Montgomery Parents June2019

Alabama Ranks

#44

in HPV Vaccinations in the United States

ALABAMAPUBLICHEALTH.GOV/ORALHEALTH

ORAL HEALTH OFFICE Promoting Smiles Across a Lifetime

Pre-K3 Nursery Rhyme Program 2019

A Complete Education The diverse and creative achievements that Saint James students earn and

ACADEMICS ARTS

accomplish are the tangible expressions of the distinctive purpose and impact of Saint James School.

Educating the whole child has been our mission since our founding in 1955.

Still true today, “...We are committed to challenging and assisting students in realizing their individual potential and preparing them for lives

ATHLETICS

of responsibility, service, and achievement.�

Visit Saint James School and experience the most complete education offered in Central Alabama.

Saint James School FOR PRE-K3 THROUGH 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS

334.273.3021

Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program.

Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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Y O U R H E A LT H OUR MISSION

WITH

UAB MEDICINE AS OUR PARTNER,

O U R H E A LT H C A R E I S I N A

CLASS BY ITSELF. Our focus on building the strongest physician base across Central Alabama begins with higher education. From training outstanding medical professionals to recruiting world-class experienced physicians, our efforts result in a diverse medical staff skilled in a myriad of specialties working together to ensure quality care and successful recovery.

With UAB as our partner, we’re providing outstanding healthcare and specialty services for you—close to home.

LEA RN MO RE A B O U T O U R PA RTN ERSH IP AT

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VACATION Bible School

*Child must have turned 4 by August 31, 2018 to attend VBS.

June 17-21 9:00 am to Noon ages 4* through 6th grade

// FREE!

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER VISIT

www.montgomeryfbc.org/vbs

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH montgomery

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

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305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.6310 www.montgomeryparents.com

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June2019 68 22

Volume 24 Number 6

Columns

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8 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

A Day for Dad

Ideas for making this Father’s Day one he’ll remember.

Family Relocating?

Discover 9 ways to make this transition easier on your kids.

16 Montgomery Education Matters

by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent

52 Pike Road Education Matters

by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.

58 Autauga Education Matters

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by Superintendent Spence Agee

61 Elmore Education Matters

by Superintendent Richard Dennis

66 The College Years

by Lee Gonet

Newcomers Guide

Our top picks to help your family connect with our community.

Progressive Day Camp A unique way to entertain neighborhood kids this summer.

72 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

92 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

110 Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Bobby and Jennifer Trott have been married for 11 years and are both Montgomery natives. They have three children: Barnes (10), Emilyn (8) and Harrison (6), all attending Montgomery Academy.

The Trotts enjoy the many opportunities Montgomery offers to families. A few of their favorite things to do are taking the kids to play on the hill at the Tipping Point in Hampstead, going to Biscuits games, attending summer movies at the Capri, and visiting Sweet Creek to see the animals and eat ice cream! Having easy access to Lake Martin and the Florida beaches is a perk the Trotts relish about living here, and they try to scoot out of town and take advantage of the short distance as often as possible.

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Departments 14 Teacher of the Month 18 School Bits 100 Calendar/Support Groups 112 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote I’m a Montgomery native! I’ve lived in the River Region my entire life, with the exception of one year in Texas as a child and my time at Auburn University.

While I love to travel, and do so often, I’ve never had much desire to move away from this area. For starters, the River Region is in a great central location... close to the lake, close to the beach, and close to Atlanta for flights and big city fun. Besides these conveniences, we’re also a family-friendly community offering fun attractions, activities, kid-friendly dining options, excellent education choices and medical care, plus so much more. That’s why I love that we’ve published our first Montgomery Parents Family Newcomers Guide here in our June issue.

With the onset of summer, we are excited to welcome new families to the area! Whether you’ve arrived due to a job transfer, are a military family newly stationed here, or have landed here for another reason, we want to welcome you and help your family get to know our great community. And for those of us who have lived here a long time, let’s be sure to hand this issue to our new neighbors and new families at our churches and schools.

On page 78, our 2019 Family Newcomers Guide lists our top picks in categories like Where to Learn, Where to Play, Where to Eat and Where to Grow. You’ll find recommendations for pediatricians, child care centers, schools, annual events, restaurants, local attractions and more. Our advertisers are highlighted, and we hope you will check into the services they are excited about providing for your family. Also be sure to check out Christa Hines’ article, 9 Ways to Make Relocation Easier on Kids. She offers helpful advice to ease this sometimes difficult transition for children.

One great way to get to know new neighbors is to include them in hosting a Progressive Day Camp. Pam Molnar shares exactly how to make it happen in her article on page 96. The basic concept is that each host home supplies a craft or activity for one hour and then the group of children moves on to the next house for the next activity. Once a parent’s turn is over, he or she is free to get some things done or have some “me” time, and their child is off to the next stop! It’s a super idea that will help keep your kids busy while offering a way to know your neighbors better.

June 16 is Father’s Day and in her article, A Day for Dad, Kimberly Blaker is providing fun and creative ways to celebrate the father or father figure in your family’s life. With themes like Weekend Getaway, Sports Buff’s Surprise, and King for the Day, just to name a few, you are sure to find the perfect idea to make him feel all your love and appreciation.

Here’s to cherished fathers, new River Region families and a summer full of making memories with the ones we love!

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 Kimberly Blaker Richard Dennis Lee Gonet Christa Melnyk Hines Dr. Charles Ledbetter Sonia Martin, LMSW Dr. Ann Roy Moore Gerry Paige Smith Allen White, MD

Cover Photography Lisa Smith www.studiopanache.net

Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com

Associate Publisher Gena Hill Community Coordinator Savannah Bowden Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com

Ad Design Tim Welch

DeAnne

Member

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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Congratulations, Graduates!

We congratulate the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Class of 2019! Our 144th graduating class includes 92 members who earned $17 million in scholarship offers from 31 colleges and universities. The top 20 percent of the class achieved an ACT composite score average of 30.5 and grade point averages ranging from 4.0 to 4.4.

Meet the Class of 2019: A Jimmy Hitchcock Award Winner · An AP Scholar with Distinction · 8 collegiate athletes, 3 of whom received NCAA Division 1 scholarships · 8 future members of the Armed Forces, including 2 recipients of the National Army ROTC Scholarship · 2 Eagle Scouts · Members of the State Championship Boys Cross Country Team · Members of the State Championship Girls Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Outdoor Track Teams · Members of the VEX Robotics World Championship Team · A member of the Wheelchair Basketball National Championship Team · A future member of the Auburn University Flag Line · An All-State Solo Competition winner · A nationally-recognized Drum Major · Members of the All-State Band We are so proud of our graduates who exemplify what it means to be built by Catholic.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School

Grades K4-12 www.montgomerycatholic.org 7

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TherapeuticParenting

by Sonia Martin, LMSW

Fill Their Bucket My 17-year-old twins and I have recently been watching old episodes of Survivor. It’s big fun. I now have a pretty good understanding of how to make a fire with or without flint, I know how to skin a rabbit – a skill which will remain completely under utilized in my life – and I know how to align myself with individuals who will claim to care, yet turn around and blind side me at the next tribal council. Some great teachable moments we have been having around here as the school year winds down. We could have been prepping for ACT’s in the fall, but in my sage parenting decision making, we have opted to watch people run around an island eating scorpions to abate their hunger. I am clearly winning at parenting.

There was an episode recently wherein all of the contestants had to fill a bucket (that was riddled with holes) with water, traverse over numerous obstacles while attempting to plug said holes, and eventually dump whatever remaining water was in the bucket into a container, which when full, would signal victory.

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Since I can’t seem to even watch a television show without evaluating and clinically diagnosing people in situations, I offer you the following observation: Fill your child’s bucket. Fill it often. Fill it much. Fill it when you don’t want to fill it. Fill it when they don’t deserve it. Fill their bucket.

One of the very best ways that I have found to remain relationally engaged with my nest full of teenage boys is to intentionally find ways to serve and love them well. Yes, I offer them a home full of warmth and pop tarts. Yes, I provide the new pair of baseball cleats each season, the braces that straighten the teeth and the cast when they fall off a golf cart and break their arm. I do all of that. But what I’m talking about is going beyond our “have to’s” and intentionally finding ways to “get to” love them well.

Allow me to illustrate.

Sometimes I will (gasp) clean their room for them, without following that up with a lecture on how many dishes I found under the bed. Sometimes if I am out running errands, I will periodically drop off a favorite snack or milkshake at the school office. I might have their favorite smoothie

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ready for them when they walk in the door from baseball practice with an encouraging note. Whatever it is, in whatever way works for you and your family, find ways to pour some water into that bucket.

This world has a way of poking more and more holes into the life of your child.

They are navigating innumerable obstacles as they grow and learn and lead. Let us be the ones pouring into them regardless of how much we think they deserve it.

Because, if I may, that’s where we tend to go a bit off the rails. We tend to think that we should withhold that water unless they act or behave in a way that is acceptable to us, when in all actuality – a child who is struggling needs a cup of water way more than a child who is feasting at the table. So, go grab a hose and start pouring. Survivors ready? Go! Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation.

Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of whom were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent.

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First Friday Cruise-Ins Friday, June 7, 5:30-7 p.m.

36 Dexter Ave., Montgomery.

The lower block of Dexter Ave. will be closed off once the featured vehicles are in place. Numerous restaurants and food trucks will be open including Alabama Sweet Tea Company, Momma Goldberg’s, FRIOS Pops, Cuco’s Mexican Café and others.

Join us for some free family friendly fun. For more info, visit www.LowerDexter.org or call (334) 273-0313.

Wetumpka Depot Penguin Project Presents Annie Jr.

June 14 & 15 @ 7 p.m. both days; plus 2 p.m. matinee June 15 All roles will be played by youth with special needs who are partnered with peer mentors. Join us for this exciting performance empowering children with special needs though theatre! For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Juneteenth Celebration

June 22 * 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Rosa Parks Museum, 252 Montgomery St. Juneteenth is the oldest known commemoration of the ending of slavery in Texas, but is used to mark the overall ending of slavery in the U.S. We are blocking off Montgomery Street between Lee and Molton for the 3rd annual Juneteenth celebration. This FREE event will have local food and merchant vendors, performances, a children’s area, and free tours of the museum. The band Souled Out will perform and additional performers will be on hand throughout the day, as well as retail and food vendors, kids’ play area and a 1950s Montgomery City Bus. For more info, call (334) 241-8615.

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Military Appreciation Day at the Zoo

Thursday, June 20, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway.

Free admission for all military personnel and families. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

Good Mornings @ Frazer June 10-July 25 @ 9 a.m.-noon JEM Activity Center Good Mornings is a summer recreation program for rising 1st-6th grade boys and girls offered Mondays-Thursdays in the J.E.M. Activity Center. Includes indoor and outdoor games, snack time and devotion.

Cost is just $6 per day (additional $2 for early drop off at 7:30 a.m). Offered on a daily basis, no required attendance or preregistration needed.

Movie Monday at the Riverfront July 1, 8, 15 & 22

Movies begin at dusk. Blankets and chairs welcome! ~ Vendors available and picnics welcome. Call (334) 625-2100 for info.

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Summer Kids Movie Series at Chantilly 13

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Take the kids to New Vision Cinemas, 10477 Chantilly Pkwy, every Monday and Thursday in June and July for great movies and concessions at a low price. Admission is $4.50 and includes a kid sized popcorn and fountain drink. Visit newvisiontheatres. com for a list of dates and movies. *** NOTE: Prattville Promenade features the same movies the same weeks at the same prices, but on Wednesdays and Thursdays instead of Mondays and Thursdays. ***

SUMMER CHILDREN’S MATINEES MAY 30 thru JULY 26

ALL SEATS $2.00

NO SHOWS JULY 4-5 May 30-31: Captain Underpants June 6-7: Sgt Stubby:American Hero July 11 - 12: Wallace & Gromit June 13-14: Teen Titans Go! July 18 - 19: Wonder Park June 20-21: Boss Baby July 25 - 26: Race For Your Life, June 27-28: Chicken Run Charlie Brown

50¢ Popcorn – 50¢ Soda

Attendance is First Come, First Serve. No Reservations, No Advance Sales.

CAPRI THEATRE • 1045 E FARVIEW AVE • 334.262.54858

THURS • FRI • 10:00am & 1:00pm 10

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Summer Reading Library Programs Slogan: A Universe of Stories!

Creekwalk Concerts

Montgomery Programs June 3-July 12 Program Finale, July 12 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Morgan Library, 245 High Street Visit http://mccpl.lib.al.us/ and click on the locations tab to find the branch closest to you.

Wetumpka Library Programs For grades 1-6 Tuesdays June 11-July 23 @ 2-3 p.m.

Wetumpka Civic Center For grades 7-12 Thursdays June 13-July 25 @ 1 p.m.

Movies at the library www.wetumpkalibrary.com/ Prattville Programs For ages 6-10 Tuesdays June 4-July 23 @ 11 a.m.

For ages 11-18 Mondays June 10-Jul 22 @ 5:30-6:30 p.m. www.appl.info/summerregistration.asp

June 11 & 25; July 9 and 23 6:30-8:30 p.m. Autauga Creekwalk behind Prattville City Hall, just off South Chestnut Street. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets.

Coolers are welcome, but no alcoholic beverages or glass containers are allowed.

Concerts are free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0850.

Pike Road SummerFest

July 4 * 4:30-9:30 p.m.

The Waters Neighborhood Summer Fest will feature food, familyfriendly fun and fireworks. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy live music.

The night will culminate with a fireworks spectacular overlooking Lake Cameron. Admission is $10 per vehicle. Visit www.pikeroad.us.

June 14 & 15 6 p.m. Strand Park, Alex City on Friday; 6 p.m. The AMP at Lake Martin on Saturday. This two-day music festival is free and presented by Russell Lands on Lake Martin.

Visit www.theamponlakemartin.com/.

Bigger choices of better food for Montgomery.

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Alex City Jazz Fest

It’s a family thing.

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We’re family-owned and open daily for you.

1520 Eastern Blvd / 334-409-9890 jasonsdeli.com

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Interesting Facts About Summer Colds Everybody’s grandmother says, “Summer colds are worse and last longer than winter colds.” I had doubts about grandmother’s opinion until I looked into it a few years ago and found that grandmother was correct. The symptoms of a summer cold are surprising.

You expect runny noses with a cold, but in summer you may also get fever, nausea, diarrhea, achy body, and occasionally a rash. While winter colds last 10 days, summer colds can last weeks and often relapse. Summer colds don’t get much attention, but the National Institute of Health estimates that 10 to 15 million illnesses are caused yearly by the summer cold virus.

The winter cold virus is likely to be rhinovirus, coronavirus or a picornavirus.

The summer cold virus, that thrives in warm weather from June to October, is different, an enterovirus. All of these viruses can cause disease throughout the year. Experts are not sure why one or the other predominates in their respective times of year.

These viruses spread rapidly in large groups of people, such as airports, sporting events, schools, grocery store carts, and daycares. All colds are caused by direct contact with infected nasal mucus, but the sneaky enterovirus can also be spread by

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

the fecal-oral route from changing dirty diapers on the fold down changing table or door knobs in a public bathroom or at home.

Colds are often mistaken for allergies.

Clear nasal mucus lasting 10 days or more with nasal stuffiness, puffy eyelids and blood shot eyes is more likely to be a seasonal allergy. Green nasal mucus, hacking cough, diarrhea, fever and skin rash indicate a summer cold.

Prevention of the Summer Cold 1. Wash hands with soap and water, frequently. Hand sanitizers are not as effective against viruses as hand washing, but are better than nothing.

2. Wipe off items used by others before using them yourself. Phones are known to carry a heavy load of germs as are TV remotes, especially in a motel room.

3. Encourage fluids to maintain hydration, provide plenty of fruits and veggies and maintain bedtime routines as closely as possible.

4. Keep little fingers out of their noses.

(Good luck on that!)

5. Most obviously, stay away from sick people. If your child is in daycare or summer camps, just pray and hope for the best.

What can you do for a summer cold?

The same things you can do for a cold

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in the winter--drink fluids, rest, give Tylenol or Advil, and gargle with warm salt water.

Saline nose drops and suction may help as can Grandmother’s chicken soup. For mild symptoms in a child over 2 years old, some cold medicines can be used, but realize they only help with symptoms, and won’t cure a cold. Exercising to “sweat it out” can, in fact, can make a summer cold worse. If the cough gets worse and is keeping you or your child up at night or the fever lasts more than 2-3 days, see a doctor.

Do not go to the pediatrician to get an antibiotic. Antibiotics will not defeat summer nor winter cold viruses and can have side effects such as diarrhea, bloating, indigestion and increased chances of an allergic reaction. Overuse of antibiotics leads to increased numbers of antibiotic resistant germs!

Dr. Allen White earned his medical degree in 1969 from Kentucky Medical School, Lexington, and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine with an office in the Goode Medical Building of Jackson Hospital before moving to the Carmichael Road location in 1986. He and his wife, Diana, have 3 sons. For pleasure, Dr. White enjoys reading, gardening and spending time with his grandchildren.

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Ivy Johnson Autauga County Technology Center

teachers to be a teacher herself, because of how they invested their lives in students beyond the classroom.

“The most rewarding aspect of teaching is having the ability to impact a young person’s educational journey. As a former first grade teacher, I loved teaching children to read, opening the door for future success. Now that I teach high school students, I find it extremely rewarding to help students develop plans to pursue their college and career goals,” says Mrs. Johnson.

“As a native Prattvillian, I have witnessed Prattville grow from a small town to a progressive city. It is a privilege to be a part of the Autauga County Technology Center where we can prepare students to become productive members of our community.

“It is an honor to be a Teacher of the Month nominee. This recognition underscores the support I receive from administrators and co-workers at the Autauga County Technology Center. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference. “

This month we are honoring Ivy Johnson who teaches Accounting and Financial Management classes, and also serves as a coordinator for students participating in the Work-Based Learning Program at Prattville High School. Mrs. Ivey says that “Faith and Family” are two of the most important aspects of her life. She has four children who are her pride and joy.

Tracey A. Meyer with Alabama Association of School Boards has had experience with Mrs. Johnson through her son taking his elective classes with her for two years. She says, “Mrs. Johnson’s involvement with students, and commitment to help them excel, has not only made her an outstanding teacher, but also a mentor for so many.” In addition to the curriculum, Mrs. Johnson teaches students everything from interviewing techniques and how to prepare a resume to learning about careers and government structure.

“What I love most about Mrs. Johnson is the one-on-one connection she makes with every child.

Let’s be honest, high school is a crowded place and it is so easy for students to get lost in the crowd. Mrs. Johnson makes it a point to let her students know that every single one of them is valued. As a parent, what more could you ask for, especially from a teacher?

She is absolutely one of the best of the best in Autauga County Schools,” says Tracey.

Mrs. Johnson enjoys beekeeping, entertaining and family activities. She’s been teaching for 19 years and says she was inspired by three former

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Congratulations, Mrs. Johnson, on being the Montgomery Parent’s Teacher of the Month. Thank you for making a difference through the classroom!

Ivy Johnson has four children: Logan, 22, Blake, 21, and twins Hope and Grant, 17.

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Connect to adventure with a Vacation Loan.

MyGuardianCU.com

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Too Soon?

Not Really As the summer begins, many recent graduates are getting ready for college. They are going through the summer reading list, buying sheets and college ruled notebooks, and looking forward to learning and the life experiences that college offers. But what about kindergartners? The road to college can begin with the simple question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

Helping your young child begin to prepare for college is important. Making sure he or she is reading on or above grade level is critical. Summer reading programs can help. Math, science and English are also important. What are your child’s strengths and challenges? Summer

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

is a great time to do an honest assessment and create a plan.

While tutoring is available from most schools during the year, you may need to help your child over the summer. It may be necessary to look for outside tutors if your child is struggling in a particular area. If you can’t afford a tutor, some area churches and non-profits may offer something for your child.

Speaking of money, there are several ways to help take the sting out of the cost of college. The earlier you begin the better.

Alabama has a 529 college savings plan.

You, friends and relatives can help begin saving for your child’s education after high school. There are some risks and restrictions so look at it carefully. You can find out more at https://www.savingforcollege. com/529-plans/alabama. Scholarships are of course the best, since you don’t have to pay those back. Every year millions of dollars in scholarships go unclaimed. Starting early to find the types your child may be eligible for is essential. If you wait until he or she is a

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junior or senior in high school, it is likely you are too late to take advantage of everything available. There are also student loans, but no parent wants his or her child to begin their professional life tens of thousands of dollars in debt.

Most importantly, help your child understand that with a college degree there are more opportunities. The average college graduate will earn a million dollars more over their lifetime than someone with a high school diploma. Knowledge is power … and that translates into cash.

Helping children understand the benefits of an education beyond high school will help keep them motivated as they move through the grade levels and you can start to motivate your child with a simple question.

Dr. Ann Roy Moore is a teacher. For more than four decades, Dr. Moore has educated the children of Alabama. From her first post as a pre-school teacher, to her administrative work as a principal, central office curriculum specialist, superintendent, and her mentoring the next generation of teachers as an adjunct professor at colleges and universities, teaching is her passion.

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Montgomery County Schools

Cornerstone Holds Senior Chapel

Prior to graduation, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy held its Senior Chapel. CCCA seniors did an incredible job presenting their senior speeches on topics ranging from “Christian Contentment and Fitzgerald” to “God’s Justice.” Headmaster John Bradley reminded the audience that “your command to make yourself ready does not cease when you leave this school for the last time as a student. You are commanded to make yourself ready, to adopt a posture such that you seek and are receptive to opportunities to share Christ and to fulfill God’s ultimate purpose.”

ACA Performs Spring Musical

Alabama Christian Academy’s 2019 Spring Musical was Seussical. Upper School students performed and were joined by the elementary students.

BTW Student Wins Congressional Award

Booker T. Washington Magnet High student Erika Lewis has won the National Congressional Art Award for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District. She has been invited to Washington, D.C., for the award ceremony this summer, and her art will be on display for a year at the U.S. Capitol. She is shown with U.S. Rep. Martha Roby and BTW visual arts teacher Rachel Dudley.

Baldwin Magnet Strings Students Earn Top Ratings in Orchestra Assessment

Advanced Strings students at Baldwin Arts & Academics Magnet completed their first-ever Alabama Orchestra Association Music Performance Assessment and received the highest honors possible. They earned three superior ratings on stage and a superior rating in sight reading on a Grade IV program. The Alabama Orchestra Association holds the assessments once a year, allowing ensembles to perform three works before a panel of judges.

ECA Student Receives Full Scholarship

Skylar Brooks, a senior at Evangel Christian Academy, recently signed a full scholarship to Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Ga. Emmanuel is a NCAA Division 2 school, and Brooks will join the school’s bowling team.

Bowling will be a national championship sport starting next year. Brooks has won bowling tournaments and qualifiers in multiple states.

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Montgomery County Schools

Three Elementary Schools Get New Playgrounds with Fun New Features

MEA Senior Receives Memorial Scholarship

Macon East senior Cody Nesbitt was selected as the first recipient of the John Williams Memorial Scholarship through the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association. Nesbitt plans to attend Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Ga., majoring in agriculture with an emphasis in livestock production. Williams was a lifelong cattleman and auctioneer with the Montgomery Stockyards. Nesbitt was presented the scholarship by Jean Williams and her son Jarrod.

Three Montgomery elementary schools have brand-new pre-K playgrounds thanks to the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education, which is also funding six new pre-K classrooms at the three schools.

There were ribbon-cuttings for the new playgrounds at Highland Gardens Elementary, Halcyon Elementary and Brewbaker Primary, and students were able to go outside and try out their new play space. The playgrounds have a number of cool features, including some built by MPACT Building Science Academy students.

Among the features are talking tubes that look like flowers in which a 20-foot underground tube carries a child’s voice from one flower to another.

The playgrounds also include a sensory trike track; musical chimes that look like flowers; a honeycomb climber/tunnel; a multi-child swing; a double slide; art easels; a drum set; and a big sandbox.

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STJ Senior Earns Global Seal of Biliteracy

Recent graduate from Saint James School, Alisa Chirkova-Holland, earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy through her English and Spanish fluency. The Global Seal of Biliteracy is a very prestigious award that is recognized by national employers, college and universities, and high schools to identify language fluency.

Chirkova-Holland was a Spanish Level 4 student her senior year at Saint James under the instruction of high school Spanish teacher Rhea Grate. “Alisa was an exceptional student to have in my classroom for four years,” said Grate.

“She has worked tirelessly to truly master the language and her efforts to earn this extraordinary designation prove what an exceptional student she is. At this time, there are no other independent schools in the state of Alabama with students who have earned this high achievement. In fact, there are only three public schools in the state of Alabama with students who have earned this national designation.”

An official language certification from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) leads to increased job opportunities, instills confidence, and creates a significant professional advantage in the global marketplace. Applicants are required to earn a score of Intermediate Mid or Advanced Low on all four sections of the ACTFL Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages (AAPPL) and at least an ACT English score of 18 to earn the Global Seal of Biliteracy. ChirkovaHolland’s assessment evaluated her reading, writing, speaking and listening proficiency in Spanish. There are no teaching guides for this assessment, no practice tests for students—it truly is an evaluation of the student’s cognitive abilities (including Bloom’s Taxonomy upper level skills of application and synthesis) within the framework of the world language. Chirkova-Holland scored far above the ACT requirement and she earned Intermediate 5 scores in all four categories of the assessment.

Chirkova-Holland is shown above with her Spanish teacher, Rhea Grate.

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MA Senior Named Hitchcock Winner

Montgomery Academy senior Trey Lindsey was named the 2019 Jimmy Hitchcock Award male recipient. The objectives of the Jimmy Hitchcock award are to recognize Christian leadership in athletics and to encourage and inspire others to emulate the man whose memory is perpetuated by this award.

Each year, respective coaches of each athletic squad of the high schools of Montgomery County nominate the athlete who has displayed the most outstanding qualities of Christian leadership in that sport. These qualities include dependability, 100% effort, scholastic leadership, strong personal character, team leadership, church leadership and school activities leadership.

Lindsey set MA passing records for touchdowns and yards before turning in an All-State honorable mention basketball season. This was his first year playing MA baseball. He is the 13th overall Hitchcock winner from MA.

