Montgomery Parents July 2014 by KeepSharing

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Depending on your child’s vaccination history, certain vaccines may be needed. Ask your healthcare provider about the following vaccinations for your child: Ages 4-6

Ages 16 and older

DTap • Polio • MMR--2nd Dose • Varicella--2nd Dose

• Meningococcal booster • Varicella--If your child has not had the first dose by age 13, two doses are needed. • HepB--Recommended if your child has not had the shots. Three doses are needed. • MMR--If your child has not had the first dose, two doses are needed.

•

Ages 11-12 • Tdap--Required • HPV--Recommended for boys and girls to prevent most genital warts and cervical cancers as well as some other cancers. This is a 3-dose series. • Meningococcal--1st dose • Varicella--If your child has not had the first dose by age 13, two doses are needed.

Flu vaccines are recommended for all children over six months of age and will be available beginning in the Fall.

For more information, go to

adph.org or download the free adph app.

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

Saint James School for pre k3-12th grade admissions

6010 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery

334.273.2992

stjweb.org

English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

Recognized by Apple as a distinguished school for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence.

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New city? New church! Whether you are a military family, job transfer, or just new to the community, we know change can be hard. Finding a place of worship can help. At Frazer we welcome new faces. We invite you to explore our faith family, discover our ministries for children, students and adults, and learn more about how you can get connected at frazerumc.org.

Frazer Church: find hope, Follow Jesus • Sunday worship 8, 9:30 & 11AM 6000 atlanta Hwy. Montgomery • frazerumc.org • 334.2728622 • Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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FAMILY ACADEMICS EXCELLENCE CHAPEL ATHLETICS TECHNOLOGY

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O ni Macon East Academy is an independent, college preparatory school focused on excellence in academics, athletics, and achievement. Our accelerated curriculum is complemented by offerings in performing and visual arts, music, foreign language, and over 20 interscholastic sports, as well as a 1:1 Apple iPad program for students in grades 1 - 12. At Macon East, our students are held to high standards in all areas of student life, and Christian values are reinforced throughout all school programs. Small class sizes and a safe, nurturing environment give every student the opportunity to excel. Macon East is more than a school; we are a family. Schedule a campus tour today, and find out why Macon East is the right school for your student.

Macon East Academy

15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566

Located 7 miles east of Chantilly Parkway, just minutes from Montgomery

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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July2014

Volume 19 Number 7

Columns

6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Hosting a “Fancy Friends” Birthday

High School’s Final Year

A thorough look at supporting your college-bound child.

Glam it up with this unique party for boys and girls of all ages.

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen

40 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

42 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Jeffery E. Langham

46 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

54 Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

2014 Birthday Party Guide

Unplug for Deeper Connection

Our local guide will make planning your event easier than ever.

Seven ideas to strengthen your family’s connection.

On The Cover Cameron Aiden Gage (age 3) attends Children’s Learning Center of First Baptist Church. His parents are LaMetrie Jackson and Curtis Gage, and he has one sister, Alexia Jackson (age 10). Cameron is an energetic little boy who likes playing baseball and basketball. He also loves reading, playing with his Hot Wheels and riding his bike. Cameron is pictured on the Big Red Fire Truck which (along with the Big Green Bus) is available to come to your child’s next birthday party. Find details in this month’s 2014 Birthday Party Guide or visit www.BigGymBus.com. 5

70 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 78 Calendar/Support Groups 91 Advertiser Directory 92 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Editor’sNote When Jason and I first began growing our family, I’ll admit I didn’t give much thought to how soon we’d be sending a child off to college. For years I was consumed by diapers and preschool and activities that fill the lives of parents with young children. Then, of course, there would be 12 long years of school to get through, and surely that would seem like a lifetime. And yet here we are one year away from letting our first born fly from the nest and start life on his own, and time seems to have flown, too. So much preparation and planning goes into getting a child ready for college, and if you have a son or daughter entering 11th or 12th grade, we want to help you get ahead of the game. There’s no need to wait until halfway through their senior year to start applying to colleges, or even for scholarships. And if you haven’t already had some big discussions about what type of school might be the best fit for your child, what your family can afford, and how she will finish her senior year strong without letting “senioritis” creep in, now is definitely the time to start talking. In this month’s issue, you’ll find a thorough look at High School’s Final Year, by Diane Turner Maller. She discusses all the ways you can support your college-bound child and come up with a plan to get you all to the finish line, and ready to start an exciting new phase of life! While sending a child to college is certainly a milestone, every year that we celebrate another birthday in our child’s life is important as well. Our goal as parents is to make sure our kids feel extra special in the days surrounding their birthday, and especially on the big day itself. July is our Annual Birthday Issue and we have some great ideas for you! First, if you feel like you’ve exhausted every party theme over the years and are looking for something new, read How to Host a Fancy Friends Birthday Party . Let them dress up and party in style this year! (Yes, it’s for girls and boys, too.) Next, our 2014 Birthday Party Guide is your local resource for all things birthday, where you’ll find details on where to go for cakes, rentals, party venues and much more. Take special note of our advertisers highlighted in purple and find their corresponding ads throughout the listing. They are ready to serve all your party needs! With summer in full swing, maybe you’re finding that your family is busier than ever, rather than enjoying quality time together. The supposedly “lazy days” of summer are often filled with camps, VBS, and our kids hanging with their friends. Then, when they are home, we find them glued to a computer screen, iPhone or the television. If this describes your family, be sure to read Unplugged Opportunities for Deeper Connection . Michele Ranard offers helpful and easy activities to strengthen your family’s bond during the summer and all year long. Take the initiative to jump out of your normal routine and connect with your kids in a fresh way today!

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

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

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

DeAnne

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2014 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Don’t Allow Fear to Interfere with Parenting Decisions Q: For the first five years of her life, it was just me and my now 13-year-old daughter. I didn’t have a clue as to what I was doing. I wasn’t consistent; I didn’t hold her accountable; I was an enabler. Her behavior toward me became increasingly disrespectful. My second husband tried to open my eyes, but I was in complete denial. Finally, in her pre-teen years, I started to hold her accountable and tried my best to be more consistent. Now, when she disrespects me I take privileges away, assign her extra chores, and send her to her room for the rest of the day. That seems to work, but only for a few days. Then it’s back to square one. Things are especially awful after she spends time with her dad. Lately she’s been yelling that I don’t love her and she’s going to live with her dad once she turns fourteen. I recently went to take away her IPod for a day for defiant behavior. She threw the IPod down, causing it to break, which she blamed me for. Considering I can’t take her IPod away anymore, should

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

I come up with a different consequence or is not allowing her to replace the broken one enough? I’m tempted to empty her room of everything she owns, but I wonder if that’s going too far, if it will completely destroy any chance of a relationship with her. HELP!

A: You’re obviously suffering from what I call “interFEARence,” meaning that you are allowing fear to interfere with making good parenting decisions. The fears include her going to live with her dad, her hating you for life, and imposing unreasonable consequences. Your fears are actually causing you to use consequences in an ineffective manner. Taking her IPod away for ONE WHOLE DAY is a good example. I refer to this sort of disciplinary approach, which is commonplace these days, as “trying to stop a charging elephant with a flyswatter.” Pulling your disciplinary “punches” in this fashion gives your daughter permission to abuse you and generally run roughshod over you. Predictably, her defiance and disrespect are worsening and will continue to do so until you put the proverbial hammer down. And yes, when you put the hammer down, things

will get worse...for a while. After all, she has learned that if she ramps up her disrespect, you act fearful and insecure and begin questioning your own judgment. The old adage applies: Things get worse before they get better. Your daughter needs to see that you (1) will no longer tolerate her disrespect and defiance, (2) have no problem using large, meaningful consequences, and (3) stand your ground proudly in the face of her irrational reaction. You already know what you need to do, but fear is holding you back. When she’s at school tomorrow, strip her room down to bare essentials. Remove everything and anything that she highly values, including favorite clothing and take her door off her room. When she comes home, tell her, calmly but firmly, that this is the way she is going to live until she has demonstrated respect for your authority for one straight month. That’s one entire month of no episodes. When the firestorm begins, just shrug your shoulders and walk away. If my experience serves me well, this will begin to slowly turn things around. It will create a situation where she begins to develop new habits toward you and feel grateful for all the good things you represent in her life. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Family Theatre

Movies Monday

Presented by Alabama News Network

Every Monday in July, bring the family down to Riverfront Park to enjoy a movie at the amphitheater! Grab your blankets and chairs and pick your spot in the grass to enjoy a kid-friendly movie shown on our jumbo screen. Bring your own snacks or purchase from our vendors. Movies begin at dusk. Coolers are permitted but no alcohol. July 7: Frozen; July 14: Coraline; July 21: Monsters University; and July 28: Mirror Mirror.

Summer Movies @ Carmike Prattville

Thursdays at 10 a.m. All movies 2D. Tickets are $4 and include small popcorn and small drink. July 3: Despicable Me 2 July 10: The Nut Job July 17: The LEGO Movie July 24: Rio July 31: Mr. Peabody & Sherman August 7: Rio 2

Millbrook Community Players present Grease July 10-12, 17-19 and 24-26 @ 7:30 p.m. and July 20 @ 2 p.m. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hotrodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. Head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive the high romance of their “Summer Nights” as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such songs as “Greased Lightnin’,” “It’s Raining on Prom Night” and “Alone at the Drive-In Movie.” Visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317 for tickets. The Alabama Shakespeare Festival will conclude its 2013-14 season with Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Broadway blockbuster Mary Poppins July 16-August 3. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins showcases some of the most memorable songs ever sung on the silver screen or stage including “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “Jolly Holiday,” “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!” Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353 for tickets.

Christian Comedian Tim Hawkins

ADT Performs ‘Stars On the Riverfront’

The Alabama Dance Theatre will host its annual Summer Dance Seminar July 21-August 4. Intermediate and Advanced dancers are eligible for this twoweek intensive seminar featuring classical ballet, modern and jazz classes taught by a nationally recognized guest faculty. Faculty include former American Ballet Theatre Principal and current Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Ballet Mistress Marianna Tcherkassky, who was recognized as one of the world’s leading ballerinas, along with the former American Ballet Theatre Soloist Shawn Black and former Alabama Dance Theatre dancer Ashley McQueen. The Summer Dance Seminar culminates with two free performances of “Stars on the Riverfront” that will feature a unique array of classical and contemporary works. Admission is free. Performances are Sunday, August 3, and Monday, August 4, at 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. For more information call (334) 241-2590 or visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com.

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Crafty Crafters Festival in the Park

Ida Belle Young Park Vaughn Road, Montgomery Sunday, July 20 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Contact: LaMeEl Doss at (334)414-1852 or http://www.IamACrafter.com Application Deadline: July 5 Free public admission. Artists, crafters, food vendors, Kids Zone and music.

Prattville First Baptist Church August 24 at 6 p.m. Call (888) 780-1116 or visit www. fbcprattville.org/ for tickets.

Thursdays & Fridays 10 a.m. & 1 p.m., ALL SEATS $1 July 10-11: The Lorax (PG) July 17-18: Madagascar (PG) July 24-25: The Pirates! Band Of Misfits (PG) July 31-August 1: Puss In Boots (PG) Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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Free Guided Tours at Museum of Alabama

Extending through Labor Day weekend, a daily, guided tour is offered to the public at the Museum of Alabama, located at the Alabama Department of Archives and History. This free, hour-long tour begins at 1 p.m. Monday-Saturday. No pre-registration required. Join one of our experienced docents as they guide you through Alabama’s past, highlighting incredible artifacts, images, and documents and answering questions along the way. Open MondaySaturday, 8:30-4:30. Admission is always FREE! For more info, call (334) 242-4364 or visit www.museum.alabama.gov/.

Toulouse Fest 2014

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sponsored by the Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park and the Friends of the Forts/Fort Toulouse Foundation. Visitors are encouraged to spend a day in the park and enjoy the creative offerings of local artists and musicians. Bring chairs, blankets and the whole family! Boy Scout Troop 50 will sell food and drinks throughout the day. Admission is $4 per adult and $2 per child (6-18 years old).

MPAC Events

Martina McBride July 17 at 8 p.m. To date, Martina has sold more than 18 million albums, which have included twenty Top 10 singles and six number-one hits. She has earned more than 15 major music awards, including four wins for “Female Vocalist of the Year” from the Country Music Association and three wins for “Top Female Vocalist” from the Academy of Country Music. Travis Tritt August 16 at 8 p.m. A country music rebel, singer Travis Tritt scored numerous hits in 1990s and 2000s with his bluesy-Southern rock infused sound. In 1989, Tritt released his first album, Country Club, which was followed by several platinum albums and chart-topping singles throughout the 1990s. *This is a Buckmasters-sponsored event and tickets are limited. Tickets are on sale now at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Call 481-5100 or visit www. mpaconline. org.

YMCA’s Bell Road Goodtimes Branch Hosts Parents’ Night Out July 18

2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery. 6-10 p.m. Children ages 6 to 12 years of age will enjoy food, fun, games, swimming, and more. Fees are $15 per child for members and $20 per child for nonmembers. Please bring a swimsuit, towel, and a desire for fun and excitement. For more information, contact Maryann Johnson-Pitts, Teen Coordinator, at (334) 279-8666. Register by July 11.

A VISIT FROM A THERAPY DOG Does your scout troup, camp, library corner or summer school want to learn about Pet Safety and Responsible Pet care?

If so call the

Montgomery Humane Society at 334-409-0622 ext. 204 to schedule a visit from Mary Hughes and Harvey or email maryhughes@montgomeryhumane.com for more details.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite! “Good night, sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite!” When we were young we often heard this rhyme and many of us probably did not know its significance. We protect our family outdoors with insect repellant and inspect everyone from head to toe for possible ticks, but how often do we worry about the “Blood Suckers” inside our homes, vacation destinations or condos? Human bed bugs (scientific name: Cimex Lectularius) are insect parasites that have existed among civilizations for thousands of years. Nearly eradicated in the 1940s with DDT they have made a major comeback with the banning of this insecticide. Since their return in the 1990s they have been found in epidemic numbers in many of our major cities and suburbs. These parasites are visible with the naked eye, being no bigger than apple seeds and possessing oval flat bodies enabling them to hide in the cracks and crevices in the bedding, mattresses, bed frames, headboards and wallpaper. They are excellent hitchhikers and will travel on your clothes in your luggage or in your furniture. Contrary to popular opinion they do not discriminate between rich or poor homes, or clean or dirty environments. Bed bugs are found in many of our luxury hotels! They can sometimes spread through the acquiring of second hand clothing from yard sales or from used furniture picked off the curb or from refurbished items from stores.

Once the bugs are in your home, they hide in the bedding or furniture upholstery where they are dormant during the day, but come out at night to feed on their sleeping victims. Just like mosquitoes and ticks, these parasites produce an anesthetic and anticoagulant. Sleeping victims rarely feel the bites when bed bugs are feeding. Once bitten the spot develops a reddish welt that is very itchy and causes a great deal of irritation. These insect bites usually are present in rows of three or four welts and usually appearing very close together in clusters. While the victim sleeps, the bed bug responds to small movements and pulls out of the skin continuing with another bite next to the first. Sometimes several of these insects may be feeding side by side. Each time the victim sleeps in the infested bed, he will awaken with a new set of bite marks. Although bed bugs carry no life threatening diseases, complications such as secondary bacterial infections at the bite site or potential psychological complications, such as anxiety, may be substantial. Allergic reactions to the bites may result in a more severe hive reaction in certain individuals. Treatment of the bites includes washing the areas with antibacterial soaps to prevent infection, especially if the skin is excoriated from intense scratching, and using a topical hydrocortisone cream or ointment as well as oral medications, such as antihistamines to relieve pruritic symptoms. Always be observant for

possible secondary bacterial infections which sometimes require a topical or oral antibiotic. What is the best way to prevent bed bug bites and infestations? The best prevention is avoidance. After arriving at a hotel or other lodging, inspect your room thoroughly before unpacking. Inspect the bedding for signs of bed bugs: 1) fecal spots (small dark soil-like droppings occurring in patches on the mattress and pads); 2) blood smears on sheets or mattresses; 3) empty molted bed-bug exoskeletons; 4) bug eggs found in mattress fabric seams; 5) and actual bed bugs or their nests which may be harder to find in dark crevices or cracks in the mattress or bed frame. Some experts advise packing clothes in air-tight sealed plastic bags in their luggage. Upon returning home all clothing worn during the trip is removed from the bag and placed in the washer for at least 20 minutes. Bed bugs die at temps 120 degrees F. or greater. If these telltale signs of bed bug infestation are present in your home, especially if you have family members with chronic itchy rashes, it is necessary to seek the advice of a reputable pest exterminator, as well as your physician. Dr. Drennen earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1975 and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine in Loveland, Colorado. He then practiced in Ozark, Alabama before coming to Professional Pediatrics in 1998. He and his wife Rebecca have two sons. The entire family enjoys downhill skiing and beach activities.

Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy

OFFICE (334) 271-5959 NURSE LINE (334) 272-6667

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday Montgomery Parents I July 2014

8:00 am - Evening Appts. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 12

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SHOPPING, DINING

& FAMILY FUN –ALL INSIDE! Every Saturday through August 2 from 5pm–7pm* Family friendly activities sponsored by River Region organizations including:

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JULY 12TH Montgomery Biscuits Night JULY 21ST Pirate and Princess Night with Build A Bear and Chick-fil-A

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JULY 26TH Eastdale Idol: Kid’s Karaoke Contest

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AUGUST 2ND Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

Plus great discounts from retailers

Free Ice Skating for kids 10 and under! Half Off Carousel Rides!

EASTDALE-MALL.COM

Visit for discounts and entertainment schedules. *Families must check in at Customer Service for a wristband to participate.

PEP Parental Escort Policy

Belk, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Sears & over 85 Specialty Shops, including Chuck E. Cheese’s® and the River Region’s only Build-A-Bear Workshop®

Visitors 17 years & younger are required to be escorted by a parent Friday & Saturday evenings after 6pm.

AR12-30024 Montgomery Parents Ad July 2014.indd 1

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6/18/14 8:18 AM

Good News: Montgomery Public Schools Has a New Strategic Plan! OK – a new strategic plan may not sound exciting, but it is. It is the road map, the game plan, the guidebook for Montgomery Public Schools for the next five years. Within the plan are new mission and vision statements, core values and four essential goals. This plan will serve as the foundation of our efforts to ensure the success of our students. While it may seem as exciting as watching paint dry, the process for putting the plan together and the final product are to be celebrated. Hundreds of people were involved in the process. Led by planning experts from Auburn University Montgomery, parents, community members, principals,

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staff, teachers, and business leaders all gave their input. The results include a new mission statement, a new vision statement, a new logo and a revamping of our core values. Our new mission statement: We will engage, educate and inspire our students to succeed in college, career and beyond! I am confident every parent shares that mission! Our new vision statement: MPS is a place where every student develops a love of learning, cultivates intellectual curiosity and dreams of a future full of amazing possibilities. Our teachers, administrators and every employee will work daily to make that vision a reality. Our Core Values emphasize our commitment to achievement, a passion for learning, integrity and accountability, promoting respect for self and others, embracing educational equity, and working to enhance our community partnerships. Each of the four goals focus on students and are supported by dozens of strategies and specific timelines and measurements to ensure accountability. The four goals are: every stu-

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dent graduates college and career ready; every education professional is well-prepared, resource-supported, and effective; every student has access to support systems that maximize opportunities for academic and life success; every school engages parents and community partners in support of student success. While the thought of a strategic plan seems dull, it is an essential and important part of our work. As the old saying goes, if you don’t know where you are going, you won’t know when you have arrived! I invite you to stay informed of our progress from our website, www.mps.k12.al.us. You are also welcome at our board meetings, and you can simply email parentinfo@mps. k12.al.us. We always appreciate your questions and your comments. Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She served as a teacher at Bear Elementary, assistant principal at Forest Avenue Elementary, principal at Garrett Elementary, and as an executive director of elementary schools. Most recently Allen has served as the professional development director for the system. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

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Montgomery County Schools

Catholic’s Talbot Receives Duke TIP Grand Recognition

Miss Black Alabama USA Visits Carver High

Jessica Alexander, Miss Black Alabama USA 2014 winner, visited Carver Senior High School on May 5 and May 8, and presented her platform themed “Wear Your Crown” to sophomores and juniors. She spoke about life skills that may lead to independent and productive adult lives, such as accountability, time management, scholarship search, professionalism and humility. To learn more about the Miss Black Alabama USA Scholarship Pageant, visit www.missblackalabamausa.org. From left are student Thomas Blackmon, Miss Black Alabama Jessica Alexander, student Cornishia Thomas, and head librarian Melanie Cooke.

Eastwood Student Awarded For Perfect Attendance

Eastwood Christian School sixth-grader Elliott Mangrum was given special recognition at his graduation, for perfect attendance all the way from kindergarten through sixth grade. He is shown with Ann Gulley, 6th-grade teacher; Susan Gaines, Lower School Principal; and Linda Joki, 6th-grade teacher. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School proudly announces five middle school students who have earned State Recognition for their ACT scores by the Duke Talent Identification Program, one of which received Grand Recognition (one of only 1,600 nationwide). The Duke University Talent Identification Program (Duke TIP) identifies academically talented seventh-grade students in sixteen states across the Southeast, Midwest and Southwest who have scored at the 95th percentile or above on standardized achievement tests. Montgomery Catholic had 21 middle school students who qualified to participate in the Duke TIP Program last fall with five students whose high scores qualified them for state recognition. Montgomery Catholic students who were honored at the Duke Talent Search State Recognition Ceremony were Annie Bach, Anna Katherine Barranco, Jacob Flowers, Zoe Rutland and Emily Talbot. Talbot traveled to Duke University to receive her Grand Recognition medal on May 19 with her parents Angel and Mike Talbot of Wetumpka. Bach and James Walker qualified for Academy of Summer Studies and Barranco, Flowers, Rutland and Talbot qualified for Center for Summer Studies. From left are Montgomery Catholic students Anna Katherine Barranco, Jacob Flowers, Emily Talbot, Zoe Rutland and Annie Bach.

Macon East Drama Club Presents Steel Magnolias

For its annual spring production, the Macon East Drama Club presented Steel Magnolias on May 13 to a crowded auditorium of parents, students, faculty and friends. Steel Magnolias is a comedy–drama play about the bond among a group of Southern women in northwest Louisiana. Written by Robert Harling, it is based on his experience with his sister’s death. The title suggests the “female characters are as delicate as magnolias but as tough as steel.” The cast of Macon East’s performance did an outstanding job personifying the characters. Cast members were Addison Folmar (Truvy), Kali Holland (Annelle), Kayla Thompson (Clairee), Ashley Howard (Shelby), Mason Estes (M’Lynn), and Emily Riddle (Ouiser). Eighteen high school students currently participate in the drama club. Drama students not in the cast assisted with sound, lights, stage curtains, props, wardrobe and set construction. Drama club sponsor Candice Duffey designed the set which was built by seniors Blake Cohen, Blake Hughes, Austin Skipper, Brandon Peacock, Garrett Berry, Jacob Ware and John-Dylan Hunt. 16

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Success Unlimited Adds New Campus

Success Unlimited Academy proudly announces the purchase of its new K-8 campus on the corner of Vaughn Road and Fairlane Drive. The property formerly housed the Evolve Church. The new campus will create a new elementary/middle school campus just two blocks down the road from the high school campus. This facility has a 300-seat auditorium that will be used for ministry outreaches, music and drama productions, and scholastic competitions. In addition, the new campus has a gymnasium for athletics! This summer the entire building will undergo renovations to provide several additional classrooms, resource rooms, and offices. “We will have a beautiful media/resource room, art room, music room, and dance area. We believe that students need to develop a love for the fine arts in addition to their academic foundation,” said Principal Alred. Athletic Director Jack Moody is also thrilled about the move. “After four years of renting gyms all over town, the Mustangs finally have a home. I couldn’t be happier,” he said. The summer will prove to be industrious and eventful as the faculty prepares for the big move. SUA will open its new lower/middle school campus August 18. Lower/middle school faculty and staff members took a tour of the building before the renovations began. Shown are Lauren Morgan, Cathy Brown, Bonnie Nail, Sara Beck (PTA secretary), Peggy Henderson, Laura Brown, Crystal Williams, Pam Johnson, Gwen Felder, Recenah Clinton and Sue James.

