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Volume 21 Number 5
Columns
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6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
12 Kids Health Watch
Creative Consequences for Children Spicing up forms of discipline can help make positive change.
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Engage Your Kids in Summer Learning
15 fun ways to teach your kids while enjoying summer together.
sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen
46 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee
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50 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Andre L. Harrison
60 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
66 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith
2016 Summer Fun
Our listing leads you to fun activities throughout the River Region this summer!
Families Who Play Together, Stay Together
Learn 10 tips for keeping fit as a family.
On The Cover Isaac (14) and Elsa (11) are the children of Troy and Jenny Stubbs (pictured), owners of Frios Gourmet Pops, and have two siblings, Lucas and Bennett. Isaac enjoys creating music, animation and the outdoors and is working on the rank of Eagle Scout. Elsa loves dance and cooking and hopes to one day be a chef! 5
68 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs
84 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 92 Calendar/Support Groups 103 Advertiser Directory 104 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Editor’sNote While our children naturally have plenty of energy and always want to play, we parents are often tired from our work day and from taking care of all the other responsibilities that go along with being a grown-up. However, hopefully, the warmer weather helps draw us outside to be more active with our families. I can’t think of better memories with my own children than bike rides at the beach, hiking a trail at Lake Martin, zip lining in the mountains, or spending time in the water boating or swimming. Something about turning off technology, and changing up the scenery from our living rooms, helps us tune into each other and connect as a family. With that in mind, we’ve included an article this month that will give you plenty of ideas if you’d like to do a little better in this area. In Pam Molnar’s A Family That Plays Together, Stays Together you’ll find 10 (fun) ways to keep fit with the family. Surely there are two or three of her suggestions we can all incorporate into our upcoming summer! Summer also means it’s time for our kids to have some activities lined up to keep them from saying, “I’m bored,” after the first week of the break passes. Our 2016 Summer Fun Guide is full of area classes, day camps, outdoor fun and more for children to enjoy all summer long. And just because it’s summer doesn’t mean our kids can’t keep their minds sharp and prepped for the next school year. Mandy Fernandez shares her article, Engage Your Kids in Summer Learning, where you’ll discover 15 ideas for incorporating education into your family’s daily routine. You’ll find plenty of variety, and your kids will be having so much fun they won’t even realize you snuck a little learning into their summer! Every month, Montgomery Parents strives to touch on topics helpful to parents at all stages of the journey. This month is no exception...John Rosemond shares how to address siblings with different strengths, Mark Gregston teaches us how to handle the four most common attitudes of teenagers, and Carolyn Jabs explains how to raise kids who can code in today’s digital age. And don’t miss a super helpful article by Sarah Lyons, Creative Consequences for Kids. Here you’ll find tips for thinking outside the box with your discipline strategies. So as you can see, there’s definitely something for everyone! Do share your copy or pick up an extra for a new neighbor or friend. It will help them get connected with the River Region through events in our Family Calendar, become familiar with our local schools in School Bits, or plug into a support group they may be needing. Have a wonderful May! And to all you moms out there...Happy Mother’s Day!
Montgomery Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Montgomery Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen Mandy B. Fernandez Mark Gregston Andre L. Harrison Malissa Hoy, M.D. Carolyn Jabs Sarah Lyons Pam Molnar John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Gena Hill Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell
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Montgomery Parents I May 2016
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 2015 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Addressing Siblings with Different Strengths Q: We have a 7-year-old son and two girls ages 9 and 6. The girls are gifted academically and athletically. He simply can’t keep up with them. They’re even better at bike-riding. As a result, he doesn’t want to participate in sports. If on a rare occasion he plays with the girls, he has to win and becomes very upset if he doesn’t. He’s making a habit out of feeling bad about himself. My husband and I have talked with him about this issue on numerous occasions, but to no avail. Do you have any advice as to how we can address this with him? A: My advice is that you stop trying to
address this with him. You’ve no doubt said all there is to say including anything I might suggest that you say. Your son may not be an academic standout, but he’s smart. He’s heard you. He is simply doing what human beings are inclined to do: He’s seizing the opportunity to make his rather good life into a soap opera—an “oh, poor pitiful me” drama.
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
Sometimes, humans would rather make a drama out of issues in their lives than solve them. The dramas in question get them lots of attention, which is precisely what this drama is getting your son. The fact is that not all of life’s problems can be solved, and the earlier one accepts that fact, the better. It is also a fact that it is not a parent’s job to solve all of a child’s problems and the earlier a parent accepts that, the better for both parent and child. Unfortunately, one of the doctrines of what I call the “Good Mommy Club” says that Good Mommies solve all of their children’s problems (or burn themselves down to a nub in the attempt to do so). Such is the destructive nature of today’s Mommy Culture. Another fact: Because you have no control group, you don’t know for sure whether your son’s avoidance of sports is due to having two very athletic sisters. He might not want to participate in sports if he was your only child. And let’s put this sports thing into perspective: to wit, most of these adult-organized, adult-micromanaged sports will be irrelevant to anything a child is doing
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when said child is a 30-year-old adult. I know a good number of successful adults who did not participate in any organized sports as children. Another fact: When children mope, more often than not they need to simply be left alone. The more parents engage children in discussions of their emotions, the worse those emotions get and the more likely it is that the issues in question will become personal soap operas. A personal soap opera is an albatross around the neck, and a personal soap opera that gets its claws (pardon the mixed metaphor) into a 7-year-old child is likely to become permanent. It sounds like you’re about to step over that line. Talking is not the solution to everything. That’s also a fact, by the way. Sometimes, a shrug of the shoulders and “Well, kiddo, I’ve said a whole lot about that and just don’t know what else to say… I guess you’re just going to have to figure out how to live with (whatever)” is the best response. That won’t produce instant improvement, but it will put you and your son on the proper path. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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And suddenly there it was. Home. I WAS A LITTLE NERVOUS BUT THEY TOLD ME I’D LOVE IT – EVEN MORE THAN WHERE WE’D LIVED BEFORE. SOON WE TURNED IN AND I SAW THE LAKE, A SWIMMING POOL AND KIDS PLAYING EVERYWHERE. OUR HOUSE WAS GREAT, BUT EVEN BEFORE I SAW IT, I KNEW IT WAS HOME.
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Music in May at The Waters’ Town Square
Join us every Sunday in May from 2-4 p.m. for live music at The Waters’ Town Square in Pike Road. Grab your lawn chairs and coolers and invite your friends. Visit www.thewatersal.com. May 1: Gypsy Cornbread; May 8 & 22: Anthony Oliver; May 15: Rachael Wilson; and May 29: Back-Hines Dixie Ensemble
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Flimp Festival
Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Events
For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball. com or call (334) 323-2255. Kids Eat Free May 6 * Start time 7:05 p.m. All kids 12 and under eat free concessions. Military Appreciation Night May 7 * Start time 6:35 p.m. Special pre-game and in-game ceremonies to celebrate our local members of the military. Bark in the Park/Kids Day May 8 * Start time 2:05 p.m. Take your furry friend to the ballgame! All dogs get in free! Every Sunday afternoon game, kids will have the chance to play catch on the field prior to the game and run the bases after the game! Family Faith Night May 13 * Start time 7:05 p.m. Join us for baseball presented in a wholesome, religious atmosphere featuring a pre-game concert by a nationally-recognized music group.
MPAC Presents
Tickets may be purchased by calling (334) 481-5100 or visiting www.mpaconline.org.
3 Doors Down with The Glorious Sons Saturday, May 7, at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $38. Bill Engvall Saturday, May 14, at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $45. Montgomery Parents I May 2016
Agape’s Run for a Mom 5K and Fun Run
May 7 * 7-10 a.m. Vaughn Park Church of Christ. Honor a special woman when you run this Mother’s Day weekend, whether it’s the lady you call “mom” or a special lady you’ve always adored. Whoever it is, make sure to wear or carry something while you run to serve as a reminder of her. For more info, call (334) 2729466 or visit www.runforamom.org.
May 7 * 10 a.m-2 p.m. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts continues its partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet High School for the 27th annual Flimp Festival. There will be live performances by the BTW students, hands-on art projects in the Museum studios, interactive demonstrations with Museum Store artists, a scavenger hunt, concessions, and amazing chalk art created by the public with the festivities being kicked off by the ever popular Do-Dah Pet Parade. This event is FREE for all MMFA members, active duty military and their immediate families. Tickets can be purchased the day of the event and are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Visit www.mmfa.org for details.
Superhero Fun Run/Walk
June 4 * Check in from 9-9:30 a.m.; race starts at 10 a.m. Fox Hollow Park. The course is one mile long, and the event is very family-friendly. Superhero attire is required, but we will have masks ($3) and capes ($7) for sale for those without costumes! Be sure to brush up on your superhero knowledge before you come! There will be checkpoints with trivia questions along the path. Pre-registration cost: $15 per person, with a $40 maximum per family. Cost on race day increases to $20 per person, with a $50 maximum per family. All proceeds benefit a local family’s adoption. Register at www.lynchesloveadoption. wordpress.com. 10
Dog lovers and their pets won’t want to miss the first Fido Fest at The Shoppes at EastChase on Saturday, May 7, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. This pet-friendly, live music event is Montgomery’s furriest addition to the festival season and promises to be the ulti-mutt day for attendees and their dogs. Fido Fest, benefiting the Montgomery Humane Society, will include a wide array of vendors, doggy activities, a k9 splash zone, great food from local food trucks, including On a Roll, That’s My Dog and Urban Pops, and more! Blackfinn Ameripub will serve Bloody Marys, specialty drinks and Back Forty beer tastings. The live music line-up features Federal Expression, Blue Yonder, the Good Doctor, John Bull and Clinton Babers. Tickets for Fido Fest are $10 for adults and free for children 12 and under. For more info or to become a vendor, visit theshoppesateastchase.com or call (334) 279-6046. www.montgomeryparents.com
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Summer Opportunities For Young Actors
Auditions will be held at the Cloverdale Playhouse Saturday, May 21, and Sunday, May 22, at 2 p.m. for The Adventures Of Tom Sawyer written by Mark Twain and adapted by Laura Eason. Young actors ages 8 to 18 are invited to audition for the Playhouse Troupe 2016 production, directed by Jason Morgan, with performances July 29- 31. Visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org for more details or call (334) 262-1530 with questions. Break a leg! Wetumpka Depot Theatre’s summer youth program dates have been announced for June 6-10! Students who have completed 2nd grade up through 8th can enroll in this fun and enriching program. Other exciting programs will be offered throughout the summer for teens. Call Kristy Meanor at (334) 868-1440 or visit www.wetumpkadepot.com. Millbrook Community Players’ Acting Camp will also be held June 6-10 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A recital will be June 10 at 7 p.m. Camp is limited to 20 actors. $75 fee includes camp, food, T-shirt and 2 tickets to recital. Visit http://www.millbrooktheater. com/acting-camp.html.
Urban Slide is Back!!
May 7-8 Visit this family-friendly event as we slip, slide, and party until after nightfall where you can also enjoy the glow-in-the-dark night slide! The slide will be set up downtown on Montgomery Street. The nighttime slide is equipped with LED lights and black lights that will light up the city streets for a truly unique slip-n-slide experience. Other features willl include food trucks, vendors and local businesses, music playing along the entire slide, a bag check area to secure footwear and other belongings, waterthemed games, photo booth, and more! Registration ranges from $10-$30. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. For more info, visit www.theurbanslide.com/events/montgomery-al/.
Autism: ‘Unlocking the Mystery’ Conference
May 13 * 8 a.m.-3:15 p.m. Dalraida Church of Christ, 3740 Atlanta Hwy. Registration still open. Walk-up registrations are welcome. Visit http://specialconferences.com/.
Mayor’s Bike Ride/ Touch a Truck
Saturday, May 21 * 9:45 a.m.-2 p.m. The City of Prattville holds the 5th Annual Mayor’s Bike Ride and 7th Annual Touch-A-Truck event in conjunction with National Kids to Parks Day. The Mayor’s Bike Ride will begin at 9:45 a.m. at Upper Kingston Park and will end at Pratt Park where kids can join in the TouchA-Truck fun. Police cars, fire trucks, dump trucks, bucket trucks, racecars, and more will descend on Pratt Park where children of all ages will have a great time climbing on, exploring, and learning about a variety of vehicles and big equipment and talking to the equipment operators. For more info, call (334) 595-0854.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
Splish Splash Summertime is almost here and it’s heating up. One of the best ways to beat the heat is to take a cool dip in the water. As refreshing as this sounds, keep in mind the hazards that come with it. From 2005-2009, 5,789 people were seen in the ER for nonfatal drowning incidents. Of those visits 52.8% were children under 4 years and 17.5% were children ages 5-14 years making drowning one of the leading causes of unintentional injury worldwide. There are many ways to help cut down on the number of injuries while still having fun in the water. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children learn to swim. Most children over the age of 4 years are ready to learn to swim and taking formal swim lessons can teach them the basics. This should not give parents a false sense of security as they are inexperienced and still need supervision. Some recent evidence has shown that children 1-4 years may be less likely to drown if they have some exposure to formal swim lessons. Determining whether
your younger child should take swim lessons depends on their emotional development, physical abilities, and the frequency of exposure to water. Formal water safety programs for infants under 1 year have not shown and evidence that they are effective at decreases the incidence of drowning. Flotation devices are helpful at keeping children floating but still require supervision as many children are not capable of keeping themselves upright in many of these devices and should not be a substitute for learning how to swim. Your child should wear one if they are on a boat or will be near the water especially if they don’t know how to swim. Having a pool fence that completely encircles the pool can cut drowning risk significantly. The fence should be 4 feet high, difficult to climb, and have a self-latching gate that opens away from the pool. Many above ground pools slip through the loopholes of fencing requirements since they are considered portable and will many times have
no fence at all. Other helpful items are door alarms, hard pool covers, and pool alarms but the most effective of these is an appropriate fence. The most important safety item of all is constant supervision by someone who knows how to swim and knows CPR. All pool owners and parents should know CPR and should be in the water and able to reach their child if they are not a good, experienced swimmer. For children who are experienced swimmers supervision poolside is acceptable as long as the person supervising is not distracted. This supervision should be extended to any circumstance where water is present. Children can drown in as little as one inch of water so bathtubs, toilets, kiddie pools, and even buckets all need supervision or emptying. Now that you know the safety side, go grab your sunscreen and towels and have a great time splashing in the water. Dr. Malissa Hoy was born in Montgomery. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa and earned her medical degree from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, West Virginia in 2007. She completed her Pediatrics Residency in Detroit, Michigan at St. John Hospital and Medical Center. Malissa is happily married to Jade and they have one son.
Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy
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Thank You Teachers! I remember the late Mrs. Irene Culver Williams, Mr. Laron Butts, the late Mr. Leon Hobson, the late Mrs. Rose Sharp, the late Mrs. Alma Johnson, the late Madame Seth, the late Mr. I.L. Adams – just a few of my teachers who had a significant impact on who I am today. Once Mr. Adams told me that my work was “exceptional”. At my young age, I believed he was saying that everyone else’s work was good except mine. I went to him crying. He gave me a tissue … and a dictionary. When I became a teacher, I emulated these great teachers who had such a major impact on my life. They were excellent at
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
providing me with the knowledge I needed. But there was so much more. They treated me with love, kindness and respect. I remember the late Mrs. Rachel Anthony and Mrs. Emma Huff as Sunday school teachers who helped to add to my understanding about who I was as a person and what I could become. There were so many people who taught and guided me. My first and best teachers were my parents, the late Mr. Chap and Mrs. Annie Lois Taylor. May 2-6 is teacher appreciation month. I am grateful for the opportunity to think about and appreciate those who helped make me what I am today. It is also a chance for all of us to be reminded of what our children need today to reach their full potential. Every child needs multiple teachers. People who care about them and provide them with the information and love they deserve; no matter what their skin color, social or economic status, or where they live.
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There is so much potential power in the positive relationship between teacher and student. We work diligently to ensure Montgomery Public Schools have teachers who work hard for our students. Two of our teachers have been recognized as among the state’s 16 best in this year’s Teacher of the Year contest. Peter Crump Elementary School’s Dawn Ellis and John Conway from BTW High School are competing for the top award. To have two of our teachers among the elite speaks highly of all our teachers. We are proud of them and the 2,000 others in our system who devote their lives to children. Please take a moment this Teacher Appreciation Week to remember those who had an impact on your life and thank those who are working to educate your children. Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.
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Montgomery County Schools
ACA Color Guard Wins Medal At 2016 SAPA Championships
Macon East Announces Art Show Winners
Each year, Macon East Academy art students from grades K5 through 12 participate in the school art show displaying their best works under the instruction of art teacher Tiffany Ala. Entries in collage/ mixed media, drawing (black/white and color), painting, photography, printmaking, and water base are judged by an independent panel of local artists in five grade categories. Senior Christian Steyer was the overall Best of Show winner sweeping the black and white category with four ribbons and taking first place in painting. An exceptionally talented artist, Steyer will attend Savannah College of Art and Design in the fall. Other Best of Show winners were: Cooper Milner, painting, K5-1st; Addison Little, water base, 2nd-3rd; Gavin Justice, photography, 4th-6th; Zack Taylor, collage/mixed media, 7th-9th; and Jaycee Cook, water base, 10th-12th. All first- and second-place winners from the local show advanced to participate at the district level competition. Macon East had 22 winners receiving 1st, 2nd and 3rd place and honorable mention ribbons at the AISA District show held March 30 at Lee-Scott Academy. The first- and second- place winners that moved on to the AISA State Art Show April 22 at Faulkner University are listed below. 1st grade – Carson Brown, Drawing Non-color (Birds); 3rd grade – Addison Little, Water Base (Ocean); 5th grade – Wade Desmarais, Drawing Non-color (Feather); 6th grade – Hailey Bradley, Printmaking (3 Flowers); 9th grade – Zack Taylor, Collage/Mixed Media (Apples); 10th grade – Jaycee Cook, Water Base (Lion); 12th grade – Christian Steyer, Drawing Non-color (Stone Reflections). Montgomery Parents I May 2016
For the first time in the history of the school, Alabama Christian Academy joined the guard circuit for the Southern Association of Performance Arts (SAPA). Led by their captain, senior Lindsey McDaniel, and their co-captain, junior Aly Nguyen, the members of the Alabama Christian Academy Winterguard worked long hours to learn and perfect a beautiful and poignant show named “Something in the Water.” The team competed in three qualifying competitions in Georgia. The members took home third place in Scholastic Regional A division at the Indian Winter Classic in East Coweta, Ga. on February 13. On March 19 and 20, the team won third place in Scholastic Regional A division at the Marietta Castle Classic in Georgia. All of these competitions culminated in an appearance at the 10th annual SAPA Championships in Chattanooga at the University of Tennessee April 2, where the team received the Bronze Medal for third place in the Scholastic Regional A division.
Floyd Middle Magnet School Wins First Place in Spanish Club Talent Show
Kamerin Steward and Megan Boswell from Floyd Middle Magnet School brought home the trophy for first place in the Talent Show Dance Group Competition on April 8. The Federación de los Círculos de Español de Alabama (FCEA) sponsored the Spanish Club Convention at the University of Alabama held in Tuscaloosa. Both 8th-grade students from Sra. Henley’s class performed a dance to the song La Bamba. Other students from Sra. Henley’s Spanish class participated in the competition as well. Jada Stringer and Elisa Bozeman competed in the Grammar contest; Lelah Oliver and Modesty Buie in the Art contest; Michael Rosi, Emily Willford, Angelina Unich, Daniel Cuenca and Carlos Ricardo competed in the Cultural Bowl. A total of 31 students attended the field trip. It was the first time for Floyd Middle Magnet School to attend the convention.
Wares Ferry Road Exhibits Artwork at MMFA
Beginning at a special reception from 3 until 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 22, and running through June 26, the ARTWORKS Corridor at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts will feature an exhibit titled “Learning Through Art.” It will include the artwork of 140 third- and fourth-grade students from the Wares Ferry Road Elementary School, who have been enrolled in the MMFA Artist in Residence Program for the 2015-16 school year. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333. 16
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Montgomery County Schools
Catholic Junior Named Wrestler of the Year
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School junior Zachary Van Alst was named All-Metro Wrestler of the year by the Montgomery Advertiser. Van Alst is a five-time AHSAA state champion wrestler with a competitive spirit and the drive to be the best. His fellow Knights with All-Metro recognition for the winter season are: Basketball All-Metro 1st Team Iyana Tate; 2nd team Jessie Clark & B.J. Barker; and Honorable Mentions for Michaelyn Foster and Aleigha Walden.
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
Trinity Sophomore Impresses at State Speech & Debate Contest
Trinity Presbyterian School sophomore Miller Johnson placed third in the state in prose interpretation and fourth in the state in program oral interpretation. Students competed in several events at the State Speech and Debate Competition held at Mountain Brook High School April 2, including Program Oral Interpretation (POI) and Prose Interpretation. Students competing in the POI category must construct a program up to ten minutes in length using at least two out of three genres. With a spotlight on argumentation and performative range, POI focuses on a student’s ability to combine multiple genres of literature centered around a single theme. Johnson’s theme was “empathy,” as she read excerpts from The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt, Empathy by Alanis Morrisette, and No Matter the Wreckage by Sarah Kay. Using short story, parts of a novel, or other published work of prose, students must provide an interpretation of one or more selections with a time limit of five minutes for the Prose Interpretation category. Typically a single piece of literature, prose can be drawn from works of fiction or non-fiction. Johnson read from Cutting from Out Of My Mind by Sharon Draper.
The Rock Holds Successful Car Wash
The Rock School’s Student Government Association hosted a car wash on April 2 to raise money to fund the school’s K-12th grade May Day Celebration.
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MA Middle School Science Club Visits Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine
Seventh- and eighth-graders in the Montgomery Academy Middle School Science Club had the opportunity to visit the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine recently. Students heard about what they need to accomplish at an early age to be a vet. They learned that students in high school should start shadowing vets and work as techs with vets to have around the 2,000 hours needed for most vet schools. Furthermore, students learned that potential vets also need a letter of recommendation from a veterinarian they have shadowed along with many hours of science and a strong GPA. During the visit, MA students visited the anatomy lab and saw skeletons, lungs, stomachs, hearts, and X-rays of many animals. Students were able to pet turtles, snakes, dogs of many different breeds, goats and horses.
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Morningview Elementary presents Annie, Jr!
The Morningview Elementary Musical Theater Department presents the family- friendly classic Broadway Musical, Annie Jr.! This 1977 Tony Award Winner is the heart-warming story of Annie’s adventures, her escape from the orphanage and the wicked Miss Hannigan, to a new life with Daddy Warbucks. Director, Danielle Davis, alumni of the prestigious Music Department at the University of Montevallo, says the students have worked extremely hard and will spark your imagination in the whimsical musical tale! This is the first year in the school’s history that a production of this magnitude will be performed and we would greatly appreciate your support so that it will be a success. The show will take stage on Thursday, May 12th and Friday, May 13th at 7:00 PM nightly in the Morningview Cafetorium. Tickets are $10 for Adults (17 years and older) and $5.00 for children (age 2 years and younger free). We look forward to seeing you as everyone’s favorite little redhead charms your heart! For info, contact Danielle Davis, Director, Danielle.davis@mps.k12.al.us.
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Jeff Davis Student Named Miss Basketball
Jasmine Walker of the two-time champion Jeff Davis Lady Volunteers basketball team was recently named Miss Basketball by the Alabama Sports Writers Association. She is the first Miss Basketball in Montgomery’s history.
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Montgomery County Schools
MA Chorus Takes Overall Sweepstakes in National Contest
For the second year in a row, Montgomery Academy Upper School Chorus took first place in a national competition. This year, the chorus competed in the Heritage National Choral Competition in Seattle. Choruses from Delaware, California, Washington, and Oklahoma competed as well. The Upper School Chorus received first place in the Concert Choir Division, while the Chamber Ensemble received Second Place in the Chamber Choir Division. The Upper School Chorus also received the overall sweepstakes by having the highest scores by two choral ensembles. This was the first year that the school competed with two performing groups. The Chorus is under the direction of Damion Womack and accompanied by Meg Griffin.
Lee High School Sophomore Places In Speech/Debate Contest
The Robert E. Lee High School Speech and Debate Team competed in the Betty Gunn Alabama State Speech and Debate Finals Competition at Mountain Brook High School. Sophomore Yemsrach Dessalew placed in the Top 5 in the Humorous Interpretation category at the competition.
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Holy Cross Show Choir Performs Spring Concert
The Holy Cross Epsicopal School Show Choir gave another outstanding performance recently as the students presented the musical, “The Princess and the Frog.� Singing, dancing, and humor combined to create a memorable experience for the audience as they enjoyed the jazz and zydeco style music. The show choir performed twice at school, once for the other students and once for their friends and families. Then they took their show on the road, finishing the day with performances at the area assisted living facilities stopping long enough to enjoy lunch and relax before moving on to the next show. The musical showcased the many talents of choir members and delighted audiences alike.
ACA Spanish Honor Society Induction
Twenty-seven high school students from Alabama Christian Academy were inducted into the Spanish Honor Society on March 31. These students were honored because of their skills and abilities to learn the Spanish language and were required to have a minimum of 90% during three semesters. During the ceremony, several students stood up to share a story of how they were able to use their knowledge of the Spanish language. Congratulations to the following students: Reed Black, Jameela Broadie, Mattie Davis, Madison Duncan, Lark Edwards, Grayson Evans, McKenzie Farricker, Johnny Henfey, Miriam Hopkins, Cade Horn, Karlie Hughes, Kyra Humphrey, John Wilson Jarrett, Emily Jones, Taylor Manning, Blake Mitchell, Campbell Mock, Anna Grace Murphy, Esther Nam, Aly Nguyen, Keely Nguyen, Anna Katherine Palmer, Colby Rives, Jacey Slaton, Kelly Smith, Avery Standerfer and Wilson Anne Stephen.
5th Annual Crawfish Boil At The Waters in Pike Road
Saturday, May 14 * Noon- 7 p.m. Live music by Kevin Flannigan/Joe Wright Band and Adam Hood. $20 per adult/kids under 12 are free. Bring your lawn chairs, coolers and friends for a wonderful afternoon with live entertainment and kid-friendly activities. T-shirts and drink huggers will be available with all proceeds going toward the Pike Road Patriot fund. This is a fund that has been set up to assist the Pike Road School System with the athletic and arts programs. 21
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Montgomery County Schools
ECA Holds Annual Walk-a-thon
Evangel Christian Academy recently held its annual walk-a-thon. Students from kindergarten through twelfth grade participated in the event. After the students walked the required amount of laps, the entire school was treated to a picnic lunch. After lunch, the elementary classes enjoyed games and the high school students continued with a “Color Walk.” ECA’s students had a wonderful time and are looking forward to next year’s event.
BTW Visual Art Students Awarded Scholarships
The Alabama State Council on the Arts Visual Arts Achievement Scholarship was recently awarded to BTW Magnet High visual arts students Tiiwon Siaway and Lena Lynn and photography student Caleb Griffin. This scholarship is only offered to five students in Alabama. Students who are awarded this scholarship will initially receive $500 upon declaring a major in an art-related field. The scholarship will be doubled if students enroll in specific state colleges.
Catholic Student Donates To Wigs for Kids Mission
Anna Tittle, a second-grade student in Ellie Burden’s class at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Holy Spirit Campus, recently donated her hair to Wigs For Kids Mission, a nonprofit charitable organization that has been serving children suffering from hair loss since 1981. Tittle has been growing her hair for a few years and was able to donate four braids that each were over one foot long. She is already thinking about the various philanthropies for her next hair donation in the years to come. Tittle is shown here before and after donating to the Wigs For Kids Mission. (Photos by Jen Tittle)
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Pike Road Staffer Wins PTA Outstanding Award
Pike Road School administrative assistant Tiffany Walters recently won the Alabama PTA Outstanding Support Staff Award! She was recognized at Alabama PTA’s Awards Banquet. From left are Amanda Hargrove, Candice Longnecker, Tiffany Walters, Angela Lang and Paula Walker.
