Put some brush & floss in your life today!
Children who see a dentist in their first year have dental costs that are 40% lower than those who wait until after one year of age. Drinking fluoridated water is the most efficient way to prevent one of the most common childhood diseases, dental decay.
An estimated 51 million school hours are lost each year due to dental related illness. Bacteria that causes cavities can be passed to children by simple routine activities like sharing spoons, cups or straws, testing food temperatures and licking pacifiers.
ORAL HEALTH OFFICE Promoting Smiles Across a Lifetime
It’s a
G REAT DAYat ! Mark Your Calendars! SA IN T JA M E S SCHOOL IN VITE S PROSPECTIVE STU DEN TS A ND PA R EN TS TO THE SE U PCOMING EVEN TS
Welcome Wednesdays AT STJ
Lunch Tours AT STJ Let us show you around! Please join us for a mid-day tour (11am-1pm) in February. We know time away from your 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 is get to know us month! Please feel free to schedule an individual tour of Saint James with our Admissions department at any time. We would love to have you visit during the school day! In addition, we are inviting parents and children who are interested in Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten at STJ in Fall 2015 to our Welcome Wednesdays. The children will enjoy a classroom activity and play with new friends while the parents take a brief tour of our pre-school and kindergarten.
February 17 February 18 February 19
9:30am Registration in the Admissions Office in Leu Elementary 9:40–10:00am Enrichment Classroom Activity February 4–Science Lab Activities with Mrs. Parquette February 18–Technology Time with Mrs. Waggoner 10:00am Students enjoy refreshments and arts & crafts with our STJ Student Ambassadors while the parents tour our Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten classes
For students entering Grades 1-5 Fall 2015 For students entering Grades 6-8 Fall 2015 For students entering Grades 9-12 Fall 2015
Please reserve your lunch tour by contacting Walton Skelley at wskelley@stjweb.org or 334.273.2992. All lunch tour reservations must be made by February 13, 2015.
Admissions Testing AT STJ
Reservations are required. Please call Walton Skelley at 334.273.2992 or email admissions@stjweb.org three school days before the Wednesday you would like to attend.
Take advantage of our Saturday testing options for Fall 2015 rising 1st through 12th grade students. Call 334.273.2992 for complete testing and registration details. Testing for Grades 1–12 Saturday, March 7 (student must be registered for testing by February 20, 2015) Saturday, May 2 (student must be registered for testing by April 17, 2015)
Saint James School for Pre-K3 through 12th grade admissions
334.273.2992
Building a Legacy of Leaders Since 1955 s t j w e b . o r g English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, color, 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.
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20 Heart Screenings on $
Love Your Heart Day at Baptist.
Wouldn’t now be a good time to learn if your heart is happy and healthy? For one day only on February 28th, Baptist South is offering heart screenings for only $20. We’ll test your cholesterol, blood pressure and resting EKG, and assess your risk for heart trouble. It’s all part of Baptist’s Love Your Heart Day, and includes a free light breakfast after your tests. So join us February 28th for your heart screening. And show your heart just how much you love it.
Love Your Heart Day February 28th Call 273.4304 to register BaptistLoveYourHeart.com Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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February2015
Volume 20 Number 2
56 Columns
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6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
7 Ways to Help When Networking 101 for Baby Arrives New Moms Offer relief to a new family with these easy, yet creative, ideas.
Find out how to stay connected, not become isolated, after baby.
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen
38 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee
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42 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Andre L. Harrison
48 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith
50 Centsibly Southern Chic
New & Expectant Parents Guide
Show Your Love
Where to go in the River Region for “all things baby!”
The importance of affection in marriage, including simple ways to rekindle romantic feelings.
On The Cover Cooper Tate Lemmond was born November 24, 2014 to Chuck and Anna Lemmond of Tallassee, AL. He has a big brother, Thomas (7), and big sister, Kennedy (4), who adore him immensely and can’t wait for him to get big enough to play with them! Odds are he’ll love all kinds of balls, just like his brother!
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Laura Handey
70 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 74 Calendar/Support Groups 87 Advertiser Directory 88 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Editor’sNote I remember vividly the early weeks after bringing our first born home from the hospital. What I had daydreamed would be a beautiful, Hallmark series of precious moments quickly became exhausting, confusing, and even depressing, as we adjusted our whole lives around this new little person. My hormones were raging (bringing me to tears several times a day), I was breast feeding every 2-3 hours, I was stuck in the house day after day, and I was sleep deprived. I actually remember sitting on our back porch telling Jason how I wished we could take Will back to the hospital. No, it wasn’t my proudest moment, but I eventually adjusted to being a mom and found true joy in my role. Babies and children are a true blessing and they make our lives so rich, but boy, becoming a new parent was much harder than I had anticipated! I guess you could say I learned what not to do after the first baby, and prepared better for my second go around. For starters, I don’t do well without adequate sleep. Some people can tolerate it, but it makes me crazy. So, I pumped more bottles and Jason helped with more nighttime feedings. Also, I can not stay in the house all day every day. I get cabin fever! Even if it was only to the post office, I started getting out of the house each day at some point. Being a stay at home mom, I also quickly realized I needed connection with other adults, so I joined a weekly women’s Bible study and a local gym. That way I could have some fellowship with friends and a break from my kids all at the same time. These changes didn’t make things perfect, but they sure were helpful. Being a mom is a rewarding and amazing part of my life, but I still needed to feel like a woman, wife and friend. I think we all do! It’s with these difficult adjustments in mind that we bring you our 2015 Baby Issue. First, be sure to read Networking 101 for New Moms where you’ll be encouraged to stay connected and avoid isolation after you welcome baby. (I wish I had read this article myself 17 years ago.) We’ve also included our New & Expectant Parents Guide, a local resource for all things BABY! From clothing and nursery decor to OB/GYNs and parent support groups, you’ll see all the River Region has to offer your growing family. If you are past child-bearing years, don’t think we’ve forgotten you. While many of us aren’t having babies anymore, we all know couples who are...and we can help. Sara Marchessault’s article, 7 Ways to Help When Baby Arrives, discusses creative ideas to support new moms and dads beyond providing a casserole (though that will never go out of style)! Finally, with Valentine’s Day upon us and all this talk of babies and extreme life changes, it only seems fitting to include an article on the importance of affection in marriage. It’s an area that can become more challenging with the addition of children to the home, but one we can work on with intentionality. Check out Show Your Love, where Christa Melnyk Hines offers simple, yet profound, ways to keep the fires lit with your spouse. Jason and I have always tried to remember that our kids will only be with us for a short time, but we will be together for a lifetime. So make time to date each other throughout your child-rearing years, have long talks and be affectionate, take as many vacations alone together as you can! I promise it will pay off in big ways for you and your spouse, and you will give your children the greatest gift of all...seeing their parents happily married and still deeply in love.
DeAnne
deanne@montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
Montgomery Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Montgomery Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen Laura Handey Andre L. Harrison Christa Melnyk Hines Malissa Hoy, M.D. Sara Marchessault John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com
Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Savannah Bowden Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Member
Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2014 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
The “Ticket” System Q: I’ve been trying for two months with little to no success to get your “ticket” system to work on my 4-year-old daughter. The target behaviors are ignoring me when I tell her to do something and blatantly refusing to do what I tell her to do. She has three tickets a day. When she loses one, she has to sit in a chair for 15 minutes, and if she loses all three before the day is done, she spends the rest of it in her room. One problem is that she waits until the end of the day to lose all of her tickets, meaning that she really doesn’t spend any “punishment” time in her room because it’s time for bed anyway. But the biggest problem is that losing a ticket and sitting in time-out doesn’t seem to faze her at all. Any ideas? A: I disagree. Losing a ticket obviously fazes her. Otherwise, she would not be cleverly waiting until the end of the day to lose most of her tickets. That tells me that she not only doesn’t want to sit in the timeout chair but also doesn’t want to spend any significant amount of time in her room.
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
Before we go any further, I should explain the “ticket” system to those readers who are a tad late to the game. First, several (no more than three) misbehaviors are clearly spelled out on a “target behavior list” that’s affixed to the refrigerator door. Second, three to five “tickets” are cut from construction paper and put up on the refrigerator, next to the misbehavior list, using a magnetic clip. When a targeted misbehavior occurs, the parent closest to the scene of the crime removes one of that day’s tickets from the clip. Each time the child in question loses a ticket, she must sit in time out for a certain length of time. When all the day’s allotment of tickets is gone, the child spends the rest of the day in her room, which has been stripped of most of its “entertainment value,” and goes to bed at least one hour early. Over the years since I developed it, lots and lots of parents have told me that the ticket system has helped them solve many a discipline problem. It seems to work best with children 3 through 12. I generally do not recommend its use with a
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teenager. Also, as I have said before in this column and in several of my books (most notably, The Well-Behaved Child: Discipline That REALLY Works!), if the parents’ attitude is not proper, no discipline method is going to work for long. An improper attitude includes impatience, frustration, anger, anxiety, and any other manifestation of stress. Whatever the method, discipline should be delivered dispassionately. If there’s emotional “pressure” behind it, the method in question is very likely to fail. Circling back to your question, the fact that you don’t feel you’ve made significant headway in two months with your daughter leads me to believe that your delivery is the problem. Granted, some kids are more stubborn than others, but a determined but calm enforcement style will bring even the most strong-willed child into line in a relatively short period of time. One more thing: the fact that a child acts unfazed by a consequence does not mean it’s not having any effect. Children are clever, and acting like being thrown into the proverbial briar patch is a vacation is one form their cleverness sometimes takes. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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Macon East Academy is an independent, college preparatory school focused on excellence in academics, athletics, and achievement. Our accelerated curriculum is complemented by offerings in performing and visual arts, music, foreign language, and over 20 interscholastic sports, as well as a 1:1 Apple iPad program for students in grades 1 - 12. At Macon East, our students are held to high standards in all areas of student life, and Christian values are reinforced throughout all school programs. Small class sizes and a safe, nurturing environment give every student the opportunity to excel. Macon East is more than a school; we are a family. Schedule a campus tour today, and find out why Macon East is the right school for your student.
Macon East Academy
15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566
Located 7 miles east of Chantilly Parkway, just minutes from Montgomery 9
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Christian Comedian Tim Hawkins Live
March 12 @ 7 p.m. Vaughn Forest Church Ticket prices begin at $20. Visit https://timhawkins.brushfireapp.com/ events/427433 or call (888) 780-1116.
Local Mardi Gras Celebrations
Depot Players Present Pinkalicous the Musical
Tuesday, February 17 @ NOON only Adapted from one of the most beloved contemporary children’s classics, Pinkalicious the Musical tells the story of a headstrong little girl who loves the color pink so much that she can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor’s office with Pinkatitis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased through wetumpkadepot. com or by calling the box office at (334) 868-1440. The Wetumpka Depot Theatre is located at 300 S. Main Street.
Junior League Montgomery Mardi Gras 10K & 5K February 7 @ 8 a.m. Ready. Set. Geaux! This special event will feature a 10K course down Ray Thorington Road, including a Wheelchair/Adaptive Division, as well as a 5K option. The event is family friendly including a visit from The Big Green Bus for the children. 10K Entry Fee is $35 on or before February 4; late registration February 5-7 is $40; start time – 8 a.m. (Adaptive/Wheelchair Division starts at 7:55 a.m.) 5K Entry Fee is $30 on or before February 4; late registration February 5-7 is $35; start time – 8:05 a.m. For more details and registration info, visit www.jlmontgomery.org. You may also call (334) 288-8816 or e-mail information@jlmontgomery.org. Millbrook Revelers Parade & Festival February 7 @ 9 a.m. Village Green Park in Millbrook. More than 60 vendors from all over the South will offer lots of different food and fun for everyone. The parade starts at NOON sharp. Anyone can enter the parade. Just visit www.millbrookrevelers. org for entry information. Wetumpka Mardi Gras Parade/ Festival February 14 @ 9 a.m. Festival begins at 9 a.m. in Gold Star Park. Parade begins at 1 p.m. For info, call (334) 424-2867 or (334) 558-5299.
MPAC Events
Tickets are already on sale for the following shows at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Call 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org. Agape of Central Alabama Presents MICHAEL OHER February 24 @ 7:30 p.m. Michael Oher came from a broken home and his estranged father was murdered while Oher was in high school. Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy became Oher’s legal guardians and he developed into a college football star and a top NFL draft pick. Oher’s story was told in Michael Lewis’s book The Blind Side and the Sandra Bullock film of the same name. Tickets begin at $27.
Casting Crowns
Get Your Tickets Now For 2015 SLE Rodeo
April 16 * 7 p.m.; doors open 6 p.m. Frazer UMC’s Wesley Hall Grammy and Dove Award-winning Christian contemporary music artists. Tickets available online through premierproductions.com or in the Frazer Bookstore. Call (334)262-8622 or e-mail butch@frazerumc.org.
The 58th Annual Southeastern Livestock Exposition Rodeo will be held March 19-21 at Garrett Coliseum. All adult ticket prices will increase on the day of the performance so purchase your tickets in advance! Visit http://www.slerodeo.com/. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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Disney Live: Pirates and Princess Adventure March 18 @ 1 and 5 p.m. Grab your tiaras and doubloons and join us for Disney Junior Live On Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure. Mickey and Minnie are taking their seats too at this never-beforeseen live show featuring your favorite characters from Disney Junior’s hit series, Sofia the First, along with Jake and the Never Land Pirates. Tickets begin at $17. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Cinderella
Back by popular demand, the Alabama Dance Theatre will present Cinderella February 27-March 1 at the Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Experience the magic of the royal ball, a beautiful princess, a pumpkin carriage, an enchanted Fairy Godmother, and one lost slipper. This beloved tale of “rags to riches� is perfect for the entire family. Performances are Friday, February 27, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, February 28, at 2:30 p.m.; and Sunday, March 1, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale February 9 and range in price from $15 to $30. Children 12 and under are $15. Reserved and general admission tickets are available by visiting www. alabamadancetheatre.com. For more information, call (334) 241-2800. **After the matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday, children are invited onstage to meet Cinderella and other characters at an additional charge of $10 per child (costumes welcome).**
Saturdays, February 14 AND 21 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (Both Saturdays) The Miracle Field (Field 8) located at the Ed Thompson Complex on Ray Thorington Road (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 Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Deaf, Blind, and Brain Injury, just to name a few. REGISTRATION FEE: $30 (covers uniform and trophy) PLEASE NOTE!! While there is a registration fee, many scholarships ARE available! If you or someone you know would like to come out and be a part of this awesome program, please come to the registration and fill out a Volunteer Application and join the fun! Coaches and Buddies will be present on the days of registration! If you have any questions or need any other info, e-mail: montgomerymiracleleague@gmail.com.
Alabama Nature Center Critter Crawl
February 14 beginning @ 9 a.m. Grab your running shoes and hit the trails for the Fifth Annual Alabama Nature Center Critter Crawl! This year, the Critter Crawl will feature a 5K and 10K Trail Runs beginning at 9 a.m. There will be an additional 1-mile race beginning at 10 a.m. In addition to the races, there is a costume contest. Dress your best and run as an Alabama critter! There will be prizes for the favorite costume. We will have music and food for everyone, plus door prizes and lots of room for kids to play. Both races start and finish at the ANC pavilion. Visit www.alabamawildlife.org or call 334285-4550 for more details and map.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
Your Child’s Atopic Dermatitis Every year around this time we break out the bottles of lotion for my son. His skin always seems to get dry, itchy, and splotchy this time of year. He has atopic dermatitis or eczema and we do our best to try and keep it from flaring up, but many times it flares up no matter how well we are caring for it. Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory disorder of the skin that causes it to be red and itchy and can progress to swelling and cracking of the skin with crusting. It tends to focus on the elbow and knee creases, neck, face and scalp for children. Itching is also a significant part of atopic dermatitis. Some children tend to itch more than other children and may need medicine to help with the itching. Many people with atopic dermatitis can have times that their skin looks and feels great, but it can flare up unexpectedly at any time. Knowing how to handle these flare ups is important but also taking measures to try and prevent them is just as important. Preventing flare ups can be tricky depending on what triggers may cause a flare. Many irritants surround us daily and different people
can have different triggers. The dry winter air this time of year can also contribute to a flare. Paying close attention to exposures around the time of a flare can help you determine what a trigger may be so that maybe it can be avoided in the future. The first defense for prevention is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. A good moisturizing lotion should be used at least twice a day. Choosing which lotion can be overwhelming since there are so many to choose from at the stores. For a mild case of eczema, a fragrance free lotion will likely work well. However, if you have severe eczema with cracked skin then choosing something that is fragrance free and thick like an ointment will work better. The lower water content and more Vaseline like texture of the ointment tends to stay in place longer and doesn’t sting as much on dry cracked skin. While moisturizing won’t prevent all flare ups it is your best line of prevention and helps to soothe itchy skin between flare ups. When a flare up occurs, a steroid cream can help to get things back under
control. Over the counter hydrocortisone cream works well for most people and should be used twice a day along with the lotion until the flare is back under control. Some flare ups that don’t respond to hydrocortisone cream may need a stronger steroid and your physician can prescribe one for you. Sometimes a flare up gets an underlying infection that needs further treatment with an antibiotic. If your flare up is severe and not responding to your current treatment, or seems much worse than normal flare ups, have your physician examine it to see if further medication would help clear it up. Proper treatment and prevention measures can help atopic dermatitis be more bearable for those affected.
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 one son.
Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy
OFFICE (334) 271-5959 NURSE LINE (334) 272-6667
Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday Montgomery Parents I February 2015
8:00 am - Evening Appts. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 12
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Heart Month Each month of the year provides us with unique opportunities for learning. February is a favorite—a month with lots of heart. It offers a fantastic array of teachable moments that can be of great life-long value to children and adults alike. It is a month filled with significant historical markers and sprinkled with love. The name February was derived from the Latin term februum – which means purification. It came from the Roman purification ritual that was held on the full moon (February 15) of the old Roman lunar calendar. We celebrate our presidents (Abraham Lincoln’s birthday is February 12, George Washington’s birthday is February 22) with President’s Day, the third Monday.
This is a great time to add names of presidents to the family’s study guide. It is African American History Month in the U.S., the United Kingdom and Canada. The celebration was initiated in 1926 when historian Carter Woodson and the Association for Negro Life and History proclaimed the second week in February to be Negro History Week. The event was expanded to Black History Month in 1976 when it was officially recognized by the government. It is now known as African American History Month. Explore with your children the video and articles about African Americans who helped to build our nation at www. africanamericanhistorymonth.gov. February events are also accented with fun. Groundhog Day is celebrated on February 2. It is a day where we have a little fun with unscientific predictions as we look hopefully towards an early spring. The tender side of all of us comes to the forefront on February 14. St. Valentine’s Day began as a Christian church celebration of one or more saints named Valentinus. The day was associated with
love through the writings of Geoffrey Chaucer during the Middle Ages. In the 18th century English friends began to present flowers and candies to each other. It was even lauded by William Shakespeare in the fourth act of Hamlet.
To-morrow is Saint Valentine’s day, All in the morning betime, And I a maid at your window, To be your Valentine. There is history and there are opportunities for learning within each day of the year! Let’s take advantage of these. What a wonderful way to provide your children with a great context for history while at the same time spark their curiosity and inspire a life of learning. 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.
Alabama Dance Theatre presents
Friday, February 27, 7:30 pm Saturday, February 28, 2:30 pm & Sunday, March 1, 2:30 pm Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts
Tickets: alabamadancetheatre.com • Information: 334.241.2590 SPONSORS
LOREE & OWEN ARONOV This performance is made possible by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.
