Oh, The Places They Are Going! THE SAINT JAMES SCHOOL CLASS OF 2019 EARNED OVER $4.4 MILLION IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS! The graduates have committed to universities and colleges in twelve states and two countries outside of the United States! These Saint James seniors embody the school’s mission and philosophy of educating the whole child, including academics, arts, and athletics. As individuals and team members, their accomplishments boast distinguished titles including District and State Math Champions; District and State Art Competition Winners as well as Gold and Silver Key Winners; National Forensics Qualifiers; Youth in Government Officials; Honor Band Members; National Choir Competition Winners; Area Football Champions; State Runner Up Volleyball Champions; State Wrestling Duals Runner Up and Super Sectional Champions; Girls Indoor Track State Champions; Girls Tennis State Champions; Girls Outdoor Track State Champions; Area Girls Soccer Champions; Area Baseball Champions; and so much more!
They’re off and away! With a firm foundation under their feet. And ready for any challenge they meet. With great promise for the future, we congratulate the Saint James Class of 2019!
Saint James School FOR PRE-K3 THROUGH 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS
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Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
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Volume 24 Number 7
Columns
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8 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
Co-Parenting Survival Guide Advice to help make divorce a little easier for you and your children.
The Savvy Party Planner
Ideas for a stress free birthday celebration!
16 Montgomery Education Matters by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent
42 Pike Road Education Matters by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.
46 Autauga Education Matters
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by Superintendent Spence Agee
66 72 76
49 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis
53 The College Years by Lee Gonet
56 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between
Birthday Party Guide
All the local resources you need for their big day.
A Festive Mess
17 creative activities for an unforgettable birthday celebration.
Common Sense Media
71 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith
72 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
On The Cover Harper Rain Riley (age 4) is the daughter of Jennifer Riley and Coleman Woodson III of Montgomery. Harper adores all things PINK, could live in the water 24-7, loves to create concoctions of all kinds (including helping her mom cook and arrange flowers). She also enjoys singing, dancing and playing piano with her daddy.
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Departments 14 Teacher of the Month 18 School Bits 80 Calendar/Support Groups 92 Mom to Mom
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Editor’sNote Isn’t it fun how much our kids love their birthdays? They love talking about how old they are going to be next, even if it’s nine months away. And they LOVE planning their parties (something my youngest does also nine months out). Grace just turned eight in March and she is already planning her next birthday party. She’s changed her mind two or three times already, of course, but that doesn’t matter. She’s just having so much fun talking about it, and I can’t help but smile! Assuming most of your kiddos are like Grace, we are happy to give you our Annual Birthday Issue. Christina Katz shares two great articles to get the “party” started. The Savvy Party Planner offers a countdown to a stress free birthday celebration. Use her checklist to plan gradually over time and end up totally relaxed on the big day! In A Festive Mess: 17 Creative Birthday Activities for an Unforgettable Party, Katz explores ideas that allow kids to get a little messy, making for some of the best memories. After getting inspiration for your next party, flip on over to our 2019 Birthday Party Guide. You’ll find local resources including a large variety of places to party, where to buy cakes and treats, who to call for inflatables and other rentals, plus so much more. Our advertisers are highlighted in the guide, as always, and look forward to serving your family! As we parents know, raising children is full of fun stuff (like birthdays) and also challenges. Montgomery Parents desires to provide excellent information to help you on both fronts. On page 8, Sonia Martin shares advice for guiding your kids through adolescence and all the changes that brings for them, and for us as their parents. Laura Reagan-Porras shares her Co-Parenting Survival Guide, writing from experience about ideas she has found to be helpful for parents and kids alike. Even though we are in the thick of the summer heat here in Alabama, you’ll find no shortage of things to do as a family. Check out our Bits and Pieces and Family Calendar and make plans to get out and celebrate summer. And speaking of celebrating, we wish all of you a Happy Fourth of July! We are so thankful for all the men and women who sacrifice day in and day out so that we can live free. As we light our grills for that BBQ lunch, sit arm in arm to watch fireworks, or take the kids to catch candy in a local parade, let’s do so in honor of those who make these special moments possible! Have a wonderful July and we look forward to getting you ready for Back to School in next month’s issue!
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 Robert Coggin, MD Richard Dennis Lee Gonet Christina Katz Dr. Charles Ledbetter Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dr. Ann Roy Moore Laura Reagan-Porras Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Judy Barranco www.judybarrancophotography.com
Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com
Associate Publisher Gena Hill Community Coordinator Savannah Bowden Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com
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Ad Design Tim Welch
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deanne@montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2018 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.
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP
Jerk Adolescents? “Because once they turn 12 years old, they turn into jerks for awhile…” I won’t forget those words, spoken to me years ago by the father of a good friend. In all of my naïveté as a young mother, I had asked him why he chose 12 years old to take each of his grandchildren on a special trip. At the time I had four boys under five, so I hadn’t yet grasped this age of adolescence. My world was still consumed with Batman Underoos, matchbox cars and whose turn it was to drive the power wheel. It wasn’t until my oldest turned 12 that those words came racing back into my stream of consciousness like the scream of a siren. Here it comes, “12….jerk….” And though I didn’t experience some kind of cosmic shift on his 12th birthday, what I did notice was my son starting ever so gently to pull away. Year by year, bit by bit, in small subtle ways, I was slowly no longer “his person”. It was never more evident than the day I noticed the picture
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
of him and I together in Yellowstone was no longer his screen saver on his iTouch. (Cry) It was no longer me that he turned to when he needed advice, or a hug, or some of my “sage” counsel. It was me, however, that he still turned to for a grilled cheese sandwich or a baseball uniform that needed the dirt out, or permission to go out with his friends. What I began to realize was that I needed to make adjustments in our relationship just as much as he did. If he was going to grow and shift and get ready for the next stage, then so was I. So instead of hanging on with clenched fists dying at the altar of how things used to be, I figured out where he needed me now and went with it. What I quickly realized was that I needed to be his soft place to land. In a world of middle school drama, temptations and stress, he needed somewhere to be where he could breathe. And when you look at your adolescent through the lens of someone who is struggling to
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navigate the rocky ground of life, instead of looking at him through the lens of someone who is just trying to test your patience, you shift your response and there is victory there. So, if you are knocking on the door of having a 12 year old or in the midst of raising an adolescent, just remember, this is normal. This is healthy. This is the process we need them to walk through since we are not trying to raise a 40-yearold who sleeps on our couch. While still under the parental authority of our home, while still under the protection of our presence, we need them to start to stand up. So this process, though admittedly painful at times, is necessary and what they were designed to do. So I say this...Jerk? No. Grown up in the making? Yes. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation. Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of whom were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent.
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Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Stars on the Riverfront
July 28-29 * 7:30 p.m. Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce Street. Bring the entire family and a picnic to one of these two spectacular free performances. These eclectic performances are the culmination of ADT’s two-week Summer Dance Seminar and will feature more than 50 dancers. Gates open at 6 p.m. for picnicking. This event is FREE and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 625-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com/.
Chantilly 13 July 1 & 4: Madagaskar July 8 & 11: Puss in Boots July 15 & 19: Monsters vs. Aliens July 22 & 25: Chicken Run Tickets are $4.50 + tax and include kidsized popcorn and drink. *** NOTE: Prattville Promenade features the same movies the same weeks at the same prices, but on Wednesdays and Thursdays instead of Mondays and Thursdays. ***
Alabama’s 14th annual sales tax holiday for school-related items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 19, and ends at midnight Sunday, July 21, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s 4% sales or use tax. For more info, visit alabamaretail.org/resources/salestaxholidays/back-to-school/.
Youth Fishing Rodeo
Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook August 10 * 7-11 a.m. Open to anyone age 15 and under. Admission is free; however, participants are asked to pre-register as space is limited and all youth must be accompanied by an adult. Each young angler will receive a T-shirt and will be eligible for door prizes. Snacks and drinks available. Each participant may take home five catfish each, but may catch and release all they would like. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment and bait, though a limited number of loaner rods and some bait will be available. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Family-Friendly Theatre
Cloverdale Playhouse presents The True Adventures of Pinocchio July 18-28. Translated and adapted from Italian by Louis Lippa and directed by J. Scott Grinstead. Featuring the well-known tale of the wooden boy who must learn some hard lessons before he can become real. For more info, call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/.
Wetumpka Depot Players & Wetumpka High Theatre Guild present Big Fish July 23 and 25-27 on the campus of Wetumpka High School. Written by Andrew Lippa and John August; directed by Kristy Meanor. Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, Big Fish centers on a traveling salesman whose incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him. For tickets, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre presents Oklahoma! July 25-August 11. This classic musical is a family favorite and is suitable for all ages. Music and lyrics by Rodgers and Hammerstein, and directed by Sam Wallace. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit cc.prattvilleal.gov. 10
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Movie Monday at the Riverfront in July
Dusk at Riverfront Park. This FREE event is perfect for the entire family. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnics and enjoy an evening on the banks of the Alabama River. Vendors available. July 1: The Lion King; July 8: Ready Player One; July 15: Spiderman: Into the Spiderverse; and July 22: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Call (334) 625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com.
SUMMER CHILDREN’S MATINEES MAY 30 thru JULY 26
ALL SEATS $2.00
NO SHOWS JULY 4-5 May 30-31: Captain Underpants June 6-7: Sgt Stubby:American Hero July 11 - 12: Wallace & Gromit June 13-14: Teen Titans Go! July 18 - 19: Wonder Park June 20-21: Boss Baby July 25 - 26: Race For Your Life, June 27-28: Chicken Run Charlie Brown
50¢ Popcorn – 50¢ Soda
Attendance is First Come, First Serve. No Reservations, No Advance Sales. CAPRI THEATRE • 1045 E FARVIEW AVE • 334.262.54858
THURS • FRI • 10:00am & 1:00pm www.montgomeryparents.com
Summer Reading Library Programs Slogan: A Universe of Stories!
Montgomery Programs through July 12 Program Finale July 12 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Morgan Library, 245 High Street Visit http://mccpl.lib.al.us/ and click on the locations tab to find the branch closest to you. Wetumpka Library Programs For grades 1-6 Tuesdays through July 23 @ 2-3 p.m. Wetumpka Civic Center For grades 7-12 Thursdays through July 25 @ 1 p.m. Movies at the library www.wetumpkalibrary.com/ Prattville Programs For ages 6-10 Tuesdays through July 23 @ 11 a.m. For ages 11-18 Mondays through July 22 @ 5:30-6:30 p.m. www.appl.info/summerregistration.asp
Tuesdays, July 9 and 23 * 6:30-8:30 p.m. Autauga Creekwalk behind Prattville City Hall, just off South Chestnut Street. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Coolers are welcome, but no alcoholic beverages or glass containers are allowed. Concerts are free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0850.
MPAC Presents Henry Cho
July 21 * 6 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Henry Cho is a comedian, TV host, and has appeared in numerous movies. His clean comedy can be heard daily on Sirrus, XM and Pandora. He has toured with Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Willie Nelson, Carrie Underwood and Reba. Tickets begin at $17. For more info, visit www.mpaconline. org/ or call (334) 481-5100.
Jurassic Quest
August 2 - August 4, 3-8 p.m. Renaissance Montg. Convention Center America’s largest and most realistic dinosaur event. Guests will walk through the Cretaceous period, the Jurassic Period and the Triassic period and experience for themselves what it was like to be among living, breathing dinosaurs. Visit jurassicquest.com.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
Teens Need Check Ups Too Parents are familiar with having checkup visits for their younger children. However, as children get to pre-teen and teenage years, they become more independent and more responsible for their own care. Routine check-up visits often become overlooked or forgotten at this age. This is just the age when dramatic changes occur physically, emotionally, and socially and make routine visits with their doctor even more critical. It is a good idea to schedule these appointments when your teen is not sick. This gives time to discuss any concerns they have and gives the physician time to provide anticipatory guidance about changes in their lives which they may soon experience. These visits are recommended yearly from 11 to 18 years old. Older teens can be seen with or without their parents depending on their preference. At these visits, they should expect height and weight to be measured, blood pressure to be taken, and a general physical examination to be done. In addition, hearing and vision testing may be done because it’s amazing how many teens do not realize how
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
poor their vision is. Some lab tests may be necessary such as blood counts, urinalysis and cholesterol. Physical examinations for participation in junior high and high school athletics are frequently required at this time also. It is a good idea to have this done with your regular physician who already has your medical records and immunization records. These exams can be done as part of the general exam but also require an orthopedic screening and vision testing. It is a good idea to have this visit as soon as possible before the season so that any significant issues can be addressed and not delay participation in the sport. Also, be sure to bring the completed sports participation questionnaire and physical exam forms at the time of the visit. Immunizations are routinely done at the 11 and 16 year old check-ups. At the 11 year visit they are due for the Tdap for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis or whooping cough and an immunization for meningococcal infections that cause meningitis. It is also recommended they receive the vaccine for human papillomavirus or HPV that causes genital cancers in girls and boys. At 16 they are due for the second meningococcal im-
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munization and another separate meningococcal vaccine for type B meningococcus. These visits are also important to help teens realize that they are getting to the age they will be more responsible for making many important decisions for themselves. These decisions include choosing positive associations of friends, use of electronics and social media, social pressures and stresses, pressures of alcohol and drug use, sexual activity, and college and career choices. All these decisions and stresses can sometimes lead to feeling anxious or having other emotional issues. These visits are a good opportunity to discuss these problems initially. However, other visits may be necessary to manage significant issues more fully. July is a busy time of year for these visits, so schedule your visit soon and get ready for a productive new school year.
Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys college sports with his wife Cathy who is an attorney.
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Debbie Moncrief Hooper Academy
teacher, Miss Kelly, made a difference in her academic life. “She stayed after school every afternoon and worked one on one with me until I was caught up. I knew then that I wanted to be like her and to have an impact on as many children’s lives as possible.” “The most rewarding things about teaching for me are seeing the expression on the children’s faces when a spark has been ignited. Plus, every day is exciting and different, I’m surrounded by love every day, and I love inspiring the children that are in my classroom.” Beyond the subject she teaches, Mrs. Moncrief hopes to foster students’ self-esteem and to inspire students to be interested in learning. She adds, “I hope to be a role model for each student. I want my students to know it’s okay to make mistakes and keep trying, to be aware of their importance, to know they are special, and that each child has special gifts to offer.”
“For years, Mrs. Moncrief has been the face of Hooper. Her kind, caring and enthusiastic teaching approach has been the motivation for several families to send their children to Hooper Academy,” says a parent of a Hooper student. Debbie Moncrief has been teaching 1st grade for 32 years at Hooper Academy. Her husband, herself and their children are all graduates of Hooper. Her education includes a Bachelor’s Degree from Huntington College with a degree in Elementary Education/ Early Childhood Education and a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Troy State University. She is passionate about teaching and says she is humbled to be nominated for Teacher of the Month by her students’ parents. “I feel much joy knowing I have made a difference in a child’s life.” Outside of the classroom, Debbie enjoys photography, scrap booking, shopping, spending time with family and friends, and vacationing at the beach. When asked how she manages her time to get all her teaching duties done within schedule she says, “I must always be prepared, always plan ahead, and I set priorities and organize our day around the most important tasks.” Great advice for everyone! She thought about being a teacher even when she was very young. Playing school was one of her favorite things to do. After her family moved from Ohio to Florida when she was in third grade, it was discovered that she was behind academically. Her
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
Congratulations, Mrs. Moncrief, on being the Montgomery Parent’s Teacher of the Month. Thank you for making a difference through the classroom! Debbie Moncrief has been married to Dave for 28 years and they have two adult children.
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Bullies There have been bullies ever since there have been school playgrounds. It is a problem that educators have been confronting since the little red school house. Over the years, our approach to dealing with the issue has evolved. We have moved from the belief that “kids will be kids” to our work to not only protect the victim, but to help the bully understand what he or she is doing is not appropriate. We have also come to realize that often bullies are acting out because of issues of their own. There are many types of bullying. Mostly it involves what the website https:// www.stopbullying.gov calls an imbalance of power. One student uses his or her physical prowess, information that is em-
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
barrassing, or his or her level of popularity to harm another student physically or emotionally. Bullying can range from teasing all the way to causing physical harm. Nationwide, about 20 percent of students between the ages of 12 and 18 are bullied in some way. Using the internet, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other platforms bullies have opportunities to harass individuals around the clock to thousands and thousands of others. It has, unfortunately, gone far beyond the old cliché of kicking dust on a child’s shoes on the playground. Parents and schools must work together to ensure our children don’t become victims. If your son or daughter seems to have a change in mood or if she or he suddenly seems fearful or doesn’t want to go to school – sometimes faking illnesses or “acting out” - it could be a sign that there is bullying taking place. Talk with your child about the issue. If you find that there may be harassment taking
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place, contact your child’s principal or counselor as soon as you can. You can also contact our social services department at 334-223-6851. Montgomery Public Schools has very clear rules against, and consequences for, bullying. Students who are found to have bullied another can be suspended, expelled or even arrested. You can find the specifics and a form to report bullying and harassment in the MPS Student Conduct Manual. Our children need to feel safe at school. If you suspect there is an issue, please don’t hesitate to contact administrators and let them know. A student cannot do his or her best in school if he or she is worried about being harassed. Dr. Ann Roy Moore is a teacher. For more than four decades, Dr. Moore has educated the children of Alabama. From her first post as a pre-school teacher, to her administrative work as a principal, central office curriculum specialist, superintendent, and her mentoring the next generation of teachers as an adjunct professor at colleges and universities, teaching is her passion.
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Montgomery County Schools
BTW Visual Artists Win Scholarships
Three Booker T. Washington Magnet High School Visual Arts students each received a $1,000 scholarship from the Alabama State Council on the Arts. From left, they are Alanna Johnson, Megan Myrick and Erika Lewis.
Montgomery Academy Participates in Duke TIP
Holy Cross Names Recipient of the 2019 Melanie Kelley Award
Holy Cross Episcopal School announces the recipient of this year’s winner of the greatly coveted Melanie Kelley Award. This exclusive award is given only to one graduating 6th-grader each year, and was presented to Sanai Burton during the 2019 graduation commencement ceremony. This award is presented to the student who, in the estimation of the faculty, best exemplifies by his or her scholarship, leadership, character and service the spirit of Holy Cross Episcopal School. Burton’s name was engraved and added to the plaque which will proudly hang in Kelley Hall throughout the 2019-2020 school year. Montgomery Parents I July 2019
Twenty-one Montgomery Academy students (44% of the class) in the seventh-grade class qualified to participate in the 39th Annual Scholastic Talent Search sponsored by Duke University Talent Identification Program. Eligible students must have scored at the 95th percentile or higher on a grade-level standardized achievement test, such as the Educational Records Bureau Comprehensive Testing Program (ERB). The following students qualified: Win Berry, Sarah Elizabeth Casey, Parker Cook, Mac Freeman, William Hall, Josh Hollister, Sarah Kate Ingram, Taz Islam, Eli Jernigan, Isabella Johnson, Lauren Jones, John Allen Lachney, Rick McBride, Lydia Miller, Susannah Miller, Myers Pinckard, Anna Powell, Isabelle Rutland, Ron Sharma, Holt Speir and Mae Mae Voltz. Three students qualified to receive state recognition. Isabella Johnson, Isabelle Rutland and Holt Speir qualified based on their performance on either the SAT or ACT. Students were recognized at the State Recognition Ceremony held at the University of Alabama. Seventh-graders are invited to participate in the SAT or ACT if they score at the 95th percentile or above in one of the following areas of the ERB: verbal ability, reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, mathematics, writing mechanics, or writing concepts and skills. Students can also qualify with other approved standardized test scores. Students took either the SAT or ACT during the months of December 2018-February 2019.
CAP Honors Bear Principal For ACE Program
The Civil Air Patrol has chosen Bear Exploration Center Principal Elizabeth Hill as one of three National Aerospace Connections in Education (ACE) Sustained Excellence Award winners. She will receive an award plaque and $250. Bear has participated in the ACE program since 2007, starting as a beta-testing site at the program’s beginnings. Bear has worked with the CAP at Maxwell Air Force Base and the Montgomery chapter of the Air Force Association to provide many learning experiences for the students, including having a helicopter and hot air balloons on campus. 18
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Evangel’s Fifth-Graders Enjoy Etiquette Class Evangel Christian Academy’s fifth-grade class recently enjoyed participating in an etiquette class. The students learned about behavior in a formal setting and table manners for a formal dinner. Laura Ryals and LaDonna LeMaster hosted the event. After completing the course, the students were given the chance to use their new skills. In honor of Mother’s Day, the students invited their mothers to join them for lunch at a formal tea room. The moms where impressed with their distinguished students.