Bear Exploration Center Receives Check from LifeSouth
Bear Exploration Center was presented a check for most participation by percentage of enrollment in the 6th Annual Five Points of Life Kids Marathon that was held on February 28 at the Wilson YMCA. The school received a check for $250 for having the highest percentage of participation in the 1.2 mile event. This is an annual event and is free registration for ages K-8th grade thanks to generous community sponsors. Visit www.fivepointsoflife.org to learn more. FPOL is a foundation of LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, which supplies 100% of blood products for local hospitals. From left are SueAnne Reynolds, Sha’Mya Burch, Timoni Taite and Elizabeth Hill.
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ACA Student Wins Essay Contest
The fourth-graders at Alabama Christian Academy entered an essay contest given by the Montgomery Humane Society. The students wrote essays (200-400 words) about the “Power of Pets.” Fourth-grader JT Lambert won first prize along with $100 in cash. There were hundreds of entries from Montgomery students.
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Montgomery County Schools
Montgomery Academy Cum Laude Society Inducts New Members
Trinity EnviroBowl Wins Second State Competition
Trinity’s EnviroBowl Team placed first in the State EnviroBowl competition for the second year in a row! This is Trinity’s tenth EnviroBowl championship since 2001. The top 15 schools from five different regions, representing schools from 1A-6A in the state, competed in the state finals. An estimated 50 teams competed at the regional level. Team members are Captain Jackson Scott, Jonathon Green, Dawson Oliver, Abby Tinney and T.A. Sluis. These dedicated team members met almost every day during lunch since the third week of school preparing for the regional and state competitions. And their hard work paid off! Each student won $250 provided by Legacy, Inc., the sponsor and coordinator of EnviroBowl. EnviroBowl is a double-elimination, question and answer competition played between two high school teams consisting of four students each. The questions are designed to test the students’ knowledge of the environment and related fields, such as biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, as well as environmental science. Shown are T.A. Sluis, Jonathon Green, Jackson Scott (captain), Dawson Oliver and Abby Tinney.
Since 1969 The Montgomery Academy has honored academic excellence by awarding membership in the Cum Laude Society to its highest-achieving students. On April 6, the Academy honored its most accomplished scholars with a ceremony to induct new members. Cum Laude membership is earned by the top 20% of the senior class and the top 10% of the junior class each year. Cum Laude is thus more selective than the better-known National Honor Society, which awards membership to all students whose grades fall within a certain range. Only three schools in Alabama have Cum Laude Chapters. Along with parents of the new members, Upper School students and faculty attended the ceremony in Bear Field House. Qualified members of the junior and senior classes received pins and certificates. MA English teacher Scott Richburg was the speaker. The program was followed by a reception for seniors inducted as juniors last spring and for new Cum Laude members and their parents. The president of the Montgomery Academy chapter of Cum Laude is Melissa Anderson; the secretary is Betty Saunders. Juniors inducted were Ford Cleveland, Dora Eskridge, Yu Jin Jeon, Anna Kate Lindsey, So Jeong Park and Elizabeth Robertson. Senior inductees were Taimoor Arshad, Mary Braden Hendon, Victoria Hughes, Scotland Kemper, Allen Millsap, Gabbi Pohlman, Claudia Ann Rutland and Lindsey Warwick. Also inducted were four new members from the faculty: Cindy Ackerman, Ed Billingslea, Valarie Forster and Denise Wentworth. Seated from left are: Scotland Kemper, Claudia Ann Rutland, Mary Braden Hendon and Anna Kate Lindsey. Standing from left are: Lindsey Warwick, Victoria Hughes, Gabbi Pohlman, Yu Jin Jeon, Taimoor Arshad, Ford Cleveland, Allen Millsap, Elizabeth Robertson, Dora Eskridge and Ellen Park.
Catholic’s Ronan Named MaxPrep Soccer Player of the Week
Pike Road Holds Successful Bake Sale
Pike Road seventh-grade students raised $750 for 21 different charities at their bake sale recently! Montgomery Parents I May 2016
MaxPreps and the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) team up each week to select a Player of the Week. Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School junior Ethan Ronan received the honor for the week of March 21. A mid-fielder and foward for the Knights, Ronan #10 has also been named as MaxPreps’ Player of the Game five times during the 2016 Spring soccer season. Ronan is shown with his coach, Hunter Wolfe. Ronan has helped lead the Knights to an overall record of 12-6-1 and 6-1 record in the region. He is the son of Amy Ronan of Montgomery and the late John Ronan. 24
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Eastwood Students Help Company Choose New Logo
Eastwood Christian School students were introduced to the importance of branding to companies by Troy University students and were invited to help a local company choose a new brand mark and logo. ECS students Adler Horii, Mary Louise Cowden and Emmi Reed are shown with Troy University business students Bayleigh Thompson and Linh Hoang.
Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate Wins State Championship; Hall Named Student of the Year
Congratulations to the Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate team on winning its 16th state title in the past 21 years! Teams from across all of Alabama competed in the 60th Annual State Tournament. Montgomery Academy won the Betty Gunn Congress Sweepstakes Award, the Individual Events Sweepstakes Award, the Debate Sweepstakes Award, and the Overall Sweepstakes Award. Madison Hall won state championships in FIVE EVENTS and won the Alabama Student of the Year! This is the first time in the history of speech & debate in Alabama that a single person has won five different events including Student Congress, Debate and Individual Events. The Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate program is under the direction of Jay Rye and Kris Hall.
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ECA Students Compete In AISA Reading Contest
Alabama Independent School Association sponsors a reading competition each year for students in 3rd through 8th grades. The students record every page they read throughout the year on a reading log. The students with the most pages read move on to compete with other AISA schools. The Evangel Christian Academy winners for the 3rd-5th grade division were Kaylee Carter and Eli Wilks. For the 6th through 8th grade category, the winners were Aaron McNeil and Julienne Pharrams. Wilks and Pharrams will move on to represent ECA at the state level.
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AHSAA Approves Rule Allowing Homeschool Students to Play Sports
Homeschool athletes can now officially begin playing Alabama high school sports. The AHSAA Legislative Council approved a new measure allowing homeschool, charter school and virtual school students to play high school sports at the public school for which they are zoned. Details include: -- Non-traditional students will be eligible to enroll at the public school that serves the district where their parents reside. All current AHSAA eligibility and transfer rules will apply to traditional and non-traditional students. -- The homeschool and other students will count for classification purposes. -- Nontraditional students can play only at public schools, not private schools. -- Homeschool and non-traditional students cannot have more practice time than traditional students. The new rule for homeschool and other non-traditional students goes into effect this summer, thanks to another move made by the Legislative Council. The AHSAA Legislative Council, made up of 32 members, considers proposals for by-law and constitutional changes on an annual basis. It takes a two-thirds majority of the 32 Legislative Council members for a proposal to pass. 27
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Bethany Christian Takes Mission Trip to Arizona
On April 3, six students, two parents, and teacher Rhyanne Carrington from Bethany Christian Academy left Montgomery to meet up with their sister schools in Birmingham for the annual South Central Conference of Seventh-Day-Adventist Schools’ 8th Grade Mission Trip. The students traveled to Holbrook, Arizona, to service the Holbrook Indian School. They worked on many building maintenance projects during their three days at the Holbrook Campus. The students washed windows, pulled weeds, painted buildings and dug pipelines on the campus. Students also were able to help with reading and math lessons for the students at Holbrook. The Bethany Christian students were able to live, eat and interact with the Holbrook students for three days, creating bonds with many students that will last a lifetime. The students learned about the Navajo Nation. For most of the Bethany students, this trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity. For many, it was the first time out of the state and on an airplane. Student Government President JaVari said, “This has taught me to be grateful for what I do have. I did not know that there were kids my age who needed my help to have a better education.” The Holbrook Indian School is a boarding school that is home to mostly Navajo Native American students that range from kindergarten to 12th grade. The Mission of the school is to inspire and educate Native American youth to be Christian servants of God and man. Bethany students Javari, Asia, Grace, Tamar, Alexandra and Kalece are shown flatting the ground at Holbrook.
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Catholic Students Participate in YMCA’s Youth Legislature
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Pike Road Class Studies Informational Reading
Ms. Braswell’s Community One Class at Pike Road has started working on an “All About Book” on the shark that each learner studied. Each learner is writing his or her own book but working with their group to decide which facts would be the most important or interesting to include in their book. We have learned that informational texts have labels, captions, table of contents and so much more. We are working on adding these features into our books.
A long-standing tradition at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, seven Montgomery Catholic students participated in the YMCA’s 2016 Youth Legislature. They were, from left, Nate Smith, James Sadie, Brian Anderson, Cheyenne Hayes, Nicholas Brown, Austin Collett and Christian Friday. Though a small group participated in 2016, MCPS had a successful weekend. Junior Brian Anderson did an excellent job serving as the House Pro-Temp and represented the school well. The team had four bills that made it to the calendar with two debated on the floor, including “Investigation into Executive Spending and Spending Cuts” written by junior James Sadie, which was successfully signed into law after it passed unanimously in both the House and the Senate. All of the Montgomery Catholic students were able to debate, and freshman Christian Friday was recognized as a First Year Outstanding Delegate. Both Sadie and Anderson were invited to attend the Conference on National Affairs this summer. Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Youth Legislature team is sponsored by faculty members Justin Castanza and Stefanie Nelson.
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Saint James Electives Place Graduates A Step Ahead
Saint James high school students in Evelyn Shoults’ Photography II and Graphic Design classes spent a day outside their classroom gaining a real world view of different creative industries including printing, photography and graphic design. During the last week of March, Shoults and her students visited Walker360 and Stamp Idea Group in Montgomery to meet with industry professionals and to gain a first hand look into their potential future careers. The students were able to see the creative process—from concept to design to production. This tangibly demonstrated the differences between the industries for the students, but also showed the group the professional relationship between a design firm and a printing company. “It was a very useful experience to see the actual way that design and print companies work as well as how they are uniquely different from each other,” said Whitman Kent, Saint James sophomore in Graphic Design. After speaking with the photographer at Stamp about his recent collection of imaginative and conceptual hero shots of staff members, Saint James Photography II junior Maddie Olszewski said, “They all love their jobs so much—they are willing to go to extreme lengths to capture the perfect image—like rapelling off a building, dancing in the rain on a roof, and standing on a stack of shaking rubble. Producing the most creative image is so important, they are willing to push themselves to the limit for the perfect shot.” Shoults said she exposes her students to various creative industries so they see the technology and programs they use in the classroom are the same that the professionals use.
Dalraida Presented with Check from LifeSouth
Dalraida Elementary School was presented a check for The Most Participation Overall in the 6th Annual Five Points of Life Kids Marathon that was held on February 28 at the Wilson YMCA. The school received a check for $250 for having the most students registered and participating in the 1.2 mile event. This is an annual event and offers free registration for ages K-8th grade thanks to generous community sponsors. Visit www.fivepointsoflife.org to learn more. LifeSouth supplies 100% of blood products for our local hospitals. From left are Coach Ben Walker, students Ella Watson, Parker Jeffcoat and Tristen Rose, and Coach Victor Crowell.
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Bellingrath Band Director Wins Arts Impact Award
The Alabama Alliance for Arts Education has named Bellingrath Middle School Director of Bands D.K. Grissett the winner of the 2016 Alabama Arts Impact Award. According to the Alliance, the award recognizes a group or individual’s “outstanding commitment and dedication for innovative and creative programming, curriculum, teaching, and/or presenting in and through the arts in Alabama.” Alliance Executive Director Donna M. Russell noted that while the Arts Impact Award has been presented annually in the past, it had not been awarded for a couple of years. “This is kind of special,” Russell said. “(Grissett) does some really amazing things at Bellingrath.” Bellingrath Principal Ibrahim Lee said Grissett, who is also Bellingrath’s Teacher of the Year, has had an enormous impact on the school. Grissett, he said, expects excellence from the band students and also is an advocate for them, going on his own to colleges, the City Council and elsewhere in search of more resources. Grissett knows the impact the arts can have on a young mind, Lee said, noting that students who have taken band have also become more interested in math and reading. “Some students need movement, they need music, all those different things, and Mr. Grissett gets it,” he said. Grissett was presented with the award on April 5 during a ceremony at the Capital City Club in Montgomery. He is shown, left, with Bellingrath Principal Ibrahim Lee.
Eastwood Senior Earns Naval Academy Appointment
Eastwood Christian School senior Jackson South received an appointment to The Naval Academy Prep School (NAPS). He will attend for one year and then will be in the Class of 2021 at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. He is the son of Branden and Amery South of Montgomery.
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Montgomery Catholic Sixth-Graders Celebrate Square Root Day
Chisholm Opens New STEM Lab
Students at Chisholm got an opportunity to tinker in the school’s new STEM Lab. Students are learning how to idle synthesizers, create frequency counters and gadgets such as motion-activated security alarms. Chisholm students use LittleBits, accelerometers, potentiometers and proximity sensors to bring their gadgets to life. They are learning to create, innovate and prototype while having fun!
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
Square Root Day is celebrated on a day where the first two digits in the date are the square root of the last two digits. That was the case on April 4, or 4-4-16. The next one will be 5-5-25, which is in nine years, and the students of sixth-grade teacher Mary Pears at Montgomery Catholic will likely be in college. Pears had a fun day full of squares planned for her students including square root activities during math, a square root lesson on Khan Academy, square root models with Cheez-Its, and Square Root BINGO... even square dancing during P.E. class. Another way the class celebrated was by eating “square” foods. Parents provided fun “square” food and snacks for the day, everything from square brownies, Rice Krispie Treats, Triscuits with square cheese slices, graham cracker squares, and even root beer in cups with square bottoms! The day was filled with math fun squared. The Montgomery Catholic St. Bede sixth-grade class members that celebrated Square Root Day on 4-4-2016 were: Tess Barwick, James Bender, Ethan Binns, McKinley Boyd, Cecelia Crawford, Amantha Day, Ansley Erhardt, Ailish Gilbert, Brandon Hickley, Trey Holmes, Michael Jones, Layne Jordan, Aidan McNeely, Will Noell, Matthew Reardon, Samuel Rogers, Noble Seale, Gibson Souriya, Alex Thurman, Alex Wieser and Hart Yost.
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Doxology Performs At Cornerstone
The premier musical group Doxology recently performed for an enthusiastic audience at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy. The eighteen-member group represents Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Boyce College located in Louisville, Kentucky. Students, faculty and parents were blessed by the wide variety of musical genre and the testimony of the ensemble members. Cornerstone was the only Montgomery stop for this outstanding group on their annual spring tour.