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WE’LL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF J U S T WA I T A N D S E E ! K4 and K5 ASSESSMENTS FEBRUARY 5-6, 2015
VISIT OUR CAMPUS AND SEE WHY WE ARE MONTGOMERY’S FOREMOST EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION, PROVIDING THE HIGHEST QUALITY COLLEGE-PREPARATORY EDUCATION, WHILE INTEGRATING THE BIBLICAL
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WORLD AND LIFE VIEW. EXTRAORDINARY THINGS ARE HAPPENING AT TRINITY. JUST WAIT AND SEE...WE’LL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF!
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA • 334.213.2100 15 www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
A Montgomery County Schools
Trinity’s EnviroBowl Team Wins Regional Contest
UAB Professor Speaks To Sidney Lanier Students
Dr. Robert J. Cerfolio, University of Alabama Birmingham professor and chief of thoracic surgery, spoke to students at Sidney Lanier High School recently. Cerfolio and Lanier Principal Dr. Antonio Williams addressed the students to kick off a partnership between UAB and Lanier to help students who are interested in medical careers. The partnership will include the use of technology to provide supplemental materials for science courses and mentors for students. Cerfolio spent the rest of the day at the school meeting teachers and students and touring the academic and athletic facilities.
The Trinity EnviroBowl Team placed first in the regional competition in January at AUM. The students will compete in the state playoffs March 13 at the McWane Center in Birmingham. Team members are Jackson Scott (captain), Bray Jones, Dawson Oliver, Jon Green and Cole Mitchell. EnviroBowl is a double-elimination, question and answer competition played between two high school teams consisting of four students each. The questions are designed to test the students’ knowledge of the environment and related fields, such as forestry, wildlife, chemistry, waste management, ecology, geology and pollution. Shown are Jon Green, Dawson Oliver, Jackson Scott, Bray Jones and Cole Mitchell.
Floyd Cheerleaders Chosen for Citrus Bowl Pregame
The following Floyd Middle Magnet cheerleaders were awarded the opportunity to participate in the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl Pregame show in Orlando January 1: Kabrya Beard, Channing Coleman, JaDavia Erkins, Kaiya Jenkins, Vanessa Millar, Jamie Monette, Kamryn Sutton and Aubrie Wells.
Saint James School Welcomes New Coach
Seventh-Grader Wins Eastwood Geography Bee
Seventh-grader Marilee Babington won Eastwood Christian School’s annual geography bee. She now has the opportunity to take a written test supplied by National Geographic to qualify for the state-level geography bee which will take place in April at Samford University. Eighth-graders Gracie Kocher and Adelaide Howard came in second and third place, respectively. Other participants in the geography bee were Ben Johnson, Michael Parker, Virginia Puckett, Charles Schaupp, Millie Hodge, Foster Ingram and Chad Conoly. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
Tommy Goodson joined the coaching staff of Saint James School this January. Goodson will be the quarterback coach for the high school football team, serve as assistant for the high school baseball team, and work as an elementary physical education teacher. “Coach Goodson comes to Saint James with a wealth of experience in coaching teenagers as well as teaching young students,” said Melba Richardson, Saint James Head of School. “He was an integral factor in the recent successes of the Prattville High School football program and has an outstanding record as head baseball coach. What a great compliment Coach Goodson will be to our exceptional roster of coaches.” Goodson spent 25 years teaching and coaching in the public school system in the River Region, including Floyd Middle School, Jeff Davis High School, Prattville High School, Halcyon Elementary and Dannelly Elementary. During Goodson’s nine years at Prattville High School, the Lions football team won four state class 6A championships, and were runners-up twice, with a record of 113-13. Goodson’s baseball teams won 181 games and advanced to the state playoffs all six seasons he was head coach. His overall career record as a high school baseball coach is 307-102. He has never had a losing baseball season. “We are really looking forward to Tommy joining our staff this year,” said STJ Athletic Director Jerry Browning. “His record speaks for itself and his demeanor with younger students is inspiring.” 16
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ACA Donates to AGAPE During Christmas Season As an integral part of Alabama Christian Academy’s annual Christmas traditions, students in K4-fifth grade were encouraged to bring in a donation to AGAPE of Central Alabama during the month of December. To decorate the school’s Christmas tree in the main lobby, students who donated to the AGAPE service project created an ornament. ACA’s students were proud to be able to provide funds to provide the gifts purchased for a 4- and 5-year-old pair of siblings. Students were able to provide dolls, bikes, puzzles and other gifts for the sisters who are part of AGAPE’s foster care program. In addition to the wonderful gifts the siblings received, AGAPE was also given a monetary donation from the funds students brought in during the month of December for the service project.
SUA Artists Enter Farm City Poster Contest
Several Success Unlimited Academy students placed in the Farm City Poster Contest. Sixth-grade teacher Sharon Turman encouraged her students to participate. This year’s theme was “Alabama Agriculture: 365 Sunrises and 7 Billion Mouths To Feed.” Sixth-graders Sahvannah Cosby, Madison Cardenas and Nancy Tamayo were selected as winners and were awarded cash prizes. Their posters will be sent to the county competition.
Catholic Anatomy Students Assist Local Veterinarian
Montgomery Catholic High School anatomy students assisted veterinarian Dr. Cynthia Brooks with spaying and neutering dogs at the Elmore County Humane Shelter recently. Montgomery Catholic’s anatomy teacher, Elizabeth Harbin, invited her students to attend this optional field trip. The students who attended were able to gain service hours for the time they gave to the shelter while gaining hands-on experience in the sciences. A sincere thank-you to the Elmore County Humane Shelter for allowing Catholic to have a class on-site. Montgomery Catholic seniors Zachary Jones, Julia Starr and Carolina Edwards are shown with their “patients.”
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Holy Cross Begins Competitive Basketball
Sylvan Students Visit Montgomery Zoo
Miss Liza’s elementary class from Sylvan Learning Center recently visited the Montgomery Zoo after studying a unit on animals in science. They were able to observe firsthand the animals and their habitats, different kinds of birds and what they eat. The albino tiger and the rhino were especially popular with the kids. Before leaving the zoo, everyone enjoyed a ride on the train and drinking hot chocolate.
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
For the second year in a row, Holy Cross Episcopal School students have begun playing competitive basketball in the Catholic Youth Organization, which has graciously accepted Holy Cross teams into its league. Elementary students are afforded the challenge of learning the many skills involved in playing basketball, as well as the importance of good sportsmanship and teamwork. With the addition of Holy Cross’s new athletic director (and basketball coach), Joe Proctor, the basketball team is learning new skills rapidly and improvement is seen each week.
MPS Athletic Director Earns National Certification
William Dean, district athletic director at Montgomery Public Schools, has been recognized by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) as a Certified Athletic Administrator. To earn this distinction, Dean demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and expertise in the field of interscholastic athletic administration. The voluntary certification process included a thorough evaluation of the candidate’s educational background, experience and professional contributions, as well as a rigorous, comprehensive written examination.
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Cornerstone Holds Annual Community Service Day
Carr Middle School Takes Field Trip to Brunswick Zone
Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s annual Community Service Day was January 19. The focus this year was Reality and Truth Ministries. LaDonna Brendle, director of the ministry, spoke at the opening chapel explaining to the students what the ministry does for the homeless in Montgomery. Cornerstone’s older students went off campus to serve at the ministry center organizing the clothes closet, picking up trash outside, and cleaning and preparing for lunch. The younger students stayed at school and prepared lunches and toiletry bags, Valentine bags and scripture cards to be delivered to Reality and Truth. The day ended with pizza at CiCi’s!
Academy Fourth-Graders Create Spanish Game
Fourth-grade students at Montgomery Academy were recently challenged to develop a Spanish-language learning game as part of their world language curriculum. The students will share their ideas and demonstrate how their game works with their fellow classmates. Each class will then vote on the most original game, the most useful game and the most fun game to play. Students will then put the winning projects to the test with a game day later in the semester! One group developed its game with a new classmate in mind to help her review the first semester vocabulary.
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In January, students from Johnnie Carr Middle School enjoyed a field trip to Brunswick Zone bowling alley. Members of the Alabama State University bowling team and head bowling coach Andrew Chatmon provided tips to improve the students’ skills. Professional bowler Michael Williams II also was on hand to demonstrate his bowling and offer valuable life lessons. Williams was the 2013 Professional Bowling Champion for the Professional Bowling Association (PBA). Below, Alabama State University Head Bowling Coach Andrew Chatmon helps Janobe Edmon, a student at Johnnie Carr Middle School, with his form.
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Catholic Wrestlers Take Honors At Julian McPhillips Invitational
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s wrestling team participated in the Julian McPhillips Invitational Wrestling Tournament hosted by Saint James School January 9-10. Catholic sophomore Zachary Van Alst took first place in the 122-lb weight class and junior Gabe Keating took second in the 154-lb weight class. The Knights finished eleventh in the tournament, with only six wrestlers participating. They are coached by Coy Hunter. From left are Thomas Nekic, Richard Kanneh, Thomas McMillen, Julian McPhillips, Coach Coy Hunter, Mel Koontz, Zachary Van Alst, Gabe Keating, Cameron Harris and Nate Smith.
STJ Seniors Awarded Full Scholarships to UA
Saint James School seniors Pearce Barringer and McLean Stewart were each awarded the Alabama Forensics Council Scholarship, a full scholarship to the University of Alabama, after competing at the University of Alabama Hall of Fame High School Speech and Debate Tournament held January 16-17 in Tuscaloosa. “Both of these young men have worked very hard individually and as team members to achieve this success,” said STJ Forensics Coach, Dr. Ian Turnipseed. “After years of competition, they are both very deserving of these awards and we are looking forward to following their achievements in college.” At the University of Alabama tournament, Barringer received first place in Extemporaneous Speaking, first place in Impromptu Speaking, and second place in After Dinner Speaking. Stewart received third place in Original Oratory, third place in Extemporaneous Speaking, was a Semi-Finalist in Impromptu Speaking, and took fifth place in Duo Interpretation with fellow STJ teammate, Cassidy Duncan. The Saint James team took second place at the tournament in Individual Events and Third Place overall. Phillip Davis received first-place speaker and Tournament Champion in Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate. Bradley Wascher received second place in Extemporaneous Speaking. Hayden Cavanaugh received fourth place in Extemporaneous Speaking and fifth place in Impromptu Speaking. Erica Aho received fifth place in Humorous Interpretation. Phillip Goodwyn and Henry Olree received a semi-finalist award in Impromptu Speaking. Mason Edwards and Gibeom Kim received a quarter finalist place in Public Forum Debate. From left are Pearce Barringer, Saint James School Forensics Coach Dr. Ian Turnipseed and McLean Stewart. Shown above is the award-winning Saint James Forensics Team.
Academy Middle School Skypes Around the World
Montgomery Academy middle school music teacher Dr. Sallye York has incorporated an innovative teaching method in her music classroom- Skype! York has scheduled Skype conferences with musicians in Brazil, Nigeria, Korea and the United States to assist fifth- and sixth-grade students at Montgomery Academy as they learn about the diverse types of music in cultures around the world. In each Skype session, the musicians discuss the culture and history of music in their country, then play an example of that music to the students. The musicians also share information about the cities where they live. The Skype sessions transform traditional classroom learning by allowing students to interact live and ask questions, connecting directly with people in the country they are studying from their classroom. During their study of South American music, the students were introduced to Teca Gondim and Tota Portela, a married flute-piano duo that live in Salvador, Brazil. Earlier in the semester, students visited with Nigerian composer Godwin Sadoh, an organist, pianist and composer living in Abuja. For their study on Asia, Korean pianist Jiyoung Chung has put together a video for the students. Finally, as they study Native American music, the class will Skype with University of Houston professor Dr. Courtney Crappell. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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BTW Magnet Students Present Talent Show
Booker T. Washington Magnet High School presented “Showcase 2015 Passport: A Cultural Celebration of Our International Heritage” January 16 and 17 at the Davis Theatre. This year’s show featured performances and presentations from each of BTW’s creative magnets which included: the Creative and Performing Arts Center, Academy for Communication Arts, Center for Advanced Technology, and the Center for Law. MPS students were able to see a special students-only preview January 16 at the Davis Theatre. Shown, BTW Magnet High School students perform for a special preview of their annual student talent showcase.
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MEA Volleyball Team Receives State Championship Rings
The Macon East Academy Lady Knights volleyball team received their 4-Peat State Champions rings recently. The four-time state championship team went undefeated this year with a regular season record of 22-0. The Lady Knights defeated Bessemer to win the title game at Faulkner University in October. Following the state tournament, Morgan Pounds represented Macon East in the AISA All-Star game. Jesi Garrett was named AISA All-Metro player of the year for a second consecutive year, and Erica Hammonds received the AISA coach of the year acknowledgement. Front row from left are: Sara Margaret Poundstone, second row: Jessica Nam, Deven Kennedy and Morgan Pounds; back row: Madison Lane, Meagan Manley, Jesi Garrett, Lexi Brantley, Sami Nesbitt and Payton Traff. 21
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Holy Cross Students Make New Resolutions
STJ Preschoolers Ship Goodies to Military
Saint James School pre-K4 students in Mrs. Capilouto’s class made Valentine’s Day cards for deployed military service women and men, and attached them to boxes of Girl Scout cookies. The treats will be sent to Georgia for bulk packaging and then shipped to Afghanistan, Kuwait and Turkey. For more information on this meaningful project, visit Operation Taste of Home at HugsForSoldiers.org.
Students at Holy Cross Episcopal School are familiar with setting and meeting goals. This January, teachers encouraged students to think about the year ahead of them and set goals for themselves. Ms. Echols’ second-grade class started the task of setting resolutions by first researching and understanding the meaning of the word. After a thorough class discussion, each student was assigned the task of illustrating and composing five resolutions for the new year. The students’ resolutions ranged from studying more to cleaning their rooms. “Many of the second-graders have resolved to exercise more and eat healthier,” Echols said. “It looks like 2015 will be a great year!” Other classes also set goals for the year. Mrs. Stuart’s third-graders enjoyed the process of planning for the new year. Their goals included going on a trip to Greece and finding a whole dinosaur skeleton. “This class is intelligent and fun-loving and it shows in their goals,” Stuart said. Our sixth-graders got very specific with their goals. They not only made goals for the new year but also made plans for how to reach their goals. One sixth-grader plans to study harder at least thirty minutes every night. “With plans like the ones my students have made, I have no doubt they will reach their goals,” said their teacher, Mrs. Lee. Second-graders’ resolutions are shown.
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Success Unlimited Hosts Motivational Speaker
Success Unlimited Academy claimed another victory during its annual Auburn vs. Alabama food drive. While encouraging students to serve their community’s needs, motivational guest speaker Jenny Reese Clark shared her own personal testimony in order to educate and encourage students. From drug addiction to prison, Clark spoke on the consequences of poor choices and how even the worst situations imaginable can be turned around with proper dedication, nurturing and guidance. Clark’s life experience taught students that everyday decisions affect everyday outcomes and true victory over circumstances is obtainable. To learn more about Clark, her history, and exactly what makes the difference in her life visit jennyreeseclark.com.
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Montessori @ Mulberry Begins Continent Study
Montessori at Mulberry’s primary classroom is starting the new year studying North America. “The kids are so excited about ‘visiting’ North America!” said Director of Education Terri Jackson. “We have our passports ready and before the end of the year, we will have a classroom full of world travelers!” M@M’s primary class will visit each continent throughout this next semester, learning about the animals, terrain, varied cultures and flags of different countries. Don’t miss the boat! Call M@M Executive Director Jackie Maloy at (334) 265-7733 or (334) 462-0548 for your personalized tour. Zoe, daughter of Andrew and Lois Cortell, is shown coloring a map of North America.
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ACA Elementary Classes Have Interactive Learning
Montessori @ Hampstead Enjoys Christmas Outing Middle school students from Montessori School at Hampstead, along with lead middle school teacher/guide Roger Burdette, enjoyed a night out recently. The group ate dinner at a local restaurant, then attended a performance of A Christmas Carol at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. This evening followed a study of the novel by Charles Dickens, and lessons in restaurant and theater etiquette.
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
Students in Alabama Christian Academy’s fourth-grade classes recently gained an understanding of world holiday traditions from individuals with diverse cultural backgrounds, as well as by using technology to gather information in an interactive experience. The students learned from special guests throughout the day who are from the Ukraine, Mexico, Canada and Denmark. The guests shared their experiences from their native countries during the holidays and the traditions their families would enjoy to give the students an idea of the similarities and differences between cultures. By employing iPad technology to learn interactively with “passports” and QR codes posted throughout the school, the students were able to learn about other cultural traditions at the holidays in addition to information regarding the countries that they learned about from the featured guest speakers. Learning through this experience helped the students to not only expand their knowledge about the world outside Alabama, on which the fourth grade focuses in history, but also about the travel process through the passports and the technology of QR codes to access information online.
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Catholic Senior Named All-State Honorable Mention
Montgomery Catholic senior Thomas “T.J.” Stokes was named All-State Honorable Mention Class 4A Running Back by the Alabama Sports Writers Association. Stokes had a great year with the Knights. He was honored as the Private School Player of the week by the Montgomery Quarterback Club for his performance September 12 against Saint James. Stokes rushed for 185 yards on 15 carries in Catholic’s effort against Saint James. He tied a state record during the game with a 99-yard run from scrimmage for a touchdown. He is the son of Ivy and Thomas Stokes Jr. of Montgomery. Photo credit: Total Image
Academy Students Meet NASA’s Gene Kranz
Montgomery Academy students in Denise Dubick’s Introduction to Engineering class recently attended the Air University Foundation Luncheon featuring honored guest Gene Kranz. After receiving his degree in aeronautical engineering, Kranz joined the NASA Space Task Group, serving as flight director for all of the Project Gemini Missions and many of the Apollo missions, including the Apollo 11 lunar landing. He bravely led the “Tiger Team” for the successful return of the Apollo 13 crew. In 1983, Kranz was assigned as director of mission operations at NASA with responsibilities for all aspects of mission design, testing, planning, training and spaceflight operations. He retired from NASA in 1994 after 37 years of federal service. Kranz is a co-recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and a New York Times best-selling author. Speaking of his early years in the space program, how Mission Control came to be, and his experiences with the Apollo missions, Kranz also imparted what leadership and trust mean to him. “I never really thought about the Apollo missions before,” said Academy sophomore Jacob Johns. “I had never even seen the movie Apollo 13. It was really cool to learn something new about the space program and what our country has done to explore. I also learned a lot about leadership and not giving up — what it means to take on responsibility and about fighting for success.” Other students attending the luncheon were Taylor Dockery, Preston Clark, John Forrest, Freddie Lieux, Taylor Brown and Tim Russom. Long-time friend of the Academy, Colonel Bob Taffett, graciously donated the tickets for the luncheon to the class.
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Success Unlimited Holds Food Drive
Each fall semester, Success Unlimited Academy celebrates the blessings in our lives by giving back to those in need. Every year the school partners with the Montgomery Food Bank and collects canned goods to help feed the hungry. To motivate and encourage students to participate, the faculty hosts a friendly competition between Auburn and Alabama fans to see who will bring in the most food. This year the students rallied together for the worthy cause and brought in more than 1,000 cans of food! In appreciation of a job well done, students were allowed to wear the team of their choice shirts and jeans at the end of the food drive. This year’s victory goes to Alabama---Roll Tide!
Floyd FBLA Adopts Families at Christmas
Floyd Middle Magnet’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) student organization supported the Salvation Army Angel children for the seventh year. Parents and FBLA students adopted two families with children, providing clothing, toys and educational games. This year additional help came from Maxwell Air Force Base. Together Floyd and Maxwell were able to provide more than 150 toys, DVDs and special stockings for additional children. Thomas Brown is the FBLA advisor.