MEA Names Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award Nominees
Seniors Connor Higbe and Madisyn Kennedy represented Macon East Academy at the 60th annual Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award ceremony at Frazer United Methodist Church on April 30. Since 1959, the objective of the Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award program has been to recognize Christian leadership in athletics and to encourage and inspire others to emulate the man whose memory is perpetuated by this award. The current status of the Hitchcock Award is stronger than ever before and is held in high status in the Montgomery area. Each year coaches nominate senior athletes who have displayed the most outstanding qualities of Christian leadership in athletics and possess the following qualities: strong character, dependability, 100% effort, team leadership, church leadership, school leadership and scholastic leadership. Freshman students who exhibit these same qualities are also invited to attend the annual banquet and be recognized. This year, Ali Churchwell and Luke Noffsinger represented Macon East Academy as freshman certificate recipients. Higbe and Kennedy were both honored to be part of a prestigious group of Hitchcock nominees as their full resume of athletic, academic and volunteer accomplishments were shared with the auditorium full of parents, coaches, Hitchcock committee members and special guests. Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Montgomery Academy Boys’ and Girls’ Tennis Teams Win State Championships
Montgomery Academy’s boys’ and girls’ tennis teams captured the Class 4A-5A state championship trophies. This is the 12th time MA has swept boys’ and girls’ tennis championships. The first was in 1997 and the most recent was in 2016. For the girls’ team, Martha Ernest was the No. 4 singles champion and teamed with Lucy Chapman for the No. 3 doubles title, while McRae Freeman won at No. 6 singles. It added up to MA’s 18th overall girls tennis championship, including 10 in the last 12 years. Alec Chandler led the MA boys by winning No. 4 singles and teaming with Hamilton Chapman to win at No. 2 doubles. Whit Davis also won at No. 5 singles. The Eagles have 16 boys’ tennis titles, including seven in the last nine years. The non-wins were each of the last two years. “When you win it every year, people kind of take it for granted,” longtime MA boys’ coach David Bethea said. “When you don’t win it for a couple of years, you appreciate it more.” 20
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ACA Softball Coach Receives AHSAA Award
Alabama Christian Academy softball coach Chris Goodman was one of seven individuals selected by the Alabama High School Athletic Association for their annual “Making a Difference” Award. The organization selects one person from each classification. Goodman is the third local individual honored for the award, which was created in 2012, joining G.W. Carver Principal Gary Hall (2016) and former Montgomery Academy Athletic Director Anthony McCall (2018). Goodman, a Wetumpka High and Faulkner University graduate who played baseball for the Eagles, is the first coach in AHSAA history to win state titles in baseball and softball. As a softball coach, his team presented him with his 500th career win in 2019 and closed out the year as Class 4A state champions. His first team in 2007 also won a state title. The Lady Eagles have reached the state tourney every year but one (2016) with three state crowns, three state runner-up finishes and have compiled a 537-195-5 record. He coached ACA baseball teams to a 389-192 record with state titles in 1995 and 2000 and finished runner-up in 1994 and 2004. He coached the boys’ basketball program to three area titles and a 216168 record and led the ACA girls to six area titles and a 225-93 record. His foursport overall coaching record is 1,367634-5. His ability to coach boys and girls alike with the amazing successes he has had is a testament to how he helps the student-athletes reach their potential time and time again. Goodman has served on the AHSAA state softball coaches committee since 2007. 21
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Montgomery County Schools
Macon East Participates in Legislative Day
From left, Macon East Academy seniors Tanner McNaughton, Sydney Weverink, Jake Gracey, Bailey Nyberg, Parker Hardegree and Madisyn Kennedy participated in this year’s Legislative Day hosted by the Alabama Bankers Association. The April 17 event featured guest speaker Will Ainsworth, Alabama’s lieutenant governor. Legislative Day allows ABA members from all over Alabama to bring high school students to Montgomery to learn about the legislative process and meet their elected officials. Participants have an opportunity to visit the House chamber, learn how bills become law, take part in a mock vote, and tour the Capitol.
BTW Students Participate in Flimp Festival
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Congratulations to the winners from Booker T. Washington Magnet High School in the Montgomery Museum of Art’s Flimp Festival Chalk Art Contest.
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Park Crossing Senior Signs Coastal Softball Scholarship
Park Crossing High School senior Caitlyn Thomas signed a softball scholarship to Coastal Alabama-Brewton in front of family and friends. Thomas has been on Park Crossing High School’s varsity softball team since 9th grade. She was recognized as honorable mention outfielder her 11th-grade year with a .405 batting average. She finished her senior year with 10 homeruns and 35 RBIs. Thomas also played on the varsity volleyball and basketball teams since her freshman year, was a student athletic trainer for the football team and was involved in the Beta Club.
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Success Unlimited Sixth-Graders Name a Star
Choosing the name of your child can be difficult for some parents. Choosing the name of a star in the sky proved to be even more difficult for sixth-grade students at Success Unlimited Academy! After learning about the life cycle of stars and different types of stars, students had the opportunity to name the star and have the name included in the Star Catalogue. Students debated, discussed and debated again which name to pick for their star— finally deciding on Jilly, the imaginary sixth-grader, in honor of the imaginary student that always sat in the extra seat in the classroom. Throughout the school year, Jilly took on its own personality and became a part of the class. Next time you gaze at the night sky, say hello to Jilly, the imaginary sixth-grader from Success Unlimited.
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TEA Visits Montgomery Museum TEA Academy students recently visited the Freedom Rides Museum in downtown Montgomery.
Montgomery Academy Raises Funds for Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama
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SUA Lower Campus Honors Students’ Accomplishments
Success Unlimited Academy’s lower campus held its annual Honors Day recently. This awards ceremony is designed to recognize all students, but in particular those with “A” honor roll, “A-B” honor roll, perfect attendance and Christian character. Lower Campus Principal Bonnie Nail, along with founder and Headmaster Susan Alred, presented the annual awards to the respective winners. Winners were presented medals, trophies and certificates for their respective awards. Pictured are just a few of the students being recognized with award certificates.
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
This school year, The Montgomery Academy supported the Cancer Wellness Foundation as its chosen non-profit organization. During an assembly, leaders of the studentled H.E.A.R.T. club presented Wendy Anzalone, executive director of the foundation, a check in the amount of $16,484.25. Throughout the year, members of the H.E.A.R.T. club and students from the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools served their community and raised money for local cancer patients. Students provided chemo comfort care packages to patients containing items intended to make them more comfortable during their treatments. Students organized a Think Pink! football game last fall during the MA vs. Trinity football game as well as supported the Coaches vs. Cancer basketball fundraiser this winter. “The Cancer Wellness Foundation staff, board of directors, and certainly, our patients are so grateful for their hard work and generous spirits this year,” said Anzalone about the partnership. “What an honor to work with such fine young men and women committed to helping those in their community who need their help. The teachers and coaches of the Academy create an environment where students realize the importance of giving back and facilitate the opportunity for students to do just that. Thank you to The Montgomery Academy for supporting the Cancer Wellness Foundation and helping cancer patients in the River Region!
Macon East Honors Marjory Johnson for 50 Years of Teaching
The Macon East Academy family honored Marjory Johnson for 50 years of service as a 4th-grade teacher. A 1965 graduate of the former Macon Academy in Tuskegee, Johnson returned to spend her entire teaching career at her alma mater after receiving her degree in elementary education from Auburn University. The student body, faculty and administration, along with family and former teachers, assembled to unveil a plaque naming the lower school building in her honor. Special guest Jimmy Wilson said that Johnson could be credited with leading the effort to move the school to its current location in Cecil as enrollment declined at the Tuskegee campus. A former classmate of Johnson and former coach and headmaster at MA, it was an honor to have Wilson on hand for the ceremony. Johnson was humbled by the ovation and the surprise unveiling of the sign that now hangs at the entrance to the lower school facility. She expressed her love and devotion to Macon East and added what a joy it has been to teach so many students throughout 50 years, including her sons and grandchildren. 24
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Evangel Students Enjoy Accelerated Reading Party
Evangel Christian Academy’s elementary students participated in the Accelerated Reading program through the year. The students who met their AR goals were invited to a special celebration at Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park. As part of the celebration, the students enjoyed lunch at the site. They also enjoyed the various activities the park provided. The students look forward to reading next year.
ACA Competes at UCA Cheer Camp
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Alabama Christian Academy’s varsity and junior varsity cheerleading squads participate in the UCA Cheer Camp with the following results. Varsity: 1st place rally routine; Superior squad; Superior blue ribbon sideline, rally routine and cheer; Spirit stick; All American: Madison Parker, Maddie Grace Wingard, Mikey Peavy; Pin in forward: Madison Parker, Mikey Peavy Junior high: 1st sideline; Superior squad; Superior blue ribbon sideline, cheer and rally routine; All American: Anne Welch Hilyer, Olivia Justiss, Layney Adams, Marcy Gregory; Pin it forward: Olivia Justiss, Anne Welch Hilyer, Katerica Taylor.
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Montgomery County Schools
ACA Softball Player Makes, Breaks Records Alabama Christian Academy softball player Haley Pittman had a recordbreaking year! As a junior, Pittman set a new school record for career strikeouts with 1208. She also picked up her 100th career win. Pittman even tied the school record for RBIs in a game with 8 against Trinity.
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BTW Piano Students Shine at State Auditions
Several Booker T. Washington Magnet High piano students distinguished themselves at the Alabama Music Teachers Association State Piano Auditions held at the University of Alabama. Myeonghwan “Kai” Choi received Outstanding with Winner’s Recital. Marcus Daniel, Xavier Carmichael, Camille Farrow, Christina Rollins, Hyobeen Shin and Kirsten Wallace received Outstanding with Honorable Mention. Kirsten Jones, Kirsten Wallace, Lydia Williams and Daeyeong “Emily” Yoo received Outstanding. Miracle Carter, Jack Gillet, DeMarieo James, Erin Otts and Lydia Vaughn received Excellent.
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Montgomery Catholic Celebrates Class of 2019
On the evening of Tuesday, May 21, the 144th graduating class of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School gathered on the football field of the MCPS middle and high school campus. Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi, Superintendent of Education Gwendolyn Byrd, Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar and High School Principal Justin Castanza were joined by Rev. James Dean, Rev. Linn Harbour, Rev. Victor Ingalls, Rev. Nicholas Napolitano, Rev. Francis Sofie, Rev. Alex Valladares and Rev. Wayne Youngman as special guests of the class. Salutatorian Austin Graham Collett, bottom right, and valedictorian Reagan Antonia Herbek, top right, addressed their fellow graduates, special guests, family and friends after the class received their diplomas from Archbishop Rodi. The Class of 2019, along with alumni, sang the Montgomery Catholic Alma Mater “Catholic, Our Refuge,” led by Montgomery Catholic teachers Kerri Moore and Kate Berry. Members of the junior and sophomore class hosted the graduates and their families at a reception in the Dolly Barranco Center following the ceremony. The 92 members of the Class of 2019 have earned $17 million in scholarship offers from 31 colleges and universities across the United States. The top 20 percent of the class achieved an average ACT composite score of 30.5 and GPAs ranging from 4.0-4.4. Graduates include a Jimmy Hitchcock Award winner, an AP Scholar with Distinction, eight collegiate athletes, three of whom received NCAA Division 1 scholarships, eight future members of the Armed Forces, including two recipients of the National Army ROTC Scholarship, two Eagle Scouts, members of the State Championship boys’ cross country team, members of the State Championship girls’ cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track teams, members of the VEX Robotics World Championship Team, a member of the Wheelchair Basketball National Championship Team, a future member of the Auburn University flag line, an All-State Solo Competition winner, a nationally recognized drum major, members of the All-State Band, Boys and Girls State attendees, and a Governor’s School attendee. Photo credits: Total Image
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Macon East Softball State Runners-Up
The Macon East Academy Lady Knights softball team finished the 2019 season with a record of 51-18 and were 3A Region Champs. As has become tradition, the girls headed into the state tournament at Lagoon Park as the team to beat, holding six state champion titles in the last eight years. A loss early in the final day of play to Glenwood put the team in the losers’ bracket. They battled back into the final game of the division AAA tournament, but fell again to Glenwood (4-3) to take home their second State Runner-Up trophy in those eight years. Devyn Debardelaben, Kadence Ward and Caroline Capps earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team. Madisyn Kennedy, Dawn Johnson, Kayle Bell and TJ James represented MEA in the senior AISA All Star game on June 4 at Lagoon Park, and Emi Lott and Caroline Capps played on the junior team.
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ACA 2019 State Track Meet Results
Junior Judson Hardin placed 2nd in the State (4A) for the 3200! He also ran and reached a new Personal Record of 7 seconds!
Senior Mary Vander Sewell placed 2nd in Javelin. This was her fourth appearance competing at the state level.
Senior Matthew Dauphin placed 3rd in the State for Pole Vault. Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Montgomery Academy Art Teacher Named Teacher of the Year
Holy Cross Celebrates 2019 Commencement
Graduation ceremonies are always such a proud moment for the Holy Cross Episcopal School family and friends. Seeing each 6th-grader make his or her way down the aisle through beautiful Kelley Hall each year with “Pomp and Circumstance” being played by Mrs. Fain is inspiring and emotional. Sixth-grade teacher Patricia Bye’s inspiring remarks are presented before the students come forward to receive their diplomas. Fain directed the 5th-grade chorus as they sang “Child of Tomorrow,” which was a poignant selection for the ceremony. A PowerPoint presentation of memories always follows the ceremony, followed by a reception in Melanie Kelley hall with family and friends. Standing from left are: Steadman Meadows, Gabe Krause, Ava Stuart and Andrew Peavy; seated: Sanai Burton, Broderick Williams and Stott Blancas.
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Montgomery Academy Upper School art teacher and Director of the Arts Connie Deal has been named the Alabama State Council on the Arts Visual Arts Achievement Program Teacher of the Year. This award goes to a teacher who exhibits excellence through the quality and amount of student work placed in the statewide exhibit and portfolio competition. “It is because of the high quality of my students’ work that I was the recipient this year,” said Deal. “And, I would be remiss if I did not recognize our superior Montgomery Academy administration, board, and POA who believe in and support professional development for teachers. They funded a summer experience last year that inspired me to deepen my curriculum and influence my students to succeed.”
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Montgomery County Schools
Bear Awarded Check for Kids Marathon Participation
TEA Academy Crowns 2019 Scholarship Queen
TEA Academy crowned Rayven Adkison the school’s first Ms. TEA Academy Scholarship Queen.
Bear Exploration Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology was awarded a check for $500 after being named for its outstanding achievement in registration and participation in the 9th Annual Five Points of Life Kids Marathon for 2019. The Kids Marathon is presented by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers partnering with the YMCA GoodTimes Program each year to bring this incredible event to the community. More than 500 students ranging from K-8th grades participated in the fun run representing schools in Montgomery and surrounding counties. Bear had the most registrations along with highest percentage of “day-of-event” participation. Congrats to Coach Sue-Anne Reynolds and also to school Principal Elizabeth Hill for encouraging their students to focus on health and wellness with activities such as the annual marathon.
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Macon East Celebrates Kindergarten and Sixth-Grade Graduations
Dressed in white robes with royal blue MEA shawls, the Macon East Academy kindergarten class processional didn’t leave a dry eye among the audience of parents and grandparents. The commencement ceremony included poems, songs, a touching slide show, and the presentation of diplomas. Surprised by the cheers and a gift from their 6thgrade buddies, the young students proudly exited the auditorium as first-graders. Following the kindergarten program, the 6th-grade students took the stage for the final time as lower school students. Along with songs they had performed at the AISA Choral Festival and the Macon East Alma Mater, several students shared essays they had written about their school and family. As Headmaster Lott presented their diplomas and academic awards, the students were excitedly promoted to junior high.
BTW Student Wins Google for Doodle National Competition
Booker T. Washington Magnet High Visual Arts student Alanna Johnson is the Doodle for Google National Art Competition winner for the state of Alabama. Johnson is one of 53 students in the nation to win the award at the state level. She will now move on to the National Finalist Level. Her design will be featured in the Doodle for Google Gallery, and the winning design nationally will be featured on Google.com. Google holds the contest for K-12 students throughout the nation every year, challenging students to create doodle’s based on a theme. This year’s theme was “When I grow up, I hope...”
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Montgomery County Schools
BTW Students Take Photos at EJI Anniversary Celebration
Booker T. Washington Magnet high photography students captured some images from the Equal Justice Initiative’s 30th Anniversary Celebration. Photography teacher Emily Thomas joined students in spending time with the staff, alumni, and honorees, including Anthony Ray Hinton, author of The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row. The students were rewarded for their photographic work with free tickets to the EJI 30th Anniversary Celebration and Concert.
ACA Softball Team State Champs
Alabama Christian Academy student Haley Pittman was named 4A Player of the Year, while Baylee Perkins made All-State and Monica Willingham was named honorable mention. Alabama Christian, with two All-State players this season, has had at least one every year since the ASWA started naming All-State softball teams. Pittman was a first-teamer and Perkins a second-teamer in Class 4A. The Eagles have had 31 overall All-State players in the last 17 seasons. The ACA Lady Eagles brought home the blue after winning the State Championship Title.
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Montgomery Academy Juniors Attend HOBY
Rising Montgomery Academy juniors Brystol Habermacher, Stewart Miller and Garrett Scott were selected by the Upper School Faculty to attend the HOBY - Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership 2019 Alabama Seminar at Troy University. For more than five decades, Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) has inspired young people to make a difference and become catalysts for positive change in their home, school, workplace and community. As America’s foremost youth leadership organization, HOBY has a long and impressive history of successfully motivating youth and volunteers to outstanding leadership. HOBY programs provide students selected by their schools to participate in unique leadership training, service-learning and motivationbuilding experiences.
Floyd/Baldwin Cheerleading Squad Wins Several Awards at Cheer Camp
The combined cheerleading squad of Floyd Middle Magnet and Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet placed in several categories at the Alabama State University Cheer Camp. The squad won first place in Sideline, second place in Cheer, first place in Xtreme Routine, second place in Day Spirit Stick and the Team Award. The team’s motto is “Hard work works harder than luck!” They are led by Kanzyyarkia Williams, athletic director for both Floyd and Baldwin. Williams also was chosen as the MPS Middle School Athletic Director of the Year.
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Evangel’s Kindergarten Class Graduates
The K5 class at Evangel Christian Academy concluded the year with a program and graduation ceremony May 23. The students began by sharing Bible verses and songs. The audience then enjoyed a visit from various Bible characters. The children also shared math skills, reading rules, and the process by which they learned to read through songs and skits. There was even an appearance from a superhero, “Super E.” When the students left to change into their caps and gowns, the parents enjoyed a video presentation celebrating the students from birth to graduation. The graduates later returned dressed in traditional caps and gowns and awards were presented to the students.
Holy Spirit Student Awarded Full Tuition
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School awarded Haely McBeal the Padre Pio Endowed Scholarship full tuition for 20192020. She just completed sixth grade at Holy Spirit Catholic School. Haely is the daughter of Evangelene and Mitch McBeal of Montgomery. Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Macon East Graduates Class of 2019
Macon East Academy’s 36-member Class of 2019 celebrated completion of its high school days at a commencement ceremony May 20 at First Baptist Church. Earning more than $1.7 million in academic and athletic scholarships, the class was accepted into 40 colleges and universities. Eight student athletes will continue playing baseball, football, softball and volleyball at the collegiate level. Nine students proudly wore the 13+ pin on their robes representing their years at Macon East Academy. Dawn Johnson addressed the class as valedictorian, and Isabella Fagan gave the salutatory address.
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Montgomery Academy Girls’ Soccer Wins 3rd Straight State Championship Montgomery Academy won its third straight state girls’ soccer championship and seventh in nine years with a 2-1 win over Southside-Gadsden in Huntsville. The Eagles, after winning the 1A-3A title the last two years, stepped up to 4A-5A this season. Hayes Jenkins and Brooke Horne scored off Tara Katz’s assists, while Millie Stevenson made 10 saves. Katz was named tournament MVP. MA (22-3-1) won its five playoff games by a combined score of 30-4.
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Montgomery County Schools
Holy Cross Announces Statewide Honor
Holy Cross Episcopal School once again has been named the statewide winner of the pop top competition that it participates in yearly to help the Ronald McDonald House in Birmingham. Raising money for the Ronald McDonaled House makes a difference in the lives of families and their newborn babies.
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ACA Helps with Miracle League Event
Alabama Christian Academy students had the profound pleasure to participate in the Montgomery Miracle League in Pike Road and Ray Thorington Park. It was life changing for the students to help assist this event and simply cheer on these athletes.