Montgomery Catholic Inducts New National Honor Society Members

The Loretto Chapter of the National Honor Society inducted 32 new members into its ranks at Montgomery Catholic School. NHS President Anna Catherine Barranco, Vice President Isabelle Cochran and Treasurer Annie Bach welcomed the inductees and acknowledged the high level of achievement in academics, leadership, character and service required for them to join NHS. Chapter advisor Jeanene Crenshaw, MCPS President Anne Ceasar and High School Principal Justin Castanza presented each senior with the graduation stole that would be worn on graduation day.

Candidates must meet the chapter’s requirement for scholarship, service, leadership, and character in order to be selected for membership. Continued participation in service projects and upholding the ideals of the school are required to retain membership. Members must also maintain the chapter’s required cumulative grade-point average, 3.75.

The inductees to the Loretto Chapter of National Honor Society are: Manny Caceres, Rhys Holifield, Darius Kindle, Demetrios Philippou, Isabelle Saliba, Lorissa Algarin, Sarah Rose Burden, Jack Burt, Tanner Carter, Olivia Cheriyan, Bobby Crawford, Ansley Dean, Nathan Downes, Lainie Doyle, Aidan Firman, Jason Flowers, Victoria Hall, Ashley Hayes, Michael Hodges, Sofia Izer, Savannah Johnson, Denalie Mosakowski, Scott Nation, Katherine O’Connor, Charlie O’Donnell, Katherine Perkins, Anna Sadie, Landry Samuels, Elizabeth Speirs, Kinley Tadlock, Chris Valencia and Clare Wilson.

The Class of 2019 members who received their honor stoles were Mitch Aaron, Annie Bach, Anna Catherine Barranco, Manny Caceres, Isabelle Cochran, Austin Collett, Jacob Flowers, Christian Friday, Katie Galvin, Emma Gandy, Jonah Gier, Reagan Herbek, Rhys Holifield, Tate Holifield, Jacob Holston, Caroline Justice, Darius Kindle, Zy’Keria King, Zac Kroeger, Grace Leslie, Maddie Losik, Kathleen Madden, Thomas McLaughlin, Claire Mills, Demetrios Phillipou, Zoe Rutland, Isabelle Saliba, Chloe Smith, Virginia Speirs, Sydney Sprowl, Emily Claire Talbot, Melody Taylor, Amaris Tyynismaa and Grant Walker.

Churchill Graduates Class of 2019

Thorington Road Baptist Church hosted the Churchill Academy graduation ceremony honoring the Class of 2019 on May 21. Churchill valedictorian Katie Boyt addressed graduates with a celebration of the diversity of the Class of 2019, followed by Dr. Michael Trull, lead pastor of Thorington Road Baptist Church, who served as the keynote speaker for the ceremony.

High School teachers; Kaye Pair, director; Kathy Farquhar, Lower School student services coordinator; and Patsy Lockwood, High School student services coordinator, spoke to each graduate’s individual experience at Churchill, along with their gifts, talents and passions.

The Class of 2019 includes Boyt, Kareem Elbakary, Teneal Foster and Jack Trulove.

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Flowers Student Develops Miming Skills

A Flowers Elementary fourth-grader received a special opportunity to nurture her talent thanks to a local sponsor. Nyla Spann attended a two-day conference in Chesapeake, Va., sponsored by the Friends of the Theater at Alabama State University to help develop her miming skills.

Spann has become well-known for the dramatic interpretations she has performed for the last four years at Montgomery’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

Evangel Christian Academy Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential

AISA Blue Ribbon School An Eagle Lands At The Rock

The Rock School salutes senior Robert Robinson for achieving the Boy Scout rank of Eagle Scout. Only 4% of boys who enter scouting earn this high honor.

For his Court of Honor, Robinson received congratulatory letters from President Trump, Governor Ivey, Senators Shelby and Jones, and Mayor Strange. His Eagle Project included the two white wooden tables displayed outside the school office. Robinson attended The Rock School since preschool and graduated May 30.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11

3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882

Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA

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ECA Names Elementary and High School Teachers of the Year

Evangel Christian Academy recently named an elementary and high school teacher of the year. Rhiannon Allison was named the Elementary Teacher of the Year and Susan Strahan was chosen to be the High School Teacher of the Year. The teachers were chosen by the Student Government Association.

Allison, a first-year teacher at ECA, graduated from Evangel Family Christian Academy, which is an affiliate of ECA. She then graduated from Faulkner University with a degree in elementary education. She currently teaches first grade and is part of the photography department.

Strahan graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in education. She double majored in English and French.

She has been at ECA for six years and has previously taught in Shelby County in Alabama and in Arkansas. She currently teaches English, is the Chapel director for the high school, and the high school supervisor.

Holy Cross Spanish Classes Learn Though Music And Dance

Holy Cross Episcopal School weekly enrichment Spanish classes are fun and educational! Spanish teacher Marlani Colvin had students dancing and singing while learning the parts of the body in Spanish with songs so that they could remember each new vocabulary word. Students sang and danced to the music while Colvin demonstrated each new vocabulary word. Students labeled a skeleton together and used a puppet to sing songs that used all the words for each part of the body they were learning. Colvin makes Spanish classes interactive, musical and exciting to help her students remember everything that they practice and learn each week.

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ATHLETIC ACADEMY A SPECIALIZED DIVISION OF SUCCESS UNLIMITED ACADEMY

ACCEPTING ADMISSIONS APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2019 FOR GRADES 9-12 For more information, call (334) 213-0803 Admissions Office

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BASEBALL | BASKETBALL | FOOTBALL | SOCCER | TRACK | WEIGHTLIFTING

Developing young men to their fullest potential academically and athletically in a Christ-like environment.

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SUA Studio Art Club Visits Local Galleries

Student members of the “Studio Art” Club at Success Unlimited Academy ended the school year with a few field trips to several art galleries in Montgomery. The students visited the “Product of Montgomery” art gallery, owned by Heather Parrish, after visiting Stonehenge and Gallery One Art galleries. Barbara Grimes is their art teacher at SUA.

Ride for Reading Delivers Books to Fitzpatrick Ride for Reading rolled into Fitzpatrick Elementary, bringing 600 books that were distributed to students throughout the school. Coordinated by Carol Ann Mustin with the Montgomery Bike Club, Ride for Reading promotes both intellectual growth through reading and physical health through biking. Principal WIlliam Milledge said there were books for every student in the school. A Fitzpatrick student is shown here with Bike Club members Alton Abrams and West Marcus.

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MacMillan Completes Character Project

Teacher Emori Byrd helped bring literature to life with a special project for her second-grade class at MacMillan International Academy. Her students have completed their first in-depth “character mapping” of a novel. The students read Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. They each chose a character from the novel, created a “character map” that explains the character, listed the character’s traits displayed throughout the novel, and connected the character to others based on their relationships in the novel.

From left are Byrd and students Alaina Bailey, Jayley Shuford, Ayden Woodson, Jordyn Miles, Morgan Lilly, Zakiya Knight, Kinsley Hogans, Prince Jarrett and X’riyah McCaster.

Saint James Math Team Competes for the Top Spot

The Saint James School Mathematics Team defeated the top schools in the area and top schools across the state in the second round of the Alabama Statewide Mathematics Competition this spring. STJ took a very coveted second-place spot in the state – with only a two-point margin between Saint James and the #1 spot!

Jack Branham, Trevor Otis, Nayoon Kang, Gayeon Paek, Jonghyun Park and Su Yun competed in the second round competition after the team placed first in both the district and state level first round competition.

The second round is a fast-paced, ciphering contest. In ciphering, students are given two minutes to solve a problem, head-to-head, against one student from each school.

Points are awarded based on how quickly the students submit a correct answer. It is, without a doubt, a high-pressure situation!

After four rounds and 40 problems, Saint James took second place against 10 other top schools in the state. “It was a tight match the entire time with the final outcome in question. STJ missed first place by only two points but in the last round, Gayeon answered one question correctly in 15 seconds, thus giving the Saint James team bonus points and shocking the competition proctors,” said Vicky Eichelberg, Saint James High School Mathematics Department Chair. “These students have worked hard and deserve high accolades for their effort and achievements.”

Front row from left are Su Yun, Gayeon Paek and Nayoon Kang. Back row from left: Jonghyun Park, Jack Branham and Trevor Otis.

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Cornerstone Presents Little Women

At right, the Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy Drama/Performing Arts class recently presented an adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women.” Everyone involved did an excellent job!

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The Future for these Graduates is Filled with Promise THE SAINT JAMES SCHOOL CLASS OF 2019 EARNED OVER $4.4 MILLION IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS! The graduates have committed to universities and colleges in twelve states and two countries outside of the United States!

These Saint James seniors embody the school’s mission and philosophy of educating the whole child, including academics, arts, and athletics. As individuals and team members, their accomplishments boast distinguished titles including District and State Math Champions; District and State Art Competition Winners as well as Gold and Silver Key Winners; National Forensics Qualifiers; Youth in Government Officials; Honor Band Members; National Choir Competition Winners; Area Football Champions; State Runner Up Volleyball Champions; State Wrestling Duals Runner Up and Super Sectional Champions; Final Four Participant in Girls Basketball; Area Boys Basketball Champions; Girls Indoor Track State Champions; Girls Tennis State Champions; Girls Outdoor Track State Champions; Area Girls Soccer Champions; Area Baseball Champions; and so much more!

They’re off and away! With a firm foundation under their feet. And ready for any challenge they meet. With great promise for the future, we congratulate the Saint James Class of 2019!

Saint James School FOR PRE-K3 THROUGH 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS

334.273.3021

Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program.

Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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SUA Art Students Win at AISA Shows

Art Students at Success Unlimited Academy won several ribbons at the AISA District Art Show hosted at Eastwood Christian School. From left, Charity Jenkins won second place in the 3D category, Azaria Jordan won first place in the Painting category, and Maria Ruiz won first place in the Watercolor category. These three winning art students also competed in the AISA Statewide Art Show, hosted at AUM. Jordan, a 6th-grader at SUA, won third place in the AISA Statewide Art show.

Their art teacher at SUA is Barbara Grimes.

Montgomery Academy Students Inducted Into National English Honor Society

On March 28, fifteen students received membership into The Montgomery Academy’s Robin Goodfellow Chapter of the National English Honor Society. Students must have earned a cumulative average of 93 in all of their English course work, starting in 9th grade, to receive membership.

Juniors inducted this year are Femi Adediji, Oliver Bear, Sofie Behr, John Dawson Bell, Cyprian Dumas, Martha Ernest, Anne Tyler Fitzpatrick, Russell Hughes, Jiwon Lee, Drew McDaniel, William Robertson, Ann Jordan Williams, and Kelly Yoon. New senior members are Seth Brand and Isabella Rowland. Many thanks to the chapter’s leadership for planning and conducting this year’s induction: Sarah Barnes, president; James Torbert, vice president; Carter Chandler, secretary/treasurer; and Hannah Soloff, events chairperson.

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Students Chosen for Basketball Capital City Conference Teams

The Capital City Conference Teams were announced and Alabama Christian Academy’s Reece Solar made 1st Boys’ Team and Jalen Clark made 2nd Boys’ Team.

Senior Josie Barlow made 1st Girls’ Team and Lindsey Glass made 2nd Girls’ Team.

BTW FBLA Students Shine at Conference

The BTW Magnet High School Future Business Leaders of America students had an amazing showing at the Alabama FBLA State Conference in Birmingham.

Aylon Gipson won first place in journalism, Jazmyne Isaac won fourth place in graphic design, and Andarious Porter was elected Alabama FBLA’s District 4 vice president!

Gipson and Isaac will go on to compete in the national competition in June in San Antonio. Porter will be responsible for more than 80 FBLA chapters in his district.

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Holy Cross STEM Lab Instruction Showcases Bridge Construction

Montgomery Catholic Represented At 2019 Alabama Youth Legislature

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School had another great year at the YMCA Youth in Government Youth Legislature, with the largest number of delegates attending from MCPS in the past few years.

Junior Aidan Firman served as a Justice on the Supreme Court. Seniors Christian Friday, Nick Brown and Austin Collett were recognized with honor cords for participating every year in high school. Junior Anna Sadie was chosen as the 2nd alternate delegate to the YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs this summer.

MCPS first-year delegates did exceptionally well, with freshmen Zach Izer, Julienne Pharrams and Titus Franklin being recognized as Outstanding Statesmen. Bills by Pharrams and Aniya Lowery, as well as Izer, were debated and passed on the floor, and Izer’s bill, “Abolishing Solitary Confinement for Juveniles,” was one of just fourteen bills signed into law by the Youth Governor.

The Youth Legislature delegates for Montgomery Catholic this year were Collett, Friday, Brown, Firman, Sadie, Franklin, Izer, Lowery, Pharrams, Ellie Pool, Ada Zeigler, Jack Burt, Patrick Flores, Michael Hodges and Will Driver.

According to the YMCA Youth in Government website, this program gives youth the opportunity to learn firsthand about government and civic issues by taking an active role in the democratic process, boosting youth development and contributing to a stronger community. The Youth Legislature program is a mock legislature that teaches students bill writing, lobbying, and parliamentary procedure, as well as helping to develop leadership skills and knowledge of public policy.

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Holy Cross Episcopal School students designed and constructed small versions of bridge prototypes to test what components were able to give a bridge the ability to exhibit strength and support the weight of cars and trucks. Fifth-grade students used popsicle sticks and worked together in small groups to discuss what components must be present in a bridge to distribute different kinds of weight.

STEM instructors Dr. Caleb Hamilton and Krista Hamilton demonstrated to students how different styles of bridges function to distribute weight demands.

Students were able to compare bridge types to determine what kind of bridge they thought would be best to build and how where to arrange for the most support to be placed in the design. When the bridges were complete, students then suspended the prototypes their groups built between two lab tables and tested to determine strength. Objects of different weights and shapes were positioned directly on the center section to bring maximum stress to the design until its weight capacity was reached.

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SUA’s Upper Classmen Learn U.S. Flag Etiquette

The 2018-19 school year has provided several upperclassmen at Success Unlimited Academy a firsthand opportunity to capture and understand the significance of being a proud American. Under the guidance and leadership of Rodney Cummings, a teacher at SUA, Tyler Wood, Andrew Dunham, Carl Webb and Nyles Taylor worked together as the Flag Team on the upper campus.These students genuinely wish to preserve the honor and respect necessary for the United States Flag. Their desire was to understand the history of the flag, learn how to correctly fold and salute “Old Glory.”

Cummings shared his knowledge of the history, appropriate handling of the flag, and many other important facts. These young men also had the daily responsibility of raising and lowering the flag. They learned firsthand the sincerity and respect necessary for handling the United States Flag.

ACA Senior Receives DAR Award

Senior Lindsey Glass represented Alabama Christian Academy in the Daughters of the American Revolution writing competition.

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Wilson Students Win Dining Experience With School Principal

Two Wilson Elementary second-graders enjoyed VIP treatment after winning the “Lunch with the Principal” contest. Mackenzie Newell and Peyton Harris joined Principal Meredith Bishop for the lunch of their choice thanks to the way they exemplified the school’s motto, “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully.” The girls opted for McDonald’s Happy Meals, which they enjoyed with Bishop at the school’s conference room table.

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Carver Leadership Team Submits Winning Proposal at Youth Forum

Carver High students presented the winning proposal for improving their school at the MPS Youth Forum, claiming a $1,000 prize. The Carver team was named the winner at the final meeting of the MPS Youth Forum, which was created by the nonprofit That’s My Child in partnership with the Montgomery Police Department. Students from every MPS middle and high school were chosen for their leadership potential. They were tasked with working together to think of ways to make their schools better. The forum was held at the Cramton Bowl Multiplex with speakers including That’s My Child founder Charles Lee and Mayor Todd Strange.

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ACA Math Olympiad Competes at Montgomery Zoo

The Alabama Christian Academy Math Olympiad team spent a morning at the Montgomery Zoo competing in an amazing race made up of high level thinking math problems.

School sponsors were Cheryl Chappell and Lynn Smith.

Catholic Student Shadows Dance Teacher Amy Treloar, a student at Montgomery Catholic, shadowed Tonya Speed at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, in her job as a dance studio owner and instructor. Treloar helped with a preschool dance class and assisted in teaching!

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BTW Participates in Youth in City

BTW’s Youth in Government/Law Magnet participated in the Youth in City/Youth in County YMCA programs which are also sponsored by the Optimist Club.

BTW students participating were D’verick BakerKing, Royelle Comer, Claire Harden, Erica Luckie, Allyson Merriweather, Brittany Miles, Aaron Shanks, Randy Weaver, and Finsen Yu. Students participating in Youth in City wrote and debated ordinances. Students participating in Youth In County shadowed county department officials. Luckie and Merriweather served as clerks, while Harden was a councilwoman on the City Council (shown with Commissioner Doug Singleton).

MEA Seniors Receive Dixie Scholarships

Macon East Academy seniors Nate Center and Jon Maddox were both selected to receive scholarships from the Dixie Electric Cooperative. Along with other local scholarship recipients, they were honored at a recent luncheon.

Maddox is a former attendee of the Montgomery and Washington, D.C. Dixie Youth Tour.

MPS Students Win National PTA Reflections Awards

Four students from Montgomery Public Schools won National PTA Reflections Awards for 2019.

Yaelyn Ha of Booker T. Washington won an Award of Excellence. Alma Florence Zimmer of Forest Avenue Academic Magnet, Yejin Han of Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet, and Lee Gaines of BTW all won Awards of Merit. Ha and Zimmer won for Visual Arts, and Han and Gaines won for Literature.

Award of Excellence winners receive a Silver Medal, an Award of Excellence certificate, a $200 Young Artist Scholarship, and their work will travel the United States for one year. Award of Merit winners receive a Bronze medal, an Award of Merit certificate, and their work will travel across the U.S. for one year.

The National PTA received more than 1,000 student submissions. Of these submissions, 205 students were selected from 40 State PTA Congresses for national-level recognition.

Ha was one of only 13 Award of Excellence winners in Visual Arts nationwide, and Zimmer was one of only 19 to win an Award of Merit in Visual Arts.Han and Gaines were among only 20 nationwide to win Awards of Merit in Literature. In fact, four of the five students from Alabama who won National PTA Reflections Awards are MPS students.

Three of the winners were recognized at a Montgomery County Board of Education meeting. Ha, Zimmer and Gaines are shown above with board member Dr. Brenda Coleman, BTW Principal Quesha Starks, BTW visual arts teacher Rachel Dudley, Board President Clare Weil, and Superintendent Ann Roy Moore. Han couldn’t make it to the meeting and is pictured separately.

Alabama Dance Theatre SUMMER CLASSES, Age 3 to Professional Level Session I: May 28 - June 13

Session II: June 24 - July 11

Tutus & Tiaras! Ages 3 - 8

June 17-21

Summer Dance Seminar

July 15 - July 29

Stars on the Riverfront

July 28 & 29

at the Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Avenue

www.alabamadancetheatre.com

(334) 625-2590 Photo by David Robertson, Jr.

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CCCA Holds Community Service Emphasis Day

Recently, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy held its Community Service Emphasis Day. CCCA students helped ministry partner Morningview Baptist Church move boxes related to its renovation efforts, and also served at a local elementary school, picked up trash, wrote cards and letters, and sang to the residents of an assisted living facility.

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TEA Students Visit Child Care Center

T.E.A. students were on the move with the Reading Across Montgomery program. Their first stop was at Flowers Child Care Center.

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Holy Cross Students Create Multidimensional Book Reports

Holy Cross Episcopal School fifth-grade students checked out books from the Holy Cross library with one goal in mind—to “make” a book report and have it completely different from any written book report they had always done prior to this special assignment.

Students enjoyed the assignment because they said that it made them feel more creative and “tell the story” much better than if they had just used the traditional method. With the multidimensional designs, they were able to describe the setting, characters, plot and resolution much more effectively than just saying what happened in words.

Students said it made the characters come to life, and it also portrayed the plot in pictures and vivid colors, which cannot be accomplished by writing. Instead of the usual format, each student constructed a 3-D diorama-style pyramid that displayed four panels to describe the plot, characters and problem within the story line to be solved and the resulting conclusion. Students presented each of their books along with the accompanying pyramid to the class to display and describe the book to each other.

Eastwood Students Enjoy Creative Day at Flimp Festival

Eastwood Christian School had 23 students participate in the Flimp Festival Sidewalk Chalk drawing contest at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts May 3.

Every artist worked hard and represented the school well. Knox DeHuff, Matthew Hodges, Porter Johnson and Seonwoo Lee were awarded first place in the Elementary Division for their chalk entry, “United Pillars of America.”

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The Rock Students Attend Huntingdon Summer Programs

The Rock School is proud of the following students who were accepted to three academies and/or programs hosted by Huntingdon College this summer. Each student was nominated, selected and provided a scholarship to attend their respective programs. Rising senior Zach Williams was invited to the Economic and Community Development Scholarship program, while rising juniors Kiaura Johnson and Robyn Oliver were selected for the Huntingdon Health Sciences Academy. Rising junior Serah Rohmayer and rising sophomore Ashton Woodard will attend the Huntingdon Leadership Academy. Last year, Williams attended the Health Sciences Academy and earned both the Physics and Leadership awards.

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BTW Soccer Teams Raise Funds for Charity

The BTW Magnet High School soccer teams got a kick out of giving back with the “Wash Away Cancer� car wash and fundraiser. Thanks to Lincoln Gravatt, Shelly Gravatt, and the teams for carrying out this community service project.

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Lanier Twins Graduate Top Two in Class A pair of twins at Lanier High were the school’s valedictorian and salutatorian, stepping up a challenge going back to their first year as Poets. Tamera Holt was valedictorian with a 4.103 GPA, and her twin, Tia Holt, was salutatorian with a 4.069 GPA. They are daughters of Lanier PTSA Vice President Lesa Croskey Holt and her husband, Travis.

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LAMP High’s GSA Chapter Wins National Award, Travels to New York

Spectrum, the LAMP High School Gay-Straight Alliance Chapter, has been named the GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network) GSA Chapter of the Year.

The group was chosen at the GLSEN Respect Awards banquet in New York City. GLSEN paid for the sponsor, Dr. Renée Summers, and three LAMP student members to fly to NYC to receive the award.

They were honored along with the cast of the award-winning television show Pose, performer Brendon Urie of Panic! at the Disco, and Educator of the Year Ace Schwarz.

Spectrum is a student-run club founded in August 2018. Its mission is to provide a safe, welcoming space for LGBTQ+ students and allies, offer LGBTQ+ students opportunities for leadership, create a more open and inclusive atmosphere, and work with local nonprofits to better their school and the surrounding community.

Many Spectrum members are unable to attend meetings regularly or participate in club activities due to personal safety concerns. GSA meetings are used as a time for students to freely be themselves without any concerns or fears about unaccepting parents, peers, or faculty and for their classmates to provide support for them. Despite these limitations, Spectrum is the first GSA in the area to nationally register with GLSEN. They have already sponsored on-campus events including GLSEN’s annual Day of Silence, which they participated in last year and again last month—commemorating Matthew Shepard and victims of hate crimes everywhere.

In their short history of eight months, they began working with nonprofits, including Aid to Inmate Mothers, Montgomery Pride United (MPU), and Colors River Region (a local group for LGBTQ+ youth and allies). They also ran a canned food drive for MPU’s anonymous food pantry for the homeless. Spectrum leadership is also working with Colors River Region to establish a GLSEN Chapter in Montgomery so that they can help other schools support LGBTQ youth.

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BTW Students Chosen for Study Abroad Program

Six Booker T. Washington Magnet High students are bound for Pietrasanta, Italy, for a study abroad program. Troy University is the partner school for this learning opportunity.

The students who will be taking the trip are Abigail Perkinson, Naomi Tyson and Ahsha Gray of the Dance Magnet (photo below left), Brianna Moore of the Creative Writing Magnet, and Yaelyn Ha and Zoe Davis of the Visual Arts Magnet (photo below right).

These students will be participating in tours and studies unique to their areas of focus at BTW. Each student received scholarships for the program. Special thanks to Mayor Todd Strange and City Councilman Richard Bollinger for making this trip possible.

Catholic Heads to Worldwide Robotics Competition

Three Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School RoboKnights robotics teams took their robots to the VEX Robotics Competition state competition early in March and competed against 60 teams from throughout the state. The 2018-2019 VRC challenge, “Turning Point,� requires robots to perform a variety tasks to score points, including flipping caps, picking up and placing caps onto poles, toggling flags by pushing them or shooting them with plastic balls, and climbing onto platforms. During competition, teams have two minutes to score as many points as possible, with the first 15 seconds being pre-programmed and autonomous and the remainder being driver-controlled.

Montgomery Catholic has competed at the Alabama state level every year for the past three years, and this was the first time that an MCPS team advanced to the next level. Team Lost in the Ross, comprised of senior Hunter Vaccaro, junior Arthur Murray, sophomore Aidan Cochran, and freshmen Catherine Aaron and Chris Lathram, advanced to the final round of competition, securing them a place at the VEX Robotics World Competition. Lost in the Ross was one of seven teams from Alabama, and they would compete among 580 top teams from around the world.

RoboKnights faculty advisor is Vicki Petters. with volunteer coach Robert Russell. The multiday VEX World Championship, which includes additional competitions at the elementary and university level, took place April 24-27 in Louisville, Kentucky. More than 1,600 teams from 30 countries gathered to compete and collaborate.

From left, freshmen Catherine Aaron and Chris Lathram; sophomore Aidan Cochran; junior Arthur Murray; and senior Hunter Vaccaro.

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SUA’s Achievers’ Class Visits CiCi’s Pizza For Life Skills Practic

Holy Cross Holds Annual Field Day

Holy Cross Episcopal School recently held its annual Spring Field Day on the school grounds and adjacent Chapel of the Annunciation behind the school. Each class wore a special Field Day T-shirt that was a separate color to set them apart from the other grades.

A variety of activities and games were held for pre-kindergarten classes to sixth grade that were arranged in specific gaming stations all across the fields. One station students were able to attend was held indoors and that was a opportunity to dance with a light show and great music!

A mid-morning snack station was set up on the covered patio for students as they rested between the game schedule. Lunch was hot dogs, chips and a variety of fun desserts as they enjoyed a movie inside to wait for the 6th grade versus Parents and Teachers annual Kickball game, which was the highlight of the day. This year, the game was historic in outcome because the Parent/Teacher team defeated the 6th grade team 14-12!

After the game, everyone came inside to enjoy popsicles and Italian ice pops.

As an enhancement to their life skills studies, the High School Achievers students from Success Unlimited Academy visited CiCi’s Pizza. CiCi’s offers an enrichment program in which students are given an informative tour of the facilities.