MPS Artists Named National Contest Winners

The Montgomery Council PTA recently recognized Montgomery Public School students who participated in the Reflections Art Program at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. More than 75 submissions from kindergarten to high school students created original works of art in the categories of dance, literature, music composition, photography, film production and visual arts based on the theme “Dream, Believe and Inspire.” Of the 75 local winners, fifteen students were selected as state winners and two as national winners. The two national winners from Montgomery are Shea Straw from Floyd Middle Magnet (Visual Arts) and Tiffany Veith from Booker T. Washington Magnet High School (Visual Arts).

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ACA Seniors Receive Wade Black Norton Awards

AUM Offers Summer Softball Camp July 14-17 Scottie Wilkes, AUM’s assistant softball coach, instructs Future Warhawks on base running during Summer Softball Camp on the AUM softball field. The newly crowned NAIA Softball National Champions teach softball skills to local girls, ages 6 and up, each summer. Campers work on basics like hitting, fielding, base running and game situations. Missed this week’s camp? Another session will be offered July 14-17. Learn more at (334) 244-3520 or www.aumathletics.com. (Photo by Frank C. Williams)

Two Alabama Christian Academy seniors, Lindsey Pouncey and Steven Evans, have been named the 2014 Wade Black Norton award recipients. The annual award is given to a male and female ACA senior based on nominations by the ACA staff and voted on by the family of Wade Black Norton in his memory. The Norton family chooses the recipients based on these guidelines: personal integrity and Christian values, as well as athletic leadership and academic achievement. Both Pouncey and Evans are multi-sport athletes and leaders in their classes, churches and community. The family of Wade Norton proudly presents awards to the 2014 recipients in honor of their son. From left are Dean Norton, Jane Norton Sewell, Becky Norton, Lindsey Pouncey, Steven Evans and Ted Norton.

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STJ Graduates Class of 2014

Commencement exercises for Saint James School’s Class of 2014 were held on May 19 in the school gymnasium. All 87 of the graduates will attend colleges and universities across Alabama and throughout the nation in the fall, with the help of more than $6.8 million in merit-based scholarships. Alabama State Treasurer Young Boozer was the commencement speaker for the occasion. A former member of the Saint James Board of Directors, Boozer congratulated the graduates, encouraging them to continue to work hard for success, and to find ways to stay inspired throughout their lives. The Saint James Senior Class of 2014 includes a National Merit Scholarship Finalist, a National Achievement Finalist, seven College Board Advanced Placement Scholars, one of two Alabama delegates to the U.S. Senate Youth Program, two U.S. Army All-American Marching Band members, two Individual State Forensics Champions, a National Scholastic Gold Key Award recipient, the DAR’s District Good Citizenship Student, four Regional Scholastic Gold Key Award recipients, one All State Choir member and one All-State Show Choir member, a State Trumbauer Theatre Champion, two All-State High School band members, and an Individual State Wrestling Champion. Saint James School faculty applaud the Class of 2014 after commencement excercises at the school. From left, Brianna Wiggins, Brett Young, Jared Hunter, ElizabethStewart Ippolito, Clayton Allen and Tate Holder lead their 81 classmates out to the school quad after their May 19 graduation.

Covenant Kids Enjoy Dr. Seuss Week

The four-year-old class at Covenant Kids celebrated Dr. Seuss Week. The students had so much fun reading many of Dr. Seuss’s books and doing art projects pertaining to him. They especially enjoyed making and painting their own silly hats. It was a terrific week for the children! Send Your School News to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.

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Catholic Middle School Donates Generously to COPE

ECA Student Wins At State Art Show

Kaylee Carter recently represented Evangel Christian Academy at the AISA State Art Show competition in the Kindergarten and First Grade Water Base Division. After winning first place in the AISA District 5 competition, Carter went on to represent her school and district at the AISA State Art Show. Her entry won second place in the entire state.

Middle School students at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School spent Lent collecting donations for COPE. COPE, Counseling Outreach for Pregnancy Emergency, is a non-profit organization in the River Region offering free services for women facing crisis pregnancies which provides women with alternatives to abortion, pregnancy testing, adoption information, and parent education training. Each homeroom was responsible for collecting different items including, diapers, bottles, baby blankets and clothes, wipes, shampoo and baby lotion. The students also played penny wars between homerooms and collected $550 which was used to purchase two car seats, clothing, bottles and additional diapers, lotion and shampoo. Lorie Mullins, Executive Director of COPE, accepted the donations on April 16 and thanked the students for their generosity. Shown are Javon Murdock, Zach Moore, Ellie Talbot, Mrs. Lorie Mullins, Sarah Snowden, Reagan Herbek and Joe Brodgen.

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MA Athletes Named to All-Star Sports Week

Brenna Katz (soccer), Justin Woolfolk (football), Cody Jones (soccer), Josh Thomas (basketball), Jillian Tinglin (volleyball) and Frances Freeman (volleyball) have been selected to participate in the 18th annual Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Associations All-Stars Sports Week. MA baseball coach John Gluschick was selected as one of four coaches to coach the South All-Stars team. In addition, MA volleyball coach Julie Sinclair was selected to participate in the Coaches’ Round Table discussion and will be providing color analysis for the volleyball all-star game. All-Star Sports Week, set for July 21-25, includes in-state all-star games in soccer, volleyball, softball, basketball, football and baseball, in addition to the AHSAA Summer Conference with clinics and professional development sessions for coaches, principals, athletic directors, cheer coaches and contest officials.

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Macon East Students Volunteer at the Zoo

On April 22 and 23, the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society members from Macon East had the opportunity to volunteer at the Montgomery Zoo as part of their annual Earth Day Safari. Designed with school groups in mind, the Earth Day Safari is an educational field trip that includes an endangered species scavenger hunt, Earth Day trivia games, live animal presentations, and specialized zookeeper talks at various animal exhibits. Each year the NHS and NJHS partners with the Montgomery Zoo as part of their ongoing community service projects. 21

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STJ Boys’ & Girls’ Soccer Teams Win ‘Southern Shootout’

MPS Teachers Win Grant For Agriculture Conference Montgomery Public School teachers Dawn Ellis, Lindsey Barker and Tonnetta Smith, pictured here, were among seven MPS teachers who were recently awarded grants by the State Farmers Federation to attend the Agriculture in the Classroom Summer Institute in Birmingham. They, along with teachers Judy Cordell, Terri Leonard, Regina White and Terry Elam, will attend workshops on how to integrate agricultural activities for students in grades K-6 in the classroom, will take field trips to an active farm, and will receive materials and teaching strategies that increase student knowledge of the nutritional and economic importance of food in their daily lives. Only 45 teachers were selected statewide to receive a grant, which is valued at $400.

Lighthouse Preschoolers Enjoy Spring Field Day

Lighthouse Christian Academy’s K4 class played over-under at the annual preschool field day. The children had lots of fun, even with the change of venue due to the weather. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Saint James School Varsity Boys’ and Girls’ Soccer teams both won the 2014 Southern Shootout Elite Flight Soccer Tournaments February 14-15. It was the first time the STJ Girls have won the tourney since the team began participating in 2011. On February 14, the Saint James School Girls bested Benjamin Russell 1-0 in the opening game of the 2014 Southern Shootout Elite Flight Soccer Tournament, with Bea Richardson scoring the lone goal and Katie Bonner preserving the shutout. STJ then tied Bayside 1-1 with Richardson scoring the lone goal again for the second of the young seventh-grader’s career in the closing minutes of the game to tie the score. On Saturday morning, STJ defeated Stanhope Elmore 2-0 with Tessa Evans and Elina Seppala scoring the two goals and Bonner preserving the shutout. Once all the results were recorded from group play, STJ faced crosstown rival, Trinity, in the final for the Elite Flight. STJ defeated Trinity 1-0 after a tough match by both teams with senior Lindsey Engles scoring the lone goal from a wellplaced cross by Seppala. Bonner again preserved the shutout. Saint James scored five goals on the weekend and only gave up the single goal to Bayside in the four matches. STJ’s Varsity Boys’ Soccer also won its respective Southern Shootout Elite Flight Soccer Tournament. On February 14 the STJ Boys defeated Spanish Fort High School in the first match, with a score of 1-0. The match’s lone goal came from Coleman Taylor in the 30th minute of the first half while the STJ defense held strong to keep Spanish Fort scoreless for the match. The Trojan Boys played again that evening, defeating (4-2) Sylacauga High School in their second match. Justin Peifer was named the Saint James Man of the Match. Game 3, played in Daphne the next day, resulted in a 2-2 tie against Robertsdale High School. The game was played in Daphne. Ben Olree scored first for Saint James in the ninth minute which would end up being the only score of the half. Robertsdale scored the next two goals in the 18th and 22nd minutes of the second half. Chase Woodard was named the Saint James Man of the Match. At 4 p.m. the same day, the Trojan Boys sealed their winning status by defeating UMS Wright, the third-ranked team in the state, by a score of 2-0. The Saint James defense again stepped up and kept UMS Wright scoreless for the match. Saint James had eleven shots with eight on goal and two corner kicks. Both Michael Murphree and Jakob Erickson were named the Saint James Men of the Match. 22

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Carr Middle School SGA Donates to Computer Lab

Carr Middle School’s Student Government Association recently donated $3,000 to the school for its new computer lab. Students at the International Baccalaureate Program School have committed countless hours to service projects and fundraisers to provide additional technology that supports the school’s international focus. Here, Principal John Johnston congratulates students on their successful efforts by presenting the SGA a plaque thanking them for their efforts.

Trinity Students Attend College Programs This Summer

Several Trinity students will make the most of their free time this summer by taking college courses at several universities across the country and abroad. Wallace Bryan (rising freshman) will attend Boston University studying molecular biology and genetics, Sam Bishop (rising junior) will attend a Medical Institute Program at Georgetown University, Betsy Byrne (rising junior) will attend the University of St. Andrews, Scotland for one month participating in a Scottish Studies program, Cassie Felder (rising senior) will attend Girls State at the University of Alabama, Stuart Newsome (rising senior) will attend Boys State at the University of Alabama and the Montgomery Camp MD for one week, Michael Sellers (rising senior) will take six hours of college credit at Northeastern University for one month, Sydney Snowden will attend the “People to People Leadership in Action Summit” at Yale University for one week and Emily Stone (rising senior) will attend the Furman University Summer Scholars Program for one week. From left are Emily Stone, Sam Bishop, Betsy Byrne, Michael Sellers, Sydney Snowden, Wallace Bryan and Stuart Newsome. Cassie Felder is not pictured. 23

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Forest Avenue FourthGraders Place Top Ten for History Books

Forest Avenue Academic Magnet fourthgraders work all year studying Alabama history and working on their Alabama history books. Recently, the top ten winners in the fourth grade were announced. Back row from left are Colton Jones, Oliver Stephens, Shaelyn Byrd, Kate Rees and Emily Elizabeth Morgan; and front row: Saniyah Braxter, Reid Roberts, Gabby Nazareno, Tucker Portis and Borden Lash.

Success Unlimited Adds Visual Arts Program

Success Unlimited Academy has enjoyed continuous growth through the years. Currently, we offer other fine arts electives, but saw a need to expand due to the discovery of many talented artists in our student body. Maria Freedman is SUAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art teacher. She taught previously at Taylor Road Academy and Three Rivers Academy. This spring, Freedman had 13 students from SUA display award-winning pieces at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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Carver High Celebrates National Poetry Month

To celebrate National Poetry Month held every April, Carver High School students in Dr. Brown’s English 9 class produced their first poetry chapbook with the theme “Finding our Voices, Composing our Words, and Sharing our Thoughts.” Each student had a page of his or her own in the 52-page chapbook highlighting one’s compositions, such as haiku, cinquain and diamante poems on any topic, ranging from nature, animals and friendship. Students autographed each other’s copy as a memento. Front row from left are Tymira Poole, Kyesha Brown, DMaia Cooper and Krystal Myrick; and back row, Alexis Harvey, Kendall Edwards, Dominique Hurst, Ronderrius Heigler, Alexus Lykes, Aaron Pickett, Omari Clay, Malcome Water, Nakia Peterson, Anthony Swinning, Tavius Wright, Dezi Arrington, Roderick Robinson and Dr. Brown.

Macon East Celebrates Cinco de Mayo with Fiesta

To celebrate Cinco de Mayo, the lower and upper school Spanish students from Macon East Academy held a fiesta with the help of Spanish teachers Shannon Owings and Amanda Baubles. The lower school students enjoyed a Mexican feast catered by Cuco’s and served by the upper school waiters and waitresses. Following lunch, everyone participated in a variety of games and activities centered on Spanish culture. The lower school students were also entertained by a traditional Spanish dance performed by the upper school Spanish students. The fiesta was a great time for the students to practice their foreign language skills.

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Evangel’s Sixth-Grade Class Graduates

ACA Sophomores Serve As HOBY Ambassadors

Alabama Christian Academy sophomores Caroline Rives and Devin Gilliam were chosen as HOBY ambassadors based on their demonstration of leadership and service at ACA and within the community. Both Rives and Gilliam were chosen from nearly 100 ACA juniors to participate in the threeday HOBY Leadership forum at Troy University. Each high school across the state sent students to the conference to develop continued leadership and service skills and to learn from other young leaders.

Evangel Christian Academy’s Sixth Grade Class was promoted to junior high in a special ceremony on May 22. The sixth-grade class recited Bible verses and sang dedication songs to parents and previous elementary teachers. The students honored their parents with personalized gifts and a special video presentation. The valedictorian, Sherlenthia Brazzley, and the salutatorian, Micah Brown, each gave speeches marking this milestone in the students’ lives. At the end of the ceremony each student received a “Promotion to Junior High” certificate. Family and friends joined the students for a reception. Following tradition, the students were whisked away by a limousine at the end of the day.

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Catholic’s Varsity Softball Team Advances to State Tournament

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Varsity Softball team went to the Regional Softball Tournament in Gulf Shores May 9 -10 and came home as 3A South Region Champs. The Lady Knights faced Cottage Hill Christian (Mobile) on Friday taking their first win, 6-0 in the double elimination tournament. The second game vs. Slocomb was played on Friday and ended in a 4-3 victory for the Knights. Montgomery Catholic went into Saturday play on top and took the win from Geneva 3-2 sweeping the tournament. The Montgomery Catholic Knights (2511) headed to the State Tournament for the second straight year at Lagoon Park in Montgomery May 15-17. They faced Northside from Northport on May 15. The Lady Knights are pictured after sweeping the AHSAA 3A Regional Tournament in Gulf Shores. The Montgomery Catholic Varsity Softball team is coached by Head Coach Britt Taylor and assistant coaches Abby Beesley and Michael Walden. Team members are Agnes Armstrong, Emily Barranco, Carrie Belsterling, Jessie Clark, Ali Harper, Sydney O’Connor, Emily Rayborn, Ansley Taylor, Hadley Taylor, Aleigha Walden and Kirstin Wood.

STJ Tri-M Music Honorary Inducts New Members

The Saint James School chapter of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, a high school music honorary that is a program of the National Association for Music Education, inducted 17 new members on April 25. The honor society is designed to recognize students for their academic and musical achievements and to provide leadership and service opportunities to young musicians. There are approximately 6,200 participating international chapters. Saint James School chapter officers are President Zach Taylor, Vice President Alexander Chung, Secretary Joe Taylor, Treasurer Charles Painter, and Historian Clayton Allen. Chapter advisors are Lis Donaldson and Susan Smith.

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Macon East Sophomores Participate in HOBY

Macon East Academy sophomores Lexi Brantley and Emily Kyser were chosen to represent their school at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference at Troy University the weekend of May 30- June 1. Founded in 1958, HOBY’s mission is to inspire and develop our global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service and innovation. Motion picture and television star Hugh O’Brian was a philanthropist who used his popularity to motivate others and reinvest in today’s young people. HOBY programs are conducted annually throughout the United States, serving local and international high school students providing them with unique leadership training, service-learning, and motivationbuilding experiences. The core values of the HOBY program are volunteerism, integrity, excellence, diversity, and community partnership. Brantley and Kyser were selected based on their current leadership on and off campus, and plan to implement the skills learned at the HOBY weekend event to continue to grow as leaders and role models at Macon East. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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Montgomery Academy Celebrates Class of 2014

The Class of 2014 of The Montgomery Academy claims numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 62 students, this senior class celebrates the recognition of two students being named National Merit Finalists, four students being named National Commended Students, and 18 AP Scholars by the College Board. Since joining the Upper School in the Fall of 2010, members of this class have played key roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing 15 State Championships, while at the same time contributing to the Visual and Performing Arts with local, state, and national recognition including consistent national prominence of the Choral Program as one of the top Choral Programs in the country along with the Speech & Debate program’s recognition by the National Speech & Debate Association as being in the top 1% in the nation. With acceptances to 72 different institutions of higher learning, 50 students in the senior class have been offered more than $5.9 million in merit-based scholarship money, an amount which does not include financial aid or needbased scholarships.

STJ Grands are Great!

Approximately 700 grandparents came to Saint James School on April 25 to celebrate the elementary school’s Grandparents Day, a day set aside for honoring the grands for their love, dedication and contributions to their favorite young relatives. Here, third-grader Taylor Potts, daughter of Marion and Leigh Ann Potts, sits proudly, flanked by both sets of adoring grandparents.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. It’s FREE!

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Catholic Seniors Commit to Play at the Next Level

STJ Seniors Pass the Torch to Class of 2026

More than 1,000 students, teachers and parents gathered around the quadrangle on May 6 to participate in a Saint James tradition that honors both the oldest and youngest K5-12 students at the school. Dressed in their graduation caps and gowns, the seniors and their K5 kindergarten buddies were announced to onlookers as they began a formal walk, hand-in-hand, around the school’s quadrangle. Parents, teachers and the student body roared with cheers and applause as the high school and kindergarten seniors processed by their families and friends. It was the last formal walk around the quad for the Class of 2014, and the first walk for the Class of 2026. As they were introduced, each senior was presented with a long-stemmed yellow rose. Following their formal walk, the graduating seniors used their roses to form an Honor Arch for the K5 students to walk under, honoring the soon-to-be first graders as they begin their exciting future years at Saint James School. After the formal events of Senior Walk, the twelfth-graders released blue and gold balloons into the air, symbolizing the end of their K-12 career. Above, kindergartners Warren Walker Skelley, Eli Sommer and Chloe Taylor delight in walking under the Honor Arch created by the 2014 Senior Class for the soon-to-be first graders – during the school’s traditional Senior Walk on May 6. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School held signing ceremonies for several student-athletes inside the library on the high school campus recently. The Knights celebrated the signing of Miles Rice (Point University) on May 7, and John Haynes and Abby Rohde both committed to attend Huntingdon College on May 8. Rice, a 3A area 4 all-tournament selection, will play college basketball at Point University in West Point, Georgia. Rice led the team in rebounds per game and was second on the team in points scored per game and blocked shots. He was also selected MVP for the LAMP basketball team his sophomore season. Rice received the Coaches award at Montgomery Catholic this past season. He is the son of Arketa and James Rice of Montgomery. Haynes will join the Huntingdon College wrestling team next year. He has received the ALFA Corporate Partnership Grant for his academic achievements. He has attended MCPS for four years, played football for four years and baseball for one year, wrestled for three years, and was a member of the track & field team for four years. He has been the captain of the football and wrestling team and received the MCPS Coaches award in wrestling. Haynes is the son of Leigh and Chris Haynes of Montgomery. Rohde will join the Huntingdon College volleyball team next year. She received the President A.A. Lipscomb Academic Scholarship. Rohde has attended MCPS since kindergarten. She has played volleyball since the fifth grade, including three years on the Knights varsity volleyball team. Rohde received the Coaches award, she was named MVP for the Montgomery Catholic Knights and she was a member of the Junior Olympics team. She is the daughter of Brenda and Chuck Rohde. Haynes, Rice and Rohde join Anthony Thomas (basketball, Faulkner State University) Sydney O’Connor (softball, University of Mobile), James Sherman (football, Texas State) and Kirstin Wood (softball, Martin Methodist College) who will continue their athletic careers in the fall at the college level. Miles Rice, shown at top with his parents Arketa and James Rice of Montgomery, celebrates his commitment to play basketball for Point University in Georgia. John Haynes and Abby Rohde, bottom, will both attend Huntingdon in the fall. Haynes will join the wrestling team and Rohde will join the volleyball team.

Hooper’s Cheerleaders Enjoy Beach Retreat

From left are Laura Gravely, Madeline Maxwell, Ashley Jones, Captain Abby Watts, Captain Morgan Maxwell, Jessika Wallace, Charity Bowden and Captain Kamy Cobb. 30

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MPS Names New Chief Academic Officer

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Evangel’s Senior Class Graduates

Evangel Christian Academy’s graduation ceremony was held on May 23. 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 Allison Berg and the salutatorian was Angelica White. During the ceremony a video presentation was shown highlighting each graduate’s life. After the video, the graduates presented roses to their parents and then a reception was held in the students’ honor.

Montgomery Public Schools’ new curriculum leader reported to work on March 24. At its March 11 meeting, the board approved Thomasville City Schools Curriculum Director Dr. Christopher Blair as its new Chief Academic Officer. MPS Superintendent Margaret Allen says Blair’s appointment is an important step in the district’s efforts to move instructional practices forward. “Dr. Blair is a proven leader with a track record of using data to analyze and improve student learning, and devising and implementing programs that support curriculum and instruction, technology and professional development,” said Allen. “I’m confident that his knowledge and experience will be a great asset to our district.” Blair has more than 14 years of service to education. Prior to coming to MPS, Blair was a curriculum director with Thomasville City Schools, where he was responsible for planning and implementing programs for the supported curriculum and instruction, leadership development and evaluation, accountability and student assessment, career and technical education, school improvement, counseling and guidance, accreditation and technology. He also serves on the Council of Leaders in Alabama Schools. He is a member of the Association for Supervision & Curriculum Development, National Association of Federal Education Program Administrators, and is a graduate of the University of Alabama Superintendents’ Academy. “I am enthusiastic and eager to join Montgomery Public Schools,” Blair said. “MPS students deserve the very best educational and support services possible, and I look forward to teaming with the citizens of Montgomery, the MPS school board, Superintendent Allen, school administrators and staff to prepare every MPS student for college and career upon graduation.” Blair holds a bachelor’s in communication/English from the University of Alabama Birmingham, a master’s in English education and a master’s in educational administration from Alabama State University. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

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STJ Students Qualify for Duke TIP Recognition Seven Saint James seventh-graders have been recognized by the Duke University Talent Identification Program (TIP), for their excellent academic performance on the ACT and SAT, both universally accepted college entrance exams. Duke Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TIP identifies gifted students and provides resources to nurture the development of these exceptionally bright youngsters. Twenty-eight Saint James seventh-graders participated in the Duke TIP program in the 2013-14 academic year. STJ seventh-grader Will Moore qualified for Grand Recognition and was honored in a ceremony hosted at Duke University on May 19, with other Grand honorees from across the country. These students scored at or better than 90 percent of all high school juniors and seniors, nationwide, who took the college entrance exams. Each student recognized at the event, which is likened to a graduation ceremony, received a commemorative medal. A keynote speaker addressed the students and honorees were called on stage to receive their special medal.