BTW Art Students Create White House Easter Egg
The Booker T. Washington Magnet High National Art Honor Society was selected to create the White House Easter Egg Roll 2019 State Egg Design. BTW students designed the Alabama egg that was included in the Easter Egg Roll celebration and on display in the White House. The students were tasked to create a design that included state symbols and specific colors. The Alabama State Department of Education tapped the BTW students to create the design. Montgomery Parents I July 2019
STJ Students Practice Spanish Speaking Skills through Flipgrid
High school students in Spanish 3 and Spanish 4 at Saint James School have been part of a 21st century multimedia pen pal program (of sorts) with parallel students at UMS-Wright in Mobile. Saint James School’s Spanish teacher, Rhea Grate, worked with the department chair of UMS-Wright World Languages, Mirella Chavez, to create a connection among their students via Flipgrid, an online collaborative tool featuring a video discussion platform. The primary goal of the Flipgrid exercise between the two schools was to encourage and reinforce the practice of extemporaneous oral communication in the target language, Spanish. The students began with videos introducing themselves to each other—conversing only in Spanish. They continued the conversations through the school year and the two teachers planned a field trip to wrap up the year. Grate and the Saint James Spanish 3 and 4 students traveled to Mobile for an immersive day of interaction with their peers at UMS-Wright. “We spoke primarily in Spanish while there; the students mixed together into teams to do a breakout—in Spanish—that Ms. Chavez and I created after we took a wonderful tour of their campus,” Grate said of the field trip. “After the breakout, we enjoyed a delicious lunch together at a Mexican restaurant. This project has been very effective; we have already begun developing plans for next year, starting our Flipgrid videos in the fall and welcoming the students from UMS-Wright to our campus next year.” 36
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Churchill Holds School Blood Drive
Churchill Academy students joined forces to participate in a blood drive through the American Red Cross to benefit the River Region. Lower school and high school students reached out to family members and friends to encourage donations, and eligible high school students were allowed to donate blood with parental permission. The schoolwide goal for donations was 30 units of blood, and that goal was met. It was a great day of service at Churchill Academy!
Montgomery Academy Celebrates Class of 2019
Since joining the Upper School in the Fall of 2015, The Montgomery Academy Class of 2019 has claimed numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 55 students, with acceptances to 72 different institutions of higher learning, they will be attending 27 different colleges and universities this fall. Forty-five members of this class have been offered a total of $7,427,025 in meritbased scholarship money. The Class of 2019 celebrates the recognition of two students being named National Merit Finalists, and 20 students being named AP Scholars by the college board. Members of this class have played vital roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing nine state championships, while at the same time contributing to the visual and performing arts with local, state and national recognition. This includes multiple qualifiers for the state theater festival, a national scholastic award winner in the visual arts, the consistent national prominence of the choral program as one of the top programs in the country, and the speech and debate program’s continued recognition by the National Speech & Debate Association as being in the top 1% in the nation.
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Montgomery County Schools
ACA’s Josie Barlow Signs with Faulkner University
BTW Student Attends Summer Art Program
BTW Magnet High School visual arts student Emily Turner received a $650 Art Portfolio Silver Award Scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design’s summer seminar! During her weeklong stay at SCAD, she took two collegelevel art courses in sequential art and illustration.
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
Alabama Christian Academy senior Josie Barlow signed her letter of intent to play basketball with Faulkner University in early April. She has attended ACA since kindergarten and has played basketball since then. When asked what ACA has meant to her, Josie said, “This sounds so cliche but it has actually been my home away from home. I’ve loved every minute of being here and wouldn’t change it for anything. I know I say it a lot that I’m so ready to graduate and leave but I’m going to miss this school and the relationships I’ve made, more than anything. It makes me feel good going to college knowing I received the best high school education I could while still growing and strengthening my spiritual life. I’ve truly been blessed to be able to attend this school and it comforts me to know I will be leaving both of my younger sisters in good hands. Having the constant love and encouragement from everybody here has meant the world to me all of these years and I will miss my ACA family a lot!”
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MEA Participates in Girls on the Run
Girls on the Run is a 10-week youth development program for girls in grades three through six. It centers around group sessions where the girls discuss and learn strategies on how to successfully handle the many issues girls face in today’s society. At the same time, they are training to run a 5K at the end of the 10 weeks. There is also an emphasis on making a positive impact in their community and beyond. The girls choose, plan and implement a project to help a local organization. This was Macon East Academy’s first year to participate in the Girls on the Run program, and it was a wonderful addition to the school’s elementary extracurricular activities. Thanks to the girls’ coach Kathy Loomis, along with Kayla Boroff and Taylor Anne Surles, for serving as mentors and role models. On May 4, the girls and their running buddies completed a 5K at Cloverdale Park.
Evangel’s Senior Class Graduates
Evangel Christian Academy’s graduation ceremony was held on May 18. Parents, faculty and friends gathered together to mark this milestone in the students’ lives. Pastor Michael Rippy, senior pastor of Evangel Church and president of ECA, addressed the students and their guests. The valedictorian for the graduating class was Brandon Martin and the salutatorian was Skylar Brooks. During the ceremony a video presentation was shown highlighting each graduate’s life. After the video, the graduates presented roses to their parents. The graduates also honored the memory of Dena Bittle by laying roses in a chair reserved in her honor. Bittle was a former ECA teacher who taught the seniors in fifth grade. 39
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Montgomery County Schools
Saint James Art Students Earn High Accolades from Juried Exhibition
The School at Sylvan Starts New Elementary Program
The School at Sylvan has exciting news to share! Beginning this fall for the 2019-20 school year, we will offer all-day classes for elementary grades first through sixth. By expanding and adding this new program, it will give a great option for those families who need an all-day learning program. The all-day classes will start at 8:30 a.m. and will end at 3:30 p.m. with a scheduled time to eat a packed lunch. After lunch, teachers will provide fun activities and educational learning. Call our center to learn more at (334) 262-0043.
Four Saint James High School Visual Arts and Advanced Placement art students had their work selected among 360 entries for the 2019 Statewide Juried High School Art Exhibition this spring. Only 54 works were chosen by the jurors. The Shelby County Arts Council, the UAB Department of Art and Art History, and the University of Montevallo hosted the exhibit. The Saint James students whose works were chosen to exhibit included:Kylie Eng, Amanda Grate, Amari Simmons and Virginia Williams. Of those students, two were Honorable Mention recipients: Grate for Mixed Media and Williams for Excellent Technique – Printmaking. Their teacher is Evelyn Shoults. From left are Kylie Eng, Virginia Williams, Amanda Grate and Amari Simmons.
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Montgomery Catholic Announces Wulf-Dieter Koch as Head Boys Soccer Coach Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School has hired WulfDieter Koch as the new head coach for boys’ soccer. “We are happy to welcome Coach Koch to our Montgomery Catholic coaching staff,” said Anne Ceasar, president of Montgomery Catholic. “We have known him as a parent for many years and are thrilled that he joins us now as a staff member. I am certain that he will guide our soccer program to the next level.” Koch most recently was the head men’s soccer coach at Auburn University at Montgomery and comes to Catholic with a stellar Montgomery Parents I July 2019
coaching record and more than 34 years of experience playing and coaching soccer at every level. He holds a United Soccer Coaches Master Coach Diploma and United States Soccer Federation “A” and “Youth” License. In addition to his collegiate coaching positions, Koch is a Boys’ Academy Coach for the Montgomery Capital City Streaks. “We are so excited to have Coach Koch here at Montgomery Catholic,” said Athletic Director Daniel Veres. “He brings such great knowledge, experience, and a winning pedigree to our soccer program.” Koch began his collegiate career, first playing and then coaching, at the University of Maine at Fort Kent, where he would eventually be inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame. He coached at Spring Hill College for two seasons before arriving at AUM. The second-winningest head coach of the AUM men’s soccer program, Koch retired from AUM in 2018 after 12 seasons with the men’s team and three seasons with the women’s team. The men’s team won an SSAC Tournament Championship, was runner-up in three SSAC tournaments, and 40
competed in four NAIA National Tournaments. During his time with the women’s team, he led them to the NAIA National Tournament in 2004 and three NAIA Region XIII Tournament appearances. In total, he has led nine teams to the NAIA National Tournament. “We play in a stellar and very difficult area with great teams, and we want to be competitive year in and year out,” Koch said. “As a coach, it is my job to take the studentathlete out of his comfort zone and make him understand that each training session and game is a microcosm of life. You will have ups and downs and it matters how you react.” A native of Nuremberg, Germany, Koch enjoys sports of all kinds but is especially passionate about soccer. He is a supporter of the FC Bayern Munich soccer team and has a love for sports teams from Germany and from Boston, Mass. He and his wife, Jane, have three adult children: Benjamin, Alanna and Joshua, MCPS class of 2017. Photo courtesy of Auburn University at Montgomery www.montgomeryparents.com
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Churchill Academy held closing ceremonies for Lower School, Middle School, and High School classes May 21 and 22. Ceremonies were held in the multipurpose room on campus, and attended by Churchill faculty and staff, students, family, and friends. High School students were each given individual awards showcasing their “adjective accolades” as decided on by high school instructors. The Winston Churchill Awards for each grade were also presented. Student participants (both donors and student coordinators) for the school’s Red Cross Blood Drive were awarded medallions for their efforts in making an impact across the River Region. Lower and Middle School students celebrated individual achievements in academic and personal awards along with the Winston Churchill Awards for each grade level. They also were awarded Red Cross medallions for encouraging the participation of family and friends in the school blood drive. Character Counts awards were given for each grade to showcase the core values of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Last but not least, Middle School 8th-grade students were recognized and officially promoted into High School.
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It’s July, and our thoughts turn to remembering the grand ideas that a group of people had 243 years ago and the resolve they had to bring to fruition a new country. We are blessed to be the recipients of the fruits that they planted so long ago. Our founders were educated, thoughtful, and determined, and started a country that would become a beacon of light for the world. Our country is far from perfect, our democratic-republic form of government leaves much to be desired, and our capitalistic economy has many shortcomings. All this may be said when we examine ourselves, yet when we look at every other country in the world we see that we have the best country, the best government, and the best economy in the world!
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
As an educator, I realize that if we are to continue as a light to the world, we must have a well, educated populace. Our children need to learn to be excellent communicators, problem solvers, and continual learners. They must be thinkers, able to innovate by taking things they know and applying them to new situations and problems, and have the creativity to create the solutions that don’t currently exist. Everyone in education is working today to produce graduates with these skills. Pike Road Schools are leading the way in helping our students prepare to lead this country and the world into a fast moving future. When the AdvancEd accreditation team visited Pike Road and interviewed our students, they said they had never seen a place where the students could articulate what they were learning and whythey were learning quite the like Pike Road students could. We look forward to the day when our graduates,
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armed with the aforementioned skills, integrity, and energy, take their places as the leaders of their generation. We at Pike Road Schools are hopeful that you all take the time to reflect upon our great country’s history, enjoy some time with family and friends, watch some fireworks, cook out on the grill, make some ice cream, eat some watermelon, and enjoy time with friends and family. And as you enjoy these things, take heart, because the next generation of Pike Road Patriots is preparing to build upon the work of the generations that have come before them. May God richly bless you!
Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 28 years. He has earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Chuck Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his ninth year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.
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Alumnus holding MIT Degree \ Science Olympiad \ Character Building Programs \ Music and Art
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Spark curiosity.
You want your child to be given the opportunity to explore the world around them. You want them to have an excellent guide. One who can inspire them to follow their natural curiosities. And spark the difference that will set them on their journey of academic success. This is Catholic. Montgomer y C atholic Preparator y S cho ol
Grades K4 - 12
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Pike Road Schools Welcomes Borens to the Athletic Program
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Pike Road Schools named Charlie Boren as the new athletic director for Pike Road High School (PRHS). He will also coach the offensive line for the Patriots. His son Blake Boren is also joining the PRHS coaching staff and will serve as the offensive coordinator for the Patriots. Both men are ready to start having an impact on the team this summer. “Fans can expect an up-tempo offense to take the field in the fall,” Blake Boren said. “I will start transitioning into the AD position over the summer and begin working with our football summer conditioning program in June,” Charlie Boren said. “It is obvious that the Pike Road community is a very special place and I am excited to be a part of the Pike Road family. It’s exciting to be a part of the building process at Pike Road High School and to have the opportunity to work in a community with so much love and support for its local schools.” Charlie Boren worked for Faulkner University for six years. He coached running backs and served as an assistant head coach. During his tenure at Faulkner, he was promoted to head football coach and led the Eagles from 2014 to 2017.Charlie brings 11 years of experience as an athletic director to the PRS leadership position. Blake Boren comes to PRHS from Mountain Brook High School, where he was the offensive coordinator and wide receiver coach. He was also an assistant coach at Faulkner.
PRS Ends Successful School Year with Staff Appreciation Luncheon Pike Road Schools ended the 2018-19 school year by hosting an appreciation luncheon for all PRS employees. The Pike Road Child Nutrition Program planned and prepared a delicious spread that included ribeye steaks, roasted vegetables, bacon macaroni & cheese, and dessert parfaits. PRS School Board member Jarrod Williams and PRS Superintendent Charles Ledbetter showed their appreciation by grilling the steaks. PRS has approximately 193 full-time employees and 42 part-time employees.
Pike Road High School Learners Present Education Improvement Plan to State Superintendent
Pike Road High School history teacher Mrs. Griswell and her learners were discussing the impact a small group of people can have, no matter the age. She asked students to discuss things that could improve their lives and the lives of others, and overwhelmingly many said education upon discovering the ranking of Alabama in education nationally. From this discussion a dual project was born. The project was completed not only in history but through Mrs. Bradford’s English 11/ AP Language and Composition as well. Presentations included but were not limited to courses offered, impact and importance of a diverse faculty, how to foster student/ teacher relationships, collective teacher efficacy, conscious discipline, the need for project-based learning across the state, and later start times to increase student achievement. The project ties into civil rights and social movements standards, so learners were asked to research the Civil Rights Movement using interactive timelines and primary source documents. Then, they had to learn about another social movement from U.S. history including, but not limited to, women’s liberation, Native American movement, environmental movement, and anti-war. After they decided if those were successful movements, they compared the effectiveness of the chosen movements to that of civil rights. From there, they generated a list of what successful social movements have in common. Next, they were provided with a list of topics and resources related to education. They researched and were able to choose an avenue of change by presenting to affect change at the school, district, or state level. A group of students who met with State Superintendent Dr. Mackey shared a plan to improve Alabama’s standards to better education in Alabama. They argued this will help our economy and stop the issue of brain drain our state faces. Mackey seemed very pleased with their research and stance on the issues our state faces. Part of their presentation included an action plan that involved stakeholders, other teens, and legislators coming together in unity to solve our education problem. Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Lead Learners Take Part in Summit Boot Camp
At Pike Road High School, dedicated lead learners recently engaged in Summit Boot Camp, where they built projects from scratch and developed a resource database—all while discussing what’s best for students and best practices for implementation. The outcome is engaged learners and increased student success! Summit Learning is a digital tool that PRS uses for 7th- through 12th-grade learners. Summit Learning uses mentoring, projects and self-direction to empower students to harness their inner drive for success. In each classroom, they teach real-world skills that students will use after school; lead collaborative, hands-on projects; mentor students and develop deep relationships; and are experts not only in their subject area but also the skills and habits students need to succeed. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Jeff Hatfield Named New Pike Road Elementary Principal
After an extensive application process, Jeff Hatfield has been selected as the new principal for Pike Road Elementary School (PRES) beginning the 2019-20 school year. “I am excited to bring someone of Mr. Hatfield’s background and experience into our system,” said Dr. Charles Ledbetter, superintendent of Pike Road Schools. “He has served as the principal in a school similar to PRES that has successfully engaged in learner-centered education by using makerspaces and project-based learning along with managing all stakeholders in the school family and supporting lead learners to ensure the success of every learner. We are eager to welcome him to the PRS family!” Hatfield comes to Pike Road Schools from Heard Magnet Elementary School in Dothan. Hatfield’s professional experience includes 16 years in education, seven of which he has served as an administrator. His experience includes sixth-grade teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal and principal. “I am excited to be part of a team that truly believes in a studentcentered approach to learning,” Hatfield said. “My goal is to ensure we work together to create relevant, meaningful learning experiences for our children. This school system is doing amazing things. The commitment to relevant learning and fostering student-ownership is important to me. The passion for education within this community is evident, and my family and I look forward to being part of it.”
Pike Road Middle School Cheer Team Participates in Cheer Camp
The Pike Road Middle School cheer team that is comprised of 14 girls in seventh and eighth grades participated in a four-day cheer camp to prepare for the upcoming season. The camp was held at Bama Blaze Elite Cheer in Montgomery. Keisha Burrow and Nic Laracuente, owners of Bama Blaze, led the camp. They worked with the girls on chants, motions, stunts, tumbling and a routine. In addition, Sparkle Watson, a graduate student in counseling at Auburn University Montgomery, provided a leadership and team building session to help the new team bond. Camp concluded with a showcase for family and friends. The showcase gave the team an opportunity to perform the skills they worked so hard on for an audience. The team certainly looked ready for football season!
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The 20182019 school year is officially in the books, and what a great school year it was! Students of Autauga County Schools grew and flourished. With every ending comes a new beginning; this is the time of the year for celebrating both. As the graduates of the class of 2019 start the next phase of their lives, I wish them the very best in their future endeavors. I would like to recognize the valedictorians and salutatorians at each of our high schools. Autaugaville – Valedictorians, Jordan Benefield and Amber Frazier; Salutatorian, Kiara Tyus Billingsley – Valedictorian, Shelby Donaldson; Salutatorian, Andrew Glasscock
Marbury High – Valedictorian, Hunter Warr; Salutatorian, Reagan Merrick Prattville High – Valedictorian, Sawyer Knott; Salutatorian, Kendra Jacobs I am privileged to work alongside so many fine educators in Autauga County Schools. I cannot say enough about how outstanding our teachers are. I would like to recognize a retired educator that served the children of Autauga County for many years. Coach Trent Miller was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, Alabama Chapter, on May 4. Coach Miller is a wonderful individual who spent countless hours instilling in young people the skills needed to succeed in all aspects of life. Coach Miller will be permanently recognized at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Summer is traditionally associated with relaxation, but in Autauga County, it is a time for renewal and revitalization. Striving for excellence is a year round job. We have facility enhancement activities underway
2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690
throughout our county! Capital improvement projects such as: painting, paving, pressure washing, parking lot restriping, along with new carpet and tile installations are essential to maintaining and improving our schools. As always, Autauga County Schools is looking toward our future! We look forward to kicking off a great 2019-2020 school year at our Teacher Institute on July 31. Our teachers will participate in professional development at department, grade, school, and district levels starting August 1. We hope our students are enjoying the last weeks of summer vacation because the first day of school for them will be Tuesday, August 6. I am excited about this school year and anticipate it will be the best year ever! Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.
460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411
Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Prattville High Graduate Honored With Lutzie 43 Scholarship
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PCA Graduate Receives Harry Denman Award
Amber Gay, a 2019 graduate of Prattville Christian Academy, was honored as the high school recipient of the prestigious Harry Denman Award for the Alabama/West Florida district. This recipient is committed to consistently introducing others to the Good News of Jesus Christ in all ministry settings. Gay is a dedicated member at Robinson Springs United Methodist Church. She embodies the character and passion of a disciple of Christ—proclaiming His love and message for the purpose of making other disciples of Christ.
Prattville High School graduate Ashtyn Grace King is one of 11 recipients nationwide to receive The Lutzie 43 Foundation PFL (Prepared for Life) Scholarship. This scholarship is given annually in memory of Philip Francis Lutzenkirchen (PFL). Philip was a tight end (#43) at Auburn University, where he was a starter for the 2010 championship team. Philip was killed in an alcohol-related car accident in 2014. His family started The Lutzie 43 Foundation and his father wrote a curriculum entitled “43 Lessons to Legacy.” These 43 lessons are based on 43 words that describe Philip’s character such as steadfast, honor, giving, spirit and sportsmanship. Each lesson was written by a family member, friend, teammate or coach. Some notable people to contribute were Gus Malzahn, Gene Chizik, Chip Lindsey, Tim Hudson, Bo Jackson, Nick Saban and the late Rod Bramblett. King completed the curriculum as part of a small group project for her leadership class at Prattville High School. As a candidate for the scholarship, she submitted an essay on how the curriculum impacted her, peer and mentor letters, and her transcript. She was presented the scholarship by Philip’s father, Mike Lutzenkirchen. “It was an honor to meet Mike Lutzenkirchen, to hear him tell Philip’s story and to know that the family felt I was a worthy ambassador of The Lutzie 43 Foundation,” King said. She is also a recipient of the Prattville-Autauga Character Coalition Scholarship. In addition, King is an active member of Prattville First United Methodist Church and will be attending Auburn University this fall majoring in Human Development & Family Studies. She will be a member of the Auburn University Marching Band Flagline. From left are King’s father, Chris, who is the Prattville High School band director; Mike Lutzenkirchen; King; and King’s mother, Kim, a preschool teacher with Autauga County Schools.
