical Laboratory, Surgical of minor lacerations, routine newborn immunizations, Health maintenance exams for older children and teenagers, Sports and camp physical exams, Pre-college exams and forms, Blue slips for school admission, In office Emergency Care on week nights, Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons, Pulmonary
function testing, Hearing testing and tympanometry, Vision screening, Evaluation of Attention Deficit Disorder and Nebulizer treatments for asthma. www.professionalpediatrics.com
William E. Sumners, M.D.
288.8222, 2161 Normandie Drive Quality health care for newborn, child and adolescent. Sick and wellness visits, immunizations, child development, sport and camp screenings and more. www. drsumnersonline.com
Catherine Woods, M.D., Susan Brannon, M.D., Cheryl Outland, M.D., Lamenda Blakeney, M.D., Elizabeth Diebel, M.D., Rama Mukkamala, M.D., Melissa S. McNally, M.D. Services offered: Sick and well care visits, pediatric and adolescent medicine, Vaccinations, “On-Call” service each night and on weekends for urgent medical matters, “Nurse line” service
272.1799 8160 Seaton Place, Montgomery 136 E. Main Street, Prattville
Ca
78 Pro vic ww
W
815 Pro ole vis on
for minor illness and general well being, “Blue Slip” service and a prescription line. www. mykidsdr.com
N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2017 2011
TH E LEARNING TREE C H I L D D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R S , I N C . Your children deserve the best, why not give it to them. We pride ourselves at The Learning Tree in having the best child care program for ages 6 wks. to 12 yrs. We are D.H.R. Licensed and provide transportation to and from public school. Full Day Care and Half day (morning or afternoon).
ENROLL NOW, CALL TODAY!
5 Convenient Locations:
6wks-12yrs available at all locations but Carmichael Rd.
1816 Glynwood Dr. Prattville - 365-1451 I 288 Deatsville Hwy. Millbrook - 285-1188 1767 Halcyon Blvd. - 272-3188 I 3335 Woodley Rd. - 284-5560 I 4120 Carmichael Rd. - 271-4733
SPECIAL OFFER
FREE REGISTRATION
64
D
Ob M
(ad 279 495 Mid and ww
Ri
Do Ch Pro par eve rra htt
Sw
(ad 334 Pos ser Lea fec cha you ww fac sw
L
With this coupon and new enrollment only. Up to $85 Value!
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
361 Joh An Jon Pro chi
W
Prattville Partners in Pediatrics
Pr
Ba
(ad E. Off pum www.montgomeryparents.com
., .,
ns,
ce
om
Prattville Pediatric Associates
361.7811, 645 McQueen Smith Rd. N, John Sumners, M.D., James Rabon, M.D., Daria Anagnos, M.D., Nicole Percival, CRNP, Katie Jones, CRNP Provide sick and well child visits, immunizations, child development, sports screenings and more.
Wetumpka Carlile Pediatrics
78 Cambridge Court, 567.6915 Provide complete and personal health care services for infants, children and adolescents. www.carlilepediatrics.com
Wetumpka Pediatric Clinic
815 Jackson Trace Rd., 567.2882 Provide neonatal care, care for newborn - adolescence, sick visits, child development, well visits, immunizations and more. Please visit us on Facebook under Wetumpka Pediatrics.
Doulas & Midwives Ob/Gyn Associates of Montgomery PC
(ads on pages 7 and 65) 279.9333 495 Taylor Rd. Midwives: Vicki Brooks, Lisa Blount and Melissa Hatter www.obgynmontgomery.com
River Region Association of Doulas
Doulas: Traci Weafer, Rebekah Hawkins and Christina Clark Providing Prenatal counseling, labor and postpartum doula services, breastfeeding education, events and support groups. rradoulas@gmail.com; rradoulas.weebly.com https://www.facebook.com/RRADoulas/
Sweet Kiss Fertility
(ad on page 82) 334-354-6730 Postpartum Doula and Fertility Awareness services for the River Region! Learn the Fertility Awareness Method for effective and natural birth control, maximizing chances of conception, or to better understand your hormonal health. www.sweetkissfertility.com facebook.com/sweetkissfertilitydoula sweetkissfertility@gmail.com
Lactation Baptist Medical Center South (ad on page 13) E. South Blvd, 286.2829 Offers breast feeding classes, Information on pump rentals and Lactation consultants.
65
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Baptist Medical Center East
(ad on page 53) Taylor Road, 244.8360 Offers breast feeding classes, Information on pump rentals and Lactation consultants
Jackson Hospital Mom & Baby Center 1725 Pine Street, 293.8485 Offers breast feeding classes and pump rental information.
Parenting Programs Alabama Department of Public Health (ad on Inside Front Cover) All Kids- Children’s Health Insurance Program. www. adph.org; 1(888)373.5437. A low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children under age 19. Benefits include regular check-ups and immunizations, sick child doctor visits, prescriptions, vision and dental care, hospitalization, mental health and substance abuse services, and much more. Women, Infants and Children (WIC), 1(888) 942.4673, a supplemental nutrition program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, women who had a baby within the last six months, infants,
and children under the age of five. One must meet income requirements and have a nutritional risk that proper nutrition could help to improve. Plan First Family Planning for Women- 1-888-737-2083, Alabama’s Plan First Program is a family planning program for women ages 19 to 55. Family planning can help you and your family have a better life.
Baptist Health Centering Pregnancy Classes
(ad on page 13) 273.4445 Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp: A fast paced one-day class that includes the same information offered in our weekly series. Maternity Area Tour is also included as a part of this class. Fee is $60 per couple (includes 2 box lunches) payable at class by cash or check. Space is limited. Registration is required. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class: Class provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class.
This class is $20 per couple. Space is limited. Registration is required. Maternity Area Tour, Baptist Medical Center East: A tour of the Labor and delivery area and Recovery, Postpartum and Nursery Areas. Space is limited. Registration is required. Caring For Your Newborn: Our newborn care class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, and appearance and sleep patterns. Partners are encouraged to attend. This class is $20 per couple. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please email smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org for more information regarding class dates and times.
Jackson Hospital Mom & Baby Center
1725 Pine Street, 293.8600 PreNatal Tours: Free Prepared Childbirth Class: Understanding Birth – so you will understand The role of the labor support person, the process of labor and delivery as well as coping with the pain of labor. Sessions taught throughout the year. Fee per class
Bre tau clas Lac dur sup app Inf hav for Jac
La
688 ing Eve of e Con Bre of e Me Mo of t Bou Lea wh and tec are bab info ple of M
Th 1(
ww Ac Chi Chi num the tion con ava
In
Kin
271 dre kin
YM
243 ww 6m cla
S
Fo
A5 Montgomery Parents I February 2017
66
www.montgomeryparents.com
r
is
x
ep is
so of
e
om
Breastfeeding Class: Breastfeeding instruction, taught by a certified lactation consultant. Fee for class Lactation Support: You may encounter problems during your breastfeeding. We make lactation support available to you after delivery by phone of appointment. FREE Infant CPR: Taught by a certified instructor, so you have peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for any situation. Fee for class. Please visit www. Jackson.org/classes or call 293.8497.