Fitzpatrick Administrator Watches Over Students
Dr. William Milledge, principal at Fitzpatrick Elementary, made sure students were warmly dressed as they prepared to walk home after school during Montgomery’s recent cold spell.
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McLemore Named Future STJ Head of School
The Saint James School board of directors unanimously selected Dr. Lawrence U. (Larry) McLemore as the succeeding Head of School following Melba Richardson’s retirement June 30. After 32 years of exemplary service to Saint James School, Richardson announced her retirement date last summer to provide the school’s search committee adequate time to identify the best candidate possible to serve as her successor. McLemore will take his new post as Head of School on July 1, marking his 26th year of affiliation with Saint James School. McLemore’s career in education started in the classroom but has reached far beyond in recent years. He has taught several History courses, with his selfproclaimed favorite of Advanced Placement United States History. His students have earned an average score of 4.04 on the AP College Board exams over the past five years. In his early years of teaching, McLemore drew on his own field experience, and served as a faculty member and a middle school and varsity football coach. In 2012, he moved into the role of Saint James High School College Counselor and Dean of Student Programs while continuing to teach his AP US History course. In 2014, he transitioned into the role of Director of Advancement for the school, while again, continuing to teach AP US History. As Director of Advancement, he has worked diligently to bring several of the school’s department strategies together, including Admissions, Alumni, Marketing, and Development. In a letter announcing the head of school appointment, the board of directors said that McLemore was chosen from a slate of over three-dozen national and international candidates. In addition to weighing professional expertise, the search committee considered each applicant by measuring them against a list of qualifications deemed critical for the job including a person of honor, integrity and moral conviction; a positive communicator; someone who would be approachable to all members of the school community; a person of healthy self-confidence but with a good sense of humor; a person demonstrating a strong work ethic who would be firm and resolute in executing policy; and a person who holds a student-centered philosophy with a passion for working with and defining limits of young people. “Dr. McLemore has served with distinction in his role as Director of Advancement,” the Board’s letter stated. “His foundation is built on Saint James; he will be the first Saint James graduate to serve as Head of School. We are confident Larry will be a dynamic leader for many, many years to come.” McLemore, a native Montgomerian, completed his undergraduate studies summa cum laude in History and Political Science at Huntingdon College and earned his Master’s degree in Secondary Education from Vanderbilt University. He completed his Doctorate in History from Auburn University where he was awarded for distinction in his doctoral fields of study. Larry is married to Josie Mitchell McLemore, and they have a two-year-old son, Wilder. Current Saint James School Head of School Melba Richardson is shown with future Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore. 27
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ACA Fifth-Grader Wins Schoolwide Spelling Bee
From left, Alabama Christian Academy fifth-grader Vivien Lin won the schoolwide spelling bee, beating representatives from the sixth, seventh and eighth grades. Other contestants included Piper Witcher (6th grade), Madison Davis (7th grade) and Gracie Shaddix (8th grade). Lin will move on to the Montgomery County Spelling Bee at Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church, where she will compete against students from other schools in the River Region on February 2.
Trinity Participates In Lego Program
Trinity students have been participating in an after-school program on Tuesdays in the Lower School media room. Bricks 4 Kidz, a Lego building program, is an educational and developmental (STEM) program that promotes fine motor skills, organizational skills, and social-emotional skills through Lego building for grades K5fifth. Students construct a new model each week based on exciting themes from space to sports, amusement parks to animals. Registration is now open for the the winter session, which began January 13. Shown, Benton Palmer (5th grade) and Charlie Stokes (3rd grade) enjoying Bricks 4 Kidz after-school program. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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Success Unlimited Faculty And Staff Building Bridges
On January 4, Success Unlimited Academy held a professional development meeting for its teachers and staff. One of the primary focuses of the meeting was to review the school’s accreditation goals which were written in 2012 and evaluate how the faculty and staff are doing thus far. “It is important to present these goals often with our faculty and staff to determine what steps need to be taken now to ensure the success of reaching each goal. Each year we add new staff members so staying in tune with our school improvement plan is crucial for our school’s successful growth and development,” said Principal Susan Alred. All of the goals require a unified team focus, so team building exercises were part of the informative in service. Becky Bowden, assistant athletic director, had the staff engage in a “building bridges” activity to teach the importance of communication and planning when trying to accomplish a goal. Other activities included the staff taking the Belbin Notes Assessment Test which determines what leadership style each faculty member has followed by a discussion on how important each style is for the good of the team. Faculty members are shown “building bridges” during team building exercise. From left are Sharon Turman, Jeff Camp, Jana Edmundson, Peggy Henderson, Jameelah Louis and Susan Alred.
Holy Cross Holds 16th Annual Low Country Boil and Auction
In 1998, the first year students enrolled at Holy Cross Episcopal School, friends and family gathered to raise funds for the school at the first Low Country Boil and Auction. Now, sixteen years later, as Holy Cross has done each spring, the tradition will continue with the annual Low Country Boil and Auction on Sunday, April 19. As in years past, the halls of the school will be transformed to a “silent” auction house with numerous fabulous auction items. The grounds of the school will be tented and festively decorated for guests to enjoy a fantastic fete and dinner prepared by chefs extraordinaire, David Gadilhe of Jim-N-Nick’s Barbecue and Chef Phillip Goodwyn. During this grand annual gala, benefactors, current and past board members, families and friends of Holy Cross all come together to support the school and enjoy a great evening. Silent auction items are shown.
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Omega Psi Phi Donates to MPS Mental Health
Members of a fraternal organization made a donation recently to Montgomery Public Schools to address a problem some said they encounter on a daily basis: students in need of mental health services. Omega Psi Phi’s Montgomery graduate chapter donated a check for $650 to the Jimmy Barker Mental Health Services Foundation, an amount that all parties said can make a big difference with even small needs. “Very often when our children have to be hospitalized with a mental health issue, we have to travel to Dothan or Birmingham or east Alabama to access those services,” said Dr. Letha Maxton, director of MPS Student Social Services. “Many of our parents don’t have that kind of money so we would be using this money as an emergency fund for those parents when that situation happens. If you can, imagine being told that your child is seriously ill and the only thing that stands between you and treatment for that child is a tank of gas.” New Montgomery County Sheriff Derrick Cunningham and Probate Judge Steve Reed attended the check presentation at Goodwyn Middle School. “In light of the cutbacks in state budgets, every dollar counts,” Reed said. “Mental health commitments are something we deal with a lot in the Probate Court, and whether it’s from foundations or private citizens ... from other organizations or corporations, every dollar really counts.” Members of Omega Psi Phi present a check to Montgomery Public Schools’ Student Social Services January 15 at Goodwyn Middle School. Front from left are Montgomery County Sheriff Derrick Cunningham; Dr. Letha Maxton, director of student social services for MPS; Montgomery County Probate Judge Steven Reed; and Shun Ross, Uniserve Director for the Alabama Education Association.
STJ Trojanettes Meet Auburn Tiger Paws
The Saint James dance team, the Trojanettes, travelled to Auburn to participate in the Auburn Tiger Paws Dance Team clinic January 17. Six of the Trojanettes attended the clinic and performed with the Tiger Paws at the men’s basketball game that evening. The clinic was an open invitation to dance teams eighth through twelfth grade. The STJ girls had the opportunity to meet and work with dance teams from across the country. “It was an exciting game and a thrill for our team to be a part of something so special,” said Coach Kim Bullard. The STJ Trojanettes who participated in the Auburn Tiger Paws Dance Team clinic were Anna Claire Bullard, Maddy Grace Hunter, Payton Christian, Brooke Engles, Mallory Larson and Sailor Miles. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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Carter Chandler Wins Academy Geography Bee
Carter Chandler, an eighth-grade student at Montgomery Academy, is the school champion of the National Geographic Bee. The school bee, at which students answered questions on geography, was the first round in the 27th annual National Geographic Bee. Thousands of schools around the United States and in five U.S. territories are participating in the 2015 Bee. The school champions, including Chandler, will take a written test; up to 100 of the top scorers on that test in each state will then be eligible to compete in their state bee on March 27. The National Geographic Society will provide an all-expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C., for state winners to participate in the national championship rounds May 11-13. The first-place national champion will receive a $50,000 college scholarship, a lifetime membership in the Society including a subscription to National Geographic magazine, and a trip to the Galapagos Islands, courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic. Shown, Middle School Director John McWilliams presents Carter Chandler with his National Geographic Bee winning certificate and medal.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Success Unlimited Names Ambassadors
The Middle School Campus of Success Unlimited Academy announces its 201415 school ambassadors. Selected by their teachers and administrators, the students were selected based on character, leadership, scholarship and friendliness. Duties include welcoming visitors to the campus, hosting events and representing SUA at functions. Bethany Tyner, daughter of Cindy and Keith Tyner, is a seventh-grader who has attended SUA for two years. “Bethany is dependable and well-liked by her classmate,” states her teacher, Mrs. Clinton. Parrish Harris, seen here, son of Sharda Harris, is a first-year student at SUA and is also in the 7th grade. He attends the Maxwell Base Chapel and represents his school well with his sharp style and gracious manners.
Catholic Cheerleaders Invited to Cheer at Auburn
Montgomery Catholic’s varsity cheerleaders were invited to Auburn University December 20 to perform at halftime during the Tigers basketball game against Xavier. The Auburn athletic department requested a performance at halftime from Montgomery Catholic after the team attended and performed so well at the university’s NCA cheer camp over the summer. The Knights were the only performance at halftime, with a minute and a half performance consisting of various stunts, tumbling and dance. The stadium was completely sold out. This is the first time a cheer team for Montgomery Catholic has performed solely at a collegiate halftime. The Knights were excited to be invited and look forward to future opportunities at Auburn. Pictured are the Montgomery Catholic 2014-2015 varsity cheerleaders with their coach, Samantha Rose, at Auburn University. Front row: from left are Audrey Kim, Brianna Foley (Captain), Courtney Cool and Ashley Kim (Captain); middle row: Victoria Barranco, Katie Reeves, Madison Gaston, Katie Slear, Madison Bednarz and Maggie Ward; and top row: Elizabeth Overton, Kathleen Beesley (Co-Captain), Eryka Ellington, Maegan Cobb and Lauren Smith.
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Success Unlimited Presents Holiday Extravaganza
Bethany Tyner, shown here, and Parrish Harris served as SUA ambassadors at the recent “SUA Holiday Extravaganza.” As ambassadors, they greeted guests in their stylish holiday attire and extended a warm SUA welcome. After handing out programs, the students escorted friends and families to a lavishly decorated auditorium for the performance by Success Unlimited Academy’s Drama Department, “A Holiday Extravaganza.” Music and Drama Instructor Elizabeth Lee, along with her cast, chorus, and crew, entertained the audience with a rich, lively and colorful holiday performance.
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
Catholic Names New Head Football Coach
Montgomery Catholic has named Aubrey Blackwell as head football coach. Blackwell joins Catholic after two seasons as the assistant head football coach and offensive coordinator at Saint James School in Montgomery. “We are extremely excited for Coach Blackwell and his family to join our community at Montgomery Catholic. We feel very fortunate to have a man of such high character, faith, and vision leading our student athletes. I look forward to seeing the impact Coach Blackwell will be able to have on our athletes and overall community for many years to come,” said Athletic Director Daniel Veres. Blackwell began his football coaching career at St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile. His roles included passing game coordinator and co-offensive coordinator. He also has 6 years’ experience as a college Assistant Baseball coach-- three years at Campbell University and three years at Montevallo. Blackwell grew up in Montgomery and graduated from Lee High School. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Montevallo. He and his wife, Brandi, have been married for nine years and are the proud parents of a son and daughter, Will and Kayla. Coach Blackwell began his new position at Catholic in mid-January. On February 11, the school will host a reception in the Middle/High School campus Library to welcome Coach Blackwell and his family to the school.
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Floyd Middle Magnet Collects for Christmas
Floyd Middle Magnet School’s Spanish Club, class and band students teamed up to collect Christmas shoe boxes during the holidays for the less fortunate. Students also volunteered to wrap the presents in class. Items brought in were scarves, socks, books, toothpaste, toothbrushes, toys, pencils, caps and stickers. Wrapped boxes were collected by Child Protect.
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Saint James Holds Grandparents’ Day
Saint James School’s Leu Elementary held its annual Grandparents’ Day January 16. School administrators and students pre-K3 through 5th grades welcomed more than 700 grandparents and special friends to campus to enjoy the morning together. There were grandparents from Montgomery and the River Region, and others from around the state, throughout the Southeast, and across the nation. There were even a few grandparents from far beyond the U.S. who coordinated their family visits with STJ Grandparents’ Day – from as far as Australia and India! STJ K4 student Maggie Whatley is shown with her grandparents, Mary and Earl Whatley, and Connie and Joe Whatley [seated].
The following schools participated in O’Connor Tennis Center’s fall season: MacMillian, Saint James, Prattville Christian Academy, Bear, Halcyon, Holy Cross, Catoma, Brewbaker Primary, and Martin Luther King. The spring season will start Monday, April 6.
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Montgomery County Schools
MA Students Get Superior Ratings at Theater Competition
Montgomery Academy students recently participated in Trumbauer, an annual Alabama secondary theatre festival, one of the largest events in the southeast region. Trumbauer celebrates the high school theatre experience. Students from ninth through twelfth grades compete in 28 individual performance and/or technical theatre events. Students first compete in one of six district festivals. This year, more than 2,500 secondary students competed at the district level with more than 1,400 advancing to State. MA students competed in nine individual events. Eight performances received SUPERIOR ratings from students Abigail Hagood, Jackie Lee, Evan Price, Nora Newcomb, Lindsey Warwick, Jack Anderson, Claudia Ann Rutland and one performance received an EXCELLENT rating with student Annie Ramsey. In the Studio Theater category (short plays under 30 minutes), the cast of THE SPOT, a satire of the filming of a political ad including seniors Price and Newcomb, sophomore Ramsey, and freshmen Max Zink, Lauren Muller and Maria Gamble, won second place in the state. Additionally, Price and Gamble were named to the 24-member All-Star cast for outstanding performances in their shows. “Actors related well to their characters. I believed them... highest compliment I can pay,” wrote one judge on their SPOT ballot.
STJ Middle Schoolers Spend ‘Hour of Code’
Saint James middle school students dedicated their exploratory period to “The Hour of Code” January 15. During this time, the students were grouped with peer advisors and learned the basics of writing computer code. This global initiative was designed to not only engage students in computer science, but aid in the development of their creativity, problem-solving skills, and logic. Saint James middle school includes sixth, seventh and eighth grades. In addition to their academic courses, the students have an elective course, a physical education period, and an exploratory class. Each grade level has its own exploratory courses such as Speech & Debate, Foreign Language, and Technology Tools. Shown, STJ eighth-graders Greta Decker and Christopher Ward assist their classmates during “The Hour of Code.”
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Montgomery Academy Students Sponsor Children at Brantwood
For the sixth year, Montgomery Academy Upper and Middle School students sponsored the 27 residents of Brantwood Children’s Home for Christmas. Each child’s wish list was given to a Middle or Upper School homeroom group and students, faculty and staff purchased their desired gifts along with lots of fun extras. In addition, MA has purchased tickets for the Brantwood children to attend “Behind The Blind Side: A Conversation with Michael Oher” sponsored by AGAPE this February at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. The gifts were delivered December 18. This project is coordinated by the Academy’s service club HEART (Helping Eagles Are Right There). MA students met as a homeroom group to discuss what they were going to buy their Brantwood child, went shopping for the gifts together and wrapped them. Many of the Academy students bought the presents with money they earned doing chores around the house or from other after-school jobs. For Megan Thompson, a senior at Montgomery Academy, the ability to do something for others should be used as much as possible. “We’re so blessed and we’re so fortunate to have all that we have, and to be able to give back to those in need, is a great opportunity for us,” Thompson said.
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Montgomery County Schools
Montgomery Catholic Hosts Basketball Showcase
Holy Cross Celebrates National Soup Month
The Episcopal communities of Montgomery have joined together this winter to help Holy Cross Episcopal School with a delicious fundraising effort. Volunteers from St. John’s Episcopal Church, Church of the Ascension, and Church of the Holy Comforter coordinated the creation and sale of six different artisanal soups for their “Loving Spoonfuls” fundraiser. The fundraiser took place throughout the month of January, which is National Soup Month. The soups featured varied widely, from vegetarian black bean chili and a robust, red bell pepper bisque, to a creamy rich New England clam chowder and an exotic chicken mulligatawny, an Anglo-Indian curried soup. Two other soups of limited availability had a huge fan-following: a shrimp gumbo, adapted from a recipe by the New York Times’ lead food columnist, Mark Bittman, and a hearty beef and vegetable soup created by St. John’s parishioner, Mike Jarrell. Jarrell’s soup is a popular dish at the annual St. John’s Bazaar, and many families were excited to have the opportunity to take some home. The soups will be delivered to the school and the churches in mid-February, just in time for Lent, which begins on February 18. Soup is a traditional meal served during these forty days of fasting, prayer and reflection. All of the proceeds from the Loving Spoonfuls soup sale went to support Holy Cross Episcopal School’s Annual Mission for Excellence.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
Montgomery Catholic hosted four basketball games in the first Alabama Catholic Basketball Showcase January 3. The Showcase matched up two schools from the Archdiocese of Mobile (Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School and Mobile’s McGill Toolen High School) and two schools from the Diocese of Birmingham (Huntsville’s Saint John Paul II High School and Birmingham’s John Carroll High School). The Archdiocese/Diocese that won three of the four games would bring home the Bishop’s Cup Trophy. The Archdiocese of Mobile had a clean sweep, winning all four games. Phillip Murphy, head coach of the McGill Toolen boys’ varsity basketball team, presented the Bishop’s cup trophy to Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi in Mobile. At the end of each game two people were selected for the Showcase All-star team and one person was named MVP of the game. Game 1: Varsity Girls from Montgomery Catholic faced Saint John Paul II, and won with a 57-38 victory. Montgomery Catholic’s Iyana Tate was named to the All-Star team and scored 21 points, and Catholic’s Regime Parker was named MVP with 20 points. Game 2: Varsity Boys from Montgomery Catholic faced Saint John Paul II, Final Score 69-54, Catholic. Montgomery Catholic was led by Showcase MVP Reggie Gee with 20 points and 8 rebounds, All-Star team member Jacob Winston with 18 points and 5 assists, and Reggie Jackson with 11 points 10 rebounds. Games 3 and 4 featured McGill Toolen against John Carroll. The Showcase was sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, who provided the Bishop’s Cup Trophy, medals for the all-star team members and the MVP of each game, T-shirts for all athletes and cooked the food for the hospitality room for all the team players, refs and coaches. From left are the All-star team and MVP’s for the first two games: Saint John Paul II- Tyler Maze Showcase All-star Team, Montgomery Catholic - Jacob Winston Showcase All-star team, Montgomery Catholic- Iyana Tate Showcase All-star team, Montgomery Catholic - Regime Parker Showcase MVP, Saint John Paul II- Caitlin Pott Showcase All-star team, Montgomery Catholic- Reggie Gee Showcase MVP.