Local Church Feeds PJHS Football Team
Thank you, Springhill AME Zion Church, for providing the after-practice meal for Prattville Junior High football team! What a great ministry and service you provide for these kids.
Prattville Students Become Authors/Illustrators
In this Prattville Primary class, each student wrote his or her own book illustrated with pictures. 47
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Autauga County Schools
Prattville Christian Visits Washington, DC
More than 50 eighth-grade students and chaperones from Prattville Christian Academy invaded Washington D.C. in June to soak up the rich history of our country! Among the sites they visited were Arlington National Cemetery, the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown soldier, Mount Vernon, Library of Congress, Natural History Museum and Air and Space Museum, as well as several war memorials.
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Prattville Fire Department visited Prattville Primary for Career Day.
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Field Day in Prattville
Mrs. Moon’s class enjoyed Field Day at Prattville Primary School.
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BIRTHDAY PARTIES at the PRATTVILLE YMCA
• Play Center Parties • Gymnastics Parties • In the Gym Parties • Kickball & Wiffle Ball • Swim Parties (summer only) prattvilleymca.org • (334) 358-YMCA Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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The 20182019 school year is behind us and we are busy preparing for another exciting school year. Hiring new staff, facilities maintenance, extracurricular activities, and the summer meal program are
all in full swing! I am happy to report that we are close to 100% staffed for the 2018-2019 school year. Our maintenance department is diligently working to complete facilities upgrades before students return in August. Our technology department constantly strives to keep our network strong and healthy to ensure that the necessary resources are available to support studentcentered learning. Administrators, teachers, and other staff members participate in various professional development sessions and conferences related to their areas of responsibility. Curriculum planning for
grade levels and subject areas began back in the spring and continues throughout the summer. Teachers have already begun preparing their classrooms to be ready to meet their new students in August. Students are involved in elementary summer camps, athletic practices, band camps, middle and high school summer school, 21st Century Community Learning Center activities, and Elmore County Technical Center’s Camp Discovery for rising 9th graders. This summer marks our 5th year of participation in the USDA Summer Food Service Program. This program allows us to feed students involved in summer school and/or any extracurricular activities as well as any individual 18 years of age or younger. We have 4 school cafeterias in operation which are also serving sites, and we provide meals to over 30 school/ extracurricular activities and community organizations. The program began on May 28 and will continue through August 6, except for July 4. Approximately 5,000 breakfast and lunch meals are served daily
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at no cost to the system or the children receiving the meals. At the end of the program, that equates to 245,000 meals! Most importantly, however, we can provide nutritious meals to as many children as possible when school is not in session. Feedback from the school activities and community programs participating in this program has been overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to continuing to provide this valuable service to our schools and community. The 2019-2020 school year is fast approaching, and we are looking forward to another great year. Our number one goal in Elmore County is to help EVERY student reach his or her full potential academically, socially, and emotionally—every student empowered, every student succeeds! Thank you for partnering with us to make this happen! Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.
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Elmore County Schools
Wetumpka Middle Cheer Team Competes at Camp Girls from the Wetumpka Middle School cheer team made semi-finals for the “Jump Off;” won the tight rope game; had two All-Americans; won the WHALE of the Day; first place on their rally routine; Superior Team Blue Ribbon; and Spirit Stick. They are coached by LaToya Davis.
Elmore County High Participates in Girls State Ella Watts, a finishing junior from Elmore County High School, represented her school at Girls State in Tuscaloosa. Her high point was meeting Alabama’s former state treasurer Young Boozer and having him give her the lapel pin off his jacket. Thank you to those who take the time to share their passion for public service and invest in the lives, and education, of these young women.
WHS Auxiliary Attends Summer Camps
Wetumpka High School’s Pride of the Tribe Auxiliary started summer camps with Spin Clinic in Pelham hosted by Alta Marea Winterguard from the University of Alabama. Other members of the Auxiliary attended Spin Clinics throughout June. Other camps that they attended include Crimsonette Camp in Tuscaloosa and Sound of the South camp in Troy.
ECHS Senior Receives Cox Scholarship
ECTC Helps with WES Career Fair
Paul and Sandie Cox were honored to present the Peyton Elizabeth Cox Memorial Scholarship to Alyssa Beam from Elmore County High School. Alyssa was chosen as this year’s recipient based on her character, impressive potential, and commitment to and passion for the game of softball. She will attend the University of Alabama in Huntsville this fall.
Elmore County Technical Center students from various programs participated in Wetumpka Elementary School’s 4th-grade career fair. Students were able to visit several industry clusters with hands-on activities in each including drone flying by our Aviation Technology program, donning turnout gear in Public Safety & Law, and CPR demonstrations in Medical Science. Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Elmore County JROTC Cadets Complete Leadership in Huntsville
These 12 cadets from Wetumpka, Holtville and Elmore County high schools successfully completed JROTC Cadet Leadership Challenge (JCLC) in Huntsville. The cadets worked on leadership, STEM-related activities (Space Camp), rappelling, zipline into the pond, drill and ceremony, color guard and dunker—while working 16 plus hours a day. To top it off, they did this camp without cell phones! Great job, Indians, Bulldogs and Panthers.
Tech Center Students Sign With Plumbing Employers
Three seniors from the Plumbing & Pipefitting program at the Elmore County Technical Center participated in a Signing Day sponsored by Klein Tools and SkillsUSA. Each student signed a letter of intent to continue education with their new employers (all local River Region companies). Front row from left are signees Judson, Greggory and Zach with their instructors and principals on the back row. This event was an inaugural effort to recognize students who are taking their CTE training to the workforce immediately after high school, and we are planning to host this event annually with a growing number of students who participate.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
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Holtville Middle Enjoys Cooking Lesson The Holtville Middle School 21st Century program visited Holtville High School’s Culinary Arts program this summer for lessons in baking and decorating cookies. The workshop incorporated science and math principles into fun kitchen activities that students were able to taste and take home.
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WMS Dance Team Rocked Camp
Wetumpka Middle School’s dance team brought home several awards from UDA Dance Camp: Performance Routine, Superior; Overall Superior Trophy; three All-American Dancers; Spirit Stick won every day; and 110% award trophy.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
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ACCEPTING ADMISSIONS APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2019 FOR GRADES 9-12 For more information, call (334) 213-0803 Admissions Office
2328 Fairlane Drive Montgomery Parents I July 2019
Academy Location
4500 Vaughn Road
AdvancED Accredited | AISA Blue Ribbon School
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BASEBALL | BASKETBALL | FOOTBALL | SOCCER | TRACK | WEIGHTLIFTING
Developing young men to their fullest potential academically and athletically in a Christ-like environment.
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TheCollegeYears Preparing Teens for Life Outside the Nest
by Lee Gonet
Career Shadowing
An Important Step in College Planning If you have followed my advice in Montgomery Parents, your child has already: 1. Taken the Career Assessment from Crown Financial Ministries (crown.org/career). 2. Received a personalized action plan applying unique personality traits, interests, skills, and values to specific career fields. 3. Examined the occupational information on O*NET (onetcenter.org/tools), which lists required tasks, skills, abilities, and education for each career as well as wages and employment trends by state. This process guides students in making wise decisions about their educations. What do they need to study in college? Why do they need to study it? To be successful, students need to understand the reasons behind the work they do, and they must set achievement goals. Remember, 30% of students drop out in their first year in college (Chronical of Higher Education)!
Why Career Shadow?
It helps students choose colleges wisely. After all, your child should attend a school that prepares them for a specific career, and 68% of college graduates never work in a field relating to their degree (CBS News, Washington Post). That is a lot of time and money for a piece of paper that is not productive. Therefore, the fourth step in searching for a college is to ensure your child wants to peruse a specific path, and spending a day or a week observing different jobs is a wise move in that direction.
Additional Benefits
Your child will write better college application essays when he or she has a clearer direction and passion for a specific field of study. Colleges will also be impressed by applications that include career shadowing experience. It demonstrates initiative, interest, leadership, self-motivation, and a willingness to learn. Finally, letters of
recommendation written by professionals who know your child will stand out to college admission boards The rest of this article is written directly to students. After all, no one wants a tag-along whose parents made the call for them!
Creating Opportunities
Ask the people you know. People associated with your parents, grandparents, extended family members, friends, neighbors, church and school officials. Call the Human Resource Department (HR) at large companies and ask about prospects. Read interviews with professionals at jobshadow.com to acquire more knowledge about different fields and help narrow down your interests. Research the people you are about to contact and the company they work for. Knowing more about the environment and business will help you ask specific questions and provide opportunities for more involvement.
Create a professional presence on Linkedin. This network generates economic opportunities for its 610 million users all over the world. You will be able to personalize your resume, creating an interactive portfolio for your contacts. Your jobshadowing prospects will be impressed by your participation in this network as long as you keep it professional. A wary contact can often be persuaded by learning more about you from this resource. Furthermore, you can stay in touch with “colleagues” and build additional relationships. Also, this provides another means by which to impress college admissions.
During an Interview
If you start with an interview, bring a notebook, turn off your phone, ask questions, and discuss expectations. Will you gain hands-on-experience or be limited to observation? Should you ask questions throughout the day or wait for an end-ofday review? What should you wear? 53
During the Shadow
Introduce yourself and shake hands with everyone you meet. Ask questions without being distracting. What do they like/ dislike most? What makes them successful? What preparation was most helpful? What specific skills do they need? What didn’t they expect about their jobs? Be prepared that throughout the day, some moments will be boring to you. Do not use this opportunity to use your cell phone! Always look interested (even when you are not), act polite (even when others are rude), and be considerate of your mentor, coworkers, and their environment (even if they treat you as a nuisance). The more interested and helpful you are, the more accepting people will be of your presence, and you want to create a good impression for future contacts.
Follow-up
Once accepted, expand those connections. For instance, if you are interested in the medical field, observe many different types of jobs: radiology, emergency, oncology, research, administration, surgery, etc.; or if you are interested in photography, investigate art, drama, video, wedding, medical, surveying, curators, etc. Use O*NET to discover more categories and subcategories of different fields. Write a professional letter of gratitude (typed), explaining why the opportunity was helpful to you, and ask for a written evaluation of your performance (include a SASE). This should give you feed-back on what prospective employers expect and make it easier to create further contacts. Many hands-on learning experiences are available to those who persevere, but you will also receive some rejections. Be persistent and don’t give up; adulthood is just around the corner.
Lee Gonet is an avid learner, speaker, educator, and world traveler. She loves challenging teenagers to excel beyond what society considers possible by teaching young people to think deeply, learn intensely, and act purposefully outside the classroom box. For example, her daughter worked abroad by 16 and her son earned his Engineering Master’s by 20. Dreams do come true. If you would like to learn more about Lee or her ACT Prep Classes, go to leestestprep.com!
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I divorced twelve years ago. Being a child of divorce myself, I knew the depths of pain that divorce can bring. I never expected to divorce myself, much less see my children go through it. Nonetheless my journey has been one of growth. While everyone’s experience is different, there is something universal about how we grieve and heal from divorce. While everyone’s experience of parenting is different, there is something universal about how we parent. Co-parenting is the process by which unmarried parents resolve to parent as a team in relative agreement with each other regarding the business of raising children.
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No one is born with these skills. We have to learn them. As a clinical sociologist, I facilitate co-parenting education groups with David Saavedra, a clinical social worker and marriage and family therapist. We share the following steps with group participants.
Begin a new relationship with your Ex - Co-parenting requires setting the old relationship aside and dealing with the grief of that old relationship outside of co-parenting. The new relationship of co-parenting is about the business of raising children. It is not about resolving old issues in the marriage that can no longer be resolved. It is about the nuts and bolts of raising children. It is about doctor appointments, transportation to ball games, homework and who will attend the parent teacher conference. Some ex-spouses can eventually be friends. The key to that friendship is the death of the old relationship.
Establish boundaries - For me, it has been easier to keep boundaries clear. In the beginning of the co-parenting relationship, I used several guidelines to avoid conflicts when communicating with my co-parent face to face, by text or by email. 1. I only talk about our daughters. 2. I keep my language and tone respectful. 3. I keep communication short. (Hint: When an issue is heated, I email or text to keep the opportunity for disrespecting one another to a minimum.)
Resolve conflict – Conflicts are part of life. Therefore, conflict is part of co-parenting. If I keep my communication short, respectful and focused on the business of raising children, conflicts are fewer and farther between. When there are disagreements, I say something like this to my daughters, I remind them (and me), moms and dads are different and we don’t always do things the same way. I say something like this. “When you are with dad you need to do what he says. When you are with me, you need to follow my rules.” I am careful to share with them,“One thing dad and I have in common is that we love our girls.” It is absolutely imperative that I never speak ill of their father. Half of their DNA comes from their father. To criticize him in their presence is to criticize my daughters.
Make a parenting agreement – Agreements prevent disagreements. Some co-parents find that written co-parenting agreements are helpful. Co-parenting agreements have more details than a visitation agreement inside a divorce decree. It can be developed by a lawyer, mediator or counselor/ therapist. To involve a professional, however, requires a fee. Faith based divorce recovery groups or non-profit services for co-parenting may be able to assist co-parents in writing parenting agreements without charging. If there is some level of cooperation between the co-parents, you may be able to write your own parenting agreement. Sample agreements can be found in many co-parenting books or co-parenting online resources. Co-parenting is a learned set of skills that benefit everyone, especially our children. mp Laura Reagan-Porras is a child advocate, sociologist and freelance writer. She is a mother of two daughters.
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Online “Camps” Fill Kids’ Summer with Learning Adventures
and shorter courses. Some of the camps have online counselors who interact with your kid. Sign up to get notified of the latest offerings. Make: Online. Free, but materials cost extra; age 12 and up. The folks behind the maker movement offer weekly camps based on themes such as Far Out Future and Flight. You get a PDF with daily activities that support the theme, such as making slime and designing and flying kites.
If managing your kids’ summer schedules is running you ragged, you may want to consider the online option. Apps, websites, and even full-fledged virtual camps offer a wide range of summer learning opportunities, and can provide the ideal activity during a “staycation” or a fill-in between other activities. Online learning also gives kids something unique: individual attention. You, a babysitter, a grandparent, or even an older sibling act as virtual camp counselors, leading -- and even learning alongside -- your kids. With many of the virtual camps below, you can mix and match activities to tailor the experience to your kids’ interests. Expect to be more involved if you go for the free, choose-your-own-adventure camps. But fee-based camps call for some adult participation, too. Check out these offerings:
Made with Code from Google. Free; age 12 and up. A wide range of projects, including making emojis, animating GIFs, and composing music, is designed to ignite a passion for coding in teen girls. (There’s no stopping boys from doing these projects, though.) The site offers inspiration stories from female tech mentors as well as ideas to make coding social, such as a coding party kit. CreativeLive, variable costs; age 14 and up. CreativeLive is a collection of educational video courses, ranging from photography to personal growth. The lessons aren’t necessarily aimed at teens, but most of the content is fine for kids who are interested in adding new skills, such as Photoshop, to their resume.
Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Summer Camps Kanopy. Free; age 3 and up. As long as you have a library card, you can access all the free entertainment and educational videos this app has to offer. Most of the content choices on Kanopy are similar to what patrons of a wellstocked library would expect: well-selected, award-winning films; independent and foreign films; popular kids’ and adults’ TV series; educational shows. The animated books are top-quality, with classics from producers such as Scholastic and Weston Woods.
Structured Learning JAM: Online Courses for Kids. Free for first 14 days; price varies per course, with discounts for purchasing an “All-Access Pass” or “Family Pass”, age 6–16. What can’t kids learn at this online school? There’s drawing, cooking, animation, music, science, engineering, and much more. Each course has a professional mentor and is broken down into easily manageable projects that kids can complete at their own pace.
MarcoPolo World School. Free to try, then monthly fee; age 4 and up This early learning video and game app emphasizes STEAM skills (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). Kids choose from a list of favorite subjects and watch a related topic-based video, which is then followed by a game. Parents and kids can view the monthly calendar to see what new topics are being added to the app, and parents can view kids’ progress.
Camp Wonderopolis. Free for campers; optional instruction guide for parents; age 7 and up. Sponsored by the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), this online camp lets kids explore topics such as weather, food, and technology. Each topic includes lessons, outdoor activities, videos, and additional reading suggestions for all ages.
Start with a Book. Free; age 6 and up. In addition to a summer science camp, this site offers a long list of themes, such as Art, Night Sky, and Weather Report, for kids to explore. For each theme, you get book suggestions (for all reading levels), discussion guides, hands-on activities, and related sites and apps. You’ll need to shell out for books if you can’t find them at the library.
Connected Camps. Price varies; age 8-13. For tech-curious kids, check out Connected Camps, which offers week-long, instructor-led, Minecraft-based camps including coding, game design, and engineering. There are also courses in Minecraft and the Scratch programming language just for girls. TechRocket. Free for a course sampling; price varies; age 10 and up. Launched by iDTechCamp (the popular -- and pricey -- computer day and overnight camps), TechRocket offers online instruction in coding, game design, and graphic design. Each camp offers a variety of levels and challenges as well as a dedicated instructor.
DIY. Free and fee-based; age 7 and up. This site offers dozens of skill-based activities (which it calls “challenges”) in a variety of categories, including Art, Business, and Engineering, that kids can do year-round. Every summer, DIY runs camps Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Planning a memorable birthday event can be the highlight of your child’s year, if you maximize the fun and minimize the stress. The best way to increase the magic and decrease the madness is to use a handy checklist so you can start early and get ready gradually. Or if you want to plan your party in one fell swoop a few weeks ahead, this checklist will help you do that, too. I have been planning and hosting birthday parties for over a decade, and these steps will get you from vision to fruition. Follow these timing tips, and you’ll be able to keep a smile on your face from the day you start planning until the moment the final guest is picked up or dropped off.
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Low-stress, High-fun Party Themes Make-something Party Animal Interaction Party Bounce or Jump Party Pool Party Movie Party Tea Party Pony Party Bowling Party Garden Party Roller or Ice Skating Party Spa Party Slumber Party Indoor Fun Center Outdoor Playground Party
10. Choose A Theme. Always
have a theme. Having a focus will help you plan and execute your party without a hitch. Several months before your party date, brainstorm themes with your guest of honor. See sidebar for theme suggestions.
9. Make Reservations.
If there is one thing I have learned about popular party venues, it’s that they fill up early. Once you have your theme and know you will need a location away from home, get your reservations nailed down tight two-three months in advance.
8. Find Supplies Online.
Shop local when you can to support your local economy, but for those hard-to-locate items, don’t burn up time and gas searching for what you can easily find online. Generally speaking, one-stop party stores are not as prevalent as they used to be and you’ll likely be delighted by the variety you can find online. Just make sure to place your orders at least a month early to allow for shipping time and returns if anything is not what you’d expected.
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7. Send Out Invitations.
Evite wins hands-down for quick and easy party invites. Just visit evite.com, select a theme, add in your guests’ email addresses, and send your invitations. Two weeks notice is usually just the right amount of time. But if it’s a busy time of year, add another week or two. 59
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6. Order The Cake.
Cakes and cupcakes can get expensive when you make them from scratch. Order your cookie cake, ice cream cake, cupcakes or sheet cake one week ahead for pickup up on party day for the freshest results.
5. Tackle Your Local Shopping List. Despite ordering
ahead online, you probably still have few items you need to pick up locally. Be sure to pick them up at least a week ahead in case you can’t find something and need to order it online after all.
4. Recruit helpers.
Why try to do everything yourself when you can have so much more fun at your party with plenty of helping hands standing by? See the sidebar for suggestions.
3. Curry Favors.
Favors don’t have to be expensive or intricate. For a home party, go simple, fun, and inexpensive. Be as eco-friendly as possible by offering favors in a reusable container. If hosting a party elsewhere, consider letting the party be favor enough or simply offering a small treat to guests on the way out like a lollipop or a candy necklace.
2. Set Up A Day Ahead.
If you are ordering any large food deliveries like pizza, place your order a day ahead. Don’t forget to check online for any discounts or coupons. Then go ahead and tackle as much prep work as you can. Decorations? Food preparation? Party favors? Activity prep? Everything will go smoother on party day if you take care of as much as you can the day before.
1. Party Down!
Get a good night’s sleep. Allow at least two hours prior for set up and one hour afterwards for clean up. Then enjoy every memorable moment. Designate a party photographer, if your hands will be too full to document the day.
Christina Katz has planned some fun birthday parties over the years including a pony party, a bowling party, and a roller skating party. But her all-time favorite was the sleepover spa party.