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MA Science Olympiad Team Success at State Contest
Following their successful regional competition earlier this semester, Montgomery Academy Science Olympiad Team competed in the state competition at Huntingdon College. It was a busy day of competition from early in the morning until the afternoon. Thanks to our science teachers for helping the students prepare for all of the competitions, and congratulations to all of the students who competed! Individual Results: Write It Do It: 1st Place - Fred Tippet and William Moore; Geological Mapping: 3rd Place - William Moore and Freddie Lieux; Experimental Design: 3rd Place - Anna Kate Lindsey, Freddie Lieux and Robert Kelly; Wind Power: 3rd Place Maggie Smith and William Moore.
Pike Road Students Helping Others
Pike Road eighth-graders are shown making blankets for children in the hospital.
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Montgomery County Schools
ACA Crowns Miss Montala
Alabama Christian Academy student Allison Spencer was crowned Miss Montala 2016 by 2015 winner Charnita Ponder. First runnerup was Allie Crosby and 2nd runner-up, Julia Reed. Miss Congeniality was Courtney Pruitt. The theme for the event was “ A New York State of Mind.”
Holy Cross Sixth-Graders Take Dauphin Island Trip
Sixth-grade students at Holy Cross Episcopal School recently spent two days learning about marine life on the coast. Teachers Connie MacDonald and Abbie Broam traveled with students and parents to the Dauphin Island Sea Lab for two days and one night of learning and fun. The group toured the Estuarium where they hunted for information. At the Touch Lab they were able to touch a variety of different preserved sea creatures. In other areas they were also able to touch many forms of sea life, both living and nonliving. The group went on a boat ride with a net dragged behind to see what they would catch. Students then sorted the net’s contents and threw back what they could not keep. Later students dissected a squid, explored the marsh and played on the beach. They also enjoyed great food and time away from school together.
Pike Road Studies 1920s
Pike Road Community Four learners have been reconstructing equipment and inventions from the 1920s, including a cafe for their Roaring 1920s Exhibit.
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U.S. News Releases Rankings For High Schools in Alabama
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Macon East Inducts National Junior Honor Society
The Macon East Academy chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently held its annual induction ceremony. The National Junior Honor Society is a worldwide organization that consists of middle school and junior high students from around the country. Selection of members is based on five criteria: citizenship, service, leadership, scholarship and character. Each member is expected to maintain a high academic standard while being active in their community through volunteer service projects. The goal of NJHS is to recognize academic achievement and to develop the characteristics of leadership and service. This year’s inductees include: (9th grade) Caitlyn Crawford, Annslie Gourlay, Bailey Nyberg, Anna Grace Tompkins, Sydney Weverink, Bailey Williams, Anne Auston Wright, (8th grade) Sarah Bishop, Kayla Boroff, Nick Marshall, Ally Matthews, Bradford Nickles and (7th grade) Ashley Atkins, Georgia Blaze, Bellah Bright, Will Desmarais, Barrett Hammond, Harrison Hicks, Jordan Hicks, Tyler Hodges, Brianna Johnson, Katherine Kirk, Jonathan Mathis, Grace McIntosh, Makenzie Melnik, Tanner Moore, Emily Nickles, Justin Reynolds, Casie Starling, Aiden Steyer, Sara Stuckey, Lauren Taylor, Max Taylor, Kadence Ward, Caroline Williams, Mary Hunter Wright and Stone Yarnell.
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The Montgomery Public School System has the two best high schools in the State of Alabama, according to the 2016 U.S. News Best High School rankings. Loveless Academic Magnet Program was once again named the best high school in the state, and Booker T. Washington Magnet High School came in second in the rankings. Auburn High School came in at number 12, and Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School rounded out the top 15. Wetumpka High School was number 25. According to MPS, LAMP and BTW were the only schools in the state to be recognized as national Gold Medal Schools. Brew Tech was one of 27 schools in the state to be recognized as national Silver Medal Schools. As far as being nationally ranked, LAMP is ranked 34th in the country, BTW at 393 and Brew Tech is ranked 1,530.
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Montgomery County Schools
Cornerstone’s Sixth Grade Takes History Tour
The students in Cornerstone’s sixth-grade class enjoyed a wonderful spring day full of learning as they toured downtown Montgomery. The students visited the archives and history building, Dexter Avenue Baptist Church and the Little White House of the Confederacy. Topping off the morning was a stop at Montgomery’s world famous Chris’ Hot Dogs. The annual trip planned and conducted by teacher Mona Robinson allows the students to appreciate the history of their home city and connect with many of the topics that the students study in their American history class.
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Pike Road Student Engineers
Pike Road Community Six learners are investigating the engineering design process. They created and tested their designs for tin foil boats.
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SUA Lady Mustang Wins Highest ACSC Award!
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Catholic Students Participate in Annual Lenten Day of Service
More than 300 Montgomery Catholic students in grades nine through twelve, along with faculty members, spent a combined total of over 900 hours volunteering in the community the morning of March 18 for the annual Lenten Day of Service. Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s High School campus celebrated Mass together with Fr. Patrick Driscoll (Class of 1984) before leaving campus. The students worked at 12 locations around the River Region performing various tasks such as cleaning up trails at YMCA’s Camp Grandview, and the Nature Center in Millbrook; working for MANE, The Food Bank and completing projects on campus at Montgomery Catholic among many other works of service throughout the community. The organizations and agencies served by Montgomery Catholic high school students in the River Region were: AWF - The Nature Center, Camp Grandview, C.O.P.E., The Food Bank, Ida Bell Young Park, MANE, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, The Montgomery Zoo, St. Bede Catholic Church Child Center, The East YMCA, The Southeast YMCA, and the YMCA Good Times Center.
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Kennedy Thompson, a senior on the Success Unlimited Academy Lady Mustang basketball team, was awarded the Alabama Christian School Christian Character Award at the conference’s state tournament held at Samford University in February. The Christian Character Award is the conference’s highest honor and requires its nominees to be of the best character and integrity. Each student must demonstrate Christian character in school, community, and church. “Kennedy is such a delight to be around,” said Coach Pat DeProspo. “She always has a great attitude, works hard, and supports her teammates. Her love for Christ is evident in everything she says and does. We are very proud of her and the way she represents our school, team, and conference.”
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Human Calculator Visits Montgomery Catholic
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Mu Alpha Theta Chapter welcomed The Human Calculator, Scott Flansburg, to the Middle/High School campus Dolly Barranco Center on April 7. A fun night for all ages organized by Mu Alpha Theta and their sponsor Terrica Carlisle, Montgomery Catholic welcomed Flansburg and more than 300 people to this free community event. Attendees were awed by The Human Calculator and his speed with math problems, but also in learning a few fascinating trick, like the importance of the number nine, the history of numbers and some great tricks for speed. According to his website, “The Human Calculator, Scott Flansburg, is dedicated to helping both students and adults to overcome their fears related to mathematics. He believes everyone has the ability to be great at math, and has dedicated his life to unlocking the power of human calculator in you.” Flansburg is currently host of ‘The Human Calculator’ TV show on History Channel. He is the Guinness World Record 2014 “fastest human calculator,” a best-selling author with two books, Math Magic and Math Magic for Kids. His television credits include Oprah, Ellen, Stan Lee’s Superhumans, The Tonight Show, The Today Show, Discovery More Than Human and Good Morning America. He is currently chairman of Memoriad 2016 Las Vegas. Visit www.humancalculator.com to learn more. Flansburg is shown below with Catholic tenth-grader Anna Stokes.
Montgomery Academy AP Art Show
Montgomery Academy AP Studio Art students have had the incredible opportunity to participate in their own Gallery Exhibition at Stonehenge. Family and friends gathered April 7 to celebrate the work and talents of Evan Foy, Will Kelley, Gabbi Pohlman, Preston Clark, Haley Terry, Elsa Leonard, Margaret Canary, Emily Ernest and Conner Broach. While browsing the artwork, the guests enjoyed the reception hosted by the parents of these young artists. The event gives students a chance to see what goes into a professional exhibition from start to finish. After selecting and titling their work, students put together an artist statement that gives viewers a brief introduction into their life as an artist, and the meaning and process behind their work. They spend the day before the opening reception at the gallery learning how to hang their work in a professional manner. This experience, in conjunction with speaking about their work to the many attendees at the reception, allows them a glimpse into the world of a professional artist. “We are so grateful to Stonehenge for allowing us to have this each year,” said AP Studio Art teacher Cam Armstrong. “Rusty Gregory and Richard Meztger are dedicated to encouraging new young artists and have been very supportive!” When the students were asked how the show changed how you felt about yourself as an artist, they provided these answers: “I was surprised by how different I felt seeing my art hanging in a real gallery as opposed to our art room,” said Elsa Leonard. “Seeing it hanging on the wall made me realize that my art is more than just an assignment given to me by my teacher. I really enjoyed hearing everyone’s opinion of my paintings. It was interesting how people connected my interest in architecture with my concentration.” Will Kelley said, “I’m my toughest critic so having adults compare my work to a professional was incredibly affirming.” Gabbi Pohlman added, “It was amazing to see the support our community has for the arts. I thought we would have times where no one would be present, but there were new people arriving constantly. It proved that MA is wholistic and appreciates everything from athletics to the arts.” AP art students at the exhibit from left were: Elsa Leonard, Gabbi Pohlman, Will Kelley, Haley Terry, Mrs. Cam Armstrong, Conner Broach, Preston Clark, Emily Ernest, Margaret Canary and Evan Foy.
Wares Ferry Receives Local Support
Staff of Wares Ferry Road Elementary School received $4,000 in checks from Belk recently. Thanks for supporting our school! Montgomery Parents I May 2016
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Elementary sports camps and an educational camp will be offered this summer. All camps are open to the public.
Macon East Academy
15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566 Located 10 minutes east of Chantilly Parkway, just minutes from Montgomery 39
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Montgomery County Schools
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ACA Participates in Earth Day Events
Alabama Christian Academy sixth-grade students proudly show off the pictures they drew to commemorate Earth Day. They, along with other ACA sixth- and seventh-grade science students, drew their art work on Publix paper grocery bags as part of class activities related to the Earth Day theme, “Trees for the Earth.” The bags were returned to the local Publix store to be used on Earth Day April 22.
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The Rock’s SGA Glows for Fun The Rock School’s Student Government Association participated in the Foam Glow Run on March 26.
Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
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Trinity Prepares Students to Be Leaders in the Economy Trinity continues to prepare its graduates for the demands of the most rigorous undergraduate academic environments, but did you also know that Trinity is on the cutting edge in preparing its students to be leaders in the economy? In Middle School/ Upper School Principal Michael Zavada’s Economics II course last semester, junior and senior students had the opportunity to create their own businesses in the “New Economy” in a lesson led by Clay McInnis. Mcinnis became the first commercial producer of biodiesel in Alabama, a year before graduating from Auburn University. In 2008, McInnis founded Montgomerybased SouthernEco, which has brought him national recognition. His biodiesel company was featured in July 2010 on CNN’s “Anderson Cooper 360.” The following year, McInnis was named one of Business Week’s “Top 25 Entrepreneurs Under 25.” After classroom sessions where students learned about the “New Economy” from McInnis, they had the opportunity to design their business using the Business Model Canvas or the concept of the “Lean Start-up” as featured by such prominent entities as the Harvard Business Review. To help get the competitive juices going in the class and heighten creativity, McIn-
nis offered to judge the best business plans. The best was awarded funds to donate to the charity of his or her choosing. Senior Meredith Moore was the winner for her entrepreneurial startup named “Monocle.” Monocle offers local artisans and those in the third world the opportunity to digitally market their wares and control the proceeds of their creation without middle men. Moore’s concept was especially designed to help students in underserved areas develop and market their creative endeavors. As winner of this competition, Moore was able to earmark funds to Root Ministries, an international ministry founded by local Trinity graduate Morgan Hayden that is supported by many local churches. Other creative business models produced by the students in McInnis’s lesson included a company that would
supply technology for ambulances to override traffic lights, a fast food drivethru touch screen designer, and several apps created to help consumers develop cutting edge wardrobes. Trinity’s vision as part of its 2020 Strategic Plan is to “assist students in valuing knowledge and its acquisition while seeking creative and innovative instruction, developing a culture of service from the heart, and approaching any school endeavor from a biblical perspective.” Endeavors like this one in Economics II is helping Trinity students do just that. Clay McInnis is shown addressing Mr. Zavada’s Economics II class.
Summer fun and learning for students entering 1st-12th grades.
SESSION 1: JUNE 6-24, 2016 SESSION 2: JULY 11-29, 2016
KIDS/YOUTH
Orientation | May 28 | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dunn-Oliver Acadome Banquet Room Each session is three weeks, Monday-Friday, with the option of full-day or half-day enrollment.
Full Day | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $425.00 Per Child, Per Session
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PAY ON OR BEFORE MAY 28, 2016 AND REGISTER FOR BOTH SESSIONS ON OR BEFORE MAY 28, 2016 AND
For more information, contact the Alabama State University Division of Continuing Education at 334-229-4686. 41
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Montgomery County Schools
Bethany Christian Academy 8th Grade Visits Grand Canyon
At the end of the 8th-grade mission trip, the students from Bethany Christian Academy were able to spend time visiting the state of Arizona. On April 8, the students were amazed by the vast reach of the Grand Canyon. On that foggy day, they sat out and looked over the South Rim of the canyon and the fog slowly seemed to open up so that the students could see the amazing view. This was the first time for all of the students to visit the Grand Canyon and see a view that so extraordinary. Students were also able to visit the Petrified Forest and Monument Valley on their trip. At the Petrified Forest, students learned that wood could turn into stone over many years. At Monument Valley, students took an open jeep tour of the Valley and the different monuments such as the Thumb, Cube, and 3 Sisters. On this trip the students also learned about the Native Americans that lived on the land and the types of homes they lived in called hogans. The students took back many new experiences to add to their 8th grade school year.
Trinity JV Soccer Teams Finish with Impressive Records
Trinity Presbyterian School junior varsity girls’ soccer team finished the 2015-16 season undefeated with a 12-0 record, culminating in becoming CCC champions! The team allowed only two goals the entire season. Trinity’s JV boys’ soccer team won the Rising Stars JV Tournament. The team finished the season with an impressive 18-5 record!