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Moore has also qualified to study at the Center for Summer Studies this summer as a result of his excellent TIP scores. Students in this program represent the highestscoring students in Duke TIPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seventhgrade Talent Search, and the courses offered to them at the Center are some of the most challenging and rigorous available to academically gifted students in the country. The Center for Summer Studies programs, held at Davidson College, Wake Forrest University and Trinity University, offer a diverse array of subject matter across disciplines. Seven STJ students qualified for State Recognition through the TIP program and were honored in a ceremony at the University of Alabama on May 5. STJ students who met the state level qualifying score criteria are: Salena Bulls, Kylie Eng, Cleophus

Gaines III, Travis Hamilton, Lizzy Headley, Will Moore and Bea Richardson. Bulls, Eng, Gaines, Hamilton, Headley and Richardson were among the top five percent of the academically talented students who were tested in Duke TIP and have been invited to participate in the Academy of Summer Studies. Students in this program experience challenging coursework and build friendships with other academically gifted peers. The Academy for Summer Studies at Appalachian State University, The University of Kansas, and Austin College cover a broad spectrum of topics developed specifically to take advantage of special facilities and expertise at each site. Front from left are Cleophus Gaines III, Bea Richardson and Kylie Eng; back, Will Moore, Selena Bulls, Lizzy Headley and Travis Hamilton.

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ECA Welcomes New Principal

Evangel Christian Academy welcomes Ceil Sikes as the school’s new principal. Sikes has worked in education for 39 years. She has served as an administrator in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) for the past 11 years. She previously served as headmaster of Pike Liberal Arts before coming to ECA. Before serving as an administrator, she taught for 28 years in the Montgomery Public School System. She also served as “Teacher in Residence” at Auburn University at Montgomery for two years. Sikes has received several awards and designations related to education. She was chosen as “Woman of the Year” for the State of Alabama in the field of education by the National Association of Professional Women. She was also the President of the AISA Headmaster’s Association for three years. She has served on the AISA State Board of Directors for three years and is currently the vice president. Sikes has also served on the AISA Athletic Committee. Sikes is married to Danny Sikes, part owner of Sikes and Kohn’s Country Mall. She has two children, Lee and Lindsay. She has a daughter-in-law named Pamela and a beautiful granddaughter named LesLee. She attends First Baptist Church in Troy. Sikes said her emphasis as principal will be to work toward academic excellence and stronger student achievement. She is excited about working together with the faculty, parents and staff. She looks forward to meeting her new school family in August.

AUM Offers Summer Enrichment Camp in July

Looking to stimulate your child’s learning this summer? Auburn Montgomery’s Department of Early Childhood, Elementary and Reading Education is offering a two-week Summer Enrichment Camp July 14-25, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., in the School of Education Building on campus. Open to children ages 5-12, the program will offer exciting activities in literacy, mathematics and science. Your child must have attended one year of kindergarten to participate in this program. Attendance is expected for the entire two weeks and limited to 75 children. Tuition is $125 for all instruction and materials. A $15 discount is available to AUM students and employees. To register, call (334) 244-3415 or (334) 244-3399.

ACA Classes Host Moms and Muffins

The Alabama Christian Academy K4 classes of Mrs. Clifton and Mrs. Torode recently celebrated Mother’s Day by honoring their moms with a “Moms and Muffins” event. The students had the opportunity to serve their moms muffins and fruit. The students also sang several songs for all in attendance. Each mom was surprised to receive personalized canvases of painted flowers using each student’s handprints and fingerprints for the flowers. The annual Moms and Muffins event has become a tradition cherished by the K4 students and their moms. K4 student Marley Kachelman proudly shows off her gift for her mom before the event.

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Macon East K3 Students Enjoy Indoor Snowballs

To celebrate the cold, wintry days of January, Mrs. Debbie Mills’s K3 class at Macon East Academy had an indoor snowball fight. The class divided into two teams and lined up to face off with their cotton ball “snow.” The boys and girls had so much fun with the pretend snowball fight and stayed warm and dry at the same time. Mrs. Mills’s class also enjoyed other snowman and winter activities during the month.

Lighthouse Preschoolers Enjoy Wacky Tacky Day

Mrs. Margaret’s K4 class at Lighthouse Christian Academy enjoyed “Wacky Tacky Day.” The class discussed opposites and backwards, putting what they have learned into action.

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Catholic Names Veres as Athletic Director

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School named Daniel Veres as the school’s new athletic director effective June 2. Veres will oversee all athletic programs at Montgomery Catholic after working for nine years with Auburn Montgomery’s University Outreach. An alumnus of the Montgomery Catholic class of 1993, Veres played baseball, basketball and golf for the Knights and was a Jimmy Hitchcock nominee. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Spring Hill College where he played baseball. Veres has served as an assistant baseball coach for two seasons at Spring Hill College, and as an assistant to the Faulkner University men’s golf team. He and his wife, Jennifer, are parishioners at Holy Spirit Catholic Church and have two children, Evie and John Henry. “I am looking forward to coming back to my alma mater as the new athletic director,” said Veres. “There was a strong pull for me to return to Montgomery Catholic to support the community that helped shape my athletic career. We have challenges to overcome, but we are building a great foundation for successful programs at all levels. I want our athletic program to make a positive impact on our students. It takes hard work and discipline to achieve your goals, not just in athletics, but in life. Our success will be in having athletes that turn out to be responsible, accountable young adults who will be prepared and successful in college and beyond.”

Follow the Saint James Yellow Brick Road! Saint James School’s Charles Painter (Scarecrow) gave Catherine Bradwell (Dorothy) directions on how to reach the Emerald City during the school’s lively production of The Wizard of Oz, which ran for four public performances in April.

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Montgomery County Schools

Academy Third-Grade WordMasters Take First Place

Catholic Honors Students With Academic Awards

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored its top high school students at the annual Academic Awards Ceremony held in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center May 5. Many honors were bestowed, including the most outstanding student in each subject area. The senior members of the Loretto chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) were recognized during the ceremony, as well as the Key Club members who gave more than 50 hours of their time during this school year. The Kiwanis Club recognized Montgomery Catholic’s Key Cub for being the most active club of any high school in the Montgomery Area. Students with the highest grade-point average for each high school grade level were also recognized. The most outstanding senior and valedictorian for the class of 2014 is Madeleine O’Mara with a 4.35 GPA. Honor roll certificates for both the A and A/B honor rolls were given to those students who attained A or A/B honor roll throughout the school year for each grade level. The evening culminated with two of the highest awards given at Montgomery Catholic: Leader of the Year and the Ideal Graduate. High school Principal Chad Barwick bestowed the Montgomery Catholic Leader of the Year award to Alex Castanza, above, who has served in numerous leadership positions in school, his parish and in the community. President Anne Ceasar presented the Montgomery Catholic Ideal Graduate Award to James Sherman, below. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Teams representing The Montgomery Academy Lower School recently earned Highest Honors in the 2013-14 WordMasters Challenge—a national vocabulary competition involving nearly 150,000 students annually. Third-graders placed first nationally out of 332 third-grade teams in the overall competition with a cumulative score of 563 points out of a possible 600 and the fourth-grade team finished the overall competition in fifth place in its division with a cumulative score of 542 points. Third-grader Sujung Kim achieved individual Highest Honors with a cumulative score of 57 points over the three meets. Other students with high cumulative scores are, bottom row from left, Isabella Hill, Leah Simms, Sujung Kim, Elizabeth Ray, Lily Shores and Grant Casey; top row, Katherine Sinco, Aiden Bowman, George Jennings, Rosa Sabel, Jane Abbie Alford and Campbell Long. The thirdgrade team also scored an impressive 200 points out of a possible 200 in the last of three meets this year, placing first in the nation. Thirdgraders earning perfect scores in the last meet are Greer Armstrong, Josie Aronov, Aiden Bowman, Isabella Hill, George Jennings, Sujung Kim, Campbell Long, Elena Mannion, Elizabeth Ray, Bray Renfroe, Rosa Sabel, Leah Simms, Katherine Sinco and Laura Stanton Strickler. Nationally, only 164 third-graders achieved this result. Other students at the Lower School who achieved outstanding results in the last meet of the year include third-graders Jane Abbie Alford, Coleman Bell, Allie Frances Brazil, Katie Brown, Breland Burnham, Grant Casey, Bae Corley, Fionah Desautels, Cade Edwards, Bobby Eskridge, McRae Foshee, Win Grubb, Charlie Hill, Suyeon Kim, Anne Frances Little, Tom Main, Jake Millage, Claire Moore, Lucas Rizzo, Parker Shegon, Kareena Singh, Weldon Sorrell and Carson Springer. The third-grade students were coached in preparation for the WordMasters Challenge by Marie Williams and the fourth-grade team was coached by Bobbie Woodard. The WordMasters Challenge is an exercise in critical thinking that first encourages students to become familiar with a set of interesting new words (considerably harder than grade level), and then challenges them to use those words to complete analogies expressing various kinds of logical relationships. Working to solve the analogies helps students learn to think both analytically and metaphorically. Although most vocabulary enrichment and analogy-solving programs are designed for use by high school students, WordMasters Challenge materials have been specifically created for younger students in grades three through eight. They are particularly well suited for children who are motivated by the challenge of learning new words and enjoy the logical puzzles posed by analogies. The WordMasters Challenge program is administered by a company based in Indianapolis, Indiana, which is dedicated to inspiring high achievement in American schools. Further information is available at the company’s website: http://www.wordmasterschallenge.com. 36

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Macon East Holds Upper School Honors Day On May 15, Macon East Academy held its annual upper school Honors Day Program recognizing seventh- through twelfth-grade students for their outstanding achievements throughout the 2013-2014 school year. Special recognition was given to the Class of 2014, and many graduates received college scholarships presented by the college and university representatives on campus for the event. The following is a list of the Macon East Upper School Honors Day award recipients: Junior High History Award-Tyler Watson; Senior High History Award-Mary Kaylin Veach; Junior High Science Award-Alex Wyrosdick; Senior High Science Award-Mary Kaylin Veach; Junior High Mathematics AwardsDawn Johnson, Madisyn Kennedy (Pre-Algebra), Tyler Watson (Algebra I), Alex Wyrosdick (Geometry); Senior High Mathematics AwardsJesi Garrett (Algebra II), Ashley Burrow (Algebra III), Jessica Nam (Pre-Calculus), Mary Kaylin Veach (Calculus); Junior High English Award-Alex Wyrosdick; Senior High English Award-Mary Kaylin Veach; Creative Writing Award-Tatym Harmon; Speech Award-Kayla Exford; Drama AwardEmily Riddle and Addison Folmar; Junior High Art Award-Alex Wyrosdick; Senior High Art Award-Jessica Gulsby; Spanish Award-Jessica Nam (Spanish I & II); Spanish Overachiever Award-Mary Kaylin

Veach (Spanish I, II, & III); AISA Spelling Bee-Madisyn Kennedy and Ben Main; AISA Drama Competition Awards-Mason Estes (3rd in musical drama), Addison Folmar & Austin Skipper (2nd in duet acting), Emily Riddle, Addison Folmar, Kali Holland, Mason Estes, Ashley Howard & Kayla Thompson (ensemble acting 2nd in regional and

3rd in state), AISA All-State Drama CastEmily Riddle, Addison Folmar, & Mason Estes; AISA Creative Writing Competition Award-Evan Tinch; AISA Middle School Mathematics Competition Team-Jaycee Cook-McCollum, Claire Donaldson, Isabella Fagan, Jake Gracey, Brian Major, Travis Moody, Bryson O’Malley, Thomas Rutland, & Tyler Watson; AISA High School Mathematics Competition Team-Mary Kaylin Veach, Jacob Faulkner, Morgan Walters, Anna Marie Pugh, Mason Estes, Daniel Lee

& Jae Park; Lance & Shield Award-Anna Marie Pugh; Alabama Lions High School Leadership Forum-Anna Marie Pugh & Mary Kaylin Veach; Mandy Williams Christian Leadership Award-Mary Kaylin Veach; Prudential Spirit of Community Award-Anna Marie Pugh; Dixie Electric Cooperative Youth Tour-Mari-Beth Baker; Duke Talent Identification Program 7th grade Honorees-Anna Grace Tompkins, Nate Center, Bailey Estes, Isabella Fagan, Cole Faucheux, Brian Major; DAR Good Citizen Award-Mary Kaylin Veach; Bridge Builders Alabama Leadership Program- Emily Kyser; Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Award-Lexi Brantley & Emily Kyser; Alabama Boys & Girls State-Hunter Gregg & Mari-Beth Baker; National Honor Society Leadership AwardMary Kaylin Veach; Jimmy Hitchcock Nominees-Mary Kaylin Veach, Sami Nesbitt & Rai Pritchett; Wendy’s High School Heisman Athletic & Academic Award-Mary Kaylin Veach; AISA Student Athlete Award-Mary Kaylin Veach, Anna Marie Pugh, Daniel Lee; Jack Cox Memorial Service Award-Anna Marie Pugh; SGA Leadership Award-Mari-Beth Baker; Zeta Spence Memorial Award-Anna Marie Pugh; Hartley Carter Memorial Soccer Award-Mason Estes, Daniel Lee; Hartley Rebecca Carter Math & Soccer Scholarship Award-Sami Nesbitt; and Hilda Story Teacher of the Year Award-Peter Baubles.

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Catholic Varsity Sports Banquet Held in Downtown Montgomery

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored its varsity athletes for the 2013-2014 year at the annual Varsity Athletic Banquet held at the RSA Activity Center May 7. Montgomery Catholic fields 17 varsity team sports throughout the year. High School Principal Chad Barwick recognized the four nominees for the Jimmy Hitchcock Award. They were Alex Castanza, Saraelizabeth Parker, James Sherman and Kirstin Wood. Also recognized were Montgomery Catholic’s ninth-grade nominees Audrey Kim, James Sadie, Lauren Smith and Zachary Van Alst. Montgomery Catholic awarded two scholarships for school tuition. The first was the Coach Ralph Furlong Scholarship, established in 1998. Initiated by a member of his 1946 football team, the intent of this scholarship is to honor one of Catholic’s greatest coaches, whose record of 24 straight wins from 1947-1949 remains a school record. The Furlong scholarship is a partial tuition scholarship of $1,000, given to a high school student who demonstrates a commitment to both extra-curriculars and his or her studies. The 2014 recipient of the Coach Ralph Furlong Scholarship was freshman Emily Rayborn. The second scholarship given was the Caitlyn Marianne Wiggins ‘08 Memorial Scholarship, established in December 2013. A $3,500 partial tuition scholarship awarded annually in Wiggins’s honor, a 2008 MCPS graduate and varsity athlete who was killed in an automobile accident in 2013. The scholarship is given for one school year to a female student athlete at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s (MCPS) High School Campus. Wiggins’s family and friends endowed this scholarship to give another child the opportunity to achieve the type of success that she enjoyed in life. Iyana Tate was the first Montgomery Catholic student to receive the Caitlyn Marianne Wiggins ‘08 Memorial Scholarship presented by her family. The top athletes from each sport are nominated for the Knights of the Round Table Award, which recognizes the top male and female athlete of the year. These were Kyle Berher and Kirstin Wood. Above are Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Knights of the Round Table Athletes of the Year Kirstin Wood and Kyle Berher. (Photo by The Studio @ EastChase) Iyana Tate was the first Montgomery Catholic student to receive the Caitlyn Marianne Wiggins ‘08 Memorial Scholarship presented by Caitlyn’s family: uncle James Hause ‘02; grandfather William Hause; parents Jim and Lisa Wiggins; and aunt Andrea Hause Durbin ‘98. Photo by The Studio @ EastChase. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Evangel’s Kindergartners Graduate

The K5 class at Evangel Christian Academy concluded the year with a program and graduation ceremony. 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. 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. After awards were presented to the students, the guests were invited to a reception honoring ECA’s youngest graduates.

STJ Students Chosen for Honor Bands

Saint James band members from both middle and high school auditioned for All District and All State Bands in January, with 13 students chosen to participate in the prestigious honor bands. To be selected for All State Band, students had to place in the upper chairs at All District. High School All State Band consists of three Bands – Red, White and Blue. Students selected for the All District Band met February 2122 at Central High School in Phenix City. Those selected for All State Band met in Huntsville April 10-12 at the Von Braun Center. STJ Middle School student Jack Cater was selected as First Chair for the All District Band, as well as for the Middle School All State Band. Middle schoolers Subin Youn (5th Chair), Nathan Ashner (6th Chair) and Declan Fitzpatrick (7th Chair) were chosen for the All District Band. Saint James High School students receiving All State and All District band honors were: Will Richardson, 1st Chair All District and Unassigned All State Band; Price Everett, 2nd Chair All District and White All State Band; Tyler Bailey, 2nd Chair All District Band and Unassigned All State Band; Alexander Chung, 5th Chair All District Band and Blue All State Band; and Kayla Carr, 10th Chair All District Band and Blue All State Band. Mikal Webb, Faulkner Cunningham, Clayton Allen and Henry Olree were named to the High School All District Band. Front row from left are Jack Cater, Nathan Ashner, Kayla Carr and Faulkner Cunningham; second row: Clayton Allen, Henry Olree, Tyler Bailey and Subin Youn; and back row: Alexander Chung, Mikal Webb, Declan Fitzpatrick and Will Richardson. Not pictured: Price Everett. 38

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I am reminded of what a blessing it is to be a part of such an outstanding community and school system like Autauga County. When we, as a community, focus on our childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education, we are focusing on our countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future! The future of Autauga County continues to brighten! A wonderful new opportunity has opened up for us. Pre-K is now a reality for our system! Autauga County Schools was awarded a grant for two Pre-K classrooms. The two classes will be housed at Pine Level Elementary School (PLES). Pre-K programs provide students with the opportunity to jump start their educational experience. My goal is to increase the Pre-K program throughout the county. Special thanks goes out to PLES Principal Cathy Loftin and Assistant Principal Donna Hoomes. They did a wonderful job writing the grant that brought these two Pre-K classrooms to Autauga County. Without these educators going beyond their regular

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

duties, this Pre-K program in Autauga County would not have happened. Going beyond what is expected is the norm for our system. Our schools always strive for excellence! A school certainly cannot maintain an atmosphere of excellence without strong leadership. I would like to introduce the new principals for the 2014-2015 school year. Long-time Autauga County educator Donna Finch is taking the lead at Marbury High School (MHS). Ms. Finch is coming from Billingsley School where she served as the assistant principal. She is replacing Billy Hollon who is moving to Prattville Primary School (PPS) to take on the top position there. Mr. Hollon is excited about his new challenge after giving MHS twelve outstanding years of service. The new Autaugaville School principal is Lesia Robinson. She brings many years of experience to the table. You can expect great things from the Eagles! Janice Stockman will serve as principal at Prattville Junior High School. She brings central office level administrative experience combined with many years of assistant principal experience from PPS and Prattville High School (PHS) where she lead the Ninth Grade Academy for the last three years. I eagerly anticipate the

results these fine administrators will bring about in our future. I have always maintained that Autauga County Schools has the best educators in our state. We have so many talented and dedicated faculty members. Two of our fine educators, W. D. Martin, teacher at Billingsley School, and Marlin Harris, teacher at PHS, are both published authors. Mr. Martin has written two books to date: Dragonfly Valley and Quest for the Cure. Mr. Harris is the author of Let the Beatitudes Be My Attitude in You. Keeping the citizens of our county in touch with the latest happenings in our schools is very important to me, so the Autauga County School System now has a Facebook page. I want to personally invite each of you to LIKE us on Facebook. You can access us through the Facebook link on our website at www.acboe.net. Share us with your friends and follow all the great activities going on in our schools. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an ator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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PCA Announces Two Service Award Winners Each year, Prattville Christian Academy presents a Barnabas Award to the male and a Tabitha Award to the female student who exemplify the best servant attitude. The certificates read, “For encouragement, service and thoughtfulness toward others.” The 2014 female winner is PCA junior Lauren Crosby, and the male winner is senior Luke DeMarco. The awards are named for New Testament characters known for their service to others. Like Barnabas, which means “Son of Encouragement,” they are encouragers of others, both students and faculty. Like Tabitha, they seek ways to help others in selfless service. This is not about “service hours” done for a Bible class, but the day-to-day encouragement and service, done with no fanfare or credit, that help to make the lives of those around them better. PCA faculty and staff submit nominations, and selections are made by a faculty committee. Each winner is pictured with PCA president Ron Mitchell.

Join us for a celebration of God’s goodness through praise and worship, followed by a life-applicable Biblebased teaching by senior pastor John Schmidt via video. Come casual and enjoy our service that starts at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday at the Jim Wilson YMCA at New Park. Nursery and children’s program provided.

For more information contact our office at (334) 356-3076 or visit our website at centeringlives.com

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A common misconception to many is that summer is one long vacation for school folks! Just one peek at one of the major events going on in our district this summer will certainly dispel that myth. I am thrilled that our district has been chosen as A+ College Ready’s Middle School Pilot Program for teachers grades 7 and 8 in the National Math Science Initiative’s Laying the Foundation (LTF) Program. Laying the Foundation is the pathway for teachers and administrators to encourage the acquisition of critical thinking skills and for building rigorous learning opportunities in the classroom. This training will develop teachers to move away from the limited “sage on the stage approach” (i.e. lectures and worksheets) to a more robust approach which utilizes interactive experiences with generous doses of questions and discovery. The teacher assumes the rewarding role of being a mentor in the child’s educational journey instead of a dispenser of information.

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

The LTF trainings will also provide an avenue for the deep implementation district-wide to meet College and Career Ready Standards. This training will be transformational for students of ALL abilities. As an example of our commitment to this project, every 7th and 8th grade teacher in our school system has been given the opportunity to attend week-long professional development sessions in Montgomery and in Birmingham designed to assist them in creating critical thinking opportunities in their classrooms. A total of 37 teachers from our county will be participating in this intensive professional development. It is important to note that many who are involved in this training are not on contract this summer. They are truly dedicating their time and their talents to the futures of their students. Many of our high school teachers will also be participating in these trainings, as well. Rarely will you find any of our teachers of any grade level who are not taking advantage of every opportunity to hone their practice. Our key instructional leaders, our principals and assistant principals, have been busy since the last school bell rang in reviewing baseline data on the number of students in each middle

school that met college readiness benchmarks in math, science, and English on the 2013 Explore assessment. There have been many powerful conversations among these administrators related to those students who are within three points of meeting Explore college readiness benchmarks. For these students, individual goals of moving to college readiness by the time they take the ACT are already in progress. The pilot will also help inform transition to goal setting using formative (ongoing) and end of course assessments that will replace Explore and PLAN and deepen understanding of the level of achievement that is reasonable to expect. It is so humbling to see the level of energy and enthusiasm displayed by our school personnel as they sacrifice time and energy this summer on behalf of our students. Stay tuned as the transformational results of these summer efforts come to vivid life during our upcoming school year! Jeff Langham is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. Now in his eighth year as the system’s leader, he has a total of 27 years of experience in the field of education. Langham is an active member at Landmark Church in Montgomery. He and his wife, Ginny, a nurse educator, have one daughter, Weldon.