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Entertainment Dynamite Magic & Balloons ad on page 29
4315 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery Helium tank rentals (varying prices and sizes). Balloon decorations. Costumed characters available. Please visit our website to see the characters we have to offer. Characters do a 20 minute show with several songs and deliver balloons. Magic & clown Shows available. (334) 270.1234 dynamitemagicandballoons.com
Kreative Moments
Cakes/Finger Foods Bama Sweets
Montgomery Beautiful custom cakes and detailed decorated sugar cookies for all occasions Specialize in custom sugar flowers. Please visit Bama Sweets on Facebook to see latest creations. (334) 239.6766 Contact through Facebook
Bruster’s Ice Cream & Yogurt
6835 Vaughn Road, 10684 Vaughn Road, 3011 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery Select from 8” round cake or 9×12 cake Choose ice cream and one of the cake flavors. Pick a rich middle layer of fudge or caramel. All cakes are “iced” with fresh vanilla ice cream. (334) 272.7369, (334) 239-7004, or (334) 676.4250 brusters.com
zard Cakes are 8 in”, 10 in” and a sheet cake. All can be personalized at no additional charge. (334) 244.9490 or (334) 272.1818 dairyqueen.com
GiGi’s Cupcakes
7918 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Nothing makes a special day unforgettable like a custom cupcake or cake creation from Gigi’s. You may order online at our website and pick up at the store or view our daily menu online. (334) 356.3737 gigiscupcakesusa.com/montgomeryalabama
Great American Cookie Co. at Eastchase 7048 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery Choose from 16” round, 16” square and large Rectangular. (334) 356.8111 greatamericancookies.com
JoZettie’s Cupcakes
3651 Debby Dr. in LeCroy Village, Montgomery Specialty cakes all offered with professional decorating. Specialize in children’s birthday parties. Closed on Sunday and Monday. (334) 288.6900 hugohd.com
1404 South Decatur Street and 2229 East South Blvd, Montgomery JoZettie’s Cupcakes is please to offer a variety of cupcakes, cakes, cookies and pies for the holidays or your special occasion. (334) 239.9289 jzcupcakes@yahoo.com jzcupcakes.wixsite.com
Cupcakes by Tish
Liger’s Bakery
Cake Designs
Montgomery Specializing in gourmet cupcakes for all occasions. Wide variety of Daily Flavors listed on our website. 48 hours advanced notice for orders placed that are not on daily menu. (334) 356.5292 info@cupcakesbytish.com cupcakesbytish.com
3040 McGehee Rd., Montgomery Any flavor birthday cake, round or sheet, decorated with flowers, fruit, etc. We also have cookies, cupcakes and sandwiches available. Please call for flavors and pricing. (334) 288.6550 ligersgood.com
Dairy Queen
Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Up to 13 different varieties of cookies: 16” round 16” square and sheet cookie. Please call for prices. (334) 271.1900 greatamericancookies.com
6120 Atlanta Hwy and 3160 Taylor Road, Montgomery Chocolate and vanilla ice cream, and chocolate crunch. 8” round, 10” round, sheet cakes. BlizMontgomery Parents I July 2019
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ad on page 32 Montgomery Offering balloon twisting, face painting, and balloon art to make each event have that
“wow” factor. (334) 233.4318 Kreativemomentsmgm@gmail.com
Lil’ Priss Parties
ad on page 51
Montgomery We bring the party to you! Nerf Wars, Spa Parties, Princess Parties, Tea Parties, Tee Pee Sleep Over Parties and much, much more! Party packages for boys and girls. Please call for more details and pricing. (334) 226.6026
Snapology
ad on page 68
Montgomery Have the best party ever with our Lego and Robotics themed birthday party. We bring the party to you. Sit back and enjoy the party while our facilitator sets up and conducts the activities. Please visit our website
for more details. (334) 318.2824 riverregionsnapology.com snapology.com/riverregion
Big Green Bus
Montgomery Our party includes a zip-line, tumbling mats, monkey bar, rock wall, slides, tunnels, beam, bar, vault, rings, parachute games, and more! Goody bags are included in the prices. (334) 324.4628 biggymbus@gmail.com biggymbus.com
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564 Oliver Road, Montgomery Offers a variety of music plus karaoke and light shows for your child’s party. Video parties 12 ft. screens and popular videos. We can also provide the building for the party for an extra charge. Provides age appropriate music and will censor music to your discretion. (334) 260.9732 DJatLarge.com
Fontaine Entertainment
3115 Weoka Road, Wetumpka “We are serious about your fun.” Offer DJ sound, light shows, karaoke, balloon decorations and theme decorations for birthday parties, corporate events, civic events, weddings, etc. (334) 514.4457 fontaineentertainment.com
Glitterbug the Clown!
Montgomery Birthday parties, face painting, magic, balloon animals, temporary airbrush tattoos for the older kids! Tiger grams and Tiger Bombs also available! (334) 868.3876 kimpossible21@gmail.com glitterbugtheclown.com
K & S DJ Services
Montgomery Over 20 years experience offering entertainment music, interactive games and party props for all ages. 2 disc jockeys for every party/ event. (334) 285.6686 kns-djservice.com
Kindermusik of Montgomery
Arrow Rents
RockStar Parties and Events
Bradley’s Events & Décor
5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery Tents, tables, chairs, carnival equipment, fans, and bounce rides. All sorts of themed decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. Provide great selection and even better prices. (334) 277.0460 arrowrents.net
Montgomery Travel to party location. 30 minutes of music class for $50. Several themes to choose from. All instruments provided. (334) 676.3075 Hallhome96@aol.com kindermusik.com
969 Lagoon Business Loop, Montgomery Bradley’s Events & Décor provides unique and innovative décor for all occasions. (334) 230.7555
Montgomery DJ and Staged events. Stage and lights available. Available for any type of event. (334) 399.6961 rockstarparties@yahoo.com
Brendle Rentals
Equipment Rentals Inflatables of Montgomery ad on page 39
30 Handey Warehouse Rd., Montgomery Moonwalks, Giant slides, Interactive inflatable, Obstacle Courses, Rides, Rock-Climbing wall, and much, much more. Rentals for special events. (334) 398.0909 inflatablesofmontgomery@ gmail.com inflatablesofmontgomery.com
485 N. East Blvd. , Montgomery Party supplies. Inflatables. Obstacle courses and other rides, carnival games, slide, bungee run, tents and train. We setup at City parks and provide insurance. (334) 279.7368 natalie@brendlerentals.com brendlerentals.com
Space Walk of Montgomery
229 Lakeshore Drive, Pike Road Setups for Birthday Parties, Daycare Events, Community/civic Events, School Carnivals and Sporting Events. We offer inflatable Space Walks, Water Slides, Obstacle Courses, Combos, Concessions and much more. (334) 273.0204 spacewalkmtg@herecomesfun. com herecomesfun.com/mtg
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The Evans Space Walker
2952 Birmingham Hwy., Montgomery Inflatable cinemas rental. We have a variety of moon walks, slides, games, slide combos, obstacle courses, characters and more. Indoor facility available. We offer monthly specials. (334) 612.7025 thespacewalker.com
Limousines Touch of Class Limousine and Transport
Montgomery Carry up to 14 passengers at a time. Can pick up kids and ride them around or take them for pizza, etc. and then back home. These limos have all the extras for a fun time – red carpet, DVD for movies, a Birthday sign! Call for details. (334) 284.2673 touchofclassal.com
Paper Goods & Decorations Arrow Rents
5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery All sorts of theme decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. We provide a better selection. “Your one stop party shop.” (334) 277.0463 arrowrents.net
Brendle Rentals
485 North Eastern Bypass, Montgomery Montgomery’s Oldest Party Supply Store. Balloons, piñatas, party goods. Large array of items for themed parties. Party favors and birthday bags now available. (334) 260.5568 brendlerentals.com
Party City
2759 Eastern Blvd. , Montgomery A one-stop party store that provides a wide selection of merchandise at everyday low prices. Discounts up to 50% off party ensembles. (334) 409.0901 partycity.com
Places to Party -
Artistic Abrakadoodle Art & Events
Montgomery Instagram @Abrakadoodle_AL Creative art fun for your child for his/her birthday party. Everything Party is an Original. Painting parties and professional face painting available. (334) 265.5758 abrakadoodle.com/AL01
Do Re Mi Karaoke
2787 Bell Road, Montgomery DoReMi Karaoke is an exciting way to have fun.
Rooms available to rent for birthday parties, corporate get-togethers, and bachelor/bachelorette parties. We offer a large diverse song collection. (334) 239.7846
P’zazz Art Studio
138 W. Main St., Downtown Prattville, Prattville Birthday Party Packages start at $200 for up to 12 children. This includes the use of P’zazz for 2 hours, a 16×20 canvas or door hanger for each guest, supplies, and instruction on how to paint a picture of your choice. (334) 354.1975 pzazzart.com
Paint & Clay
4319 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery Girls Tea Party–Each child will paint two tea cups and saucers, one to keep and one for the birthday girl. The birthday girl paints the teapot and has a set of cups to treasure made by her friends. Other party themes available for boys and girls. (334) 819.4450 paintandclaystudio@yahoo.com
Places to Party - Bowling
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3020 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery All pkgs. include 2 hour party, Full birthday party setup, shoe rental, bumpers, ice cream, soft drink, six children per lane. (334) 272.5423 bamalanes.com
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BAMA Lanes, Prattville
1714 East Main St., Prattville Weekday Party Hours Monday-Thursday 10:30 – 3:30 and Friday 10:30 to 6 p.m. plus weekend parties. Various packages available. (334) 358.8600 bamalanesprattville.com
Brunswick Zone
1661 Eastern Blvd. , Montgomery Birthday party packages available. Please visit our website or call to build your birthday party package. Add-ons available and deposit required. Please call for more info. (334) 819.7171 bowlbrunswick.com
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United Gymstars & Cheer ad on page 31
6100 Brewbaker Blvd. off Troy Hwy., Montgomery Gymnastics, trampoline, recreational activities, supervised games, and birthday party room. We provide the facility and activities; you provide the cake, decorations and food. Cost of $175 is for 15 guests and the birthday child. (334) 284.2244 gym@unitedgymstarsandcheer.com www.unitedgymstars.com
Armory Athletics
Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection ad on page 42
3370 Harrison Road, Montgomery We offer the best and most convenient venue for your child’s themed birthday party. We will help you customize the party and make it perfect and memorable. Themed parties such as Frozen, Sassy Spa, JoJo Siwa Dance Party, Fashion Show Frenzy, Pretty Princess, Tumbling Toddlers, Disco, Hip Hop, Disneymania, “Teen”, ‘Hoe Down, Throw Down’ and more. Please call for pricing. (334) 277.1098 Find us on Facebook
1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery Party Package available for up 10 children. One hour of gym time. We provide the fun! 2 - 6 foot tables will be provided for setup. Parents provide food, paper goods and party favors. $50 nonrefundable deposit to secure spot and $100 due at party for up to 10 children from ages 3-16. (334) 625.2789 armoryathletics.com
Ballerina Birthday Parties at CJ’s Dance Factory
145 South Court Street, Prattville CJ’s hosts Birthday Parties for children ages 3 and up. Table and chairs set up in the Polka Dot Party room, Dance studio area with music and mirrors, Our “SugarPlum” ballerina, up to 10 guests (more for an additional fee), (334) 467.8603 cjsdancefactory.com
Big Green Bus
Montgomery See their listing under Entertainment. (334) 324.4628 biggymbus@gmail.com biggymbus.com
Montgomery Ballet
2101 Eastern Boulevard, Ste. 223, Montgomery Parties hosted by Montgomery Ballet Professional Company Members. Have your very own Dance Class for you and your friends! Princess characters available! Call for details. (334) 409.0522 info@montgomeryballet.org montgomeryballet.org
Places to Party -
Martial Arts
Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center
3447 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Docarmo’s Birthday Bash. We send out the invitations for you. We provide a variety of FUN games for entertainment. You may bring in your own choice of food. Minimum of 10 children. Prices are based on 1.5 hour party on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday. (334) 220.5835 trytkdfree.com
Family Karate Center
8159 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery Parties now available 7 days a week from 2 and up. Included in our parties are 2 hours of jampacked fun. Please call for more information. (334) 277.4911
Johnson Karate & Fitness Academy
2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J, Montgomery $150 for 1.5 hours of pure fun. You provide the food and we provide the fun. Please call for information. (334) 284.2344
NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville
698 Old Farm Lane S, Prattville Parties are 1.5 hours. Options include: Nerf Wars, Dodge Ball and more. Karate fun and
Alabama Dance Theatre FALL DANCE CLASSES BEGIN MONDAY, AUGUST 20, 2019 Now Accepting Registrations, Age 3 to Professional Level Kitty Seale, Artistic Director
at the Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Avenue
www.alabamadancetheatre.com
(334) 625-2590 Photo by David Robertson, Jr.
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games. Parents provide paper products and cake and food. Call for pricing. (334) 590.3759 nextgenmartialarts.com
Tiger Park Taekwondo
3125 Bell Road, Montgomery Come party with us! We provide the facility, demonstration, mini-taekwondo class and Birthday child gets to break a board. You provide food and cleanup. (334) 277.2627
Tiger Rock Martial Arts
2750 Bell Rd. , Montgomery Academy facility for 1.5 hours. 45-minute Martial Arts lesson taught by one of our certified instructors. Includes a martial arts class with basic skills and agility games. (334) 244.1465 tigerrockmontgomery.com
Places to Party -
Miscellaneous Adventure Sports Aquatic Center ad on page 78
1546 East Ann Street, Montgomery Indoor or outdoor pools, kiddie pool, grilling and picnic area. Price of $200 plus tax includes lifeguard up to 20 children over 8 for two hours. You bring food and cake. Additional lifeguard is $50. Under age of 8 the limit is 16 per lifeguard. Call for details. (334) 269.3483 adventuresports2.com
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
Sylvan Learning Center
Newtopia
ad on page 61
3731 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Newtopia is an indoor playground facility designed for children to experience a fun, safe, and inclusive experience. With our party package you get 80 min. of playtime, 40 min. of party room time, organic juice and pizza for kids, one free pass for Birthday child, set up and clean up and much, much more. Parents provide cake, cutter and candles. No ice-cream or outside food. (334) 6698722
Prattville East YMCA ad on page 48
972 McQueen Smith Rd., Prattville
Party room for members and nonmembers. Pool rental for members. Party room has a $70 deposit and is $190.00 for non-members and $140 for members. This includes 1 ½ hours of entertainment, hostess, sheet cake, cups, plates, napkins, silverware for 15 children. Cost for each additional child is $2. Birthday child receives a free t-shirt. You provide ice, ice cream and drinks. Themed parties also available. Call for more details. (334) 358.9622 prattvilleymca.org
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ad on page 29
4240 Lomac Street, Montgomery Education Center / STEM Education Provider Robotics / Engineering Birthday Party Packages Available! Kids will construct and animate a project as they learn STEM terms and concepts. Projects are animated with motors and sensors using coding software. (334) 239.0874 cd@montgomerysylvan.com sylvanlearning.com/montgomery
Antique Train Rides
60 miles north of Montgomery, Calera Party takes place in the restored Amtrak car. Includes an hour train ride through the woods and by the interstate. Parents can set up party in our restored Amtrak car. Kids can also look through the old railroad yard. Hostesses are available but parents supply food and supplies. Theme parties available (Thomas the Train, etc.) (205) 668.3435 hodrrm.org
Bell Road YMCA
2435 Bell Rd., Montgomery Can rent pool, building or both. Goodtimes Waterpark: $350 (Members Only) for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Bell Road Indoor Pool Complex: $250 (Members only) for 2 hours includes lifeguards. Bell Road Outdoor Pool: $250 (Members Only) for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Activity Center Room: $250 (Members Only) for 2 hours during business hours (10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.) on Saturday and (1 p.m. and 4 p.m.) Sunday. (334) 271.4343 ymcamontgomery.org
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Chuck E Cheese
1116 Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Three party packages offered. Star Package: Two hours of reserved table space, $10 in tokens per child, personal party host/hostess, Two slices of one topping pizza per child, soft drinks with free refills per child, Ticket Blaster experience for the Birthday Star. (334) 281.9290 chuckecheese.com
East Branch YMCA
3407 Pelzer Ave., Montgomery Parties for members. Indoor and outdoor pools. Outdoor pool includes slide and splash pool. YMCA provides lifeguards for party. (334) 272.339 ymcamontgomery.org
FC Montgomery Soccer
Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery Our parties can last 1 to 3 hours, and include fun sports games, races, and short sided games. You will have full use of our kitchen, fridges, and the dining area. If you want it to be super easy, put us in charge of setting up tables, ordering the cake, drinks, or lunch. (334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com
Gazebo Tea Room
414 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery
A wonderful place for a girl’s tea party. Choose your own teacup and tea to sip. Finger foods available. Call for more information. (334) 277.1839
Launch Trampoline Park
891 Boardroom Drive, Prattville Three fun packed packages to choose from. 1 hour and 45 min. to 2 hours, depending on package. Cost is $269-$399 + for additional guests. All packages include 60 min. of launch fun, party room, gripper socks, drink, slice of pizza, special gift for birthday child and paper products. (334) 568.2041 launchtrampolinepark.com
McWane Center
200 19th Street North, Birmingham They do it all – cake, punch, ice cream, paper products and, if you like, goodie bags. Your group will party in one of the colorful party rooms, then take to the museum floor for a full day of handson science fun and discovery. Of course, you can also see a movie while there. (205) 714.8369 mcwane.org
Rockin Jump
5544 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery The Ultimate trampoline park. Our birthday parties include: 1 hour of jump time and 45 minutes in our private party room. We provide plates, cups, utensils and napkins. You provide the cake and decorations. (334) 239.2587 rockinjump.com
Splattered Woods Paintball
2151 Cantelou Road, Montgomery Mobile paintball supply sales and service. We host parties at your field or our location: Birthday Parties/Team Building/Youth Groups. We can build custom games to fit your needs. Friendly Christian sales and service. (334) 294.6891
Places to Party -
Outdoors JoJo’s Mini Golf
165 Red Eagle Drive, Wetumpka Book your child’s birthday party at JoJo’s. We offer one game of mini golf, a cup of yogurt per child for $11. Adults are $13. Parties are limited to 1 hour and 45 minutes. Party space available indoors. Deposit required to hold space. (334) 514.8951 jojosminigolffrozenyogurt.com
Montgomery Zoo
2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery Rent a shelter and host your own birthday party. Pay regular admission for each child or qualify for a group discount with 20 or more children. Reservations required. (334) 240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com
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YMCA Camp Chandler
Wetumpka, on Lake Jordan 30 minutes from Montgomery, Wetumpka Great birthday idea for kids 5 to 15. Ten child minimum. This three hour block of time includes 2-3 activities that you and your child choose, and starting or ending with meal served in the Dining Hall (if you choose the meal option). Parents may bring cake and ice cream. (334) 229.0035 campchandler.org
Places to Party - Parks Millbrook Memorial Ctr & Village Green Park
On Main Street and Grandview, Millbrook Incredible wooden playground with castle, space shuttle, boat, etc. We have picnic tables and picnic shelter. First come first serve. Memorial Center rents for $200 for a one day rental + a $100 security deposit which can be returned upon inspection of facilities and return of the key. Handicap accessible facility. (334) 285.6428 cityofmillbrook.org under parks and recreation tab
Montgomery City Parks
Call to reserve picnic shelters all day for Lagoon Park, Buddy Watson Park, Ida Belle Young Park, Oak Park, Gateway and AUM Park. Large shel-
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
ters are $50 for all day and $25 for 1/2 day. Small shelters are $40 for full day and $20 for half day. All parks are first come first serve and open to the public. Make shelter reservations as early as possible. (334) 241.2300 montgomeryal.gov click on departments and then parks and recreations
Prattville Parks
City park shelters are $25 for 4 hrs. & $50 for 8 hrs. Cooter’s Pond pavilions rent for $35 or $75 depending on which pavilion. The Doster Community Center: auditorium $350 for 10 hours, dining hall $200 for 10 hours. The kitchen with either one of these rooms is an additional $75.00. Upper Kingston Community Center rents for $200 for 10 hours. (334) 361.3640 www.prattvilleal.gov
Wetumpka Parks
Gold Star Park (no rental fee if available), Jeanette Barrett Civic Room in Gold Star Park rents for individual $40, business $50 and church $25 ($50 refundable deposit). Martin Luther King Recreation Center (requires a $300 refundable cash deposit) 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. for $115. Call 567.3002 for details about Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park, off US 231, Wetumpka 165-acre park area includes nature trails, campgrounds, picnic pavilion, museum, boat launch, and fort. Would be a great place for either a Pocahontas Party or a Wild West Party. (334) 567.5147 cityofwetumpka.com
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Places to Party -
Restaurants Chick Fil A
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Montgomery Playground and reserved section. Kids meal and toy, ice cream and visit from Cow (mascot) on request. Please call your local Chik Fil A for pricing. Every child gets a balloon (334) 271.0104 chikfila.com
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Cici’s Pizza
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981 Ann St. , Montgomery Ages 10 and under, $5.21 per person; adults $8.89 including your drink of choice. You bring cake and Cici’s does the rest. (334) 386.3086 cicis.com
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McDonald’s
Call individual stores for cost and details. Includes a Ronald McDonald cake, hamburger kid’s meal, ice cream, hostess, and party favors are supplied. Access to PlayLand after the party. mcdonalds.com
Nancy’s Italian Ice
7976 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery Ice and cupcakes available for purchase. (334) 356.1403 nancysice.com
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Pizza Hut
Montgomery Offered at all Montgomery locations as well as Prattville, Wetumpka and Clanton. Costs vary. Call for details. (334) 265.6000 pizzahut.com
Places to Party -
Skating 2211 Ultimate Playzone ad on page 51
3541 McGehee Road, Montgomery It’s party time at 2211 Ultimate Playzone! We have 4 packages to choose from. Prices ranging from $12-14 per person + tax. You may visit our website for more information on package details. (334) 593.7180 2211ultimateplayzone.com
Eastdale Mall Ice Palace
Eastdale Mall, Montgomery 10 or more people. Free birthday invitations and reserved table outside the rink. You bring cake and everything you need. Please call for pricing. (334) 277.2088 eastdale-mall.com
Skatezone 2000
88 Red Eagle Parkway, Wetumpka Several party packages available. Call for details on pricing and options. We offer Laser tag parties. (334) 567.4434
Unique Gifts for Kids and Adults Alabama Shakespeare Festival Gift Shop Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery Theatre-related gifts. Open during performance hours, one hour prior to show and through intermission. Contact box office for show times. (334) 271.5358 asf.net
Barb’s on Mulberry
1923 Mulberry Street, Montgomery Will personalize lots of gift items. Choose from a wide variety of unique and personalized gifts.