Students see first-hand behind the scenes of the process of building the pizza, cooking, and serving the pizza, as well as the daily responsibilities of the staff. The opportunity is very similar to career days.

Following the tour and demonstration, the hungry students enjoyed serving the pizzas they had helped prepare. The Achievers enjoyed the salad bar, pizza and dessert. All left with a full stomach!

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ECA Student Wins at AISA State Art Show

Faith Dixon recently represented Evangel Christian Academy at the Alabama Independent School Association District 5 Art Show. She won first place in the Kindergarten and First Grade Waterbase division.

She then advanced to the AISA State Art Show and won first place at the state level. Her artwork was created during ECA’s elementary art class, under the direction of LaDonna LeMaster. The class was studying the artist Henri Rousseau, who was best known for his primitive artwork on jungle scenes.

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Macon East Academy Performs at AISA Choral Festival in Selma

Macon East lower school students attended the Alabama Independent School Association Choral Festival at Elkdale Baptist Church in Selma. The group, under the leadership of music teacher Michelle Lott, received two superiors and excellent+ ratings at the event.

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TEA Visits Montgomery’s White House of the Confederacy

T.E.A. Christian Academy students visited the First White House of the Confederacy, one of many stops throughout the school year.

Lee Students Visit EJI

Rho Kappa Honor Society students from Lee High School learned about the history of the city and the nation with a field trip to downtown Montgomery. The students took part in an Equal Justice Initiative program that included some dedicated time at the Legacy Museum and a historical presentation and discussion by EJI staff. The program touched on slavery, lynching, segregation and mass incarceration and featured award-winning investigative journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones.

STJ Attends Young Voices Festival

Seven 6th-grade choral students from Saint James School attended Alabama’s American Choral Directors Association Young Voices Festival in Tuscaloosa. Caroline Adams, Bree Bennett, Brooke Bennett, Nicole Jung, Isabella Munson, Emily Register and Sydney Williamson enjoyed rehearsals and concerts in the Moody Music Building at the University of Alabama. Young Voices is a unique opportunity for 4th- through 9th-grade students to perform under the direction of nationally recognized music educators.

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Montgomery County Schools

Floyd Spanish Class and Club Visit DeSoto Caverns Students from Sra. Henley’s class attended a fun-filled field trip to De Soto Caverns on May 8 in Childersburg. The Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto famously arrived at the cave in the midst of his expedition in 1540 and interacted with the natives of the Coosa tribe. Students had the opportunity to go gem-panning, navigate through a maze and witness the accumulations of stalagmites and stalactites found in the caves.

Author/Illustrator Visits The Academy

In April, Montgomery Academy Lower School hosted children’s author and illustrator Peter Brown for a time of fun-filled imagination and storytelling as part of their annual author visit. Brown’s titles include New York Times bestsellers like The Wild Robot, The Curious Garden, Children Make Terrible Pets, and Mr. Tiger Goes Wild.

Brown’s illustrations for Creepy Carrots!, written by Aaron Reynolds, earned him a Caldecott Honor.

During his visit, Brown spoke about the books he made for fun when he was a child and also shared the steps he took to become a professional author and illustrator.

He read some of his published books and shared some of the stories behind their creation. Brown also discussed his process of writing and illustrating, and gave a drawing demonstration with some quick, simple drawing lessons that everyone can do.

SUA’S Elite Athletic Academy Moves Along With Construction

On April 30, Success Unlimited Academy unveiled its plan to offer a new specialized division of the school, Elite Athletic Academy. A groundbreaking ceremony was held as well. The new division is a unique Christ-centered specialized program geared to athletes for post-high school participation and careers in athletics. The 3,600 squarefoot building will house classrooms, a training room and a dance studio. The academy will be the setting for 50 young male athletes, in grades 9-12, who must attend a formal interview, and meet the admissions criteria and requirements. SUA is now accepting fall admissions applications, which are available at www.suacademy.com. The academy is located on the lower campus at 4500 Vaughn Road. Construction will be complete by August 1.

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Montgomery Catholic Recognizes Outstanding Students at Academic Awards Ceremony

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored its top high school students at the annual Academic Awards Ceremony held in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center May 6. MCPS President Anne Ceasar commenced the evening by presenting the 23rd annual Charles T. Harbin Distinguished Service Award to Pat (Class of 1989) and Casie McGinn, recognizing their years of volunteer service to the school.

Honor cords were presented by Elizabeth Harbin and Jeanene Crenshaw to graduating seniors in the Student Government Association, Science Honor Society, and Key Club. Crenshaw also presented the Key Club Distinguished Service awards to students who consistently serve their community through the Key Club. John Petters presented the American Mathematics Competition awards.

New to 2019 were the President’s List and the Principal’s List. Students recognized on the President’s List achieved a 4.0 or higher GPA. This included 30 seniors, 31 juniors, 21 sophomores, and 19 freshmen. The Principal’s List recognized students who earned between a 3.8 to 4.0 GPA and included 7 seniors, 8 juniors, 15 sophomores, and 10 freshmen.

The evening culminated with three of the highest awards given at Montgomery Catholic: Leader of the Year, the Ideal Montgomery Catholic Graduate Award, and the Sister Martha Belke Servant Leader Award. The nominees for these three honors were Mitchell Aaron, Annie Bach, Anna Catherine Barranco, Isabelle Cochran, Katie Galvin, Zoe Rutland, Byron Simmons and Melody Taylor.

The Leader of the Year award was presented to Isabelle Cochran; the Ideal Montgomery Catholic Graduate award was given to Katie Galvin; and the Sister Martha Belke Servant Leader Award was presented to Zoe Rutland.

From left are: Melody Taylor, Zoe Rutland, Katie Galvin, Isabelle Cochran, Anna Catherine Barranco, Annie Bach, Mitchell Aaron and Byron Simmons.

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ECA’s Girls’ Basketball Coach Named Coach of the Year

Evangel Christian Academy’s girls’ basketball coach, Haley Rosa, was recently named the Montgomery Area All Metro AISA Coach of the Year. The Lady Lions’ basketball team ended with a 20-10 record for the season and was ranked second in the area. The ECA varsity team then advanced to the AISA Elite Eight Regional tournament for the third time. The girls’ team finished the season by winning more games this year than they had in the previous three years combined.

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TEA Academy Takes Fun Field Trips

T.E.A. Christian Academy students are always on a journey to broaden their horizons by way of field trips. Throughout the school term, they have toured many historical places that were the building blocks to our future.

Please send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Carr Middle Honor Choir Wins Grand Champion at Music Festival

The Johnnie Carr Middle School Choraliers Honor Choir received Superior ratings and won Grand Champion in the Middle School Concert Choir Division at the National Music USA Festival. Johnnie Carr Middle School’s Concert Band also fared well, receiving Excellent ratings and winning second place in the Middle School Band Division.

BrewTech Attends TSA Conference

Several Brewbaker Technology Magnet High students were recognized at the Alabama TSA Conference in Birmingham.

Austin Thomas was elected the state vice president, and David Beam was elected the state treasurer. They also won second place in VEX Robotics along with teammate William Lawlor.

Chris Johnson and Travis Karvwnaris won third place in VEX Robotics. Johnson also won third place in CAD-2D/Architectural CAD, and Beam won sixth place in Dragsters.

ACA Juniors & Seniors Take New York Trip

The junior and senior classes of Alabama Christian Academy spent one of their last class trips together in New York City. They visited the Staten Island Ferry, the 9/11 Memorial, toured Manhattan, Wall Street, walked the Brooklyn Bridge and ate dinner in Times Square.

The temperatures were cold and windy but that did not keep them from experiencing the Top of the Rock and even Central Park.

Eastwood Students Score Honors on National Latin Exam

Eastwood Christian School recognized 28 students who scored honors on the National Latin Exam, including three Summa Cum Laude, gold medalists; seven Maxima Cum Laude, silver medalists; six Magna Cum Laude finalists, three Cum Laude finalists and nine Achievement Awards for Introductory Level Latin. Special recognition was given to Andrew Grete, who received a “perfect paper” recognition for answering every question on the Introductory Latin test correctly. The National Latin Exam was given to more than 139,000 students from all 50 states and 20 foreign countries.

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Holy Cross Show Choir Performs Spring Musical ‘Destination Rock ‘N Roll’

Holy Cross Episcopal School 5thand 6th-grade Show Choir recently performed a “cross-country and beyond” tour of America’s greatest music ranging from Motown to the British Invasion and all in between. The concert began with the hymn “For the Beauty of the Earth,” followed by “For Good” and “Seasons of Love” from the popular Broadway musical Rent .

Destination Rock ‘n Roll opened with featured DJs Manuel Jimenez, Ava Stuart, Hayley Whetstone, Kylie Cook, Sanai Burton, Andrew Peavy, Cullen Stuart, Hayden Whetstone, Kennedy Johnson, SuAn Kim, Broderick Williams, Emilee Alexander, Stott Blancas and Ethan Scott.

First to take the stage was none other than Elvis (Blancas), followed by Chuck Berry (Steadman Meadows), Buddy Holly (Jimenez) and Connie Francis (Burton).

The next portion of the show featured “Motown, Rockin’ in Rhythm” with Motown guys and girls (Peavy, Stuart, Scott, Kim and Whetstone), The Supremes (Alexander, Johnson and Whetstone). The British Invasion followed with The Beatles (Jacob Kendall, Peavy, Stuart and Scott) bursting on the scene with very enthusiastic girl groupies (Alexander, Johnson, Kim and Cook) in the crowd.

The Who’s Pete Townsend (Gabe Krause) mega hit “Pinball Wizard” with a celebrity appearance as Tommy (Jacob Kendall). Queen’s greatest hit featuring Stuart followed, and last but not least Bon Jovi (Meadows) rounded out the decade.

Immediately at the conclusion of the concert, Holy Cross Show Choir took their show on the road to Oak Grove Assisted Living, Angels for the Elderly, and Eastdale Estates Assisted Living. They also enjoyed a “Lunch and Bowl” break at Bama Lanes to celebrate their day before returning at the end of the school day.

Congratulations to music teacher Beverly Fain, fifth-grade teacher Connie MacDonald and sixth-grade teacher Patricia Bye for such a stellar production to end their year of performances.

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Montgomery County Schools

JD Students Serve As Legislative Pages

Several Jeff Davis High students saw state government up close when they served as senatorial pages during the Alabama Legislative Session. Shown with Gov. Kay Ivey are, from left, Kashonna Sanders, Zaria Johnson, Jasmine Atkin and Nasia Crosby.

They worked as pages for state Sens.

David Burkette and Will Barfoot.

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Macon East Inducts New Mu Alpha Theta Members

These high school students were recently inducted into Macon East Academy’s chapter of Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society: Kayle Bell, Jackson Ceman, Anne Turner Cobb, Tucker Neven, Hannah Paik, Ellie Kate Wilkerson, Emily Brooks, Bradford Nickles, Georgia Blaze, Colby Cox, Will Desmarais, Brianna Johnson, Jonathan Mathis, Tanner Moore, Emily Nickles, Aiden Steyer, Sara Stuckey and Mary Hunter Wright.

Mu Alpha Theta recognizes excellence in mathematics, and the MEA chapter is sponsored by Melissa Baker. Serving as Mu Alpha Theta officers for 2018-2019 are Nate Center, president; Jake Gracey, vice president; and Madisyn Kennedy, secretary/treasurer.

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MEA Students Attend Dixie Youth Tour

Macon East Academy was honored to have three students—Kayla Boroff, Rachel Sargent and Spencer Lindemood (unable to attend)—selected to attend this year’s Dixie Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Montgomery. During the annual youth leadership tour in March, Boroff and Sargent visited the State Capitol, met with state legislators, and enjoyed many guest speakers.

The Youth Tour is designed to teach high school juniors more about the history of Alabama and the United States, the cooperative form of business, and the legislative process. Following the three-day Montgomery tour, Boroff and Sargent were both selected to attend the weeklong Washington, D.C. Tour in June along with 1,600 other high school students from across the nation.

STJ Artists Earn Four First-Place Ribbons

Saint James high school students were awarded four first-place ribbons in the 2019 Alabama Independent School Association State Art Show this April. The four state winners were 2019 seniors: Kylie Eng, watercolor; Greta Decker, drawing / color; Virginia Williams, mixed media; and Amari Simmons, acrylic painting.

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academy Girls’ Track & Field Win State Runner-Up; Two Individual State Titles

The Montgomery Academy girls’ track & field team finished the season as Class 4A state runners-up! Individual state titles went to Lawson Pemberton on the pole vault with a jump of 13’ and Anaya Thomas on the Triple Jump with a leap of 34-10 1/2!

Saint James Students Earn Tech Savvy Status

Saint James School had twelve middle school students participate in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) Tech Fair competitionl with thirteen projects.

The students returned to campus with four top awards to share with their classmates!

The middle school award winners included: 7th-grader Bill Lewis, who received 1st place for his Digital Production Level II submission; 6th-grader Braxton Gilchrist, who received 2nd place for his Webpage Design Level I submission; 7th-grader Will Gulsby, who received 3rd place for his Digital Production Level II submission; and 8th-grader Taylor Potts, who received 3rd place for her Multimedia Level II submission.

From left are Braxton Gilchrist, Will Gulsby, Bill Lewis and Taylor Potts.

2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690

460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411

Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen Montgomery Parents I June 2019

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Bear Awarded Check for Marathon Participation

Bear Exploration Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology was awarded a check for $500 after being named for outstanding achievement in registration and participation in the 9th Annual Five Points of Life Kids Marathon for 2019. The Kids Marathon is presented

by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers partnering with the YMCA GoodTimes Program each year to bring this incredible event to the community.

More than 500 students ranging from K-8th grade participated in the fun run representing schools in Montgomery and surrounding counties. Bear had the most registrations along with highest percentage of “day-of event” participation. Coach Sue-Anne Reynolds and School Principal Elizabeth Hill encourage their students to focus on health and wellness with activities such as the annual marathon.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.

Academy Students’ Artwork Recognized by AISA

Montgomery Academy art students in all grades received recognition for their artwork at the Alabama Independent School Association District 5 Exhibition.

Lower School winners: Houghton Smith, Jane Frances Waits (two pieces), Morgan Springer (two pieces), Brooks Vinson, Mary Surhea White, Jarrett Friendly, Walter Woods, Chloe Stanton, Lillian Cameron, Anna Robinson Corley, Lucy Nelson, Suzanne Holmes and Anne Emery Smith.

Middle School winners: Allie Fitzpatrick, Kenda Bonner, Josie Aronov, Fionah Desautels, Frannie Brazil and Picasso Avezzano.

Upper School winners: Mead Robertson, Ellie Kim, Abby Baird (two pieces), Lucy Chapman, Francie Hill, Sarah H. Campbell, Sarah Barnes, Andrew Hosp and Will Hamlett.

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June is a different season for Pike Road Schools.

While we don’t have our regular student load, we do have teachers involved in professional learning, school leadership planning for the upcoming year, students involved in preparation for the upcoming year in athletics, the arts, and academia, along with construction work to improve facilities for student learning.

In many aspects, this is one of the busiest months of the year!

The upcoming school year will be an important one for Pike Road Schools, as we will celebrate the first graduating class in Pike Road Schools’ history, the Class of 2020. These bright, high performing students truly exemplify the Pike Road Way, as they have developed their abilities to think, innovate, and create!

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

The Pike Road School System is special because of outstanding, committed educators, strong community support, and parents who truly value education. We now have a broad array of Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment offerings with an exceptional record of student success, six different career education pathways available on campus, and an unsurpassed track record of student centered learning and engagement through all levels of schooling.

As an example of the quality educators at Pike Road, consider Catherine Kenny, the District 5 Elementary Teacher of the Year. Ms. Kenny is Pike Road’s second District 5 Teacher of the Year in our four years of existence. She is a phenomenal teacher who also puts in extra time as the Pike Road head robotics coach, and took a team to the Vex World Robotics Championships last year.

This past school year was the first that Pike Road High School competed in varsity sports. With no seniors, PRHS still produced strong athletic teams across the board, and had playoff teams in many sports, including football, boys basketball (sweet sixteen),

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girls basketball (elite eight), girls track (6th), boys track, cross country, wrestling, and softball (sweet sixteen). We look forward to our first year with all grades in high school and the opportunity to compete on a level playing field.

The arts program at Pike Road has also grown greatly this year. We will field our first marching band in the upcoming year, and are proud of the growth of our band program this year. We had our first high school musical this year and it was a great success.

The future is bright for Pike Road Schools! Keep an eye on us as we continue to grow and make our district the best it can be!

Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 28 years. He has earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University.

Chuck Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his ninth year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary Awards Scholarships for Community Service

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Volunteering can change communities and the individuals who do it! The Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary awarded three high school seniors from the Pike Road community with community service scholarships. The three individuals were chosen from a large pool of applicants and were honored during the auxiliary’s appreciation dinner held on April 26. Scholarship recipients are Aaron Bowen, Bailey Nyberg and Connor Higbe.

Bowen, son of Allen and Dawneese Bowen, attends Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School. He plans to attend Tuskegee University in the fall. Nyberg, daughter of Kel and Brooke Nyberg, attends Macon East Academy. She plans to attend Auburn University in the fall. Higbe, son of Tim and Chris Higbe, attends Macon East Academy. He plans to attend Huntingdon College in the fall.

Each of these students received $500. They have demonstrated a passion for volunteering while maintaining a high level of academic achievement.

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Pike Road K5 Learn About Dance

The kindergartners were studying various kinds of sports, so Tonya Speed of Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection taught them a little about ballet and tap dance.

The students were able to see a performance in ballet/contemporary style from Ashlyn Jennings, a current dance team member at TSDC, and enjoyed a tap dance by Taylor Jennings, a past team member and currently a teacher assistant at TSDC, who is employed at Disney World in the entertainment department.

Patriot Softball Patriot Softball Makes Makes Regionals Regionals During During First First Year Year The Pike Road High School softball team made it to the 3A Regionals as a first-year varsity

The Pike Road High School softball team made it to the 3A Regionals as a first-year varsity team team with with no no seniors. seniors. The The team team battled battled until until the the very very end end -- seventh seventh inning inning with with bases bases loaded loaded and and came came up up short short to to Hale Hale County.

County. These These girls girls worked worked very very hard hard and and had had a a great great season season for for such such a a young young team! team! Thank Thank you, you, Coach Coach Watson, Watson, for for your your leadership leadership on on this this team. team.

PRHS Chooses Jimmy Hitchcock Nominees

At right, Jack Fuhrman and Kirsten Hill, Pike Road High School freshman athletes, were nominated by their coaches and voted on among coaches to be considered for the Jimmy Hitchcock award program. The objectives of the program are to recognize Christian leadership in athletics and to encourage and inspire others to emulate the man whose memory is perpetuated by this award. Each year the respective coaches of each athletic squad of the senior high schools of Montgomery County nominate the athlete who has displayed the most outstanding qualities of Christian leadership in that sport.

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NASA Officials Visit PRMS

First State Champion for Pike Road High

Recently, officials from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville visited with Pike Road Middle School learners to share about the importance of the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Jody Singer, the first female director of MSPEC, spoke to learners about the many avenues that can be pursued at NASA. Singer stated, “It takes persistent pursuit and knowing that the limits placed on us are often limits we place on ourselves.”

Astronaut Joe Acaba shared entertaining stories from his three spaceflights.

Stories included how astronauts don’t shower in space, how and what they eat, as well as how they drink water.

He encouraged learners to “just go for it; we need the next generation of explorers!”

State School Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey and Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone attended the NASA assembly and encouraged learners to pursue their passions and to believe in themselves.

History was made in Cullman as Pike Road High School track participant Kaan Oliver won the 3A State Championship in the girls’ 300 meter hurdles. She also placed third in the 100 meter hurdles. Nia White took second place in class 3A for 100-meter dash and third in the long jump. Overall, the PRHS girls’ track team finished sixth at the 3A state track meet.

Teacher Appreciation @ PRS

The week of May 6-10, Pike Road Schools celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week to honor the hard work and dedication our teachers give every day. The PRS lead learners were showered with special treats all week, including breakfast provided by Woodland United Methodist Church, delicious cookies from SweetCreek Farm Market provided and delivered by Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone and town council members, and a popcorn and nacho bar provided by our very supportive PTSA.

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Pike Road Schools Spring Band Concert

Last month Pike Road Schools held a spring band concert for the middle and high school band at the new Pike Road Performing Arts Center. The audience was standing-room only, with almost 250 individuals attending the concert. Next year we will have to hold split concerts for the middle school and high school bands to accommodate the large audiences coming to see these students.

Some of the songs performed included “The Tempest,” “Star Wars,” “Darklands March,” “Happy,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Chips and Salsa” and many more. PRS Band Director Patrick Darby selected some of the songs to challenge the students musically; others were just songs that he knew they and our audience would enjoy. Other songs were specific requests by the students (“Star Wars,” “Pirates.”)

Both band groups have been working all year long improving their skills, but the music that was performed in this concert started anywhere from January to March. Most of the preparation happens in daily class rehearsals, but the bulk of the preparation comes from the students’ commitment to their practice time either before or after school, or at home.

“This is an exciting time to see how hard our band students have worked this year and how far they have come in such a short amount of time,” said Darby. “This is a very young band, mainly 7th- and 8th-graders, which means this is only the beginning. It will be so exciting to see where the band is when these students become graduating seniors from Pike Road. Needless to say, it’s going to be amazing, and they will make Pike Road proud!”

The middle school currently has 35 students and the high school has 52. These are great numbers for our first year, and these numbers will continue to grow each year.

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It is hard to believe the 20182019 school year is over! I would like to recognize, thank, and congratulate all of our retirees who have worked diligently to educate the next generation. Retiring this year are Haden Anderson, Barbara Batchelor, Bennie Bell, Jean Davis, Kim Evans, Floria Faulkner, Barbara Griffith, Rebecca Grigsby, Sharilyn Harding, Patti Hode, Tamala Horton, Annie Briggs Johnson, June Lambert, LeeAnne Lovelady, Nora McGalliard, Robin Page, Diane McCall Parker, Donald Parsons, Curtis Rouse, Diane Seamon, Gwen Warren, and Mary Wilson. I wish each of you a long, funfilled retirement. Thank you for what you have done for our students.

Each year since 1991, the Prattville YMCA has recognized outstanding Chris-

tian athletes. I am pleased to share these recognitions with you.

The 2019 FCA Leadership Circle Award winners were: Autaugaville School (AHS) – Jordan Benefield, Amber Frazier, Mardriquez TreyVon Lee, Antonio Perry, Jr., and DeWaun Stubbs Billingsley School (BHS) – Zania Binion, Tripp Glass, Leif Kicklighter, Maegan Motley, and Michaela Phillips Marbury High School (MHS) – Mary Beth Bixler, Cedric Calloway, Spencer Goss, Kaileigh Harrison, and Taylor Wyatt Prattville High School (PHS) – Haden Anderson, Will McQuiston, Tylan Perine, Alyssa Smith, and Bailey Wilson The following students received the YMCA-FCA Christian Leadership Award: Autaugaville School (AHS) – Jasmine Ross Billingsley School (BHS) – Casey Headley Marbury High School (MHS) – Megan Hollon Prattville High School (PHS) – Brandon Butts

Prattville High School’s Brandon Butts took home the distinguished Willis Bradford Christian Leadership Award.

Congratulations to these award-winning students!

The faculty at Prattville Kindergarten School (PKS) hosted their annual Family Fun and Fitness Day last month to include a parade and day-long activities for students. If you have never been to a PKS parade, you are missing out. The procession included fire trucks, police cars, and even the participation of Mayor Gillespie.

What a great place for students to experience their first year of school!

I wish each of you a safe and enjoyable summer! I look forward to the next school year and the chance to share many more outstanding accomplishments of the young people of Autauga County with you.

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Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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PCA Hires New Head Baseball Coach, Middle School Football Coach

Prattville Christian Academy has hired Tommy Goodson as head baseball coach and middle school football coach at PCA, effective June 1.

Goodson comes to PCA from Saint James School, where he served as an assistant baseball and football coach since 2014. Prior to joining the Trojans, Goodson coached at Prattville High School, earning six regional baseball championships between 2007-2012.

Goodson’s career baseball record as a head coach is 307-102.

He also helped coach the Lions to football championships in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011 and playing in the title game in 2005 and 2009.

“I’m extremely excited about the move to Prattville Christian and cannot wait to meet the student-athletes and families,” said Goodson. “Leading the baseball program is an honor and developing great young men will be my goal each day. The expectations of this program will have no limits.”

Goodson has been a part of the River Region community since he played varsity and collegiate sports at Lanier High School (’82) and Huntingdon College (’87). He is married to Cheryl Goodson and together they have two children; Morgan (24) and Madison (19).

“We are excited to bring Tommy Goodson on to lead PCA’s baseball program,” said Tara Osborne, PCA’s athletic director. “Coach Goodson has grown up in the area and brings a wealth of knowledge and contacts that will allow the program to grow. He will build on the successes of previous coaches, and take the program to the next level of play.”

PCA will host a Meet & Greet with Coach Goodson on June 6 at 6 p.m. in the gymnasium. All PCA families, media, and local community members are invited to attend.

Prattville Kindergarten Students, Teachers Celebrate End of School Year with Parade

There is an annual event that residents who live around Prattville Kindergarten in downtown Prattville look forward to every year. But, no doubt, the biggest excitement is generated from the kindergartners and their teachers who line up for the End of School Year Celebration marked by a parade. This year’s event was held May 10, with students led by their teachers and staff. They blew horns, had the perfect parade waves, some wore masks and colorful T-shirts. Thank you to first responders in Prattville, who escorted the kindergartners for safe-keeping.

Send Your school news to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

PHS Wrestling Team Announces New Name of Gym: Countryman-Miller Wrestling Facility

Prattville High School Wrestling is honored to recognize Cline Countryman and Trent Miller for their years of service to Prattville Wrestling. The Autauga County Board of Education granted the request of the Takedown Club to officially name the PHS wrestling gym the Countryman-Miller Wrestling Facility. Thank you for laying a strong foundation.

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Prattville High School Speech & Debate Team Wins Eight State Championships

The Prattville Speech and Debate Team competed April 11-13 at the Alabama Speech and Debate State Tournament held at LAMP High School and The Montgomery Academy. Competing against nineteen other schools from across Alabama, the Prattville team, for the third year in a row, won the Individual Events Team State Championship.

Overall, Prattville High Speech and Debate collected eight state championships, the second best showing in school history.