Success Unlimited Offers Enrichment
Once the students are dismissed at 12:30 p.m. from Success Unlimited Academy, the halls are filled with those who elect to participate in the “Extended Success Enrichment Program.” Following lunch, the students are off to activities that provide fun and learning. In its second year, the “Extended Success” program holds classes at the Fairlane Campus from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. once a week. The variety of classes varies from semester to semester. Julie Beard is the activities director. The fall semester consisted of Guitar 1, Life Skills, and Art Exploration. Drama and music instructor Liz Lee taught Guitar. The Life Skills class, taught by Janet Stambaugh and Tullis Young, had students eagerly anticipating their next cooking lab or arts and crafts project. Art Exploration instructor Maria Freedman teaches students various art techniques and mediums. Mrs. Tullis Young, Gabrielle Patton and Tiffany Segrest are shown. 36
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Macon East Artists Exhibit Work at MMFA
Six Macon East Academy art students, taught by MEA art instructor Tiffany Ala, were honored to be selected as part of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts quarterly ARTWORKS Corridor Exhibition. The gallery exhibition theme for this quarter is “Life Reflections,” and local high school students submitted art consistent with the current MMFA gallery display that focuses on the lives, traditions, and environment of African Americans of the 20th century. There were 113 entries from 13 different public and private schools and/or teachers, and 50 were selected for the exhibition. The MEA art students with pieces currently on display at the museum are: Jordan Amerson, Lizzie Carr, Jessica Gulsby, Kirksey Jones, Bailey Singleton and Hannah Walters. Carr, Gulsby and Jones all submitted entries in photography, Amerson’s artwork is a silhouette, Singleton did a color pencil drawing and Walters an acrylic painting. The exhibit is on display at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts through March 15. From left are Hannah Walters, Jordan Amerson, Lizzie Carr, Tiffany Ala (art instructor), Bailey Singleton, Jessica Gulsby and Kirksey Jones.
Catholic Students Celebrate Christmas
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory Middle and High School campuses decorated the school and made service part of their preparation for the Christmas season. The Middle School sponsored children through the angel tree program, welcomed Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi to campus and ended the semester with a Christmas Talent Show. The High School campus supported Children’s Hospital with toy donations through the Key Club and Common Ground Montgomery’s Christmas Store through the Young Women’s Leadership club’s Tacky Sweater fundraiser. Both elementary campuses performed in their own Christmas plays and enjoyed a visit with Santa. All campuses participated in the band concert held on December 11 and supported the St. Vincent De Paul canned food drive.
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Knowledge is profitable because wisdom gives life to those who possess it. ECCLESIASTES 7:12
At Montgomery Catholic, our students flourish in a rigorous academic environment designed to fully develop their individual God-given gifts — while strengthening their lifelong walk in the Christian faith. Enroll now by calling 334-272-7221 ext. 32, or visit www.montgomerycatholic.org. St. Bede Elementary Campus Holy Spirit Elementary Campus Middle School Campus High School Campus www.montgomerycatholic.org
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I want to start this month by congratulating our bus mechanics on their annual inspection conducted last month. The inspection included a check of bus brakes, exhaust, steering, signaling system, tires, and other safety items and maintenance records. Only two deficiencies were found on the 155 buses inspected. This report placed our bus mechanics as top performers in the state! Congratulations to our bus mechanics---Daniel Gilliland, Clemon Motley, Donnie Parsons, Jack Willis, James Woodham, and Don Yarbarough, and to our Shop Foreman Carl Coburn, Shop Supervisor Joey Hamm, Shop Assistant Shari Bryan, Transportation Secretary Kathy Greer, and Transportation Supervisor Neal Messick. Thank you for the hard work and dedication in getting our students to and from school on safe buses.
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
Once our students arrive safely at school, they are excelling! Prattville Intermediate School 5th grader, Jadon King, received top honors in the reading and writing contest sponsored by Hoar Program Management (HPM) and GoDaddy Bowl. Classroom teachers Ms. Patti Connors and Ms. Janet Ellis entered Jadon in the contest. Jadon’s first submission earned him a spot among the top ten finalists. He then traveled to Mobile for a final competition where he placed 5th and won a $1,000.00 scholarship for higher education in addition to other prizes. Congratulations, Jadon! Autauga County students are making a name for themselves all around the state! Members of the Prattville High School Band were invited to fill in for the Auburn University Pep Band at the Middle Tennessee University basketball game on December 29th. I was there to see them perform, and they were outstanding! When I walked into the coliseum, they sounded just like the Auburn University Pep Band. Great job! In Autauga County, we are always focused on the future! I would like to introduce
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the members of our 2015-2016 calendar committee. They are Board Member Eleanor Ballow, Jerome Barrington from Marbury Middle, Susan Carter from Billingsley, John Cooper from Prattville Intermediate, Veronica Hardy from Prattville Elementary, Rebecca Lee from Prattville Primary, Joanna Madison from Pine Level Elementary, Janie Mohajerin from Prattville Junior High, Cassandra Morris from the Technology Center, Ashley Wilkes from Prattville Kindergarten, and Gail Yeargan from Prattville High School. You can contact one of these members at their respective school should you have any questions, comments, or proposals for next year’s calendar. Our plan is to have the calendar approved at the February 16th board meeting. This will assist you in your planning for next year. With so much news to share, take a moment to like “Autauga County Schools” on Facebook! Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.
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Autauga County Schools
Prattville Junior High Holds Diversity Training
Local counselor Martha Ellis provided some excellent diversity training for Prattville Junior High School during a recent teacher inservice. The two hours flew by as faculty learned about the different types of personalities and the strengths and weaknesses of each. Administrators learned about themselves and how they typically relate to others, including students and colleagues. Ellis also reiterated the importance of assembling a staff that includes all types of personalities so that the entire mission is accomplished!
Marbury Cheerleaders Partner With Prattville Kindergarten
The cheerleaders from Marbury High School and 485 kindergarten students from Prattville Kindergarten School joined together at Stanley-Jensen Stadium to show their team spirit. The event began with students parading around the football field in their favorite team gear. The Marbury High School Cheerleaders then led a Pep Rally and demonstrated cheers and stunts. PKS students got to cheer for their favorite teams and the winner of the Change Drive for Music was announced. The Alabama Crimson Tide drew in the most money, but the clear winner was Prattville Kindergarten School. Students raised approximately $1,500 for new music instruments and equipment.
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PJHS Students Clean Up For Service Project Prattville Junior High School’s administration is thankful to Dustin Scott, Coach Jason Brown and Coach Jerry Brown for heading up a service project for DNow students from First Baptist Church Prattville one sunny Saturday afternoon. A team of 20+ seventh- and tenth-graders came to Cat Country to clean windows, trim shrubs, and provide a much-needed clean-up.
Prattville Junior High Wrestlers Dominate
The 2015 Cats Classic was held at Prattville High School in mid-January. Wrestlers from eight schools competed across eight weight divisions. Prattville Junior High School wrestlers dominated the competition and won the tournament. Thanks to Scott Stein, the Countryman Family, and Corbin Stewart for leading the team in its wrestling endeavors.
PKS Celebrates Tacky Christmas
The faculty and staff of Prattville Kindergarten School closed out 2014 with the first Tacky Christmas Fashion Show. Teachers and staff members dressed in their tackiest festive attire and walked the runway for students. Judges had a tough job as they handed out awards for first, second, third place and honorable mention. Judges included Nancy Jackson, Tisha Addison, Sgt. Skip Tallmage and Officer Camille Emmanuel. The students also voted for a Kid’s Choice Award. The community gave outstanding support as they donated prizes for the event.
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Every new year is an opportunity for a fresh start, and this year did not disappoint! On January 2, 2015, I was named Superintendent of Elmore County, where I have had the privilege to serve students, teachers, and administrators for over 22 years. It is with a humble spirit that I begin this new educational journey, continuing to serve all the stakeholders in Elmore County. My first month as Superintendent has proven to be an extremely busy time. I have visited schools and spoken with educators throughout Elmore County, attended community activities, and participated in other educational functions. As my district leadership team, staff members, and I begin the planning process for the next school year, I plan to incorporate ideas shared during these conversations. I have been asked, "Where
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
and how does a new superintendent begin this process?" My answer is: "Be realistic, rely upon your prior experiences, and allow time for your stakeholders to provide you with input and feedback regarding the district plans." As a realistic leader, I must establish a plan that will meet the educational demands of the spring semester and provide focused time to devote to the budgeting process for the next school year. Alabama superintendents will be involved in the budgeting process with our state governmental officials for the 2015-2016 school year. When the legislature convenes in March, our objective will be to communicate to our representatives the amount of funding our systems need from the Alabama State Department of Education to function effectively and to secure as much budget information as possible to plan for the coming school year. I am very thankful for all the experiences afforded to me during my 22 years of service in Elmore County. I have been a classroom teacher, library media specialist, Attendance/ Textbook/Section 504/Library Media Supervisor/Coordinator, Transition/Acting Principal at
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Wetumpka Junior High School and Wetumpka Intermediate School, Curriculum & Instruction Coordinator, Interim Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services & Human Resources, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services & Human Resources, Acting Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and Deputy Superintendent/Chief of Staff. I also hold a CDL with school bus endorsement and drive a school bus on occasion! These experiences will enable me to guide our efforts to ensure our students are provided a quality education in a safe and orderly environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. Once again, I am very excited to serve! Andre` L. Harrison is currently the Superintendent for Elmore County Schools. He has served as a teacher, library media specialist, interim principal, acting principal, transition principal, Attendance, Textbook, and Library Media Education Coordinator, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services and Human Resources, Assistant Superintendent of Education, and the Deputy Superintendent of Education/ Chief of Staff. Dr. Dr. Harrison is a certified AdvancED Lead Evaluator and has served on and led numerous External Review Teams at the district and school levels throughout the United States. Dr. Harrison is married to Monica Harrison, and they have a daughter, Aundrea, who attends the University of AlabamaBirmingham. They reside in Millbrook, Alabama.
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Tallassee Band Students Chosen for All-County
RES Class Uses New Trueflix Program
Misty Trussell’s third-grade class at Redland Elementary School learned about super storms by listening to an online book through Trueflix. Trueflix is a new program at RES that allows students to listen to or read books independently, as well as watch videos regarding each subject. Every Trueflix topic comes with a lesson plan with teaching activities, vocabulary words, small-group activities and project ideas.
These Tallassee students participated in the 2015 All-County Band, featuring band members from Elmore and Coosa counties: Riley Davis, Miriam Bird, Kayla Jolly, Alisha Miller, Anslee Osborne, Madelaine Worley, Trace Bush, Joseph Burdette, Makinsey Mann, Rileigh Jones, Jean Leah Atkins, Andrew Webster, Landon DuBose, Michael Fulmer, Bailey Mann and Brady Atkins. Rileigh Jones, Miriam Bird and Jean Leah Atkins were “first chair” players in their sections. Shown with these students are Robby Glasscock, director of bands for Tallassee City Schools, and Michael Bird, assistant.
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Elmore County Schools
Airport Road Throws ‘Mustang Bucks’ Party
Throughout the first semester, Airport Road Intermediate students earned Mustang Bucks for good behavior, attendance, academic improvement, and academic success. Students cashed in those Mustangs Bucks at the end of the semester for treats and prizes.
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Holtville Middle Beginner Band Performs Christmas Concert
Holtville Middle School’s Beginner Band, consisting of fifth- and sixthgrade students, held its Christmas concert December 15. The band played five songs and was led by Dennis Johnson.
Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
Millbrook Middle Selects Teachers of the Year
Katrina Myers and Natalie Perkins were recently named Millbrook Middle School’s Teachers of the Year. Myers, a fifth-grade teacher, was instrumental in leading a project that provided a new home to one of her students and her family. She was overwhelmingly nominated by her peers. Perkins is the computer science teacher at Millbrook Middle. She has paved the way for the Positive Behavior Support program with enthusiasm and pride. Myers went on to be named Elmore County’s Elementary Teacher of the Year!
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Millbrook Middle Students Perform with Honor Band
The following Millbrook Middle students performed with the Elmore County Honor Band recently: Jordan Dawson, Megan Smith, Will Walker, Sarah Shelton, Michelle Pietrzak, Sydney Brown, AJ Richardson, Jessica Harrison, Austin Dean, Margo Cave, Michael Goodwin, Auguste Adams, David Persky, Otto Burt, Haili Tindell and Kimberly Harrison.
Eclectic Students Receive Visit from Aubie
Eclectic Elementary students who reached their Accelerated Reader goals were surprised by the Elmore County High School band and Auburn mascot, Aubie! Aubie entertained the 206 students while the band played more than ten songs.
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Redland Second-Graders Visit Camp Chandler
Jonah Beth Sims hones her archery skills during Redland Elementary School’s second-grade field trip to Camp Chandler. While there, students also learned teambuilding skills, played Indian games, dipped their own candles, enjoyed lunch and the fun game of GaGa.
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Elmore County Schools
ARIS Choir & Dance Combine for Performance
The Airport Road Choir and Dance Team combined to put on a Christmas show for faculty, students and parents. The gym was packed for the hour-long performance. The choir sang a mixture of new and traditional songs while the dance team performed to ”All I Want for Christmas is YOU.” Dance members even grabbed people from the audience to join in the festivities.
Southside Middle Chooses Outstanding Students
Each Tuesday, Tallassee’s Southside Middle School eighth-grade teachers (Heather Ernest, Renee Tucker, Kim Winchester, Susan Hiebert, Josh Taylor and Heather Henderson) choose a student who has excelled in academics and behavior. The students chosen during the first semester include back row from left, Samantha Griffith, Gabe Lyons, Michael Burgans, Logan Bramlett, Weston Harris, Stuart Smith, Reed Baker, Kendrick Knight and Trace Bush; and front row, LaNae Gray, D’Angelia Holmes, Emily Temple, Kennede White, Mallory Nichols, Catherine Crawford, Mary Kate Lackey, Grace Coker and Natalie Pierce.
Redland Third-Graders Enjoy Weather Visit
ARIS Hosts ‘Western’ Math Night
Airport Road Intermediate School administrators and faculty hosted a math night with a western theme. Parents and students went from game to game strengthening their math skills. Students played games based on concepts like estimating, multiplying, rounding, adding two digit numbers and creating arrays. Teachers gave away treats and prizes to the winners. Students also took their parents to the computer lab to demonstrate Stride Academy, a software program that tracks and rewards student progress using a blend of guided instruction and games. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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ECHS Senior Earns Baseball Scholarship
Michael Wayne Walls, a senior at Elmore County High School, recently signed a baseball scholarship with Central Alabama Community College.
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Redland Elementary third-graders enjoyed seeing meteorologists Josh Johnson and Eric Snitil and the WSFA Storm Tracker in January. They were even on one of the morning TV broadcasts! Johnson and Snitil shared about the importance of knowing what to do during all types of weather, but especially severe weather. They interviewed three students and asked their thoughts about bad weather.
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Redland Competes In National Geographic Bee
On January 9, Redland Elementary School participated in the National Geographic Bee for the third time. The nine participants in grades four, five and six made the highest scores on a written exam to determine eligibility. Fourth-grade teacher Holly O’Dell coordinated the event, while Jenny Hamilton, communications director from the Elmore County District Attorney’s Office, was the moderator. School counselor Brittney Kelley was the rounds judge. Questions were both written and oral, and some included maps. The top three winners were: fifth-grader Seth Aude, first place; sixth-grader Harrison Skala, second place; and sixthgrader Claire Sims, third place. Aude will now take a written exam provided by National Geographic to determine whether he qualifies for the state contest that will be held in Birmingham. From left are contestants Maddie Grace Woolridge, Grady Warren, 2nd-place winner Harrison Skala, Imarius Roberts, Troy MacLean, 1st-place winner Seth Aude, Trent Harris, 3rd-place winner Claire Sims and Alex Easley.
Eclectic Elementary Names Students of the Month
Eclectic Elementary kindergarten Students of the Month for December include: Laura Smith, Kaylan Martin, Adam Sprinkle, Keira Stroud, Marly Bickley, Marley Holley and Dustin Woods; for first grade: Kylie Peterson, Breasia Marshall, Madalyn Calloway, Houston Sides, Bailey Gardner, Kearia Calhoun and Audrey Capps; for second grade: Ellie Milam, Gracie Ann Atkinson, Abbee Stringer, Kelis Harden, Ariyanna Fulton, McKinley Andres and Trinnen Coston; third grade: John Wayne Brunson, Rylie Ramsey, Maddie Clark, Jayla Brooks, Morgan Spear and Laniya Gill; and fourth grade: Cooper Rogers, Sophie Jane Rogers, Haven Rewis, Addyson Stewart and Coleman Rogers.
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Early Starts for Theater Arts
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
Whether they are acting in the starring role or creating a cast of characters in a play of their own making, the theatre is a perfect setting for children to craft stories, act out their ideas and gain confidence in the spotlight. Theatre empowers kids to imagine their own stories and present them for a welcoming audience. As they become comfortable “performing” for family and friends, kids are also cultivating self-assurance for those future moments when all eyes will be on them. The following items offer fun and creative opportunities for children to assemble their own casts, become storytellers, and shine in a production that’s all their own!
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Make Your Own Moster Puppet
My First Fun Felt Masks (Creativity for Kids)
There’s no way puppet building can go wrong with Make Your Own Monster from Melissa and Doug! Drawing on a colorful collection of 30 plush elements including eyes, ears, horns and more, children can craft endless combinations to build their own vision of playful monster puppets. No scissors or glue needed, the soft monster parts easily attach and remove with Velcro. Sturdily crafted with materials that will last through years of theatrical building and performance, kids can assemble an ever-changing cast of expressive characters to perform their monster hit shows!
As one of the earliest dramatic elements in theatrical history, masks are instant trademarks of the stage. Now young children can imagine and create their own stage-worthy masks with ease. The felt mask kit from Creativity for Kids include six soft felt mask templates as well as stickers, rhinestone, yarn and self-stick adhesives that make crafting a mask easy and mess-free. The soft medium of felt also ensures comfortable wearing of the masks (which you don’t get with paper or plastic). In addition to building motor and sensory skills for the younger set, this mask-making activity debuts the craftier side of kids’ creative theater arts.
Doorway Theater
Dinosaur Puppet Set
From finger and hand puppets to marionettes and dolls, every child’s cast of characters can take the stage in style with the Doorway Theater from HABA. Creating the sense of a real show, the Doorway Theater is a theatrical drape that easily installs with telescoping tension rods in different sized doorways. The rods at the top and bottom create a taut front that can hide kids ‘backstage’ as they prep and perform their show. The 67” long façade includes a porthole for surprise appearances, a pocket window to display the name of the show or next act, and a curtain to tie-back when the show goes live! It’s true that “All the world’s a stage”…and now every doorway can be a theater!
Stage-ready right out of the box, this trio of stick puppets only needs their lines and youthful direction to come alive in the spotlight! An easy introduction to dramatic play, this Puppet on a Stick collection includes three stylized dinosaur head puppets with moveable jaws that are easily manipulated by little hands holding the stick. The soft rubberized surface on the heads enhances the puppet’s expressive sensibility while the plastic stick handles offer sturdy operation (and easy cleaning!). The stage is set for T-Rex, Ankylosaur and Triceratops to act out new stories and prehistoric scenarios straight from your child’s imagination.
(Melissa and Doug)
(Educational Insights)
(HABA)
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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COMING
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POP AND ABSTRACT ART
AUM SUMMER
SEE PAGES 8, 9, AND 15.
VIDEO GAME CREATION CAMP SEE PAGES 8 AND 9.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
FUN WAYS TO
CATALOG
AMP UP
CLASSES BEGIN JUNE 1.
YOUR SUMMER!
EARLY REGISTRATION RATES BEFORE APRIL 1.
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Making Your Insecurities Your Securities
I enjoy working with my clients probably just as much as they enjoy calling me. This allows me to guide them towards what I think, as women, most of us lack...confidence in ourselves. We all have our insecurities, and in order to gain that confidence needed, it takes making the most of our insecurities.