La Leche League of Montgomery
6880 Winton Blount Blvd. (East Montgomery Imaging Center) Evening series Meeting in Millbroook, 1st Tuesday of every month at 6-7:30 p.m. at the Once Again Consignment store. Breastfeeding Café in Montgomery, 2nd Thursday of every month at 6-7:30 p.m. at Dalraida United Methodist Church. Morning Series meeting in Montgomery, 3rd Friday of the month at 10-11:30 a.m. at 6880 Winton Bount Blvd. Babtist East Imaging Center. 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, babies and children are welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please visit our facebook page at La Leche League of Montgomery.
The Parenting Assistance Line (PAL)1(866) 962.3030
www.pal.ua.edu A collaborative service of the University of Alabama Child Development Resources and the Alabama Children’s Trust Fund. When callers call the toll-free number, a parenting resource specialist will answer the phone, listen to you, then offer helpful information and support .Parenting is tough! Call for FREE confidential help. Parent Resource Specialists are available from 8:00am-8:00pm Monday- Friday.
Infant Classes Kindermusik of Montgomery
271.3264; Music and Movement classes for children. Newborn -5 years. Visit us online at www. kindermusik.com
YMCA Tot Swim Classes
2435 Bell Rd., 271.4343; 3407 Pelzer, 272.3390 www.ymcamontgomery.org 6 months to 3 years. Parents and tots swim classes offered year round.
Support Services Footprints Ministry
A 501(C) 3 organization that assists families 67
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
with children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. They serve Montgomery, Birmingham and Huntsville. Footprints distributes gift bags to NICU families that contain many items to provide hope and comfort. Footprints also assists with hotel stays, gas cards and funeral expenses. Footprints walks alongside NICU families during their child’s stay in the NICU and encourages them on their difficult journey. “We now offer “The House of Hope” residence for out of town families. If you know a NICU family that needs to be ministered to please contact Kim Wilson at 391.1594. You may also visit http://www.footprintsministry.info for more information.
Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO)
328.1202; Halo offers family-oriented, Christianbased 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 their burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org
Mom2Mom
Playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information.
Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday)
First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919.
The Montgomery Multiples Club
A non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St. in Montgomery; 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail.com or visit http://vfcmops.weebly.com/.
P
Lo
(ad 399 Up onl Ple as for rap
C
Ch
(ad Sal Co item fur ww
Th
Mo Ple You gm
Do
546 Da Sea wo and
Ki
(ad 272 Ma 436 Go Mo sem con GR ww
Mo
558 Pra Pra Ap net
2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690
460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411
Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen Montgomery Parents I February 2017
68
www.montgomeryparents.com
M
(ad 270 401 Feb Ch and ww
d e
e t -
litat e is S
m t?
om
Photography Lori Mercer Photography
(ad on page 65) 399.1884 Up to 2 hours coverage, disc of printable files, online gallery to share with family and friends. Please call for pricing. Reserve your date early as availability is limited. Please visit my website for more information at www.lorimercerphotography.com.
Consignment Sales Children’s Clothing Exchange
(ad on page 2) Sale February 10-15 Consignment sale held twice a year with quality items at bargain prices. Children’s used clothing, furniture, equipment, toys and accessories. www.childrensclothingexchange.com
The Divine Children’s Show
Montgomery’s Most Amazing Overstock Sale Please visit dcskids.com for more information. You may email Robbie at dcsmontgomery@ gmail.com to be added to the email list.
Doodlebugs Consignment Sale
546.4722 Dates to announced Seasonal consignment sale featuring gently worn children’s clothing, toys, baby equipment and so much more! www.doodlebugs-kids.com
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Kids Carousel
(ad on page 27) 272.5263 March 4-11 4367 Atlanta Hwy (old Olympia Sporting Goods location) Montgomery’s original and largest children’s semi-annual consignment sale with over 400 consignors and thousands of square feet of GREAT bargains to be found. www.kidscarouselinc.com
Mom’s Marketplace
558-7560; 616 Hwy 82 West, Prattville (Inside Prattville Pickers Event Center) Prattville’s Seasonal Consignment Sale for Moms April 8-15. Please visit us at momsmarketplace. net for more information.
My Kids Attic
(ad on page 19) 270.1456 401 Coliseum Blvd (Eastbrook Shopping Center) February 4-11 Children’s clothing, toys, furniture, learning aids and everything you need for the little one. www.mykidsattic.biz mp 69
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups This Month
Wednesday, February 1
Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided.
Thursday, February 2
Human Slingshot, racing camels, crazy comedy with circus clowns, daring aerialists and cirque artists. First one-hundred adult tickets sold online are only $9.95 at www.GardenBrosCircus.com. Winter Wonderland Father Daughter Dance Bell Road YMCA from 6:30-8:30 p.m. We invite fathers,
February2017 AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes -Every Saturday 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.
Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Shen Yun 7:30 p.m. New York-based Shen Yun is the first company to present classical Chinese dance on a global scale. China’s ethnic and folk dance styles fill the stage with color and energy. A full, live orchestra blends East and West with thunderous battle drums, masterful vocalists and spectacular backdrops. Tickets begin at $70. Visit www. mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Spring T-Ball, Baseball Registration at Millbrook Parks and Recreation 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Millbrook Parks and Recreation Department at 3390 Main Street in Millbrook. Ages 3 to 16 are welcomed to sign up. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Because of Winn-Dixie -- Through February 12 Based on the novel by Kate DiCamillo, this new musical by Tony-winning Spring Awakening songwriter Duncan Sheik and Tony-nominated Legally Blonde lyricist Nell Benjamin is based on the (Newberry honor) children’s book of the same title. The story is about a dog (named Winn-Dixie) who brings new life and hope into a family as Opal Buloni and her preacher father settle in a new Southern town full of quirky characters. Recommended for ages nine and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
Friday, February 3
Dancing with the Stars Live at BirminghamJefferson Civic Center 8 p.m. Ticket prices begin at $50. For more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400. Friday Night Hoops -- Also February 17 Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every first and third Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org. Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also February 17, 24 and March 3 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/first child; $15 per sibling. For ages 5-12. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walkins welcome. Visit www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com for more info.
Saturday, February 4
Garden Brothers Circus at Garrett Coliseum Show times: 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. See live elephants, motorcycle daredevils somersaulting and spinning in a big Globe of Doom, Chinese acrobats, the
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Civil Rights Walking Tours -- Every Saturday and Sunday 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. start times. Tours start from The Village Gallery. Come explore Montgomery’s history walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era. Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under - $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling (334) 595-9243.
Junior League of Montgomery Presents 62nd Annual Rummage Sale 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Alcazar Shriners Temple, 555 Eastern Blvd. Rummage Sale offers the public the opportunity to purchase deeply discounted, gently used items donated by Junior League members. It will feature furniture, household goods and décor, linens, electronics, holiday decorations, children’s items, and much more. All proceeds go directly back to the local community in the form of grants to deserving River Region organizations. Advance tickets for $3 can be purchased online at www.jlmontgomery.org or at the following community ticket outlets: Barb’s on Mulberry, Junior League of Montgomery Office, and The Shoppes of My Kids Attic. $5 at the door. For more info, e-mail jlmontgomerycommunications@gmail.com.