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Closed on Mondays. We now do birthday parties. (334) 269.BARB (2272) barbsonmulberry.com
Capitol City Comics
7919 Vaughn Rd. (Festival Plaza), Montgomery Large selection of comics, gaming cards, and statues. Military and college student discounts. (334) 215.3335 robcomix@aol.com
Embellish
7056 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery Large selection of items to be monogrammed. Book bags, Scout bags, Brush Fire T-shirts, jewelry, tumblers and many, many more. (334) 649.2022 theembellish.com
Goat Hill Museum Store
Located in Alabama’s State Capitol Building, Montgomery Civil War, Civil Rights- Books, Local Artwork, Toys, Collectibles, Ornaments, Music, Videos, Cookbooks, Pottery, Souvenirs, and Unique Southern Gifts. Union Street Entrance. (334) 353.4969 goathill@preserveala.org
Heather Pierce Designs
7936 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery Heather Pierce Designs specializes in personalized gifts. We offer tile décor including
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tumbled marble coasters, trivets and magnets. (334) 676.1807 heatherpiercedesigns.com
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Gift Shop
Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery You will find a wide assortment of unique gifts that are handcrafted by local artists for that special someone. (334) 240.4337 mmfa.org
Old Alabama Town Gift Shop
301 Columbus St. , Montgomery Regional and old-fashioned gift items. (334) 240.4500 oldalabamatown.com
Periwinkles
8189 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Make your gift decisions from a large selection of popular items in our store. (334) 277.3570 shop.periwinkle@gmail.com
The Shoppes at My Kids Attic
401 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery We offer something for the everything in your life. Specialty gifts, home dÊcor, candles, jewelry, pewter, children’s couture, vinyl and monogrammed gifts. (334) 270.1456 mykidsattic.biz
The Turtle Shell
160 W. Main St., Prattville Educational items including reading games, room decorations, math workbooks, gifts for birthdays, science kits, puzzles and music. (334) 358.0902 theturtleshell.com
Tucker Pecan Company
350 N McDonough St., Montgomery Come by and visit us for a unique selection of gifts, tumblers, jewelry and more. (334) 262.4470 tuckerpecan.com
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Velvet Pumpkin
8185 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Annex, Montgomery Beautiful selection of unique Clothing, Vera Bradley, frames and bath items. (334) 273.9293 velvetpumpkinonline.net
Yard Signs Flamingo-A-Friend
Montgomery Choose from flamingos (assorted colors), smiley faces, cows & pigs, penguins, elephants, or footballs to fill your yard and surprise your birthday child when they awake. Set up before 6:30 a.m. and clean up by 6 p.m. Please call for rates. (334) 279.3737 flamingoafriendmontgomery.com
Montgomery Storks & More
Montgomery Montgomery Storks & More delivers personalized newborn stork and birthday lawn signs to celebrate any occasion in the Montgomery, AL and surrounding area. (334) 313.1489 montgomerystorks@gmail.com montgomerystorksandmore.com mp Montgomery Parents I July 2019
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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
While we keep string and rope away from toddlers for safety reasons, once kids approach the ‘dress themselves’ stage, they are usually ready to experiment with the manipulation of these versatile materials. Learning to tie knots and twist rope can be an important part of children’s development. For the little ones, experimenting with lacing, knots and weaving promotes discipline, focus and problem-solving (ability). String work also enhances hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. In addition to being a functional part of work, craft and construction, knots and manipulated string have been used for art and design works for thousands of years. The following items explore knotting and string work in ways that are forever fun and functional!
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Loopdeloom
Knot So Fast
Weaving is kind of the undiscovered hero behind so much of our everyday experience. From clothing to seatbelts, from backpacks to baskets, weaving exponentially multiplies the strength of ordinary materials. The Loopdeloom weaving kit puts this power into the hands of craftspeople, young and old. With its innovative spinning peg loom, this weaving tool is simple to set up, easy to use, and produces quick results. As the weaving methods become familiar to users, string and yarn projects can evolve from small potholders to large complex items with intriguing patterns. This versatile tool can combine with additional looms to create larger projects and it can also be used to weave recycled materials (plastic bags, t-shirt strips). The winner of multiple design awards for toys and crafting, Loopdeloom is an easy intro to the world of weaving with expanding potential for creative textile exploration.
It’s easy to get roped into the fun with the Knot So Fast game that combines dexterity and visual problem solving into a string of knotty contests. With colored ropes, rings, card base and a nifty ‘tugof-war’ scorekeeping rope, this twoplayer game is great for camping, scout meetings, or a friendly challenge between friends. The game features a variety of knots, sorted by their functions such as stopper, binding, bends, hitches, loops, and decorative knots. While the cards provide knot images only (no step-by-step instructions), players are challenged to use visual cues and experimentation to duplicate the knot before their opponent does. The cards also show interesting facts about each knot. Ideal for kids and adults who have an inclination toward sight-solving, Knot So Fast is a fast and fun introduction to the twists and turns of knot tying.
Paracord Bracelet Making Kit
String Art Kit Space Edition
A study stand-out among bracelet kits, this strong paracord kit jig is ideal for making functional arm wear that is as hardy as it is fashionable. The wooden weaving base is designed to be adjustable to desired length, to anchor the work in progress, and to hold up as young crafters expand their abilities with variable cordage and new designs. In addition to the building base, this paracord bracelet kit includes 4 bundles of paracord in different colors and styles, enough clips to complete 4 bracelets and instructions to guide them along the craft journey. Once kids pick up the skill, they can easily find additional paracord types, clips and ornaments to customize their future work. From bracelets to beyond, this kit from 3 Bees & Me is a great starting point for young crafters pondering a string of new projects!
Blending graphic design with string manipulation and knotting, String Art Kits from Craft-tastic offer young artists everything they need to tie into the string art world. Choosing from the included patterned foam canvases, kids simply push anchor pins into the outlines and the canvas is ready to string (no hefty tools needed). With detailed instructions and 40 yards of thread, string artists quickly pick up the skills of stretching and winding the colored thread across the core of the image as the pictures gain depth and shape. The Space Edition kit features templates for a rocket ship, a planet and a star, as well as everything needed to get right to work. For young artisans discovering how easy it is to create layered looks with string, similar kits from Craft-tastic featuring everything from unicorns and animals to desserts and symbols are available to keep the artwork coming!
(ThinkFun)
(Craft-tastic)
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Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com
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A Page in a Book
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It’s Just Your (Awesome) Imagination Loosely associated with fantasy or the unreal, imagination doesn’t get the credit it deserves as a very real driver of children’s social, emotional and cognitive development. Nurturing a child’s natural inclination to ponder the fantastic or impossible can foster their confidence when it comes to problem-solving, creativity and challenging tasks. Presented with the bold imaginings of kids, caregivers are gifted with ideal opportunities to join and follow conversations filled with the potential for expanded thinking. The following titles offer great prompts for read-aloud partners to ponder and celebrate the power of imagination, together.
Imagine That: A Hoot and Olive Story
By Jonathan D. Voss (Henry Holt / Macmillan) Stuck inside on a rainy day, Olive sees the perfect opportunity to go on a pretend adventure with Hoot. But, Olive’s special friend seems to have lost his imagination. Hoot’s not even sure he even had one to begin with. Undeterred, Olive takes Hoot through the house offering her own grand imaginative prompts for potential play scenarios, but he struggles to see what she does. Together, they try starting over with the smallest of imagining. And what blossoms from the seeds of their shared vision is splendid indeed. Voss’s filmy watercolor illustrations are the perfect medium for exploring the soft edges of imaginary play, where the borders blur between reality and recreational thinking. Perfect for jump-starting epic journeys of wonder, Imagine That is a sweet testament to those who share their imaginative gifts with others.
You and Me and the Wishing Tree
By Nancy Tillman (Feiwal and Friends / Macmillan) Awakening to the glory of a wishing tree, a child exclaims “I wish!”, launching a full day’s romp through a broad vista of imaginative experiences. As the child flies above fields and oceans, lunches with bears and plays with penguins, their parent observes their journey, quietly celebrating each new twist of adventure. Every wish comes alive in brilliant hues throughout the day until the vibrant colors begin to dim toward dusk. As they are gently guided back towards their bed, the child sleepily asks the parent what they had wished for. The answer reveals the power of parents to truly foster a child’s imagination. In this exquisitely illustrated title, Nancy Tillman creates a beautiful ode to the youngest imagineers and those who lovingly support their unfettered romps through the lands of what might be.
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Imagine
By Erik Johansson (WeldonOwen) Many adult readers have distinctive memories of an unusual illustration or artwork in a book from their youth, a book that may have fallen outside the realm of typical kids literature. It might have been an encyclopedia, an art book, or other odd title that nonetheless housed images that stuck in our minds over the years. Erik Johansson’s photography collected in Imagine is a complete smorgasbord of unforgettable photography that guides imagination through unexpected channels. Power lines that stretch across a field before snaking up the frets of an enormous guitar, rooms and landscapes that twist and turn with Escher-like mystery, each surreal image prompts a mental exploration of imaginary possibility. Filled with wonder, Imagine offers a new generation pictures that will linger in their memory as visual prompts to keep asking, “What if?” Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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W L Men in Black: International
The Secret Life of Pets 2
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: C Sexual Content: BProfanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ Ever since she saw her parents get memory-wiped by the Men in Black as a child, Molly (Tessa Thompson) has been searching for the shadowy organization that regulates alien activity on Earth. Once she finds them and joins up, she realizes that things are far more dangerous than she realized. Now codenamed Agent M, she teams up with Agent H (Chris Hemsworth) to find a mole deep in Men in Black’s London office. I may see a lot of movies, but it’s a really bad sign if I can accurately predict the entire plot of the movie in the first ten minutes. It’s so formulaic I actually started second guessing myself at one point, thinking “Surely, no one is unironically following this tired premise so faithfully. There must be a twist coming!” Tragically, there wasn’t. The movie just plods along down the familiar path with no new twists, turns, or anything to spice up the bland monotony of it all. If they can stand the boredom, parents will find a few other issues to be concerned about. Surprisingly for a movie about fighting aliens, the violence is less graphic than previous entries in the franchise. The profanity is also milder. The sexual content isn’t graphic, but it is uncomfortable. Both instances of notable sexual language or behavior are in coercive situations, and the coercive nature of those actions is never discussed or addressed in any meaningful way. For the most part though, this is a harmless popcorn flick. It may be devastatingly dull, astoundingly unoriginal, and generally pointless, but it isn’t outright offensive. There are just much better ways to spend your time.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The film opens with Max (voiced by Patton Oswalt), the lovable and mildly neurotic star of the prequel. Max’s anxiety really takes off when his owner marries and has a baby, giving Max a consuming need to protect the infant from all dangers, real or imagined. Max’s owner takes him to the vet, where he is fitted with a “cone of shame” to stop his stress-induced compulsive scratching. And then, when the family heads off for a family vacation, Max is forced to confront a whole new set of potential dangers. Max isn’t alone in a perilous world...his fellow apartment dwellers are facing their own challenges. As if juggling two plots isn’t enough, this production adds a third, which is probably one too many for young viewers. Snowball the rabbit (voiced loudly and irritatingly by Kevin Hart) is convinced he is a superhero and gets recruited by Daisy to rescue a lion cub from a circus where he is being mistreated. And this plot is where the movie goes over the cliff. I assumed this movie was aimed at young children, but there is far too much violence in this plot for kids. The owner of the circus whips the tiger, shoots him with a tranquilizer gun, threatens him with a revolver and a taser, repeatedly vows to turn animals into coats or rugs, and sets wolves on other animals. As Max says, “You never know what life is going to throw at you. You have two choices: run from it or run at it.” Ironically, The Secret Life of Pets contains too much violent content for young viewers who need to hear that message.
Dark Phoenix
Toy Story 4
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: BOn a mission to save the crew of the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the X-Men encounter a massive wave of...something in space. Although they rescue the crew, Jean Grey (Sophie Turner) doesn’t make it out of the shuttle in time and is hit by the anomaly. When the wave passes, the rest of the X-Men find her floating in space, as healthy as ever. Upon their return to Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, they realize Jean might not be as well as she seems, and worse still, her powers might be growing out of control. There are quite a few things I liked about this film. For one, this is the only X-Men movie that confronts Charles Xavier’s (James McAvoy) manipulative behavior and its consequences in any depth. Dark Phoenix also takes a more compassionate view of Erik Lensherr, aka Magneto (Michael Fassbender), who has been a dubiously relatable villain in the past. On the downside, the film’s pacing is a bit wonky. The first two acts feel reined in, not slow exactly, just taking their time with the characters and subjects. By act three, things speed up, but rather than giving a sense of accelerating intensity, the movie just starts to feel rushed. Maybe that’s part of the reason I found it vaguely unsatisfying. Parental concerns are going to be about the same as with other superhero movies, with violence being the primary issue. This film is slightly more graphic than some others in the franchise – leading to its very appropriate PG13 rating. And although it gets an automatic C grade from us for having one extreme profanity, there’s very little other cussing.
MPAA Rating: G Overall: A Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A When I saw the trailer for Toy Story 4, I was afraid that Pixar was making an unnecessary sequel in pursuit of the almighty dollar. But as the movie played out across the screen, I fell under its spell. Toy Story 4 is an enchanting movie, filled with humor, pathos, charm, and gentle wisdom. Beginning where the third film left off, Andy’s toys have all adjusted to life with Bonnie (voiced by Madeleine McGraw) – except for Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks). No longer the favorite toy, Woody is often left in the closet to gather dust. But when an apprehensive Bonnie has to go to kindergarten orientation, Woody sees a role for himself and hides in her backpack. He’s instrumental in helping Bonnie on her first day at school and she comes home proudly carrying Forky, a spork she has turned into a toy. The introduction of Forky, hilariously voiced by Tony Hale, is where this movie takes off. Toy Story 4 rides high on a tide of laughter, buoyed up by comic action sequences, plenty of funny dialogue, and the usual collection of oddball characters. Buzz Lightyear, still voiced by the inimitable Tim Allen, decides that the buttons on his chest that provide pre-recorded phrases are the source of his “inner voice” and decides to follow whatever directions they provide – with predictably hilarious results. Best of all, the strong positive messages and wonderful comic scenes come with little negative content, aside from some moments of peril and minor violent content which are necessary to drive the plot. Moviegoers will marvel at how a motley collection of animated toys manage to climb out of their toybox and into their hearts.
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I don’t mean to brag, but my husband and I have thrown quite a few awesome birthday parties over the years. However, when reflecting back over all the parties we’ve thrown, it’s clear to me that the most memorable parties were not the most elaborate or even the most expensive. They were simply the messiest.
Messy and birthday parties go together better than you might imagine. After all, what could be more festive than a little bit of parent-approved pandemonium?
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If you really want to throw the party to top all parties, go for a totally messy party from beginning to end. If a little bit of mess is memorable, than a lot of mess just might be unforgettable. In that spirit, here is a list of 17 indoor and outdoor ideas that won’t break the bank.
4. Franken-beauty. Make natural facial masks out of banana, avocado or cocoa. Sit guests around a large table in pairs to take turns applying masks to each other’s faces. Be sure to have some hand mirrors handy so everyone can see what all the squeals are about.
1. Take aim, color. Mark off a square play arena outdoors with five-foot tall Bamboo garden stakes and blue painters masking tape. Fill squirt guns or squirt bottles with non-toxic watercolor paints, don a pair of clear swim goggles, and let the kids decorate each other dressed in white t-shirts and leggings or sweats. The only rule is no one leaves the field until the paint is all spent.
5. Construction junction. Supply lots of sheets, blankets and pillows for fort construction. If you can mount a few Hula Hoops strategically around the room, they come in handy. You might also supply bandanas and bungee chords. Be sure to inspect the results for hazards. Keep food and drinks strictly separate. 6. Reach for the foam. Play messy Twister in the yard by mixing foam shaving cream and food coloring. Wear clothing that can get stained. If no one wants to worry about clothing stains, simply use white shaving cream for the same effect.
2. Take a whack at it. Fill a store-bought piñata 2/3 of the way full with cooked, well-drained spaghetti. Then add small plastic toys, foil-wrapped granola bars, and plastic wrapped candies. To extend the fun, hang the piñata on a pull cord threaded through an eyehook so you can pull it up and down as kids swing at it with a bat or broom handle. Secure a tarp underneath with Duck tape (indoors) or camping stakes (outdoors) for easy cleanup.
7. Pudding slide. Make about a gallon of chocolate pud-
ding. Drop large spoonfuls of pudding onto a Slip & Slide. Have guests take a running start down a low-grade slope. To make slide more slippery, have guests sprinkle it with water from a sprinkler can or set the hose sprayer to mist. Add more pudding or water, as needed.
3. Eggcentric art. Break the tops off real eggs and pour the yolks and whites into Tupperware to make quiche or a soufflé later. Keeping empty shells in the carton, fill each with acrylic paints of various colors. Outside or in the garage or basement, hang a large canvas against a sturdy wall or fence and let the kids take aim and fire until they make a masterpiece. Use plastic drop cloths to catch the splatters as needed.
8. Slime ball. Find an online recipe to make nontoxic slime
and let guests prepare it. Then play a game of hide the bouncy ball in the slime. Use a blindfold and a timer to see who can find their party favors the fastest. Enjoy the groans.
9. Picasso footsie. Roll out a long sheet of paper and pour puddles of acrylic paint at one end. Have each guest step in
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diameter. Have guest don a pair of clear goggles and stand in the middle of the pool without splashing. Let two party guests lower a Hula Hoop over the guest and then pull it straight up into a giant bubble.
one color per foot and walk across the paper. Switch to the other side of the paper to balance out the look. Hang art on a fence or wall to dry.
10. Musical silly string. Put half the group in the middle on a plastic tarp. Encircle guests with the other half of the group. Turn on the music. Have the inside group move in one direction and the outside group move in the other direction, while spraying the inside group with silly string. When the music is turned off, switch groups.
15. Three-legged color run. Set up a start and finish line for a short jaunt. Tie the legs of two guests together and have them wear clear swim goggles and white play clothing. Have other guests stand on the sidelines and throw color from bags of nontoxic Holi colors (the type used for Color Runs, available online). The winners take on the next pair of challengers until everyone has run. The most colorful pair wins.
11. Pasta fling. Cook one box of spaghetti per party guest.
16. Sloppy volley. Divide guests into two groups. Put a line
Get some five-gallon buckets and fill them 2/3 of the way with water. Add enough flour to thicken the water, then add spaghetti. The only rules are: use your own spaghetti, no bucketdumping, and no touching-just throwing. Put them in the square play arena and get the heck out of the way.
across the center or your play arena like a tennis court. Everyone has to stay on their own team and wear swim googles. Place a table of supplies within reach of the backcourt. On the table, supply large bowls of chilled mashed potatoes, Jello, pudding, and cooked oatmeal. Tint food with food coloring if clothing can be stained. On your mark, get set, food fight!