Individual Prattville winners are Grace McKelvey, triple state champion in Poetry Interpretation, Programmed Interpretation and After Dinner Speaking; Isaac Sherman, double state champion in Congressional Debate and Varsity Public Forum Debate; Sandhu Aladuwaka, state champion in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking; Will McQuiston, state champion in Impromptu Speaking and Hugh Sparks, state champion in Varsity Public Forum Debate.

Additional finalists are Aladuwaka, second place in After Dinner Speaking and fourth place in Congressional Debate; Madison Chambliss, sixth place in Original Oratory and third place in Poetry Interpretation; Jack Moore, sixth place in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking and a semi-finalist in JV Lincoln Douglas Debate; McQuiston, quarter-finalist in Novice Public Forum Debate and fourth place in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking; Sherman, third place International Extemporaneous Speaking and third place Prose Interpretation; John Tate Smyth, quarter-finalist in Novice Public Forum Debate, sixth place in International Extemporaneous Speaking and sixth place in Informational Speaking; Hugh Sparks, fourth place in Congressional Debate and fourth place in International Extemporaneous Speaking and Brooke Turley, fourth place in Dramatic Interpretation and fourth place in Programmed Interpretation.

The next competition for the Prattville team is the National Speech and Debate Tournament in Dallas, Texas, June 17-21. National qualifiers Aladuwaka, McKelvey, Sherman and Sparks will join more than 5,000 of the best forensic students in the country as well as globally. The Prattville team is coached by Katy Olienyk and Jordan Berry.

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Jasmine Rives of MHS Signs Softball Scholarship to Attend Huntingdon

Marbury High School senior Jasmine Rives, daughter of Marilyn Bruton and Thomas Rives, signed a softball scholarship to Huntingdon College in front of friends and family on April 22 in the Marbury High School Media Center.

Rives has been playing softball for six years. She was part of the Prattville Girls Softball League and has won awards such as a Leadership Award, the Eagle Eye Award, and was named as a player on the All-Star team for five of her six years.

When Rives is not playing softball, she is involved in several activities both in and out of school. She is part of the Spanish Club, and has been part of the JROTC program and served in Guatemala with her church. She was also on the girls’ basketball team at MHS during her junior year. Rives plans to major in biochemistry while at Huntingdon and then earn her master’s and doctorate in genetics at UAB.

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The 2018-2019 school year has ended, and 765 graduates have received diplomas signaling the end of their K-12 academic careers. I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments of these students!

The Elmore County High School senior class of 120 students was awarded $2.75 million in scholarships.

Five graduates will enter military service, and 65 percent are college-bound. Jamie Singleton recently received the overall Joe Sewell Award for his Christian leadership in athletics, Madison Traylor received the top girls’ athlete award, and Grace Barlet received the top girls’ academic award. ECHS also had the first student ever to graduate with a high school diploma and a Short-Term Certificate in Welding from Central Alabama Community College.

The Holtville High School senior class of 120 students has earned $2.5 million in scholarships. Ten members of this class will

enter military service, and over half will pursue post-secondary education.

Stanhope Elmore High School’s senior class of 256 students has been awarded and $7,194,576 in scholarships. Twenty-three graduates will enter the military, and approximately half of the class will attend college.

Lastly, the 269 students in Wetumpka High School’s senior class have earned over $10 million in scholarships. Fifteen students will enter military service, and 69 percent will pursue post-secondary education.

Our students have taken advantage of a wide variety of course offerings, including Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, and/ or Career-Technical Education courses and are well prepared to enter college or the work force. They have collectively earned scholarship offers totaling nearly $22.5 million! Congratulations to our graduates and we wish you well in your new endeavors!

In addition to their coursework, these students have been involved in a host of extracurricular activities including sports, band, cheerleading, performing arts, academic honor societies, special interest clubs, and service

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organizations. Extracurricular programs are invaluable in students’ development academically, socially, and emotionally. Students who participate in extracurricular activities generally have a more positive high school experience and are better prepared to be productive citizens after they leave our schools. Encourage your child(ren) to participate in the extracurricular activities that best fit their skills and interests – they can be life-changing!

One of my favorite aspects of the K-12 education profession is that end of each school year provides an opportunity to reflect, to identify areas for improvement, and make a fresh start at the beginning of the next year.

We intend to take full advantage of this time to reflect and fine-tune to ensure that we provide our students with the best possible opportunities to learn, grow, and achieve their maximum potential in the upcoming school year!

Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

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Elmore County Schools

Eclectic Elementary April Students of the Month

Kindergarten: Noah Donahey, Jaycee Lucas, Aiden Smith, Ashton Achason, Damion Amacker, Aleyah Daniels 1st grade: Bristol, G.W. Simpson, Alice Buckley, Erica Brown, Chloe Graham 2nd grade: Brooks Moseley, Sawyer Dutotn, Eason Clark, Bentley Temple 3rd grade: Maeleigh Futral, Conner Lanier, Brailey Moncrief, Caitlyn Stone, Aubrey Ogles, Jon Cooper Lucas 4th grade: Baylee King, Caroline Hill, Braelynne Parker, Savanna Burch

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Multiple SkillsUSA Competitors Place At State Conference

Seven students from Elmore County Technical Center placed in the top three in the state competitions at the Alabama SkillsUSA Conference, including four 3rd-place medals, one 2nd-place medal, and two state champion 1st-place medals. Students earning 1st-place medals are eligible to compete at the National Leadership and Skills Conference in Louisville, Kentucky in June.

Above are students from the electrical technology program. From left, Trey, Philip, instructor Jason Harris, and Adam.

Below are students from the computer technology program. From left, Carter, Matthew, Tony and Preston.

These are some of the competitors from those two programs—several of whom placed in the Top Three.

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

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Wetumpka High Anglers Grab First Place at ASABFA Classic

Wetumpka High School students Jay Shipp and LJ Harkless finished in first place at the 2019 Alabama Student Anglers Bass Fishing Association state championship on Lake Jordan. The two combined to record the highest weight total of any boat across the two-day event.

The 200-team event was the final tournament of the 2019 ASABFA season and the Shipp-Harkless duo added 300 points to Wetumpka’s total in the final standings. It was the highest finish of any Wetumpka team during the season and the Indians moved into 12th place of the state championship standings, finishing 391 points behind state champion Briarwood.

Shipp and Harkless finished the weekend with a total weight of 33.22 pounds, finishing 1.35 pounds ahead of the closest competition.

Wetumpka had three total teams finish in the top 100 of the tournament. Hudson McKenzie and Jacob Callen totaled 21.86 pounds to finish as the 79th boat, while Pierce Robinson and Koby Barnhill finished 92nd overall.

Holtville was also represented in the tournament by five teams including three boats finishing in the top 100. Ella Forbus and Wesley Harris weighed in at 23.16 pounds to finish 57th, leading the Bulldogs to finish 16th in the final team standings.

Shown, Wetumpka’s LJ Harkless and Jay Shipp.

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Holtville Field Day Cool Success

Holtville Elementary School recently held Field Day. The community supplied water for all students and volunteers. A special thank you to Lowe’s in Wetumpka and all parents that helped by donating water.

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Film Festival Showcases Student Films at Academy Days Co-op

The recent Academy Days Co-op Film Festival showcased short films produced by homeschoolers in the filmmaking class. Student directors, actors and scriptwriters enjoyed walking the red carpet and sharing their films with an audience of fellow homeschoolers and parents. Audience members voted on the best picture, script, actor and actress. Winners were, front from left: Isabel Martin, Madilyn Self, Ryder Collins, Elias Colburn, Rinoa Angell and Kailey Franklin; and back, Antonio Martin, Pearson Hammock and Callee Winters.

The Academy Days Co-op, held weekly during the school year at Coosada Baptist Church, is designed for preschool through high school students to learn subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group settings. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information.

Remaining 2019 Dates: July 13, September 14, October 28, and December 14.

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Elmore County Schools

Victory Students Participate in National Competition

Students from Victory Christian Academy competed in the 42nd annual American Association of Christian Schools (AACS) National Competition held at Bob Jones University in Greenville, S.C., April 9-11. Approximately 2,100 students and sponsors from 29 states participated in the AACS National Competition. The students, representing almost 200 Christian high schools, competed in 76 categories in the five basic areas of Bible, music, speech, art and academics.

The following students won first place in the Alabama Association of Christian Schools and were able to compete in the national competition: Brooke Freundschuh, Kerri Waldo (Prattville), Speech Category (Dramatic Interpretation); Lonnie Hollon (Deatsville), Spelling; Luke Hollon (Deatsville), Science Fair; and Micah Smith (Prattville), Speech Category (Humorous Interpretation) Micah Smith won first place nationwide for humorous interpretation, and Lonnie Hollon placed second in the AACS spelling bee. Micah also showcased in front of an audience at BJU, as well as a live stream audience, and received a standing ovation for his performance.

Victory Christian Academy (originally established as Victory Baptist School in 1971) is a fundamental Christian school dedicated to training tomorrow’s Christian leaders. It enrolls 180 students annually, grades K-12. Victory Christian Academy provides, “An accredited Christian education in a safe environment at an affordable price.”

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Airport Road Holds ‘Under the Sea’ Art Night

Airport Road Intermediate School had its annual art night April 25. The theme of this year’s art night was “Under the Sea.” The wonderfully creative art was on display for all parents and visitors to see and purchase. The night was also full of wonderful performances by the ARIS Dance Team and ARIS Choir.

Why not try church this Sunday?

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Montgomery Parents I June 2019

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Airport Road Intermediate Holds Successful Field Day

The two most anticipated and exciting days took place at Airport Road Intermediate School on April 30 and May 1. Field Day 2019 was held for all third- and fourth-graders! It is a day where students can be teammates, competitors and most of all kids! This year’s class winners were: 4th grade—1st place Mrs. Edwards’s class, 2nd place Ms. Loper’s class, and 3rd Mrs. Dunkerson’s class. In 3rd grade our winners were: 1st place Mrs. Gillis’s class, 2nd place Mrs. Marshall’s class, and 3rd Ms. Winchester’s class. The physical education teachers work very hard to get ready for this event and we thank all of the parent volunteers as well.

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Holtville Student Council Thanks Cafeteria Staff

The Holtville Elementary Student Council provided the cafeteria staff with breakfast as a thank you for being the best cafeteria staff and always working hard to provide them with wonderful meals.

Airplane Donation to Aviation Program

Clipper Air, Inc. donated multiple airplane parts, including the fuselage, to the aviation program at Elmore County Technical Center.

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TheCollegeYears Preparing Teens for Life Outside the Nest

by Lee Gonet

Don’t Bribe Your Way Into Top Colleges Here’s Your Plan: Part 2

By Kathleen Sport, Guest Columnist Last month I told you the story about my two boys and their wildly different college admission experiences. My older son earned ZERO merit scholarship offers and started at a community college, while my younger son received $1.4 million in renewable merit scholarship offers as well as a full-merit scholarship from a competitive school (tuition+fees+room+board). This month I’m going to tell you, in broad terms, what made the difference.

The Hook

Students with certain “hooks” stand a much better chance of being admitted: low-income, underrepresented minority (non-Asian), recruited athlete, wealthy potential donor, early-decision applicant (binding enrollment agreement), international student (full-pay), or legacy (parents’ alma mater).

Neither of my boys fit any of those categories, so the published admission stats did NOT apply to them. The stats for “unhooked” students will be LOWER, so those kids will have to work harder to stand out in the sea of sameness.

High-School Rigor

More students are going to college, but most colleges haven’t increased the number of admission slots. Enter the arms race. Course selection in junior high and high school can impact college admission chances. Rigor matters. My son took Algebra 1 as an 8th grader, which is fairly common. He also took Honors and AP courses when available.

Note: It’s better to get an A in a regular class than to get a B in an honors/AP class.

If your children don’t take any honors/AP courses, they won’t get into any top colleges, but a second tier school might grab them. But even a second tier school isn’t going to take a student with all B’s. Protect your child’s GPA above all else.

Extra-Curricular

Some activities are better than others.

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Colleges want leaders who will create opportunity where none exists. My son started a school club his sophomore year, so he was able to put “Founder and President” on his resume. He also made sure the club engaged in substantive projects for three years.

Additionally, he interned in criminal law his sophomore year, worked for a state Senate campaign his junior year, and volunteered for a state Congressional campaign in both his junior/senior years. His Model UN team competed at the National High School Model UN conference in NYC, and his Mock Trial team placed 6th nationally. He is also a member of seven honor societies.

Test Scores

ACT or SAT? With or without the writing section? Schools will say they’re optional but they’re really not. Take a diagnostic exam to see which is easier, the ACT or SAT, and then prep for it exclusively. This matters greatly for admission and meritscholarship consideration.

My son went to Lee Gonet’s ACT prep course, which he followed with 5 weeks of full-time, intensive ACT prep, using materials I researched and purchased. All told, he spent 200+ hours on ACT prep for the last two (of 5) exams he took. He made a 34 composite and scored 11/12 on the writing section.

Merit Awards

Students in a college’s top 25% cohort will generally receive merit awards.

Students in a school’s top 5% cohort will get the best merit awards. Create a strategic list and target wisely. My son applied only to schools where he was at minimum in the top 25% of the applicant pool. For the schools that invited him to compete for full merit scholarships, he was in the top 1-5%.

Personal Connections

Colleges are marketing to your child, so market your child to colleges. Starting in the autumn of my son’s sophomore year, we 66

traveled to college fairs in Atlanta because many colleges don’t recruit in Alabama.

We then looked at the admission stats for different schools, and my son started building a relationship with admissions’ counselors at target schools. Late in his junior year, he built relationships with professors and department heads. He knew everyone personally, and he shared updates with them about his activities, etc.

Campus Visits

Have a well-orchestrated game plan for college visits. My son contacted professors of interest, department heads, admissions officers, and he let all of them know he was coming to visit. Because he’d built relationships, many schools scheduled private tours and lunches with student ambassadors, in addition to the private meetings my son scheduled.

Because of the personal attention, he was able to truly “kick the tires” to see if the school was for him. Quite a few professors and department heads became strong advocates because my son scheduled the meetings and campus visits himself. He displayed independence, initiative, and he “sold” himself.

Free Workshop

If you’d like to know specifics, I’ll be presenting with Lee Gonet at a FREE college admission workshop on Saturday, July 6 from 8:00 AM - Noon at Mountain View Baptist Church located at 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka, 36093. Bring a friend, bring your questions, get them answered!

Kathleen Sport is married with two boys and lives in Montgomery, Alabama. She provides college admission counseling for high-school students of all abilities who live in multiple states. You can contact her by emailing sportcollegeadmissions@gmail.com.

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Lee Gonet is an avid learner, speaker, educator, and world traveler. She loves challenging teenagers to excel beyond what society considers possible by teaching young people to think deeply, learn intensely, and act purposefully outside the classroom box. For example, her daughter worked abroad by 16 and her son earned his Engineering Master’s by 20. Dreams do come true. If you would like to learn more about Lee or her ACT Prep Classes, go to leestestprep.com!

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Trinity School is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution providing students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, award-winning fine arts program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. The Trinity Experience is extraordinary in every way—an education that is as unique as your child.

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It doesn’t matter who my father was; it matters who I remember he was. -- Anne Sexton Fathers play a significant role in kid’s lives. They’re important role models, influence children’s self-esteem and school performance, and make great coaches and fun-loving playmates.

Father’s Day is just around the corner, so don’t be caught scrambling for the perfect way to show you care. Try some of these ideas to show your dad just how important he is to you.

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

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Video Surprise – Make a “World’s Best Dad” video he’ll treasure for years to come. Put on your brainstorming cap for your own ideas, or try some of these ideas for your video. Share special memories of your dad, sing to him, read him a poem, or do skits. Get the whole family involved and conduct interviews with each other with Dad as the main topic. Don’t forget your props such as a banner or collection of his prized possessions, including sports trophies or equipment to add a personal touch.

Most importantly, be sure to let him know just how much he means to you in your video.

helped you to become the person you are today, and what he means to you. Then print it on stationary, matte and frame it.

Musical Moment– Take your father to see his favorite band or performing artist, enjoy a jazz or blues festival, or pack up some lawn chairs, and enjoy a local concert-in-the-park.

Togetherness Takes Two – Has your dad been putting off the dreaded task of cleaning out his attic, basement, or garage? Give him a gift of shelving materials and brackets, wall racks and ceiling hooks, and storage crates. Then spend the day helping him to get it organized while catching up on old times.

King for the Day – It isn’t every day your dad gets waited on hand and foot. Offer to be his loyal servant for the day. Bring him coffee and toast in bed; fetch his newspaper; lay out his clothes, bath towel, and mat; be host or hostess and serve him beverages and snacks; clean up after him and anything else to give him the royal treatment.

World’s Greatest – Let dad know that he’s the greatest 365 days a year! Give him a “World’s Greatest Dad” coffee mug, t-shirt, book cover, bookmarker, wallet card, or another trinket that he’ll see or use regularly.

Memories of Dad – Purchase a scrapbook, and create a record of memories about you and your dad. Include photos of special outings, events, and holidays you’ve had together. Also include other memorabilia such as concert or sporting event ticket stubs, postcards, and brochures. Next to each photo or item, describe your memories of those special times with your father.

Sports Buff’s Surprise – Take your dad for a sporting good time. Play a game of golf, tennis, or basketball, go fishing at the river’s edge, or enjoy a paddle around a lake. If being a spectator is more his thing, buy tickets to his favorite sporting event such as a baseball or soccer game, boxing match, or auto race.

A Man to Remember – Get your creative juices flow-

other on a camping trip for two. Either rough it in a tent or rent a mini cabin at a state park. Spend your weekend enjoying nature hikes, sightseeing, fishing, boating, playing cards, and taking it easy together.

Weekend Getaway – Get in touch with nature and each

ing, and write a poem for your dad. You don’t need to be a poet to come up with a few thoughtful words to say how much he means. Describe the impact he’s had on your life, how he’s

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Take a Stroll – Enjoy a peaceful walk in the park or the country together.

Better yet, gather your bikes or roller blades, hit a scenic bike path, and enjoy the fresh summer air.

Certificates of Appreciation – Show Dad you appreciate his hard work by returning the favor. Make coupons that say: “In appreciation for all that you do, Dad. Redeem this certificate for a hassle-free car wash by me!” Other favors include sweeping out the garage, mowing the lawn, or any other task he normally handles.

Catch a Flick…..or two – Treat your dad to a movie fest. Rent a couple newly released videos or some of his longtime favorites. Or head to the cinemas for a double feature. Whether you take the movies in at home or the theater, don’t forget the hot, buttered popcorn, candy, and soft drinks.

Get in Touch with His Soft Side – Give your dad a book of poetry specially written for fathers. Try one of these: Fathers: A Collection of Poems

by David Ray and Judy Ray Father’: Collected Poems

by Ken Koprowski Thoughts to Share With a Wonderful Father: A Collection of Poems

by Blue Mountain Arts Collections

A Gift of Giving – Does your dad Father’s Day Feast – As the old adage goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. So treat dad to a mouth-watering meal on the barbecue. Fix him his favorite: steak, ribs, chicken, burgers, or chops for starters. Don’t forget the grilled potatoes or squash, garlic bread or rolls, fresh green beans or asparagus, sweet corn, potato salad, and last but not least, his favorite dessert.

Pamper Him – What better way to show your appreciation for all his hard Montgomery Parents I June 2019

work than to indulge him? Give your father a gift certificate for a professional massage, which will be sure to please.

Just the Two of Us – Put together a photo collage of you and your father.

There are many ways to do this. Find instructions at your nearby craft store and create a Decoupage photo collage.

Keep it simple with a multi-photo frame, or purchase a unique 3D photo collage frame. These are available and art and craft supply stores and online.

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have a favorite cause or charity such as the Humane Society, the Nature Conservancy, or American Cancer Society? If so, why not give him a membership or make a donation in his name? Remember small donations add up and are always appreciated. mp

Kimberly Blaker is a professional lifestyle and parenting freelance writer. She also does B2C and B2B copywriting. Find her at www.kimberlyblaker.com.

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6 Surprising Apps Kids Can Use to Chat with Friends

(The browser version doesn’t offer chat.) If you’re allowing your kid to use Instagram, the best thing to do is use restrictive privacy settings to limit the number of people who can find and contact your kid. These include making the account private, preventing people from replying to your stories, and turning off comments. To do this, click on your kid’s profile image, click on the three lines at the top of the screen, click Settings at the bottom of the screen, and then tap Privacy and Security.

You may be fine with your kid doing a little online socializing. But what if they’re chatting on sites and in apps that never occurred to you to spot-check or discuss because you thought your kid was just using them for homework, playing games, or watching videos? Now, direct messaging is the rule -- not the exception -- on most platforms. And, as usual, parents seem to be the last ones to know.

Here are some of the popular platforms you may not have realized kids are using to chat.

Roblox. With 90 million monthly users, Roblox is a pretty happenin’ hangout spot. The developer encourages collaboration and connection and offers chat for all members.

What you can do. All chat on Roblox is filtered, and players younger than 12 have stronger filters than older players. You can turn off chat as well as other friending and messaging options to limit conversation. But you can’t lock the settings, so kids can change them back. Go to your kid’s account and click Settings, then click Privacy.

The chat settings are under Contact Settings.

Animal Jam. To sign up for this virtual world, a kid only needs to enter a username and password -- no parent approval required -- and they can chat immediately after creating a login.

What you can do. Though Animal Jam uses filters and human monitors to keep a lid on iffy conversations, kids can be fairly inventive in getting around them. If you want to let your kid play on Animal Jam, it’s worth going through the step of registering your email address to access its free parental controls. You get three levels of chat ranging from pre-approved phrases to open chat, but you can’t limit their chatting to friends only.

Snapchat. Yes, “chat” is in the name, but this app got popular more for its disappearing messages, cool photo filters, and Snapstreaks than its chatting. Messages in Snapchat are automatically deleted after the recipient views them, unless the sender taps on them to save them.

What you can do. Just like in Instagram, you can’t turn off chat but you can limit who can contact your kids and who can view their stories, which should reduce some conversation and make your kid’s overall screen time somewhat easier to manage. Go to the profile page and click the gear icon. Scroll down to “Who can” to enable privacy settings.

Google Docs. Although teachers have been aware of the problem, using Google Docs as a covert messaging app has finally gotten popular enough to get on parents’ radar. If your kid needs to use Google Docs for homework, they only need to share the document with someone to start chatting.

What you can do. Chatting in Google Docs is mostly risky because it wastes time kids should be using to do actual work. But there have been some reports of kids cyberbullying other students in Google Docs shared for group projects -- partly because it’s a place no one would think to look for that kind of behavior. In general, you want to make sure your kid is using their time wisely and not getting caught up in idle chitchat or drama. If the chatting is getting out of control, you can remove people from a shared document. To do this, click the Share button and then click Advanced at the bottom of the window.

Click the X next to the name of the person you want to remove. If the document was created by someone else and you don’t control, have your kid make a copy and not share it.

Waze. Waze is a mapping app, but it relies on people as well as traffic data to help you find routes to places, avoid congestion, and, yes, chat -- and not just about the traffic. Waze connects through Facebook and allows you to see where your friends are and coordinate arrival times to your destination. Because it reveals your kid’s location -- and not all of their Facebook friends are actual buddies -- there’s a risk kids can expose their whereabouts to people who really don’t need to know.

What you can do. Use Waze with your kids. That way you can see where they are, and they can see where you are (which is helpful when you’re picking them up from school, for example). Waze offers a few privacy settings, such as the ability to be “invisible” so you can’t be seen on a map (that would prevent you from seeing your kid’s location, though), and you can also turn off both public and private chats separately, so you can decide which settings are safest for your kids. Also, if your kid drives, make sure they don’t use the app while driving, and consider turning on voice command so they can interact hands-free.

Instagram. If you’re wondering why your kid is spending so much time on Instagram, maybe they’re using it to chat. Users only have to click the Send icon (it looks like a paper airplane) at the top of the app or within any message to start chatting.

What you can do. You can’t block chatting in the Instagram app.

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Moving a family is stressful and if the relocation comes with another emotional event like a death in the family, divorce or job loss, the transition hardly feels like a party. While it probably won’t be immediately obvious, with careful planning and generous discussion, your child can benefit from a move.

According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), “With the proper attention from parents and professional help if necessary, moving can be a positive growth experience for children, leading to increased self confidence and interpersonal skills.”

Here’s how to ease the transition for your children.

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Tip #1: Discuss the move as soon as possible.

Stay positive, explaining why relocation is necessary. Discuss the perks of your new home’s location. Help your child learn about the area with resources like maps, photographs and the daily newspaper.

Tip #2: Say your good-byes.

A week or two before you move, throw a farewell party to give you and your family an opportunity to officially bid friends and neighbors adieu, exchange contact information and take pictures. Keep refreshments simple, like delivery pizza or sandwiches and refreshments.

Peer groups are especially important the older your child. Host a slumber party for your child to say good-bye to close friends. Provide a keepsake pillow case for your child’s friends to doodle and autograph with fabric markers.

Create a memory book for your kids or provide them with a few craft supplies to make their own. They could include pictures of their friends and memorable outings. Ask their friends, teachers, coaches, and other people they’ll miss to sign it.

Tip #3: Revisit favorite haunts.

Whether a park, zoo or local eatery, take time to honor the places your family enjoyed most. Together make a list of your family’s favorite hot spots you each want to visit before departure day. Make a video journal or a photo book documenting the outings.

Tip #4: Coordinate moving day.

Ask the movers to load your children’s rooms last so their things come off the truck first at your new home. Consider hiring a sitter or enlisting a family friend to watch your kids while working with the movers. Unpack your children’s rooms first which can help ease initial anxieties by surrounding them with their personal and familiar belongings.

Tip #5: Celebrate a new chapter.

On the first night in your new house, organize a “Family Fun Night” with pizza and games to celebrate a new beginning together.Invite your child to help make choices about his new room’s decor. Return to the comfort of old routines like regular meal times and naps as soon as possible.

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Tip #6: Use technology... with boundaries.

Help your child use technology like Skype or Facebook’s video app to stay in touch with old friends and extended family.

Keep extended family and close friends updated on how your family is settling in via email or a private blog. Discourage older children from spending too much time on social networking sites. Seeing their friends returning to life without them can be painful and reinforce a sense of loneliness.

Tip #7: Get acquainted.

Take walks around your new neighborhood. The exercise and fresh air will help relieve stress and familiarize you and your children with your new surroundings. Play outside on nice days. Chances are you and your kids will meet a few neighbors.