Sunday, February 5
Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is a Valentine-themed photo box, perfect for keeping photos of loved ones. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://workshops.homedepot.com/workshops/ kids-workshops. Paint the Park for Jody 5K Color Run 9 a.m. Gold Star Park, Wetumpka. Proceeds will support the Jody Marie Sanford Memorial Scholarship Fund. Jody was a Wetumpka High School student and cross country Athlete awho passed away February 2, 2014. Last year four Elmore County seniors were awarded a scholarship because of the funds raised by this event. Visit https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Wetumpka/PainttheParkforJody5KColorFunRun.
70
Fau Fin 7:3 Org con sic.
Clo nin 7:3 p.m mo 262
uncles, grandfathers, step-fathers, etc. (sorry, no mothers and sons) to bring their special princess to dance the evening away. Food, fun and a photo are included. Bring your dancing shoes to compete in the dance-off. Prizes go to our dance-off winners and our Best Dressed Couple. Pre-register by February 3 for $30 per couple, $5 for additional child (members) and $60 per couple, $5 for additional child (non-members). Extra $10 for registration on February 4. Call (334) 271-4343 for more info.
4-Hour ACT Cram with Sylvan of Montgomery 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 2640 Zelda Road. $35 per student. Call (334) 262-0043 or e-mail cd@ montgomerysylvan.com to register.
and to e app e-m Fac
Special Needs Skate -- Also February 19 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. First Sundays at One -- Also March 5 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the traveling exhibitions as well as the Museum’s Permanent Collection in these FREE docentled tours the FIRST Sunday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
Wednesday, February 8
Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.
Thursday, February 9
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Restless Heart 7:30 p.m. Restless Heart has enjoyed one of the most successful careers in country music history, placing more than 25 singles on the charts. With six consecutive #1 hits, four albums have been certified Gold by the RIAA, and the band has won a wide range of awards from many organizations, including the Academy of Country Music’s Top Vocal Group trophy. Tickets begin at $15. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Capri Theatre Classics Presents Princess Bride 7:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Prattville Public Library Chocolate Baking Challenge 6-7 p.m. 254 Doster Street, Prattville. FREE event. Winners awarded for best chocolate cake, best fudge,
www.montgomeryparents.com
We of J 7:3 p.m Fro mu fam “I W Pris who exp be Am the wel wet
Fau Foo
7
nd
he
.
.
and people’s choice favorite. Must be 15 years or older to enter. To register, fill out a Chocolate Challenge application with $5 per entry fee. Call (334) 365-3396, e-mail prattvillelibrary@yahoo.com or message us on Facebook at Autauga Prattville Public Library. Fauré Piano Quartet at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 7:30-9 p.m. Hosted by the Montgomery Chamber Music Organization. There will be a reception following the concert. For more info, visit montgomerychambermusic.org/tickets.html or call (334) 277-3505. Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Presents The Thirtynine Steps -- Through February 19 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Adapted by Patrick Barlow. For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530. (*Recommended for ages 8 and up.*) Wetumpka Depot Presents Ring of Fire: the Songs of Johnny Cash -- Through February 25 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Directed by Kristy Meanor. From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love, faith, struggle, success, home and family. More than two dozen classic Cash hits, including “I Walk the Line,” “A Boy Named Sue” and “Folsom Prison Blues” are performed by a multi-talented cast who paint a musical portrait of the country boy. The experience created by Richard Maltby, Jr. promises to be a foot-stomping, crowd pleasing salute to a uniquely American legend. The cast not only sings its way through the music, but members all play various instruments as well. For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or e-mail kmeanor@ wetumpkadepot.com. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents Neil Simon’s Fools -- Also February 10-11, 16-18 and 23-25
Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner served 6:15-6:45 p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Faulkner University Dinner Theatre, 5346 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery. Visit https://www.faulkner.edu/undergrad/student-life/ student-activities/dinner-theater/dinner-theatreschedule/ or call 877-840-0457. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents To Kill a Mockingbird -Through February 26 Harper Lee’s classic, adapted by Christopher Sergel, will be directed by Sam Wallace. The production will run Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., with a special performance at 7:30 p.m. on Valentine’s Day. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit wobt.prattvilleal.gov.
Friday, February 10
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Blackberry Smoke 8 p.m. Blackberry Smoke has evolved from roughedged club act to arena-ready rock ‘n’ roll juggernauts, while steadily extending and expanding the Southern rock tradition. The band has had songs featured in movie and video game soundtracks, including EA Sports’ Madden NFL 16, performed on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Conan and toured with and befriended idols such as The Marshall Tucker Band, ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd and George Jones. Tickets begin at $25. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.
Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also February 24 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.
Saturday, February 11
Crossroads Theater in Pike Road Returns The Pike Road Arts Council presents A Sweet Strangeness Thrills My Heart: The World of Sallie Independence Foster, 1861-1887. This must-see act tells the story of twelve-year-old Sallie Independence Foster who was living in Florence, Ala., in 1861 when the Civil War began. For 26 years, she kept a diary, along with a collection of papers and letters from her brothers off at war. Join storyteller Dolores Hydock and music historian Bobby Horton as they create a poignant, powerful, humorous, and honest picture of her world turned upside-down. The evening will also feature a meal from Pike Road’s own, Tammy Griffin of A Catered Affair. Tickets are $40, with proceeds benefiting the Pike Road Arts Council. Stop by Town Hall, call (334) 272-9883 or e-mail info@pikeroad.us and access our online calendar at www.pikeroad.us to reserve your tickets!
-
nte
on
.