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MEA Basketball Receives All-Metro & All-State Honors
The 2015-2016 varsity basketball teams continue to receive local and state accolades following an outstanding season on the court. Jesi Garrett, shown, was selected as the AISA All-Metro Player of the Year and was named to the 3rd team for All-State. She averaged 21 points per game for the Lady Knights along with 14.6 rebounds and 5.4 assists. Garrett led the team to the state semifinals along with teammates Lexi Brantley (2nd team all-metro) and Paxton Searle (honorable mention all-metro), and all three participated in the post season all-star game. Mason Blackwell joined the Knights for his senior season and was selected as 1st team AISA All-Metro and 3rd team All-State. Averaging 13.5 points per game, 8 rebounds, 2.7 steals along with 6 double-doubles for the season, he also represented MEA in the all-star game. All-Metro recognition was also earned by juniors Channy Blackwell (2nd team) and Slate Garmany (honorable mention). Along with these athletes, Macon East’s outstanding coaches did not go unnoticed for turning around the basketball program and taking both teams to the state playoffs. Coach Glynn Lott returned to basketball this year as the head coach for the girls’ program and took them to the state semi-finals. He was named AISA All-Metro Coach of the Year with a record of 20-6. Retired AUM men’s coach Larry Chapman proved he still had what it takes, leading the boys team all the way to the final game of the state tournament. His team finished with a 17-6 record as the state runner-up earning him Coach of the Year honors for All-Metro and All-State among AISA schools.
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Montgomery County Schools
SUA Lady Mustangs Win State Championship
The Success Unlimited Academy Lady Mustang junior varsity basketball team completed an undefeated conference season with a convincing win in the ACSC state tournament finals. “I am so proud of these girls,” said Head Coach Pat DeProspo. “They have worked very hard this year and are a great team. The team achieved the first state championship in the ladies’ program at Success Unlimited. No one else will ever be able to have that honor and I know they will continue to make the school proud.” Team members include: Madison DeProspo, Aaliyah Ellis, Mya Barnes, Michaela Maldon-Carter, Tykari Byrd, Hunter Matthews, Torie Floyd and Jamaya Beck.
Lee ROTC Cadet Receives DAR Award
Cornerstone Celebrates Successful Spring Fling
“Show them Jesus” was the theme for Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s annual Spring Fling. The Spring Fling is a celebration of the academic, musical and visual artwork that has been learned throughout the school year. Members of the student body began the evening with a song entitled “Cornerstone,” featuring verses in Latin that were written by the upper school students. Parents, grandparents and school friends were amazed at the amount of material memorized and performed by the elementary students. In addition, older students displayed their National History Day projects as well as performed a skit noting logical fallacies in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Special guest Gene Leichty from the Association of Classical Christian Schools in Moscow, Idaho, was also in attendance.
Lee High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps cadet Makenzie Mote received the Daughters of American Revolution Award during a ceremony at the Montgomery Country Club. The award is presented annually to one cadet who ranks in the top 25% of his JROTC class, ranks in the top 25% of his high school class, demonstrates qualities of dependability and good character, demonstrates adherence to military discipline, and possesses leadership ability and a fundamental and patriotic understanding of the importance of JROTC training.
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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
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1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16
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first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,
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FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF
We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
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• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T O WER • OUTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •
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Holy Cross Students Perform ‘Go Fish’
Unlike the card game by the same name, a recent performance by K4 and K5 students at Holy Cross contained all kinds of fish and sea life. Sharks, seahorses, an octopus and a variety of fish sang, danced, told jokes and spoke the timeless message that being different is a good thing. The classes performed for the school and then repeated the performance for their parents and friends the next day. At the end of the play the fish and other sea creatures took a bow as everyone applauded a delightful performance by a group of very talented students.
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Success Unlimited Academy Kicks Off Softball Season
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Success Unlimited Academy’s Lady Mustang softball season is in full swing and promises to be a great one. “I am excited to announce the hiring of Louie Jinright to the coaching staff for our Lady Mustang softball team,” said Athletic Director Jack Moody. “Coach Jinright is no stranger to the SUA coaching staff. He has coached the baseball team for the last two seasons. When the need arose for a new head coach for our softball team, he graciously accepted the challenge. I am excited to see how far he can take this program.” The Lady Mustang roster includes: Aaliyah Ellis, Lori Baker, Maddy White, Mya Barnes, SarahDiane Moody, Millie Toth, Keyondra McQueen, Ella Wooten, Michaela Maldon-Carter, Ryshondra McQueen, Tykari Byrd, Tiffany Zeremba, Tiye’ Davis, Hunter Matthews and Kamryn Thornton.
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As I have shared many times over the past years, I feel so blessed to not only hold the position of superintendent of Autauga County Schools but to also be a part of such a thriving and committed community. As citizens of Autauga County, we have much
to celebrate. If you have never been to a play at the Prattville Theatre, you are missing out! I hope you will all make plans to attend Once on this Island by Lynn Ahrens with music by Stephen Flaherty on April 28-May 1 and May 5-7. The Thursday-Saturday performances start at 7:00 P.M. and Sunday at 3:00 P.M. Blair Dyson, theatre director, does a wonderful job with all of his productions. It is so much fun watching students, faculty, and siblings perform. I guarantee you will enjoy the show. Speaking of enjoyable, if you could have seen the beaming faces of our students as they were receiving their awards at the Alabama Beta Club Convention in Birmingham, you would have been very proud. The Autauga County School
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
System was well represented. Junior Beta Club members from all over the state competed and several schools from our county placed in various categories. Congratulations to the following schools and students: Marbury Middle School Division II Mathematics – 1st Place Michael McCaulley Prattville Junior High School Language Arts Division II – 3rd Place Carter Stockman Essay Writing – 1st Place Carter Stockman T-shirt Design – 1st Place Paige Drotos, Isabelle Hanson, Patricia Stringfellow, and Ariana Vasquez Poetry Writing – 3rd Place Allison Grimm Handmade Jewelry – 3rd Place Ellie Bolio Special Talent – 2nd Place Kyler Durrence Science Division II – 3rd Place Cleveland Stockman Daniel Pratt Elementary School Spelling – 2nd Place Callie Knox All of the wonderful school activities really lead up to one big event in the lives of our students---graduation. It is truly hard to believe
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that graduation is upon us once again! Congratulations to our graduates; we are all extremely proud of your accomplishments, and I wish each of you the best in everything you undertake. Go Eagles, Bears, Bulldogs, and Lions! Listed below are the dates and times for this year’s ceremonies, so you can start your planning. Autaugaville – 6:00 P.M. on Friday, May 27th at the Davis Theater Billingsley – 6:30 P.M. on Thursday, May 26th at the Billingsley High School Gymnasium Marbury – 6:30 P.M. on Thursday, May 26th at the Auburn University Montgomery Gymnasium Prattville – 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, May 26th at the Alabama State University Dunn Oliver Acadome This school year has been outstanding, but it won’t be long before we are kicking off a new one. I look forward to sharing more good news with the citizens of Autauga County. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.
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Autaugaville Soccer Finishes Successful Season
East Memorial Names Teachers of the Year
Brenda Taylor, above, was chosen East Memorial Christian Academy Elementary Teacher of the Year. She has taught K4 for more than 15 years. Pictured with Taylor is EMCA headmaster Bryan Easley. David Jackson was chosen East Memorial Secondary Teacher of the Year. He is the band director at EMCA and also teaches sixth through eighth grade math. He is also shown with Headmaster Easley.
Autaugaville School’s soccer team had an outstanding year! Alabama Power recently awarded Coach Todd Thayer with a Power to Play grant in the amount of $2,500.
Foundation to Hold Logo Contest
Autauga Education Foundation (AEF) is holding a logo contest and your help is needed! Students enrolled in junior and senior high schools in Autauga County Public Schools will be submitting entries and your vote will choose the winning design. The Autauga Education Foundation was founded in 1995. Since then, AEF has provided more than $300,000 to Autauga County Public Schools, providing sustainable resources and community support which may not otherwise be available. Our vision is to enhance educational opportunities for the benefit of the community in Autauga County. Be sure to visit AEF’s booth at Prattville’s CityFest May 14 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. to place your vote. The winning entrant will receive a $500 scholarship from the Foundation. Come out and support the Autauga County School System and the Autauga Education Foundation! The Autauga Education Foundation helps develop and grow opportunities for our local governments, businesses, individuals and philanthropic foundations to become actively engaged as volunteers and/or investors for our county school system by implementing and uniting fundraising efforts. For more info or to make a donation, please contact Amy Capps, program manager, at (334) 312-7047 or amy@autaugaef.org.
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PJHS Beta Club Attends Convention
Prattville Holds Successful Fundraiser
Prattville Elementary School’s teachers and students raised $11,178.53 during their annual Bobcat Bolt fundraiser. These funds will be used to purchase new playground equipment.
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
After months of preparation, the Beta Club students at Prattville Junior High School showed great skill and endurance at the Alabama Beta Club Convention. PJHS had 37 students attending the convention and all students were involved in some type of competition. With more than 1,000 students from across Alabama in attendance, this was no small feat. The Cats brought home third place in Language Arts Division II (Carter Stockman), First Place in Essay Writing (Carter Stockman), First Place in T-shirt design (Patricia Stringfellow, Isabelle Hanson, Paige Drotos and Ariana Vasquez), Third Place in Poetry Writing (Allison Grimm), Third Place in Hand-Made Jewelry (Ellie Bolio), Second Place in Special Talent (Kyler Durrence), and Third Place in Science Division II (Cleveland Stockman).
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NCSA Names PCA’s Katie Furr to Board of Commissioners
Prattville Christian Academy Principal Katie Furr has been named to the National Christian School Association’s Board of Commissioners. This honor is reserved for only the most respected educators in the association. The National Christian School Association (NCSA) is a nondenominational educational association and accrediting agency that represents nearly 100 Christian schools nationwide. The main responsibility of an NCSA commissioner is to chair the accreditation committee for three or four schools in the association during their accreditation visits. “The NCSA Board of Commissioners consists of the very best academic professionals in the association,” said PCA President Ron Mitchell. “It is an honor for Prattville Christian Academy to have Mrs. Furr be selected for this distinguished and much deserved position.”
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Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education.
Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA
NOW ENROLLING K4-12 2016-2017
3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882
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“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11
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Our desire is to help each child achieve their God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth.
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For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office
Billingsley Junior Receives Tech Award
Shabreanna Goodson, a junior at Billingsley School, was a recipient of the NCWIT (National Center for Women and Information Technology) Aspirations Award. This award recognizes and honors young women who have demonstrated an interest in computer science and encourages them to consider how computing may play a role in their future career aspirations. She was one of thirtyseven recipients from the North Alabama Affiliate. NCWIT equips change leaders with resources for taking action in recruiting, retaining, and advancing women from K-12 and higher education through industry and entrepreneurial careers. 49
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Words Into Action
We’ve all heard the mantra that actions speak louder than words. Although words are powerful and help define our mission and vision, we believe in putting our words into action in Elmore County Schools. We believe all students deserve a quality education that focuses on the WHOLE child. By nurturing their natural inclination to learn, each student can reach their highest potential and flourish. From music, to innovative coding classes, to advanced technology in our media centers, we are putting our mission into action and educating the whole child to prepare students to be responsible and productive citizens in an ever-changing world. This year is the first year we have been able to provide dedicated music teachers in ALL of our elementary schools, and many of our school board meetings this year have featured the musical performances of our elementary
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
students such as the one held on March 14th at Eclectic Elementary School. Their enthusiastic renditions reminded me of the fact that research tells us that music is fundamental to children’s creativity, development of motor and reasoning skills, and aids in visual attention. Studies have shown that music builds mathematical and spatial skills in students, skills that transcend music class and have far-reaching effects on overall development. Providing students with many opportunities to perform musically also allows them to enrich the lives of others while growing confident through their experiences. On the other end of the education spectrum, we are introducing computer coding into our classrooms beginning in 1st grade. In our competitive global market, computer coding is becoming the next step in literacy. Introducing this level of technology and mathematical problem solving in the formative years for our students, and continuing to teach computer coding in middle and high school can prepare a student for the next level of study in college, but also provides complex problem solving skills that can be useful in all areas. In order to prepare for this exciting development, we are sending 62 teachers for grades four through twelve for extensive training this May. Only
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10% of Alabama students are currently participating in this program, but we feel that this is a commitment for our future. As we participated in National School Library Week this month, I was reminded of the impact our librarians have on navigating a new frontier of learning for our students. Our librarians teach students “how to find out more” and foster a sense of exploration. I am grateful to all of our librarians who teach and guide young minds in our schools. They are teaching our children “how to think”, not “what to think”. The mission of Elmore County Public Schools is to provide relevant, engaging, positive learning environments where students are empowered to realize their self-worth through continuous academic, social, and emotional growth. A glimpse into a typical week in our schools, from music class, to an advanced computer coding class to an instructional lesson in one of our libraries reminded me that our mission isn’t just a sentence on paper, but we are putting those words into action daily. Andre` L. Harrison has served as a teacher, acting principal, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services and Human Resources, Assistant Superintendent of Education, and the Deputy Superintendent of Education/Chief of Staff. He is married to Monica, and they have a daughter, Aundrea, who attends the UAB. They reside in Millbrook, Alabama.
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Elmore County Schools
Eclectic Elementary Names March Students of the Month
Kindergarten: Sophia Vittore, Chesney Sullivan, Izabella Donahey, Brayden Ward, Ben Merritt and Conner Holt; 1st Grade: Wyatt Bolt, Miley Goggins, Caden Bryant, Ayden Graham, Emily Miller and Rylan Watkins; 2nd Grade: Samuel Diego Mateo, Annaleigh Collins, Brady Lund, Maggie Rhodes, Jaiden Holman and Hudson Fulmer; 3rd Grade: Destinee Daniels, Hayden Jones, Tianna Benson, Eli Pitchford, Jacobie Brown and Brodie Moore; and 4th Grade: Ky’Asia Brown, Dalton Fuller, Sage Chandler, Maddie Clark, and Cadie Belle Reed.
RES Teachers Enjoy Read Across America
Redland Elementary GATE teachers Carrie Pinckard and Leslie Mattox dressed, respectively, as Elphaba from The Wizard of Oz and Mrs. Frizzle from Magic School Bus for Read Across America week.