After settling in, invite a few neighbors over for a potluck barbecue.

Tip #8: Prepare your child for a new school.

Before the first day, make an appointment for you and your child to tour his new school and meet his teacher. Shop for required school supplies and go over the school day schedule, including pickup and drop-off procedures with your child.

If possible, connect your child with other children her age in the neighborhood or through an extracurricular activity before school starts. A few familiar faces can help ease the transition to a new school.

Tip #9: Integrate into your new community.

Volunteer in your neighborhood, your child’s school/daycare, your church or other community organizations. Check with your library, your child’s preschool/ daycare, your church or online to find parenting support networks in your area that fit your personality, needs and parenting philosophy. Devote at least one weekend day each month for your family to explore and discover a new restaurant, museum, park or attraction in your new community. mp

Raised in a military family, freelance journalist, wife and mother of two, Christa Melnyk Hines has lived and traveled in Europe and across the U.S. Her latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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New Homes Starting in the Mid $200s 334.215.9215 | newparkliving.com

Between Ray Thorington Road and Taylor Road

SALES OFFICE LOCATED AT 1361 BARRET PARK WAY 77

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YMCA Montgomery + ad on page 29

Numerous locations in Montgomery Choose from many of our programs: Childcare & Early Learning, Fitness, Swimming, Camps, Youth Sports, Adult Sports, Youth Programs, Senior Programs and Adventure Guides. Please visit our website for more information about our 12 locations what they have to offer.

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ymcamontgomery.org (334) 269.4362

YMCA Prattville

+ ad on page 58

Five locations in Prattville We offer Childcare, Education and Leadership, Swim, Sports & Play and Camp. Please visit our website for more information on our 5 locations and pricing. prattvilleymca.org (334) 365.5582

Where to Play

Ice Palace at Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery Skate indoors year round. shopmalls.com (334) 277.2088

JoJo’s Mini Golf & Frozen Yogurt 165 Red Eagle Drive Wetumpka Locally owned Mini Golf course with 18 holes. We have fresh yogurt and gelato!

Facebook Jojo’s Mini Golf and Frozen Yogurt (334) 514.8951

Fun for Kids

Launch Trampoline Park 891 Boardroom Drive Prattville Trampoline courts, Laser Tag, Arcade and more.

2211 Ultimate Playzone + ad on page 55

3541 McGehee Road Montgomery Great place for some family fun! Roller skating and large Fun Zone for kids to join in with handson activities.

launchtrampolinepark.com (334) 568.2041

Rockin Jump 5544 Atlanta Highway Montgomery Open trampoline park. Café provided for parents. rockinjump.com (334) 239.2587

Alabama Nature Center 3050 Lanark Road Wetumpka Outdoor facility that offers nature walks, educational programs, Day Camps, Homeschool programs and seasonal programs. alabamawildlife.org (334) 285.4550

Coosa Outdoor Center 172 River Road Wetumpka Everything you need for some fun on the Coosa!

Rentals, Campgrounds and Event sites available. coosaoutdoorcenter.com (334) 201.5510

Coosa River Adventures 415 Company Street Wetumpka Paddle along the Coosa River for fun. We offer rentals of all types for your adventure. coosariveradventures.com (334) 514.0279

Lagoon Park & Golf 2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery Gorgeous 18-hold public golf course. Amenities include: lighted driving range, chipping and putting area and private lessons. playmontgomerygolf.com (334) 240.4050

Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Sports Club 4758 Wetumpka Road Wetumpka Choose from clay courses, covered 5-stand, wobble trap, skeet field, and pheasant hunts.

2211ultimateplayzone.com (334) 593.7180

lwssc.com (334) 420.3371

Newtopia + ad on page 57

3731 Malcolm Drive Montgomery Large indoor play arena with many activities for your children to enjoy.

Café with free wifi available for parents to sit back and relax while their children play.

newtopiafunpark.com (334) 356.4518

Pump It Up

+ ad on page 76

1029 Lagoon Business Loop Montgomery Large indoor inflatables park for kids. Open play time during the week with birthday parties scheduled for weekends. pumpitupparty.com (334) 277.5678

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Montgomery Bicycle Club Recreational and competitive bicycling promoted for the Central AL area and increase bicycle safety awareness. Rides listed on our website. mgmbikeclub.org

Recreation O’ Connor Tennis Center + ad on page 87

500 Anderson Street Montgomery O’Connor Tennis Center features a 12 court facility + two 36’ courts for children. Ben Bradshaw is a certified USPTA Elite professional who teaches private lessons. Multiple tennis lessons and clinics available. Please visit our website for more information. oconnortenniscenter.com (334) 240.4884

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Montgomery Miracle League Where every child deserves a chance. We provide opportunities for children and adults with physical/cognitive disabilities. montgomeryamerican.com (334) 300.1088

River Region Runners Dedicated to serving all levels of runners. Be kept up to date on local runs, receive discounts on runs and merchandise, build friendships. riverregionrunners.org (334) 595.9786

Swayback Bike Trail Jordan Dam Road Wetumpka On the shores of Lake Jordan offering 12 miles of biking/hiking. trailoflegends.org (334) 567.9090

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YMCA Wetumpka 200 Red Eagle Drive Wetumpka Aquatics, before and after school childcare, Summer Day Camps and Youth Sports. ymcamontgomery.org (334) 567.8282

funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2300

Rotary Dog Park Rotary Street Montgomery Dog park located downtown near the Riverfront.

Features water fountains dog sized and separate areas for large and small dogs. funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2300

Vaughn Road Park 3620 Vaughn Road Montgomery Boundless playgrounds, tennis courts and walking trails and large open play space. funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2300

Performing Arts Centers & Theatres

Blount Cultural Park 3 Festival Drive Montgomery Open play area and miles of walking trails.

Shakespeare Garden, Dog Park and ponds. funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2300

Ida Bell Young Park 5400 Vaughn Road Montgomery Playground, tennis courts and walking trails.

Picnic area and bathrooms available. funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2300

Lagoon Park 2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery 5 miles of biking and walking trails, playgrounds, batting cages and tennis courts.

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pet. Separate areas for large and small dogs.

Benches and shade available.

funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2100

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prattvilleal.gov (334) 595.0080

Riverfront Park 335 Coosa Street Montgomery Splash pad, river boat rides, concerts at the Amphitheatre and Biscuits Baseball nearby.

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Pratt Park 460 Doster Road Prattville Walking trails, “A Child’s Place” Playground, Splash pad and community pool.

funinmontgomery.com (334) 240.4050

Memorial Center Park 3168 Park Circle Millbrook Walking trails, creek and Kids Kingdom Playground. cityofmillbrook.org (334) 285.7277

Parks for Dogs Cooter’s Pond 1844 Cooter’s Pone Prattville Located on the banks of the river. Fenced in area for your pups to play with shade and fountains. prattvilleal.gov (334) 595.0800

Hannah Daye Ridling Bark Park 6055 Vaughn Road Montgomery 5 acre park made especially for your furry

Alabama Shakespeare Festival + ad on page 43

1 Festival Drive Montgomery A beautiful vision built by one of the locals.

People from all over come to visit ASF and enjoy many of the plays throughout the year. Also offering acting classes and camps for children. asf.net 1 (800) 841.4273

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Capri Theatre 1045 East Fairview Avenue Montgomery One of the oldest remaining theatres in Montgomery. Please check our website for playlist. capritheatre.org (334) 262.4858

Cloverdale Playhouse 960 Cloverdale Road Montgomery Performing arts center in the Cloverdale Historic District. Educational programs available. cloverdaleplayhouse.org (334) 262.1530

Davis Theatre for Performing Arts 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery Beautiful historic theatre that hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year.

Facebook: Troy University’s Davis Theatre ( 334) 241.9567

Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery Large auditorium located in the Renaissance Hotel for traveling performers and artists. Visit our website for concert and performance dates. mpaconline.org (334) 481.5100

Prattville Cultural Arts Center: Way Off Broadway Theatre 203 West 4th Street Prattville Community theatre in Prattville that puts on several performances a year. prattvilleal.gov (334) 595.0850

Wetumpka Depot Players 300 South Main Street Wetumpka Live performances by local actors. Junior group performances. wetumpkadepot.com (334) 868.1140

Civil Rights Memorial Center 400 Washington Avenue Montgomery The Civil Rights Memorial was built to honor the 41 people killed in the struggle for equal and integrated treatment of all people. splcenter.org

Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church 454 Dexter Avenue Montgomery Known for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s hope and change speech. dexterkingmemorial.com (334) 263.3970

First White House of the Confederacy 644 Washington Avenue Montgomery The residence where President Jefferson Davis and his family resided when the Confederate States of American was in Montgomery. firstwhitehouse.org (334) 242.1861

Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park 2521 W. Fort Toulouse Road Wetumpka Historic Fort near the City of Wetumpka founded by the French in 1717. fttoulousejackson.org (334) 567.3002

Harriott II Riverboat 255 Commerce Street Montgomery Relax and go back in history on the Harriott II Riverboat. Scenic lunch and dinner cruises. funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2100

Jasmine Hill Gardens 3001 Jasmine Hill Road Wetumpka Beautiful botanical garden located in Wetumka.

Open to the public most days of the week. jasminehill.org (334) 567.6463

Meteor Crater 408 S. Main Street Wetumpka One of the greatest natural disasters in the history of Alabama. Come see the 5 mile wide impact crater. meteorcrater.com (334) 567.5147

Local Attractions Alabama Department of Archive & History 624 Washington Avenue Montgomery Take a glimpse into Alabama’s past with valuable preserved records and artifacts at the Alabama Department of Archives and History. archives.state.al.us (334) 242.4435

Alabama State Capitol 600 Dexter Avenue Montgomery Schedule a tour of one of the oldest capitols and learn about the history of Alabama. ahc.alabama.gov (334) 242.3184

Biscuits Baseball 200 Coosa Street Montgomery Come join us for a great season of Biscuits Baseball at the Riverwalk Stadium. Concessions available. Fireworks after scheduled games. milb.com (334) 323.2255

Centre for African American Culture 1345 Carter Hill Road Montgomery Offers classroom instruction and curriculum through its living museum, seminars, and publications. Is open to all who are interested in studying the modern civil rights movement. lib.alasu.edu (334) 229.4824

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery This 40 acre zoo is divided into 5 continents. Ride the skylift, rent a paddle boat, take a train or walk the beautifully landscaped pathways to view over 500 animals. montgomeryzoo.com (334) 240.4900

National Memorial for Peace and Justice 417 Carolina Street Montgomery Dedicated to the legacy of enslaved African Americans. Reflect America’s history of racial inequality. museumandmemorial.eji.org (334) 386.9100

Old Alabama Town 301 Columbus Street Montgomery Old Alabama Town is a collection of restored 19th and 20th Century structures that display the lives of the people who settled and developed Central Alabama. oldalabamatown.com (334) 240.4500

The Alley 133 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery Modeled after New Orleans, the Alley offers unique restaurants, bars and shops. alleystation.com (334) 387.3333

W.A. Gayle Planetarium 1010 Forest Avenue Montgomery Auditorium setting with a 50 foot domed ceiling.

View the planets, sky and many other show throughout the year. Located in the beautiful Oak Park. montgomery.troy.edu/planet (334) 625.4799

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Annual Events July thru September Broadway Under the Stars Blount Cultural Park Montgomery A night filled with music from some of your Broadway favorites. Come prepared with blankets, chairs, coolers and food for this free concert. montgomerysymphony.org (334) 240.4004

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Local River Region 4th of July Events Please visit City of Millbrook, Montgomery, Pike Road, Prattville and Wetumpka for their 4th of July Events. Check out our 4th of July listing in this issue.

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Russell Lands Fourth of July Blast Lake Martin Amphitheatre Eclectic Russell Lands puts on a show annually at Lake Martin. Fun filled night with concerts and huge firework display. Beautiful if viewed from the lake or amphitheater.

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russelllandsonlakemartin.com (256) 397.1019

Wetumpka River and Blues Festival Gold Star Park Wetumpka Annual free event usually held in July features arts, crafts, music and more!

Facebook under Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music and Arts Festival (334) 567.5147

October thru December Alabama National Fair Garrett Coliseum Montgomery Action packed 10 days held in October. Come join us for fun, food, rides and music. alnationalfair.org (334) 272.6831

Camellia Bowl Crampton Bowl Montgomery This is an NCAA sanctioned FBS college football game held sometime in December. camelliabowl.com (404) 862.4730

Christmas on the Coosa Gold Star Park Wetumpka Annual Christmas parade held on the Coosa River with decorated boats at night. The festival also offers art/crafts, street parade, and more. cityofwetumpka.com (334) 567.5147

Daddy Daughter Diamond Princess Ball 301 Columbus Street Montgomery A fundraiser that allows daddy’s and daughters to have that special night out. Open to girls ages 6th grade and under. Held in December. oldalabamatown.com (334) 240.4500

Frontier Days at Fort Toulouse 2521 W. Fort Toulouse Road Wetumpka One of the largest and authentic living history events in Alabama. Demonstrates life on the southern frontier during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Held in November. fttoulousejackson.org (334) 567.3002

Funksgiving Music & Food Festival 1 Court Square Montgomery Annual music and food festival held at the Train Shed in downtown Montgomery. Held annually on Black Friday in November. liveandlisten.com

Junior League Market Multiplex at Crampton Bowl Montgomery Annual Holiday Market held in October. jlmontgomery.org (334) 288.8816

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Montgomery Christmas Parade Capitol Building Montgomery Annual parade that kicks of city celebration of Christmas begins at the steps of the capitol and ends at the Court Square. visitingmontgomery.com (334) 625.4400

Montgomery Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery The orchestra plays everyone’s favorite holiday songs. Great concert for family traditions.

ties, chalk, live music performances, games and food vendors. Held in May.

mmfa.org (334) 625.4333

Fountain City Arts Festival in Prattville Downtown Prattville A fun filled day with literary works, artist, musicians and more. Held in April. prattvilleal.gov (334) 595.0854

montgomerysymphony.org (334) 240.4004

Herb Day 301 Columbus Street Montgomery Heirloom organic vegetable plants and herbs.

Held in May.

Tavern Fest 301 Columbus Street Montgomery Popular event downtown featuring craft beer, live music, food, silent auction and much, much more!

Montgomery Sheriff’s Kids Fishing Rodeo Hwy 231 Montgomery Bring your fishing gear and we will provide the snacks and fun! Held in June.

oldalabamatown.com (334) 240.4500

Turkey Day Classic 915 South Jackson Street Montgomery Alabama State University’s traditional Thanksgiving Day football game. bamastatesports.com (334) 229.4100

April thru June Alabama Book Festival 301 Columbus Street Montgomery A wonderful lineup of regional authors from every genre. Lots to do with author panels, quiz shows, children’s activity area, live music, theatre, vendors, food and more. Held in April. alabamabookfestival.org (334) 240.4500

Flimp Festival 1 Museum Drive Montgomery Free art festival featuring over a dozen art activi-

oldalabamatown.com (334) 240.4500

outdooralabama.com (334) 832.1339

Prattville CityFest 131 North Court Street Prattville Visit our local vendors, enjoy the food vendors, fun area for the kids to play, live music and more.

Held in May. prattvillecityfest.com (334) 365.7392

Ride for Freedom Bus Tour 210 South Court Street Montgomery Meet with a Freedom Rider, Historians, Activists and other locals to hear the story from those who lived it. Held in May. Facebook at Freedom Rides Museum (334) 414.8647

River Jam Music Festival Riverfront Amphitheatre Montgomery Annual Music Festival held at Riverfront Park.

Please visit website to see Heading and other performers. Held in May. funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2100

Seafood and Arts Festival Union Station, 300 Water Street Montgomery Delicious seafood, arts and crafts. Benefits Child Protect. Held in April. funinmontgomery.com (334) 625.2100

Sounds of Summer Concert Series East Chase Montgomery Eastchase serves up a series of summer concerts and they are FREE! Visit website for dates and who’s playing. Begins in June. shoppesateastchase.com (334) 279.6046

Sweet Creeks Spring Chicken Festival 85 Meriwether Road Pike Road Live music, BBQ cook-off, kids activities, handcrafted booths and more. Held in April.

(334) 280.3276

January thru March Millbrook Reveler Mardi Gras Festival and Parade Village Green Millbrook Largest Mardi Gras celebration north of Mobile.

Lots of vendors and activities for the children. millbrookrevelers.org (334) 467.6726

Prattville Mardi Gras Parade Downtown Prattville Prattville Come join the fun with great food, arts, crafts, inflatables and the parade. Bring a bag and expect to catch some candy and beads. prattvilleal.gov (334) 358.0297

Southeastern Livestock Exposition Rodeo Garrett Coliseum Montgomery Grab your lasso and come on out! We’ve got Cowboys, Cowgirls, Rodeo Clowns, Live performances and Xtreme bullfights. bamabeef.org (888) 2RODEO2

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Dexter Parsonage Museum 309 S. Jackson Street Montgomery Take a tour of the home where Martin Luther King and his family lived during the Civil Rights Movement. dexterkingmemorial.com (334) 261.3270

Where to Learn Libraries Autauga-Prattville Public Library 254 Doster Street Prattville appl.info (334) 365.3396

Coliseum Boulevard Branch Library 840 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery mccpl.lib.al.us (334) 271.7005

E.L. Lowder Regional Branch Library 2590 Bell Road Montgomery

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum 919 Felder Avenue Montgomery This museum is dedicated to the lives of the Fitzgerald’s during their stay in Montgomery. Tour or one of our yearly local events. thefitzgeraldmuseum.org (334) 264.4222

Freedom Rides Museum 210 South Court Street Montgomery Come see how 21 people changed history using non-violent protest methods. freedomridesmuseum.org (334) 414.8647

Hank Williams Museum 118 Commerce Street Montgomery Museum dedicated in the preservation the country star’s memorabilia, instruments and more.

mccpl.lib.al.us (334) 625.5717

thehankwilliamsmuseum.net (334) 262.3600

Hampstead Library 5251 Long Acre Street Montgomery

Legacy Museum 115 Coosa Street Montgomery Displays the history of racism and hatred in America.

Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library 245 High Street Montgomery

museumandmemorial.eji.org (334) 386.9100

mccpl.lib.al.us (334) 244.5770

mccpl.lib.al.us (334) 625.4999

Millbrook Public Library 3650 Grandview Road Millbrook cityofmillbrook.org (334) 285.6688

Mann Wildlife Learning Museum 325 Vandiver Blvd. Montgomery Visit and learn about North American wildlife in a realistic setting of their natural habitat. Located at The Montgomery Zoo. mannmuseum.com (334) 240.4900

Pike Road Branch Library 9585 Vaughn Road Pike Road mccpl.lib.al.us (334) 244.8679

Wetumpka Public Library 212 South Main Street Wetumpka

wetumpkalibrary.com (334) 567.5147

Rosa Parks Library and Museum 208 Montgomery Street Montgomery Memorial to the life Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. troy.edu (800) 414.4756

Private Schools Alabama Christian Academy + ad on page 28, 45

alabamachristian.org (334) 277.1985

Churchill Academy + ad on page 34

395 Ray Thorington Road Montgomery The only comprehensive school program in Montgomery specializing in educating bright children with unique learning differences.

Testing Requirements: Previous diagnosis of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder or other, and average to above average intellectual functioning, however Churchill will also conduct a testing evaluation to assist in placement. churchillacademy.net (334) 270.4225

Charter Schools

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts + ad on page 103

1 Museum Drive Montgomery Come and view the exhibitions and collection, take an art class, participate in our many events or visit the interactive kids room. Art classes for parents and children also offered. Special events held througout the year. mmfa.org (334) 625.4333

Alabama Cattleman’s MOOseum 201 S. Bainbridge Street Montgomery Hands on agricultural education center for children. They can dress up as cowboys and cowgirls. bamabeef.org (334) 265.1867

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

LEAD Academy ad on + page 20

2897 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery A public charter school for grades K-5. Our mission is to provide innovative programs designed to spark curiosity, maximize learning potential and continuously improve student achievement by empowering them with 21st century skills. We believe in a Montgomery where every child is given the tools they need to be knowledgeable, productive, and well-rounded citizens, and to lead themselves and our community well. leadacademyal.org (334) 230.7756

1701 East Trinity Blvd.

Montgomery At Eastwood, we desire to cultivate in each student a lifelong love of learning, and a pursuit of academic and moral excellence, for the purpose of bringing glory to God alone. Eastwood Christian School offers a college preparatory curriculum.

This is supplemented by an educational emphasis based on the classical Trivium—grammar, logic, and rhetoric. eastwoodschool.org (334) 272.8195

Evangel Christian Academy + ad on page 23

3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery ECA is a K-12 educational community committed to pursuing excellence for the glory of God. ECA has as its mission to minister to Christian children, preparing them academically and spiritually.

Our faculty is highly qualified and dedicated to helping your child fulfill God’s plan for their life.

ecalions.org (334) 272.3882

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4700 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery The mission of Alabama Christian Academy is to glorify God by providing a quality, Christ-centered education which challenges students and teachers to maximize their potential so that graduates are prepared to further their education while becoming productive Christian citizens.

Eastwood Christian School + ad on page 30

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Holy Cross Episcopal School ad on page 32 + 4400 Bell Road

Montgomery Holy Cross Episcopal School of Montgomery, recognizing the God-given gifts and abilities of all persons, seeks to develop these gifts by creating a Christian community in the Episcopal tradition and by providing a nurturing environment in which students of all socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds grow spiritually, intellectually, and physically.

holycrossmontgomery.org (334) 395.8222

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Hooper Academy + ad on page 13, 70

380 Fischer Road Hope Hull Our mission is to provide a balanced and quality curriculum, which allows each student the opportunity to achieve full potential and maximize mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual growth. K4-12 program, coupled with our Early Learning Center (which serves children from 6 weeks through 3 years old), enables families to access a consecutive program of nurturing, educational experiences on a single school campus. hooperacademy.org (334) 288.5980

Macon East Academy + ad on page 3

15396 Vaughn Road Cecil Each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, emotional and intellectual needs. Curriculum and instructional practices incorporate a variety of learning activities to accommodate differences in learning styles and balance academics, athletics, and the arts. maconeast.net (334) 277.6566

Montessori at Mulberry + ad on page 16

2034 Clubview Street Montgomery Each child is encouraged to reach his/her full potential in all areas of life. The specific needs of individual children are met at each developmental level.

Our curriculum, which is challenging, interdisciplinary and real world related, provides a strong academic bridge to elementary school. http://montessoriatmulberry.com (334) 265.7733

Montgomery Catholic + ad on page 7, 73 Saint Bede Campus, 3850 Atlanta Hwy. Holy Spirit Campus, 8580 Vaughn Road

Middle & High School Campus, 5350 Vaughn Road. Montgomery Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is an integral part of the Catholic Church’s mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. As an adult community, we share in the responsibility to prepare students for college and beyond while helping them to grow to become persons of faith, virtue, and wisdom. montgomerycatholic.org (334) 272.7221

Resurrection Catholic + ad on page 38

2850 Forbes Dr Montgomery We strive to offer a quality spiritual and academic program for students from preK through the eighth grade.

We believe that all students deserve an excellent education regardless of race, creed or color.

rcmsouth.org (334) 263.4221

Saint James School + ad on page 1, 27

6010 Vaughn Road Montgomery Saint James is an independent, nonsectarian, college preparatory school with a student body broadly representative of college-bound students. We are committed to challenging and assisting students in realizing their individual potential and preparing them for lives of responsibility, service, and achievement. stjweb.org (334) 277.8033

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Success Unlimited ad on page + 24, 41

2328 Fairlane Dr/4500 Vaughn Rd Montgomery Montgomery’s foremost institution dedicated to individualized education. SUA provides a safe and loving environment where students feel accepted and are challenged by educational excellence, instilled with loyalty to our country, and developed through spiritual growth.

Montgomery Public Schools 307 S. Decatur Street Montgomery Our mission is to engage, educate and inspire our students to succeed in college, career and beyond. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

Pike Road Public School 696 Georgia Washington Road Pike Road Think, Innovate, Create the Pike Road way.

Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar. pikeroadschools.org (334) 420.5301

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Montgomery Brain enhancement techniques. Therapeutic tutoring in reading and math.

(334) 549.8955

Churchill Academy + ad on page 34

395 Ray Thorington Road Montgomery Tutoring available for summer. One on one tutoring for Grades K-12.

churchillacademy.net (334) 270.4225

Mathnasium

+ ad on page 51

Autauga County Public Schools 153 W. 4th Street Millbrook and Prattville Learning today, Leading tomorrow. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar. acboe.net (334) 365.5706

mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery (334) 356.1570

Success Unlimited + ad on page 24, 41

2328 Fairlane Dr Montgomery Tutoring for any subject by certified teachers. suacademy.com (334) 213.0803

Sylvan Learning Center + ad on page 9, 33

Elmore County Public Schools 100 H. H. Robison Drive Wetumpka Every student Empowered! Every student Succeeds! Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

4240 Lomac Street Montgomery Offering tutoring in Study Skills, Math,

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OB/GYNs OB/GYN Associates + ad on page 32

495 Taylor Road, Montgomery and 630 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville

Montgomery and Prattville For over 20 years, our medical practice has provided health care for women of all ages in Montgomery and the surrounding areas. At OB/ GYN Associates of Montgomery we provide upto-date comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic services in high risk and normal risk pregnancy, infertility, incontinence, pelvic prolapse, menopause, abnormal pap smears, menstrual problems, birth control, endometriosis, pelvic pain, and weight loss. Our talented and personable doctors and staff offer individualized care at three practice locations. We are equipped with some of the latest technology to better and more efficiently serve you. obgynmontgomery.com (334) 279.9333

Central Alabama Ob-gyn Associates 2024 Chestnut Street Montgomery Specializing in gynecology and obstetrics, female infertility and surgery.

(334) 265.3543

Montgomery Women’s Health Associates 470 Taylor Road, Suite 300 Montgomery Specializing in routine and high risk prenatal care, including non-invasive prenatal testing.

Ultrasounds, nonstress testing and biophysical testing done in office. montgomerywomenshealth.com (334) 281.1191

Physicians for Women 287 Mitylene Park Drive, Montgomery and 645 McQueen Smith Road Montgomery and Prattville Specializing in gynecology and obstetrics, female infertility and surgery. mypfw.com (334) 290.4200 and (334) 491.4200

elmoreco.com (334) 567.1200

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

3453 Malcolm Dri Montgomery We are the

authority in math education.

trinitywildcats.com (334) 213.2100

Public Schools

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ASKIN Synergy House ad on page 105 + 3501 Whiting Avenue

sylvanlearning.com (334) 239.0874

1700 East Trinity Blvd.

Montgomery To glorify God by providing for students the highest quality, collegepreparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, thus enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body.