all
ge
all
or
nge
e,
om
71
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups Animal Enrichment Day at Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-2 p.m. From zoo animals to our pets at home and even including us, we all need enrichment. A chance to smell a new scent, taste a new flavor, play a new game or figure out a challenging puzzle or game. The result is to stimulate behaviors resembling those for that species found in the wild. For more info, call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com. AUM/CAAC Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival Celebration 2:30 p.m. Alcazar Shrine Temple, 555 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery. Admission for non-CAAC members, $12; CAAC members, $8; students with ID, $8; children ages 3 to 10, $5; children under 3, free. A dinner featuring traditional Chinese New Year delicacies will follow this year’s celebration performance. Before dinner, performers from AUMCI and CAAC as well as from other partners will treat the audience to lively music and colorful dancing, including youth and adult dragon dancing. To attend, RSVP by Feb. 6 to confucius@aum. edu or (334) 244-3012 for registration and ticket info. Alabama Nature Center’s Critter Crawl 5K Beginning at 9 a.m., the ANC will host the Critter Crawl 5K trail run benefiting the ANC education programs and taking runners through a portion of the ANC’s trail system. There will also be a one-mile fun run beginning at 10 a.m. 5K starts at 9 a.m. and one-mile starts at 10. Both races start and finish at the ANC NaturePlex. Sign up on active.com. Prattville’s Mardi Gras Parade and Celebration Family-friendly free event. Enjoy floats, antique cars, horses, dancers, and lots of candy, beads and Moon Pies tossed to the crowd. Start out at 11 a.m. with children’s inflatables and play area and food, arts and crafts. Then pick your favorite spot to enjoy the parade which starts at 2 p.m. The route will start in front of the Courthouse at 4th and Court Streets and follow Main Street through downtown, turn right on Northington Street, then left on Doster Road and end at the Stanley Jensen Stadium. For more info, call (334) 595-0854. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Two Gentlemen of Verona -- Through March 4 Proteus is in love with Julia until he gets an eyeful of his best friend’s girl, Silvia. When friends turn into rivals things quickly go comic as they clash with bandits, a bad-mannered dog, an angry father and a girl who won’t be dumped. This condensed version of Shakespeare’s first play is sure to be a big hit with all ages! Recommended for ages nine and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Free Valentine’s MAKE Event at Michael’s 1-3 p.m. Make it from the heart! Say “eye love you” with cute, family-friendly card projects. Buy the blank cards (large or small) and the rest of your supplies are free. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/. Montgomery Miracle League 2017 Spring Registration -- Also February 18 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (both Saturdays) at the Miracle League Field (Field 8) located at the Ed Thompson Complex on Ray Thorington Road, Montgomery (across the street from Blount Elementary and Carr Middle School). The Miracle League provides an opportunity for children with physical and/or cognitive disabilities to play baseball. They play on a special field with a soft, synthetic covering to accommodate walkers, wheelchairs, crutches, and those a little unsteady on their feet. They have players with autism, Down Syn-
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
drome, cerebral palsy, deafness, blindness and brain injury, just to name a few. Coaches and buddies will be at the field on the days of registration, so bring your baseball player and let them practice while you fill out the forms! Registration fee is $30 (covers uniform and trophy). PLEASE NOTE: While there is a registration fee, many scholarships ARE available. For more info, e-mail montgomerymiracleleague@gmail.com. Cultural Crossroads XVI: Territorial Characters in Becoming Alabama 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Ala. Dept. of Archives and History, Sponsored by the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery, the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History and the Caroline Marshall Draughan Center for the Arts and Humanities of Auburn University. Join the caravan along with seven fellow travelers, historians all, who serve as guides over the often bumpy paths that finally led to Alabama’s recognition as an entity on the way to statehood! There will be time during the lunch break to visit the Archives’ interpretive museum, “Voices of Alabama.” Free to the public, $25 for lunch and refreshments catered by Jennie Weller Catering and Events. For more info, call 240-4500 or visit www. landmarksfoundation.com/events/upcoming-events/. 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. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley. com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.
Sunday, Febuary 12
Discovery Sundays -- Also March 5 Join Landmarks Foundation for its dynamic new series one Sunday a month at 2 p.m., and the program will vary from presentations at Old Alabama Town to field trips around Montgomery. Free to the public. Today’s program is “Midcentury Modern Preview Tour” and takes place at 301 Columbus St. Visit www. landmarksfoundation.com/ or call (334) 240-4500. Capri Theatre’s Pre-Valentine’s Day Party Reception featuring food and drink at 6 p.m.; Franco Zeffirelli’s classic adaptation of Romeo and Juliet at 7:30. Period costumes encouraged. All tickets $30; $20 of ticket tax-deductible. Proceeds to benefit the Capri Theatre. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.
Tuesday, February 14
Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Cash and the King Pays tribute to music icons Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. Enjoy live performances of their classic hits from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s in this all-new rock ‘n’ roll show with Scot Bruce (Elvis Presley) and Neil Morrow and (Johnny Cash). A specially selected buffet dinner is prepared by Jennie Weller Catering. Dinner is $30 per person. Buffet will open at 5:45 p.m. prior to the 7:30 p.m. performance of Cash and the King. All dining reservations must be made by 5 p.m. February 6. For more info or tickets, visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
Thursday, February 16
Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Wash-
72
February2017 ington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “Family Ties: Hidden BlackWhite Relationships in Antebellum Alabama,” presented by Sharony Green. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov.
of A pon num as w Dai fam call
Red Door Theatre Presents Tokens of Affection Through February 19 7:30 p.m. February 16-18; 2:30 p.m. matinee February 19. Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. Written by Topher Payne, directed by Kathryn Adams Wood. Tokens of Affection explores the empty nest syndrome, complications of long-term romance and general family dysfunction when a wife of 37 years announces she’s leaving her husband. Each partner seeks solace at the homes of their grown children, and hilarity ensues. The Garrett family learns that although the big things in life get all the attention, it’s the little things that matter most. This show is packed with clever dialogue, huge laughs and beautifully tender moments. Call (334) 738-8687 or e-mail info@reddoortheatre.org.
Su
Central Alabama Beekeepers Association Beginning Beekeeping Class -- Weekly through March 23 6-week class from 6-8 p.m. at Elmore County Extension Auditorium, 340 Queen Ann Road. $50/person if paid by Feb. 10; after Feb. 10, fee goes up to $75. Classes taught by master beekeepers include honey bee biology and behavior, where to put your hives and more. For more info, call (334) 799-2254. Bon Jovi at Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center 7:30 p.m. Legacy Arena. Ticket prices begin at $40. For more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.
Saturday, February 18
Prattauga Art Guild’s Art with a Heart 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Soup Cook-Off fundraising event sponsored by the Prattauga Art Guild supporting the Autauga Interfaith Care Center Food Bank. Soup teams will compete for the coveted Golden Bowl, Silver Ladle, and People’s Choice Awards. For a moderate donation to the AICC you will receive a bowl of soup from one of the local restaurant soup sponsors; for additional donation you also receive a handcrafted bowl made by a local artist. All proceeds go to the AICC. Held at the Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery on Chestnut Street. For more info, call (334) 595-0854. The Black Jacket Symphony Presents Queen’s Night at the Opera 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $30. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Millbrook Revelers Mardi Gras Parade & Festival Vendors will be at the Village Green on Main Street and open at 9 a.m. Umbrella Stroll through the park Mardi Gras style at 10:15 a.m. with the big parade rolling out at NOON sharp! Visit www.millbrookrevelers. org. Central Alabama Paranormal Investigations Haunted History Class 101 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Board Room, 116 E. Bridge Street, Wetumpka. Free 8-hour Paranormal 101 class with purchase of $40 Haunted History Tour extended ticket or $25 for class itself. To register, visit http://capiteam.wixsite.com/ therealparanormal GO Fishing Event at the Alabama Nature Center Get Outdoors and fish for catfish and bream in one
www.montgomeryparents.com
MP 7:3 Top and Box Blo and Is.” call
Tu
Joe 7-9 orig sta visi
Th
Ne The wom lun Arr And of b cos Mo 593 new
Mil Lad 7:3 2p Eng of a adv tick call
7
red
ckted ves.
n
of ANC’s bountiful ponds. From bass to catfish, the ponds are stocked and ready for your line! A limited number of fishing poles will be available for $2 a day as well as a limited amount of bait for a small fee. Daily admission is $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call 285-4550.