1- Remember, nobody or “body” is perfect. Make your inseWhen it comes to styling clients, I am the proudest when they first call me. They have finally realized they want to make a small change which can make a big difference in their self-esteem. We all have small changes to deal with in our lives. I remember when I was younger, I would never step out of the house without wearing makeup. I was so worried I might see the cute boy or the pretty friends and I wouldn’t dare want them to see me without makeup. When you are young your insecurities seem to sky rocket. If I had known then that being confident in myself was going to get me a lot further than the makeup I was wearing, I think I could have floated through those dreaded teenage years a lot easier. Fast forward to now, it’s so funny how life can change your perspective on yourself and others. Getting older, wiser, having a family, and some pretty awesome friends can really take any insecurity you have away. Especially those family members and friends who love you no matter what you do, what you look like or even where you come from. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
curities a positive part of your styling experience. If you don’t like your legs, find pants, skirts, shoes, etc., that will allow you to love them and make them your best asset.
2- Embrace your body from head to toe with your own style. Understanding your body shape, embracing all those areas that you may think are your worst assets, and knowing how to flatter them, will help you embrace your curves, or lack thereof, in some cases.
3- Define your personal style, and when you do, accept it! Feel
4- Understand that it doesn’t matter your shape, size, hair color or skin color, it’s all about being confident in yourself. The more confident you are with your own personal style the more confident you will appear in your clothing. That’s because you’ll intuitively choose pieces that complete you. I always tell my clients that their choice of clothes is more likely to be a reflection of who they are. Now days, I certainly don’t mind walking past a mirror in the mornings and allowing myself to say, I have changed and I enjoy my change. I embrace it! Being a mom and being in my 30’s has brought a new perspective in my life, one that I wish I would’ve had as a teenager. God had a plan throughout those dreaded teen years when I lacked so much confidence. Don’t get me wrong, I still have my ups and downs as a woman and that’s okay. I embrace each flaw and insecurity as gift; this allows me to relate to each of you on the same level. Remember, simply by allowing yourself to take that first step in whatever your insecurities may be, and embracing them, can be the most effective way of boosting that confidence you deserve.
Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern.com or visit her website and read her blogs at www. centsiblysouthern.com.
confident that you always look absolutely marvelous. 50
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New Park is becoming the best-selling new home community in the River Region! So it’s no wonder we’re growing. New Park is closer to the newest schools and the newest YMCA than any other new home neighborhood. Plus, we offer an incredible selection of beautiful, quality homes in all price ranges.
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For the latest neighborhood news and promotions, follow us on Facebook.®
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Remember when your babies were born? How all of a sudden your knowledge about diapers, choking hazards, and purchase options for snot-suckers was far more than you ever imagined? It’s an exciting time! It’s also a time that we are pushed and tested. Some mothers have never been so sleep-deprived. Others have never been so out-of-shape. Or overwhelmed by the support that comes to her door in the form of visitors to see her and the baby. And that’s just after the first one! As you move forward on your own parenthood journey, there’s a really good chance that someone you know and care about will have a baby. And because your mind is now focused on choosing a preschool or getting summer camp setup, you might need a little reminder about some things that you can do to help a new family settle into parenthood or a still-growing family adjust to their newest member. Here are seven ways you can help out a new family.
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Write down the birth story. Rare is the mother who does not want this documented! It is also rare that a new mother gets to do this right after her baby is born. She is usually preoccupied with the new love of her life! Falling in love can be timeconsuming. This is where you come in as the friend who wants to support her. Mom might not have the time or inclination to write down the details, but she will remember them more clearly in the first couple of weeks after delivery. This is the time to go and visit and bring a laptop, listen to the birth story, and type it up while she’s telling it to you. Including dads version is fun, and you can hold the baby after! Fold her laundry. Unload her dishwasher. Sweep her floor. If you know where her dishes go or where the broom
is stored, chances are you are a good enough friend to do these things without feeling uncomfortable. Don’t wait until she asks because she might not. While you’re sitting around chatting, your hands can be folding the basket of clothes or diapers. Or you can pick up the kitchen from two days worth of dishes. When you do these things you are giving your friend the gift of time, and for a new mother, nothing is more valuable.
Take the other kids to the park or out for a walk.
The older kids might be in the mood for a break from all the baby happenings. Fresh air is always a wonderful thing.
Help with posting and/or printing of photos. Sit-
ting at her computer and posting a few photos to her Facebook profile or printing out the pictures and getting them ready to mail is a gift you can give her that will certainly be appreciated. It means she can go to bed early tonight.
Sit with the baby so she can shower. Or journal. Or call her boss to check in after she’s been on leave for two months. She will feel like a new woman when she has a short break from the baby. New moms often don’t want to be separated from their baby for long periods of time, but they do recognize that smelling like soap is nice. And having a moment to make phone calls that have been lingering is nice, too. Start a small book club. (Or a movie group, foodie group, etc.) A large part of parenthood is about building
relationship with other parents. You are no longer “Jim” and “Sandra.” You are now “Henry’s Mom” or “Kelly’s Dad.” The kids will be involved in social activities and it’s important for parents to be, too. Having a social outlet to be a part of that welcomes children is a great way for parents to support each other and to have something fun to do!
Bring the new parents a picnic. There’s a good chance that some people will bring whole meals and that’s wonderful. You could step off the beaten path and grab a brick of yummy cheese, gourmet crackers, a couple of salads from a local deli, and a bottle of wine. Put it in a basket with a note inviting them to picnic and enjoy some grown-up conversation when the new baby is asleep. They’ll thank you for it! Try one of these or think of your own way to help. Helping doesn’t have to cost you a lot of money or take up a lot of your time, but it will be appreciated in the weeks and months to come, and gratitude is priceless. mp Sara Marchessault is a busy mom who values the people that help her so that she can be a better mom. When she isn’t playing with her kiddos, she is an author, coach, professor, and journal-writing expert.
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Winners of the 2014 Roxie Lancaster Children’s Holiday Writing Contest
The awards program for the 2014 Roxie Lancaster Children’s Holiday Writing Competition was held at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library on December 11. Students from public, private and home schools participated. Actress Greta Lambert from ASF read the winning entries. This event is sponsored annually by the Arts Council of Montgomery, Regions Bank, the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Friends of the Library. First-grade winners include 1st Place Joseph Johnston; 2nd Place Minnie Beck Jackson; 3rd Place Kayla Hora; and Honorable Mentions Miriam Young, Mark Frundeh and Lyndee Mass, all from Forest Avenue Academic Magnet Elementary School. Second-grade winners include 1st Place William Jemison; 2nd Place Raven Chapman; and 3rd Place Jamie Loftin, all from Forest Avenue; and Honorable Mentions Andrew Ewald from Eastwood Christian School; and Kate Ulrich and Bridget Dillow from Forest Avenue. Third-grade winners include 1st Place Alex Marks from Forest Avenue; 2nd Place Anna Beth Coon from Eastwood; 3rd Place Sophia Conoly from Eastwood; and Honorable Mentions Ruel Lee and Emily Cutler from Forest Avenue; and Ben Duggar from Eastwood. Fourth-grade winners include 1st Place Jack Whatley from Eastwood; 2nd Place Hannah Richardson from Forest Avenue; 3rd Place Neva Schoettker from Eastwood; and Honorable Mentions Makayla Webster, Anaiah Morrissette and Rylie Smith, all from Forest Avenue. Fifth-grade winners include 1st Place Mary Elisabeth Mauney from Eastwood; 2nd Place Kaleb Fuller from Forest Avenue; 3rd Place Amari Crittenden from Forest Avenue; and Honorable Mentions Chan Kim from Forest Avenue; Merritt Lee from Eastwood; and Bailey Williams from Holy Cross Episcopal School. Winning Schools were 3rd Place Trinity Presbyterian and Holy Cross with one entry apiece; 2nd Place Eastwood with eight; and 1st Place Forest Avenue with 21.
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First-place winners are shown above.
Second-place winners are shown above.
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Third-place winners are shown above.
Honorable mention winners are shown above and at right.
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To share news about your group’s special events, e-mail editor@montgomeryparents. com by the 12th of each month. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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Chung’s Tae Kwon Do of Tallassee Competes in National Tournament
Chung’s Tae Kwon Do & Fitness of Tallassee recently competed in a national tournament sponsored by the ATF (American Taekwondo Foundation) in Montgomery. Trophies were won in forms competitions, point sparring, and board breaking. Tae Kwon Do students range from the age of three through adult at the school. The competitions are based on age and experience of the student. Flexible year-round scheduling is offered at Chung’s Tae Kwon Do & Fitness, located at 304 King Street next door to the Tallassee Board of Education. Register anytime at (334) 799-1891. Tallassee’s Tae Kwon Do studio is owned and operated by Tracy Daar.
United Gymstars Collect for Animal Shelter at Holiday Party
The United Gymstars Holiday Party was held November 30 for the Compulsory, Optional and Boys teams. Joel Brewer was our DJ for the afternoon. The kids loved the Karaoke machine and a couple of hours of free play at the gym. Instead of swapping gifts, everyone was asked to bring a donation for the Montgomery Humane Society.
Montgomery Marathon Race Weekend
March 13-14 Registration and packet pick-up at The Riverwalk Stadium on Friday from noon-7 p.m. There is NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION and NO PACKET PICK-UP on Saturday! On Saturday at 7 a.m., The Montgomery Marathon and Half Marathon begin. At 7:30 a.m., The Hyundai Hope on Wheels 5K begins; at 7:35 a.m., the Publix Mayor’s Challenge begins. From 9 a.m.-2 p.m., there is the Taste of the South Food Festival, Post Race Party and Awards. Visit http://montgomerymarathon.com/ for details. 55
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While welcoming a new baby to the family is undoubtedly a joyous time, it is also a big adjustment which leaves many mothers feeling quite alone. Whether you are a newly minted mom, new to the community or feeling isolated for another reason, you may wonder how to connect with other moms. Parenting in isolation without moral support is lonely and emotionally debilitating. One of the most important ways to take care of yourself (and by extension your family) is to maintain a thriving social network that provides a healthy dose of physical, mental, and emotional support.
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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While social support and a healthy lifestyle contribute to overall happiness and well-being, depression is a serious illness requiring medical intervention. Seek help immediately if you have suicidal thoughts or if you experience chronic symptoms of depression. For a complete list of symptoms, check out the National Institute of Mental Health’s website, http://www.nimh.nih.gov.
Why support matters. According to a recent Gallup poll, stay-at-home-moms are at greater risk for depression than mothers who work. And, PostPartum Support International reports that one in eight women suffers from postpartum depression. Isolation can contribute to feelings of depression. Just a short burst of time spent with friends can boost a woman’s oxytocin levels, a natural hormone that decreases stress and anxiety. Join a mothers’ group. In the “Better Mom, Better World” research study commissioned on behalf of MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International by the Barna Group in 2010, researchers found that mothers believe they are more optimistic and resilient to life’s daily stresses and occasional crises when surrounded by a community of support. Moms’ groups come in a variety of sizes, philosophies and commitment levels. From faith-based organizations and moms of multiples’ clubs to attachment parent and stay-at-home only groups, options abound. Shop around to find a group that fits your personality and parenting style. Visit the group as a guest. Ask the membership director questions like: • How often does the group meet? • Does the group schedule moms-only events? • If mom-only activities are scheduled during the day, is childcare provided? • What types of play groups and activities does the group plan? • How does the group support members? (For example, educational speakers? Meals for moms of new babies?) Schedule activities. Losing yourself in the day-to-day rotation of feedings, naps, baths and playtime may be fine for a while. However, injecting your calendar with a sprinkling of activities throughout the week for both you and your child will energize you, give you something to look forward to 57
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S e r e n i t y Comfortable and quiet, we’re ready to listen.
P r e v e n t i o n Quick, never rushed. We respect your time.
E d u c a t i o n Woman to woman, we listen to you.
and help you feel connected to the world outside your home. Not sure where to begin? Check with your local library and bookstore for story hours and seek out “Mommy and Me” groups which run the gamut from physical activities to musical education. If you work full-time, talk to other working moms about meeting up at the park or indoor play area for a short weekend playdate. (Check out the New & Expectant Parents Guide immediately following this article for other ideas.) Click into social media. Still in your PJs at 3:30 in the afternoon after being up all night with your colicky baby or a sick child? During the toughest times of parenthood, we can find comfort knowing others can relate and that we aren’t alone. Thanks to social media like Facebook, Pinterest, MeetUp.com and mommy blogs, you can click into the land of the living without feeling the need to put clean clothes on or even brush your teeth!
Get active. Schedule time for an exercise class when your spouse is home or join a gym that offers quality childcare. Not only are fitness classes a fun way to get in shape, you’ll feel mentally refreshed, more patient, and more positive in general. And the more you go, the more you’ll get to know the other participants, which will make you feel more accountable about showing up. If a gym is out of the budget, find a friend or two to walk with a few times a week, either around a park, the neighborhood or a mall on inclement-weather days. As your children grow older, schedule time during or at the end of the walk for them to play at a park or indoor play area. Share your talents. You may feel tempted to push your personal interests aside due to overwhelming family demands. Negotiate time with your spouse to pursue your hobbies and other interests. Share your interests by inviting friends to join you for a gardening or cooking class or to start a book club. Create a calendar. You write everyone
7065 Sydney Curve
Montgomery, AL 36117
M - F 8:00am - 6:00pm S & S CLOSED facebook.com/AllMedforWomen
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Montgomery Parents I February 2015
else’s appointments on your calendar. Take yourself seriously, too. Honor your personal needs by making appointments with yourself, including fitness classes, walks with friends, moms’ meetings, dinner with a friend, classes you’ve signed up for, and so on. Sure, sometimes a sick child will throw a wrench into your plans, but isn’t flexibility one of the first lessons moms learn? When necessary, share your appointments with your spouse so he isn’t caught unaware. mp
Christa Melnyk Hines is a freelance journalist, mom of two, and author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life. 58
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TAKE STEPS TO STOP BREAST CANCER.
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Saturday April 18, 2015
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BENEFITING THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
SATURDAY
APRIL 18
2015
ed to
MCDONALD’S PROUDLY PRESENTS
Kids Dash
THE WITH RONALD MCDONALD & THE MONTGOMERY BISCUITS’ BIG MO beginning at 9:45am in
front of the Riverwalk Amphitheater stage. For only $10, all Kids Dash participants (3-8 years old) will receive a Kids Dash t-shirt, medal and other special goodies!
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for more info and to register now, visit WalkofLife2015.org
a o a ne es-
FOR RACE INFO EMAIL
WALKOFLIFE@JOYTOLIFE.ORG O R C A L L 334-284-5433 proud 2015 sponsors of the Joy to Life Foundation
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Namedropper / Storkland
7107 Eastchase Parkway, 277.7118 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.
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 www. patty-cakes.com.
Sweet Tea
Baby Gap
620 Oliver Road, 270.2033 Providing quality custom clothing that children love to wear. Unique clothing for children. We do not have a store front but please visit us on Facebook at Sweet Tea Children’s Clothing to shop our sales.
7064 Eastchase Parkway, 395.5703 Sweet knit booties, cozy bundlers and adorable extras for that special baby. Wide selection for infants and toddlers. www.gap.com
The Shoppes at My Kids Attic
Retail-Montgomery
Barb’s on Mulberry 1923 Mulberry Street, 269.2272 Children’s fashions, Original Art, Gifts and Toys Please visit us at www.barbsonmulberry.
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
Children’s Place 7044 Eastchase Parkway, 215.8888 Anything to cover your newborn, baby girl or baby boy. Large selection of fashionable clothing for your little one. www.childrensplace.com Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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
Babies R Us (inside Toys R Us) 5484 Atlanta Highway, 272.6706 Large selection of baby clothes, baby accessories, bedding, baby furniture and equipment. www.toyrus.com
Retail-Prattville/ Millbrook Fanci Free
146 W Main Street, Prattville, 358.1524 Wide selection of children’s clothing, accessories 60
and monogramming. Please visit us on Facebook under Fanci Free Boutique.
Once and Again
4141 Highway 14, Millbrook, 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.
Maternity Motherhood Maternity
7052 Eastchase Parkway, 409.0969 We offer a large selection of maternity clothes at affordable prices. Something for every occasion. www.motherhood.com
Once and Again
4141 Highway 14, Millbrook, 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.
Prenatal Physicians Central Alabama Ob-Gyn Associates PA 265.3543 or 215.3400 2024 Chestnut Street, Montgomery and 440-B St. Lukes Dr., Montgomery Roger S. Duggar, M.D.; Christopher R. Duggar, M.D.; Edward W. Reed, M.D. Specialize in Gynecology & Obstetrics, Female Infertility and Surgery
Dent Williams, M.D.
409.9550 7040 Sydney Curve, Montgomery Specializes in Obstetrics, including 4-Dimensional Ultrasound Technology, Gynecology and Infertility.
Jason Gentry, M.D. FACOG
263.3630 1758 Park Place #201, Montgomery Services offered: Gynecology & Obstetrics, Infertility and Low/High Risk
Henry Johnson, M.D. FACOG
288.3400 or 288.2100 2601 Woodley Park Drive, Montgomery Services offered: Gynecology & Obstetrics
David Kouri, M.D. FACOG
263.3630 1758 Park Place #201, Montgomery Services offered: Gynecology & Obstetrics, Infertility and Low/High Risk www.montgomeryparents.com
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Julian McIntyre, M.D
288.3400 2601 Woodley Park Drive, Montgomery 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 Primary Care 356.4873 8134 Seaton Place, Montgomery Dr. Roosevelt McCorvey Services offered: Gynecology & Obstetrics
Ob/Gyn Associates of Montgomery PC 279.9333 (for both locations) 495 Taylor Rd., Montgomery 630 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville 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; Michele Conner, M.D.; Robert Beaird, M.D.; Vicki
Brooks, CNM; Lisa Blount, CNM; Melissa Hatter, CNM; Tracey Mendelsohn, CRNP; Della Fuller, CRNP. Specialize in Gynecology, Obstetrics, 4-D Ultrasound and High Risk/Low Risk pregnancy. www.obgynmontgomery.com
Glen Saucer, M.D. FACOG
Physicians for Women
263.3630 1758 Park Place #201, Montgomery Services offered: Gynecology & Obstetrics, Infertility and Low/High Risk
290.4200 287 Mitylene Park Drive, Montgomery 491.4200 635 McQueen Smith Rd., Prattville R.M. Garrard, M.D., FACOG; Byron P Lawhon, M.D., FACOG; Winston M Ashurst, M.D., FACOG; William A Newman III, M.D., FACOG; Dr. Jennifer J Logan; McCain Ashurst II, M.D., Martha Eskridge, CRNP Gynecology & Obstetrics, Female Infertility and Surgery; www.mypfw.com
River Region ObGyn 263.3630 1758 Park Place, Montgomery Dr. Jason K Gentry, Dr. Kouri and Dr. Whittington Obstetrics, Gynecology www.riverregionobgyn.com
264.2422 1722 Pine Street, Montgomery Services offer in Gynecology & Obstetrics
Kim Whittington, M.D. FACOG
Pediatric CareMontgomery Alabama Neonatal Medicine PC
(334) 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., Montgomery Dr. Francisco Huidor, M.D.; Dr. Michael Doyle,
PA
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M.D.; Dr. Nicole Sheffield, M.D.; Nicole Percival, C.R.N.P. Diagnose and treat children for illnesses, injuries, conditions and developmental issues. www.zeldapeds.com
Provide quality health care for sick visits, newborn care, well child visits, immunizations and more.
Montgomery Pediatric Associates PA
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
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 Slip” service and a prescription line. www.mykidsdr.com ‘
Dr. Gillis Payne 244.7209 7006 Fulton Court
Pediatric Healthcare
Physician’s to Children
293.5033 470 Taylor Rd., Suite 210 J. Robert Beshear, M.D., Cheryl Fekete, M.D., Alicia Hughes, M.D. and Dina Winston, 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.