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Elmore County High’s Holley, Smith Win Sewell Awards

Nearly 30 Elmore County students competed for this year’s Joe Sewell Memorial Awards, given each year to deserving male and female seniors who excel in academics, athletics, character, church, community and leadership. When the two winners were announced at the event held at the Wetumpka Civic Center, Elmore County High claimed a clean sweep for the first time in the award’s 10 years of existence. Patty Holley was named the overall girls’ winner and Aaron Smith was named overall boys’ winner. Holley, who has lettered three years in varsity volleyball, is a member of Eclectic United Methodist Church. She shared a Bible verse (Hebrews 12:13) with the ninth-graders in attendance, telling them it inspired her often during her high school years. Smith was a member of the Panthers football, powerlifting and track teams. He is a member of Thelma Baptist Church. The award is named for Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Joe Sewell, born and raised in the Titus community of Elmore County. Sewell is renowned as a man who gave back to his community as often as he could. The award nominees — through their work and service in the community, church, and school — exemplify those traits as well. Sports radio talk show host Doug Amos, who also is assistant athletic director for media relations and marketing at Faulkner University, served as the emcee for the awards, and Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Sheryl E. Gordon of the Alabama Army National Guard was guest speaker. Gordon was the first female general officer in the Alabama Army National Guard. She urged the young men and women to “do the right thing ... even when no one is watching. Because of your activities and your leadership, you’re high-profile,” she said. Other county winners included: Academic Girls - Hayden Willis, Holtville High; Academic Boys - Samuel Britton, Wetumpka High; Athletic Girls - Amber Priester, New Life Christian Academy; Athletic Boys - Braxton Hancock, Tallassee High; Church, Community, & Character Girls - Ashley Roberts, Elmore County High; Church, Community, & Character Boys - Colin Speake, Tallassee High; Leadership Girls - Brooke Schultz, Wetumpka High; and Leadership Boys - Alex Russell, New Life Christian Academy. Smith and Holley are shown with Billie Sewell and Jeff Langham, chair of the Joe Sewell Memorial Award board. (Photo by Chrietzberg Photography)

Eclectic Elementary Rewards AR Performance

Eclectic Elementary awarded students who reached their Accelerated Reader points goal with a 90% or higher average the fourth quarter with an outside party. Almost 200 students in grades 1-4 played with bubbles, chalk and on the playground.

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Airport Road Holds Annual Field Days

For Airport Road Intermediate School’s annual field days, the words “Keep Calm and Play On” were emblazoned on tie-dyed tees (a different color for every class). Coach Julie Morrison coordinated two fun field days for fourth- and third-graders. The fourth-grade field day was a rainy one, and all activities were moved inside. However, the rain stopped the next day and third-graders took to the field for a mile run, a 50-yard dash, a relay, and a tug-of-war. Students and teachers put down towels on the grass and created a “beach” of sorts. Students also competed in the running long jump indoors, since the fields were still too muddy for that. At the end of the day, a ceremony recognized the best athletes and the classrooms with the highest number of points. Whitlock’s class in fourth grade took first place. Winchester’s class in third grade placed first. Cade Rattan is shown with his teacher Virginia Garcia, and several classmates, after he won the mile run.

Got news? Send us your school bits by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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ARIS Students Receive Wings

At Airport Road Intermediate School, the motto is “soaring towards excellence.” This theme is further carried out in the annual “pinning of wings.” Students earned these pins with wings when they scored proficiency in both math and reading in the 2013 Alabama Reading and Math Test+. The students who earned the wings were third-graders when they took the test. This assembly—with a special performance by the ARIS choir—was to motivate third-graders to do well on the upcoming ACT Aspire test, a new assessment for Alabama. There will be another ceremony next year for third-graders who excel in the ACT Aspire test and get to walk across the stage to get their “wings.” Student Madison McElrath displays her “wings” standing next to her father.

Redland Elementary Choir Performs

Redland Elementary’s K-2nd grade choir performed at the PTO end-of-year meeting.

Airport Road Honors Day 2014

Airport Road Intermediate School Principal Marcia Stephens and her crew decorated the gym to resemble an Academy Awards ceremony. There were gold and silver balloons, huge stars on the stage, a golden runway with ARIS etched in the foil, twinkling lights, and draped netting. As students’ names were announced by their teachers, awards were handed out for all A’s every grading period, personal success, assorted memberships in clubs, most improved in reading or math, citizenship, perfect attendance, and more. Parents came and applauded and took lots of pictures. Then, all went back to their classrooms for end-of-the-year parties. Laquisia Williams’s class is shown with their awards. 45

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Best Bets for Bath Time

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Announcing bath time for your kids can be an easy sell or the fight of your life. Trying to convince them it’s a good deal purely from a hygiene stance doesn’t always work. Finding water-friendly toys and activities that make bathing fun and entertaining is your best ally to get children out of their clothes and into the water. The following items have fantastic aquatic appeal for both wee bathers and the tub supervisors looking for a clean bath time experience!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Plui

Ferry Boat with Mini Cars

(Moluk) From the creators of the wildly popular and versatile Bilbo, the Plui is an entrancing tub toy that‘s a guaranteed hit for kids. Submerge the Plui and it fills with water through the hole in the top. Placing a finger over the hole prevents the water from sprinkling out through the small nozzles on the bottom as it’s lifted up. It offers a subtle lesson in aquatic principles as kids control the flow of water allowed to ‘rain’ from the bottom of the Plui. With simplicity of design that belies its entertainment and educational value, the Plui will keep young bathers happy in the tub until the water is cold!

(Green Toys)

The best of land and sea combine in Green Toys’ Ferry Boat! Complete with two fast-back mini cars, and modeled after real two-story car-carrying vessel, the Ferry Boat has an adjustable sliding ramp for boarding and off-loading cars and cargo. With realistic design features, it’s seaworthy for bath play and ideal for land action as well. Constructed from 100% recycled milk jugs, the Ferry Boat with Mini Cars is also an environmentally sound bath toy choice that’s durable, buoyant and dishwasher-safe!

Super Scoop

Floating WonderBlocks

(Brica)

A tub full of toys is the mark of bath time enjoyed, but all good times come to an end. And all those soggy toys need to find a new home, high and dry, until they’re called back into action. With counter space at a premium and under cabinet storage raising the risk of mildew, the Super Scoop is a quick, easy and sensible toy storage solution. Simply drag the large mouth of the Scoop through the water and the mesh fabric collects the toys above and below the surface. A push-lock suction cup that mounts easily on fiberglass tubs provides the anchor to hang the Super Scoop where toys can air dry until the next bath time. It’s a clean winner for tub time!

(eWonderWorld)

Creativity doesn’t have to stop just because the water’s rising. Floating WonderBlocks offer kids the resources to design and build their own wonders on top of the water. With 16 blocks in a variety of shapes and sizes, (and two duckies!) the WonderBlocks set also includes a mat that serves as the floating foundation for the edifices that will arise upon the waves. Crafted with sturdy, lightweight EVA foam the blocks can stick to most tub sides with simple water tension, adding another dimension to bath time design. For the little bather who’s ready to build, Floating WonderBlocks carries construction projects forward in the tub!

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

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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Consider campus size. What size of campus will appeal the most? As my daughter, Natalie, and I learned, actually visiting the campus was the best way to get a feeling for size. On our visits, we observed the kind of people who were walking around campus. How did the large campus feel? Or, would she prefer a smaller campus? Our tour guides made impressions on us. One professor stood out. He made Natalie feel welcome when she sat in on his class and remembered her name when he saw her the next day.

eady or not, prepared or not, when summer is over, your child is set to begin the final, defining and transitory, senior year of high school. Whether this is your first or third child, each collegebound high school student walks a unique path. By the beginning of your child’s senior year, you may be in the refining stages of your child’s dream or your child may be considering fast and furiously what opportunities are available. High school counselor Brooke Nova encourages parents to “start the conversations early about college and career.” Speak to several people about their careers and explore college campuses. Nova emphasizes that setting up overnight stays on college campuses “are free.”

Discuss distance from home. How far away is your child comfortable living? Some students are fine going to the opposite side of the country while others prefer to stay close to home, where weekend visits are possible or perhaps even to live at home that first year. My son, Thomas, demonstrated his independent nature by his choice to study a good six-hour drive away at the opposite end of our home state.

Talk it over. You have been listening to your child’s dreams all through her childhood. You are her first advisor. Now is the time to reflect the intimate knowledge that you have gained over these precious and fleeting years. What are his talents? What is she passionate about? What will she always want to be a part of her life? What does he want to contribute? Making time for conversation and real dialogue with your child is crucial to helping her to focus her aspirations on a possible program of study. Never underestimate what is possible.

Apply, apply, and apply. Early in the senior year is time to tackle the tedious work of completing college admissions applications as well as scholarship applications. This load will be lightened considerably if, as Nova suggests, the student has used the summer of junior to senior year to research scholarships and to draft samples of scholarship and admissions essays. Sarah Myers McGinty’s book, “The College Application Essay” by College Board is an excellent reference to use as a guide for those intimidating essays.

Brainstorm a big list. The first list of colleges and universities should include a wide spectrum of choices from which to ultimately choose. Some of these choices should provide a stretch that challenges your child to reach further. Encourage your child to attend college presentations that are offered at the high school. Explore university websites together and separately. Your child will let you know when your presence over his or her shoulder is no longer required. You can compare notes later.

Make that essay shine. Parents, siblings, and friends can help with the editing process. In most cases, the final admissions or scholarship application is uploaded online. Take the time, however, to print out the various pieces and refine the wording. If ever there were a time for perfectionism, the time is when writing

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Brooke Nova encourages students to finish most everything, “(applications to college, scholarships, and FAFSA), should be done by winter break.” After the first semester seniors are typically “’over high school’ so getting everything done before break really does help,” she concludes.

college and scholarship applications. Proofreading by multiple sets of eyes can add exponential value. Print hard copies of all the applications and keep them in a large accordion style file or file box. The file box will be full if not bursting by the end of the year.

Support without hovering. Your child needs your support during this process. Most students this age need help breaking down the projects and requirements into manageable bits. They need help managing deadlines and timelines. Brooke Nova, who specializes in college and career counseling, suggests parents start tracking all community service once students enter ninth grade.

Wait it out. Even after all of this preparation, there is nothing to do but hang in there with your child and wait for the letters of acceptance or rejection to arrive in the mail. If your child was taking some risks in the application process, there are bound to be disappointments as well as victories. Each letter brings opportunity for feedback and learning for both of you. You will likely celebrate one day and then receive sobering news the next. Be prepared for tears. Remind your child that the closing of one door opens another.

Attend financial aid presentations. Many high schools have at least one night, usually in the fall, to invite someone from a local University Financial Aid Office to speak about financial aid. In his presentations, Mike Johnson, Director of Financial Aid for Pacific University, likes to go beyond the basic information. “I also try to provide a reality check on what costs really mean.” Johnson helps parents to consider how much the tuition “sticker price” can be alleviated by factoring in the potential for financial aid in their situation. It is helpful to attend more than one of these presentations. I attended a multitude of them. Attend at least one with a friend, better yet; a friend who has already sent a child to college if this is your first. A second ear can help with sorting through the information overload. I found it nearly impossible to assimilate all the information, terminology, and financial acronyms, in one sitting. Allow time to make sense of it all in order to be able to apply the information to your individual situation.

Accept the roller coaster. During my daughter’s senior year, sometimes she accepted gentle reminders, other times, she bristled at any suggestions. As a parent, I was continually walking that tight rope between supporting and hovering. I felt the stress of meeting the application deadlines right along with her. Even so, I couldn’t write her essay for her. I was almost grateful when she shut her bedroom door in my face so she could work on it on her own. Later, when she took the envelope into her room to open privately in her own space, I held my breath, too. But the results were hers, not mine. Whatever the news, ceremonies that mark the end of high school for your child are rich with meaning and memories. You will have endured the ups and downs of a unique and remarkable senior year with your child. The events and memories of senior year will stay with both of you as you take the next step to life beyond the high school years together. mp

Get a jump on senioritis. Senioritis seems to hit all of them. It’s just a matter of how far into the year it takes to kick in.

Splashing Swimming Sliding Riding Spraying Playing

Diane Turner Maller is a freelance writer and mother of two college students. She recently attended the ceremonies for her daughter’s college graduation in May.

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Want to plan a birthday party that is flexible enough for any budget and suitable for any type of weather? Then why not try a “Fancy Friends” party? Whether you hold your festivities indoors or out, a Fancy Friends party works well for groups of many sizes and is a good choice when you have a combination of girls and boys ages five to nine. A lavish table: What’s handy about a swanky theme like “Fancy Friends” is that you can make use of what you already have on hand that is appropriate. For younger children, hold back on the breakables. But older kids enjoy the opportunity to show they can handle the sophisticated treatment. For my daughter’s eighth birthday, I dug up a shimmery tablecloth, my husband’s grandmother’s teacups and tea plates, some pastel streamers, and a few crystal bowls and platters we rarely use.

Extravagant (yet inexpensive) favors: There are a few types of party favors that will help you set the right tone for your festive occasion, when you set them out for guests to put on as they arrive: sparkly sun glasses (look for star shaped), tiaras or tops hats, fine gems (sparkly necklaces, rings, bracelets, and hair clips—these often come in a combination bag). If you want to go extra elegant, you can find marabou feather boas in a wide variety of colors at your local art supply store and black canes at your local party supply. Borrow from the grown-ups: If you are fond of throwing parties for adults, be sure to check your stash before you shop. Those frou-frou toothpicks or colorful drink stirrers might be a blast for the kids to try. Then simply find napkins, balloons, plates and silverware in colors that round out what you already have at your local party supply or dollar store. Shop around: A focus on “fancy” rather than a specific character theme offers you a lot of creative leeway when it comes to planning. Check the clearance aisles first and then cruise the entire store for the most economical combinations of supplies. For example, our tiaras came from the bachelorette aisle, our necklaces from the Mardi Gras display, and our top hats from the Oscars party aisle.

Focus on fun food: Unlike other parties that skip mealtime altogether, your Fancy Friends will benefit from a solid meal in their tummies before the fun begins. Here’s what’s on the menu: three varieties of sandwiches on whole grain white bread cut into shapes with cookie cutters (cream cheese & cucumber, peanut butter n’ jelly, and almond butter n’ jelly), a colorful veggie plate/fruit plate (carrots, snap peas Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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and red pepper slices with strawberries, melon chunks, green grapes), and a bowl fancy chips of your choice (chips with ridges or cheese puff balls work well).

Pinkies extended: If you are using special teacups, cold tea makes an easy substitute for hot tea. Just pour it straight into their cups at room temperature. You can also provide pink lemonade or milk, since most kids will prefer a variety of drinks. For the cake, either opt for a matching flowery design, or if you have a tiered holder, opt for a cupcake tree instead. Flowery paper cups also work fine. Flamboyant movement: After lunch, the kids are going to be ready to get down and party. Here are some simple activities to keep them moving until it’s time for cake and presents: Freeze tag is a simple game that works for kids of all ages. An impromptu dance party or fashion show can be set to music. A room full of blown balloons or a game of Twister is a happy way to pass some fancy time. Bubble blowing is an activity that pleases kids of all ages and can happen outside or on a patio. Clip-on paper butterflies (from your local art supply) hidden around the house or yard make for a fun scavenger hunt. Musical chairs, a marching parade, or pin the accessories on the _________ (you decide) are other fun ideas whether you are inside or out. Something anti-fancy: With so many elaborate activities, your guests will appreciate an anti-fancy climax like whacking a piñata (in a fancy shape, of course). Your local store’s selection will likely include cupcakes, stars, crowns, purses, nail polish bottles, rainbows, flowers, poodles, or castles. Stuff your piñata with lollipops, mini granola bars, and chocolate kisses or a selection of healthy snacks such as dried fruit rolls and protein bars. Everyone will be more settled for cake and gift opening after they’ve stuffed goodie bags with treats to take home. Add one final favor at each place setting just before candle lighting, like a silly straw or a bouncy ball, and you’ve got a party your child will fondly remember. Happy fancy fun! mp Christina Katz is a freelance writer and mom, who loves fancy things. Her latest book is The Writer’s Workout from Writer’s Digest Books.

200-D Deatsville Hwy Millbrook, Alabama 53

www.whimsydaisy.net (334) 318-7485 www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Investing in Your Style

fashionista! I love my heels and I want to be able to wear them for a long time. That’s why investing in a nice, comfy pump is a key investment. I would go for a neutral color pump...preferably nude or camel. This is an easy transitional color.

2-Flats This southern savvy stylist loves a great style bargain, but I also feel like every woman should have a few items in her wardrobe that she has splurged on. These items are great to invest in and have in your closet for two reasons: 1) They are timeless pieces, and 2) You can mix them in with the savvy purchases you will buy during each season. Below are a few items I think will be worth the investment. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m all about saving money on your style, so if you can find these items at a lower cost, whether at your favorite outlet store, on-line, or at an end of season discount...go for it! I’m all about purchasing investment pieces at half the cost.

1-Patent Pumps A simple, classic pump works for everything from job interviews to first dates to black-tie weddings to girls night out. Find a pair that’s comfy (okay, relatively so) and take the plunge. Comfort, as I have learned thought the years, is important when it comes to your style. Who wants their feet to be in pain by the end of the day? Not this Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Whether it’s a ballet flat or pointed toe (which I prefer) these are wonderful investment pieces. You can wear them to work or keep them super casual. The fact that you can make these an easy transitional style helps when you are investing in a good pair of shoes, and your feet will thank you as well. There is nothing wrong with investing in a flat rather than a heel.

3-Little Black Dress If you’re going to splurge on just one item, make it the simple black dress in a style that suits your body type. A black dress is versatile and can be non-seasonal if bought in the right material. You can really take the perfect black dress from day to night, as well as changing up the style simply by adding your favorite layers or accessories.

4-Perfectly-Fitting Denim There’s absolutely nothing—nothing—like finding that amazing pair of denim jeans. Talk about non-seasonal and easy transitional styling, jeans are the perfect item to sink a little extra cash into, and they’ll pay for themselves in compliments. 54

5-Timeless Handbag We all know accessories can really bring an outfit to life and I feel confident that the perfect handbag can do this, too. We all depend on this fashion accessory, so why not invest a little more money into your favorite handbag. Find a color and style that is non-seasonal and that will go with practically every item in your closet. This will make your investment worthwhile! Yellow and gold tones, plus browns (like camel) are a few good options.

6-Layering piece This can be a blazer, cardigan, jacket, etc. Invest in one layering item that can be non-seasonal and add style to your wardrobe. Maybe invest in a pop of color or keep it neutral and add color with your accessories. Now, you don’t need to drop a ton of money on these investment pieces. Just enjoy the thrill of finding these expensive items at half the cost. Also, if you invest in one of these items that costs a bit more, then take my southern savvy advice and add beauty bargain pieces to these expensive investments. This is what styling is all about...being able to take staple pieces of clothing in your closet and transforming them into a gorgeous new style. Investing a little can save you a lot! Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website at www. centsiblysouthern. com.

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Glitterbug the Clown!

CAKES/ FINGER FOOD • Bruster’s Ice Cream & Yogurt: 272.7369, 6835 Vaughn Road and 239-7004, 9182 Boyd Copper Parkway. Select from 8” round cake or 9x12 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. For pies, choose from fresh ice cream over a thick, rich layer of fudge, caramel, marshmallow, or your favorite topping. All pies are available in Oreo or Graham Cracker Crust. We also have pies available. • Cake Designs: 288.6900, 3651 Debby Dr. in LeCroy Village. Specialty cakes all offered with professional decorating. Specialize in children’s birthday parties. Closed on Sunday and Monday. • Cupcakes by Tish: (334) 625.0999, 1940 Mulberry Street or 334-356-5292, 7276 East Chase Parkway. 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. Please visit us at www.cupcakesbytish. com

ments of gymnastics are combined into one fun filled hour on board the Big Green Bus! Our party includes a zip-line, tumbling mats, monkey bar, rock wall, slides, tunnels, beam, bar, vault, rings, parachute games, and more! We will introduce your child to the wild and crazy world of gymnastics. The birthday child will receive a Big Green Bus shirt! Goody bags are included in the prices. To schedule your party, please call Amber Holley at (334) 324.4628, or visit our website at www. biggymbus.com.

Big Red Fire Truck

• Great American Cookie Co. at Eastchase: 356.8111, 7048 Eastchase Pkwy. Choose from 16” round for $27.99, and large Rectangular for $36.99. • ICBY: 271.5944, 4339 Atlanta Hwy. Birthday Pies made of any flavor yogurt. You may choose from various decorations and designs. Please call for flavors and pricing. • Liger’s Bakery: 288.6550, 3040 McGehee Rd. Open Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday, 6:30 a.m. - 4p.m. Any flavor birthday cake, round or sheet, decorated with flowers, fruit, etc. We also have cookies, cupcakes and sandwiches available. Cake prices start at $15 and up. • Original Great American Cookie Co: 271.1900, Eastdale Mall. Up to 13 different varieties of cookies: 12” round $19.99, 16” round $25.99, sheet cookie $34.99.

ENTERTAINMENT Big Green Bus

The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. Many eleMontgomery Parents I July 2014

• K & S DJ Services: 285.6686. Website: www.knsdjservice.com Email: dj4hire@kns-djservice.com. Over 20 years experience offering entertainment music, interactive games and party props for all ages. 2 disc jockeys for every party/ event. Call for more details. • Kindermusik of Montgomery: 271.3264 or Hallhome96@aol.com. Travel to party location. 30 minutes of music class for $50. Several themes to choose from. All instruments provided. • Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters Call Charles Renfroe at 280.3001. Invite Party Ponies to come to your home for very special birthday entertainment. • Rolling Video Games of Alabama: (334) 272.0028 or (855) 844.GAME. We bring the party to you! A climate controlled, customized, self powered, mobile video game theatre. Now offering pizza with 2 hours party game package. Please visit us at www.rollingvideogames.com. • RockStar Parties and Events: 399.6962. DJ and Staged events. Stage and lights available. Available for any type of event. Visit us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/rockstarevent.

• Dairy Queen: 244.9490, 6120 Atlanta Hwy. Chocolate and vanilla ice cream, and chocolate crunch. 8” round $21.49, 10” round $23.49, sheet cakes $32.99. All can be personalized at no additional charge. • GiGi’s Cupcakes: 356.3737, 7918 Vaughn Road. Nothing makes a special day unforgettable like a custom cupcake creation from Gigi’s. Special selection offered every day of the week. You may order online at our website and pick up at the store or view our daily menu online. http://www. gigiscupcakesusa.com/montgomeryalabama.

(334) 868.3876; Birthday parties, face painting, magic, balloon animals, temporary airbrush tattoos for the older kids! Tiger grams and Tiger Bombs also available! For booking info. please visit us at www.glitterbugtheclown.com or call (334) 868.3876. You may also email kimpossible21@gmail.com

Soiree Mobile Spa Parties for Girls

on the lights and sirens, Fire extinguisher water guns for summer parties, Birthday child gets a Big Red Fire Truck shirt, and Fire truck themed goodies for up to 15 guests. Please call Jeff for more information at (334) 868.9144 or visit us at www.biggymbus.com and click on the Big Red Fire truck link. • DJ at Large: 260.9732. Offers a variety of music plus karaoke and light shows for your child’s party. Video parties with 8 or 12 ft. screens and popular videos. Bubble parties offered as well. We can also provide the building for the party for an extra charge. Provides age appropriate music and will censor music to your discretion. Please call for pricing. “We put you first.” Email: DJ@AtLarge.com Website: www. DJatLarge.com.