Friday, February 24
Sunday, February 19
His Vessel Ministries Hosts Special Teaching Event: The Grace of God 9 a.m.-noon at the Vessel Room located in the Historic Union Station in downtown Montgomery. The teaching will be conducted by Jo Hancock. Learn how to walk with God’s grace in your life every day so your life will bring Him glory! There is no registration fee, but a love offering will be accepted. For more info or to register, e-mail info@hisvessel.org or call (334) 356-4478.
s
MPAC Presents Foreigner 7:30 p.m. With ten multi-platinum albums and sixteen Top 30 hits, Foreigner is responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems including “Juke Box Hero,” “Feels Like the First Time,” “Urgent,” “Hot Blooded,” “Cold as Ice,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” and the worldwide #1 hit, “I Want To Know What Love Is.” Tickets begin at $28. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.
ue,
Tuesday, February 21
-
me, mily s he
ing
ion d es .
r For 0.
ms le, n
by e ut
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, February 23
Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of Montgomery invites all women of the River Region to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. Join us as our own Ildi Andrews shares with us about the fascinating world of beekeeping (www.benefits-of-honey.com). Lunch cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, February 20, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Leading Ladies -- Through February 26; Also March 2-5 7:30 p.m. except for February 26 and March 5 @ 2 p.m. Comedy involving two down-on-their-luck English Shakespearean actors who pose as the heirs of a wealthy old lady who is dying. Tickets are $12 in advance, $14 at the door, and $8 for 12 and under. For tickets or more info, visit www.millbrooktheater.com or call (334) 782-7317.
Twenty-One Pilots at Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center 7 p.m. Legacy Arena. Ticket prices begin at $37. For more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.
Saturday, February 25
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Christian Comedian Mark Lowry 7 p.m. Mark is a Christian singer, comedian and songwriter. He co-wrote the hit “Mary Did You Know” and was a member of the Gaither Vocal Band for 13 years. Tickets begin at $15. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Free Family Spring Painting Event at Michael’s 1-3 p.m. Celebrate spring by painting a birdhouse or clay pot with a cute fingerprint design. Buy the clay pot or birdhouse and the rest of your supplies are free. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/. Campfire Cooking at the Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. Come out and learn how to start a successful campfire and learn how to cook on a fire! We are providing dinner....hobo meals, smores and hot chocolate! Guests will prepare their own meal over the fire with provided ingredients. RSVP to (334) 2854550 or visit www.alabamawildlife.org/. Daily admission is $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. Wetumpka Mardi Gras and Festival Hosted by The Order of the Cimarron 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. vendor booths are open. Parade begins
at 1 p.m. Vendors contact Leeann Rouse at (334) 3248667. For parade info, contact Grif Pritchard at (256) 496-0032.
Sunday, February 26
Alabama DisABILITY Conference -- Through February 28 The Arc of Alabama, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to advocacy and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), their families and caregivers, announces the 2017 Alabama disABILITY Conference at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa Convention Center in Montgomery. Conference details and registration information are available at www. aldisabilityconference.org. Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams 2-4 p.m. Bring the whole family to this FREE Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts program and listen to the best jazz artists from the River Region perform or bring an instrument of your own and join in with the band! Seating is limited, so arrive early for this great afternoon of live music. Drop in the studios between 2 and 4 p.m. and create art projects with your children designed around exhibitions in the Museum’s Temporary Galleries. Thanks to the Alabama Roots Society for making Jazz Jams possible. No reservations necessary. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.
Tuesday, February 28
Boy Scout Troop 13 Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper 5-7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka, 100 W. Bridge St. The Boy Scouts invite you to their annual pancake supper featuring plates filled with pancakes, sausage and bacon, and all the coffee, orange juice and milk you can drink. Supper is free but donations are accepted. For more info, call (334) 567-8135.
Thursday, March 2
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Styx 7:30 p.m. Join us for the multimegamillion-selling rock band that has forged an indelible legacy both on record and onstage. Tommy Shaw is even a native of Montgomery! Tickets begin at $35. Visit www. mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.
IS YOUR HOME SECURE?
)
Let Interscapes take care of your homes’ safety, so you can take care of what matters most.
rs e
n en
We Specialize in: Intrusion Detection Security Monitoring Fire & CO Protection Video Surveillance Custom Home Theaters Home Automation and more!
ade ers.
rce
s
er
om
73
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups Event: In the Arts, Hosted by the MUSES and BTW 5-7 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. In the Arts is designed for teens who dream of working in the arts, offering them a chance to interact with professionals working in the visual arts, design, performance and literature, and to ask about the education, career paths and skills of those serving in leadership and creative roles in the arts. Many presenters bring examples of current projects. All ages are welcome at the event. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.
Friday, March 3
Beyond Ordinary Marriage Conference Presented by Centerpoint Fellowship Church -- Also March 4 Hunter Hills Church of Christ in Prattville. Cost is $100 per couple. Childcare is available for additional cost of $25 for first child; $15 for each additional child. Conference fee includes conference, breaks, continental breakfast, dinner and $5 off coupon for the book Beyond Ordinary. Registration is required. For more info and to register online, visit centeringlives.com.
Saturday, March 4
The Spirit of Rosa Parks Awards and Benefit Concert Presents Sheila E. and Friends 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Sheila E. and Friends, featuring Pete “Pops” Escovedo, Sheila E.’s legendary percussionist father, will bring the Purple Philanthropy tour that honors Prince’s humanitarianism and philanthropic work benefitting organizations that support youth in music, arts and sports education. Starting at 5 p.m., a Purple Carpet event is followed by The Spirit of Rosa Parks awards ceremony at 7 p.m. hosted by comedian Jonathan Slocumb with performances by Angella Christie, Dana Joi Morgan and Tribe of Judah. The famed University of Alabama Drumline will open the concert. Tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster.com and at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre’s box office. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Alabama Wildlife Federation Talladega Wild Game Cook-Off Local AWF chapters host annual Wild Game CookOffs across the state and everyone is invited to participate. These competitions are excellent ways for backyard chefs to show off their culinary skills and enjoy some good ‘ol fashion fun, fellowship, and fabulous food. Visit www.alabamawildlife.org/wildgame-cook-off/ for more info. 18th Annual Enlisted Heritage 5K Race & 1 Mile Fun Run 6:30-10 a.m. Montgomery Riverfront Park, 335 Coosa. Benefits the Enlisted Heritage Museum on Maxwell AFB. Proceeds will fund enlisted education programs, exhibits and displays. Participants head through the park’s underground tunnel entrance before passing Riverwalk Stadium. Runners will experience several historical landmarks, to include: the Alabama State Capitol, Alabama State Archives and History Museum, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, Rosa Parks Library & Museum & Children’s Wing, First White House of the Confederacy, as well as the Court Square Fountain. To volunteer, call (907) 301-2362 or find us on Facebook. Alabama Dance Theatre Presents 30th Annual Spring Concert -- Also March 5 Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts.This concert features “The Princess Stories and More” (March 4 at 2:30 p.m. is a shortened children’s matinee of “Princess Stories” only). Other performances are March 4 at 7:30 p.m. and March 5 at 2:30 p.m. Performance tickets are $15-$30. Special ticket price for children ages 12 and under of $15. For tickets, call (334) 241-2800 or visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com. *After the Saturday
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
matinee performance, children can meet the princesses onstage for an additional $10 which will include a chance to win a pearl necklace and earring set, donated by Harold’s Fine Jewelry.