Professional Pediatrics
271.5959 4154 Carmichael Rd. Dr. C Allen White, Dr. Robert L. Coggin, Dr.
David W. Drennen, Dr. Malissa K. Hoy, D.O., and Dr. Karen Doles 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
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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
Pediatric Care-Prattville Partners in Pediatrics 272.1799
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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 Slip” service and a prescription line. www.mykidsdr.com
Prattville Pediatric Associates
361.7811 645 McQueen Smith Rd. N, Prattville John Sumners, M.D., James Rabon, M.D., Daria Anagnos, M.D., Provide sick and well child visits, immunizations, child development, sports screenings and more.
Pediatric CareWetumpka 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 and Midwives Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.
782.9816 Antepartum doula services. For more information please call Tangela Boyd at 334-783-9816 or visit www.mommymilkandmeinc.com.
Ob/Gyn Associates of Montgomery PC 279.9333 495 Taylor Rd. Midwives: Vicki Brooks and Lisa Blount www.obgynmontgomery.com
Lactation Consultants Baptist Medical Center South
286.2829 Offers breast feeding classes, Information on pump rentals and Lactation consultants. 63
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Baptist Medical Center East
244.8360 Offers breast feeding classes, Information on pump rentals and Lactation consultants.
Jackson Hospital Mom & Baby Center 1725 Pine Street, 293.8600 Offers breast feeding classes and pump rental information.
Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.
334-531-0145 Provides breastfeeding education, antepartum doula services, childbirth education, and Happiest Baby on the Block classes. Handmade breastfeeding greeting cards and breast pump rental services also available. Post Partum doula and Happy Baby Education services offered. For more information call Tangela Boyd at 334-5310145 or visit www.mommymilkandmeinc.com.
Parenting Programs Alabama Department of Public Health
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
273.4445 Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp: An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. This class is $50 per couple. Space limited. Registration is required. Childbirth Preparation Class: this comprehensive
four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, Cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. This class is $50 per couple. Space is limited. Registration is required. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class: Class provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding. Fee for class Infant Safety/CPR Class: is designed to help parents create a safe environment for their child. Fee for class Maternity Area Tour, Baptist Medical Center East: A tour of the Labor and delivery area and Recovery, Postpartum and Nursery Areas. 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, appearance and sleep patterns. Partners are encouraged to attend. This class is $15 per person. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please call 273.4445 for more information.
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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 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 Visit www.Jackson.org/classes or call 293.8497.
La Leche League of Montgomery
6880 Winton Blount Blvd. (East Montgomery Imaging Center) Meets 3rd Friday of the month at 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, babies and children are welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please visit our facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LLL.Montgomery.AL.
Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.
334-531-0145 Provides breastfeeding education, antepartum doula services, childbirth education, and Happiest Baby on the Block classes. Handmade breastfeeding greeting cards and breast pump rental services also available. Post Partum doula and Happy Baby Education services offered. For more information please call Tangela Boyd at 334-531-0145or visit www.mommymilkandmeinc.com
The Parenting Assistance Line (PAL)
1(866) 962.3030. http://www.pal.ua.edu/index2.php 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. Available from 8:00am-8:00pm Monday- Friday.
Infant Classes and Play Groups Kindermusik of Montgomery @ First Baptist Church
271.3264 Music and Movement classes for children Newborn -5 years. Visit www.kindermusik.com. 65
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YMCA Tot Swim classes
2435 Bell Rd., 271.4343 3407 Pelzer, 272.3390 www.ymcamontgomery.org 6 months to 3 years; Parents and tot swim classes offered year round.
Support Services Autauga County Family Support Center
“Helping Families Help Themselves” 13 W. Main Street, Prattville 334.361.4703 Including a program to educate and prevent shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. Made possible by Ala. Dept. of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention. Visit www.ctf.alabama.gov.
Footprints Ministry
A 501(C) 3 organization that assists families 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.
Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO), 328.1202
Halo offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. 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.
See our Family Calendar/Support Group section for Parent Support Groups in the River Region.
Consignment Sales Children’s Clothing Exchange
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Sale February 6-11. Consignment sale held twice a year with quality items at bargain prices. Children’s used clothing, furniture, equipment, toys and accessories. www.childrensclothingexchange.com
Doodlebugs
546.4722; February 28 – March 5 Seasonal consignment sale featuring gently worn children’s clothing, toys, baby equipment and so much more! www.doodlebugs-kids.com
Kids Carousel
272.5263; March 7-14 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
My Kids Attic
270.1456; February 7-14; www.mykidsattic.biz 401 Coliseum Blvd (Eastbrook Shopping Center) Children’s clothing, toys, furniture, learning aids and everything you need for the little one. mp
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A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior.
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Any athlete with a suspected concussion: l Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY l Should be urgently assessed medically l Should not be left alone l Should not drive a motor vehicle
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In a medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER
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Bradford Health Services ROAD MAP TO ADOLESCENT RECOVERY
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Addiction is not an easy road for adults and can be even more difficult for teenagers. Drug and alcohol dependency can take adolescents away from their families, friends, and a successful future. Bradford Health Services has guided young people and their families
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Armory Athletics Hosts Local Gymnastics Meet
Family Karate News
The students at Family Karate Center set their goals for 2015 and said them out loud to their parents after their color belt testing in January. The 2-4 year old Tiny Tigers have goals of learning how to balance better with their kicks and one young boy is learning Spanish with his older sister. The 5-7 year old Little Dragons wish to get their training wheels off their bikes this year, and lose their first tooth! The 8-11 year olds have goals of all As and Bs all year, as many are in magnet schools. They also want to go to higher levels with their video games, and work toward their Jr. Black Belt. A SWAT (Student Winning Attitude Team) member said she wanted to learn to ride horses this year and learn Chinese, as her best friend is Chinese. The adult class has goals to take off the pounds they put on over Christmas, and they have added more training days to their fitness goals in class. Call 220-9319 today to help your child set his 2015 goals for better health and self-defense!
Hoops and Dreams Unity Game
March 5 * 6-9 p.m. Featuring legendary Globetrotter Larry “Gator” Rivers and Friends at Carver High School. Celebrity basketball game reflecting on sports in the movement. Admission is $8 for adults $3 for students. For more info, call (334) 296-3024 or visit http://dreammarcheson.com.
Tonya Speed Dancers Entertain Residents
Some little dancers from Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection spread Christmas cheer by dancing at a local assisted living facility. They performed at The Belmont and then visited with the residents and passed out candy. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
Armory Athletics hosted the Blue Grey gymnastics meet on the weekend of November 21-23. Teams from all over Alabama and surrounding states competed at the Cramton Bowl Mutiplex. The Armory fielded 13 teams in this year’s meet and had great overall success. Five teams won their respective divisions, and 15 individual gymnasts finished first all around. In individual event competition Armory gymnasts achieved 87 first-place finishes. Women’s team winners are listed below. Men’s team winners ran in the January edition. Level 2 women’s vault winners are Harmony Nelson and Emmy Phung (1st), and Amber Johnson and Hailey McLaughlin (3rd). Level 2 uneven bar winners are Nelson (1st), Johnson (2nd), and Kelsey Bennett (3rd). Level 2 balance beam winners are Nelson and Phung (1st), and Shannon Kille (2nd). Level 2 floor exercise winners are Karlie Gill (2nd) and Johnson (1st). Nelson and Johnson placed 1st all around. Phung placed 3rd all around. Nelson was the Grand Champion of her session with an all around score of 37.025. Level 2 women’s team finished second. Level 3 women’s vault winners are Daniella George and Bethany Norwood (1st), Courtenee Webster (2nd) and Kennedy Robinson (3rd). Level 3 uneven bar winners are Meagan Crum (1st), Jace Holmes and George (2nd), and Amy Treloar (3rd). Level 3 balance beam winners are George (1st), Robinson and Zoe Watkins (2nd), and Janie Spence (3rd). Level 3 floor exercise winners are George (1st), Watkins (2nd), and Norwood and Robinson (3rd). George placed 1st all around. Crum, Norwood, Watkins and Webster placed 3rd all around. George was the Grand Champion of her session with a score of 38.025. Level 3 women’s team finished second. Level 4 women’s vault winners are Madeline Dillow (2nd), and Baylie Grace Long and Alexa Gonzolez (3rd). Level 3 uneven bar winners are Madeline Dillow and Isabella Carver (1st), and Gonzolez (3rd). Balance Beam winners are Madalyn Barfield and Gonzolez (1st). Floor exercise winners are Madeline Dillow (1st), Gonzolez (2nd), and Grace Dillow (3rd). Madeline Dillow placed 1st all around. Gonzolez placed 2nd all around. Level 4 women’s team finished second. Level 6 women’s vault winners are Borden Lash, Anna Lei Singleton and Haley Wren (1st); Emelea Bostic and Samantha Hodge (2nd); and Julianna Pope, Kassidy Roberts and Miquela Borth (3rd). Level 6 uneven bar winners are Madison Kille and Hodge (1st); Singleton, Lash and Wren (2nd); and Pope, Bostic, Tehya Luhan and Jordan Rizzuto (3rd). Balance beam winners are Anniston Kelly, Kille and Rizzuto (1st); Lash, Lujan and Hodge (2nd); and Bostic (3rd). Level 6 floor exercise winners are Lash, Kille and Hodge (1st); Bostic and Wren (2nd); and Landyn Williams, Singleton and Borth. Lash, Kille and Hodge placed 1st all around; Singleton and Rizzuto placed 2nd all around; and Williams, Bostic and Wren placed 3rd all around. Kille was the Grand Champion of her session with a score of 37.350. Level 6 women’s team finished first. Level 7 women’s vault winners are Kerry Straw, Kristen Lemaster and Aiden Clark (2nd). Level 7 uneven bar winners are Clark (1st) and Lemaster (2nd). Level 7 balance beam winner is Clark (1st). Floor exercise winners are Straw and Clark (2nd), and Annesely Sefton (3rd). Lemaster and Clark placed 3rd all around. Level 7 women’s team finished third. Level 8 women’s vault winners are Logan Womack and Morgan Ward (1st); Emma Broach and Alexandra DeVos (2nd); and Carsyn Jones (3rd). Level 8 uneven bar winners are Womack and Ward (1st); Broach and DeVos (2nd); and Jones (3rd). Level 8 balance beam winners are Womack and Ward (1st); and Jones, Broach and DeVos (2nd). Level 8 floor exercise winners are Jones, Womack and Ward (1st); DeVos (2nd); and Broach (3rd). Womack and Ward placed 1st all around. Jones, Broach and DeVos placed 2nd all around. Level 8 women’s team finished first. Level 9 women’s winner is Jermenee Taylor. She placed 1st on vault, 1st on uneven bars, 1st on floor exercise, and 1st on balance beam. She placed 1st all around and was the grand champion of her session with a score of 34.150. 68
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Wetumpka Scouts Hold Canned Food Drive
Wetumpka’s Cub Scout Pack 50 held its annual Scouting for Food canned food drive in November. Several scouts collected money and nonperishable food items outside of local retailers. Total monetary donations were in excess of $1,000 and were presented to Larry Dozier, a representative of the Elmore County Food Pantry, in December. The Scouts also collected 166 pounds of food. Pack 50 Cub Scouts are shown with Larry Dozier.
Success Unlimited Hosts Women’s Conference
Success Unlimited Academy will host its first Women’s Conference February 20 and 21 in its new worship center located at 4500 Vaughn Road. The “Bless Your Heart” conference will be a time of fellowship, Bible study, prayer, and laughter. Guest speakers are Tanya McLemore and Benita Edwards. Tickets are $25 for the two-day event or $20 for groups of 10 or more. Hours are 7-9:30 p.m. February 20 and 9 a.m.-noon February 21. You can purchase tickets by calling the school at (334) 2130803 or (334) 676-1629. “This event is one you will not want to miss,” said Julie Beard, event planner and activities director for the school. For more information, e-mail blessyourheart@ suacademy.com.
Pink ‘n’ Pearls Bake For Salvation Army
Pink ‘n’ Pearl Girls put their little busy hands to work by baking and bagging dozens of homemade cookies to be delivered to the Salvation Army. The cookies will be served as dessert during meal time to families that are residents at the center.
Fountain City Arts Festival
Saturday, March 28 * 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Pratt Park in historic downtown Prattville. Art, music, poetry, theatre, children’s projects and more. For more info or a vendor application, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.
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A Page in a Book The Book of Grumpy We all have our moments when non-specific anger or frustration settles into a bad case of the grumpy. Kids are especially vulnerable to the triggers that can create a bubble of cranky that seems unresolvable. But often there’s an underlying issue that, once discovered, can help move a black mood back into the light. The following titles all feature the effects of grumpy behavior and offer some insights that may help parents and children find new ways to turn a grumpy frown upside down.
The Grudge Keeper
by Mara Rockliff, Illustrated by Eliza Wheeler (Peachtree) At first glance, everything in the town of Bonnyripple seems bright and idyllic. But beneath the sunny exterior, an understory of old harms, grudges and noses out of joint is building to capacity. The source of the build-up is in the house of the Grudge Keeper who collects the notes and letters in which townsfolk outline their grudges against friends and neighbors. But when a windy storm blows through the Grudge Keeper’s house and airs all the townsfolks’ grievances, the people of Bonnyripple get a chance to mend fences and put their grudges behind them. Lively illustrations and clever wordplay support the positive effects of communication and forgiveness in a thought-provoking exposition of the harm caused by holding a grudge.
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Pardon Me!
by Daniel Miyares (Simon & Schuster) Enjoying the solitude of a lonely island in the middle of the swamp, one yellow bird’s peaceful repose quickly evaporates as other residents discover his patch of dry land. The bird’s expression becomes more and more sour as his personal space is invaded by an egret, a frog and then a turtle, who all offer a “Pardon Me!’ as they jostle for room. The bird’s protests escalate until a final interloper triggers a rude outburst from the bird who starts shouting at them all to leave. But he’s so busy scolding the others away that he fails to hear an important warning about his treasured perch. Despite the “final” outcome for the crabby bird, there’s a toothsome bit of schadenfreude in the last “Pardon Me!”
The Very Cranky Bear
by Nick Bland (Orchard/Scholastic) It’s a rainy day in the jungle when the lion, moose, zebra and sheep settle into a dry cave for a friendly game of cards. But they quickly learn they are not alone as a very cranky bear, roused from his sleep, chases them back into the rain. As they discuss ways to make the bear happy, each friend offers his best attributes as possible olive branches. The lion is convinced the bear just needs a glorious mane. Splendid antlers and lovely stripes are recommended as offerings from the moose and zebra respectively. Only the plain sheep seems to have nothing fancy to contribute. But when the elegant gifts are angrily rejected by the bear, only the sheep takes time to inquire about what the bear wants most, paving the way for everyone to share the shelter during the rain. Gently suggesting that communication is a good first step toward solving a case of the grumpy, this title shares a soft solution for a very crank bear!
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Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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“They must still be dating,” my friend whispered to me. As we stood shivering at my son’s soccer game, my brother-in-law and his fiancee cuddled together sharing a warm blanket and a chair. “No married couple would be that affection-
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the demands of young parenthood? The truth is, 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.”
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Affection in the midst of parenthood
Many parents find that affection for each other can get lost in the mind-numbing whirlwind of sleeplessness 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.
“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 Dr. Bella Sood, division chair of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. “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 affectionate homes and others simply aren’t Why affection is healthy wired to display warmth toward others, “Couples believe affection is simply including the ones they love the most. an inspired by-product of a feeling,” De“Understand the uniqueness and verich says. “However, it can be the other differences in the other person without being judgmental about that,” Affection and intimacy won’t necessarily Sood says. But that resolve deeper, underlying issues in a doesn’t mean marriage. Seek marital counseling if you you can’t work on meeting your find your relationship at a crossroads. spouse’s needs For more information, check out the for affection. Recall what The 5 Love Languages, by Gary Chapman. attracted the two of you in the first place. way around. Love, connectedness, and Physical touch and tenderness toward caring can be sparked by physical touch.” each other can reaffirm your love and While excessive public displays of create instant connectedness. intimacy can cause discomfort for those “We forget that we have control over around you--including your kids--showing many things that go on in our lives if we are warmth toward one another gives children willing to make that sacrifice,” Sood says. a sense of well-being, that all is well in “And why are we willing to make that sacritheir family unit. fice? Because we love that person.” mp
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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 of 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”
Freelance writer, Christa Melnyk Hines, and her husband of 17 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.
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Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing
Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Grandma’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. This is a general overview of Alabama history in our museum galleries led by one of our staff or experienced docents. Stay tuned for upcoming events from the Archives, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/ Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac. org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 4579254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. Central Alabama Contra Dancers Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and entire families are welcome. All levels of experience - including no experience. Dancing is on 1st and 3rd Fridays from 7-9 p.m. at the MASDA building, 2200 Popular St. For more info, visit www.contralines.com or email info@contralines.com. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a
musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 2421861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info
February2015 Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com.
Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www. blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown. com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www. touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/ person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com
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Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next class is February 18 from 10:30-11 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa. org for more info.
Classes
Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Caring For Your Newborn Helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Partners are encouraged to attend. This class is $15 per person. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please call (334) 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education.Baptist Medical Center East. $50 fee per couple. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org to schedule your class.
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Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical Center East. $50 fee per couple. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. Content includes: Traffic Light Eating, Brainy Breakfasts, the Truth about Fats, Powering up with Protein and Play, and more! The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities, and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more information, contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. $10 fee per person. Call 2734445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Baptist Medical Center East. Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on the second Saturday of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Math & Science for Preschoolers Classes for “3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science)” are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children ages 3-5 will learn math and science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. long and $8/week. Join us at 1585 E Main St, Prattville (next to Pri-Med), to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook for times. To register or for more info, contact Susan Trombley at 321blasttimes@outlook.com or (334) 380-1879. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Fun, interactive 3-week series of nutrition classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; Optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; Transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more information contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook - www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Provides expectant mothers information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing
lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. $15 fee per couple.Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Slow Flow Yoga Lunchtime Yoga Classes at Old Alabama Town. Take a break from your computer desk and relieve your body of all that stress with some slow flow yoga! Instructor Juliet Thomas provides downtown workers with a convenient way to stretch and reenergize before going back into the office. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to 310 N. Hull Street (Lucas Tavern) and we will direct you to a place to change and set up your mat. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days) Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. Pay by cash or check. Make checks payable to Juliet Thomas. Blocks will be provided. Avoid a big meal before class. Please arrive 5-10 minutes early. Wear comfortable clothing, something to easily move around in. Mats and props are provided if needed, although students may prefer their own mat after a few yoga sessions. Bring water to hydrate on your walk back to the office! No sugary drinks or other food allowed. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com
Services
American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/ patients_volunteers.html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers
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have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.
Support Groups Adoption Support
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Hannah Taylor at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@ childrensaid.org Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.
Cancer Support
American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore, Autauga, & Macon Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery office at 6128162 or call 1-800-ACS-2345 and you will be connected to the Montgomery office.** Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call Luella Giles at 612-8162 for more info. Man to Man is an American Cancer Society support group for men who are battling or have survived prostate cancer. It offers them education, discussion and support. Please call for next meeting dates at the American Cancer Society Office in Montgomery. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. College scholarships to cancer survivors Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through www.cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345 General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends.
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Calendar/Support Groups For more info, call 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.
Divorce Support
DivorceCare will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. You will experience the GriefShare group as an oasis in the midst of a difficult season of your life. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays starting August 22 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K), Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. This group is for children ages 5 and up and helps children of all ages heal from the pain of their parents’ separation and divorce. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Call (334) 495-6368. Divorce Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info.