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4240 Lomac Street Montgomery The School at Sylvan Learning Center is a SACS Accredited school program which offers an individualized education experience. By offering a low student to teacher ratio, we are able to individualize and meet the educational needs of each student.

Trinity Presbyterian School + ad on page

206 Fairview Avenue Prattville Providing support in study skill and homework help, math, writing, reading, STEM & Robotics sessions and ACT/ SAT Prep.

Where to Grow

montgomeryacademy.org (334) 273.7170

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Sylvan Learning of Prattville + ad on page 63

sylvanlearning.com (334) 212.8448

The Montgomery Academy + ad on Back Cover

The School at Sylvan Learning Center + ad on page

sylvanlearning.com/montgomery (334) 262.0043

mps.k12.al.us (334) 223.6700

suacademy.com (334) 213.0803

Upper School, 3240 Vaughn Road; Lower School, 1550 Perry Hill Road Montgomery The Montgomery Academy (MA) is a K–12, co-ed, nonsectarian day school serving the River Region community since 1959. Our mission is to develop leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence.

ACT/SAT Prep, Writing, Reading and Homework help.

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Just for Grins Orthodontics + ad on page 97

7051 Halcyon Summit Drive, Montgomery 68 Village Loop, Wetumpka

Pediatric Dentists & Orthodontist

207 Ashton Plaza, Millbrook We offer a wide array of orthodontic treatment options to get you or your child a smile to be proud of.

justforgrinsortho.com (334) 270.1044

Chapman Orthodontics + ad on

Kingry Orthodontics + ad on

1550 E. Trinity Blvd.

Montgomery Father-and-son orthodontic team that provides comfortable and efficient orthodontic treatment to families throughout the Montgomery, Prattville, and Greenville communities.

8101 Seaton Place, Montgomery 31 Bridge Street, Pike Road We offer services for Invisalign, early treatment, adult treatment, incognito and headache relief. Creating Smiles for Life!

Dentistry for Children + ad on page 16

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics ad on + page 50

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chapmanortho.com (334) 272.9447

7047 Halcyon Summit Dr, Montgomery & 68 Village Loop, Wetumpka We provide comprehensive dental care to infants, children, adolescents and special needs patients.

chew-chewtrain.com (334) 277.6830

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children to enjoy their dental experiences.

smilesfromus.com (334) 277.6690

Prattville Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics + ad on page 50

460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville Our mission is to provide comprehensive dental and orthodontic treatment and education for children and adolescents in a friendly atmosphere that encourages children to enjoy their dental experiences.

smilesfromus.com (334) 358.6411

kingryorthodontics.com (334) 272.4900

2600 Bell Road, Montgomery Montgomery Our mission is to provide comprehensive dental and orthodontic treatment and education for children and adolescents in a friendly atmosphere that encourages

Pediatricians Professional Pediatrics + ad on page 12

4154 Carmichael Rd Montgomery Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. Provid-

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Montessori @ Mulberry + ad on page 1

ing excellence in physical, mental, and social health care for infants, children, and adolescents.

We recognize parents as a necessary part in raising healthy, responsible and productive citizens.

Our children are the future! Our office consists of three doctors and is accepting new patients.

2034 Clubview St Montgomery Montessori at Mulberry serves children 18 months to 6 years of age. Children learn at their own pace and with a variety of hands on materials geared specifically for them.

professionalpediatrics.com (334) 271.5959

Carlile Pediatric 78 Cambridge Court Wetumpka Provide complete and personal healthcare for infants, children and adolescents. carlilepediatrics.com (334) 567.6915

Partners in Pediatrics 8160 Seaton Place Montgomery Complete healthcare for pediatric and adolescents. On call service for each night and on weekends. mykidsdr.com (334) 272.1799

Partners in Pediatrics Prattville 136 E. Main Street Prattville Complete healthcare for pediatric and adolescents. On call service for each night and on weekends. mykidsdr.com (334) 272.1799

Pediatric Healthcare 4700 Woodmere Blvd. Montgomery Provide quality care for infants, children and adolescents and to assist parents in the endeavor in rearing their children to reach their optimal physical, emotional, and spiritual development. pedhealthcare.com (334) 273.9700

Childcare & PreK Alpha & Omega Learning Center

montessoriatmulberry.com (334) 265.7733

+ ad on page 36

1562 Ann Street Montgomery Infants, toddlers, kindergarten, primary and middle school. Hours: Monday through Friday, 6 am to 6 pm.

(334) 294.0805

Frazer Memorial Kindergarten and MMO + ad on page 75

6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery

One of the oldest and most successful of its type in Montgomery. Our program that provides students with numerous opportunities to develop strong social, academic and spiritual foundations.

The Learning Tree + ad on

Century Strong Moms 11 Chapel Hill Street Pike Road Dedicated in helping moms in the community be STRONG moms. Please email lifegroups@ century.church.

Mom2Mom Frazer United Methodist Church Montgomery Playgroup to connect mother of newborn to 5 years old. Email mom2mom@frazerumc.org. frazerumc.org

Montgomery Multiples Offers support to mothers of twins, triplet and more. They offer moms night out with dinner once a month.

sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) First Baptist Church, 305 S Perry St Montgomery Support group for moms of preschoolers. Meet twice a month with motivational speakers, conversations with other moms and activities.

Childcare provided. montgomeryfbc.org/mops (334) 241.5165

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road Montgomery Support group for moms of preschoolers. Meet twice a month with motivational speakers, conversations with other moms and activities.

Childcare provided.

Lakeview Child Development Center + ad on page 83 9225 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery

Providing a safe, loving, Christian environment where children are happy and parents entrust their children to our care with confidence. 6 wks to 4 yrs, MondayFriday. lakeviewbaptistchurch.cc/daycare_info (334) 396.3944

Memorial Presbyterian Church Children’s Center + ad on page 87

2130 Bell Road Montgomery Connecting Children’s Hearts and Minds to Jesus. We are a Preschool/Enrichment program accepting children ages 2 months to four years old. The Summer Program includes ages 2 month through fifth grade. Our teachers have specialized training in preschool education.

memorialpres.net (334) 274.1018

(334) 271.4733

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

(334) 284.5560

(334) 365.1451

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Vaughn Park Church of Christ Mother’s Day Out + ad on page 39

3800 Vaughn Road Montgomery Mother’s Day Out at Vaughn Park is a half-day program full of fun and learning. We accept babies at 6 weeks through 4 years old. vaughnpark.com (334) 272.2665

Vaughn Road Preschool + ad on page 69

8790 Vaughn Road Montgomery To nurture and educate the whole child in a loving, Christian environment.

We accept children 6 weeks to preschool age.

(334) 277.4815

First Baptist Child Development Center 205 W. Bridge Street Wetumpka Our goal is to provide a well-rounded ministry of nurturing for your child, as well as a system of encouragement and support for parents and grandparents. fbc/wetumpka.org (334) 567.3319

First Baptist Preschool & Kindergarten 138 South Washington Street Prattville We believe it’s important to plant seeds of faith early in a child’s life. Our preschool ministry is a place children can be themselves and learn more about the One who created and deeply loves them. fbcprattville.org (334) 361.9481

First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten 211 South Chestnut Street Prattville Our desire is to help your child grow academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually while he or she is here with us throughout the school year. fpkprattville.com (334) 365.6387

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4120 Carmichael Road and 3335 Woodley Road Montgomery 1816 Glynnwood Drive Prattville Your Children deserve the best so why not give it to them. We pride ourselves in having the best childcare program for ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

frazerkindergarten.com (334) 279.0271

Mom Groups

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First Steps Mother’s Day Out and Preschool 1266 Dozier Road Wetumpka We offer a Christ centered environment, small classes with age appropriate curriculum, designed to foster a love of learning and prepare your child for academic success in the years to come.

First UMC Early Childhood Development Center 2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery We partner with families to help children grow physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually for children 6 weeks to 5 years. fumcmontgomery.org (334) 834.8964

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Jason’s Deli

ad on + page 11

1520 Eastern Blvd Montgomery Honored as the best family restaurant in America by Parents magazine, we’re famous for delicious sandwiches, crisp salads, and more quick, quality meals made with fresh ingredients and no artificial trans fats, MSG, high-fructose corn syrup, or artificial colors and dyes! jasonsdeli.com

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fruttabowls.com (334) 356.5107

Facebook: First Steps RBC (334) 221.5681

ad

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bowls, coffee, smoothies and more. Indoor and outdoor seating!

Where to Eat Frutta Bowls + ad on page 39

7056 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery Frutta Bowls is the fastest growing superfoods cafe in the nation, providing healthy alternatives to traditional fast food chains in the form of Acai, Pitaya & Kale Bowls. Plus, oatmeal

(334) 409.9890

Smoothie King + ad on page 89

7026 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery Smoothies blended to fuel your passion! 22 Fitness Blends, 19 Slim Blends, 14 Wellness Blends, 6 Kids Blends and more! smoothieking.com (334) 356.5621

Baumhower’s Wings 2465 Eastern Blvd. / 201 S. Union St Montgomery Sports pub with wings. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with purchase of $10 adult entrée and is limited to 1 child per adult. baumhowers.com (334) 271.1831 and (334) 263.8800

Beef O’ Brady’s 2776 Legends Pkwy. Prattville Irish type pub. One Free kids meal for kids under 12 with the purchase of one regular priced adult meal on Monday from 4-8 p.m. Dine in-only. beefobradys.com (334) 290.9962

Bruster’s Ice Cream All locations River Region Large selection of ice cream, cakes and pies.

Kids under 40? get a free baby cone. brusters.com

Capitol Oyster Bar 617 Shady Street Montgomery We offer the best seafood and view in town.

Come visit us and enjoy our live entertainment. capitoloysterbar.com (334) 239.8958

Captain D’s All locations River Region Grilled and fried seafood. Get 2 free kids meals with any regular priced adult purchase on Thursdays. Dine-in only. captainsds.com

Chappy’s Deli 8141 Vaughn Rd 1611 Perry Hill Montgomery Large selection of foods from burgers off the grill, signature sandwiches or salads. Free meals for children under 6 daily. Kids 6-12 eat for $2.50. Free mini icecream after meal. Also in Prattville. chappysdeli.com (334) 279.1226

Chicken Salad Chik All locations River Region Delicious selection of chicken salad. Offers free meals for kids 10 and under on Tuesdays. chickensaladchik.com

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Chris’s Hotdogs 138 Dexter Avenue Montgomery Old style mom & pop diner that is known for its chili cheese dogs.

Green Papaya 409 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery Authentic Lao-Thai cuisine and experience. greenpapayacuisine.com (334) 395.7654

chrishotdogs.com (334) 265.6850

CiCi’s Pizza All locations River Region Pizza, salad and dessert buffet. Kids under 3 eat free. cicis.com

Cuco’s 11123 Chantilly Pkwy. Pike Road Mexican style café. Kids eat free on Tuesday. cucosmexicancafe.com (334) 271.3528

Dreamland BBQ 12 West Jefferson Street Montgomery Try us for our famous BBQ and sauce. Free meals for kids on Sundays with the purchase of an adult entrée. dreamlandbbq.com (334) 273.7427

El Sombrero Mexican Grill 705 E. Main Street Prattville Kids eat free with paid on adult on Mondays.

(334) 356.8555

Fazoli’s 7123 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery Italian style food. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with paying adult. fazolis.com (334) 239.9109

Gazebo Tea Room 414 Perry Hill Road Montgomery Piano music plus sandwiches and tea equal a calming and peaceful lunchtime experience.

Facebook: The Gazebo Tea Room (334) 277.1839

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Jalapeno’s Mexican Restaurant 8157 Vaughn Road Montgomery Child eats free on Monday’s with adult purchase.

(334) 277.2840

Lek’s Railroad Thai 300 Water St B Montgomery Thai destination offering up curry, noodle dishes & sushi in a historic Union Station building.

Facebook: Lek’s Railroad Thai Restaurant (334) 269.0708

Logan’s Roadhouse 2775 Legends Parkway Prattville American food and cocktails. 1 free kids meal per adult entrée purchase on Wednesdays. logansroadhouse.com (334) 285.9900

Martha’s 7730 Atlanta Highway Montgomery Southern comfort food that all started in a house downtown. Buffet style. marthasplacebuffet.com (334) 356.7165

Martin’s 1796 Carter Hill Road Montgomery Longtime local family restaurant with southern comfort food. Known for our fried chicken.

Facebook: Martins Restaurant (334) 265.1767

McAlister’s Deli 2747 Legends Pkwy. Prattville Known for its sandwiches, baked potatoes and tea. Kids eat everyday for $.99 mcalistersdeli.com (334) 285.3334

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Mellow Mushroom 75 Commerce Street Montgomery Pizza, calzones and more in the perfect location. Enjoy your food and explore downtown Montgomery. mellowmushroom.com (334) 239.3688

Mellow Mushroom Prattville 2641 Legends Pkwy. Prattville Pizza, calzones and more! Kids eat free per adult meal purchase on Tuesdays after 5 p.m. mellowmushroom.com (334) 290.2088

Midtown Pizza 2940 Zelda Road or Montgomery and Prattville Pizza, Pasta, sandwiches and more! Casual dining experience for good food with friends. mpkmontgomery.com (334) 395.0080

Nancy’s Italian Ice 7976 Vaughn Road Montgomery 16 flavors of Italian ice served everyday. We also have cupcakes and gelato. nancysice.com (334) 356.1403

O’Charleys 2301 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville Traditional American cuisine. One free kid’s meal (10 and under) when you purchase one adult entree, all day every day. ocharleys.com (334) 285.2990

Pizza Perfect 428 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery Tuesdays after 5 p.m. kids eat free from buffet with adult buffet purchase.

Facebook: Pizza Perfect Montgomery (334) 244.7721

Rail Yard Brewing Company 12 West Jefferson Street Montgomery Pub style restaurant known for its craft ales. Kids

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Texas Roadhouse 7525 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery American fare with a southwestern spin. Kids eat for $2.99 with purchase of adult entrée after 4 p.m. on Thursdays.

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texasroadhouse.com (334) 396.7774

The Little Donkey 7720 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery Farm to table style Mexican food.

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thelittledonkey.com (334) 625.1949

The Wharf 6945 Eastchase Loop and 3954 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery Large selection of seafood entrees. Kids choose a free meal from the kids menu with the purchase of an adult entrée on Thursdays.

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eat free on Sunday with adult meal purchase. brewerydb.com (334) 262.0080

Red Robin 7005 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery American style grub. Kids eat for $1.99 with the purchase of an adult entrée on Thursdays. redrobin.com (334) 396.1078

Saza’s 130 Commerce Street Montgomery Serious Italian food in a hip atmosphere. Walking in awakens your taste buds. sazapizza.com (334) 495.7292

Seafood Bistro 1651 Perryhill Road Montgomery Cajun seafood at its best.

theseafoodbistro.com (334) 279.7500

Shashy’s Fine Foods 1700 Mulberry Street Montgomery Home-style southern food + cakes & pastries. shashysbakery.com (334) 263.7341

Sol Restaurante 3962 Atlanta Highway Montgomery Authentic Mexican in a relaxing atmosphere. solrestaurante.getbento.com (334) 593.8250

Sweetcreek Farm Market & Café 85 Meriwether Road Pike Road Farm to table eatery with local fresh produce and signature sandwiches. Kids eat free in the café on Tuesdays with a purchase of an entree.

Facebook: SweetCreek Farm Market (334) 280.3276

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Tipping Point 5015 Hampstead High Street Montgomery A local hangout where you can enjoy food, drinks and fun with the whole family. Garden area for your kids and dogs to play in while you enjoy the patio. tippingpointhampstead.com (334) 260.9110

Tomatino’s Pizza and Bake Shop 503 Cloverdale Rd, Montgomery Quaint locale offering traditional pizzas, salads, housemade breads & calzones, plus beer & wine. tomatinos.com (334) 264.4241

Urban Cookhouse 7712 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery Wide selection of farm fresh food. Child eats free from 4-6 p.m. on Mondays with purchase of adult entrée. urbancookhouse.com (334) 293.7801 mp

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Volunteers Volunteers needed. It takes a lot of volunteers to make this event happen. Great for youth and adult community service organizations. Call 595.0854 for more info.

Visit www.prattvilleal.gov for more information.

Russell Lands Fourth of July Blast: Concert & Fireworks

in the

Lake Martin Amphitheater will host a night of music and fireworks on Thursday, July 4. Gates open at 5:45 p.m. Music starts at 7 p.m. and fireworks will begin at 9 p.m. Musical artists will be The Bank Walkers and Tyn Tymes. Music until 10:30 p.m. (This is one of the Southeast’s largest fireworks show.) The fireworks show is free (from an open field adjacent to the amphitheater or by boat), but for the best seat in the house and to enjoy the musical entertainment, tickets are available at the gate or through ticket master for $10, with children under 6 free. Proceeds benefit Lake Martin area charities. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics.

Concessions are also available. The Lake Martin Amphitheater is located on Highway 63 about 1 mile south of Kowaliga Bridge.

For more information call (256) 397. 1019 or visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com.

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River Region

Annual Flag Boat Parade

Thursday, July 4, beginning at 9 a.m. at Kowaliga Marina on Lake Martin. Boats of all sizes parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor and back. Onlookers from the shoreline and water can watch free of charge. Boat registration is due

by July 1. Forms can be picked up at any Russell Marine location - Kowaliga, Real Island, The Ridge and River North.

For out-of-towners, call (334) 857.2111 to request a form. Registration is free.

Prattville Celebration 2018 Schedule of Events

Annual 4th of July Parade On Thursday, July 4th at 9am, family members of all ages will enjoy the fire engines, candy, floats and more. This years Grand Marshals will be the past and present Autauga County Commissioners. Bring your lawn chair and set up early for a good spot along the parade route. Begins at the Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Autauga County Courthouse and winds its way downtown.

For information, call 595-0854.

Annual Lion’s Club BBQ & Cardboard Boat Races The annual Lion’s Club Bar-B-Q and Camp Stew Sale will take place at Pratt Park at 10 a.m. There will be music, a patriotic program, bake sale and arts and crafts.

This year a children’s fun area will be featured, and the Pratt Pool will be open for public swimming from 1p.m.-3p.m.

Call 358.1068 for info. The Cardboard Boat Races begin at 10:30 am, with teams creating their competition boats out of cardboard and duct tape. Registration Required. Please contact 595.0800 for more information.

Fireworks Presentation Takes place at Stanley-Jensen Stadium and festivities begin at 6pm and fireworks begin at dark. Enjoy a Concert by Creativity, children’s fun area and food vendors.

Free admission!

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Capital City Independence Day Celebration

July 3rd. Gates open at 5:30.

Concert at 6 p.m. Blount Cultural Park Music, Food and Beverage Vendors.

Chairs, blankets and pets allowed.

Fireworks at dusk.

For more details call (334) 625.2100.

Callaway Gardens: July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party

July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at our annual July 4th www.montgomeryparents.com

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Star Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach activities, live music and our annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Be sure to pack plenty of red, white and blue for this All-American Weekend!

Stay tuned for complete schedule of events.

Please visit www.callawaygardens.com.

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Pike Road Parade A Local Tradition

Thursday, July 4 Sponsored by the Pike Road Community Club. Meet near the Pike Road Baptist Church in the Historic Town Center Along Pike Road. Registration begins at 8:30 am, behind the Baptist Church. Parade starts at 9:30 am. Categories: Floats, Walkers, Bicycles, 4 Wheelers, Old Cars, Walking animals on leash, Go Carts, Etc. The route is TBD but will be along Pike Road in the Historic District. There will be an award ceremony following the conclusion of the parade on the back patio of Founders Station — by the Pike Road Veterans Memorial near the intersection of Pike and Meriwether roads. Contact for info: Julie Livingston at 334-657-2012.

Pike Road Summer Fest

Thursday, July 4 from 5pm.-9p.m.

The Town Square at The Waters (2283 Marler Road, Pike Road, AL) The Town of Pike Road’s annual Fourth of July celebration is an evening of excitement for all ages. Bring your family and friends to enjoy food, live music from local favorites and one of the largest firework spectaculars in the River Region. $10 per carload. For information, call (334) 272.9883 or visit www.Pikeroad.us.

Wetumpka Celebration

Wednesday, July 3rd Fireworks at 8:30 p.m., Gold Star Park Please visit www.cityofwetumpka.com for more information and updates or call (334) 567.5147.

Cloverdale-Idlewild Parade

Thursday, July 4, at 2 p.m. at the corner of Plymouth and Lexington. Ends at Bottom Park on Cloverdale Rd. Drums, bikes, floats; 6 p.m. there will be a band.

Dress in your red, white and blue and join this old fashioned 4th of July celebration.

Contact Charlie Colvin at 834.6030 for more information. mp 91

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A Page in a Book Finding Their Own Fashion: Kids and Clothes Before they develop their own style, most parents enjoy a grace period when we can dress our children up in a range of fashion that usually expresses our own idea of what suits our child. But the day always comes when kids take their clothing choices into their own hands and emerge from their room in a unique ensemble featuring color combinations that blind the senses, or is upside down, or is inside out, or includes a cape. And that’s cool. The power of expression kids may ascribe to their clothing choices supports their individual evolution and allows them to celebrate their individual style. The following titles explore how kids clothing helps them be comfortable with who they are in what they wear.

Green Pants

by Kenneth Kraegel (Candlewick Press) Jameson can do anything when he’s wearing green pants. His basketball dunk is the highest, his dive is the deepest, and his dance moves are unmatched when his pants are green. Jameson has green pants that make the best of every occasion. But when he’s given the honor of being in his cousin’s wedding, the required tuxedo comes with a problem - black pants. Can Jameson do his best at the wedding if he gives up his green pants for the ceremony? For every child who has that favorite piece of clothing that defines their daily wear (and every parent who has to keep it in priority rotation for laundry), Green Pants is both a fashion love story and reassuring guide for options when signature garb has to take seat, just for a little while.

Willbee the Bumblebee

by Craig Smith & Maureen Thomson, Illustrated by Katz Cowley (Scholastic) Flying among the flowers in the garden, Willbee has an important job moving pollen from plant to plant. Even though his days start early and end late, he’s got his fuzzy striped jersey to keep him warm while he works. But when a thorn snags a thread on his jersey, his work clothes unwind, exposing his bare bee bum and leaving Willbee out in the cold. Unable to fly for help, other garden helpers step in with their own unique skills to get Willbee back into flying fashion. With rhyming couplets that follow a bee’s trajectory through the garden, this sweet title knits together a journey from unraveling confidence to a community effort that restores comfort (and style) to one of its hardest workers.

Ogilvy

by Deborah Underwood, Illustrations by T.L. McBeth (Henry Holt and Company) It’s Ogilvy’s first day in a new town and he’s ready to join activities and make new friends. Donning his signature sweater he visits the park where all the bunnies are playing games. When he starts to join in, Ogilvy discovers that his sweater style dictates the games that he’s allowed (or not allowed) to participate in. By simply changing what he calls his sweater, Ogilvy finds the avenue that allows him to do all the things he loves. But when the bunnies start to chafe against his revolving description of ‘sweater’, it’s up to Ogilvy to ultimately define fashion and fun. Empowering young readers to own their individual sense of style and take a sartorial stand among the masses, this title celebrates the Ogilvy in all of us.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Godzilla: King of the Monsters

Pokemon: Detective Pikachu

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: AProfanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: AAfter the destruction of San Francisco in the last Godzilla movie, the crypto-zoological agency Monarch and the government face a new challenge.

The Titans, ancient gigantic creatures who defend Earth’s ecosystem, have been appearing around the world. But when a group of terrorists begin awakening and unleashing those monsters to further their agenda, humanity is plunged into a crisis so severe that even Monarch struggles to protect itself. Their greatest foe is Monster Zero, also known as Ghidorah, a mysterious three-headed dragon who can cast lightning. The only hope for humanity lies in Godzilla, Ghidorah’s ancient rival. But can Monarch get his help in time? Or will Ghidorah wipe out humanity first?

While the special effects are exceptional, and the fights impressive and suitably massive, the real standout in this film is the musical score. Best of all is the use of Akira Ifukube’s unbelievably iconic theme from the original 1954 film, which is brain-meltingly cool coming out of theatre speakers.

Parental concerns will center around violence and language. The violence is extensive, but not much more intense or disturbing than anything you’d see in a superhero movie. The profanity is fairly localized in a handful of instances and isn’t used much outside of emergencies. That said, the film can be frightening and intense, and isn’t well suited to children Maybe I’m just biased by my love of giant monster beat-em-ups, but this is one of the most satisfying movies I’ve seen all year.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: A When Tim (Justice Smith) hears from the Ryme City Police Department that his estranged father has been killed in the line of duty, he sets out for the big city to clean out his father’s apartment. Once there, he finds a strange vial full of purple gas and an amnesiac Pikachu (Ryan Reynolds) snooping around. To his astonishment, Tim can understand the Pikachu and learns that he has a connection to Tim’s father. Together, they decide to get to the bottom of his father’s disappearance and begin to follow the leads on his final investigation. With the help of reporter Lucy Stevens (Kathryn Newton) and her Psyduck, Tim and Pikachu find that the investigation goes far deeper than they ever could have imagined.

I’ll admit, I was kind of expecting this movie to be 90 minutes of boiled trash. Instead, it’s 104 minutes of surprisingly funny and heartfelt storytelling.

Ryan Reynolds brings his usual repertoire of high-speed deadpan comedy, but at a much more child appropriate level than his similar turn in Deadpool.

Much like Shrek and Toy Story, this film features good mix of comedy: there’s loads of slapstick and silly jokes for younger viewers, and plenty of wry observations (and the odd mild double entendre) for parents.

Pokémon: Detective Pikachu is one of the funnier family movies I’ve seen lately. Best of all, the movie keeps its runtime down so the kids don’t get bored and the adults won’t get irritated. If you’re looking for entertainment for a wide age range, you can definitely choose this Pokémon tale.

Aladdin

A Dog’s Journey

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: BI’ll cut right to the chase. Disney’s live action remake of Aladdin works. I was afraid that the latest raid of the Mouse’s classic catalog would flop (hello, Dumbo) but fortunately, it lands in the hit column. It’s vibrant, energetic, and just plain fun.