Sunday, March 5
Discovery Sundays Join Landmarks Foundation for its dynamic new series one Sunday a month at 2 p.m., and the program will vary from presentations at Old Alabama Town to field trips around Montgomery. Free to the public. Today’s program is “Local Modernism” with Mark Driscoll and takes place at 301 Columbus St. Visit www. landmarksfoundation.com/ or call (334) 240-4500.
Thursday, March 9
Capri Theatre Classics Presents Goldfinger 7:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Sherlock Holmes -- Through March 25 A new adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes story by Geoffrey Sherman, this gripping tale of the world’s most famous detective features amazing twists and turns, accompanied by a healthy dose of comedy. Recommended for ages nine and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
Ongoing
Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. In Grandma’s Attic, kids can try on clothes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities to do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. Follow us on Facebook, call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs meeting on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building). Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. Brain Pump is a group exercise class, targeting children 4-12 years old. The class is the collaboration of a physical therapist and a kinesiology professor combining traditional therapy and exercise concepts with
74
February2017 the latest cutting edge research on movement and the brain. This is all done in a fun, energetic setting, that seems much more like playing than exercising. Brain Pump is taught at Metro Fitness on Saturdays from 1111:45 a.m. Contact Tiffany Higginbotham at Body Logic PT & Wellness (334-380-5920) for more info.
or w Tra
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. Central Alabama Contra Dancers Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and entire families are welcome. All levels of experience - including no experience. Dancing is on 1st and 3rd Fridays from 7-9 p.m. at the MASDA building, 2200 Popular St. For more info, visit www.contralines.com or email info@contralines.com. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 3241406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the Civil War and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Friday Night Hoops Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must play basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-2409452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka. al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005
www.montgomeryparents.com
625
Ha Sea me info com Offi
Mo Mo Thu 15. abl com
Mo 468 hel pro the noo mu
7
he t
or www.oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org).
11ogic
W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/ person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/ person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799 or visit http://www.troy.edu/planetarium/.
a at m
or
A) roth , 4-
day.
se.
Harriott II Riverboat Cruises Seasonal. Typical hours are 6:30-9 p.m. Live entertainment, cash bar and concessions available. For more info and available dates, visit www.funinmontgomery. com, call (334) 625-2100 or visit the Riverwalk Box Office at 200 Coosa Street. Montgomery Women’s Newcomers Group: Moving On After Moving In Thursdays from 9:15-11 a.m. beginning September 15. St. James UMC Cafe, Vaughn Rd. Childcare available. For more info, please contact pam.zavada@gmail. com or (256) 541-7888. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum 468 South Perry Street. Learn how 21 young people helped change our nation’s history using nonviolent protest. Black and white, male and female, none of them were older than 21. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, noon -4 p.m. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or call (334) 242-3184.
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 or vist www.landmarksfoundation.com/. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area and help new residents do the same. Meets every third Thursday (except special events, holidays) throughout the year at the Willis Bradford Branch of the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road in Prattville. For more info, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 414-8185 or nschrull@knology.net. Prattville Movie Club (for Teens) Meeting twice a month on Fridays, current Prattville Movie Club members range from 14-18 years old and meet at the Carmike Promenade 12 on Cobbs Ford Road. There are no GPA requirements and no class requirements. We are friends who enjoy moviegoing and want to meet others who also enjoy watching movies. For more info, call (334) 224-7811 or e-mail brandonperdue12@gmail.com. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays and holidays,
closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10. For more info, call 241-8615 or visit www.troy.edu/rosaparks/. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are February 15 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info. YMCA 7 to 11 Club Calling all children ages 7 to 11 for this fun, free event. While Mom and Dad are working out, join us for games, arts & crafts, service projects and more. Earn special beads for participation and try to break records for superior achievements. Monthly special events will be hosted as well. Check with your YMCA center or visit ymcamontgomery.org for more details.
Classes
Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes 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 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org to register or for more info. Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about
s
t
or isit
st
st ea n34)
h,
0lle, y.
rk s05
om
75
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar
to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more info or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980.
February2017 also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Maternity Area Tour Baptist Health’s Maternity Area Tour is for parents not attending Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp. Tour is offered on select Saturdays of each month and is complimentary. Tour is for adults only. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL.
with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www. Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will
76
Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@jackson.org.
car mo tee Can
Bap The and sta tale Ple
Bap Vol Bap Hos ma roo visi For
Bap Bap cen slee phy the Bap Pra
Jac Jac par lim to p pro trai For
•
Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 2734445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. Slow Flow Yoga Classes are held at Old Alabama Town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to Molton South Building. Enter through the Rose House, located on Columbus St. between N. Hull and Decatur. Parking is available along Decatur and N. Hull. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days). Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet. yoga@icloud.com.
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. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a
www.montgomeryparents.com
•
7
irth
ase
r
ed. @
ellon of r d. p For sit
h)
ry
st 7
rs
t 3-
o, et.
Support Groups
Jackson Hospital Animal Therapy Program Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call Monica Russell at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and din-
Adoption Support
Cancer Support
American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 for more info. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis.
• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode
first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,
Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16
waiting lists start early...sign up soon!... Waitingwww.riverviewcamp.com! lists start early...sign up soon!...
Dr. Larry & Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors • Donna Bares,Asst. Director
www.riverviewcamp.com
Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 3 hr drive. 1
Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International
D RAMA
om
Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more info, call (334) 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and (334) 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital.
AND
ies afe a
River Region Association of Doulas Doulas Traci Weafer, Rebekah Hawkins and Christina Clark provide prenatal counseling, labor and postpartum doula services, breastfeeding education, events and support groups. Contact rradoulas@gmail.com or visit rradoulas.weebly.com or https://www.facebook. com/RRADoulas/.
Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@ yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.
C RAFTS • C HORUS
d ull.
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.
Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the lifelong adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Audrey Derevenko at (205) 943-5343 or e-mail adereven@childrensaid.org.
AND
me
Baptist Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977.
ner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org.
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
n-
Baptist Hospice Volunteers There are many ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team.
Jackson Hospital Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital information desk volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. Call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/patients_ volunteers.html.
0000067769-01
nt rs
car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more info, or to volunteer, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.
FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF
or ucer
• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T O WER • OUTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING • 77
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.