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WES Holds Shelter Supply Drive
Wetumpka Elementary School hosted a “Shelter Supply Drive” for the Humane Society of Elmore County April 4-15. Since April is “Prevention of Cruelty to Animals” month, students brought in many items the shelter needs, including bleach, canned dog/ cat food, cat litter, liquid dishwashing soap, and laundry detergent. Students also raised $250 to help the Humane Society of Elmore County.
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Holtville High School DECA Club Visits Auburn University
On March 28, Holtville High School’s DECA student organization and members of the Sports and Entertainment Marketing class visited Auburn University. During the visit, members had the opportunity to talk to various Sports/ Entertainment Marketing representatives at the University. These representatives discussed the various job opportunities and responsibilities in this career field, as well as educational requirements. Students also had the opportunity to tour Jordan Hare Stadium. 53
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Elmore County Schools
Decades Clash At Homeschool Co-op
To commemorate Academy Days Co-op’s 10th anniversary, students and parents recently dressed up in their favorite decade from the Roaring ‘20s through the Awesome ‘80s – and even the 1880s and 1480s! Pictured are the male and female costume contest winners from each third-period history class. All costumed students and parents walked in the parade, and each contest winner received a $10 gift card. Held at Coosada Baptist Church, the Academy Days Co-op meets weekly during the school year for homeschoolers to take classes in subjects such as art, creative writing, Spanish, world history, computer programming, P.E. and science labs. Visit www. AcademyDays.com for more information.
Airport Road Student Council Reads to Coosada Kids
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The Airport Road Intermediate School student council participated in its annual event of reading to Coosada Elementary students. ARIS student council is focused on developing leaders and fostering an attitude for service. The students hope to demonstrate leadership opportunities that CES students will have in just a few short years when they become students at ARIS.
Airport Road Dance Team Wins Award
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Airport Road Intermediate School’s dance team participated in the 2016 Fusion Dance Competition April 2. The girls were awarded the Judges Choice Award, Overall First Place Junior Line Team Award, and placed at the Platinum Level for their dance “On Fire!”
HIPPY Reads Across America
On March 3, the Elmore County HIPPY Program participated in the Read Across America celebration. HIPPY families were served dinner and a beautiful cake donated by Alabama Power’s Kim Adams before being paid a visit by a special guest reader, Federal Programs Director Claire Moore and The Cat in the Hat, Grenay George. Volunteers from the Bridge Builders of Alabama helped the children get into the spirit of the evening by painting whiskers on their faces and helping them color their very own hat and bowtie. The Cat in the Hat gave each child a book, bookmark and sticker. Promoting literacy is part of the HIPPY mission to prepare preschoolers for success in kindergarten. HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters) is a FREE program through the Elmore County Public Schools. HIPPY provides parents with the materials to help their 3-, 4- or 5-year-old preschoolers develop the skills needed to have a successful kindergarten year, which results in a strong foundation for education. The mission of the Bridge Builders of Alabama is to develop among high school students a group of future leaders that will lay aside individual, social, economic and cultural differences and work for the benefit of all. They focus on leadership development, cultural diversity, and community service and outreach with high school juniors and seniors. For more info on the HIPPY Program, please contact Coordinator MaryAnn Forelle at (334) 567-1200 ext. 24009 or maryann.forelle@elmore.k12.al.us. Montgomery Parents I May 2016
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Tallassee Trailblazers Spearhead Artistic Program
Tallassee High School students presented the first program in their Kaleidoscope series (showcasing the artistic gifts of students) and this particular group presented humorous monologues and scenes, some of them written by the kids themselves.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.
WES Students Partner with Child Protect
Students from Wetumpka Elementary participated in a project for Child Protect recently.The canvas was completed with 589 handprints from students, and each handprint represents one child that Child Protect saw this past year. WES wanted to inspire the children with the words “Fly High.� 55
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Redland Elementary Students Place In Poster Contest
Redland Elementary sixth-graders Nadia Choi and Harrison Glackmeyer won awards in the Alabama Farmers Federation Farm-City poster contest. Choi went on to receive Honorable Mention at the state level and will have her poster featured in the 2016-2017 Farm-City calendar.
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Holtville Junior Civitan Club Nominated As Volunteers of the Year
The HandsOn River Region and the Junior League of Montgomery notified Holtville High School Junior Civitan Club members that they were nominated as Volunteers of the Year in the Youth Group category. The students were recognized by their outstanding service and dedication to making a positive difference in the community. Representatives of the Club were invited to a Volunteer of the Year Celebration on April 14 and were recognized and honored for their service.
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Dr. Andre’ Harrison Named Auburn University College of Education Outstanding Administrator
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Wetumpka Holds Art Under the Stars
Dr. Andre’ Harrison serves as the Superintendent of Education for the Elmore County Board of Education, in Wetumpka. At a ceremony in April, he won the Auburn University College of Education Outstanding Administrator Award. During his twenty-three year tenure as an educator in Elmore County, he has served as a teacher, library media specialist, interim principal, acting principal, transition principal, attendance, textbook, and library media education coordinator, and director of curriculum, instruction, interim assistant superintendent for instructional services and human resources, assistant superintendent of education, deputy superintendent/chief of staff, and acting superintendent of education. In addition to his work with Elmore County, he has been an adjunct instructor for Alabama State University in the areas of English and K-12 Education since 1995. He has also served as an adjunct instructor for Auburn University. He was among the first group of certified AdvancED Lead Evaluators in the United States to evaluate school districts using the AdvancED District Accreditation Protocol. He has had the opportunity to serve on and lead External Review Teams at the district and school levels. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in English/Language Arts, a Master of Education Degree in English, a Class A Certification in Library Media Education, and a Class A Certification in Education Administration from Alabama State University. From Auburn University, he obtained his AA Certification in Elementary and Secondary Education Administration, and in 2005, he received his Doctorate Degree in Education Administration and Supervision of Curriculum and Instruction. His wife and fellow educator, Monica, reside in Millbrook, and they are the proud parents of a daughter, Aundrea, who is a graduate of Elmore County Schools and attends the University of Alabama-Birmingham. Their family also includes a 13-year-old dachshund named Oscar. They attend Church at the Brook in Millbrook. Dr. Harrison is shown accepting his award from Dr. Sherri Downer, left, and College of Education Dean Betty Lou Whitford.
May 5 * 5-7 p.m. Beautiful art, live music and salsa tasting
Elmore County Students Awarded at State Science and Engineering Fair
The State of Alabama Science and Engineering Fair was held March 31-April 2, in Huntsville with 19 students from Elmore County attending. Many were award-winners in their categories.
Wetumpka Elementary Clown Troupe
The Clown Troupe from Wetumpka Elementary School performed at the Joy to Life Walk April 16. The WES Clown Troupe is composed of second-, third- and fourth-graders. Students audition at the end of each school year. They have also performed at local nursing homes and churches, The Alabama National Fair, Puttin’ on the Past and graduations.
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Airport Road Honors Students Exceeding Standards
Airport Road Intermediate School held a very special ceremony recently to honor those fourth-graders who exceeded standards in reading and math on their third-grade ASPIRE test. The pinning ceremony was attended by all students to congratulate and support the accomplishments of their friends. It also served as motivation for the thirdgrade students who would be taking the test for the first time this year.
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Elmore County Schools
2016 Sewell Award Finalists Announced
SEHS Senior Wins Rotary Club Speech Contest
At the Prattville-Millbrook Sunrise Rotary Club’s inaugural Speech Contest, the overall winner was Summer Richardson of Stanhope Elmore High School. The first night of speeches was held in February with three seniors each from Prattville High School and Stanhope Elmore High School for a total of six participants. Three students advanced to the final round held at The Alabama Wildlife Federation NaturePlex on March 7. Richardson, a SEHS senior, won. Harris Garner was the chair of the speech contest. The topic on the final night was “What is the greatest threat to the United States?”
The board of directors of the Joe Sewell Memorial Award and John Sewell Memorial Scholarship have released the names of its 2016 senior finalists and 9th grade certificate winners. The award was established in 2005 to recognize outstanding high school senior athletes in Elmore County who have consistently represented the highest ideals of Christian leadership. Each year, one male and one female senior from Elmore County high schools are chosen for the top honor – the Joe Sewell Memorial Award and $3000 John Sewell Scholarship. Male and female category winners are also selected for academics, athletics, leadership, and church, community, and character, with each student receiving a $1000 scholarship. The Joe Sewell Memorial Award is the only program of its kind in the River Region that presents scholarship money in conjunction with the awards to overall and category winners. Additionally, the award serves to honor the legacy of Joe Sewell, a native of the Titus community who established a very successful baseball career in the Majors from 1920-1933 and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. His outstanding character and leadership are qualities that serve as the foundation of this award. His cousin John Sewell, for whom the top scholarships are named, loved sports and spent much of his free time coaching and helping young people. Both men left a legacy in Elmore County that youth and adults alike can emulate. This year’s keynote speaker will be Mike Lutzenkirchen, father of former Auburn standout, the late Phillip Lutzenkirchen. Mike Lutzenkirchen is also executive director of the Lutzie 43 Foundation, the objective of which is to “help others live out the many positive character attributes that Philip displayed, while learning from the circumstances that led to his death,” according to the foundation’s official website. This year’s Joe Sewell Memorial Award banquet will be held Tuesday, May 3, at 6:30 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Tickets are sold in advance only and will not be available at the door. Tickets are available at Alabama Power Company, 400 S. Main St. in Wetumpka or online at www.joesewellaward.org. The 2016 Joe Sewell Memorial Award senior finalists from Wetumpka High School are: Hanna Hollis, Riley Greene, Courtney Wallace and Ryan Crockett; from Stanhope Elmore:Casey Brumbeloe, Ty Naquin, Bennie Smith, Jr. and Cheyenne Davis; Elmore County: Elissa Tiara Brown, Mary Olivia Smith, Shannon Keith Darnell and Joshua Wilson; Holtville: Reagan Law, Kerri Alexis Newton, Brandon Keith Dunn and Chandler Turner Haynes; Tallassee: Yolanda Erin Walsh, Samuel Patrick Smith and Dylan Harley Davidson; Edgewood Academy: Emilee Ellis, Emily Strickland, Jordan James Roberts and Christian Joel Smith; and New Life Christian Academy: Cyan McKenzie Carroll, Julianne Wilkes, John Durden and Brian Owings. The 2016 Joe Sewell Memorial Award 9th Grade certificate finalists are: Wetumpka High School: Garrison Clark, Anna Kate Norton, Cayden Opperman and Daniel Spivey; Stanhope Elmore: CeDayvia Barley, Owen Woodard, Alisson Nicole Evans and Cristo Esteban Rocha; Elmore County: Grace Barlet, Trey Brand, Madison Traylor and Parker Watts; Holtville: Conner Koch, Tucker Jones, Kaylyn Dismukes and Kennedy Grier; Tallassee: Emma Coyle, Andy Baker, Tanner McNaughton and Mary Kate Lackey; Edgewood Academy: Amelia Welch, Tyler Abernathy, Avery Roberts and Tripp Carr; and New Life Christian Academy: Laiken Champion, Kirsten Elsky and Haven Owings.
ECHS Junior Chosen for All-State Band
Wetumpka Tours Bud’s Best Cookies
First-graders from Wetumpka Elementary School went to Birmingham to tour Bud’s Best Cookies. The students learned the process of making cookies and were able taste the cookies. Students from Kristy Shaw’s class are shown. Montgomery Parents I May 2016
Elmore County High School junior Dallas Wade is the first person to make All-State in more than 13 years from Elmore County High School. She auditioned along with 38 other clarinet players from more than 25 schools in the district. She performed in a concert on April 16 in Mobile. Here the top players from the entire state were amassed to perform over a two-day period. This is the highest honor a high school musician can get. Wade can play 28 different instruments and has already received scholarship offers from Troy. 58
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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston
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The Four Attitudes of Teenagers Nothing brings down the mood of your household any quicker than a teen whose outlook has gone south. A bad attitude. Stinkin’ thinkin’ can ruin anybody’s day. At some point, every teen drives every parent crazy over a bad attitude. The symptoms include (but aren’t limited to) the classic eye-roll, the angry outburst, the sarcastic retort, the very loud and long sigh, the cold shoulder, the hot temper, or the look your child gives you that declares, I think everything you’re saying right now is totally ridiculous. Some teens grow into their brash behaviors and wear them like a badge of honor. Others pull a Jekyll and Hyde trick—one minute a sweet and caring child, the next an angry and arrogant teen. You’re never quite sure which teen is going to show up. Recognizing which attitude our teen exhibits will help us address the behavior and find a peaceable resolution in our homes.
Angst - The child with angst demonstrates a constant dread—a fear of life and the world. He hates going to school, is afraid of social events, or angry about the state of the world. This outlook on life is common among kids who look around at the state of our culture— famine, war, disease, murder, inequality—and think, Hey, this is not right! I don’t know if I really care about this world after all. It’s a pretty crummy place. So they develop an attitude of anguish and try to block out the world. Even with their best efforts to remain shielded, they can’t help but express sorrow, worry and fear that spills over into other people’s lives. For the child with angst, dad or mom, you have to put it all into perspective. Show your teen that this world has good things to offer, as well. Unfortunately, it’s the tragic and evil things that receive the majority of the spotlight in media. Take time to point out the myriad of pure, noble, right, and true things happening all around the world. Talk about Montgomery Parents I May 2016
the things worth celebrating. Show your troubled son or daughter that life has more joy and happiness that what he or she can see at the moment.
Anxiety - Maybe you’ve noticed that there
seem to be more anxious adolescents than ever. Our society is silently producing more and more young people who are stressed, stretched, and strained. They feel the concerns and pressures of parents, peers, or culture (and maybe a mixture of all three) and gain an attitude of self-doubt and apprehension. This is the child that develops social qualms, has levels of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and lives in a state of fear about all the terrible things that could happen to them. When you interact with them, they put off an air of restlessness and trouble. Hey, a little anxiety is a great motivator. Pressure can help us study harder, practice more and prepare better. But too much worry and your teen can quickly spiral out of control. If you see your child with these tendencies, give them the freedom to take a break. At the dinner table, don’t talk about what needs to be done tomorrow or the problems of the day. Instead, laugh. Tell a story. Watch TV. Give your worried child an opportunity to breathe and escape the world that overwhelms them. Assure your son or daughter that it’s okay to drop the tension once in awhile to relax and have fun.