12. Mud puddle fun. On a sturdy table at playing height, fill a
small kiddie pool with dirt and just enough water to make mud. Add digging and pouring toys for an hour of industry for young guests.
17. Trashion runway. For a couple of months before the party, don’t discard your reusable recyclables. Spread them out evenly in tarps with plenty of clear tape, masking tape, painter’s tape, and Duck tape. Pair guests up into design teams. Give a time limit like one hour. The assignment is to design a runway-worthy fashion for each team out of only the trash that’s been supplied. Have a runway show afterwards to display the results. mp
13. Duck-Duck-Dump. Have kids sit in circle for a game of Duck-Duck-Goose. But first, hand them a cup of water and a half-cup of flour to pour over each goose’s head. 14. The opposite of tiny bubbles. Make bubble mix with ten cups of regular Dawn Dish soap and five gallons of water. Let it sit overnight. Do not agitate the solution as you pour it into a small wading pool slightly larger than a Hula Hoop in
Like most parents, Christina Katz’ first instinct is not necessarily to throw the messiest party. But she’s learned that sometimes it’s fun to throw tidiness out the window and for the sake of big birthday fun.
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Wetumpka Boy Scout Attains Eagle Status
Recent Wetumpka High School graduate Owen Tilley has become the most recent Eagle Scout rising from Wetumpka’s Boy Scout Troop 13. Tilley has been active in scouting since he was in first grade. After earning his Arrow of Light, the highest level of achievement in Cub Scouts, he crossed over from Pack 50 into Troop 13. There he held various leadership positions, including patrol leader, troop scribe, troop quartermaster, assistant senior patrol leader and senior patrol leader. In 2017, he was inducted into the Order of the Arrow, the national honor society of scouting. At school, Tilley was salutatorian of the Wetumpka High School Class of 2019, a member of the WHS Robotics Team and participated on the Rocketry Team, Science Olympiad, and the GreenPower Electric Car Team. He was a member of National Honor Society, Beta Club, and served as vice president of Mu Alpha Theta (math honor society). For three years, Tilley played trumpet in the WHS Pride of the Tribe marching band, was a member of concert band for one year, and symphonic band for two years. Tilley’s Eagle Project was designing a monument that serves as a memorial to men from Elmore County who died in World War I. With his father’s assistance, many hours of research were conducted to identify the 43 service members whose names are inscribed on the monument. The monument has been placed at the old Elmore County Courthouse, where it was dedicated on the 100th anniversary of the end of WWI. Tilley is also a member of First Baptist Church Wetumpka. This fall, he will attend Auburn University, where he will major in engineering.
GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME
Evangel Christian Academy Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential
AISA Blue Ribbon School “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11
3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882
Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA
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FamilyCalendar Monday, July 1
Movie Monday at the Riverfront -- Also July 8, 15 & 22 Dusk at Riverfront Park. This FREE event is perfect for the entire family. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnics and enjoy an evening on the banks of the Alabama River. Vendors available. July 1: The Lion King; July 8: Ready Player One; July 15: Spiderman: Into the Spiderverse; and July 22: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Call (334) 625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com for more info. Summer Kids’ Series at Chantilly 13 -- Mondays & Thursdays through July 25 10 a.m. For all ages. $4.50 (plus tax) for admission! That includes a kids’ size popcorn and drink and your movie ticket. Madagaskar July 1 & 4; Puss in Booths July 8 & 11; Monsters vs. Aliens July 15 & 18; and Chicken Run July 22 & 25. Call (334) 819-1638 for more info. Good Mornings Start -- Through July 25 9 a.m.-noon. Frazer Activity Center. Good Mornings is a summer recreation program for rising 1st-6th grade boys and girls offered Monday-Thursday through July 25. Indoor and outdoor games, snack time, devotion. Cost is just $6 per day (additional $2 for early drop off at 7:30 a.m.). Offered on a daily basis, no required attendance or pre-registration needed. Visit http:// frazer.church/event/good-mornings or call (334) 495-6456.
Tuesday, July 2
U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour -- Wynlakes Golf & Country Club For boys and girls ages 5-14. Age-appropriate competition and yardages. Parent caddies encouraged. Fun and family interactive. For more info, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536 or quincyleonard@leogolfacademy.com. Register online at www. uskidsgolf.com. Millbrook Farmers Market -- Open on Tuesdays through August 13 8 a.m.-noon. Village Green, corner of Main Street and Grandview Road. Locally grown fruits, berries and vegetables; bakery items and Master Gardener demonstrations. For more info, call (334) 285-3558 or (334) 301-2650.
Wednesday, July 3
Independence Day Celebration Gates open at 6 p.m.; fireworks at 9 p.m. Blount Cultural Park. Live music and food vendors. Kids’ activities. Chairs, blankets and pets allowed. For more info, visit www.funinmontgomery.com. Wetumpka Independence Day Fireworks 8:30 p.m. Gold Star Park. Sponsored by Wind Creek Casino. For more info, visit www.cityofwetumpka. com/. Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public Noon-1 p.m. The first Wednesday of each month. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water provided.
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Thursday, July 4
43rd Annual 4th of July Boat Parade 9-11 a.m. Russell Marine – Kowaliga Marina, 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd. Alexander City. For more info, call (256) 472-5665 or visit http://russellmarine.net/ kowaliga-marina/. Pike Road Arts Council Presents The Magic of America Art Show: A Celebration of Summer 8 a.m.-noon coffee and snacks. Pike Road Arts Center’s Water House Gallery, 944 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road. After today, exhibit is open Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sundays, 1-4 p.m. throughout July and August. For more info, call (334) 272-9883 or visit www.pikeroad.us. Pike Road Community Club Fourth of July Parade 9:30 a.m. at the Pike Road Schools Historic Campus. For details, call (334) 272-9883 or visit www.pikeroad. us. SummerFest Fourth of July Celebration 4:30-9:30 p.m. The Waters Neighborhood, 2283 Marler Rd., Pike Rd. As always, Summer Fest will feature food, family-friendly fun and fireworks. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy live music. Food will be available for purchase, but coolers are welcome. The night will culminate with a fireworks spectacular overlooking Lake Cameron, Montgomery County’s largest lake. Admission is $10 per vehicle. Visit www.pikeroad.us. Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 819-7483. Fourth of July Blast: Concert and Fireworks 5:45 p.m. The AMP on Lake Martin, 8878 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic. Come claim your spot on the Grassy Lawn before 5:45, when The Bank Walkers will take the stage with some great Lake Martin based music! Around 7:30 we’ll have a Hula Hoop Contest and this year the Twist Contest will be back, with prizes for the best hooper and twister! Then around 8, from Gadsden, we welcome The Tyn Tymes! Fireworks will begin at 9, and then the Tyn Tymes will take the stage again and play until 10:30. Tickets are only $10 each and can be found at www. theamponlakemartin.com/. Prattville’s Independence Day Celebration 9 a.m. Parade through Downtown Prattville, ending at Pratt Park where the Lions Club will host its Annual BBQ fundraiser with music, a patriotic program, and arts and crafts. The Cardboard Boat Races, starting at 10:30 a.m., are a great way for families to work together and compete in a fun swimming pool event. The day will end with a FREE concert at 6 p.m. at Stanley-Jensen Stadium featuring Creativity and a huge fireworks display beginning at dark. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.
Friday, July 5
Arti Gras at Russell Crossroads -- Also July 6 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 19 Russell Farms Road, Alexander City. Artisans and patrons from all over gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! For more info, e-mail tmitchell@russelllands.com.
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Friday on the Green -- Also July 12. 19 & 26; August 2 6:30-8:30 p.m. Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Grab your family, even the pup – don’t forget the leash, a lawn chair if you want, a cooler if you’re thirsty, and join your pals and make some new ones. For more info, call (256) 397-1019 or visit www. russellcrossroads.com/. July 5: Jonathan Bloom; July 12: Murray Brown; July 19: Sid Phelps; July 26: Ben Sutton; August 2: Ella Langley
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Montgomery Biscuits Baseball MGM Friday & Fireworks -- Also July 19 & August 2 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Every Friday, we celebrate what makes Montgomery special. We’ve partnered with local leaders, influencers, businesses, schools, and more to create nights that show how special our Capitol city is. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 819-7483.
Mu 21 4:3 For sell July 28:
First Friday Cruise-Ins 5:30-7 p.m. 36 Dexter Ave., Montgomery. The lower block of Dexter Ave. will be closed off once the featured vehicles are in place. Numerous restaurants and food trucks will be open including Alabama Sweet Tea Company, Momma Goldberg’s, FRIOS Pops, Cuco’s Mexican Café and others. Join us for some free family friendly fun. For more info, visit www.LowerDexter.org or call (334) 273-0313.
Saturday, July 6
Guided Nature Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. Hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced ANC naturalist by your side. Learn how to bird or ID plants and animals, splash through the creek, or catch insects in the meadow! General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call (334) 285-4550. First Saturday Music Series 6-8:30 p.m. Common Bond Brewers, 424 Bibb Street, Suite #150, Montgomery. Featuring Spearman Brewers. This is a free, family-friendly event. Outside food welcome. Bring the family and enjoy good tunes and good brews. Call (334) 676-2287 or find us on Facebook. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. All locations. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is a custom toy tow truck with an operational boom to rescue model vehicles from ditches and embankments, move disabled vehicles or simply put the model on display. Once your project is built, decorate it with paint and stickers. Each child also receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://homedepot.com/ workshops/kids-workshops. Prattville/Autauga Farmers’ Market -Every Saturday 7 a.m.-noon at the grove on Doster Road across from Gillespie Center and Pratt Park. Along with a variety of farmers with locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs and more, there will be a variety of other vendors with plants, soap, baked goods, and more. A guest chef will create tasty dishes using fresh produce from the farmers. For more info, call (334) 595-0851. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also July 13 & 20 10 a.m.-noon. $3 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3-8. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. July 6 is Happy Face Jar; July 13 is Craft Stick Lemonade Stand; and July 20 is Sunny Cookie Decorating. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/.
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FamilyCalendar Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market -Every Saturday Through August 31 7 a.m.-noon. Support Alabama farmers and local businesses every Saturday at EastChase Farmers Market. Find a variety of locally grown produce, whole milk, artisian breads, honey, goats milk soap, eggs and much more! For more info, visit www. theshoppesateastchase.com/ or call (334) 279-6046.
Sunday, July 7
Music On The Deck at Kowaliga- Also July 14, 21 & 28; August 4 4:30-7:30 p.m. Kowaliga Restaurant, Lake Martin. For more info, call (256) 215-7035 or visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/. July 7: Britt and Kurt; July 14: Jilla Webb; July 21: Jonathan Bloom; July 28: Russell Craig; Aug. 4: Sid Phelps.
Tuesday, July 9
Prattville Creekwalk Concert Series -Also July 23
6:308:30 p.m. Autauga Creekwalk behind City Hall, just off South Chestnut Street. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Coolers are welcome, but no alcoholic beverages or glass containers are allowed. Concerts are free and open to the public. July 9: American Dream Factory; July 23: Becky Folmar and the Bama Sound. For more info, call (334) 595-0850 or visit www. prattvilleal.gov/special-events/creekwalk-concertseries.html.
Wednesday, July 10
Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -Also July 18 & 25 2:30-3 p.m. ArtWorks at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the arts of different cultures. ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing, and traditions of the country in focus (this month is Ireland). Connections will also be made to works in the Museum’s galleries. Classes are limited to 25 students. First come, first serve. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. 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. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.
Thursday, July 11
Friday, July 12
Children’s Movie Matinees at the Capri -- Thursdays and Fridays through July 26 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. All tickets are $2. Soda and popcorn will be sold for .50 each. July 11-12: Wallace & Gromit; July 18-19: Wonder Park; July 25-26: Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.
Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also July 26 10 a.m.-noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month yearround (except during November and December). Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http:// www.onlineecho.com.
City of Millbrook Hosts FREE Tunes on the Green Also July 25 6:30 p.m. at Village Green, Main Street in Millbrook. Free live music event for the family! Bring your lawn chairs and coolers, but no glass or alcoholic beverages allowed. Food vendors on site. July 11 band is Mortar Creek Redemption Company and July 25 is Rob Thornhill. For more info, call (334) 290-2047.
Saturday, July 13
Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Terry Turner: The Voice of Legends 7:30 p.m. Including impressions of Elvis, Willie Nelson, Conway Twitty and Tom Jones. Reserved tickets $20; general admission $15. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com/.
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FamilyCalendar U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour -- Cottonwood Golf Course For more info, see July 2 listing. Backyard Bass Casting Skills at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. Learn how to use a spin casting rod and reel (closed face), and work on our casting technique. Today is all about honing your casting skills! At the end we may even have a little competition to see who can catch the most “backyard” bass! Recommended ages 5 and up. General admission applies and includes this awesome program: $5/ person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Zoo Volunteer Serve Day Summer 2019 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. Volunteers are needed to help with landscaping, raking leaves, painting, and overall prepping the Zoo for the Summer season. Volunteers can be adults, teens, civic groups, school groups, church groups, businesses, military squadrons, and families. Volunteers ages 12-16 years old must be accompanied by a parent or a designated group chaperone. For more info or to register, call (334) 625-4900 or register at www.montgomeryzoo.com/. AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also July 27 For guests and families living with autism or other special needs, AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer
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unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! This program is available on second and fourth Saturdays (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don’t forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly. Whole Foods Second Saturday Kids Club 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Each second Saturday, Whole Foods will host fun, hands-on craft activities to teach kids about healthy eating. It’s totally free, and every participant gets a piece of fruit and whatever they make in the workshop! For more info, call (334) 523-2940 or visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/montgomery. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/events/1374454692792666 /?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800
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Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and preregistration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com. Second Saturdays at Old Alabama Town 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Second Saturdays bring special programs for the whole family including crafts, music, lectures and more! This month, Brady Jackson, a master blacksmith from the Alabama Folk School, hosts a demonstration. Located in north Alabama, the Alabama Folk School provides an opportunity to be inspired and renewed while learning from and experiencing master artists, artisans and musicians. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www. oldalabamatown.com/.
Sunday, July 14
Second Sunday at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Family Art Affair, Jazz Jams, and our popular docent-led Sunday tours are now on the second Sunday of every month. Bring the whole family for this multifaceted Museum experience Drop in anytime between 2 and 4 PM for this free offering. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.
Monday, July 15
Prattville Art Camp -- Through July 19 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for students ages 7-12. Students will be able to work in a variety of art media, such as
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painting, drawing, clay, collage, etc. They will create several works of art throughout the week. Cost is $75 per week and includes supplies. To register, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.
Wednesday, July 17
Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -Also August 7 Noon-1 p.m. Does your yoga practice need a little artistic inspiration? Join us for this new program to stretch, reflect and relax. Each Artful Yoga session will draw inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the Museum. Led by instructor Nancy Beale. The class is free and suitable for all levels; beginners are welcome. Bring your yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/discover/artfulyoga/ or call (334) 240-4333.
Wednesday, June 19
See Me: Exploring Still Life at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 p.m. Led by ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan, individuals with special needs (ages 6 and older) will explore still life works in the galleries and then create mixed-media still life artwork. Free but registration required. Call (334) 625-4365.
Thursday, July 18
Cloverdale Playhouse Presents The True Adventures of Pinocchio -- Through July 28 7:30 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturday;
2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. Translated and adapted from Italian by Louis Lippa, based on the story by Carlo Collodi and directed by J. Scott Grinstead. Featuring the well-known tale of the wooden boy who must learn some hard lessons before he can become real. Filled with theatrical magic and imagination, this classic story finds new life on the stage. For more info, call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/. Food For Thought Noon-1 p.m. The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “A History of Hops: Craft Brewing in Alabama,” presented by Jason Wilson. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov. Capri Theatre Presents Jaws 7:30 p.m. 1975 classic starring Roy Scheider and Richard Dreyfuss. It’s summertime on Amity Island, and body parts are turning up. Standing in the shark’s way is overwhelmed police chief Martin Brody, professional shark hunter Quint, and oceanographer Matt Hooper. The shark may be big, but the guys have a big boat. Last time we showed Jaws, we almost sold out. Get your tickets ASAP! For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.
Friday, July 19
Montgomery Film Festival -- Also July 20 7:30 p.m. both nights. Capri Theatre. The Montgomery Film Festival showcases the works of amateur and professional filmmakers within Alabama, the U.S. and internationally in short film & feature length format. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.
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Saturday, July 20
Radical Raptors at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. Come learn about birds of prey! The Alabama Wildlife Center will be out with their raptors. Learn about these fascinating creatures and their conservation concerns and threats. General admission applies and includes this awesome program: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Animal Enrichment Day at Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-2 p.m. From zoo animals to our pets at home and even including us, we all need enrichment. A chance to smell a new scent, taste a new flavor, play a new game or figure out a challenging puzzle or game. The result is to stimulate behaviors resembling those for that species found in the wild. It is a lot of trial and error, but it is always fun. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www. montgomeryzoo.com/. Highlight Tours 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view and latest exhibitions at the Museum with docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. These tours are free and open to the public, no reservations required. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.
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Rock the Block 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Frazer Soccer Fields. A block party featuring food, fun and inflatables. Part of our Reach 2019 initiative to stretch out with the love of God and invite others in to a relationship with Christ. For more info, call (334) 495-6397 or visit http://frazer. church/event/rock-the-block.
Union Springs Red Door Theatre Presents Dixie Swim Club -- Through July 28 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2:30 p.m. matinee July 28. Written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope & James Wooten; directed By Kathryn Adams Wood. Five Southern women, whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team, set aside a long weekend every August to recharge those relationships. Over four weekends in a span of 33 years, their lives unfold and each relies increasingly on the others for advice and validation in this hilarious and touching comedy. Tickets are $15 and may be ordered at (334) 738-8687 or www. reddoortheatre.org.
Sunday, July 21
Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Oklahoma! -- Through August 11 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2 p.m. matinees July 28, August 4 and 11. This classic musical is a family favorite and is suitable for all ages. It is based on the play Green Grow the Lilacs, with music by Richard Rodgers, book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein, II, and dances by Agnes de Mille. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door (if available). For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit cc.prattvilleal.gov.
MPAC Presents Henry Cho 6 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Henry Cho is a comedian, TV host, and has appeared in numerous movies. His clean comedy can be heard daily on Sirrus, XM, Blue Collar Radio and Pandora. He has toured with Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Willie Nelson, Carrie Underwood and Reba. Tickets begin at $17. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.
Tuesday, July 23
Wetumpka Depot Players & Wetumpka High Theatre Guild Present Big Fish -- Also July 25-27 7:30 p.m. Presented on the campus of Wetumpka High Sschool. Written by Andrew Lippa and John August; directed by Kristy Meanor. Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, Big Fish centers on Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest… and then some! Edward’s incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him. But his son Will, about to have a child of his own, is determined to discover the secrets his father never revealed. For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.
Wednesday, July 24
Moonlight Movies on the Green 7:30 p.m. Shoppes at EastChase. Grab your chair, blankets, kids and even your pups and come out to Moonlight Movies on the Green! Back by popular request we are showing the all-time fave, Mean Girls, on the big screen adjacent to Pies & Pints. Sponsored by our friends at Guardian Credit Union! For more info, call (334) 279-6046.
Thursday, July 25
Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon All women of the River Region are invited to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. Guest speaker will be Larry Carter, the chairman for the Montgomery Area Council of Aging. Luncheon cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, July 22, to Janie Kennett at (813) 309-0300 or JMKennett12@ yahoo.com. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com for more info. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Join this monthly program for Museum members during which artists share one artwork apiece and receive feedback from their peers. Enjoy light refreshments and networking with other professionals in this unique program whether or not you choose to bring artwork. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4365. Cost: $50 for the series of 12 meetings or $5 drop-in fee for single meetings.