The biggest challenge dogging this production is living up to the legacy of the late, great Robin Williams. His madcap, freewheeling genie is a masterpiece of improvisational comedy and is the crazy, comic heart of the 1992 animated film. I wondered if Will Smith could possibly be up to the task of trying to fill those big, curly-toed shoes. Wisely, Smith doesn’t try to be a second Robin Williams. He creates his own genie, and if it isn’t quite as brilliant as Williams’ magical lamp-dweller, it’s plenty entertaining.

Mena Massoud and Naomi Scott, as Aladdin and Jasmine, bring great chemistry to their roles as the street rat and the princess with whom he falls in love. And both leads provide great positive messages for young viewers.

The only issues come with the plot-directed violence. There is no bloody action, but there are lots of chase scenes where characters are pushed, hit, and fall from heights and two scenes involving murder. And there are scenes of peril that render this film unsuitable for very young or easily frightened viewers.

Viewers hoping that this version of Aladdin would open up a “whole new world” might not get their wish. But, while it isn’t perfect, this magical tale is a fun and feminist reinterpretation of the original that the whole family will enjoy.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: C In 2017, A Dog’s Purpose introduced us to Bailey (voiced by Josh Gad), a lovable dog whose loyalty to his beloved master Ethan (Dennis Quaid) was literally stronger than death. Reincarnated over and over again, Bailey learned that his purpose was to watch over Ethan forever.

But now it’s time for the sequel, A Dog’s Journey, and soon Bailey is dying again. As Bailey slips away, Ethan gives him a new purpose – to protect and watch out for his granddaughter C.J. (Abby Ryder Fortson/Kathryn Prescott) And, boy, does C.J. need protecting. Born one month after her father’s untimely death, C.J. has spent her first two years living with grandparents Ethan and Hannah (Marg Helgenberger) and her immature, self-absorbed mother, Gloria (Betty Gilpin). Convinced that Ethan and Hannah look down on her and want to take her child, Gloria leaves in a huff and refuses to allow the doting grandparents to see C.J. again. Drowning her sorrows in copious amounts of alcohol, Gloria neglects her child and squanders the insurance money that was supposed to provide for C.J.’s future. Clearly, help is needed and this is when Bailey re-enters C.J.’s life, ready to fulfill his purpose.

A Dog’s Journey is basically the cinematic equivalent of comfort food: it’s neither innovative nor interesting but it sure makes you feel better. Parents will feel good about taking older kids to this movie, thanks to its lack of profanity and sexual content. The movie feels like a Hallmark TV special, and no matter how bleak things may look, audiences know that this movie’s purpose is to deliver a sentimental, happy-ever-after ending.

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Summer camp is a win-win situation for families.

It gives parents the child-free time they need to work or care for younger children, while keeping their older children occupied with fun activities. If you are looking for a budget friendly way to achieve some of the benefits that a day camp provides, you might want to consider a progressive neighborhood camp. Other than camp supplies, the only cost for a neighborhood progressive camp is an hour of the parents’ time each day.

The parent counselors take turns providing one hour of structured entertainment in the form of games, crafts and other activities. When the hour is up, the children move on to the next house, leaving that parent the rest of the time to do their work childfree.

How it works: Choose the number of participants based on the number of children and their ages. The number of families, not the number of children, will determine how long your camp is each day. For example, if you have five families, your camp is 5 hours long. If you have a large number of children, you can enlist the help of a babysitter who will move from house to house with the children and act as an assistant camp counselor.

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Planning: Choose the activities that you will include in your camp. Some suggestions include outdoor games, arts and crafts, music and dance, gardening, cooking and baking, science projects, storytime and, of course, lunchtime. Other options include teaching a new skill like how to sew on a button or inviting a guest speaker to come.

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com, which is a goldmine Example Progressive Camp for inexpenToday’s Theme: Wild West sive kids’ 9:00 to 10:00 crafts and Arts and Crafts at Smith House game prizes.

- Make marshmallow shooters Instead of 10:00 to 11:00 serving lunch Cooking and Baking at Yu House for a large - Make homemade ice cream group, con11:00 to 12:00 sider having Outdoor games at Johnson House each child - Playing horseshoes, water gun bring a sack shooting gallery, rope the horse, lunch. sack races If you 12:00 to 1:00 plan to send Lunch and Storytime at Brown House the kids - Serving wagon wheel pasta and pigs home with a trinket each in a blanket, plus homemade ice cream day, consider Reading: Cowboy Camp something

by Tammi Sauer reusable 1:00 to 2:00 like relay Music/Dance time at O’Malley House race water - Learning to square dance bottles from the dollar store. Other inexpensive ideas include a DVD of the Keep the costs down: You will music video they made or an egg carfind craft supplies at OrientalTrading. ton full of the seedlings they planted. you might also consider a short field trip.

Parent camp counselors can chose which activity they host based on their skill level or tolerance for mess. Using a daily theme for your camp will help to tie the activities together. Theme ideas include pajama day, beach party, super hero, patriotic, decades day, sports jersey day and Wacky Wednesday. Work as a group to determine a budget after factoring the number of children and the supplies needed for each activity.

An example itinerary for a Wild West theme can be found in the sidebar.

Putting it all together: All the kids will meet at the first house at the start of camp. The camp counselor should be prepared to start the activity as soon as the kids arrive. Each session should end five minutes before the next hour so the counselor (or babysitter) can walk the kids to the next house. At the end of the day, each parent will pick up their child at the last house.

Capture the memories: Take a lot of pictures of the kids at camp. You can find inexpensive photo booth printouts online and at Etsy or snap candid shots of the kids in action. Make a slide show of the photos to share with the campers on the last day and give everyone a copy.

The best thing about a progressive day camp is that you can host a weekly camp or just one day each week for the whole summer. Unlike other camps, these parents will be a part of their child’s camp experience, an advantage that is priceless.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three who believes it takes a village to raise children. She is forever grateful to the many moms and dads who have created so many memories for her family. mp

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Tonya Speed’s DC Strutters Win Big

These top two photos are the soloists and duets, which received outstanding awards at Kids’ Artistic Revue in Chattanooga. Some awards were invitations to attend the Hollywood dance experience and the New York City experience. Several top awards were given also. The large group doing a tap dance received the three-foot tall trophy for the Overall Top Super line category!

Meredith Peden, Ashley Duncan, Quan Littleton and Tonya Speed are choreographers for the team.

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Girl Scouts Hosts Annual Awards Ceremony

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) hosted its annual In Your Honor event at Young Meadows Presbyterian Church in Montgomery recently. In Your Honor gives GSSA a chance to celebrate the achievements of its Girl Scouts and volunteers. During the ceremony, GSSA recognized Girl Scouting’s highest awards—the Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards and honored outstanding volunteers.

The Girl Scout Bronze Award is the highest recognition for achievement in Girl Scouting for girls in grades 4-5. This award recognizes Girl Scouts who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through sustainable and measurable Take Action projects that address important community needs. GSSA was honored to recognize 65 Juniors in Montgomery and the surrounding areas with their Bronze Award.

The Girl Scout Silver Award is one of countless awards and programs in Girl Scouts where leadership takes center stage.

Introduced in 1980, the Girl Scout Silver Award is the highest award a Cadette can earn. This year, GSSA recognized 24 dedicated young ladies with their Silver Award.

The Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout can earn, acknowledges the power behind each recipient’s dedication to not only empowering and bettering herself but also to making the world a better place for others. This year, GSSA presented Samantha Ammeter of Montgomery with her Gold Award.

GSSA takes great pride in recognizing special individuals for their years of membership, volunteer service and exceptional contributions. This year, GSSA presented the 5 Years of Service pin to Allison Ingram of Montgomery. Lisa Harden of Montgomery was honored with an Appreciation Pin for her outstanding service as a troop leader. To join or volunteer, visit www.girlscoutssa.org.

From left, Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama CEO Karlyn Edmonds, Gold Award Girl Scout Samantha Ammeter, and her parents Christine and Robert Ammeter.

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Sterling Miss USA Pageant Seeks Entries

The fifth annual Sterling Miss USA Pageant, a two-day competition open to girls age 4 to 21 across the United States, will be held July 27-28, in Pell City, Ala. Contestants in each of the seven age divisions will compete for cash scholarships and prizes. During their yearlong reign, they will enjoy numerous activities including a visit with Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, a free Queens’ and Individual Photo Shoot, a Queens’ Beach Trip and various other events, appearances, and community service projects. During competition, the delegates will compete in an interview, fun fashion and formal wear. Optionals, which take place on Saturday afternoon, include Patriotic Wear, Top Model Photo Shoot, Casual Wear, Talent, Photogenic, Actress and Spokes Model. On Saturday evening, the contestants will enjoy a themed welcome party. The registration fee is $375.

Sterling Miss Pageants offer a positive environment whereby contestants make new lifelong friends, while gaining important life skills including interview, public speaking and self-esteem. Along with the Sterling Miss USA Pageant, they also host the annual Little Miss River Region, along with several holiday pageants. For more info about upcoming pageants or how you can be a contestant at this year’s Sterling Miss USA Pageant, visit www.SterlingMiss.org and click on the Sterling USA Tab. 2018 Sterling Miss USA Queens are shown front row from left, Lexie Deavers and Jade Godwin; and back row: Tori Thompson, Alyssa Weyant, Gina Jones and Arica Haywood.

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Newtopia’s School Champion Program

Newtopia Indoor Funpark supports and encourages academic excellence. The class champion program offers free field trips, free admission, awards and prizes to grade school classes that are full of exceptional students at schools all over Montgomery.

Teachers are allowed to enter their best class into the class champion program for a chance to visit Newtopia and participate in all of the exciting events. Parents are also encouraged to submit their children’s grades and a summary of their extracurricular activities, achievements, awards and community service endeavors for a chance to become a school champion winner.

During the last class champion ceremony, three winners were picked to receive academic scholarships. The first-place winner, Leah Sowell, shown, received $500 and a free birthday party at Newtopia.

Georgia Powell received second place and Amelia Johnson was third place. To enter into Newtopia’s school/class champion program, visit our Facebook page or call us.

• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball

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• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! Choose from 1- and 2-week Sessions and Mother-Daughter Weekends!

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FamilyCalendar Saturday, June 1

10th Annual Miss Firecracker Pageant St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall in Prattville. Pageant is open to females, age newborn to 18 years, with seven age categories. This annual pageant will offer 25 crowns and titles including two Supreme titles, seven division titles, seven optional Patriotic casual wear titles, and seven optional photogenic titles. Registration fee is $70 and deadline for entries is May 25. Applications can be found at www.SterlingMiss.org. For more info, visit the website or call (334) 313-5444.

41st Annual Jubilee Run 7 a.m. Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus St. This traditional event features competitive runs on 8K and 2-Mile USATF certified courses. Both races are $25.

For more info, visit jubileerun.org.

U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour -- Lagoon Park For boys and girls ages 5-14. Age-appropriate competition and yardages. Parent caddies encouraged.

Fun and family interactive. For more info, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536 or quincyleonard@leogolfacademy.com. Register online at www. uskidsgolf.com.

Prattville Kayak Fun Run 10 a.m.-until.

Prattville’s Autauga Creek Canoe Trail.

You must provide your own equipment (canoe, kayak, paddle board, life jackets, sunglasses, drinking water, sunblock, etc.) No glass or alcoholic beverages allowed. After dropping off your kayak at the starting point and taking your vehicle to the ending point, a bus will be waiting to shuttle you back to the starting point. The last shuttle will be at 9:45 a.m. Starts at Creekwalk; Ends at Co. Rd. 4. Take out on Rueben Road.

Prattville/Autauga Farmers’ Market Opens 7 a.m.-noon at the grove on Doster Road across from Gillespie Center and Pratt Park. Along with a variety of farmers with locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs and more, there will be a variety of other vendors with plants, soap, baked goods, and more. A guest chef will create tasty dishes using fresh produce from the farmers. For more info, call (334) 595-0851.

Hydrangea Festival at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Maria Pacheco-West, Lanark grounds specialist, will do a Hydrangea talk, beginning at 10 a.m., and afterwards a tour of the Heirloom garden and Hydrangeas around the pond. Bring your hydrangea gardening questions for expert advice!

Lanark Gardens will also have a plant sale with proceeds benefiting the gardens at the Alabama Wildlife Federation. General admission applies: $5/ person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Old Cahawba BYO (Bring Your Own) Bike Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Come explore on two wheels Alabama’s most famous ghost town! On this one-hour tour your guide will lead you over four miles of mostly unpaved roads, exploring a landscape of relics, ruins, and graveyards. Bring your bike, water and snacks. Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook. com/oldcahawba. Admission is $8/person.

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First Saturday Music Series 6-8:30 p.m. Common Bond Brewers, 424 Bibb Street, Suite #150, Montgomery. Featuring Second Measure. This is a free, family-friendly event. Outside food welcome. Bring the family and enjoy good tunes and good brews. Call (334) 676-2287 or find us on Facebook.

Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. All locations. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety.

In this hands-on workshop, you and your child can discuss the mindset, jargon and strategy of the sport as you build a putting green to master your hole-in-one. Once your project is built, decorate it with paint and stickers. Each child also receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://homedepot.com/workshops/ kids-workshops.

Exotic Pet Expo -- Also June 2 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Alcazar Shrine, 555 Eastern Blvd. Admission is $2 for adults and kids 12 and under are free. Expect to see reptiles of all kinds, exotic birds, mammals, bird toys, bird feed, animal cages, face painting, prizes, concessions and more! For more info, call (334) 279-9174.

Yoga on The Green -- Saturdays thru June 29 The Green at Shoppes at EastChase adjacent to Pies + Pints. This free event is sponsored by Guardian Credit Union.

Michael’s Kids Club -- Also June 8, 15, 22 & 29 10 a.m.-noon. $3 per project. Supplies included.

Ages 3-8. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. June 1 is Fruit Canvas; June 8 is Beaded Suncatcher; June 15 is Father’s Day Puzzle Card; June 22 is Birdhouse; June 29 is Pop-Up Fireworks. For more info, visit www. michaels.com/.

Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market -Every Saturday Through the Summer 7 a.m.-noon. Support Alabama farmers and local businesses every Saturday at EastChase Farmers Market. Find a variety of locally grown produce, whole milk, artisian breads, honey, goats milk soap, eggs and much more! For more info, visit www. theshoppesateastchase.com/ or call (334) 279-6046.

Alabama State Capitol Rehab Poster Exhibit Through June 30 Alabama State Capitol, 600 Dexter Ave. Each year the AL Department of Rehabilitation and the AL Governors Committee on People with Disabilities have a poster contest with the high school students across the state of Alabama. The purpose is to promote awareness of the talents and artistic abilities that individuals with disabilities bring to the job market.

For more info, call Lisa at (334) 242-3188.

Sunday, June 2

Music On The Deck at KowaligaAlso June 9, 16, 23 & 30 4:30-7:30 p.m. Kowaliga Restaurant, Lake Martin.

For more info, call (256) 215-7035 or visit www. russelllandsonlakemartin.com/. June 2 is Jonathan Bloom; June 9 is Matt Smith; June 16 is Ben Sutton; June 23 is Sid Phelps; and June 30 is Murray Brown Band.

Monday, June 3

2019 Summer Theatre Camp at Millbrook Community Theatre -- Through June 7 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For ages 8-18. $80 per actor. Camp includes basic audition tips, basic acting tips, acting games, a role in a 10-minute play, lunch, T-shirt and

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two tickets to the show on June 7. Camp is taught and supervised by Joe Nolin and Vicki Moses. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com/.

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Junior Theatre Camp -- Through June 8 For grades 1-5. Aspiring young thespians will be allowed to explore theatre through workshops, handson crafts, and a full theatrical production at the end of the week. The students will assist with set and props construction, have rehearsals, and memorize lines. $75 per student. Call (334) 595-0850 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov for more info.

Summer Kids’ Series at Chantilly 13 -Mondays & Thursdays through July 27 10 a.m. For all ages. $4.50 (plus tax) for admission!

That includes a kids’ size popcorn and drink and your movie ticket. An American Tail June 3 & 6; Despicable Me June 10 & 13; Meet Stuart Kevin & Bob June 17 & 20; We’re Back: A Dinosaur Movie June 24 & 27; and Madagaskar July 1 & 4. Call (334) 819-1638 for info.

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Wednesday, June 5

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public Noon-1 p.m. The first Wednesday of each month.

Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water provided.

The Big 5K Run 6-9 p.m. Fleet Feet Sports Montgomery, 2934 Carter Hill Rd. The Big Run coincides with Global Running Day and is open to runners of all levels and abilities.

Registration is $25. For more info, call (334) 3565412 or visit www.fleetfeet.com/thebigrun.

Montgomery Biscuits Military Wednesday Also June 12 & 26 6:35 p.m.

Riverwalk Stadium. The Biscuits thank our military men and women with discounted admission and concession prices! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 819-7483.

Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also June 19 Noon-1 p.m. Does your yoga practice need a little artistic inspiration? Join us for this new program to stretch, reflect and relax. Each Artful Yoga session will draw inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the Museum. Led by instructor Nancy Beale. The class is free and suitable for all levels; beginners are welcome. Bring your yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ discover/artful-yoga/ or call (334) 240-4333.

Thursday, June 6

Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -Also June 13, 20 & 27 2:30-3 p.m. ArtWorks at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the arts of different cultures.

ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing, and traditions of the country in focus (this month is The Democratic Republic of the Congo).

Connections will also be made to works in the Museum’s galleries. Classes are limited to 25 students.

First come, first serve. For more info, call (334) 2404333 or visit mmfa.org/.

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FamilyCalendar Sounds of Summer Concerts at EastChase Free concert every Thursday in June from 7 – 9 p.m. near H&M. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy this free, family-friendly event. Sounds of Summer attendees will find local food trucksg and free children’s activities, including face painting, a balloon artist, life-size games, inflatables and much more. Libations and nonalcoholic beverages provided by Little Donkey. Visit The Shoppes at Eastchase online or on Facebook for schedule of performers.

Big Friendly Takeover Tour - Capri Theatre Doors at 7 p.m.; music at 8. General admission tickets are $15 and feature Little Raine Band, Taylor Hunnicutt & Winston Ramble. *You will not receive a hard copy ticket for this show. Your name will be on a list at the Capri Theatre on the day of show.

For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Children’s Movie Matinees at the Capri -- Thursdays and Fridays through July 26 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

All tickets are $2.

Soda and popcorn will be sold for .50 each. June 6-7: Sgt Stubby:American Hero; June 13-14: Teen Titans Go!; June 20-21: Boss Baby; June 27-28: Chicken Run. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Friday, June 7

First Friday Cruise-Ins 5:30-7 p.m. 36 Dexter Ave., Montgomery. The lower

block of Dexter Ave. will be closed off once the featured vehicles are in place. Numerous restaurants and food trucks will be open including Alabama Sweet Tea Company, Momma Goldberg’s, FRIOS Pops, Cuco’s Mexican Café and others. Join us for some free family friendly fun. For more info, visit www.LowerDexter.org or call (334) 273-0313.

Alex’s Lemonade Days -- Through June 9 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, 7078 EastChase Parkway. Enjoy a refreshing cup of lemonade for a $3 donation with all proceeds being donated to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s fight against childhood cancer. Help us reach our weekend goal of raising $100,000. Call (334) 819-5132 for more info.

Friday on the Green -- Also June 14, 21 & 28 6:30-8:30 p.m. Russell Crossroads, Alexander City.

Grab your family, even the pup – don’t forget the leash, a lawn chair if you want, a cooler if you’re thirsty, and join your pals and make some new ones.

For more info, call (256) 397-1019 or visit www.russellcrossroads.com/. June 7 is The Bank Walkers; June 14 is Alex City Jazz Fest; June 21 is Russell Craig; and June 28 is John Bull & Ed Pickett.

Saturday, June 8

Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/events/1374454692792666 /?source=1.

Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration required.

For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@ morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com.

Whole Foods Second Saturday Kids Club 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Each second Saturday, Whole Foods will host fun, hands-on craft activities to teach kids about healthy eating. It’s totally free, and every participant gets a piece of fruit and whatever they make in the workshop!

For more info, call (334) 523-2940 or visit www. wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/montgomery.

Second Saturdays at Old Alabama Town 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Second Saturdays bring special programs for the whole family including crafts, music, lectures and more! For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www. oldalabamatown.com/.

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FamilyCalendar June Riverfest featuring Jake Gill 4-8 p.m. Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce Street.

Vendors will offer food, beverages, boutique items and local wares. Lawn chairs and pets are welcome!

Admission is $10. Visit www.funinmontgomery.com.

Pike Road Arts Center Community Open House 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Pike Road Arts Center, 944 Wallahatchie Rd., Pike Rd. Join us for for hot dogs, art demonstrations, information on upcoming classes, and more. Browse and buy local art and get to know the Pike Road Arts Council! For more info, visit www. pikeroad.us.

U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour -- Prattville Country Club For more info, see June 1 listing.

AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also June 22 For guests and families living with autism or other special needs, AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! This program is available on second and fourth Saturdays (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don’t forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly.

Sunday, June 9

MPAC Presents The Gatlin Brothers 5 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $27. For more info, visit www.mpaconline. org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Second Sunday at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Family Art Affair, Jazz Jams, and our popular docent-led Sunday tours are now on the second Sunday of every month. Bring the whole family for this multifaceted Museum experience Drop in anytime between 2 and 4 PM for this free offering. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

Monday, June 10

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Senior Theatre Camp -Through June 15 For grades 6-12. Aspiring young thespians will be allowed to explore theatre through workshops, handson crafts, and a full theatrical production at the end of the week. The students will assist with set and props construction, have rehearsals, and memorize lines. $75 per student. Call (334) 595-0850 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov for more info.

Good Mornings Start -- Through July 25 9 a.m.-noon. Frazer Activity Center. Good Mornings is a summer recreation program for rising 1st-6th grade boys and girls offered Monday-Thursday through July 25. Indoor and outdoor games, snack time, devotion.

Cost is just $6 per day (additional $2 for early drop off at 7:30 a.m.). Offered on a daily basis, no required attendance or pre-registration needed. Visit http://frazer. church/event/good-mornings or call (334) 495-6456.

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Tuesday, June 11

Prattville Creekwalk Concert Series -Also June 25; July 9 and 23 6:30-8:30 p.m. Autauga Creekwalk behind City Hall, just off South Chestnut Street. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Coolers are welcome, but no alcoholic beverages or glass containers are allowed. Concerts are free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0850. June 11: Kyle Mercer; June 25: Danl Musiq.

Wednesday, June 12

Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

Thursday, June 13

Capri Theatre Presents Grease Sing-a-Long 7:30 p.m. 1978 classic starring Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta. Danny has a reputation for being a bad boy. Sandy has a reputation for being a good girl. High school social structure dictates that they can never be together. You love your family enough to treat them to a fun night of singing and greased lightning, right?

For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Summer Spectacular Concert with the Capitol Sounds + Montgomery Recreators 7 p.m. St. James UMC. The Capitol Sounds will perform music by Percy Grainger, including Lincolnshire Posy, Children’s March, Molly on the Shore and Country Gardens. The Montgomery Recreators will perform a set of classic big band and swing favorites.

Sounds of Summer Concerts at EastChase Details June 6.

Friday, June 14

Montgomery Biscuits MGM Friday/ MAX Fireworks Also June 28 & July 5 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Every Friday, we celebrate what makes Montgomery special. We’ve partnered with local leaders, influencers, businesses, schools, and more to create nights that show how special our Capitol city is. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 819-7483.

Elmore Cty Homeschool Organization Meets Also June 28 10 a.m.-noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round (except during November and December). Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

29th Annual Alexander City Jazz Fest -Also June 15 6 p.m. Strand Park, Alex City on Friday; 6 p.m. The AMP at Lake Martin on Saturday. Kicking off Jazz Fest on Friday night is The Bank Walkers, followed

by Sam Burchfield & The Scoundrels and headlining Friday night’s festivities is Willie Sugarcapps.

Saturday night will open with Nikki & the Phantom Callers, followed by Empire Strikes Brass. Headlining Saturday night and closing out Jazz Fest is Honey Is-

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land Swamp Band. This two-day music festival is free to attend and presented by Russell Lands On Lake Martin. Visit www.theamponlakemartin.com/.

Wetumpka Depot Penguin Project Presents Annie Jr. -Also June 15 7 p.m. both days; plus 2 p.m. matinee June 15.

All roles will be played by youth with special needs (artists) who are partnered with peer mentors.

Join us for this exciting performance empowering children with special needs though theatre! For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Saturday, June 15

U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour -- Aroostook Golf Course in Wetumpka For more info, see June 1 listing.

Archives Summer Symposium: Alabama History in Twenty Artifacts 9 a.m.-4:15 p.m. Hosted by the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History (ADAH), this event will explore 200 years of Alabama’s history through ten-minute presentations on artifacts that are currently displayed in the ADAH’s Alabama Voices exhibition. Cost to attend is $25 for the general public, $15 for Friends of the Alabama Archives members, and $10 for students and teachers. Teachers can receive eight hours of professional development credit. Admission price includes meals and refreshments. To register and view complete schedule, visit www.archives.alabama. gov or call (334) 242-4364.

Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Playhouse Cabaret 7:30 p.m. Directed by Randy Foster as a fundraiser for AIEA and the Playhouse School, The Playhouse Cabaret is a wonderful evening of performances from Broadway and beyond, featuring some of the River Region’s most talented voices. For more info, call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/.

Canoeing and Kayaking at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. Join us for some time on the water, where we will learn about the basics while enjoying some fun in the sun! If you have ever wanted to learn how to canoe or kayak this is the program for you! Life jackets and paddles provided. General admission applies and includes this awesome program: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Ft. Toulouse/Ft. Jackson Living History Weekend 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wetumpka. Living history demonstrations of military, Indian, and civilian life will take place throughout the day. Re-enactors will be dressed and equipped as they appeared in North America during the middle of the 18th century. $4 admission for adults, per day. $2 admission for children. For more info, call (334) 567-3002 or visit https://ahc.alabama.gov/calendar/.

Highlight Tours 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view and latest exhibitions at the Museum with docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. These tours are free and open to the public, no reservations required. For more info, visit http://mmfa. org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

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FamilyCalendar Sunday, June 16

Father’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway.