Dynamite Magic & Balloons

219.0896; www.myspasoiree.com We are an event planning service specializing in stylish spa and beauty themed parties for girls ages 4-14. Offering mobile parties to any venue in the River Region. Several create your own party stations and crafts for each event. We provide robes, headbands, linens and everything needed to transform the home or venue into a spa. Finish off with a fashion show on the pink carpet. • Trent McFarland ~ Cowboy: 558.3809. Professional rodeo cowboy with Old Yeller (famous dog) and Blue Rocket (gentle horse) offers guaranteed fun and entertainment for all ages with trick and fancy roping, whip-cracking bull whips, horse rides, and cowboy piñata. Available for birthday parties and all occasions. Ask about our special birthday party favors.

EQUIPMENT / GAME RENTALS • Arrow Rents: 277.0463, 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. “Your one stop party shop.”

270.1234, Visit www.dynamitemagicandballoons.com. 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.

• Bradley’s Events & Décor: (334) 220.6236, 969 Lagoon Business Loop. Bradley’s Events & Décor provides unique and innovative décor for all occasions. Please visit us at www.bradleysevents.com or visit us on Facebook at Bradley’s Events & Décor.

• Fontaine Entertainment: 514.4457. Visit www.fontaineentertainment.com. “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. Three hr. minimum.

• Brendle Rentals: 279.7368, 485 N. East Blvd. Party supplies. Inflatable jumping units: (space walk). Whale obstacle course (50 ft. long inflatable course with slides). Obstacle courses and other rides, carnival games, slide, bungee run, tents and train. We setup at City parks and provide insurance. Website: www. brendlerentals.com.

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Kitty and Friends Costumed Characters and Concessions

354.0625; Let us bring the fun to you for your next special event or special occasion! Choose from our popular costumed characters, fun food concessions & extras. Please visit us on Facebook under Kitty and friends costumed characters and concessions. • Moonwalk Montgomery: 277.2351. Moonwalks, Giant slides, Interactive inflatable, Obstacle Courses, Rides, Rock-Climbing wall, and much, much more. Rentals for special events. Please visit us at www.moonwalkofmontgomery.com.

Playtime Rentals

285.5444. We have a huge selection of bounce houses, slides and jumpers for your party. Call for rates and dates. Please visit www.playtimeinc.org.

variety of moon walks, slides, games, slide combos, obstacle courses, giant water slides, inflatable tents and inflatable rock climbing wall. Alabama’s only inflatable zip line. We also rent tables, tents, generators, chairs, balloons and concession machines. Costume characters are also available: Sponge Bob, Dora, Elmo and Spiderman. We now offer an indoor facility. We offer monthly specials. Please visit our website at www.thespacewalker.com . “You supply the people, we supply the fun.”

LIMOUSINES • Touch of Class Limousine: 284.2673. 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.

SpaceWalk of Montgomery

(334) 273.0204, What do you want to celebrate today? Setups for Birthday Parties, Daycare Events, Community/civic Events, School Carnivals and Sporting Events. We offer inflatable Space Walks, Water Slides, Obstacle Courses, Combos, and much more.

The Spacewalker, Allen Bowen

546.8116, 1514 West Street. We are a locally owned family business. Inflatable cinemas rental. We have a

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

PAPER GOODS/DECORATIONS/ INVITATIONS • Amy’s Hallmark: 215.2257, 7842 Vaughn Rd. (on the corner of Vaughn and Taylor Rd) Paper/party goods, gifts, invitations, and an assortment of cards. • Arrow Rents: 277.0463, 5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery. All sorts of theme decor, balloons, helium tanks,

and more. We provide a better selection. “Your one stop party shop.” • Brendle Rentals: 260.5568, 485 North Eastern Bypass, Montgomery’s Oldest Party Supply Store. Balloons, piñatas, party goods. Decorating themes available are fish, luau, western, fiestas, firemen, iridescent heart, gymnastics, ballerina, smiley face, train, patriotic, and sports. Party favors and birthday bags now available. • Capital City Copy Shop: 230.9681, 2701 Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery, fax services available. Please visit our website at www.capitalcitycopyshop.com. • Party City: 409.0901, 2759 Eastern Blvd. A onestop party store that provides a wide selection of merchandise at everyday low prices. Discounts up to 50% off party ensembles.

Party Junction

730.0990, 113 N. Memorial Drive, Prattville Balloons and party supplies for Birthdays, Theme Parties and more! Locally owned and operated by Mike and Maria Tillery. Open Monday thru Saturday, 9 am to 7 pm. • Sunday Dinner: 272.7000, 5455 Atlanta Hwy. Plates, cups, chafing dishes, large quantity food items. Open Sunday thru Monday.

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PARTY PLANNERS • Academy Events and Catering: 318.3047, 60 Commerce Street, Montgomery. Our goal is to exceed our customer’s expectations. Our specialties are our cakes and floral. Let us cater your special events with our own facility available for rent. www.academychefs.com. • Bradley’s Events & Décor: (334) 220.6236, 969 Lagoon Business Loop. Bradley’s Events & Décor provides unique and innovative décor for all occasions. Please visit us at www.bradleysevents.com or visit us on Facebook at Bradley’s Events & Décor.

Kitty and Friends Costumed Characters and Concessions

354.0625; Let us bring the fun to you for your next special event or special occasion! Choose from our popular costumed characters, fun food concessions & estras. Please visit us on Facebook under Kitty and friends costumed characters and concessions. • Personal Touch Wedding and Catering: 279.6279, 9920 Wares Ferry Rd. Complete party planning. Call for more information.

fax services available. Please visit our website at www. capitalcitycopyshop.com.

party goods, gifts, invitations, and an assortment of cards.

Creative Printing

• Barb’s on Mulberry: 269.BARB (2272), 1923 Mulberry Street. Will personalize lots of gift items. Choose from a wide variety of unique and personalized gifts. Closed on Mondays. We now do birthday parties. Call for more details or visit our website at www.barbsonmulberry. com.

281.1315, 2501 East Fifth Street. Everything is custom made for that extra special birthday. Please visit us at www.creativeprinting.us.com. • Kwik KopyShop: 244.0444, 4148 Carmichael Rd. Print custom invitations. Wide variety of designer invitations for theme parties such as pool, slumber, tea, zoo, carousel, western, bowling, skating, dancing, etc. 8 1/2 x 11 designed papers are available for you to do it yourself. Fast turn around. • The Paper Lady: Specializing in reasonably priced invitations, birth announcements, calling cards, thank you notes and more. Also an authorized Sweet Pea Designs dealer. To view the full selection of papers visit www.thepaperlady.net.

UNIQUE GIFTS FOR KIDS AND ADULTS

PRINTED INVITATIONS

• Alabama Shakespeare Festival Gift Shop: 271.5358, Blount Cultural Park. Theatre-related gifts. Open during performance hours, one hour prior to show and through intermission. Contact box office for show times. 271.5353.

• Capital City Copy Shop: 230.9681, 2701 Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery,

• Amy’s Hallmark: 215.2257, 7842 Vaughn Rd. (on the corner of Vaughn and Taylor Rd) Paper/

• Capitol City Comics: 215.3335, 7939 Vaughn Rd. (Festival Plaza). Large selection of comics, gaming cards, and statues. Military and college student discounts. • Quality Comix: 272.1787, 7968Vaughn Rd. Located in the Sturbridge Plaza. Talk with Jason for your comics or sports trading cards needs.

Embellish

(334) 649.2022, 7056 Atlanta Hwy, Large selection of items to be monogrammed. Book bags, Scout bags, Brush Fire T-shirts, jewelry, tumblers and much more. • Jan Beale’s You Name It: 272.9878, 5350 A Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery. We specialize in monogrammed and personalized gifts for all occasions. You’ll find exceptional gift items for baby, children, and adults. Many of our items can be monogrammed or personalized, adding that very special touch to your gift. Please visit us on our website at www.younameitinfo.com or come visit us in the shop.

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• Kazoo Toys: 244.4199, 7850 Vaughn Rd. (down from Stein Mart) A full service toy store that offers a truly unique toy-shopping experience. Complimentary gift -wrapping available. Please visit us on Facebook at Kazoo Toys Alabama. • Majestic Monograms: (334) 328.0820 We offer custom business logos, personalized baby/ children’s gifts, Greek merchandise, and more to meet all of your embroidery needs. Need t-shirts for that special event? We can do that too! We have lots of choices including shirts for family reunions, sports events, schools, etc. We carry some of your favorite brands including Comfort Colors and Charles River apparel. Check us out at www.facebook.com/MajesticMonograms.

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Gift Shop

240.4337; Blount Cultural Park. You will find a wide assortment of unique gifts that are handcrafted by local artists for that special someone.

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of 270.1456, 401 Coliseum Blvd. Eastbrook Shopping Center. We offer something for the everything in your life. Specialty gifts, home décor, candles, jewelry, pewter, children’s couture, vinyl and monogrammed gifts. Please visit us on Facebook at The Shoppes of My Kids Attic. • Old Alabama Town Gift Shop: 240.4500, 301 Columbus St. Regional and old-fashioned gift items. • Periwinkles: 277.3570, 8189 Vaughn Road. Make your gift decisions from a large selection of popular items in our store.

The Dollhouse Toy Store

239.7326, 1963 Mulberry Street. Two stories of toys for boys and girls of all ages featuring Lionel trains, Breyer horses, Melissa & Doug toys, Thomas & Friends, and many other crafts, games, toys and collectibles. Open 10 am-6 pm Tuesday thru Saturday. • The Goat Hill Museum Store: 353.4969, located in

Alabama’s State Capitol Building. Civil War, Civil RightsBooks, Local Artwork, Toys, Collectibles, Ornaments, Music, Videos, Cookbooks, Pottery, Souvenirs, and Unique Southern Gifts. Union Street Entrance. Open Mon.-Fri, 8:00 - 4:30 and Sat. from 9-4 (Sat. please enter through the Union St. entrance). • The Montgomery Zoo Gift Shop: 240.4900, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Off the Northern Blvd. Animalrelated toys, shirts, masks, jewelry. Great gifts for the animal lover. • The Turtle Shell: 358.0902, 160 W. Main St., Prattville. Educational items including reading games, room decorations, math workbooks, gifts for birthdays, science kits, puzzles and music.

unique selection of gifts, tumblers, jewelry and more. Please visit www.tuckerpecan.com.

• Two Blessings: 647.1745, 8127 Vaughn Rd. Carries a unique selection of gifts for men, women and children. Please visit our Facebook page at Two Blessings Gift Boutique.

YARD SIGNS • Flamingo-A-Friend: 279.3737. Choose from flamingos (assorted colors), smiley faces, cows & pigs, penguins, elephants, or footballs to fill your yard and

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• The Velvet Pumpkin: 273.9293, 8185 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Annex. Beautiful selection of unique Clothing, Vera Bradley, frames and bath items.

• Things Remembered: 271.9509, 7056 Eastchase Pkwy. Personalized gifts for all occasions. Name badges, monogramming on blankets, and engraving on items bought elsewhere. Please visit us online at www.thingsremembered.com. • Tucker Pecan Company: 262.4470, 350 N McDonough St., Montgomery. Come by and visit us for a

surprise your birthday child when they awake. Also, a 4 ft. personalized sign with birthday message. Set up before 6:30 a.m. and clean up by 6 p.m. Please call for rates.

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• Abrakadoodle: 265.5758. Creative art fun for your child for his or her birthday party. Visit the website for more information. www.abrakadoodle.com. • Artistic Expressions: 285.7878, 3335 Highway 14 Fountain Plaza in Millbrook. Party room, staff/ staff members, personalized birthday plate for the party child. Day of party you only pay for what the children paint. We now offer Parties to go and Home parties. Please call or visit our website for more details. Website: www.paintatartisticexpressions.com or visit us on facebook. • P’zazz Art Studio: 354.1975, 138 W. Main St., Downtown Prattville. If you are looking for a unique place for a birthday party…then P’zazz is your place. Birthday Party Packages start at $175 for up to 12 children. $15 for each additional child. This includes the use of P’zazz for 2 hours, a 16x20 canvas for each guest, supplies, and instruction on how to paint a picture of your choice. Each child will leave with a completed painting as their party favor. Guests are allowed to bring in their own food and drink. We provide time for each and to open gifts. Please visit our website at www.prattville. pzazzart.com for more information.

Whimsy Daisy Art Studio

318.7485, 200-D Deatsville Hwy, Millbrook www.whimsydaisy.net Want to give your child the birthday party that kids will be talking about for months to come? Birthday parties at Whimsy Daisy have a little music, a little paint, and a whole lot of fun! The cost is $175 for up to 12 children. $12 for each additional child. Give us your party theme and we can create a special painting just for you! The guest of honor also receives a special gift created just for them from Whimsy Daisy! You are welcome to bring in a cake, food, and beverages. The best part is… the kids paint their own party favor and take it home to remember their friend’s special day! $50 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your party date/time and will be applied the day of your party.

PLACES TO PARTY - BOWLING • BAMA Lanes Inc: 272.5423, 3020 Atlanta Hwy. Package A) $9.00 per child plus tax, 2 hour party, Full birthday party setup, shoe rental, bumpers, ice cream, soft drink, Happy Birthday bowling pin/balloon bouquet. Package B) $10.00 plus tax per child. Includes package #1 plus hotdog and chips. Package C) $12.00 plus tax per child. Includes Package 1 Plus 2 slices of Pizza. Six child minimum with a $20.00 deposit. Weekday, Weekend or Evening (subject to lane availability) • BAMA Lanes, Prattville: 358.8600, 1714 East Main St., Weekday Party Hours and Prices: Monday-Thursday 10:30 – 3:30 and Friday: 10:30 to 6 p.m. Package A: $59.95 for one lane (six children per lane), 1 1/2 hour party. Shoe rental, bumpers for ages 8 and under, ice cream, drink, birthday pin and a balloon bouquet. Package B: $69.95 per lane (six children per lane). As above, plus hot dog with chips. Weekend parties: Party Package A: $69.95 per lane. 2 hrs., shoe rental, bumpers, ice cream, drink, birthday pin and balloon bouquet. Package B: $79.95 per lane. As above, plus hot dog and chips. Six child minimum and $25 deposit required.

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• Brunswick Zone: 819.7171, 1661 Eastern Blvd. Birthday party package: Pkg A: $15.99 per child for 2 hour party, bowling, shoes, one pizza per 5 children, 1 pitcher of soda per 5 children, Paper goods, Printable invitations and thank you cards, festive balloon bouquet, Coupon for one free game of bowling for all party guests, Bowling pin sipper bottle for birthday kid and a party hero to host your party. Pkg B: $19.99 per child which includes everything in Pkg A plus a goodie bag for each child, $3.00 in games tokens for each child, a glow necklace for each child and a real signature bowling pin for all of the party guests to sign. $25 deposit required. Please call for more info.

PLACES TO PARTY - GAMES • The Players Arcade: 272.1066. Eastdale Mall. $75 for 300 tokens. Party area for 1.5 hours. You bring food, drink, and table settings. Private parties also available.

PLACES TO PARTY GYMNASTICS/CHEER/DANCE Big Green Bus

The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. Many elements of gymnastics are combined into one fun filled hour on board the Big Green Bus! Our party includes a zip-line, tumbling mats, monkey bar, rock wall, slides, tunnels, beam, bar, vault, rings, parachute games, and

more! We will introduce your child to the wild and crazy world of gymnastics. The birthday child will receive a Big Green Bus shirt! Goody bags are included in the prices. To schedule your party, please call Amber Holley at (334) 324.4628, or visit our website at www. biggymbus.com.

Big Red Fire Truck

A member of the Big Green Bus Family. Our one hour party package includes: Children (ages 2 and up) enjoy the excitement of climbing on board and exploring a real working fire truck, inside and out, turn on sirens and flashing lights, Try on realistic fire fighter gear including pants, jacket suspenders, hats and fire extinguishers, Firefighter themed games, Fire safety lesson, Birthday child and parent get to ride around the neighborhood in the fire truck and turn on the lights and sirens, Fire extinguisher water guns for summer parties, Birthday child gets a Big Red Fire Truck shirt, and Fire truck themed goodies for up to 15 guests. Please call Jeff for more information at (334) 868.9144 or visit us at www.biggymbus.com and click on the Big Red Fire truck link. • Maya’s Dance & Fitness: (334) 322.0946. Offering glow-in-the-dark birthday parties for kid’s ages 4-12 including a combination of Zumba movements from salsa, merengue, reggaeton, hip-hop and more designed just for kids. Please call for more information. • Montgomery Ballet: (334) 409.0522, 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 about price and dates available.

Tonya Speed Dance

277.1098, 3370 Harrison Road. 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. Parties start at $200 and up with themed parties such as Pretty Princess, Tumbling Toddlers, Disco, Hip-Hop, Disneymania, “I’m Thirteen,” Mardi Gras, Hannah Montana, ‘Hoe Down, Throw Down” and more. We also have space for dances, proms and ballroom parties for all ages. www. tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.com.

United Gymstars

284.2244, 6100 Brewbaker Blvd., off Troy Hwy. Website: www.unitedgymstars.com. 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. Call for more information.

PLACES TO PARTY MARTIAL ARTS Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center

220.5835, 3179 Taylor Rd. (Sturbridge Shopping Center), Docarmo’s Birthday Bash. For $10.00 per

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child you get: Use of Docarmo’s facilities which means you don’t have to worry about the mess! A taekwondo Intro class. 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. Free lessons offered on all participants. www.trytkdfree.com • Family Karate Center: 277.4911, 8159 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Shopping Center. Parties now available 7 days a week from 2 and up. We now offer a Karate Kid Movie Birthday Party. We offer fun wholesome birthday parties at our facility. Included in our parties are 2 hours of jam-packed fun, including: each guest will receive a 1 month FREE pass to Stranger Danger, Free Stranger Danger Demonstration at every Birthday party. Ask Mom First, and the Bully Buster program. Birthday child and guests receive a FREE uniform. Kung Fu Panda Balance Beam, Fun and exciting coordination skills & drills, Board Breaking Contest, Samurai Frisbee, Ninja Ball Bounce, Power Ranger relays, SWAT (Student Winning Attitude Team) Team Exercises, STORM (Student Team of Role Models) Team Demonstration and Teen Team Demonstration Squad. Stranger Danger Child ID Packages provided so mom does not have to supply gift bags. Mother of Birthday child, Birthday child and guests receive gifts. Moms let Master Coker do all the work so moms can just show up and have fun. If Birthday child signs up for classes that day then the party is FREE. If any guest signs up for classes they get a free party. Parties for 2-4 year olds now offered. Unlimited guests.

Fleming Martial Arts

4315 Atlanta Hwy., 277.5425. We have a 4,000 square foot facility for 1½ hours of fun. We provide the entertainment, tables and chairs and you provide the food, paper and utensils. Flat fee of $175. Call us to book your party. Please visit our website at www. flemingsmai.com.

Johnson Karate & Fitness Academy

2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J, 284.2344 $150 for 1.5 hours of pure fun. You provide the food and we provide the fun. Please call for more information. • NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville (334) 590.3759, 698 Old Farm Lane S, Prattville $150 for 1.5 hours. Karate fun and games. Parents provide paper products and cake and food. Please visit us at www.nextgenmartialarts.com.

Tiger Park Taekwondo

277.2627, 3125 Bell Road Come party with us! For $75 we provide the facility, demonstration, mini-taekwondo class and Birthday child gets to break a board. You provide food and cleanup. Please call for more information.

PLACES TO PARTY MISCELLANEOUS Adventure Sports Aquatic Center

269.3483, 1546 East Ann Street. Website: www. adventuresports2.com. Indoor and outdoor pools, kiddie pool, grilling and picnic area. Price of $200 includes lifeguard for 20 children over 8 for two hours. You bring food and cake. Additional lifeguard it $25. Under age of 8 the limit is 16 per lifeguard. Call for details. • Antique Train Rides: Call toll free 1(800) 943.4490, Located in Calera, 60 miles north of Montgomery. Party

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takes place in the restored Amtrak car. Includes a 45 minute 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.) Please call for dates and party packages or visit us at www.hodrrm.org for birthday information.

virtual party perks! All party guests get to enjoy the fun of playing at home for FREE at www.buildabearville.com. Plus, get cool virtual stuff for their online character. Minimum of 6 guests for 1.5 hours. We are not licensed to serve food and beverages in our store. There is a list of mall food partners that may offer a discount to your group. Please visit www.buildabear. com for those listings.

pool includes slide and splash pool. YMCA provides lifeguards for party. Contact Carolyn Delcarmen.

• Bell Road YMCA: 271.4343, 2435 Bell Rd. Please contact Jackie Gentry for parties for members. Can rent pool, building or both. Goodtimes Waterpark: $350 for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Bell Road Indoor Pool Complex: $250 for 2 hours includes lifeguards. Bell Road Outdoor Pool: $200 for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Adventure Room: $100 for 2 hours during business hours (2:30-4:30 p.m.) on Saturday. Please call for more information and availability. Inflatables party room at Goodtimes with eating area. Sat. & Sundays only. Please call Goodtimes for more information about Inflatables party at 279-8878.

• Chuck E Cheese: 281.9290, 1116 Eastdale Mall. Three party packages offered. Star Package: Two hours of reserved table space, Crown or Tiara with 8 tokens for the Birthday Star, Ticket Blaster experience for the Birthday Star with the Magic Ticket worth 1,000 tickets, Guitar pick medallion for the Birthday star. Jumbo guitar balloon for the birthday star, star recognition in our birthday show, 20 tokens per child, soft drinks with free refills per child, two slices of one topping pizza per child, star tablecloth and plateware, party host/hostess and email invitation powered by Evite. Superstar package: includes everything in the Star package plus microphone balloon per child, rock star collectible cup per child, additional 16 tokens per child and 1,000 ticket vouchers for the birthday child. Mega super star package: includes everything in the star & super star package plus, Chuck E. Cheese goody bag per child, pull string piñata with 40 tokens and 400 tickets, chocolate or vanilla ice cream cup per child, and 50 bonus tokens for the party. Please visit us at www. chuckecheese.com.

• FC Montgomery Soccer: Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd., (334) 207.5442 (indoor/air conditioned) Team 1136 provides arrangements for your child’s birthday party. We offer 1 or 2 hours celebration including: soccer games for the kids with Coach Bruno and space to enjoy your food and birthday cake. Cost: $100 for 1 hour and $175 for 2 hours. Please visit www.fcmontgomery.com and contact coach Bruno brunomr@ team1136.com or (334) 207.5442.

• Build a Bear Workshop: 1050 Eastdale Mall, (334) 279.6415. Our hours of operation are Monday- Saturday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Our party planners can customize a party just for you! Hassle FREE! Have a party with no mess and no clean up. Includes a party leader to keep your guests entertained. You set the price! Starting at just $12 per guest. Every scheduled party includes photo to remember your party, party favor for all party guests, awesome gift for guests of honor, printable invitations and thank-you cards at www.buildabear.com. Plus,

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

• East Branch YMCA: 272.3390, 3407 Pelzer Ave. Parties for members. Indoor and outdoor pools. Outdoor

Eastdale Mall Island Carousel

270.2736 (located outside of Belks). 4 Tables available for you to set up. If you come early you can hold them. We can not reserve the tables. Child and 9 friends ride one time for FREE.