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
Saturday, July 27
Sterling Miss USA Pageant -- Also July 28 Competition open to girls age 4 to 21 in Pell City, Ala. Contestants in each of the seven age divisions will compete for cash scholarships and prizes. During their yearlong reign, they will enjoy numerous activities including a visit with Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, a free Queens’ and Individual Photo Shoot, a Queens’ Beach Trip and various other events, appearances and community service projects. For more info, visit www. SterlingMiss.org and click on the Sterling USA Tab. Bees are Buzzing and Honey Extraction at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. Learn about pollination, bee keeping, and the equipment used in bee keeping. Guests will get to taste some local honey as well! Honey jars will be for sale in the bear den gift shop. General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. ‘Swinging For Vets’ Event 6 p.m.-1 a.m.The Thirsty Turtle, 4884 Main St., Millbrook.A night full of great music, food, auctions, raffles, and fun as we raise money for the American Legion Veterans’ Retreat! All monies raised will go to send local veterans suffering from anxiety disorders (like PTSD) to camp for the weekend. Live music starts at 6 p.m. with several local bands performing throughout the night with Jeff and the Johnsons taking the stage at 9 p.m. For more info, call (334) 303-1756. Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Christmas in July 6:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Christmas Vacation tribute and MAX fireworks. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 819-7483. An Evening With Big Fish Author Dan Wallace at Wetumpka Depot Theatre 4 p.m. This special event will celebrate the closing night of the Wetumpka Depot Players and Wetumpka High Theatre Guild’s production of Big Fish, The Musical. Wallace spent some time in Wetumpka during the filming of the Big Fish movie. His talk will not only cover his writing of the book, but also of his memories and involvement with the filming of the movie
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in Wetumpka. Afterwards, there will be a social time with a Spectre-style picnic and book signing in the lobby of the Depot. There will be plenty of time for participants to get to the 7:30 showing of Big Fish, the Musical at Wetumpka High School, 1251 Coosa River Parkway, Wetumpka. Tickets are $45 each and include the presentation by Daniel Wallace, the awesome food, and one ticket to the musical on that evening. Copies of Big Fish will be available for purchase and signing. There is limited space, and tickets will be sold at the Wetumpka Public Library, 212 S. Main Street Wetumpka (334-567-1308). Made for Moms Expo 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Multiplex at the Cramton Bowl, 220 Hall St. Admission is free! This event is a fantastic opportunity for moms to get out of the house for a couple hours and experience something just for them. The expo will feature WSFA 12 News personalities, guest speakers, vendors, a fashion show, goody bags and more. For booth space, e-mail madeformoms@ wsfa.com or call (334) 288-1212.
Sunday, July 28
SHINDIG at WinterPlace 5 p.m. Cottage Hill, 454 S Goldthwaite St. FREE, familyfriendly event in the heart of Cottage Hill Historic District featuring live music by Cameron Dubois. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, family and friends, and join us for a fun summer afternoon with good music, food + drinks, art and more. Local food trucks, artists and makers. This event benefits Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center, a Montgomery nonprofit that assists local investigators with child abuse cases. Call (334) 262-1220 for more info. Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Stars on the Riverfront -- Also July 29 7:30 p.m. Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce Street. Bring the entire family and a picnic to one of these two spectacular free performances. These eclectic performances are the culmination of ADT’s twoweek Summer Dance Seminar and will feature more than 50 dancers. Gates open at 6 p.m. for picnicking. This event is FREE and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 625-2590 or visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com/.
Wednesday, July 31
Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Military Wednesday 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. The Biscuits thank our military men and women with discounted admission and concession prices! For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 819-7483.
Thursday, August 1
Pike Road Arts Council Presents The Magic of America Art Show: A Celebration of Summer 6-8 p.m. Opening reception. Pike Road Arts Center’s Water House Gallery, 944 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road. Exhibit is open Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sundays, 1-4 p.m. throughout August. For more info, call (334) 272-9883 or visit www.pikeroad.us. Wetumpka Depot Players Present Master Harold and the Boys -- Also August 2-4; 8-10 7:30 p.m. performances except 2 p.m. matinee August 4. Written by Athol Fugard; directed by Tony Davison. In a small tea shop in South Africa, two black men and a young boy joke and dance together, defying the brutalities of apartheid through their joyous love. But festering issues of family, race and power are not so easy to ignore, and a single phone
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Friday, August 2
Still Creek Trek at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. This is a chance to cool off and maybe even find some animals that call the creek home! Be prepared to get wet. Bringing a change of clothes is suggested, shoes or sandals (chacos or tevas) are required; no flip flops. You will not need a life jacket. General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.
MPAC Presents The Charlie Daniels Band 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. From his Dove Award-winning gospel albums to his genredefining Southern rock anthems and his CMA Awardwinning country hits, few artists have left a more indelible mark on America’s musical landscape than Charlie Daniels. Tickets begin at $27. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Jurassic Quest -- Through August 4 3-8 p.m. Renaissance Montgomery Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Jurassic Quest is America’s largest and most realistic dinosaur event. Guests will walk through the Cretaceous period, the Jurassic Period and the Triassic period and experience for themselves what it was like to be among living, breathing dinosaurs. Jurassic Quest is the only dinosaur event that has true to life-size dinosaurs. Hours on Saturday & Sunday are 9 a.m.-8 p.m. For more info, call (936) 588-3332.
Saturday, August 3
Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Kurt H. Sutton as Mark Twain and Mr. Clemens Also August 4 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. Reserved tickets $20; general admission $15. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com/. Heartland Militaria Expo -- Also August 4 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Multiplex @ Cramton Bowl. General Admission - $10; Vets/LEO/ Firefighters - $9; Children under 12 - Free. If you bring an item to sell or trade you will get $1 off admission. For more info, visit http://heartlandmilitari-
Old Cahawba True Crime Walking Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Despite its short-lived grasp on prosperity, civilization and refinement, Cahawba was a frontier town that never lost its frontier mentality. From feuding families delivering street justice to colorful characters threatening to assassinate the President, Cahawba’s corruption will be revealed on this one-hour guided walking tour. Call (334) 8728058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook.com/oldcahawba. Admission is $8/ person.
Sunday, August 4
MPAC Presents James Gregory 6 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. An evening of non-stop laughter with a wry sense of the absurd, a Southern accent and universal storytelling. The ridiculous, the common and sometimes even the simplest events all become hilarious in the hands of this master storyteller and world-class comedian. Tickets begin at $20. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.
Thursday, August 8
Capri Theatre Presents Mission: Impossible 7:30 p.m. 1996 movie featuring Tom Cruise. There’s a mole in the Impossible Missions Force. You know it isn’t Ethan Hunt, who goes on to lead the Mission Impossible franchise, but that still leaves plenty of suspects, betrayals, tricks, explosions, chases, and red herrings. Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to come watch Ethan find the mole. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.
Saturday, August 10
U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour -- Arrowhead Country Club (Tour Championship) For more info, see July 2 listing. Youth Fishing Rodeo at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 7-11 a.m. Open to anyone age 15 and under. Admission is free; however, participants are asked to pre-register as space is limited and all youth must be accompanied by an adult. Each young angler will receive a t-shirt and will be eligible for door prizes. Snacks and drinks available. Each participant may take home five catfish each, but may catch and release all they would like. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment and bait, though a limited number of loaner rods and some bait will be available. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.
Classes
Adoptive Parent Training Classes Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections recruits, prepares, and supports parents adopting waiting children in Alabama’s foster care. For information on adoptive parent classes or to register for classes in Alabama, contact our team at (866) 803-2722 or visit apac@ childrensaid.org. Baptist East Maternity Area Virtual Tour We invite you to visit our hospital from the comfort of wherever you are. A personal tour of Baptist Medical Center East’s Maternity Area is now just a click away. This virtual tour is designed to answer any questions you may have regarding our “familycentered maternity care.” Receive an inside look at our Labor and Delivery Suites, Newborn Nursery, Post-Partum and NICU units. From admission to discharge, this video provides all of the information you and your family needs to know. Visit www. baptistfirst.org/.
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SupportGroups Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org to register or for more info. Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about
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a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Cloverdale Playhouse Rep Class Series Remaining 2019 dates are: June 3, August 5, October 7 and December 2 from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cloverdale Playhouse Rehearsal Hall. This is a safe space to work on your craft, develop your audition skills, share your newest piece, or just get feedback on your latest artistic endeavor. Guest panels and rotating faculty ensure constant growth and a variety of insight. Even if you don’t perform every time you can learn a lot by observing! There will be a sign-up sheet if you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions. 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.
breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth Preparation (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South. This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 286-3466. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 747-7700 Option # for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 747-7700 Option # for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www. Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@alabamachild.org. Infant Car Seat Safety Inspection Baptist Health’s Certified Car Seat Safety Technician will help set your mind at ease. Expectant parents can register for a one-on-one car seat installation session tailored to your vehicle. Our goal is to ensure your confidence in a safe ride home from the hospital. Space is limited. Pre-registration required Must provide your own car seat! $10 per car seat payable at the time of inspection by cash or check. Visit www.baptistfirst.org/ or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help
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parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@jackson.org. Preparing For A Natural Birth (One Time Class) Baptist Medical Center East. Please bring two bed pillows and a floor mat to class for breathing and relaxation exercise. This class equips expectant parents with natural childbirth options providing them with tools, techniques and coping skills for their labor and delivery experience. Participants will practice breathing and relaxation exercises along with other comfort measures. This class is most beneficial when your support person attends. Space is limited. Pre-registration required. Class fee: $20 (couple or single) payable at class by cash or check. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org or call 273-4445. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are June 19 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info. Wetumpka Line Dance Classes held at A Chance to Dance, 68 Queen Ann Road, Wetumpka. Country and Non-Country Music for All Ages! CURRENT CLASS SCHEDULE: Mon. Beginner 7:15 p.m.; Wed. Beginner 10 a.m.; Wed. Senior 2 p.m.; Wed. Intermediate 7 p.m.; Fri. High Beginner/ Intermediate 7 p.m. *Open Dance to follow class. For more info, call (334) 452-0293 or find us on Facebook.
Support Groups Adoption Support
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd
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SupportGroups Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., at Vaughn Forest Church. For more info, contact Jill Sexton at 409-9477 or jsexton@childrensaid.org. Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Kathy King at (205) 943-5331 or e-mail kking@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.
Cancer Support
American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS2345 for more info.
OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800-ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.
Divorce Support
DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. For more info, call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@frazerumc.org. DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc. org or 241-5125. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@ morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com.
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SupportGroups Gambling Support
Gamblers Anonymous Meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 6 p.m. and Mondays @ 6:30 p.m.: meet at Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US Hwy. 231 N in the Wetumpka/Wallsboro community. The church is 1 1/2 miles past Tutweiler prison on the same side of the street. Sundays @ 5 p.m.: meet at Mental Health of America, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. For more information about the GA meetings, call (334) 399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker, please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at (334) 277-5100.
Grief Support
Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@ aol.com for more info. Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 279-6677. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. GriefShare meets on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in the parlor of First United Methodist Church Prattville. Led by Michael Beatty. For more info, call the church office at (334) 365-5977. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. 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. 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
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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. River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.
Homeschool Support
ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays yearround 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
OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Ostomy Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Highway. Meets every other month on 2nd Sundays at 1:30 p.m. in Room 3101. 2018 meetings are in June, August, October and December. Call 495-6350 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Millbrook City Chamber of Commerce meeting room, 34531 Main Street in Millbrook. Saturdays at a.m. Trouble with food? Do you worry about the way you eat? Overeaters Anonymous can help. It’s not a diet club; it’s a fellowship of people who don’t want to suffer anymore. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. There are no dues, fees, or weigh-ins. Visit our new meeting in the area. All are welcome! For more info, call (662) 425-2010 or visit www.oa.org.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 495-6350.
Parkinson’s Support, Frazer UMC Activity Bldg. Room 8114, on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 495-6350.
Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss Support Group Meets at 6 p.m. third Wednesdays at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka. Group is for those living with or caring for someone with memory loss. This will be a monthly event that will provide information, a time to share and listen to others experiencing what you are, a time to be supported in your struggles and to share your victories. All are invited. Sometimes caregivers just need to talk with those that understand their struggles. For more info, call (334) 235-4151 or visit The Gathering Place Community Respite on Facebook.
Parent Support
Diabetes Support Group Noon-1 p.m. and 4-5 p.m., fourth Thursdays, Jackson Hospital Park Place Building Suite 302. Are you interested in learning how to better manage your Type 2 diabetes? Would you like support from others as you work to control your diabetes? Sponsored by inpatient diabetes educator Michelle Carothers, this group offers clinical information, advice and tips to make living with diabetes easier for you and your family. Register today! Call (334) 293-8574 or e-mail michelle.carothers@jackson.org. 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 info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance on Mental Illness) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 7205 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. NAMI also presents a 12-week series of free classes on mental illness. These classes are for family members living with or supporting individuals with mental illness. To register, call Pat Cobb at (334) 279-8331. NAMI Connection (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a support group for individuals with mental illness. It meets every Thursday from 6-7:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Call Pat Cobb at (334) 279-8331 for more info.
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Century Strong Moms 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 11 Chapel Hill Street in Pike Road. At Century Church, we are dedicated to helping moms in our community be Strong Moms! This ministry is open to all moms in our community. The focus of this group is to build relationships through Bible study, play dates, and moms’ night out. Childcare is available for ages 1-5 years old. Please e-mail lifegroups@century.church for more info. D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. GirlTime at East Memorial Baptist Church 9:30-11:30 a.m. 2nd Tuesdays at various locations in Prattville. GirlTime is open to ladies of all ages. Visit eastmemorial.org or call the church office at (334) 365-7500 for info. Childcare is provided at the church. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery. AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@ llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a Bible study community for moms of preschoolers. It is a Frazer United Methodist Church-supported ministry to reach moms of the community through encouragment and prayer during these early years of raising our kids. Join us for weekly Bible studies focusing on parenting, marriage, women’s studies and more. Childcare provided for newborn-K5. For more info, e-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org.
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SupportGroups Moms in Prayer International is a Christcentered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gather to pray for their children and schools. Meets every Sunday afternoon from 3-4 p.m. at St. James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road. Call Annette Jones at (850) 529-4730 or e-mail Montgomerymipac@gmail.com for more info on joining us or training to start your own group. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www. montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a timeout? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail. com or visit http://vfcmops. weebly.com/.
Pregnancy Loss/Infertility
First Choice Women’s Medical Center conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet for one weeknight over eight consecutive weeks and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. Confidientiality is assured. Please contact Kathy at (334) 260-8010
or kkay@firstchoicewmc.com for more details and information about upcoming groups. Post-Abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the
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SupportGroups One who came to set you free. Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) For more info, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 9132667 for more information.
Single Parents Support
Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. 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 for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.
Special Needs Support
Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. Visit www.alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www. easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. D.A.T.S. M.O.M. (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move), a nonprofit parent empowerment organization for parents of children on the autism spectrum (or with related special needs challenges) that focuses on inspiring, equipping and motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@ yahoo.com for more information. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@ gmail.com for more info.
Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org.
Teens/Families Support
Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 270-4100 for information about current classes. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.
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AdvertiserDirectory
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We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource
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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.
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Frazer Memorial UMC, 25, 81
Newtopia, 61
Frutta Bowls, 67
OB/GYN Associates, 77
2211 Playzone, 51
Guardian Credit Union, 15
OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 59
Adventure Sports II, 78
Guild Mortgage, 9
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 35
Alabama Christian Academy, 23
Hempworx, 87
Pet Palace Hotel, 45
AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front, 7
Hooper Academy, 28
Prattville YMCA, 48
Alabama Dance Theatre, 7
Hope Inspired Ministries, 41
Professional Pediatrics, 12
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 55
Inflatables of Montgomery, 39
RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back
Alpha & Omega Learning Ctr, 83
Jackson Hospital, 75
Resurrection Catholic School, 34
ASKIN/Synergy House, 87
Jason’s Deli, 63
Riverview Camp for Girls, 22
Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 70
Jeff Dickey, New Waters Realty, 42
Saint James School, 1
Baptist Health, 3, 57
Judy Barranco Photography, 70
Saint James UMC, 11
Bell Family Chiropractic, 66
Kingry Orthodontics, 21
Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 2
Bush Pediatric Dentistry, 38
Kreative Moments, 32
Smoothie King Montgomery, 87
Chapman Orthodontics, 28
Lakeview Baptist Church, 35
Snapology, 68
Churchill Academy, 21
Larry Chapman, ALFA Insurance, 49
Spotless Cleaning Services, 27
Dance Generation, 16
LEAD Academy, 30
Success Unlimited Academy, 37, 52
David Woods for Mayor, 33
Learning Tree Child Care, 26
Sylvan Learning Center, 29
Dentistry for Children, 67
Lil’ Priss Parties, 51
Sylvan Learing of Prattville, 59
Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 16
Macon East Academy, 34
Taylor Road Baptist Church, 83
Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 89
Mathnasium, 13
The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover
EdTech, 82
Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 39
Tonya Speed Dance Connection, 42
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 78
Montessori @ Mulberry, 19
Trinity Presbyterian School, 17
Emergency Solutions, 68
Montgomery Catholic Schools, 43
Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 32
Evangel Christian Academy, 79
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 85
United Gymstars & Cheer, 31
Family Guidance Center, 64
Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 46
Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 89
First Baptist Church, 73
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 60
XiRepair, 8
First Baptist Prattville, 48
New Park, 4
Young Living Essential Oils, 87 91
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MP: Ruthie, you have a successful career as an artist. Did you begin this career while your children were young? Ruthie: Art is a part of my day, every day, whether I’m setting a table scape, rearranging flowers, or painting a canvas. When our children were young I scheduled a time during the day for art. I enjoyed that and I needed that! We did it all, from sidewalk chalk to paint to crayons. As they got older I worked to individually nurture their love to create. Today they each have creative hobbies! When my children were home I always had a paintbrush in my hand, but I did not paint full time until my nest was empty.
Ruthie Carlson
MP: You’ve heard the saying: “It takes a village”. Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood? Ruthie: Parenting absolutely takes a village. I am so thankful for family and friends who sweetly travel this road with us. It fills each day with joy. Also, I am truly thankful for a generational church with older women who sweetly love and encourage and share wisdom, and young women who breathe energy and life into every day.
MP: Raising five kids is a big handful! What advice can you give to those in the throes of raising several children? What things did you implement to help you in your home while raising your kids?
MP: Has your perspective on raising children changed now that your children are grown?
Ruthie: With young children at home I know it is difficult to find a quiet moment. However, I would encourage you to get up early and spend time with the Lord. If you have early risers, give them a book and train them to sit with you for just 5 to 10 minutes so you can be in the Word. Secondly, it’s easy to allow children, whether you have one or five, to consume your life. I would remind moms to nurture their relationship with their husbands. Empty nest is a lot more fun when you have invested in your marriage and you love your husband. Thirdly, I would encourage moms to nurture relationships at home. It is okay to say no and stay home. I think it is so important to teach your children to love each other and to love home. Lastly, I am a firm believer in a schedule. Having a great schedule every day provided me with confidence in knowing what to expect and gave my children the security of structure.
Ruthie: My perspective on raising children now that my children are grown has not changed. It is still my privilege to get to teach my children every day to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, and mind. MP: You are soon to be a grandmother! How can you describe that? How different does it feel from waiting to be a mother for the first time? Ruthie: I cannot wait to be a grandmother! I am so excited to come alongside my children and encourage them in this new adventure. What a blessing! It feels so different from expecting as a mom. Becoming a mom for the first time, there was a definite fear of the unknown. Becoming a grandmother for the first time is like icing on the cake. All the good stuff. I cannot wait! MP: What traits of yours do you see in your children? Ruthie: I love that my children love home like I do! I absolutely adore watching them make homes. It touches my heart so sweetly when I see them cook dinner or decorate their kitchen for a birthday celebration. However, without a shadow of a doubt, my greatest joy is that Jesus has each one of their names etched in the palm of His hand.
MP: How would you describe your parenting style? Ruthie: I think first realizing that I didn’t have a “style” or a clue of how to parent was really important. Mainly because it kept me on my knees and seeking God first. I would say that my husband and I based our parenting style on the scripture found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9 “... you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”
Montgomery Parents I July 2019
MP: If you could go back to when you first became a mother, what would you say to yourself? Ruthie: I would say spend time with Jesus every day, nurture your relationship with your husband every day, and enjoy your children every day.
Ruthie Carlson has been married to the man of her dreams for almost 31 years. She and Eddie have five children ranging in ages from 23 to 29, and are expecting their first grandchild. You can view her art at https://www.ruthiecarlson.com.
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O U R G R A D UAT E S A R E
C O N F I D E N T, BALANCED INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE READY TO SOAR TO NEW HEIGHTS. [ PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE ]
The Montgomery Academy Class of 2019 has claimed numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 55 students, with acceptances to 72 different institutions of higher learning, they will be attending 27 different colleges and universities this fall. 45 members of this class have been offered a total of $7,427,025 in merit-based scholarship money. This class celebrates the recognition of two students being named National Merit Finalists and 20 students being named AP Scholars by the College Board. Members of this class have played vital roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing 9 state championships, while at the same time contributing to the visual and performing arts with local, state, and national recognition. And if you ask any member of this graduating class, they’ll tell you that they feel well-prepared for their next steps into this dynamic, exciting world. Soar, Eagle, soar!
Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y The Pursuit of Excellence in K-12 Education Contact Rachael Gallagher, admissions@montgomeryacademy.org | 334.272.8210 | montgomeryacademy.org