Financial Support
Financial Peace University will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. It is a biblical, practical and workable plan for your money. Through video teaching, group discussion and interactive small group activities, you will learn God’s way to handle finances. This phenomenal plan will show you how to get rid of debt, manage your money, spend and save wisely and much more. Financial Peace University will be led by Bill Fiken. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.
Gambling Support
Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420
Grief Support
Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 284-2721. We will also collect Toys for Tots for anyone interested in participating. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 2728622 for more info. GriefShare will begin meeting weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. You will find a warm, caring environment for your journey through grief and loss. You will not be left alone to deal with all the grief issues in your life. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. GriefShare, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. HOM provides quality palliative care to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in our community affected by terminal illness; maintains the highest ethical standards; and educates the community about the hospice concept and end-of-life issues. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen. org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Our purpose is to glorify God as we serve Him in comforting and encouraging each other in our grief and growth.
Homeschool Support
ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy,
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February2015 Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com
Illness Support
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. Each participant needs to bring a sack lunch. On the first Thursday of each month, the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (This group will NOT meet in January due to New Year’s Day.) For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA. Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. It will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. This Christ-centered recovery will provide a safe place to share and to heal. You will also experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” will be led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance, Room 3101 at Frazer UMC, 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 2728622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com. (This group will NOT meet at Frazer in January due to New Year’s Day.) Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 2019638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChase-NE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www. glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30
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p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. This group is just getting started so a specific meeting time has not been set yet. Location will be 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 3249568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@ yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org. Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.
Parent Support
D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his daughter Erin. It gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. All fathers in the River Region are invited to bring their daughters to the library to read, laugh and have fun. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more information, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (569-1500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_ heather@yahoo.com). Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@ frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http:// montgomerymultiplesclub.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, need a little break? MOPS is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.,
September through May. Visit www.montgomeryfbc. org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.
Pregnancy Loss/Infertility
Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information.
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Single Parents Support
Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook—SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids) for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.
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Calendar/Support Groups Special Needs Support
Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www. montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more information, contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.
Teens/Families Support
Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info! “Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way.
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Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m. “Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity! “Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children. “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating. “Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher! Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot! You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or email trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.
This Month Tuesday, February 3
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Tuesday at Kazoo Toys. Children, ages 3-2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 minutes. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 4:45 pm, to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook. com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register.
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February2015 Wednesday, February 4
Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. The Capital City Master Gardener Association provides a monthly educational series called “Lunch and Learn,” on a variety of gardening topics in a classroom setting. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided. Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Wednesday at Prattville Wesleyan Preschool. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879.
Thursday, February 5
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Thursday at Montessori at Hampstead. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879. Karren Pell & the Old Alabama Town Crue 7 p.m. The Old Church on Columbus St. Free to the public, donations accepted. Wetumpka Depot Presents I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change -- Through February 14 7:30 performances Thursdays through Saturdays except for a 2 p.m. matinee February 8. A musical comedy with lyrics by Joe DiPietro and music by Jimmy Roberts, this is the second-longest running Off Broadway musical. It is locally directed by Kristy Meanor, with Marilyn Swears as music director. For more info and tickets, visit www. wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.
Friday, February 6
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held one Friday a month at Glynwood Childcare Ministries in Prattville. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request more info. Jerry Seinfeld Live at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre 7:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $47. For more info, visit www.foxtheatre.org or call (855) 285-8499.
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Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. ‘Better Together’ Marriage Conference Also February 7 Hosted by Landmark Church of Christ, Christ Community Church, and Evangel Church. Dr. Greg & Erin Smalley, with Focus on the Family, will be featured speakers at the conference. Together, the Smalleys have led marriage seminars around the world and trained pastors, professionals and leaders how to effectively work with married and engaged couples. Friday night sessions will be held at Christ Community Church on Ryan Road from 7-9 p.m., with the after party starting at 9. (Think great date night.) Saturday sessions are from 9 am.-12:30 p.m., with lunch provided at Landmark Church. Cost is $30 per couple, $15 for singles. Register at: www.bettertogether.life. Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also February 20 & 27 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/child. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walk-ins welcome (until maximum capacity is reached). **Must have at least 20 people signed up ahead of time or it will be cancelled.** Visit www. unitedgymstarsandcheer.com for more info. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also Meets February 20 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment
activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com. Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museum Opens Wetumpka. Open Fridays-Saturdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays noon-5 p.m. through June. More than 20 acres of year-round floral beauty and classical sculpture, including new statuary honoring olympic heroes. Take a stroll through the outdoor gardens and experience beautiful flowers blooming throughout each season. Tours are available for groups of 20 or more. For more info, call (334) 263-5713 or visit www.jasminehill.org/.
Saturday, February 7
AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “Learn How to Build a Heart Box.” In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free. Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents the A Capella Group BLEND 7:30 p.m. Blend brings back those fun-loving memories with music from the ‘50s and ‘60s era all with a twist of fun! Four young men take the stage to present non-stop family entertainment from the start of their show till the end. During this Branson-style variety show, Blend takes the audience on a journey with hits like “I Wonder Why,” “My Girl” and “Blue Moon.” You’ll never know who
you will see in Blend’s show....Elvis.....Duke of Earl.... Dixie Cups....! If laughter is what you seek, you’ll find it when Blend presents these timeless classics in their own comical way. Tickets are $20 for VIP Tickets (1st two rows - very limited availability) General admission $15. For tickets or more info, visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317. Join us on Facebook. 7th Annual Valentine of the River Region Pageant St. Joseph’s Church Community Hall, located at 511 Hwy. 31 North., in Prattville. This pageant series is for girls who live in Alabama, age 12 months to 18 years, with seven age categories: Baby Miss (12 months to 23 mos.) Tiny Miss (24-35 mos.), Petite Miss (3-5 yrs.), Little Miss (6-9 yrs.), Pre-Teen Miss (10-13 yrs.), Jr. Teen (13-15 yrs.) and Teen Miss (15-18 yrs.). The pageant will begin at 2:30 p.m. Every contestant wins a participation crown. A People’s Choice crown will also be awarded in each age category. Collect votes from family and friends at $1 per vote for the contestant. Votes will be collected at and throughout the pageant. No double crown winners. The money collected benefits Children’s Miracle Network. Check-in opens at 1:30 p.m. for all age categories. The entry fee for the event is $35. Optional categories are from $5 to $15 per category. Checks should be made payable to: Sterling Miss Pageants, P.O. Box 763, Montgomery, AL 36102. For more info, applications and the Frequently Asked Question fact sheet, visit www. SterlingMiss.org or call 313-5444. Also like the Sterling Miss Christmas Pageant page on Facebook to get all the latest information. Millbrook Revelers Host Annual Mardi Gras Parade & Festival Village Green Park in Millbrook beginning at 9 a.m. with the parade starting at NOON sharp. More than 60 vendors from all over the South will offer lots of different food and fun for everyone. Anyone can enter the parade: just visit www.millbrookrevelers.org for entry information. Junior League Montgomery Mardi Gras 10K & 5K Ready. Set. Geaux! This special event will feature a 10K course beginning at Edward Thompson Ball Fields located at 1655 Ray Thorington Road, Montgomery. The route is fast and a flat out and back course, running from Edward Thompson Ball Fields and up and down
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Calendar/Support Groups Park Crossing Road. Rain or Shine. A Wheelchair/Adaptive Division is available, as well as a 5K option. The event is family friendly including a visit from The Big Green Bus for the children. 10K Race Entry Fee is $35 on or before February 4; late registration February 5-7 is $40; start time – 8 a.m. (Adaptive/Wheelchair Division starts at 7:55 a.m.) 5K Race Entry Fee is $30 on or before February 4; late registration February 5-7 is $35; start time – 8:05 a.m. Supporters who do not participate in the race can register as “The Big Easy” for $35. For more details and registration information, visit www.jlmontgomery.org. You may also call (334) 288-8816 or e-mail information@jlmontgomery.org.
Tuesday, February 10
VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead community. Look for a big red barn! For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth.org or visit www. facebook.com/VegOutMontgomery.
Wednesday, February 11
Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. This month’s topic is Holiday Deocrating with Natural Materials. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more information, call the ACES office at 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.
Thursday, February 12
Capri Classics Presents Sabrina 7:30 p.m. This classic with Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn and William Holden tells the story of how a playboy becomes interested in the daughter of his family’s chauffeur. But it’s his more serious brother who would be the better man for her. For info, visit www.capritheatre.org.
Red Door Theatre Presents A Southern Exposure Through February 14; also February 21-22 Downtown Union Springs. Written by Kelley Kingston-Strayer and directed by Tom Salter. All performances at 7:30 except February 22 at 2:30 p.m. While away an hour or two in a Kentucky kitchen sipping coffee with Callie Belle Hurt’s family— Hattie, her Bible-carrying grandmother with a cast-iron will; Ida Mae, a pushy card shark; and Mattie, a wig-wearing, Oprah-watching aunt. Raised by Hattie, Callie Belle stuns her grandmother and her two eccentric, doting aunts when she announces that she’s fallen in love and is moving to New York City. Tickets may be obtained by calling (334) 738-8687 or visiting www.reddoortheatre.org. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Pastime Through February 22 Written and directed by Greg Thornton, Pastime is set in the late 1980s in a large middle-class, suburban/metropolitan neighborhood near New York City. It tells the story of a close-knit family family dealing with the loss of the father and the subsequent battle over keeping the family house. Join us for the birth of this new play! *Recommended for ages 14 and above.* Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday. Call (334) 2621530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org to get tickets. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents Almost, Maine Through February 14; Also February 19-21 & 26-28 Play written by John Cariani, comprising nine short plays that explore love and loss in a remote, mythical almosttown called Almost, Maine. Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $26.50 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $21.50. Reservations must be paid in advance. To make reservations or for more information, call 877840-0457 or visit http://www.ticketforce.com/.
Friday, February 13
Cirque D’Or at the MPAC 7:30 p.m. With more than 30 performers from around the world, a new generation of Cirque shows is coming to
February2015 Montgomery. Featuring a cast of world-champion acrobats, contortionists, and aerial artists from around the world, this award-winning spectacle will leave you breathless. Cirque D’Or is perfect for the entire family. This amazing show brings you beautiful costumes, dynamic sound and lighting, and great talent assembled on one stage. This show is not affiliated with Cirque Du Soleil. Tickets begin at $27. Call 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org. 3rd Annual Sweetheart Heritage Celebration 7-10 p.m. RSA Activity Center. This is a celebration of God’s love and a celebration of Black History, with an emphasis on the rich heritage of a people and their contributions to humanity. It is also a celebration of loving relationships and the power of love. This celebration includes dinner, music, entertainment and prizes along with special recognition for those who come to celebrate their love for one another during this Valentine’s weekend. As a highlight of the evening, we will honor those in our community with the following awards: The Champion of Social Justice Award, The Legendary Heritage Award, The Youth Empowerment Award and The Faithful Service Award. For more info, visit www.dexterkingmemorial.org/events/3rd-annual-sweetheart-heritage-celebration/.
Saturday, February 14
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/even ts/1374454692792666/?source=1. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic 10 a.m. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “Sweetheart Picture Holder.” Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. Fifth Annual Alabama Nature Center Critter Crawl This year, the Critter Crawl will feature 5K and 10K Trail
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Runs beginning at 9 a.m. benefiting the ANC education programs. There will also be a 1-mile race beginning at 10 a.m. In addition to the races, there will be a costume contest. Dress your best and run as an Alabama critter. There will be prizes for the favorite costume. We will have music and food for everyone, plus door prizes and lots of room for kids to play. Both races start and finish at the ANC pavilion. Please see www.alabamawildlife.org or call (334) 285-4550 for more details and map. Pre-registration: Individual 10K & 5K-$25; 1 Mile-$20; Day-Of Registration-add $5. Landmarks Foundation Presents Cultural Crossroads XIV: The Rivers in Becoming Alabama 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at Old Alabama Town. Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery, the Alabama Department of Archives and History, and Auburn University’s Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities, with the support of the Alabama Humanities Foundation, host this 14th annual Cultural Crossroads Symposium. This year’s program will focus primarily on the central and southwestern rivers that played major roles in the exploration, settlement and early development of those regions of Alabama. General admission $45; members $40. (Landmarks, ADAH, Draughon); faculty and students $25. Lunch included. Order of Cimarron Mardi Gras Parade in Downtown Wetumpka Festival begins at 9 a.m. in Gold Star Park. Parade begins at 1 p.m. For more info, call (334) 424-2867 or (334) 558-5299. Pike Road’s First-Ever Murder Mystery Dinner Theater 6 p.m. This Valentine-themed evening will feature “Til Death Do Us Part” by the award-winning Murder Mystery Company.A delicious dinner will also be provided from Pike Road’s own A Catered Affair. Tickets are only $30. For more information, visit www.pikeroad.us/ or call Pike Road Town Hall at (334) 272-9883. Seating is limited; purchase tickets TODAY at Pike Road Town Hall! Brantwood Children’s Home Love Run Third annual 5K race beginning at Paterson Field. Day of registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. with the race beginning at 8:30 a.m. Proceeds from the race will benefit the up to 36 at-risk and neglected children who call Brantwood home each day. This 5K offers multiple race divisions with awards distributed in each category. To register, call Brantwood at (334) 265-0784 or visit www. active.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Love Songs of Elvis and Buddy -- Through February 15 Performance on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. The Love Songs, starring Elvis Presley tribute artist Scot Bruce and Buddy Holly tribute artist John Mueller, is an annual fundraiser that has traditionally sold out. Dinner reservations are also being taken for The Black Swan on February 14, for dinner prior to the show. Visit www.asf. net or call 271-5353 for tickets. Montgomery Miracle League Spring Ball Registration -- Also February 21 10 a.m.-1 p.m. both Saturdays at the Miracle 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. REGISTRATION FEE: $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 also needs volunteers for Coaches and Buddies (to help the players). If you or someone you know would like to come out and be a part of this awesome program, please come to the registration and fill out a Volunteer Application and join the fun! 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. If you have any questions or need any other information, please e-mail montgomerymiracleleague@gmail.com. Saturday Jam Sessions at Old Alabama Town Also February 28 Pick and grin at Saturday Jam Sessions in the Rose House at Old Alabama Town. Bring your acoustic instruments and have fun. 9 a.m.-noon. For more information, call 334-2404500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com.
Sunday, February 15
Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $65. Visit www.bjcc.org or call (205) 458-8400.
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Calendar/Support Groups Monday, February 16
The Dream Marches On Youth Day of Service A new initiative seeks high school and college students to participate in this Youth Service Day, a volunteer effort to assist in preparations for the 50th anniversary commemoration of the Selma-to-Montgomery Voting Rights March. Activities will range from light landscaping and painting along the trail to helping Montgomery’s less fortunate. Organizers hope the event will foster unity among students throughout the region. Register at www. handsonriverregion.org or call Ken Ward at (334) 391-8146.
Tuesday, February 17
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. Wetumpka Depot Players Present Pinkalicous the Musical NOON only. Adapted from one of the most beloved contemporary children’s classics, Pinkalicious the Musical tells the story of a headstrong little girl who loves the color pink so much that she can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor’s office with Pinkatitis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe. This colorful fun-filled family musical is sure to have everyone in the family tickled pink. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased through wetumpkadepot.com or by calling the box office at (334) 868-1440. The Wetumpka Depot Theatre is located at 300 S. Main Street. 2015 ABLE Better Living Expo -- Also February 18 Montgomery Convention Center. February 17 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; February 18 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. The Home Builders Association of Alabama (HBAA), partnering with associations representing architects, engineers, general contractors, HVAC, and other construction trades, presents the 2015 Alabama’s Better Living Expo (ABLE). With 52,000 square feet of exhibition space, ABLE is the premiere expo
in Alabama on sustainability and green building technology, offering attendees continuing education credits in a variety of subjects focused on resource efficiency and renewable technologies. For registration, visit www.ableexpoal.com.
Wednesday, February 18
Wicked: the Untold Story of the Witches of Oz at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre -- Through March 8 Variety of performance times. Tickets begin at $30. For info, visit www.foxtheatre.org or call (855) 285-8499.
Thursday, February 19
ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “When Histories & Memories Collide: How Huntsville Made Sense of its German Rocket Team’s Nazi Past,” presented by Monique Laney. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Clue: The Musical -- Through March 1 7:30 p.m. performances except for February 22 and March 1 at 2 p.m. Who killed Mr. Boddy, in what room and with what weapon? Come experience the fun family-friendly musical based on the classic CLUE board game by Parker Brothers. The ending depends upon which murderer, weapon, and room cards are drawn by three volunteers at the beginning of the show. The audience plays along trying to solve the mystery which could be one of 216 possible endings! For tickets or more info, visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317. Join us on Facebook.
Friday, February 20
Black Jacket Symphony presents Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of The Moon 8 p.m. at the MPAC. Tickets begin at $29. Call 4815100 or visit www.mpaconline.org. 16th Annual Black History Program 6 p.m. Doster Community Center, Prattville. Free
February2015 entertainment for the entire family. Guest speaker to be announced. Success Unlimited Academy Hosts Women’s Conference -- Also February 21 4500 Vaughn Road. Guest speakers are Tanya McLemore and Benita Edwards. The “Bless Your Heart” conference will be a time of fellowship, Bible study, prayer, and laughter. Tickets are $25 for the two-day event or $20 for groups of 10 or more. Hours are 7-9:30 p.m. February 20 and 9 a.m.noon February 21. Purchase tickets by calling the school at (334) 213-0803 or (334) 676-1629. For more info, e-mail blessyourheart@suacademy.com.
Saturday, February 21
Animal Enrichment Day at the 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 in the wild. It is a lot of trial and error, but it is always fun. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com for more info.
Sunday, February 22
Montgomery’s Annual Jewish Food Festival 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Temple Beth Or on Narrow Lane Road in Montgomery. Sample the food; visit the Treasure Market that promises something for everyone; and stop by the Temple Beth Or Gift Shop, which has a wonderful selection of jewelry and other gifts. Many also take the opportunity to attend a short session in the Temple’s sanctuary with Rabbi Elliot Stevens to learn about Jewish customs. Most of the food has been handmade by Temple members. Included are pastries such as rugelach, strudel and mondel bread; plates of brisket or corned beef; matzo ball soup; potato latkes; and quajado (spinach pie). “Imported” from New York are New York cheesecakes, direct from the famous Carnegie Deli and sold by the slice or cake. For more info, visit www.templebethor.net. Admission and parking are free.
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Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to this FREE fun event, and enjoy a little jazz, art activities in the studios, and wonderful artwork in the galleries. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4365.
Tuesday, February 24
Agape of Central Alabama Presents Michael Oher 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Michael Oher came from a broken home and his estranged father was murdered while Oher was in high school. Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy became Oher’s legal guardians and he developed into a college football star and a top NFL draft pick. Oher’s story was told in Michael Lewis’s book The Blind Side and the Sandra Bullock film of the same name. Tickets begin at $27. For ticket info, visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100. Arrowhead Ladies Association Bunko Party Arrowhead Country Club, 50 Ocala Dr., Montgomery. Dessert at 6:30 p.m. and play at 7 p.m. Be sure to get your tickets EARLY! Only 120 seats available! Tickets are $25; tickets for a 50/50 raffle will also be available. Never played Bunko? We will play a practice round before the real games begin. Winning team will win $150! Team with most losses will win $50. Call Carol at (334) 215-0345 or Pat at (334) 286-0121. E-mail: carols_excursions@att.net or pworley100@aol.com. VOICES for Alabama’s Children and Alabama School Readiness Alliance Invite You to Tour Pine Level Elementary School with State and Local Advocates 10 –11 a.m. Pine Level Elementary School, 2040 U.S. 31 Deatsville. Join State Rep. Jimmy Martin, State Sen. Clyde Chambliss, and Commissioner Jeana Ross, Alabama Dept. of Children’s Affairs Local Advocates, Parent VOICES for Pre-K.