Divorce Support
DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Join us for thirteen weeks of guidance and purpose as you move forward with life after divorce. For more info, call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org. Divorce Care for Kids meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Children of divorce or separation find hope, help, and healing. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com.
Gambling Support
Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery.
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420
Grief Support
Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children ages 7-11 who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 272-8622 for more info. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard
78
February2017 and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. GriefShare, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups
Car tive 4th Cen 279 Hea We
Cel to h aw We hop is le call
Ch a1 add self am our God p.m fice add
Dia Noo Hos est dia wor dia clin dia Cal jack
that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www. honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group.
Homeschool Support
ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com
Illness Support
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 272-8622.
www.montgomeryparents.com
7
at ys
les
ly to ed
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. Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. Meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. You will experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” is led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. 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. Diabetes Support Group Noon-1 p.m. and 4-5 p.m., fourth Thursdays, Jackson Hospital Park Place Building Suite 302. Are you interested in learning how to better manage your Type 2 diabetes? Would you like support from others as you work to control your diabetes? Sponsored by inpatient diabetes educator Michelle Carothers, this group offers clinical information, advice and tips to make living with diabetes easier for you and your family. Register today! Call (334) 293-8574 or e-mail michelle.carothers@ jackson.org.
Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page.
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.
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.
Parent Support
NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (2712280) for details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742.
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 info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org.
D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery CityCounty Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey
o ge faoth
g
w.
-
r ngng
n), wy, m.
r
e
om
79
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Support Groups together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https:// sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/ MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail.com or visit http://vfcmops.weebly. 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. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.
Single Parents Support
God Will Make a Way, Frazer UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Learn to follow God’s principles to thrive relationally, emotionally, and spiritually in 12 key areas of life and use God’s wisdom to cope with your most difficult problems. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@ frazerumc.org for more info. Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and
Montgomery Parents I February 2017
80
empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many familyoriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc. org.
Special Needs Support
Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2016 pageant date TBA. Visit www. alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@ gmail.com for more info. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info, e-mail LyraStephens@yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate, Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more info, e-mail Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.
Teens/Families Support
Alienated Grandparents Anonymous meets third Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m in room 3104 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. For more info, call 272-8622 Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 2704100 for information about current classes. 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.
Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com. www.montgomeryparents.com
I
By Wi ‘I C he Th thi the Co po
A Page in a Book
h
st fo, y s/
Books with Room to Grow
zer w-
Having big goals is an important part of every child’s imaginative vista. While
c.
there are ways that kids can explore their current territory and prepare to grow.
children have natural age-related boundaries, with patience and creativity, Inspiration found in every day moments can help kids build their confidence as they grow into their element and closer to their goals. The following titles each celebrate positive thinking and the small steps that help move children upward
ww.
and outward as their boundaries expand.
y t or
Happy Dreamer
0
By Peter H. Reynolds (Orchard / Scholastic) Unhindered by the whatever setting he’s in, a young boy takes flight as he navigates the various paths daydreams can follow. Even though the world sometimes tells him to sit still or be quiet, his ability to imagine lets him exceed every day confinements. From sounds and light to other sensory explorations, the boy’s daydreams take him through a vibrant landscape of his own making. Touching on the power of imagination to exceed our physical limits, this title is an uplifting paean to daydreams and their ability to transport us. From the creator of ‘Ish’ and ‘The Dot’, Reynolds’ newest entry brings the lively benefits expanded thinking to every child’s bookshelf.
ed. sit
e@
p
d
ts e
fo,
a on
m. en, etc.
ory is.
d ial 2
nisley )
om
I Can Be Anything
By Jerry Spinelli, Illustrated by Jimmy Liao (Little Brown / Hachette) With the unbounded exuberance that defines a child’s perspective of grown-up life, ‘I Can Be Anything’ follows a lively little boy as he muses about all the things that he can be when he is older. He could be a ‘dandelion blower’ or ‘puppy-dog holder. The important jobs of ‘gift unwrapper’ and ‘snowball smoother’ are also tempting to this young man as he looks at his future. The beauty of this career search is that all the fabulous jobs the boy ponders are occupations that are ideally suited for a child. Colorful edge-to-edge illustrations paint a lively picture of a future where anything is possible for the forward-thinking child.
Bloom
By Deborah Diesen, Illustrated by Mary Lunquist (Farrar Straus Giroux / Macmillan) A mother and daughter gently plant bulbs in the earth and patiently pass time waiting for them to bloom. Over the following months they enjoy celebrations, daily adventures, trips and even moments of sadness. But throughout the days, their bulbs are silently growing slender stems towards the sun, dreaming of the day they will break the surface and bloom. With opening end papers that feature delicately illustrated tulip, hyacinth and daffodil bulbs and closing pages that show the fully bloomed flowers, this story offers a beautiful analogy of how the smallest seed of inspiration can eventually grow into fully bloomed reality. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.
81
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Business Card Directory
Ad
Ag
Ala
Ala
Ala
AL
Ala Ar
AS
AS
AU
Ba
Ba
Be
Bra
Ca
Ca
Ce
Ch
Ch
Ch
Ch
De
Dr
Dy
E& Montgomery Parents I February 2017
82
www.montgomeryparents.com
om
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.