• McWane Center, Birmingham: They do it all - cake, punch, ice cream, paper products and, if you like, goodie bags. If you want a special science demonstration while you celebrate, they can also provide that. Your group will party in one of the colorful party rooms, then take to the museum floor for a full day of hands-on science fun and discovery. Of course, you can also see a movie while there. For cost details and reservations, call (205) 714.8369 or visit our website: www.mcwane.org. • Prattville East YMCA: 358.9622, 972 McQueen Smith Rd., Party room for members and non-members. Pool rental for members. Party room has a $20 deposit and

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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.

Pump It Up!

277.5678, 1029 Lagoon Business Loop, off the Northern Blvd. Website: www.pumpitupparty.com. We are on the 10 Best Birthday Parties list from Parents Magazine Nationally. Only at “The Inflatable Party Zone” can you enjoy a private, indoor party with giant interactive inflatable play structures. A Pump It Up party is a fun and unforgettable event for ages 2 to adult! We offer four party packages. Surf our website for more information, or give us a call. Don’t forget to bring your socks!

Smiles Galore

269.2895, Montgomery. Plans parties for children. Many themes to choose from. Dress up, crafts, canvas painting, Diva, pirates, banana split Sundaes, superhero party, cowboy party, Princess party, just to name a few. Also do Stuff-n-fluff, Stuff a purse, Noahsaurs and Fluff parties and Bella B Glamour workshop for girls. Set up is included. We do as much or as little as you like for us to do. All ages. One call takes care of all your party needs. Visit us on the web at www. smilesgaloreinc.com.

• Southeast YMCA: 262.6411, 3455 Carter Hill Rd. Rent facilities for parties for preschool to age 14. Available for members and non-members. Call for rates and information.

• Shade Tree Riding Academy: 290.3727 or 546-3964, 566 Thornfield Dr., Millbrook. Gentle, experienced horses, easy trail and knowledgeable staff to assist beginners. Call today to reserve your party.

Splattered Woods Paintball

• YMCA Camp Chandler: 229.0035,Wetumpka, on Lake Jordan 30 minutes from Montgomery. Great birthday idea for kids 5 to 15. Ten child minimum. Year-round activities such as climbing tower, high ropes, archery, riflery, volley ball, floor hockey, canoeing, fishing, peddle boats, arts and crafts, basketball, carnival games, hayrides, game room, boat rides, and water balloon wars. Seasonal activities include swimming, water skiing, sailing, The Blob and horseback riding. $15 per child. Price includes everything from balloons to a cake for 3 hours. Please call for private party info.

300.2417, 2151 Cantelou Road, Montgomery, Al. Mobile paintball supply sales and service. We hose 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. Please visit us at www.splatteredwoodspaintball.com for party packages available and more information. Please visit us on Facebook at Splattered Woods Paintball by E&S Hobbies. • Wonder World Family Fun Center 127 North Memorial Drive, Prattville, 365.6600. Lasertag and Rollerskating parties available. Rollerskating, Arcade, Laser Tag, Snack Bar, Inflatables, Birthday Parties. Please call Debbie Brooks for details or visit our website at www.wonderworldfamilyfun.com

PLACES TO PARTY OUTDOORS • Montgomery Zoo: 240.4900, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. 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. Advanced reservations required.

• Water World: Westgate Pkwy., Dothan, Ala. (334) 793.0368. We have a gigantic wavepool, a twisting triple flume slide, a heart pumping great white slide, and a kiddie area for little brother or sister. We also have an exciting video arcade packed with new games! You must have at least 8 guests coming to your party, and each person who comes into the park must pay the admission fee. A reservation and payment for at least 8 people must be received no later than one week prior to the party. Pkg A: Children $9.00, Adults $12, 2 tables reserved for your party. A balloon for each guest. T-shirt for birthday child. Visit from Aquaduck, the Water World mascot. Pkg B: Children $10, Adults $13, Includes all items in Package A, plus small fountain drink for each guest and push up ice-cream

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for each guest. Free tube rental for birthday child and a party favor for each guest. Pkg C: Children $14, Adults $17, Includes all items in packages A & B, plus a kid’s meal combo. Please visit www. waterworlddothan.com for different party packages.

heated. Price starts at $300 during week, and $400 on weekends for 4 hours. Gateway Lodge is $600 during the week and $800 on the weekend. Gateway has a caterer’s kitchen. This books fast so call early. Please visit www.montgomeryal.gov click on departments and then parks and recreations.

PLACES TO PARTY - PARKS

• Prattville Parks: 361.3640. 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. Call Department of Leisure Services to reserve.

• Millbrook Memorial Center & Village Green Park: 285.6428, On Main Street and Grandview. 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. Call for more information or visit www.cityofmillbrook.org under parks and recreation tab for more information. • Montgomery City Parks: 241.2300, Speak with Ann Huebner to reserve picnic shelters all day for Lagoon Park, Buddy Watson Park, Ida Belle Young Park, Oak Park, Gateway and AUM Park. Large shelters 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. Pete Peterson Lodge in Lagoon Park is also available for rent and is air conditioned and

• Wetumpka Parks: 567.5147 for details on 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. Civic Center in Wetumpka, large room with kitchen, $500 refundable deposit, $125 cleaning fee and $1075 rental for 10a.m. until 12a.m. 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.

PLACES TO PARTY RESTAURANTS

• Cheezie’s Pizza: 8125K Decker Lane, 244.9496. Large Cheese or Pepperoni Pizzas are $4.99. • Chick Fil A: 271.0104, 2682 Eastern Blvd and Eastchase Pkwy., Montgomery. Playground and reserved section. Kids meal, toy, ice cream and visit from Cow (mascot) on request. $6 per child. Every child gets a balloon. • Cici’s Pizza: 386.3086, 981 Ann St. Cost by age,. Ages 10 and under, $4.60 per person; adults $8.12 including your drink of choice + plus tax. You bring cake and Cici’s does the rest. • Domino’s Pizza: All Locations, Offers discounted packages for at home parties. • Little Caesars: 288.1515, 3004 McGehee Rd. and at 5853 Atlanta Hwy, 277-4595, Montgomery. Order to pick up for parties or large gatherings. Large cheese or sausage or Large pepperonis for $5.00. • McDonald’s: Call individual stores for cost and details. Most offer similar packages. Cost varies slightly. Includes a Ronald McDonald cake, hamburger kid’s meal, ice cream, hostess, and party favors are supplied. Access to PlayLand after the party. • Nancy’s Italian Ice: 356.1403, 7976 Vaughn Rd. (Sturbridge Shopping Center) Ice and cupcakes available for purchase.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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• Papa John’s Pizza: Montgomery & Prattville. All locations offer discounts on pizzas on large orders. Call for details. • Pizza Hut: 265.6000. Offered at all Montgomery locations as well as Prattville, Wetumpka and Clanton. Costs vary. Call for details.

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Other: Many local restaurants will treat the birthday person to a free dessert and possibly sing Happy Birthday. Call your favorite restaurant for details.

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PLACES TO PARTY - SKATING

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Eastdale Mall Ice Palace

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277.2088. 10 or more people. Free birthday invitations and reserved table outside the rink. You bring cake and everything you need. Please call for pricing.

the phone?

Looney’s Skating Rink

281.1032, 3541 McGehee Rd. Wide variety of party packages for all different ages. Please call for details and pricing. All parties require a non-refundable deposit at booking. You may bring cake, big cookie & ice cream only. Our friendly staff will setup, serve and cleanup your party. Any of the private party packages can be customized to meet your needs. All private party packages include 1-1/2 hour rink rental, invitations, admission, plates, napkins, sporks, cups, drinks during cake serving time, popcorn, and Stuff Shop party favor bags…all you do is bring a cake or big cookie. Pizza Party Packages are also available. www.looneysskate.com

We’re right here. For professional design services, printing, and mailing at

• Wonder World Family Fun Center: 127 North Memorial Drive, Prattville, 365.6600. Lasertag and Rollerskating parties available. Rollerskating, Arcade, Laser Tag, Snack Bar, Inflatables, Birthday Parties. Please call Debbie Brooks for details or visit our website at www. wonderworldfamilyfun.com

reasonable rates, call Beth at 334.281.1315

PLACES TO PARTY - TEA / DRESS-UP Paint and Clay

(334) 819.4450, Karen Kornosky. 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. Canvas parties are now available. Please visit us at our website: www.paintandclaystudio.com.

Smiles Galore

2501 E 5th St. I Montgomery, AL 36107 I 334-281-1315 www.creativeprinting.us.com 67

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Distinguished Young Women Hold Orientation

The Distinguished Young Woman Program of Montgomery County for 2015 is presently recruiting senior girls to participate in a scholarship program designed to reward achievements in five categories. Orientation is on Sunday, August 24, at 2:30 p.m. at Saint James United Methodist Church. Participants must live in Montgomery County and be graduating in 2015. Scholarships are awarded in scholastics, interview, talent, fitness and self-expression. Other scholarship dollars are awarded for “Be Your Best Self Essay,” Spirit Award, Ad Sales, Top Ten, and for 1st and 2nd Runner Up. There are also opportunities for participants with required ACT score and GPA to receive scholarships from Troy University just for participating. This is an excellent opportunity to learn interview and speaking skills while meeting other distinguished young women from schools in the area. Each interested girl needs to 1) fill out a card & mail it back in (located in your counselor’s office or call below), 2) complete the information packet and forms (following all instructions), and 3) register on-line at AJM.org. Be sure to complete the ACT/SAT and have your scores included on your transcript. Required information is included in the packet. For further information, please contact Janet Coggins, President, at dywmontgomery@gmail.com or at (334)549-5515. (photo courtesy of Paul Robertson Photography)

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Adventure Sports II Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Adventure Sports II held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its 25th Anniversary on June 12. The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, along with some of the ambassadors, kicked off the celebration. Attending, along with Mayor Todd Strange, were City Councilmen Arch Lee and Richard Bollinger. The ribbon-cutting launches a new era as Adventure Sports II continues to provide scuba and other aquatic activities in the River Region. Located at 1546 East Ann Street in Montgomery, Adventure Sports II carries a full range of scuba products to meet the needs of the most experienced diver or the newbie. Certification is through Scuba School International (SSI) who for more than 40 years has been the trusted name in the diving world in standards and methodology. Adventure Sports II serves the community offering specialty courses with certified dive instructors and is connected to organizations like Dive Pirates, a nonprofit foundation who has programs to help provide support, training, and dive travel to individuals with disabilities. With a variety of training levels including snorkel, diver and instructor as well as oneon-one swim lessons, lifeguard instructor classes, and pool parties, there is something for everyone. Another feature the scuba shop has offered throughout the years with huge popularity are the travel options. Each year there are scuba diving trips to Pensacola, Panama City and Gulf Shores with wreck dives of the Oriskany and the LuLu, Vortex Springs and Morrison Springs, Bonaire, Roatan and Cozumel. Adventure Sports II is committed to carrying a full line of top quality rental gear, including regulators, tanks, buoyancy compensators and wet suits. “We ensure our gear is safe and worry-free because of our strict maintenance schedule. We won’t let anything leave this store that we wouldn’t dive with ourselves.” The scuba shop offers annual service and inspection for most regulator brands. They also can provide air and nitrox fills, hydrostatic and annual visual testing for SCUBA tanks. Adventure Sports II specializes in prescription lenses for SCUBA masks, custom-cut weight belts, and can order custommade wet suits for a perfect fit or exact color coordination. “As scuba divers move into a community, we are proud to offer the River Region a facility that can both introduce the sport and keep seasoned scuba divers enjoying the areas our state has to offer.” Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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Docarmo’s Students Compete in Georgia

Seven Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center students participated in the Georgia Games Annual Tournament in Kennesaw, which is one of the largest tournaments in the Southeast. Kahle Cox, Alexis Lochte, Louis Bent, Benan Gaston, Rylan Oberloh and Micahi Gilchrist all came away with Gold medals in Forms competition while Kelsie Thomas earned a Silver. In addition, Cox, Bent, Gilchrist and Kelsie Thomas all won Gold Medals in sparring while Oberloh won a Silver Medal and Gaston and Lochte both won Bronze Medals. Master Anne Docarmo, head coach of the Docarmo’s Team, said several of the students were first-timers to tournaments. Docarmo will be the host for the third year in a row of the Alabama Sports Festival taekwondo portion of the games. The event has increased in size each year under her direction. The State Games currently use matted rings with electronic scoring systems similar to those used at national, international and Olympic events.

A L A B A M A

DA N C E T H E A T

stars on the riverfront!

Sunday, August 3 & Monday, August 4, 2014 H 7:30pm Riverwalk Amphitheater H Free Admission H 241-2590

Performance Sponsors

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City of Montgomery This performance is made possible by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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Visit My History Day At Archives

On Saturday, July 12, visit the Alabama Department of Archives and History from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for My History Day. Become immersed and inspired by your own unique history at this FREE family-friendly event. Activities for all ages will focus on collecting and preserving your family’s story. Stations found throughout the building will offer fun activities, demonstrations, and information about genealogy, creating and preserving scrapbooks, personal records preservation, and conducting oral histories. Archives staff will be on-hand so visitors can ask specific questions about preserving and caring for their personal documents and family heirlooms. Children will enjoy a Museum of Alabama Gallery Hunt and lots of interactive, hands-on activities. No pre-registration required. For more info, call 242-4364 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov. 69

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A Page in a Book

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by Gerry Paige Smith

Picture a New Attitude When things in our lives trigger a funk, a fit of pique or simply a sulk, it’s hard for all of us to reassess, decompress and move past a bad mood. Kids are especially sensitive to the moments that set them off. The lost toy, the change in plans, the dropped ice cream – a child’s day is filled with moments that can ignite a turn for the worse. Children are not typically well-equipped with the patience and clarity to work through the issue that’s troubling them. And the result is often melt-downs, tantrums or a general mad-at-the-world posture that friends and family simply have to endure until it passes. The following titles explore in lighthearted ways the things that can spark a bad mood along with suggestions and solutions that may help kids power through the mad moments and bounce back with a new attitude!

No Fits, Nilson!

by Zachariah Ohora (Dial / Penguin) Amelia and Nilson do everything together. Every moment in their day is shared and it’s usually a fun adventure …until something goes wrong. The accidental bump that destroys his block tower, the shoes that don’t fit, or waiting in the long line at the post office can all trigger a raging fit from Nilson. Luckily, Amelia and her mother are really good at talking Nilson through his frustrations, providing distractions and reminding him of the benefits of being patient. Their mantra “No fits, Nilson!” lowers the temperature and helps him control his anger. But when one final obstacle emerges to disappoint Amelia, Nilson will have to step in with a solution that calms Amelia down before she has her own fit. With a calming voice (and a final page that will delight readers), “No Fits, Nilson!” offers gentle reminders that frustrations are temporary and patience has big rewards.

It Wasn’t Me!

by Oliver Jeffers (Philomel / Penguin) The Hueys typically get along with each other very well. But when a regular conversation takes a wrong turn, their amiable talk quickly devolves into an argument. Their friend, Gillespie, happens upon the quarrelsome group asking what’s wrong, and he is met with a chorus of “It wasn’t me!”, “He started it!” and more from the Hueys, all disavowing the source of their discontent. Gillespie’s position as an outsider allows him to become the voice of reason as he helps them try to remember the root of their disagreement. As cool heads prevail (and a fascinating distraction appears) the argument falls away as unimportant and the Hueys reconnect through their shared interest. Jeffers’ adorable simply-rendered characters present a subtle and positive message that supports finding a peaceful perspective when tempers flare.

Olive and the Bad Mood

by Tor Freeman (Templar / Candlewick) When Olive’s good mood is ruined by a tumble over her loose shoestring, the chain of events that follow illustrates how a bad mood can become contagious. Cloaked in her anger, Olive stomps past her best friends who each greet her cheerfully. She responds rudely to each friend’s overture, with insults and snarky comments that leave them sinking into moods of their own. Once Olive finally finds something that makes her happy, she snaps out of her funk and returns to share her good fortune with her friends. But now they’ve caught her bad mood and it’s up to Olive to bring them back around. A precious cautionary tale, this title illustrates how a bad attitude can spread, and worse, come back home to roost.

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

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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Local Montgomery Sylvan Learning Offers Tips and Book List to Get Kids Excited About Summer Reading While summer is a break from school, the Sylvan Learning Center of Montgomery doesn’t believe that the time off should also be a break from learning. A recent survey* from Sylvan Learning found that on average, kids spend significantly more of their free time playing outside (30%), playing video games (17%) and watching TV (18%) than reading (12%). Additionally, research has shown that kids should read at least five books over the summer, yet 46 percent of tweens are reading four or fewer books according to their parents. To help parents get kids excited to read this summer, Sylvan Learning of Montgomery has compiled the following summer reading list for tweens in grades four through eight, based on the most popular books on Sylvan’s Book Adventure website (http://www.bookadventure.com). 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Harry Potter Percy Jackson and the Olympians The Hunger Games series Charlotte’s Web Hatchet

helps get their kids excited about reading.

7. Charlie & the Chocolate Factory 8. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing 9. Holes 10. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

* Find out what their friends are reading: Forty-six percent of parents said their child gets interested in reading a book because their friends are reading it. According to parents, the most popular genres among tweens are:

Sylvan Learning of Montgomery also offers the following advice to help parents get their kids excited about reading this summer. * Let Kids Choose: Instead of requiring kids to read the classics over the summer, let them choose a book they are interested in reading. According to parents surveyed, 65 percent said that letting the child choose the book helps get him or her interested in reading it.

• Humor (e.g. Diary of a Wimpy Kid) • Fantasy (e.g. Harry Potter series, Percy Jackson series) • Action Adventure (e.g. Holes, Hatchet) • Science Fiction (e.g. A Wrinkle in Time, 1984) • Books Made Into Movies (e.g. Divergent series, The Giver)

* Rewards Can Work: So many of today’s popular tween books are also movies, and a trip to the movies can be a great reward for finishing a book. Forty percent of parents said watching the movie after the book

For additional information, contact Tank Stewart of Sylvan Learning located in Montgomery at (334) 262-0043, sylvan@ knology.net, or visit http://tutoring.sylvanlearning.com/montgomery.

NEW CAMPS

AUM SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMS

New! Video Game Creation Camp New! An Artist A Day Kinder College Multiplication Made Easy Legos Robotics

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Give them a stage to show off. Habitually ask your child what they think they do well and then have them demonstrate. For my son, it always thrilled him to show us his ability to walk on his hands. Writing a word in cursive? Pouring juice into a glass? They adore showing you what they’ve learned and how strong they’ve grown. Your glowing response will make them feel 10 feet tall and cherished!

It’s ironic. In an uber-connected age where communication with each other is simpler than ever, our hectic work pace, school demands, and over-scheduled activities make it easy to become disconnected with each other. In a compelling book by clinician Michael Ungar, The We Generation: Raising Socially Responsible Kids (2009), the great need for our children to feel noticed and loved in order to embrace “we” instead of simply “me” is explored. Ungar contends it is unfortunate that sometimes parents attempt to connect with their children via expensive toys, becoming too permissive, or overprotecting them. However, the key to connection is to offer opportunities for compassion because as Ungar writes, “Give a child a chance to connect, and she will.” The following ideas to strengthen your family connection come from ideas inspired by Ungar’s book, my professional counseling experience, and my personal parenting history. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Leave work behind. This is a challenging task for all of us, but take as much family vacation as your vocation allows. The opportunities which will spring from time away from the grind relaxing with your children are GOLD and add up to memories for a lifetime. No one at the end of their life wishes they had just taken less vacations.

Eat three together. Set a new rule about family meals together: everybody at the dinner table at least three times a week. It’s not always realistic to squeeze in three weeknight dinners, so think about Saturday breakfasts, Sunday brunches, or Wednesday late night cookies and milk. At our house, we have Italian Friday 72

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Nights where we are often joined by a slew of their friends. Have you seen all the research results about the emotionally healthy benefits of eating together? Prioritize it. It’s a simple gesture that packs a profound punch.

Time out. Give them your time. So often we underestimate how much our kids want to spend moments with us together. If you have teen children, you may know too well what I am describing. It’s important to carve out family time as often as possible in spite of messages that their friends have passed you up on the influence scale.

Hear their highs and lows. Implement this best/worst exercise into every meal-time conversation. It’s easy. Ask your child to identify their best and worst daily moments. Don’t use this time to lecture if their ‘worst’ happens to be failing an exam. Instead, open your heart and connect with the feelings they are expressing. Share their joy! Cry with them over disappointments. If you haven’t tried this, you may be surprised at how much you’ll learn about your kids’ inner lives.

Form a team. Rally your children to help with a project. Whether it is helping an elderly neighbor with gardening, painting the family room, volunteering at church, or organizing the garage, join forces and see that the fruits of your labor extend way beyond an afternoon of hard work.

Write love notes. Words are powerful and sometimes easier to express on paper. Fill the page with what you appreciate, your wishes and hopes, and how your children are so full of potential. Leave the note on their pillow, and know it will touch them deeply whether they mention the note or not. Connecting with your child is important not only for strengthening your family bond, but for helping them develop empathy and a healthier outlook. mp Michele Ranard is passionate about helping families live healthier lives. She is a mom to teenagers, a professional counselor, and a blogger at hellolovelystudo.com.

F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADITIO NAL W O RSH IP 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 A M SUNDAY SCH O O L 9: 45 AM TH E W ELL 11: 00 AM

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Armory Boys’ Gymnastics Compete in State & Region

ADT Dancers Continue To Win Awards

Alabama Dance Theatre dancers and students continue to win acceptance, scholarships, and awards at some of the nation’s most selective dance institutions and festivals. ADT is proud to announce that the following dancers have received acceptance and/or scholarships to the following programs: ACES 1st place Senior high: Angelica Burgher; and ACES 3rd place Senior high: Safiya Haque; Alabama Ballet: Rebekah Norwood, Maya Pegues and Ana Clare Wolfe; Alabama State University: Ke’Yana Robinson; American Ballet Theatre: Maya Pegues and Ana Clare Wolfe; Atlanta Ballet: Aloria Adams; Boston Ballet: Taylor Jordan and Jessica Russell; Charlotte Ballet Academy: Jessica Russell; GloAtlanta: Safiya Haque; Grebel Dance: Ana Clare Wolfe; Huntsville Ballet: Maya Pegues; Inwood Dance Company: Angelica Burgher; Joffrey Ballet: Anna Gentry and Haley Gentry; Metropolitan Ballet: Taylor Jordan; Oklahoma City Ballet: Anna Gentry and Haley Gentry; Point Park: Anna Gentry and Haley Gentry; South Carolina Dance Conservatory: Aariona Boswell, Amari Boswell, Angelica Burgher, Anna Gentry, Haley Gentry, Safiya Haque, Taylor Jordan, Ke’Yana Robinson, Jessica Russell and Rebekah Norwood. ADT is located at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue. Summer classes are being held through July 18. To register for summer classes, call 241-2590. Don’t miss ADT’s FREE summer performances of “Stars on the Riverfront” August 3 & 4. For more information, visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com.

Got news?