Thursday, February 26
The Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. February speaker is Denise Green from Hampstead Farm. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, February 23, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth. net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com. Wetumpka Depot Presents ‘Night, Mother Through February 28 7:30 performances. Written by Marsha Norman, this Pulitzer prize-winning show was the Depot’s entry into the Alabama Conference on Theatre’s ACTFest. After winning awards there, it is moving on to the Southeastern Theatre Conference in March. For more info and tickets, visit www.wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.
Friday, February 27
Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Cinderella Through March 1 Back by popular demand, the Alabama Dance Theatre presents the full-length fairytale classic on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Performance tickets are $15-$30. Tickets go on sale February 9. For info, call (334) 241-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre. com. Tickets may be purchased at www.alabamadancetheatre.com. (*Following the Saturday and Sunday matinees, children can come to Cinderella’s ball and meet Cinderella and friends in the palace for an additional $10 charge.) Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Importance of Being Earnest -- Through March 15 Oscar Wilde’s deliriously funny masterpiece is a comedic concoction with all the best ingredients! Visit www.asf.net or call 2715353 for tickets. Tall Tales Outdoor Expo and JAKES Event presented by the National Wild Turkey Federation February 27th, 28th, and March 1st This will be a family fun event at the Montgomery Cramton Bowl Multiplex. This is a Hunting, Fishing, Boating and RV Expo along with our three day JAKES Event (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship). The event will be free to kids 12 & under and $5 for adults. Not only will there be fun stuff for the kids like mobile/outdoor class rooms and the JAKES BB gun trailer. There will be many give aways throughout the weekend for both kids and adults. We have several educational seminars scheduled throughout the weekend like boater safety, wild game cleaning, spear fishing, gun safety, casting techniques... just to name a few. Coach Pat Dye will be there on Saturday morning discussing
the importance of conservation and a book signing with his new book. Join us on Saturday night for our annual Hunters Heritage Banquet with live music, food and fellowship. For more information on how to be part of this great event call (334) 300-8202 or visit us at talltalesoutdoorexpo.com.
Saturday, February 28
Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, Cupcakes by Tish will now host Cupcake Decorating Workshops. Classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 3565292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com.
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Thursday, March 5
Wetumpka Crater Events -- Through March 7 If you have an interest in history, meteors, and the earth, you won’t want to miss this year’s Crater events. Wetumpka is the site of the greatest meteor strike to ever hit Alabama. It created a five-mile wide crater that is still visible in the city. This happened over 85 million years ago near the end of the “Age of Dinosaurs.” Each year the Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission and City of Wetumpka sponsor several Crater events, a Thursday evening public lecture by Dr. David King and Friday school tours and Saturday public tours of the Crater. Prior to the lecture on March 5 by Dr. King, at 5:30 p.m. the public is invited to a reception and viewing of “When Dinosaurs Roamed,” a special “Crater Art exhibit” at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery, upstairs in the City Administrative Building. The display will be open through April. Dr. King will conduct the free public lecture on the science of the Crater on March 5 at 7 p.m. in the Wetumpka Civic Center, Main Street. The March 6 tours will be open to
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Selma-to-Montgomery March and the passage of the Voting Rights Act. For more info, call (334) 956-8479 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/. ClefWorks Presents: Imani Winds Quartet 8 p.m. at The Warehouse at Alley Station. ClefWorks will present the World Premiere of “Deep Rivers,” by Mohammed Fairouz, a set of songs newly commissioned by the organization for the Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and military members and are on sale now. The songs will be performed by the GRAMMY-nominated Imani Winds wind quartet and baritone soloist Sidney Outlaw.
Saturday, March 7
Dream Marches on Concert featuring GRAMMY Award-Winning Patti LaBelle 6 p.m. Join the City of Montgomery and Alabama State University at the ASU Acadome. For more info, e-mail aarchie@montgomeryal.gov. Gladys Knight Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $40. Visit http://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400 for information. Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Pre-registration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/ events to register or for more info. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents As You Like It -- Also April 18-May 9 “All the world’s a stage” in this merry William Shakespeare romp! Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353 for tickets.
Thursday, March 12
Christian Comedian Tim Hawkins Performs Live 7 p.m. at Vaughn Forest Church in Montgomery. Ticket prices begin at $20. Visit https://timhawkins.brushfireapp.com/events/427433 or call (888) 780-1116 for tickets. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theater (WOBT) Presents The Odd Couple (female version) Through March 29 In this uproarious comedy, Florence Unger, a neurotic, neat-freak news writer, is thrown out by her husband and moves in with her friend Olive Madison, a slovenly sportswriter. The two mismatched roommates squabble after only a brief time together, but they quickly realize the positive effect they have on one another. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays except for the 2 p.m. Sunday matinee. Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/prattvillewobt. For advance tickets, call (334) 595-0854. “Annie” Eastwood Christian School invites you to attend its spring musical, on Thursday, March 12, and Friday, March 13. It will take place at 6:30 p.m. at Taylor Road Baptist Church located at 1685 Taylor Road. a limited number of school students. Teachers can call Marilee Tankersley at (334)567-4637 for reservations and additional information. On March 7, the Crater Tours will be held hourly starting at 9 a.m., with van transportation provided for a cost. (Not recommended for very small children.) Lectures begin at 9, 10, 11:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Van tour space is very limited and must be reserved before February 25. Participants need to meet at the Wetumpka Civic Center on Main Street, 15 minutes prior to their tour time. Reservations are required. For additional information and reservations, contact Donna at 567-5147 or e-mail dcarboni@ cityofwetumpka.com. Hoops and Dreams Unity Game 6-9 p.m. Featuring legendary Globetrotter Larry “Gator” Rivers and Friends at Carver High School. Celebrity basketball game reflecting on sports in the movement. Game begins at 6 pm. Admission is $8 for adults $3 for students. For more info, call (334) 296-3024 or visit http://dreammarcheson.com/.
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
Friday, March 6
Little Big Town Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $40. Visit http://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400 for information. CONVERSE-sation on Truth and Reconciliation 7-10 p.m. In commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March, I Am More Than…, a youth multicultural empowerment organization, will host a Fashion Show and Concert at Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts in Downtown Montgomery. Hosted by local high school and college students with Beverly Bonds of Black Girls Rock and several other notable celebrity guests. For more info, call (334) 296-3024 or visit http://dreammarcheson.com/. On the March at the Cloverdale Playhouse 7:30-9:30 p.m. Join the Cloverdale Playhouse & the Southern Poverty Law Center for an evening of readings and personal accounts, filled with prose and poetry, commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the
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Friday, March 13
Montgomery Marathon Race Weekend -- Also March 14 Registration and packet pick-up at The Riverwalk Stadium on Friday from noon-7 p.m. There is NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION and NO PACKET PICK-UP on Saturday! On Saturday at 7 a.m., The Montgomery Marathon and Half Marathon begin. At 7:30 a.m., The Hyundai Hope on Wheels 5K begins; at 7:35 a.m., the Publix Mayor’s Challenge begins. From 9 a.m.-2 p.m., there is the Taste of the South Food Festival, Post Race Party and Awards. Visit http://montgomerymarathon. com/ for details.
Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com. www.montgomeryparents.com
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MontgomeryParents “Parents in the Know, Know Montgomery Parents” The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
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Are Your Customers WOMEN? So Are Our READERS! We Offer SMART ADVERTISING! Call Today, 213-7940
Home Based Business Directory Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.
Provides lactation education and consulting, antepartum and postpartum doula services. For more information please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-531-0145. Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com
One Simple Change Bridging the Gap in Nutrition Quality, whole food products backed by clinical research. Alissabeth Taylor ataylor1.juiceplus.com
BLL Computer Services
Complete computer repair. Free diagnoses. Fast friendly service. Flat rate. No hourly fees. Free pickup and delivery. Call: 334-450-9760.
Private Security Guard Work or Sit with Elderly Will do private security guard work for private parties at reasonable fee. Call 334-566-7124. Will sit with elderly, and do have experience. Call 334-670-6906.
“Absolute Clean” Cleaning Service
Reliable, dependable, and trustworthy are the three things most needed when trusting someone in your home. We have all three of them, so just call Trenella @ 334-391-7596 for your free estimate and the absolute best cleaning job you could ask for with no worries, just a clean house. Call today!
MATH TUTORING
Chemistry Tutor
24 years teaching experience
Current Chemistry Teacher Experienced chemistry tutor
Clarence Hann, IV
Email channiv30@gmail.com or call 334-546-4860.
Call Lisa Tyler (334) 647-1125 lisactyler@yahoo.com
Half off on first session if you mention this ad.
Piano Teacher
Saxon Lawn Service
Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome. 1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.
You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324.
Do You Love Candles??
Advanced Wireless Repair Cell Phone and Tablet Repair Free Pick Up & Delivery – Most Locations 334-647-1336
**PARTYLITE = 41 Years of Excellence! Are you social? HOST A SHOW. Do you like to Shop? GO ONLINE. Need an income? Now hiring PART-TIME & FULL-TIME Consultants! Let’s get connected: www.partylite.biz/maryoverton. FREE DOZEN TEALIGHTS to first 25 inquiries! Email candleladyal@gmail.com or call (334) 546-2590.
Squeaky Clean
The Piano Man
THE SMART SOLUTION
No job too big or small. Clean/disinfect kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum, dust and floors. Over 13 years experience. Affordable pricing. 334.451.0052
Piano tunings, repair, and restoration. Active member of the Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. Call 569-9662 or visit www.pianoman.net/al
Southern Quality Lawns, LLC
Cassie’s English Tutor, Proofreader, Typist and Writer
“Quality Service from the Ground Up” Serving the tri county area. Call or email us for a free estimate. Bobby, 334-657-7750. robertsqlawns@gmail.com
Cassie Rogers (662) 380-6000 cassiesenglish@yahoo.com
Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors. Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.
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28 years teaching experience Tutoring grades 1st-8th
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Call Alice Gwin at (334) 300-8350. Email dalice.gwin@gmail.com.
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Essential Oil Classes & Business Building
Learn how essential oils can support your family’s health or how you can build a business by sharing your passion with friends, family, or medical practice. Contact Alissabeth Taylor at 334-478-0166 or email AlissabethTaylor@gmail.com.
Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 9 years. Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183
Brother to Brother Entertainment, Inc.
Get a DJ and a Photographer in one package for your next event. We specialize in birthdays, weddings, luncheons, family reunions, and holiday parties. Contact Matthew Ezell @ 334-202-6869 or Alexander Strum @ 334-235-3518
The FREE AD GUY knows that every business needs a few lucky breaks before it can become successful. That’s why he is offering more FREE ads to Home Based Businesses. In return, the FREE AD GUY would appreciate it if you would tell a friend about Montgomery Parents Magazine. If you’ll just help him spread the word about Montgomery Parents Magazine he’ll keep working for you and your business. If you have already run a FREE ad you can send a request to repeat the ad or make changes. Please understand but we will not accept any phone requests. For new Home Based Business advertisers, just send your information to: FREE AD GUY, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123, or freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com. The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.
Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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AdvertiserDirectory We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.
Easter Seals Central Alabama, 53
Montgomery Humane Society, 78
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 49
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 81
Evangel Christian Academy, 35
Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 47
Adventure Sports II, 27
First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten, 23
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 28
Alabama Christian Academy, 33
First UMC, Montgomery, 82
Mrs. Sandy’s House, 85
Alabama Dance Theatre, 14
First UMC, Prattville, 35
My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 17, 23
Alabama Dept. of Health, Inside Front
Fleming’s Martial Arts, 71
New Park, 51
Alabama School of Math & Science, 41
Frazer UMC, 24, Inside Back Cover
New Waters Realty, 18
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 65
Gracepointe Church of Christ, 22
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 71
All Med, 58
Greengate School, 4
Prattville Wesleyan Preschool, 85
Allison Hilyer Photography, 64
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 31
Professional Pediatrics, 12
ASKIN/Synergy House, 85
Hooper Academy, 77
Providence Early Childcare/Preschool, 55
AUM Continuing Education, 49
It Works, 8
Pump It Up Party, 63
AUM Dixie Baseball, 21
Jenny Alexander, MD, 85
R.O.C.K. Campaign, 44
AUM Early Childhood Center, 19
Johnson Martial Arts/Karate, 14
Riverview Camp for Girls, 71
Autauga County Family Support Ctr, 38
Joy to Life, 59
Saint James School, 1
Baptist Health, 2
Kids Carousel, 21
SLE Rodeo, 29
Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 32
Kingry Orthodontics, 42
Smiles Galore Parties, 49
Bradford Health Services, 67
Kreative Moments, 85
Spacewalker, The, 45
Chapman Orthodontics, 57
Kumon, 39
Spotless Cleaning Services, 11
Children’s Clothing Exchange, 7
Learning Tree Child Care, 69
Success Unlimited Academy, 25
Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 66
Legacy Early Learning Center, 61
Sylvan Learning Center, 32
Churchill Academy, 13
Little Explorer’s Learning Center, 42
Taylor Road Baptist Church, 80
Dancewear, Etc., 85
Lori Mercer Photography, 57
The Big Green Bus, 53
Dentistry for Children, 27
Macon East Academy, 9
The Dollhouse Toy Store, 73
Dixie Youth Baseball & Softball, 83
Magnolia Hill, 63
The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover
Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 3
Mathnasium, 43
Trinity Presbyterian School, 15
Doodlebugs Consignment, 84
Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 62
True Vision Health and Wellness, 85
Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 62
Montessori @ Hampstead, 26, 79
Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 80
Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 22
Montessori @ Mulberry, 45
Vaughn Road Preschool, 34
E & S Hobbies, 85
Montgomery Catholic Schools, 37
Vishnu Dental, 81
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Strange Magic
Black or White
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: BSexual Content: B+ Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Strange Magic PG for some action and scary images. Strange Magic is indeed a strange little story about two co-existing worlds. In one half of the kingdom everything is sunshine and flowers with happy fairies, elves and imps. On the other darker half, live the Bog King (voice by Alan Cumming), scary looking goblins and talking mushrooms. If all goes well, the two will never meet. Of course that won’t happen. A collision is inevitable because one side has something the other side wants. Roland (voice by Sam Palladio) intends to marry the fairy Princess Marianne (voice by Evan Rachel Wood) and become king so he can command an army. But the self-centered pretender gets caught kissing someone else just before the wedding. Finished with the idea of love, Marianne trades in her romantic notions and filmy dress for boots, leggings and a sword to show us she is serious about being an independent woman. However the wimpy Roland knows the only way he’ll raise in the ranks is by marrying the future Queen. When he discovers Sunny the troll (voice by Elijah Kelley) is in love with Marianne’s flirtatious little sister Dawn (voice by Meredith Anne Bull), he realizes both men can get what they want, if they can get a little help from a love potion. Unfortunately the Sugar Plum Fairy (voice by Kristin Chenoweth) is the only one with the power to make the magic elixir. However, she’s been imprisoned by the powerful Bog King. Following the themes from A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Beauty and the Beast, this musical film is full of romantic hits from past decades. (Surprisingly Love Potion No. 9 -- an obvious choice -- doesn’t show up in the soundtrack.) Almost every scene has a melodic interlude with one character or another belting out the words of a classic rock tune or Top 40 song. The script will be an easy adaptation if producer George Lucas ever decides to take it to the stage. In the meantime the film boasts exquisitely animated backgrounds. Unfortunately the characters have faces that look oddly like a bobble-head on a doll body. Despite 3D animation, their personalities are a little more one-dimensional. From the minute Roland opens his mouth and twists the golden lock of hair on his forehead, we know he won’t be the hero of the story. And as much as Marianne goes on and on about her dislike of love, we know exactly where she is headed as well. When it comes to content issues this film has little for parents to worry about, other than a few scary moments, cartoon-style violence and interspecies kissing after the love potion is dispersed over the forest. But if you plan to buy tickets for this curious little film, you’ll need to go for the music and not the storyline -- because that is as gossamery as fairy wings.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: D The MPAA has rated Black or White PG-13 on appeal for brief strong language, thematic material involving drug use and drinking, and for a fight. With a title like Black or White, it’s easy to assume the plotline would be the same. Two grandparents pitted against one another in a custody battle where racial and cultural differences play into the fight. Thankfully the characters and storyline are far more complex and complicated than the title suggests. As the movie opens, Elliot Anderson (Kevin Costner) is sitting in a hospital corridor where he has just learned his wife (Jennifer Ehle) has died from injuries sustained in a car accident. A work colleague (Bill Burr) arrives and stumbles through an awkward attempt to comfort the grieving man. It is a painfully real moment for anyone who has ever had a similar experience. Somehow Eliot gets home and drinks himself into a senseless stupor before falling into bed still fully clothed. In the morning, he’s awakened by his granddaughter Eloise (Jillian Estell). Even though he is her guardian, Eliot doesn’t know how to break the news to the child, so he simply drives her to school and drops her off for the day. Then he goes home to the bottle. It is a coping strategy Eliot has perfected since he lost his daughter (Eloise’s mother) seven years earlier, and a habit he falls back on now. But it also proves to be a problem when Eloise’s paternal grandmother decides to seek custody of the little girl. Grandma Rowena (Octavia Spencer), the mother of Eloise’s estranged father Reggie (André Holland), lives in East LA, which Eliot considers to be the wrong side of town. However this capable matriarch owns several homes, cares for numerous nieces and nephews, and runs multiple businesses out of her garage. She worries about Eloise growing up without a motherly influence in her life. So to make her point, she hires her brother to represent her in court. It is obvious that, even as much as Rowena wants Eloise, she is uncomfortable with making the suit a racial contest. Eliot is equally uncomfortable with his lawyers’ intention to dig up all the dirt they can find on Eloise’s drug-using, deadbeat dad. As the story unfolds it becomes evident that neither situation is perfect. Rowena sees Eloise as a way to help her wayward son step up and accept responsibility for his little girl -- something he is not overly eager to do. Already having lost his wife and daughter, Eliot can’t imagine having to give up Eloise as well. Yet his relationship with the bottle threatens to separate them. Unfortunately, this movie was originally rated R by the MPAA for language. And although the filmmakers successfully appealed and the rating was lowered to PG-13, the script is still full of profanities. Still this story clearly shows that when it comes to what is best for the child, the answer is rarely as simple as black or white.
What Parents need to know about Black or White...
Violence: Characters discuss a man’s past jail time for criminal acts. Two men, one drunk and the other high on drugs, clumsily fight with one another. One character has a knife. Another character is hit over the head with an object and begins to bleed. A man falls into a swimming pool and begins to drown. Sexual Content: A man comments about noticing women’s breasts. Unwed pregnancy and sexual relations between a minor and an adult are mentioned. Language: One use of a strong expletive in a non-sexual context. Frequent uses of scatological slang, vulgar expressions, profanities and ethno-cultural slurs are also included, along with some crude dialogue and terms for anatomy. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character repeatedly turns to alcohol to deal with grief. He is depicted as inebriated on several occasions. Another character is shown smoking illegal drugs with a group of men.
What Parents need to know about Strange Magic...
Violence: Characters engage in hand-to-hand and weapons battles, but no blood or injuries are portrayed. Other moments of non-graphic violence include pushing, slapping and slapstick-style fighting. Characters experience moments of peril. Scary images may frighten young children. Sexual Content: Brief scenes of kissing and embracing are shown. A character becomes embarrassed after someone tells him he is naked. Language: The script includes brief name-calling. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters use a fantastical potion to make others fall in love with them. Montgomery Parents I February 2015
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