Eastern Oaks Church, 4
New Park, 47
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 79
OB/GYN Associates of Montgomery, 7
Evangel Christian Academy, 21
OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 41
Family Guidance Center, 71
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 51
Adventure Sports II, 75
First UMC, Prattville, 50
Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 63
Agape of Central Alabama, 53
Frazer Memorial UMC, 18, 53
Pet Palace Hotels, 32
Alabama Christian Academy, 29
Health Services, Inc., 67
Prattville Spring Arts & Crafts Show, 80
Alabama Dance Theater, 59
Herron Dermatology & Laser, 55
Prattville YMCA, 66
Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 33
Professional Pediatrics, 12
AL School of Math & Science, 15
Hooper Academy, 28
Pump It Up Party, 50
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 56
Hudson Huffman, 82
Riverview Camp for Girls, 77
Armory Athletics, 37
Interscapes, Inc., 73
Rockin’ Jump, 60
ASKIN/Synergy House, 82
KLynn Ice Skating, 40
Rolling Video Games of AL, 67
ASU Middle School Band Camp, 19
Kids Carousel, 27
AUM Dixie Baseball, 0
Kingry Orthodontics, 59
Baptist Health, 13
Kumon, 41
Barb’s on Mulberry, 63
Learning Tree Child Care, 64
Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 43
Legacy Early Learning Center, 34
Bradford Health Services, 57
Lori Mercer Photography, 65
Camp ASCCA, 34
Macon East Academy, 35
Camp Walkabout, 69
Mathnasium, 25
Cellar Door Wine Club, 82
Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 18
Chapman Orthodontics, 28
Montessori @ Mulberry, 17
Children’s Clothing Exchange, 2
Montgomery Catholic Schools, 9
Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 14
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 69
Churchill Academy, 36
Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 68
Dentistry for Children, 40
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 49
Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 45
Mrs. Sandy’s House, 82
Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 79
My Kids Attic Consignment Sale, 19
E & S Hobbies, 82
My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 31
Saint James School, 1 Shade Tree Riding Stables, 43 Shane’s Rib Shack, 23 Spacewalker, The, 21 Spotless Cleaning Services, 11 Success Unlimited Academy, 22 Sweet Kiss Fertility, 82 Sylvan Learning Center, 27
83
Taylor Road Baptist Church, 75 The Listening Place, 20 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover Trinity Presbyterian School, Inside Back Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 45 United Gymstars & Cheer, 23 Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 66 Vaughn Road Preschool, 26 You and Me Boutique, 8 www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Monster Trucks
The Founder
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Monster Trucks PG for action, peril, brief scary images, and some rude humor. The idea of literally portraying a monster truck is brought to life through smooth CGI animation and some childlike creativity in this aptly titled movie. When Mr. Tenneson (Rob Lowe), a greedy oil tycoon (the only flavor found in movies), insists on drilling into a high-pressure water vein that is suspected of harboring ancient life, a rather surprisingly large specimen shoots out of the pipe. Destroying the rig, it manages to get away -- but not before Tenneson and his geologist-partner, Jim Dowd (Thomas Lennon), get a glimpse of it. Worried their well will be shut down if it’s in danger of destroying a newfound creature’s habitat, the oil executives order their strongmen, headed up by Burke (Holt McCallany), to begin the chase with the goal of destroying the evidence. Not likely to last long on the lamb, the creature from the deep lagoon makes its way to a junkyard where it meets Tripp (Lucas Till). It’s late at night and the young man is busy working on his dream of fixing up an old truck and turning it into a classic monster. However, his efforts are interrupted when the “thing” slinks into the shop and is soon followed by the men pursuing it. A classic example of the boy-and-his-dog formula, it’s not long before Tripp is bonding with the blob, which he eventually names Creech. It turns out his new pet thrives on any petroleum product he can get his tentacles on. And when Creech slithers into the chassis of the grease monkey’s old truck, the teen is delighted to discover that his glow-in-the-dark appendages can make the wheels turn at highway speeds. Seriously, it may sound crazy, but the eight-year-olds in the audience will likely get more than revved up watching this motorized adventure. And to ensure the girls are engaged in the story too, the screenwriters toss in a mildly romantic distraction in the form of a brainy biologist named Meredith. Yes, these characters have brains and make a refreshing combo in a kids’ movie that demonstrates how both genders can contribute to saving the day without having to demean each other. Sadly, that’s not the case for the image of Big Oil. As usual, the oil developers are the real slimy monsters in this story -- a rather odd irony considering the purpose of this film is to get youngsters excited about trucks that drink gasoline like James Bond chugs martinis. Thankfully content is mainly limited to the peril involved in keeping Creech out of Tenneson’s reach. Little ones may be concerned for the creature’s fate but there is little doubt he will make his way to a happy ending. Perhaps a little more problematic for some audience members will be the discovery that Tripp’s estranged father (Rob Lowe) is dealing with an obvious alcohol problem.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: B Profanity: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated The Founder PG-13 for brief strong language. What’s in a name? For Ray Kroc (played by Michael Keaton), the value of the right moniker might be worth selling your soul for! He knows for sure his surname isn’t suitable as a business title. Yet McDonald’s... now that one has potential. As a longtime salesman, Ray has flogged almost everything you can think of, but without many results. His patient wife (Laura Dern) puts up with his mad schemes, although she is growing tired of his long absences from home. When he returns to Illinois all abuzz about a visit to California, she tries to be supportive of his latest get-rich-quick opportunity. After meeting Dick and Mac McDonald (Nick Offerman and John Carroll Lynch) in San Bernardino, Ray believes the brothers’ unique approach to making and selling hamburgers could revolutionize the industry. Of course, he wants to be part of their story. Finagling a deal to become the McDonald brothers’ first franchise manager, Ray takes their model to the other side of the country where he uses his sales experience to convince others to buy into the concept. Although things get off to a slow start, they do eventually get cooking. And as his achievements grow, so does Ray’s ego. Soon he is taking credit for ideas that aren’t his own and overstepping the limits of his contract with Dick and Mac. As legal issues ensue, Ray’s appetite for success becomes so ravenous that he is willing to devour anyone or anything that stands in his way. While the corrupting power of greed is not a new theme in Hollywood movies, this one has the virtue of being based on a true story. Where the script fails however is in presenting a gradual chain of events showing Ray’s evolving motives. Instead, his change-of-face feels abrupt, and in turn makes this account seem too contrived to be real. Numerous profanities, a sexual expletive and finger gesture, along with frequent drinking and marital unfaithfulness are other reasons why this film may be a disappointment for family viewers. Today, the name McDonald’s is almost synonymous with the American Dream. This portrayal of the little men who conceived it, and the man who helped it grow into a global giant likely won’t encourage sympathy for either the fast food chain or free enterprise. Yet whether you love or hate the Golden Arches, or capitalism for that matter, the real guilty partner here is the human tendency to put fame and fortune above integrity and fairness. And that’s a reminder worth heeding regardless of what name we may want to give to selfish desires.
What Parents need to know about Monster Trucks... Violence: Frequent car/truck chases are depicted and result in crashes, rollovers, plunging down cliffs, crushing things and extensive property damage. Explosions are portrayed. Creatures are treated cruelly, shot with tranquilizer darts and threatened with poison and death. A mysterious monster makes scary noises and consumes petroleum products. Characters are frequently in peril and occasionally physically threated. Reckless driving and stunts are depicted. Sexual Content: A teen couple holds hands and camps out together over night – no sexual relations are implied. A woman kisses her boyfriend and it is assumed they live together. A character vomits. A boy’s low-riding pants reveal his butt crack. Profanity: Terms of deity are used as expletives. Alcohol / Drug Use: A man drinks at home after work, and it is implied that he is an alcoholic. An animal consumes a substance that makes him behave as though he is intoxicated. Montgomery Parents I February 2017
What Parents need to know about The Founder... Violence: A character works deals to his advantage, as well as breaks contracts and word-of-mouth agreements. Characters argue, and one man angrily hits his desk and car. Stress causes health issues. Teens loiter and litter outside a drive-in. Sexual Content: A married character flirts shamelessly with another man’s wife. Characters use a urinal in a bathroom (no detail shown). Teens kiss. A married couple are shown in bed together. Language: A sexual expletive is heard and a sexual finger gesture is shown. The script includes mild and moderate profanity, terms of deity and scatological slang. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character continuously turns to alcohol for solace or encouragement. Characters drink in social settings. Smoking is shown. 84
www.montgomeryparents.com
Families that choose Montgomery Academy for their child value a strong educational foundation. A partnership with parents, small class sizes, and caring teachers combine to make a school family where children are known and understood. It is in this unique community that a culture of expectation grows. Join us.
Ask about financial aid options that make an MA education a possibility.
Contact Susannah Cleveland Director of Admissions admissions@montgomeryacademy.org
334.272.8210 montgomeryacademy.org The Academy admits students of every color, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, or other legally protected status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
The Right Start.