Send us your community or organization news by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

On March 14 and 15, the Armory Athletics Boys’ Teams competed at the 2014 Alabama Boys’ State Meet in Huntsville. Level 5 boys’ team and Level 8 boys’ team are both First-Place State Champions! Level 5 had a combined score of 181.400 with teammates Logan Borth, Patrick Cain, Tug Hall and Sean Moffett. Level 8 had a combined score of 205.200 with teammates Jim Ellis, Ethan Reed and Erik Tsekouras. Hall is a Level 5 State Champion in the 7-8 year old age division. He placed first on floor with a score of 8.2, first on pommel horse with an 8.0, first on rings with a 9.7, first on vault with a 9.3, first on parallel bars with a 9.2, first on high bars with an 8.9, and an all-around score of 54.1. Moffett is a Level 5 State Champion in the 9-10 year old age division. He placed fourth on floor with a score of 9.8, second on pommel horse with a 10.5, first on rings with a 10.7, second on vault with a 10.1, first on parallel bars with a 10.3, fourth on high bar with a 9.8, and an all-around score of 61.2. Garrett McDaniel is a Level 6 State Champion in the 11+ age division. He placed first on floor with a score 9.6, fourth on pommel horse with a 9.0, first on rings with a 10.4, fifth on vault with a 9.2, first on parallel bars with a 10.7, first on high bars with a 10.7, and an all-around score of 59.6. Ellis is a Level 8 State Champion in the 13-14 year old age division. He placed first on floor with a score of 13.0, first on pommel horse with a 11.2, third on rings with an 11.7, first on vault with a 12.9, second on parallel bars with an 11.8, first high bars with an 11.3, and an all-around score of 71.90. Bobby Sheppard is a Level 9 State Champion. He placed first on floor with a score of 12.9, second on pommel with a 10.2, first on rings with a 13.0, second on vault with an 11.4, first on parallel bars with a 12.5, first on high bar with an 11.8, and an all-around score of 71.80. April 11-13, Armory Level 5-9 boys traveled to Birmingham to compete in the 2014 USAG Region 8 Men’s Championships. Reed, a Level 8 gymnast, had a first-place win with an all-around score of 66.3500. He placed fifth on his floor routine with a score of 12.1, fourth on pommel horse with an 11.1, sixth on rings with an 11.2, first on vault with a 12.150, 16th on parallel bars with a 9.7, and fifth on high bars with a 10.1. Ellis, also a Level 8 gymnast, had a first-place win with an all-around score of 70.0000. He placed fifth on his floor routine with a score of 12.5, second on pommel horse with an 11.650, first on rings with an 11.6, first on vault with a 12.650, third on Parallel bars with an 11.7, and eighth on high bars with a 9.9. Sheppard, a Level 9 gymnast, had a first-place win with an all-around score of 74.3000. He placed second on his floor routine with a score of 13.1, first on pommel horse with a 12.3, first on rings with a 12.1, first on vault with an 11.9, first on Parallel bars with a 12.850, and first on high bars with a 12.050. Borth, Cain, Moffett, McDaniel, Tsekouras, and Samuel Norwood also qualified and competed at the USAG Region 8 Men’s Championships in Birmingham. Sheppard was awarded Alabama Athlete of the Year. This award is voted on by coaches in the state of Alabama for outstanding sportsmanship and dedication to the sport of Gymnastics. Armory offers classes for children ages 2 and up. We offer tots classes, preschool/ kindergym classes, recreational, and classes for cheer and tumbling. For more information please call us at 241-2789. Fall classes will begin August 4. 74

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Tonya Speed Celebrates 28th Recital with Seniors

Pink & Pearls Girls Host Mothers’ Brunch

Pink and Pearls for Girls hosted a “Muffins for Mom” Mother’s Day Brunch. All mothers and significant female role models were invited to participate in arts and crafts, games, and enjoy homemade muffins made by our very own Pearl Girls. If you would like to become a member today, please call us at 561-5091.

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection celebrated its 28th recital showcasing the eight senior dancers: Frances Speed, Amanda & Wesley Parker, Faith Barringer, Sara Elizabeth Shirley, Kendra Golson, Kezia Moore & Saraia Brooks.

Johnson’s Martial Arts Honors Mothers in May

In honor of Mother’s Day, Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy hosted a Mom’s Day Self-Defense class in which several moms were taught basic self-defense and survival techniques in a very informative and fun session. At the end of the class, all of the moms received their pink belt and a certificate of participation.

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Family Karate Center News

The Family Karate Center students dedicated their Saturdays in June to welcoming new military families arriving in Montgomery for Officers’ Training College. An Open House is also planned for every Saturday in July (even July 4th weekend) to welcome the next set of military families coming in. Master Carole Smith had a “Welcome to Montgomery” package for each family, including information about Montgomery’s only 2-4 year old program that features many classes only taught at the Family Karate Center. Master Smith’s husband has served in the Air Force for 20 years, and she found out that many of these new families were stationed in some of the same places where he was. The 2-4 year old MOMMY AND ME program was well received, as well as the free fitness center in the school for ALL parents and grandparents. Free birthday party packages are given away for new military families as well as free lessons and new family uniforms. Call The Family Karate Center TODAY at 220-9319 or 277-4911. The Family Karate Center is conveniently located in the Peppertree Shopping Center at 8159 Vaughn Rd. in Montgomery. Shown is Zoe, a 3-year-old Tiger in Master Smith’s Mommy and Me Little Tiger Program.

Dirtbags Hit 10 Homeruns For Runner-up in Tourney

The Dirtbags used power at the plate to place second at the 12U AAA Super NIT in Fultondale May 17-18. In game 1, the Dirtbags rode the arms of Cam Holmes and Trey Jones in a shutout win over Panthers Baseball (Pelham) 9-0. Holmes struck out three and did not allow a hit in two innings of work. Jones struck out two and only allowed one hit in two innings. Copeland Hilyer and Easton Wilcoxson led the Dirtbags at the plate with two hits apiece. John Siary drove in three runs and Hilyer drove across two. After pool play the Dirtbags edged out the Panthers 9-8. Campbell Cleveland struck out three in one inning and Siary struck out three in two innings pitched to silence the Panthers bats. Cleveland went 2-for-3 with a three-run homerun and five RBI to pace the Dirtbags at the plate. Cleveland hit a three-run homerun in the 4th inning to put the Dirtbags ahead for good. In the quarterfinals the Dirtbags took on Rough Riders Baseball from Tuscaloosa. Zak Haynes hit a first pitch homerun to pace the Dirtbags in a 12-2 victory. Cleveland also hit a first inning homerun. Siary threw two innings and allowed only one hit. Gage Cumbie finished the game by throwing two innings and striking out three. He only allowed two hits. Cumbie also contributed at the plate with a grand slam. Haynes was 2 for 2 at the plate with two home runs. Holmes had two hits including a homerun. Siary had two hits. In the semifinals the Dirtbags took on Central Alabama Knights from Auburn. Once again Haynes started the game with a leadoff homerun. Siary hit a three-run homerun in the 3rd inning. Cleveland and Holmes hit home runs in the 5th inning in which the Dirtbags scored five runs to break the game open in route to a 9-1 win. Jones was 2-for-3 in the game. Payne Griffin contributed with a laser line drive off the fence. Cumbie threw 2 2/3 innings striking out one and allowing only one hit. Cleveland threw two innings striking out two. In the championship game the Dirtbags lost to the West Florida Wahoos from Pensacola, Florida. The Dirtbags record for their 12u year is 23-12. The Dirtbags have won or finished as runner-up in six of the ten tournaments they entered in their 12U year. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Wetumpka Cub Scouts Hold Raingutter Regatta

Wetumpka Cub Scout Pack 50 hosted its first Raingutter Regatta on May 17. The scouts decorated and raced balsa wood sailboats using straws to blow their boats down the track. First Place was awarded to JT Lamberth from Wetumpka. Following the boat races, the pack hosted a crossover ceremony. During the ceremony each boy in the pack crossed over into the next den, moving forward on the Cub Scout Trail.

JT Lamberth is congratulated above by Cubmaster Dennis Unger.

Former Cubmaster Keith Womack, center, watches as Batman races Superman to the finish line. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing

Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Grandma’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. However, the Hands-On Gallery and Grandma’s Attic will temporarily close for 2nd floor hallway renovations this summer. The Museum will remain closed until Monday, August 19. You can visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. Stay tuned in for upcoming events from the Archives, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama. gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac. org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For info, call 240-4333. Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with wellknown artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters. Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and communitybased organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@bellsouth.net. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 4579254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization

located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 3494235 or visit www.chomonline.org. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating

July 2014 field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201

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

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Workshops and Parties for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 2421861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www. blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown. com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www. touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/ person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and

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Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com River Region Contra Dancing Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and families are welcome. All levels of experience – including no experience. Dancing is on 1st & 3rd Fridays at 7 p.m. at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 5260 Vaughn Road. For more info, visit www.riverregioncontradance.com or call Katherine Thomas at 334-361-6572. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required

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parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Museum galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next class is July 9. Call 240-4365 or visit www. mmfa.org for more info.

Classes

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education.Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. Content includes: Traffic Light Eating, Brainy Breakfasts, the Truth about Fats, Powering up with Protein and Play, and more! The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the

health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities, and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more information, contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. Baptist Medical Center East. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Math & Science for Preschoolers Classes for “3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science)” are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children ages 3-5 will learn math and science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. long and $8/week. Join us at 1585 E Main St, Prattville (next to Pri-Med), to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook for times. To register or for more info, contact Susan Trombley at 321blasttimes@outlook.com or (334) 380-1879. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Fun, interactive 3-week series of nutrition classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; Optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; Transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more information contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook - www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Provides expectant mothers information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule.

Services

American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East,

Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/ patients_volunteers.html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.

Support Groups

Adoption Support

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

Cancer Support

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

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

Divorce Support

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

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 284-2721. We will also collect Toys for Tots for anyone interested in participating. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. Grief Recovery After Suicide, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., first Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Room 3102. This group is open to family members and friends who have lost a loved one as the result of suicide. Group offers a confidential environment in which to receive support, hope and information. Contact Rev. Susan Beeson, 272-8622. Grief Share, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. HOM provides quality palliative care to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in our community affected by terminal illness; maintains the highest ethical standards; and educates the community about the hospice concept and end-of-life issues. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen. org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Our purpose is to glorify God as we serve Him in comforting and encouraging each other in our grief and growth.

Homeschool Support

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com

July 2014 Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. Each participant needs to bring a sack lunch. On the first Thursday of each month, the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 beginning at 10:30 a.m. For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance, Room 3101 at Frazer UMC, 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 2728622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 201-9638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChase-NE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group will begin meeting on May 12 from 6:30-7:45 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group will meet on second Mondays of each month. Meetings are open to anyone who is interested in issues concerning mental health. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for directions/ details. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 3249568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 3rd Tuesdays from 6:30-8 p.m. in room 3104. This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For more info, call 2728622.

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Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@ yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org. Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Parent Support

Birth Stories (Past, Present, Future) This group aims to bring together women and their community to realize the shared experience of childbirth of the past, present and future. It is a great time to ask other moms about cloth diapering, breast milk or formula, exclusive pumping, making your own baby food, etc. We also have a featured discussion each month. July will be “Your Best Birth Plan.” We meet the 3rd Saturday of every month unless it falls on a holiday weekend. Then the meeting is the following Saturday. We meet at 4D Baby Bumps located at 510 Cotton Gin Road in Montgomery at 4 p.m. For more information, contact Naomi Voss at (334) 467-9363 or www. diamonddoulaservice.org/ D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his daughter Erin. It gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. All fathers in the River Region are invited to bring their daughters to the library to read, laugh and have fun. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more information, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596.

La Leche League of Montgomery, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (569-1500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_heather@yahoo.com). Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http://montgomerymultiplesclub. org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, are you looking for a good excuse to get out of the house? MOPS is a great opportunity to hone your mothering skills, meet new friends, and learn new things while deepening your relationship with God. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are 1st and 3rd Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (Oct. 3 & 17) Call Kristi Gay at (334) 233-8989 or visit www.montgomeryfbc. org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have

we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For info, e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

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

Single Parents Support

Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo. com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information.

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Calendar/Support Groups Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo. com. Special Needs Skate 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more information, contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Teens/Families Support

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

This Month Tuesday, July 1

Fashion Camp Registration at Shoppes at EastChase For girls ages 5-12 years old. At the one-day camps, little fashionistas will learn how to accessorize, model and enter-

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

tain, as well as learn how to live healthy and how to develop their own personal style. Participating retailers include: Claire’s, Gap Kids, Justice for Girls, Earth Fare Organic Grocer, Dillard’s, Anthony Vince Nail Spa, Versona Accessories, Bath and Body Works and PeachMac. Registration is $75 and includes lunch, $25 gift card to The Shoppes at EastChase, a special gift and an official graduation certificate. There are several camp dates to choose from in June and July for ages 5-8, as well as for ages 9-12. Fashion Camp dates include: age 5-8: July 14, 15, 21 & 22; age 9-12: July 16, 17, 23 & 24. Online registration is available. Parents can also stop by Guest Services to register their child. For more info, contact Vickie at 279-6046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com. Upward Flag Football and Cheerleading Registration at Frazer UMC -- Ends August 1 or When Leagues Fill Up Frazer offers Upward Flag Football and Cheerleading for the fall through our Activities Ministry for boys and girls age 5* through 6th grade. Play is structured to emphasize Christian character, sportsmanship and team work, giving every player an opportunity to participate. *Must be 5 by Sept. 1, 2014. Evaluations will be Aug. 4 at 5:30 p.m. (grades 1-2) or Aug. 5 (grades 3-6); evaluations not required for K5. Practice will be one evening per week starting August 18 (grades 1-2 Monday, grades 3-4 Tuesday, grades 5-6 Thursday; K5 Friday); games will be on Saturday mornings Sept. 6-Oct. 25. Cost is $85 per child. Space is limited so register early. Come by the Frazer Activity Center (far East side of campus) to register, open Mon.-Thu. 7-8 and Fri. 7-5. Call (334) 495-6459 for more info. Free Guided Tours Offered Daily at The Museum of Alabama -- Through August 30 These hour-long tours begin at 1 p.m., Monday-Saturday. No pre-registration is required. Join one of our experienced docents as they guide you through Alabama’s past, highlighting incredible artifacts, images, and documents and answering your questions along the way. The Museum also provides interactive educational resources for children and families in the Hands-On Gallery and Grandma’s Attic. The Museum of Alabama is located at the Alabama Department of Archives and History in downtown Montgomery, across the street from the State Capitol. The museum is open Monday -Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Admission is always FREE! For more information, call (334) 242-4364 or visit www. museum.alabama.gov. Prattville Autauga Tuesday Farmers Market Tuesdays through September 23 3-6 p.m. This additional market day will be held in the parking lot of Dollar Tree and the old Office Depot location at 1922 Cobbs Ford Road. Local growers will bring their fruits, vegetables, honey and more to this additional market day in Prattville. For more information about the Prattville Autauga Farmers Market, contact the Special Events office at 334/595-0854.

Wednesday, July 2

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. The Capital City Master Gardener Association provides a monthly educational series called “Lunch and Learn,” on a variety of gardening topics in a classroom setting. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided.

Friday, July 4

The Color Run Riverfront Park in downtown Montgomery. The start-line window will open at 8 a.m. with waves going every few minutes! The Color Run, also known as the Happiest 5k on the Planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates health, happiness and individuality. It is an untimed race in which thousands of participants are doused from head to toe in different colors at each kilometer. The only rules are to wear white at the start line and finish covered in color! The fun continues after Color Runners complete the race

July 2014 with an unforgettable Finish Festival. This larger-than-life party is equipped with music, dancing and massive color throws, which create millions of vivid color combinations. Every registered Color Runner in 2014 gets an official Color Run Race Kit including a custom T-shirt, tricolor headband, shoulder sling bag, tattoos and more! Teams must have at least 4 members with a registration cost of $30. Individual registration is $35. For more information on the Color Run, visit http://thecolorrun.com/montgomery/. Wind Creek Hospitality Presents Fourth of July Picnic on the River Sponsored By Capitol Hyundai and WSFA. 5 p.m. – Dreamland Rib Eating competition sponsored by Bama Budweiser and Alabama Power – $500 cash prize; 6 p.m. – King Bee; and 7:15 p.m. – Federal Expressions. Immediately following Biscuits Game, largest July 4th fireworks show to date that will light the skies for the finale of our Fourth of July Celebration! Food Vendors, Kids Inflatables. Picnics and Coolers are allowed but no alcoholic beverages. Visit www.montgomeryal.gov. Prattville 4th of July Parade Downtown Prattville. The parade will begin at 9 a.m. at the Autauga County Courthouse and will end at Stanley-Jensen Stadium. Other events included in the 4th of July festivities will be the annual Cardboard Boat Races at Pratt Pool, sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department, and the Lions Club annual fundraiser Bar-B-Q and Camp Stew Sale, held at Pratt Park at 10 a.m. The annual fireworks presentation will be held at Stanley Jensen Stadium. Gates open at 6 p.m. with live entertainment and a patriotic program. Fireworks begin at dark. Admission is FREE and the public is encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. NO pets or glass containers will be allowed on the field. For more info, call the City of Prattville’s Special Events Office at (334) 595-0854 or the Parks and Rec Department at 334-595-0800. Pike Road Summerfest Fun for all ages, great food, live music and a spectacular firework show! Gates open at 4:30 p.m. and the fun starts at 5! Tickets are just $10 per vehicle, so bring the whole family! For more information, visit www.pikeroad.us/ or call Town Hall at (334) 272-9883. Wetumpka’s 4th of July Celebration Gold Star Park, 6-9 p.m. Band: Wishbone. Fireworks over the Coosa River at 9 p.m. sponsored by Wind Creek Wetumpka.

Saturday, July 5

AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community on Saturdays this spring. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Jasmine Hill Gardens & Museum Wetumpka. Open Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays through June: noon-5 p.m. As spring progresses, tulips will enhance many of the flower beds along with seasonal annuals. African daisies, nasturtiums, neon dianthus, various pansy varieties, digitalis, ornamental cabbage, delphinium, calendula, snapdragons and larkspur will highlight the spring beds. For more info, visit www.jasminehill.org. Saturday Sunset DJ, Circus and Music Series at Callaway Gardens – Saturdays through Sept. 1 Saturday nights will kick off at 5 p.m. with an onsite DJ. The following musicians take the stage at 7 p.m. with a performance by the FSU Flying High Circus during intermission: (July 5) Wicked Dixie and The Regulars; (July 12) Sons-N-Britches; (July 19) Final Answer; (July 26) Wicked Dixie; and (August 2) Aces and 8’s. For more details on the artists, visit www.callawaygardens.com/sunsetmusicseries. Admission for these special nights is $5 per adult; $2.50 per child age 6 to 12 and free for children 5 and younger. For more info, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (800-225-5292) or visit www.callawaygardens.com. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is “Build a Bug House.” Come learn how to build a bug house and discover the outdoors. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The

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Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free. EastChase Farmer’s Market -- Saturdays through August 30 7 a.m.-noon. Shoppers will continue to find local items such as organic meats and milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads, fruit pastries birdhouses and nursery plants. For more info, call (334) 279-6046. Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Saturdays Through September 28 New location and new management. “In the grove” located on Doster Road across from Gillespie Center (332 Doster Road). 7 a.m.-noon. Featuring locally grown fruits, vegetables, plants, honey and more, with special features, music, art and lots of fun every Saturday. Call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Sunday, July 6

Special Needs Skate -- Also July 20 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd.All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com. The Family Table -- Sundays Through July 20 5-7 p.m. Frazer UMC Room 8114 (Activity Center). Enjoy summertime fun and fellowship with other families, and learn God’s Word from a fresh perspective. Using a multi-level approach, we’ll explore the great stories of the Bible in a way that engages the attention of a child, while still challenging the teens and adults, and creates opportunities for discussion between all ages. Starting at 5 p.m., bring a brown bag dinner from home (or stop by the drive-through), and enjoy fellowship time with other families around games, art projects, and other unstructured activities. We may even plan some covered dish suppers a couple of nights. Around 6 p.m. we’ll move into a Bible story experience, illustrated through video and interactive elements, along with hands-on activities, finishing up with a family discussion and prayer time. Teaching will be led by Ken and Emily Roach. Designed for parents, guardians or grandparents with children who are kindergarten graduates and up. We even welcome teens! Need childcare for your preschoolers? Contact Ken Roach at 495-6328 or ken@frazerumc.org for details. Kids Day at the Montgomery Biscuits Also July 20 & 27 Riverwalk Stadium at 5:35 p.m. Kids Play Catch on the Field & Run the Bases! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball. com.

Monday, July 7

Alabama News Network Presents Movies Monday Mondays Through July 28 Every Monday in July bring the family down to Riverfront Park to enjoy a movie at the amphitheater! Grab your blankets and chairs and pick your spot in the grass to enjoy a kid-friendly movie shown on our jumbo screen. Bring your own snacks or purchase from our vendors. Movies begin at dusk. Coolers are permitted but no alcohol. Movie Schedule: July 7- “Frozen”; July 14- “Coraline”; July 21- “Monsters University”; and July 28- “Mirror Mirror.”

Tuesday, July 8

VEG OUT Montgomery 7-9 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead community. Look for a big red barn! For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth. org or visit www.facebook.com/VegOutMontgomery. IHOP Celebrates its 56th Birthday From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., participating restaurants plan to give away a 56-cent short stack of their famous buttermilk pancakes to mark the special occasion. The original cost of an IHOP short stack when the restaurant was founded in 1958 was 60 cents! To find an IHOP restaurant near you, visit www.IHOP.com. You can also follow IHOP on Facebook and Twitter. Dollar Dog Tuesday at the Montgomery Biscuits Also July 29 Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. $1 hot dogs! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

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Calendar/Support Groups Sizzling Summer Studios at Montgomery Museum of Fine Art -- Also July 10, 29 & 31 2:30-3:30 p.m. Create a different art project each day, in connection with art on view in the Museum. Explore a variety of art media, including painting with tempera, watercolors and acrylics; collage, printmaking, modeling with clay and more! Cost: $5 members/$10 non-members for each class OR $15 members/$30 non-members for the series of four classes. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333. The Little Mermaid at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre -Through July 13 In a magical kingdom fathoms below, we meet Ariel, the little mermaid who is tired of flipping her fins and longs to be a part of the fascinating world on dry land. Joining her are Sebastian, Ariel’s crabby sidekick; Ursula, the evil sea witch; Triton, King of the Sea and the handsome and human Prince Eric. Based on the Disney animated film and hit Broadway musical, The Little Mermaid is making its Atlanta debut at the Fox Theatre. Visit www.foxtheatre.org or call (404) 881-2100 for tickets. Montgomery Youth Fitness Challenge --Through July 31 Montgomery area children are invited to participate in this program designed to teach children about healthy exercise habits while having fun. Children entering 4th-8th grade will work with experts to experience various types of physical exercise; be taught about injury prevention; learn proper ways to develop strength, endurance and stamina; find out how to fuel their body for performance; learn effective and efficient training methods; and participate in fitness challenges to earn prizes. The four-week session is July 8-31. Participants will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-10 a.m. at Ida Belle Young Park. For more information or to register, visit Jackson.org/events. Sponsors include Jackson Hospital, Rehab Associates, Irontribe Fitness, Fleet Feet Sports and Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School.

Thursday, July 10

Millbrook Community Players Present Grease Through July 12; also 17-19 and 24-26 @ 7:30 p.m. and July 20 @ 2 p.m. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. Head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive the high romance of their “Summer Nights” as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such songs as “Greased Lightnin’,” “It’s Raining on Prom Night” and “Alone at the Drive-In Movie.” For tickets or more info, visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call 782-7317. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream -- Through August 2 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $25 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $20. Reservations must be paid in advance. To make reservations or for more information, call 877-840-0457 or visit http://www. ticketforce.com/.