Anger - If you have
a teen with an angry attitude, you’re in good company! At some point, every parent experiences the wrath of an angry child. For a teenager, rage can be processed in a variety of ways. I’ve seen irate kids punch holes in the drywall or bang their heads onto the floor in fury. But I’ve also seen teens turn that anger inward, and become depressed, isolated and lonely. In working with teens for over thirty years, I have discovered that all anger is an emotional response to an unmet need. This 60
need could be something important like wanting praise or acceptance, or it could be something trivial like not having a new phone or being grounded. It’s important to realize that anger is not necessarily a bad thing. Everybody gets fired up from time to time. But an angry attitude should not be excused or ignored. If you encounter a fiery flare up with your child, don’t match their temper with your own. Instead, say something like … You’re coming off like you’re very angry. Do you need some time to cool down? If your teen turns their wrath into a cold shoulder, don’t abandon them. Get them to open up and share what’s going on. Also, dig into the “whys” of your child’s anger. Are they mad about something in school? Are they upset about a broken relationship? Are they unhappy with some decisions they’ve made? It’s not a good idea to isolate an angry child. Getting at the root of your kid’s anger defuses the whole encounter and allows discussions to take place on a calmer level.
Arrogance - The arrogant attitude is the one that can really get under your skin. You see this attitude when kids say, Mom, you’re dumb. Or, Dad, you can’t understand. Man, makes your blood boil, doesn’t it? But this cocky attitude is a sign of insecurity, a sense that a teen is not measuring up so they have to put on a false bravado to mask it. If you’re living with a child in need of daily attitude adjustments, you are not alone! We shouldn’t excuse a teen’s behavior or coddle their bad attitudes. Instead, the most important thing to teach your teen is that they can choose their attitude. They don’t have to be controlled by their emotions. They have the power to think correctly and adjust their attitude. And that’s a powerful lesson for us all. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.
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First Baptist Church Montgomery
June 20–24 |
Vacation Bible School
9:00 AM to Noon :: FREE! ages 4 through 6th grade
As kids are submerged in God’s Word, they will discover that Jesus saw people differently. He saw people for who
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For more information or to register, visit
www.montgomeryfbc.org/vbs FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 61
305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.6310
montgomery www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
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Before becoming a parent, the idea of disciplining children seemed fairly straightforward. It follows logic that if you set limits, use consistency, and respond firmly, but lovingly, children will learn to correct their behavior. As I became a more experienced mother, I quickly learned that traditional methods of discipline, such as time out, do not work with every child, every time. Thinking outside of the traditional methods of discipline and trying new and creative consequences may improve behavior.
Here are some ideas: Buy it back - Toys left on the floor after the designated pickup time will be confiscated by a parent. Children will be allowed to buy back each item for $1. (www.notconsumed.com) If the children are not earning an allowance, they may do something extra around the house to earn the item back.
Practice makes perfect - When chores aren’t done to the parent’s standards, have kids “practice” doing it over and over again until they become an expert. (www.imom.com)
Silly faces - “If siblings were fighting, they had to make five faces at each other. They would end up laughing and forget what they were fighting about to begin with.” says Marianne Lincoln, mother of five.
Team spirit - Siblings who fight can also be assigned projects or chores to work on as a team. By the end of the day, they will have learned to work together. 63
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Open door policy - If your teen slams the bedroom door when angry, take away the privilege of privacy and remove the door for a week. Donations - If your kids consistently leave clothing on the floor, collect it for donation to a local charity. If they decide they aren’t ready to donate it yet, have them pay you what it would cost them to buy it from a thrift store. (www.parenting.com)
Safety first - It is not safe to drive when people are shouting and making a commotion in the car. If the kids are too rowdy, pull the car over and wait silently until they are quiet.
Take time - If you child is dawdling and makes everyone late, have them sit out of the fun when you arrive for the same amount of time they wasted at home. Early to bed - If the child has a bad attitude and you suspect it’s because they are not getting enough sleep, move up bedtime by 5 minutes each time you need to remind them to improve their behavior.
Kid’s choice - When children misbehave, try allowing them to choose their own consequence. This method gives them control over their fate, teaches them to think about their actions in the future, and makes imposing the consequence easier. Stand alone - If the child will not stop tipping his chair at dinner, simply take the chair away and have him stand while he eats. (www.notconsumed.com) Teach respect - “I have a friend that has her children wash the other’s feet if they are being disrespectful to each other.” says Shannon, mom of three. With some patience, a sense of humor, and some creativity, parents can use the art of creative consequences to teach their children in a fresh and memorable way that will have lasting results. mp Sarah Lyons is a stay at home wife and mother of six children, including 18 month old triplets. Using creative consequences with her kids has improved their behavior and encourages healthy relationships with each other.
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Watching Small Worlds of Wonder
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
As adults, we may not remember the first time we saw a butterfly or the moment that a ladybug first lit on our fingertips. But for a child, their first encounters with the small creatures in their much larger world are captivating. Maybe it’s because they, like our children, are small and wonderful. The fascination expands when kids take a closer look at the tiny marvels that are typically only glimpsed in their daily habitats. The following child-size habitats bring the insect kingdom into focus for the youngest observers.
by Gerry Paige Smith
Original Butterfly Garden
Fascinations ArtWorks
One of the most amazing transformations in the insect kingdom can be introduced to children through the Original Butterfly Garden. Painted Lady caterpillars are delivered in a clear cup where they can be observed as they eat the included nutrients and prepare to form their chrysalis. Once they are in chrysalis form, they can be moved to the clear netted butterfly habitat so kids can watch the next stage of metamorphosis. Within 1-2 weeks, the Painted Lady butterflies emerge and are ready to be nurtured with nectar until they are strong enough to be released. The Original Butterfly Garden encompasses a uniquely magical experience with one of nature’s most beautiful life cycles in a setting that easily engages kids.
Ant farms are not a new thing in the landscape of kids’ interests, but today’s technology has created a whole new experience. Fascinations Antworks features a translucent gel suspended between clear acrylic windows (with an illuminated base) offering an up-close view of ants as they create a landscape of tunnels. The habitat does not come with ants (which must be ordered separately) but the instructions for preparing the Antworks for the new inhabitants are easy to follow. Once the ants arrive and are placed in their new environment, kids (and adults) can observe behaviors that are typically hidden from our eyes. From teams working on tunnels to ants creating their own graveyards for comrades that expire along the way, this window on the worlds of ants is both educational and entertaining.
WormVue Wonders
Ladybug Land
(Fascinations)
(Insect Lore)
(Insect Lore)
Encounters with ladybugs are not uncommon for kids, but most children (and adults) don’t get to observe the humble beginnings of these helpful insects. Ladybug Land includes a clear domed habitat that is ready to host the metamorphosis of common ladybugs. Kids have a venue where they can closely watch these gentle beetles evolve from larvae, through pupa to the colorful winged wonders that brighten our world. An mail-in voucher for 15-20 ladybug larvae gets the adventure started and instructions for nourishing the new insects gives kids an active role in helping the ladybugs thrive. Supporting life learning and conservation, this little land of ladybugs opens the door to a lifelong appreciation of these tiny garden helpers.
(HSP Nature Toys)
For the kid with an interest in the wigglers, WormVue Wonders is a double-windowed unit with removable light shields that lure worms into view. Just like in the natural world, worms seek out darkness and typically hide below the surface so it’s important the light shields be kept in place over the habitat until kids are ready to view the worms stretching and contracting along windows. The time frame to wormwatch is temporary as they slowly move away from the light, but the opportunity for observations are cool. The kit includes a poster describing the anatomy of a worm as well as a learning guide. Ordering worms and the recommended soil is an additional cost, but worth it to ensure the best experience with WormVue Wonders.
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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NEW FRAZER TEACHING SERIES MAY 8–29, 2016
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FRAZER IS THE PLACE TO BE FOR CHILDREN THIS SUMMER!
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Raising Kids Who Can Code Over 600,000 computing jobs are available in the US, but only 43,000 computer science majors graduated last year. That startling statistic from code.org may explain why 9 out of 10 parents want children to learn computer programming. Even kids who aren’t likely to choose programming as a career benefit from learning something about it. Coding teaches kids to analyze problems, think logically and be persistent about troubleshooting. Getting results also gives kids a sense of accomplishment and confidence that they can make technology work for them. Unfortunately, many K-12 schools don’t routinely offer coding classes. To correct that problem, the White House launched a CS for All Initiative earlier this year. Parents can find out about exemplary school programs at digitalpromise.org and discover local programs in the “Learn” section of code.org. You can also supplement what’s available at school with options like these:
Toys. Three dimensional playthings can teach kids the kind of logical sequencing that is at the heart of programming. Code-A-Pillar, coming soon from Fisher Price, is a caterpillar that does different things depending on how a toddler sequences its segments ($50). Makerbloks.com sells domino size blocks that have different functions. Kids six and up can snap them together to tell stories or create devices like a burglar alarm or a voice changing microphone ($125). Circuit Maze from thinkfun. com teaches kids to think logically about circuits with a series of 60 puzzles ($40). Bots. Robots and droids can be fun for the entire family, but many models are expensive, delicate or tricky to operate. Exceptions include Dash and Dot (makewonder.com), freeMontgomery Parents I May 2016
standing, kid-friendly bots that can be controlled through an app. Sphero.com also sells several durable, rolling robots that will appeal to kids over 8, especially if they are Star Wars fans. Apps. A wide variety of apps claim to teach coding to kids. Two of the better ones come from Hopscotch (gethopscotch.com) Their signature program lets school age kids use code to design games and create artwork. A simpler program called Daisy the Dinosaur is available for preschoolers (Both free, Apple products). Kodable teaches coding practices by having 6-10 year olds maneuver furry, round aliens called Fuzzes through 30 increasingly difficult mazes by using visual arrow icons (Free. Multiple platforms. Kodable.com). The Foos asks elementary age kids to help cute characters solve problems that just happen to involve coding skills such as pattern recognition and sequencing (Free for most platforms. TheFoos.com). Lightbot is a slightly more abstract set of puzzles that can be addictive for older kids (Free for most platforms. Lightbot.com). Hybrids. Several interesting programs teach code with a combination of tangible objects and apps. Bloxels has kids 8-12 create video games by inserting brightly colored blocks into a grid to create a pixellated image. Capture the image on a smart phone and an app helps you convert it into a game with characters and obstacles (bloxelsbuilder.com). Bitsbox.com has a free website, but it also offers a subscription service for elementary school kids. Once a month, kids get a box of new programming challenges along with stickers, small toys and trading cards. Clubs. Cs-first.com offers free modules that can be used in afterschool programs or summer camps. The materials are built around Scratch, a coding language devised at MIT (scratch.mit.edu) and are targeted to students in 4th-8th grade. All you need to start a club is a willing adult and access to one Internet-enabled device for each club member. Lessons. For children who develop a taste for coding, several organizations offer a more systematic way to become proficient. Code.org has links to “Hour of Code” projects that offer free one-hour tutorials introducing students to code. They also have a series of 68
videos that help kids master basic algorithms and offer inspiration from master coders like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg. Pluralsight, a company that provides online training to adults by subscription, offers several free classes for kids at pluralsight.com/kids-courses. At Codeacademy.com, teens who are motivated can master several programming languages through free interactive lessons. Finally, Tynker. com, a program widely used by schools, offers over 1000 coding activities with kid appeal to families willing to pay a monthly subscription. Try the free apps, available for Android and Apple, before signing up. Camps. Summer is a great time to learn a new skill, and several camps will immerse kids in code. IDtech.com offers camps exploring a variety of technical topics at over 150 locations, including many campuses with prestigious CS programs. Their website makes it easy to find an experience that’s age appropriate for kids 7-18. The Emagination program intersperses lessons in coding with more traditional camp activities. Information about locations and programs, including a popular Minecraft session, is available at computercamps.com. Just for Girls. In the past, boys gravitated towards programming more readily than girls. A number of organizations are trying to reverse that trend. Madewithcode.com, a Google initiative, features exciting coding projects developed by young women. Girlswhocode. com sponsors tech clubs and summer camps for girls. And Girldevelopit.com offers supportive women-only classes in 52 US cities. Stuff around the House. CSunplugged.org promises to teach kids some of the basic concepts of computer science through games and puzzles that use inexpensive materials like cards, string, ping pong balls and crayons probably lying around your house. The site which is popular with educators includes downloads and videos explaining how to make use of the materials. With so many options available, every parent should be able to find a program or project that matches your child’s age and temperament as well as the family’s schedule and budget. So what are you waiting for? Get your kids coding now! Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.
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Those Students! Bullying is a type of aggressive behavior that can turn into a physical encounter if not dealt with. Bullying also comes in other forms, such as verbal and psychological bullying. These behaviors become bullying when they happen over time. According to Make Beats Not Beat Downs (MBNBD), 1 in 7 students in grades K-12 is either a bully or a victim of bullying. “I was one of those students,” says Ayshika Wiggins. Read her testimony below. Growing up, middle school was rough for me. It was a time in my life that I have never spoken about because I tried to forget what I endured. I was verbally and psychologically bullied almost every day. That was just as bad. Other kids would say things like, “Ugly!” “Why are her eyebrows so light? Does she even have any?” I could write a book on everything said to and about me! I never understood how people could be so cruel. My situation became worse over time because I did not know who to tell or how to handle it. I wanted to tell my mother, but would she understand? I wanted to cry my eyes out to someone besides myself, but would anyone care? These are the thoughts that were going through my head. Well, how did I handle it? It came out through anger. I tried to distance myself from school, so I didn’t have to face another day of tormenting. By the time my mother noticed a change, it was too late. My smile had become a frown. I would wake up and instantly think of different excuses to tell my mother so that she would not send me, unknowingly, to be tortured by those bullies. In distancing myself from everyone and everything, I found myself falling in love with sports and music. I made myself busy with track and field, bowling, dance classes and baseball. I even joined the middle school choir. All children aren’t able to handle bullying on their own and there are many things parents can do to help. The ROCK Task Force (Respect Others. Create Kindness.) is one of many resources you can use to learn more about bullying and how to prevent it. For more information about ROCK, visit www.ROCKTaskForce.com or email info@ROCKTaskForce.com. In conjunction with the Montgomery Chapter of the Public Relations Council of Alabama, Montgomery Parents is devoting space for a series of articles on bullying to raise awareness.