Free admission for all fathers. For info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

Monday, June 17

Prattville Art Camp -- Through June 21 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for students ages 7-12. Students will be able to work in a variety of art media, such as painting, drawing, clay, collage, etc. They will create several works of art throughout the week. Cost is $75 per week and includes supplies. To register, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Tuesday, June 18

Joe Thomas Jr. Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Cloverdale Playhouse. The Singer/Songwriter Series is a great night of original music and songwriters talking about how they craft their music and performing original works on the Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org/ for more info.

Wednesday, June 19

See Me: Exploring Abstractions at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 p.m. This program designed for students with special needs will explore abstract works in the galleries and then create mixed-media abstracts. Free and designed for ages 6 and older. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa.org.

Thursday, June 20

Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Hello, Dolly! -- Through June 30 7:30 performances except for 2 p.m. matinees June 23 & 30. Based on the play The Matchmaker by Thornton Wilder and directed by Brady Walker. Jerry Herman’s energetic musical is filled with charisma and heart. Matchmaker Dolly Levi is a widow, a

matchmaker, and also a professional meddler—but everything changes when she decides that the next match she needs is to find someone for herself. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com/.

catch and release only. General admission applies and includes this awesome program. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453.

Military Appreciation Day at the Montgomery Zoo 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. Free admission for all military personnel and families. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

Juneteenth Celebration 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Rosa Parks Museum, 252 Montgomery St. Juneteenth is the oldest known commemoration of the ending of slavery in Texas, but is used to mark the overall ending of slavery in the U.S. We are blocking off Montgomery Street between Lee and Molton for the 3rd annual Juneteenth celebration. This free event will have local food and merchant vendors, performances, a children’s area, and free tours of the museum. The band Souled Out will perform and additional performers will be on hand throughout the day as well as retail and food vendors, kids’ play area and a 1950s Montgomery City Bus. For more info, call (334) 241-8615.

Friday, June 21

Sunday, June 23

Sounds of Summer Concerts at EastChase Details June 6.

Food For Thought Noon-1 p.m. The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “Alabama and the Moon Landing,” presented by Brian Odom. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

The Longest Day” Alzheimer’s Association Event This is a DIY fundraiser event where participants can choose an activity of their choice to do. This event happens yearly, on the longest day of the year, known as the summer solstice. The event website is act.alz.org/TLD and provides information about the event details. It is free to register, and you can set a fundraising goal for your team as well. It is an event that anyone of any age can participate in, while doing an activity that they love. This event helps to raise funds for further research into this disease, as well as awareness throughout the community.

Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Presents Kenny G 8 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. Tickets begin at $45. For tickets or more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.

Saturday, June 22

Go Fish at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook Let’s go fishing for catfish and bream in the upper pond at the ANC. Ponds are open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.,

MPAC Presents The Tempations and The Four Tops 6 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. It’s a Motown, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Grammy Lifetime Achievement double header featuring The TEMPTATIONS performing hits such as; “My Girl,” “I Wish It Would Rain” and “Just My Imagination,” in addition to The FOUR TOPS performing hits like: “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch),” “It’s the Same Old Song” and “Reach Out I’ll be There.”

Tickets begin at $52. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Thursday, June 27

Capri Theatre Presents Independence Day 7:30 p.m. 1996 movie featuring Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, aliens, explosions, vruses and Area 51. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Join this monthly program for Museum members during which artists share one artwork apiece and receive feedback from their peers. Enjoy light

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FamilyCalendar refreshments and networking with other professionals in this unique program whether or not you choose to bring artwork. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4365.

Cost: $50 for the series of 12 meetings or $5 drop-in fee for single meetings.

Sounds of Summer Concerts at EastChase Details June 6.

Wetumpka Depot Presents Second Samuel Staged Reading Reunion -- Through June 30 7:30 p.m. performances except 2 p.m. matinee June 30. Written by Pamela Parker and directed by Tom Salter; featuring many of the original cast members.

For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Saturday, June 29

Salamander Search at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. Help us turn over logs and look under rocks and leaves as we search for these slimy little critters!

All materials provided. General admission applies and includes this awesome program. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453.

Sunday, June 30

Patriotic Concert in Prattville 7 p.m. The Prattville Pops and Chorus will present a patriotic concert at the Pratt Park Amphitheater featuring patriotic music as a tribute to our country’s independence and those who have fought for our freedom. Bring your lawn chair and blankets for a family-friendly concert that is free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0850 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Monday, July 1

Movie Monday at the Riverfront -Also July 8, 15 & 22 Movies begin at dusk. Blankets and chairs welcome! ~ Vendors available and picnics welcome. Call (334) 625-2100 for more info.

Tuesday, July 2

U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour -- Wynlakes Golf & Country Club For more info, see June 1 listing.

Wednesday, July 3

Independence Day Celebration Blount Cultural Park. Live music and food vendors.

Kids’ activities. Chairs, blankets and pets allowed.

Fireworks at dusk.

Thursday, July 4

43rd Annual 4th of July Boat Parade 9-11 a.m. Russell Marine – Kowaliga Marina, 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd. Alexander City. For more info, call (256) 472-5665 or visit http://russellmarine.net/ kowaliga-marina/.

SummerFest Fourth of July Celebration 4:30-9:30 p.m. The Waters Neighborhood, 2283 Marler Rd., Pike Rd. As always, Summer Fest will feature food, family-friendly fun and fireworks. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy live music. Food will be available for purchase, but coolers are welcome. The night will culminate with a fireworks spectacular overlooking Lake Cameron, Montgomery County’s largest lake.

Admission is $10 per vehicle. Visit www.pikeroad.us.

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Wetumpka Fourth of July Fireworks 8:30 p.m. Gold Star Park. Sponsored by Wind Creek Casino. For more info, visit www.cityofwetumpka. com/.

Fourth of July Blast: Concert and Fireworks 5:45 p.m. The AMP on Lake Martin, 8878 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic. Come claim your spot on the Grassy Lawn before 5:45, when The Bank Walkers will take the stage with some great Lake Martin based music!

Around 7:30 we’ll have a Hula Hoop Contest and this year the Twist Contest will be back, with prizes for the best hooper and twister! Then around 8, from Gadsden, we welcome The Tyn Tymes! Fireworks will begin at 9, and then the Tyn Tymes will take the stage again and play until 10:30. Tickets are only $10 each and can be found at www. theamponlakemartin. com/.

Prattville’s Independence Day Celebration 9 a.m. Parade through Downtown Prattville, ending at Pratt Park where the Lions Club will host its Annual BBQ fundraiser with music, a patriotic program, and arts and crafts. The Cardboard Boat Races, starting at 10:30 a.m., are a great way for families to work together and compete in a fun swimming pool event.

The day will end with a FREE concert at 6 p.m. at Stanley-Jensen Stadium featuring Creativity and a huge fireworks display beginning at dark. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Friday, July 5

Arti Gras at Russell Crossroads -- Also July 6 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 19 Russell Farms Road, Alexander City.

Artisans and patrons from all over gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! For more info, e-mail tmitchell@russelllands.com.

Saturday, July 6

Guided Nature Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook Hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced ANC naturalist by your side. S ​ aturday programs are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a look around the hands-on Discovery Hall, enjoy the movie specials in the theater, and explore the trails. General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call (800) 822-9453.

Classes

Adoptive Parent Training Classes Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections recruits, prepares, and supports parents adopting waiting children in Alabama’s foster care. For information on adoptive parent classes or to register for classes in Alabama, contact our team at (866) 803-2722 or visit apac@ childrensaid.org.

Baptist East Maternity Area Virtual Tour We invite you to visit our hospital from the comfort of wherever you are. A personal tour of Baptist

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Medical Center East’s Maternity Area is now just a click away. This virtual tour is designed to answer any questions you may have regarding our “familycentered maternity care.” Receive an inside look at our Labor and Delivery Suites, Newborn Nursery, Post-Partum and NICU units. From admission to discharge, this video provides all of the information you and your family needs to know. Visit www. baptistfirst.org/.

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to

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CP The infa clas change, so please call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@ jackson.org to register or for more info.

Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors.

Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns.

Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Childbirth Preparation (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South.

This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 2863466.

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FamilyCalendar Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.

Cloverdale Playhouse Rep Class Series Remaining 2019 dates are: June 3, August 5, October 7 and December 2 from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cloverdale Playhouse Rehearsal Hall. This is a safe space to work on your craft, develop your audition skills, share your newest piece, or just get feedback on your latest artistic endeavor. Guest panels and rotating faculty ensure constant growth and a variety of insight. Even if you don’t perform every time - you can learn a lot by observing! There will be a sign-up sheet if you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions.

CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980.

Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 747-7700 Option # for more information.

Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 747-7700 Option # for more info.

Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@ alabamachild.org.

Infant Car Seat Safety Inspection Baptist Health’s Certified Car Seat Safety Technician will help set your mind at ease. Expectant parents can register for a one-on-one car seat installation session tailored to your vehicle. Our goal is to ensure your confidence in a safe ride home from the

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hospital. Space is limited. Pre-registration required Must provide your own car seat! $10 per car seat payable at the time of inspection by cash or check.

Visit www.baptistfirst.org/ or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org.

Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class.

Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org for more info.

Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130.

Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition

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before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time!

Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL.

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.

Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth.

Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@ jackson.org.

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.

Preparing For A Natural Birth (One Time Class) Baptist Medical Center East. Please bring two bed pillows and a floor mat to class for breathing and relaxation exercise. This class equips expectant parents with natural childbirth options providing them with tools, techniques and coping skills for their labor and delivery experience.

Participants will practice breathing and relaxation exercises along with other comfort measures. This class is most beneficial when your support person attends. Space is limited. Pre-registration required.

Class fee: $20 (couple or single) payable at class by cash or check. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org or call 273-4445.

Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are June 19 from 10:3011 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

Wetumpka Line Dance Classes held at A Chance to Dance, 68 Queen Ann Road, Wetumpka. Country and Non-Country Music for All Ages! CURRENT CLASS SCHEDULE: Mon. Beginner 7:15 p.m.; Wed. Beginner 10 a.m.; Wed. Senior 2 p.m.; Wed. Intermediate 7 p.m.; Fri. High Beginner/Intermediate 7 p.m. *Open Dance to follow class. For more info, call (334) 452-0293 or find us on Facebook.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., at Vaughn Forest Church.

For more info, contact Jill Sexton at 409-9477 or jsexton@childrensaid.org.

Cancer Support

Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS2345 for more info.

OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis.

Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org.

Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800-ACS-2345.

Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000.

General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578.

Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

Divorce Support

DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Come to the Library area.

This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. For more info, call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@frazerumc.org.

Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham.

For class dates and times, call Kathy King at (205) 943-5331 or e-mail kking@childrensaid.org.

DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises.

Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.

Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children

DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays

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at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available).

Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc. org or 241-5125.

Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley. com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous Meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 6 p.m. and Mondays @ 6:30 p.m.: meet at Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US Hwy. 231 N in the Wetumpka/Wallsboro community.

The church is 1 1/2 miles past Tutweiler prison on the same side of the street.

Sundays @ 5 p.m.: meet at Mental Health of America, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery.

For more information about the GA meetings, call (334) 399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker, please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at (334) 277-5100.

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@ aol.com for more info.

Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 279-6677.

Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child.

For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721.

GriefShare meets on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in the parlor of First United Methodist Church Prattville.

Led by Michael Beatty. For more info, call the church office at (334) 365-5977.

GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led

by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.

Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009.

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SupportGroups Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place.

HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202.

Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway.

For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group.

River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs.

Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.

Homeschool Support

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays yearround from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area.

Membership is free. For more info, please visit http:// www.onlineecho.com

Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-3654201), for additional information.

Illness Support

Diabetes Support Group Noon-1 p.m. and 4-5 p.m., fourth Thursdays, Jackson Hospital Park Place Building Suite 302. Are you interested in learning how to better manage your Type 2 diabetes? Would you like support from others as you work to control your diabetes? Sponsored by inpatient diabetes educator Michelle Carothers, this group offers clinical information, advice and tips to make living with diabetes easier for you and your family. Register today!

Call (334) 293-8574 or e-mail michelle.carothers@ jackson.org.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 495-6350.

Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss Support Group Meets at 6 p.m. third Wednesdays at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka. Group is for those living with or caring for someone with memory loss. This will be a monthly event that will provide information, a time to share and listen to others experiencing what you are, a time to be supported in your struggles and to share your victories. All are invited.

Sometimes caregivers just need to talk with those that understand their struggles. For more info, call (334) 235-4151 or visit The Gathering Place Community Respite on Facebook.

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.

Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of

Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for info.

NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance on Mental Illness) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 7205 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. NAMI also presents a 12-week series of free classes on mental illness. These classes are for family members living with or supporting individuals with mental illness.

To register, call Mary Jo at 271-2280 or e-mail classicmjl@hotmail.com.

NAMI Connection (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a support group for individuals with mental illness. It meets every Thursday from 6-7:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Call Mary Jo Logan at 271-2280 for more info.

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SupportGroups

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OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info.

interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions.

Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.

AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@ llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook.

Ostomy Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Highway. Meets every other month on 2nd Sundays at 1:30 p.m. in Room 3101. 2018 meetings are in June, August, October and December. Call 495-6350 for more info.

Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information.

Overeaters Anonymous, Millbrook City Chamber of Commerce meeting room, 34531 Main Street in Millbrook. Saturdays at a.m. Trouble with food?

Do you worry about the way you eat? Overeaters Anonymous can help. It’s not a diet club; it’s a fellowship of people who don’t want to suffer anymore.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. There are no dues, fees, or weigh-ins. Visit our new meeting in the area. All are welcome! For more info, call (662) 425-2010 or visit www.oa.org.

Moms in Prayer International is a Christ-centered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gather to pray for their children and schools.

Meets every Sunday afternoon from 3-4 p.m. at St. James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road. Call Annette Jones at (850) 529-4730 or e-mail Montgomerymipac@gmail. com for more info on joining us or training to start your own group.

Parkinson’s Support, Frazer UMC Activity Bldg.

Room 8114, on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 495-6350.

Parent Support

Century Strong Moms 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 11 Chapel Hill Street in Pike Road. At Century Church, we are dedicated to help-

ing moms in our community be Strong Moms! This ministry is open to all moms in our community. The focus of this group is to build relationships through Bible study, play dates, and moms’ night out. Childcare is available for ages 1-5 years old. Please e-mail lifegroups@century.church for more info.

GirlTime at East Memorial Baptist Church 9:30-11:30 a.m. 2nd Tuesdays at various locations in Prattville. GirlTime is open to ladies of all ages.

Visit eastmemorial.org or call the church office at (334) 365-7500 for info. Childcare is provided at the church.

La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant,

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919.

The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month.

They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google. com/site/montgomerymultiples/home.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery.

2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery.

1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail.com or visit http:// vfcmops.weebly.com/.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

First Choice Women’s Medical Center conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced

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the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet for one weeknight over eight consecutive weeks and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. Confidientiality is assured. Please contact Kathy at (334) 260-8010 or kkay@firstchoicewmc. com for more details and information about upcoming groups.

Post-Abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?”

Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the One who came to set you free.

Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) For more info, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net.

“Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.

Single Parents Support

Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800.

Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info.

SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.

Special Needs Support

Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs.

Participation is free. Visit www.alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook!

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info.

D.A.T.S. M.O.M. (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move), a non-profit parent empowerment organization for parents of children on the autism spectrum (or with related special needs challenges) that focuses on inspiring, equipping and motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@yahoo.com for more information.

Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome. com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com for more info.

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Support Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@ earthlink.net.

Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_ montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org.

Teens/Families Support

Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 2704100 for information about current classes.

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Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

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Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com.

PBS KIDS Kicks Off Summer of Learning

To help bridge the summer learning gap and encourage curiosity and exploration throughout the summer months, PBS KIDS invites kids, parents and educators to have fun while they learn with new programming, resources and events for the whole family. With a new special from Ready Jet Go!, the highly anticipated premiere of PBS KIDS’ newest animated series Molly of Denali, and the unveiling of an updated PBS KIDS for Parents website filled with hands-on family activities, there are summer learning opportunities for everyone. Ready Jet Go!: One Small Step and Molly of Denali will premiere on PBS stations and the PBS KIDS 24/7 channel, and will stream on pbskids.org and the free PBS KIDS Video App. To help parents and caregivers build upon the educational opportunities presented in these series, PBS KIDS is unveiling the new PBS KIDS for Parents site, making thousands of free resources available. The site includes articles, tips, activities and materials connected to fans’ favorite shows, and relevant topics organized by program curriculum and target ages. All summer long, the site will invite families to “Camp PBS KIDS,” where kids and parents can explore topics like space, reading, weather, cooking with math, world cultures, outdoor fun and more together.

Ready Jet Go!: One Small Step premieres and streams June 17. Jet and the gang have a fun night planned with a sleepover in Jet’s backyard, mini-golf, and star-gazing—after all, it’s the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing! When Jet reveals that he’s built a brand new super saucer that can take all the kids (and Sunspot) to the Moon, they HAVE to test it out.

In addition to the new special, a new app, Ready Jet Go! Space Scouts, will also launch in June. Space Scouts includes five games, each fostering kids’ science and engineering skills through building of rovers and astronaut bases; designing and planning missions, and growing gardens across the solar system.

Molly of Denali premieres and streams July 15. The newest PBS KIDS series will premiere as the first nationally distributed children’s series in the U.S. to feature a Native American lead character. Molly of Denali follows 10-year-old Molly Mabary, her dog Suki and her friends Tooey and Trini on their daily adventures, from fishing and building snow forts, to delivering a camera to friends on a volcano via dog sled. Designed to help kids ages 4-8 develop knowledge and skills for interacting with informational texts, the series uses books, field guides, historical archives, maps, charts, posters and more to enhance each of Molly’s adventures. A podcast prequel to the series is also available on mollyofdenalipodcast.org.

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Get a Grip! Toys for Building Hand Dexterity

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

In an increasingly digital landscape of play, some children may be losing some development of their actual digits. Touchscreens don’t offer the same kind of strength and dexterity building for little hands that tactile toys provide. To better prepare kids for regular manual tasks, it’s smart to include toys and games that encourage them to use their hands in challenging and creative ways. Along with cultivating fine motor skills, tactile toys can also improve grip strength and hand-eye coordination. The following items jump start improved finger dexterity and build confidence as kids prepare to take everyday tools in hand.

by Gerry Paige Smith

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Kinetic Sand Box

Basic Skills Board

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For every parent who’s dealt with the impossible-toremove remains of sandbox play, Kinetic Sand is a wonderful mess-free alternative.

It feels a bit like wet beach sand, but this unconventional blend of sand and polymers creates a putty-like sand with increased versatility and reduced residue. Selfcontained in a case that opens up into a play surface, the Kinetic Sand Box includes forms and tools that invite kids to dig in. Intensely malleable, small fingers will find it hard to resist squeezing, poking and twisting through a cool version of wet sand. No matter what shape this tactile medium takes, there’s always a big workout for little hands as they explore every creative potential within the Kinetic Sand Box.

Before they take on the task of dressing themselves, kids can master manual connection tasks with the friendly bear on Melissa & Doug’s Basic Skills Board.

Each of the six puzzle pieces features a different hands-on skill -- a snap, a button, a zipper, a belt buckle, a plastic press-and-release buckle, and a lace (a broader variety of connections than similar toys).

Getting the puzzle parts in place is just the prelude to fastening each piece’s connection on the way to a well-dressed bear. Every activity on the board helps kids develop manual dexterity, fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. Getting ready to get dressed is a snap, zip and a click with the Basic Skills Board.

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TANGLE Jr. Classics

Toddler Bee Hive

Composed of a series of connected ninety degree curves, Tangle joins the potential for continuous motion with an infinity of outcomes. Whether kids are exploring freeform possibilities or focused on creating a specifically shaped outcome, hands and fingers are building fine motor control and strength along the way.

Crafted from colorful plastic, this set of three Tangles is lightweight, quiet and easily stored in a pocket or backpack for solo or group spontaneous play. Ideal for kids (and adults) who have fidget energy to work out, the endless twists and turns of the Tangle Jr. combine stress relief with building manipulative skills and hand coordination.

The Toddler Bee Hive cultivates counting, color learning and hand coordination, all in one delightfully decorated wooden frame. Six colorful bees have a specific matching home in the hive, but they need some help to get where they belong. Tasked with plucking up each bee and returning it to its place in the hive, kids combine concentration with digital control to master the hive. Perfect for shaping proper grip, the tweezers are the real MVP as they cultivate hand strength and fine-tune finger coordination. When the time comes to master pens, paintbrushes and other tools, these little beekeepers will be ready with the hand dexterity they need to excel.

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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 Kindergarten, 75

Newtopia, 57

Frazer Memorial UMC, 64

OB/GYN Associates, 32

2211 Playzone, 55

Frutta Bowls, 39

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 25

Adventure Sports II, 33

Guardian Credit Union, 15

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 87

Alabama Christian Academy, 28, 45

Guild Mortgage, 71

Pet Palace Hotel, 52

AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front

Hempworx, 105

Alabama Dance Theatre, 35

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 32

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 43

Hooper Academy, 13, 70

Alpha & Omega Learning Ctr, 36

Hope Inspired Ministries, 91

Armory Athletics, 83

Inflatables of Montgomery, 88

ASKIN/Synergy House, 105

Jackson Hospital, 53

ASU Continuing Education Camp, 61

Jason’s Deli, 11

Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 21

Jeff Dickey, New Waters Realty, 55

Baptist Health, 2

Judy Barranco Photography, 47

Bell Family Chiropractic, 40

Kingry Orthodontics, 56

Bush Pediatric Dentistry, 81

Kreative Moments, 89

Chapman Orthodontics, 23

Lakeview Baptist Church, 83

Churchill Academy, 34

Larry Chapman, ALFA Insurance, 79

Dentistry for Children, 16

LEAD Academy, 20

Docarmo’s Taekwondo, 21

Learning Tree Child Care, 101

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 97

Lil’ Priss Parties, 16

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 109

Macon East Academy, 3

Eastwood Christian School, 30

Mathnasium, 51

EdTech, 48

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 87

Tonya Speed Dance Connection, 65

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 109

Montessori @ Mulberry, 19

Trinity Presbyterian School, 17, 67

Emergency Solutions, 36

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 7, 73

United Gymstars & Cheer, 31

Evangel Christian Academy, 23

Montgomery Judo Academy, 29

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 39

Family Guidance Center, 42

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 103

Vaughn Road Preschool, 69

Faulkner Baseball Camp, 88

Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 50

XiRepair, 60

First Baptist Church, 4

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 49

YMCA, Montgomery, 29

First Baptist Prattville, 37

New Park, 77

Young Living Essential Oils, 89

Prattville YMCA, 58 Professional Pediatrics, 12 Pump It Up Party, 76 RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back Resurrection Catholic School, 38 Riverview Camp for Girls, 99 Saint James School, 1, 27 Saint James UMC, 95 Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 93 Smoothie King Montgomery, 89 Snapology, 58 Spotless Cleaning Services, 8 Success Unlimited Academy, 24, 41 Sylvan Learning Center, 9, 33 Sylvan Learing of Prattville, 63 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 65 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

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this dish to feast with fish, shrimp or chicken curry, which I learned from my mom.

MP: What is your favorite part of being a mother?

Vinny: Spending time with my boys, and seeing them happy, content and successful. It makes me smile. As a parent, I dislike seeing them stressed because of school or other duties, but for them to succeed, we must let them go through all that, too. As parents, we should be there to support them and give that push of encouragement when they need it. I think it is any mother’s dream to see her kids happy and thriving.

Vinny Chandrasoma

MP: Each one of us possesses some special talent. What “talents” do you see in your boys?

Vinny: Tennis has been on my husband’s side for four generations.

Anjala plays for the Hawks at Huntingdon College, while Dishan plays for LAMP. Dishan also plays the piano, and Anjala was in the Huntingdon College choir.

MP: Vinny, how different was your childhood growing up in Sri Lanka compared to your boys growing up in Montgomery, AL?

MP: Vinny, you always have a smile on your face. What is your secret to being joyful?

Vinny: Quite different.

I remember spending time at my grandmother’s home. I used to roam around her estate with my cousins plucking various tropical fruit trees and enjoying the outdoor life.

We used to play outdoors more often than my kids.

I was involved in my school, but we had free time in the evenings after homework to go outside and play with friends. My boys were at public magnet schools all their lives, so academics kept them busy. We pushed them to be involved in various clubs and community programs, as well as sports, to keep them engaged and active.

Vinny: I tend to forget my worries when I see my friends! We all go through our own set of worries as parents or not, but we are killing our precious time by worrying. It doesn’t solve anything after all. I try to think, Will this matter in another two weeks? We have to come up with small tactics as moms to combat our own negative feelings. Listening to positive things or being around positive people is key. When you are surrounded by positivity, you tend to give off positive vibrations. This is absolutely vital for our wellbeing as parents.

MP: What is something you hope your children are learning from watching you?

Vinny: The ability to adapt to different people. I obtained this ability along the way because I’ve been living in places from Sri Lanka to Canada to here in the U.S. People may be different but, if we want, we can all find common ground with one another. We have the same basic wants and needs after all. With the international families that come to Maxwell, I get to experience that first hand each year. If you treat anyone in a true, fair manner, they will see you for who you are and you will get the same treatment back.

MP: How does your parenting style compare the way you were raised?

Vinny: I am more involved in all aspects...spending time with them, school and extracurricular activities. It was not just my parents when we were growing up, but we had our grandmom, uncles and aunts with whom we would go and stay. My childhood was intertwined with their families as well. Here in the U.S., our children don’t have connections with our parents, aunts and grandparents to that extent, and that’s the reason we take them each year to Sri Lanka.

My mother was strict with us and so I am with my kids to a certain extent. They know how to behave and be thoughtful of others. My dad was the opposite to my mother in disciplining us, and my husband tends to go easy on them sometimes as well.

MP: What advice would you like to give new parents as they begin?

Vinny: Don’t fret too much about little things. I used to worry about how little my oldest ate and how much my youngest ate! It is their bodily making, we cannot do much about that. If something is not right, attend to it, ask for help. There’s no shame in asking for help from the correct people whom you trust. I would shy away from parents who constantly brag, thinking their kids are better than other kids and making other parents feel less than.

MP: Does your family have any special family traditions?

Vinny: Typically on Sundays, we make milk rice or “Kiri Bath” as said in Sinhalese. It is a rice made with coconut milk that we also make for special occasions such as birthdays or Sri Lankan new year. I prepare

Montgomery Parents I June 2019

Vinny Chandrasoma has been married to Maitri (22 yrs), and they have two sons: Anjala (21) and Dishan (18).

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