Friday, July 11

Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also July 25 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho. com. 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/1374454692792 666/?source=1 Fabulous Fridays at Callaway Gardens – Fridays through August 22 Music, Circus & Movies on the Beach. From 5-8 p.m., the Callaway Gardens Farmers Market will feature locally sourced vegetables, fresh breads, meats, crafts and more. Beginning at 7 p.m., live music will entertain guests prior to the “Movies on the Beach.” Guests will enjoy these familyfriendly movies: (July 11) Ice Age: Continental Drift; (July 18) Brave; and (July 25) Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters. Through August 1, Friday nights will include performances by the famous FSU Flying High Circus at 8 p.m. prior to the movie. Admission for these special nights is $5 per adult; $2.50 per child age 6 to 12 and free for children 5 and younger. For more info, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (800-2255292) or visit www.callawaygardens.com.

Saturday, July 12

Second Saturday Events Riverfront Park. Activities are held beginning at 2 p.m. The fun includes live entertainment, games for all ages (bocce ball and more!), food vendors and adult libations at the SandBAR at the Silos. $1 Admission, 12 and Under Free. No Outside Food, Beverage or Coolers. Visit www. funinmontgomery.com or call (334) 625-2100. Eastdale Mall Family Fun Nights -- Saturdays through August 2 5-7 p.m. Each week, free activities and entertainment will be featured inside the Centre Court. There will also be special discounts including free carousel rides and ice skating for children 10 and under. Partners include such organizations as the Montgomery Biscuits, the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and Abrakadoodle. Members of the Eastdale Mall Teen Team help with each week’s events. For more information, call the Eastdale Mall Marketing office at (334) 277-7380 or visit eastdale-mall.com. “My History Day” at the Alabama Dept. of Archives & History 10 a.m-3 p.m. Become immersed and inspired by your own unique history at this family-friendly event. Activities for all ages will focus on collecting and preserving your family’s story. “My History Day” is a FREE event. No pre-registration is required. The Alabama Department of Archives and History is located in downtown Montgomery, across the street from the State Capitol. For more information, call (334) 242-4364 and visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic 10 a.m. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is building “Turbo” with pullback motor. Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. Toulouse Fest in Wetumpka 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sponsored by the Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park and the Friends of the Forts/Fort Toulouse Foundation.

July 2014 Toulouse Fest 2014 is an art and music festival designed to bring visitors to the park during the summer months and to serve as a fundraising event. Visitors are encouraged to spend a day in the park and enjoy the creative offerings of local artists and musicians. Bring chairs, blankets and the whole family! Boy Scout Troop 50 will sell food and drinks throughout the day. Interested arts & crafts vendors and musicians should register no later than Monday, July 7. Please call the park at (334) 567-3002 or send an email to ove. jensenahc@gmail.com to request registration forms. There is a $10 registration fee for Arts & Crafts vendors with all proceeds donated to the Friends of the Forts/Fort Toulouse Foundation. Admission is $4 per adult and $2 per child (6-18 years old). Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Preregistration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/ events to register or for more info. Museum Of Alabama Offers Free, Themed Tours On Second Saturdays Beginning July 12 1 p.m. Led by expert staff members, these tours will focus on a wide variety of Alabama history topics. This is a unique opportunity for visitors to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of Alabama’s story through the museum’s Smithsonian-quality exhibitions. July 12 will focus on “Small Town Alabama,” with John Hardin, Museum Content Coordinator. Explore life in Alabama’s small towns through the centuries in this tour of the museum’s dioramas and displays. No pre-registration for tours is required. The Museum of Alabama is located at the Alabama Department of Archives and History in downtown Montgomery, across the street from the State Capitol. The Archives and the Museum are open Monday-Saturday, 8:30-4:30. Admission is always free. For more info, call 242-4364 or visit www.museum.alabama.gov.

Tuesday, July 15

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Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Mary Poppins -- Through August 3 Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins showcases some of the most memorable songs ever sung on the silver screen or stage including “Chim Chim Cheree,” “Jolly Holiday,” “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!” Mary Poppins features original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman and book by Julian Fellowes. Additional music is provided by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. Visit www. asf.net or call 271-5353 for tickets.

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Thursday, July 17

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Wednesday, July 16

Capri Classics Presents High Noon 7:30 p.m. The Steven Spielberg classic featuring Harrison Ford. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org. Martina McBride at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre 8 p.m. Martina McBride has sold more than 18 million albums, which have included twenty Top 10 singles and six number-one hits. She has earned more than 15 major music awards, including four wins for “Female Vocalist of the Year” from the Country Music Association and three wins for “Top Female Vocalist” from the Academy of Country Music. Tickets are on sale beginning at $40. Call 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org.

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ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “Civil War Mobile,” presented by Lonnie Burnett. Call 353-4726 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov.

Friday, July 18

Freebie Friday at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 7:05 p.m. 2-for-1 Food. Hot Dogs, Burgers, Biscuits, Popcorn, Sodas & more are Buy 1, Get 1 FREE! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com. YMCA’s Bell Road Goodtimes Branch Hosts Parents’ Night Out 2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery. 6-10 p.m. Children ages 6 to 12 years of age will enjoy food, fun, games, swimming, and more. Fees are $15 per child for members and $20 per child for non-members. Please bring a swimsuit, towel, and a desire for fun and excitement. For more information, contact Maryann Johnson-Pitts, Teen Coordinator, at (334) 279-8666. Please register by July 11.

Saturday, July 19

Third Annual Race For Hope in Pike Road Benefiting Cole’s House and Children’s Hope. This year’s event will begin and end at Pike Road Founders Station (old Town Hall). The race offers a certified half marathon route, a 5K option and a superhero-themed one-mile fun run. All ages are invited to participate and you can register by visiting https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/pikeroad/RaceforHope. Star Wars Night at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 6:35 p.m. After the game, stick around for MAX Fireworks Spectacular! For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com. Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music & Arts Festival 2-10 p.m. Gold Star Park. Free admission to this event featuring music, arts, Kids’ Zone, barbecue and more. Sponsored by First Community Bank, Creek Casino Wetumpka, Brighthouse and Signs in Seconds. Visit www.riverandblues.net. GO Hike at the Alabama Nature Center Through July 20 During any ANC General Public Weekend, you can enjoy hiking five miles of scenic ANC trails while learning about the fascinating natural history of central Alabama. From ponds and creeks to forests and fields, you can always find some kind of new life waiting around the next trail bend. You can even add to the outdoor experience with a tasty picnic under or around the ANC pavilion. Open to the public every third weekend: Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. For more info about the Alabama Nature Center or the Alabama Wildlife Federation, call (334) 285-4550. Prattville’s Gigantic Flea Market 6 a.m.-noon. Doster Center. Visit www.prattvilleal.gov/. Animal Enrichment Day at the Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Discover new facts on some animals that may be your favorite. Enjoy observing the animals having a good time with their treats. Admission charged. For more info, call 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com

Sunday, July 20

Crafty Crafters Festival in the Park 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Ida Belle Young Park, Vaughn Road in Montgomery. Free public admission. Artists, crafters, food vendors, Kids Zone and music. Contact: LaMeEl Doss at (334) 414-1852 or http://www.IamACrafter.com. Application deadline is July 5.

Monday, July 21

Alabama Dance Theatre Hosts its Annual Summer Dance Seminar -- Through August 4 Intermediate and Advanced dancers are eligible for this two-week intensive seminar which features classical ballet, modern, and jazz classes taught by a nationally recognized guest faculty. Featuring former American Ballet Theatre Principal and current Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Ballet Mistress Marianna Tcherkassky, who was recognized

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Calendar/Support Groups as one of the World’s leading ballerina’s, along with the former American Ballet Theatre Soloist, Shawn Black and former Alabama Dance Theatre dancer Ashley McQueen. The Summer Dance Seminar culminates with two free performances of “Stars on the Riverfront” that will feature a unique array of classical and contemporary works. Admission is free. Performances are Sunday, August 3, and Monday, August 4, at 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. For more information call (334) 241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Presents the Missoula Children’s Theatre Camp -- Through July 26 Prattville Cultural Arts Center, 203 W. 4th Street. Grades K-12. Limited space available; registration required. $50. Call Special Events Office at (334) 595-0854 or visit www. prattvilleal.gov/.

Thursday, July 24

The Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. The speaker will be Maggie Stringer, a member of the Capital City Master Gardener Assoc. She will discuss landscaping to enhance the curb appeal of our homes. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, July 21, to deanna.seerden@ yahoo.com or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com. ARTtalk at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Get an up-close look at artists, their work and the creative process in this unique program, designed for area artists as well as those interested in art. Artists bring a work of art to the Museum, show it to other artists and have friendly feedback about their work. Charge is $20 for Museum or Art Guild Members, $35 for non-members. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333 for more info.

Saturday, July 26

Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, Cupcakes by Tish will now host Cupcake Decorating Workshops. Classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com. Eat-a-palooza at the Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium at 6:35 p.m. Ticket & All-You-Can-Eat for only $23! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com. 2nd Annual Alabama Angels Pageant Hunter Hills Church in Prattville. This pageant is for anyone, male or female, of any age, with any kind of physical or mental impairment. Each “angel” will receive his or her own crown, sash, goody bag and t-shirt. The theme for this year’s pageant is, “Kings and Queens: A Royal Ball.” Exciting plans for the day include free hairstyling and makeup application for the girls, and then a horse and carriage ride to the castle entrance. Participation is absolutely free and registration for the pageant can be found at www.angelspageantsystem.com. Because this is a non-profit event, we rely on the community to help make this day happen. Any business or individual interested in sponsoring, volunteering, or donating food or goody bag items to the Alabama Angels Pageant should contact us at alabamaangels@hotmail.com. Find us on Facebook at Alabama Angels Pageant. 9th Back to School Blast Sponsored by Woodland United Methodist Church 8-11 a.m., Woodland UMC, 4428 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road (intersection of Vaughn & Wallahatchie Roads). This event is for all children ages K5-12th grades. Free school

July 2014 supplies will be distributed, including free bookbags (to the first 600 children), and pencils, paper and other supplies. There will also be free health screenings, including blood pressure, diabetes,vision, hearing, & dental screens; fun & giveaways, games & prizes, snacks, free haircuts & much, much more... Everything is FREE! Contact the church office at 272-7230. Crooning for a Cure Fundraiser to support The American Cancer Society and ALS. Held at the Capital City Club, 201 Monroe St. in Montgomery. 5-6:30 p.m. Silent Auction; 5:30-6:30 p.m. Registration, Social Hour/Wine Tasting; and 6:30 p.m. Dinner and Show. Come out and listen to your favorite crooners, emceed by Susan Woody and Patrick Skelton while accompanied by the Montgomery Recreators. $75 per person. For more info, contact Katy Williams at (334) 834-8920 or katherine.williams@ourclub.com. Also visit www.crooningforacure.org or http://community.acsevents. org/site/TR?fr_id=61565&pg=entry. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic 10 a.m. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is building “TurboTaco Truck.” Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. Vicarious Vacations at Old Alabama Town -Saturday mornings Through August 30 OAT Loeb Reception Center. Free admission. Come see the world like you never have, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned seat! Hear experts talk on a variety of exotic locations, and enjoy themed refreshments to help transport you to these amazing cultures. Visit www.oldalabamatown. com or call 240-4500.

Sunday, July 27

Family Game Night at Frazer UMC 5-7 p.m. Board games, video games, ping pong, and open

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Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

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Riverview Reﬁnement, Program, Campﬁres night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

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Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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gym in the Activity Center will make this a great night of fun and games for the whole family. Bring your own favorite board games or G-rated video games if you wish. Free event. No childcare provided; all children must be accompanied by an adult. For more info, contact Laurie Shipp at (334) 495-6335 or lshipp@frazerumc.org

Thursday, July 31

Red Door Theatre Presents Promises -- Through August 3 Downtown Union Springs. Written by Alabama native Joel Williams, Promises tells the story of Joseph, a 67-year-old man who sets out on a journey to fulfill a request made by his dying mother and comes to understand the truth of his own personal history. Letters and artifacts that once belonged to his parents provoke flashback episodes that reveal complex relationships and secrets that were hidden from Joseph for most of his life. His father loved two women--one gave him life, the other raised him as her own. The play deals with love, loss, betrayal, reconciliation and promises, both kept and broken. It is a spell-binding story with a surprising twist at the end! Rated PG-13. Tickets may be obtained by calling (334) 738-8687 or visiting www.reddoortheatre.org.

Friday, August 1

9th Annual Wags & Whiskers Silent Auction Wetumpka Civic Center. Doors open and bidding starts at 6 p.m. All proceeds go to support the Elmore County Humane Shelter. Heavy hors d’ourves buffet catered by WindCreek Casino; Wetumpka Mini Live Auction conducted by High as the Sky Auction House. Fee to enter: $15 individual - $25 Couple. Tickets available at the door and at the Elmore County Humane Shelter, 255 Central Plank Rd. (Hwy 9) Wetumpka. There will be hundreds of items to bid on. Visit http://www.elmorehumane.org/ for more information.

Saturday, August 2

Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is “Build a Mini-Crate Pencil Holder.” In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free. Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org.

Calendar information due by the 15th of each month. Please send to editor@montgomery parents.com. 87

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

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

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

Home Based Business Directory Squeaky Clean

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

Saxon Lawn Service

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

Virtual Assistant

Wilshant Fantasy Events

Social Media Management / Ghostwriter Resume Writer / Personalized Cover Letters Effective Business Letters / ANY Typing Needs Brochures / Newsletters / Researcher / Grant Writer / Multiple Database Management / Calendar Choreographer / Special Events / FUN Excursions / Field Trips P/T Child Care / Pet Care Homeschool Mom / Tutoring (Elementary & Preschool) Email KatieGrimesRotton@Yahoo.com or call 334-467-7042.

Cassie’s English

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

Piano Teacher

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

Tutor, Proofreader, Typist and Writer Cassie Rogers (662) 380-6000 cassiesenglish@yahoo.com

B.E.C.T. Services

Specializing in one of a kind events: Weddings, birthday parties, children’s character parties, baby showers, bridal showers, teas, bridesmaid luncheons, family reunions, and holiday parties. Contact Laura Collins at 334-294-9809. Email wilshant@aol.com and visit www.wilshantfantasyevents.com.

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

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BULLDOG CARPET CLEANING We handle all your floor cleaning needs! • Commercial/residential • Pet odor removal • Floor tile cleaning services • Licensed and insured (334) 220-4306

Need a Babysitter?

Ms. Kidd’s House Daycare “Where Kids Come to Have Fun!” Call anytime for more information at 334-324-4559.

“Absolute Clean” Cleaning Service

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

Need It Clean? Give Us a Ring!

Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

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

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

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

Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training

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

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

Tutoring

Southern Quality Lawns, LLC

Tutoring for Students in Grades K-6th

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

Mrs. Taylor (Current Teacher) 334-590-2098 hdtaylor101@charter.net

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

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

Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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“Home is Where the Heart Is” Cleaning Services”

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

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

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AdvertiserDirectory We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.

Frazer Memorial UMC, 2, 37

New Park, 7

G2 Services, 88

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 23

4D Mommies, 18

Glitterbug the Clown, 61

Paint and Clay, 64

Adventure Sports II, 65

Greengate School, 77

Party Junction, 88

Alabama Dance Theater, 69

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 25

Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 27

Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front

Hooper Academy, 35

Playtime Inc., 88

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 44

Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 40

Prattville Wesleyan Preschool, 89

AllMed Urgent Care, 3

Huntington Learning Center, 29

Professional Pediatrics, 12

ASKIN/Synergy House, 89

Jaclyn’s Salon and Spa, 21

Pump It Up Party, 61

AUM Continuing Education, 71

Jenny Alexander, MD, 89

Riverfront Park Movie Mondays, 19

Baptist Health, 47

Johnson Martial Arts/Karate, 45

Riverview Camp, 86

Bradford Health Services, 51

KLynn Ice Skating School, 62

Saint James School, 1

Buckmasters Expo, 14

Katie Rotton Virtual Assistant, 89

Saint James UMC, Inside Back

Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 41

Kingry Orthodontics, 87

Smart Smiles, 63

Chapman Orthodontics, 44

Kreative Moments, 88

Smiles Galore Parties, 62

CHARMS, Inc., 89

Kumon, 39

Soiree Mobile Spa for Girls, 58

Churchill Academy, 24

Laura’s School of Dance, 81

Spacewalk of Montgomery, 66

Clenney and Palmer, LLC, 43

L.E.A.N. Health in Central AL, 24

Spacewalker, The, 88

Creative Printing, 67

Learning Tree Child Care, 34

Spotless Cleaning Services, 8

Dance Generation, 42

Legacy Early Learning Center, 31

Success Unlimited Academy, 17

Dancewear, Etc., 88

Little Explorer’s Learning Center, 33

Sylvan Learning Center, 33

Dentistry for Children, 23

Looney’s Super Skate, 64

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 81

Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 53, 85

Lori Mercer Photography, 66

The Big Green Bus, 57

Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 69

Macon East Academy, 4

The Dollhouse Toy Store, 60

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 42

Mathnasium, 27

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 65

Miller Beef and Cattle, 14

Tiger Park Taekwondo, 89

E & S Hobbies, 89

Montessori @ Hampstead, 32

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 88

Eastdale Mall, 13

Montessori @ Mulberry, 73

Trinity Presbyterian School, 15

Easter Seals, 18

Montessori Academy, 28

United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 58

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 40

Montgomery Humane Society, 11

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 20

Embellish, 9

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 83

Vaughn Road Preschool, 75

Evangel Christian Academy, 21

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 26

Vishnu Dental, 83

First UMC, Montgomery, 49

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 29

Waterville USA, 50

First UMC, Prattville, 73

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 89

WeeOnes Daycare and Preschool, 35

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 50

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 59

Whimsy Daisy Art Studio, 53

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The Fault in Our Stars

How to Train Your Dragon 2

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: B Sexual Content: CLanguage: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated The Fault in Our Stars is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, some sexuality and brief strong language. Shailene Woodley has grabbed two big title roles this year. After portraying a feisty societal outsider in the movie Divergent, Woodley takes on a very different character in The Fault in Our Stars. She plays Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teen that wants to be like any other adolescent dealing with homework and worrying about a date for prom. But Hazel is not like every other teen. She has cancer. The cancer has settled in her lungs, forcing her to wear a nasal cannula and drag around a portable oxygen tank. For now, the experimental drug she is taking seems to be working. At least it is delaying her death. In the meantime, Hazel’s mother (Laura Dern) worries about her daughter’s emotional state and wants her to attend a cancer support group. Reluctantly, Hazel attends a meeting for the sake of her mother. There she bumps into newcomer Gus Waters (Ansel Elgort). He lost his leg to cancer but has come to the meeting to support his friend Isaac (Nat Wolff) who is about to undergo surgery to remove his second eye. In spite of his own condition, Gus’s gregarious personality makes him stand out in the crowd. Considering the bleak forecast for her future, Hazel doesn’t believe in forming long-term relationships. But Gus sees things differently. He wants to pack in every human experience he can before he dies. The film’s contrived premise (based on the best-selling book of the same title) teeters on the edge of becoming overly sentimental even as it encourages viewers to embrace life. While there’s no question the tragic circumstances these young lovers find themselves in are meant to induce tears, Woodley and Elgort do have moments on film that are remarkably truthful. Unfortunately it’s hard to maintain that for the entire movie when an untimely death is inevitable. Some of the stronger scenes involve the teens’ parents. They are wrapped up in the care of their children, trying to find a balance between protecting without coddling, and allowing their youth to lead as normal of a life as possible. For many fans of the novel, this movie will be a decent adaptation. But that doesn’t mean the screenplay is without some content concerns. The scene in which Gus loses his virginity to Hazel isn’t just a quick fade to black. While it is played to be both tender and slightly awkward, the depiction includes male chest and female back nudity. There is also a sense that life’s hugest tragedy would be to die a virgin. The script also contains more than a smattering of profanities, a strong sexual expletive and vulgar language. The Fault in Our Stars may be this generation’s version of Love Story. Yet just as that 1970’s film promoted some falsities -- like love means you never have to say your sorry -- this movie’s urging to live life to the fullest might be a little faulty when it includes an excuse for teen sex.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Language: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated How to Train Your Dragon PG for adventure action and some mild rude humor. It’s not often that a sequel lives up to the original film but How to Train Your Dragon 2 is one that does. And banking on the success of this movie, Dreamworks has already announced a release date in 2016 for How to Train Your Dragon 3. Gerard Butler voices Stoick, the chief of a Viking village on the remote and rocky island of Berk. Big, burly and blustering, he rules with a heavy but compassionate hand. In the past, his villagers were plagued by dragons that swooped down and made a quick lunch of the inhabitants’ sheep. Luckily Stoick’s son Hiccup (voice by Jay Baruchel) put an end to the trouble when he learned how to train the dragons to work with the people instead of against them. Since then life has been pretty harmonious for the seafaring pirates. Now with the dragon situation remedied, Stoick is anxious for his son to assume leadership of the town. Yet the scrawny and sensitive Hiccup worries he will never live up to his father’s expectations. As well, he is preoccupied with mapping out the uncharted lands around their island. One day, after crash-landing on a previously unexplored landmass, Hiccup and his dragon Toothless discover a secret world populated by hundreds of dragons. Even more unexpected is the woman who has made it her mission to protect the beasts from Drago, an evil dragon hunter (voice of Djimon Hounsou). He intends to enslave the flying creatures. However Valka (voice of Cate Blanchett) also has a secret she’s been keeping from Hiccup. The revelation, the ensuing battle with the dragon hunters and Hiccup’s feelings of inadequacy make this story better suited for a slightly older audience. Hiccup has grown up since his first adventure ended five years ago and the subject matter in this script reflects that. Instead of thinking girls are yucky, Hiccup and Astrid (America Ferrera) share a kiss or two. And a couple of different boys have gone soft in the head for Ruffnut (voice of Kristen Wiig) -- though it is hard to know what they see in her. Battle scenes between gigantic dragons might be a little scary for very young viewers. Nevertheless, this film is packed with plenty of other slapstick comedy and sight gags to keep most kids entertained. And for adults, the animation is incredible. Still the visuals are only part of this film’s appeal. While it may seem obvious, every child eventually has to find his or her way in the world independent of parental expectations. And that is a dilemma for Hiccup who is anything but a typical Viking. Luckily for him, there is more than one way to lead a village.

What Parents need to know about How to Train a Dragon 2...

Violence: Characters engage in rough and tumble activities with some pushing, punching and other none graphic violence. Animals and humans are captured and beaten. Explosions cause a house to start on fire threatening the people and animals inside. A dragon nearly drowns after being forced out of the air. Some scary characters are shown. Characters are threatened and face perilous situations. Dragons are shot with darts. Characters fight with weapons. Two large dragons fight one another. A man is killed during battle. Other deaths are briefly shown. Some brief depictions of blood are shown. Sexual Content: Couples kiss on several occasions. A girl makes some suggestive comments and ogles a man before trying to get his attention. A gay character comes out with a brief and highly veiled comment. Language: The script contains infrequent mild profanities and name-calling.

What Parents need to know about The Fault in Our Stars...

Violence: A character throws and breaks things while dealing with his anger over being dumped. Characters throw eggs at a car in an act of revenge. Sexual Content: A character passionately kisses his girlfriend in public and then roughly fondles her breasts. He later makes a comment about the size of a woman’s breast. A mother questions her daughter about herpes. A young man laments he is still a virgin. Later a teenaged, unmarried couple engages in sex with some chest and back nudity shown. Language: The script contains a strong sexual expletive, some vulgar expressions, crude comments, profanities and numerous terms of Deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character frequently holds an unlit cigarette between his lips. Teens drink champagne. Montgomery Parents I July 2014

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