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School’s out for summer. Teachers rejoice over the much-needed break. Parents like me however worry about how to keep our children engaged and focused during the hottest months of the year. Montgomery Parents I May 2016
The good news is that there are many simple ways for families to incorporate education into the daily routine. In fact anything we do can be a teaching tool, if we adjust our way of thinking. Here are 15 easy, budget-friendly ideas for summer learning using food, car rides, and exploration.
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Fun with Food Meals are a requirement and often the most hectic or mundane in a busy family’s schedule. Food can be educational and fun with options like these:
1. Family Picnic on the Floor – Grab a blanket and have your kids help set the ‘table’ on the floor in your home. Teach the children about etiquette. Look up the history of utensils and how they were made and changed over the centuries. 2. Storytelling Dinner by Candlelight – Have your usual meal around the table but do it only by the light of candles. Begin a story. Tell a few lines. Then pause and encourage another family member to continue the part where you left off. Each of you can take turns twisting the plot while critically thinking and building sentence structure. 3. Make a Recipe – Choose a dessert, snack or breakfast item that everyone in the family enjoys. Older children can help read instructions. Younger kids can pour and stir. Each person can measure ingredients. Discuss the temperature needed for baking. Many math and comprehension skills are used while cooking. Let’s not forget the practical art of patience while waiting for the food to be cooled or finished. 4. Foodie Talk – What’s on your plate? Discuss the food groups being represented on your tray. If something is missing, offer suggestions on how you can bring in that missing item for the next meal. Chat about where food comes from and why that is important. Plan the next several meals together. 5. Local Farm Visit – Now that you’ve talked about where food comes from with children, see it first-hand. Ask around for a local farm, farmers market or store to see. My kids and I have visited small farms, even those who don’t advertise public tours. We have seen so many interesting animals and been able to groom them, collect eggs or learn about their livelihood.
Rev up the Ride Taxi moms and dads spend a lot of time in the car going to and from activities. I’ve learned to put learning activities inside our minivan to create a more enjoyable, knowledgeable ride:
6. Sign Spotting – Have your children locate every sign you encounter while on the road. If they can read or identify letters, have them do so. If not, teach them as you move forward or backwards. Identify the shapes of the signs you pass such as an octagon for a stop sign and a triangle for yield sign. Why stop with 71
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just signs? Check out bumper stickers and other identifiers too.
7. I-Spy – This classic game can be played anywhere but it’s particularly fun in the car. Family members choose a particular object or thing. They select the color of it and other children can guess what it might be. Doing this activity in the car causes everyone to use a keen eye to find things worth spying in tighter spaces. 8. Rhyming Words - My two children and I like to play rhyming word phrases. My threeyear-old and my eight-year-old love to conjure up words that end in the same sound. I will start a sentence and they will finish it. We also jump in with all words we can think of that rhyme then we switch to a new sound. This is a great vocabulary tool and oral poetry lesson too. 9. Drive the Cart – As you shop in local stores for household items, allow more time for kids to practice being the cart driver. On a less crowded aisle, have your child maneuver the shopping cart up and down. Let children enhance their motor skills as they turn corners and not bump into cans of food or cleaning supplies. This may be good practice for driving a real vehicle later in life. 10. Create an Emergency Fun Car Kit – Fill a tote bag or back pack with entertainment that the family may enjoy on unexpected delays or impromptu visits to new places. Have your children put their favorite things in the bag. Keep that bag in your car and change it out as needed. Suggestions to include: chalk for drawing on sidewalks, coloring books with crayons, sandals for a walk on the beach, and
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
extra dollars and coins for sudden ice cream or popsicle opportunities.
Explore More Families can learn by acting more like explorers. Propose your kids develop their own expeditions. Here’s a road map of ideas:
11. Scavenge About - I love to encourage my children to go on a scavenger hunt. From locating toilet paper to a kitchen pot or pan, my kids feel a sense of accomplishment as they mark each item off their quest list. If the weather is nice outside, have your hunters go exploring for leaves, rocks, bird feathers, and more. They can create their own list by writing or drawing things to seek. 12. Overcome Obstacles – Our family will routinely make an obstacle course in our back yard. We will grab random objects like a hula hoop, baseball bat, jump rope, lawn chairs, buckets and more. We take turns setting up the course, having participants run backwards or balance the bat in one hand while jumping on one foot. These races involve critical thinking and physical activity, the best of both worlds for children to expand their minds and limbs. 13. Question Box – Kids have so many questions and parents do not always have the time to address each inquiry. We created a question box. When we do not know the answer to a question or when we simply don’t have the time to go look for the fact, we
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write it down and place it there for later. At a future time when we’re not busy, we pull out the question. We then turn to the internet or library as resources to learn.
14. Reading Adventure – Reading a book is always a great way to go on an adventure. Take your children to the local library to borrow books. They enjoy having a library card. Ask your kids questions about each book to test their comprehension. Look up meanings of words they don’t know. Start a glossary list of words learned. Let your kids choose their favorite stories and make their own summer reading lists. 15. Walk the Talk – Families can wind down a busy day by going for an evening walk around the neighborhood. A leisure stroll is a great way to help everyone feel less stressed. By talking casually with your children while being in nature, you all gain an appreciation for each other’s company and surroundings. This exercise is good for the mind, body and soul. These are just a few starting points to help kick off a summer of fun. Invite your kids to help in planning special projects and ventures. The entire family can learn and grow together before school is back in session again. mp Mandy B. Fernandez is a writer living in Pensacola, Florida with her husband and two children. She writes creatively and professionally on topics such as family life, parenting, natural foods, education, and business. In addition she loves sharing humorous stories, poetry and essays about womanhood and motherhood. She is completing her first children’s book. Learn more about her at www.writtenbymandy.com.
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• Sylvan Learning Center
(ad on page 14)
2640 Zelda Rd., 262.0043. Study skills, (courses for credit) writing/ grammar, reading, math and SAT/ACT college preparation. Also individualized tutoring. Diagnostic evaluation. Students improve skills, becoming more motivated and gaining in self-confidence. Certified teachers.
Art/Music/ Theater
Educational/Tutoring • Camp Success @ Success Unlimited (ad on page 32)
4500 Vaughn Road, 213-0803 Arts...Academics...Fun! One week sessions for grades 1-6. June 13-16 and July 11-14; 8:30am to 3:30 pm daily. Cost: $175 per session with free t-shirt. Register by May 23 and receive $15 discount. Visit www. suacademy.com.
• Churchill Academy (ad on page 35)
Lisa Schroeder, 270.4225 Tutoring available for summer. Grades K-12. Oneon-one tutoring. Call for rates. Times at parents’ convenience. • Enjoy Learning Center 2500 Fairlane Dr., Bldg 2 Suite 203 (in Executive Park, east of Montgomery Mall) 625.9535. One-on-one tutoring for ages 4 to adult. Math, science, reading, comprehension, phonics, spelling, writing, graduation exit exam, ACT and SAT. Certified, skilled teachers. Credit/debit cards accepted.
• Huntington Learning Center (ad on page 23)
2800 Zelda Rd., 277.9200 Individual testing and tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 - adult.
• Macon East Academy Educational Camps (ad on page 39)
15396 Vaughn Road, 334.277.6566 July Jammin Educational Camp for Grades K5-6th, July 11-15, 9 am to 2 pm, $140 Art Camp for grades 3-8, July 18-22, 9 am-12 pm, $100 Call or visit www.maconeast.net for more information. • MasterRead 2941-A Zelda Rd., 271.6295 Grades K-12 individual tutoring. Sessions for reading, comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, math, composition, spelling, study skills and ACT/SAT preparation and Exit Exam preparation. Montgomery Parents I May 2016
• Abrakadoodle Summer Art Camps and Classes Abrakadoodle camps are designed for kids ages 3-5 and 6-12, and we bring everything schools and community sites need to offer an exceptional art experience: well-trained teachers, awesome art camp themes with the perfect art lessons, tools and materials to engage kids in fun art adventures. Abrakadoodle camp programs immerse kids in design, exploration, creativity, planning and problem solving in an environment that is packed with art activities that kids love! Abrakadoodle campers can get messy while experimenting with art. As kids unleash their creative potential, they will: Build skills as they discover art techniques, styles and artists, Use a wide variety of art materials to make original creations, Experiment and problem-solve with inspiring activities, Enjoy fun social interaction via collaborative art adventures, Play joy-filled games Develop CREATIVITY. Please visit our website at www.abrakadoodle.com/AL01 for Art classes, camp locations and registration. To be a camp host site call (334) 265.5758 or Email: sparker@abrakadoodle.com
• Alabama Christian Academy Grow Camps (ads on pages 7 and 73)
4700 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery Email: summercamp@alabamachristian.com Phone: (334) 277-1985; May 23- July 22 With more than 30 summer enrichment programs in athletics, arts, academics, and fun, our campers have a daily opportunity to make new friends, explore new talents and experiences in a safe, Christian environment. With an incredible group of trained counselors, your child will be encouraged and celebrated in all they do. See why hundreds of families choose ACA as their summer camp option each year. Ages 5 years to 12th grade. Visit aca.growcamps.com for details.
• ASU Middle School Music Camp (ad on page 79)
Hosted by Alabama State University Dept. of Music For rising 7th-9th grade band and choral students with a minimum of one year experience. Bring your own instrument. June 27-30; 9 am to 4:30 pm; $199 (includes lunch, afternoon snack and t-shirt); Friends and family showcase on last day. Please visit www.alasu.edu/ msmc for an application or call 334.229.4341.
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• Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery 241.ARTS (2787)* Lot of Summer Programs to choose from. Dates and programs to be announced in May. Please call for more information. Please call for more information on class types and time. • ASU Tonea Stewart’s Performing Arts Camps Call 334.229.6755 or visit toneastewartcamps.com. Camps in acting, singing, dancing, oral interpretation, and technical theater. TAPS-Theatre Artist Performance School: (Ages 6-12) Enrichment Activities Program held May 21- June 11, $310 Registration Cost CAMP 3T-Teaching Through Theatre: (Ages 13-17) Residential program in performance for teenagers held June 19-25, $360 Registration Cost TTI-Technical Theatre Initiative: (Ages 15-18) Practical training in the technical arts held June 6-11 & June 19-25; $200/Five hours daily GIFTED-Giving Individual Freedom to Express Diversity: (Ages 13-21) A performance program for individuals with special needs held; (Tues.-Weds.-Thurs.) June 5-15, $260 Registration Cost ARPAC-Adult Repertory Performing Arts Camp (19 and Up) A residential program for aspiring artists and educators held July 8-10, $310 Registration Cost All applications require a $50 non-refundable deposit to be applied towards the camp fee. • Barb’s Summer Art Camp 1923 Mulberry Street; (334) 269.2272 or 334-546-2233 3 day ART CAMPS with Barb Grimes for 5 and up...$40 a day or $120 for week; Tues, Wed & Thurs... 1 pm - 3:15 pm. Multi media workshops...painting, collage, texture, pen & ink, watercolor, drawing etc. Session 1 – June 14-16; Session 2 - June 21-23; Session 3 - June 28-30; Session 4 - July 12-14; Session 5 - July 19-21; Session 6 - July 26-28; Session 7 – Aug. 2-4 Art with Barb at Nancy’s Ice: Sturbridge Shopping Center, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. & Thursdays at 10 a.m. $15 for each class plus free ice treat. Class days: June 14 & 16, June 21 & 23, June 28 & 30, July 12 & 14, July 19 & 21, July 26 & 28 and Aug. 2 & 4 Two Day Art Camps at Nancy’s Ice: $15 for each class or $25 for two classes plus free ice treats! Wed, June 1, Porcupine – 10 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.; Thursday, June 2, Blue Crabs – 10 a.m. or 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday, July 6, Tweetie Birds – 10 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.; Thursday, July 7, Grasshopper – 11 a.m. or 6:30 p.m. Call Barb Grimes at (334) 269.2272 or Text 5462233 to save a spot. Please visit our website at www. barbsonmulberry.com or www.facebook.com/barbsonmulberry.com.
• Alabama Shakespeare Festival Theatre Camps (ad on page 45)
• Behind the Curtain: Technical Theatre Camp (grades 9-12) July 25-29, 9:00am - 4:00 p.m. Fee: $300 . When directors and actors need sets, lights, sound and costumes so they can look good, whom do they turn to? You! Learn from the best master theatre artists and designers in the business! For more information contact Greta Lambert at the ASF Education Department at (334) 271.5393 or glambert@asf.net. • Broadway South Musical Theatre Camp (grades 9-12) July 25-29 , 9:00am - 4:00 p.m. Fee: $300. If you’re a triple threat just waiting to happen-you need to come to camp! Sing, dance and
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act side by side with real live professional actors on the ASF stage. At the end of the week they might be asking you for your autograph! For info contact Greta Lambert at the ASF Education Department at (334) 271.5393 or glambert@asf.net. • Camp Shakespeare (grades 4-6) July 11-15 or July 18-22, 8:30am - 4:00 p.m. Fee: $300. Work with real New York based actors as you learn to act, move and cross swords like the pros. You don’t know what cool is until you can sound like a Shakespearean actor! For information contact Greta Lambert at (334) 271.5393 or glambert@asf.net. • Camp Shakespeare Extreme is (grades 7-12) June 20-24 or June 27-July 1, 9:00am - 4:00 p.m. Fee: $300. It’s Camp Shakespeare but - extreme. Dig deeper into your character, move effortlessly around the stage, learn to project and enunciate! Don’t know what enunciate means? You will when everyone is hanging on every word during your monologue. For information contact Greta Lambert at (334) 271.5393 or glambert@asf.net. • Camp Shakespeare Junior is (grades 5-8) July 5-8 or June 27-July 1, 9:00amnoon or 1-4 p.m. Fee: $125. An introduction to theatre for your 5 to 8 year old, engaging them with dramatic play and theatre games. A great preparation for Camp Shakespeare! For information contact Greta Lambert at (334) 271.5393 or glambert@asf.net. • Jasmine Hill Art Studio 110 Company Street, Wetumpka 334-300-6793, Stephanie Harrison Art classes offered to ages 4 to 104. We explore all mediums: oil, acrylics, water color, sketching. $50 per
month, includes supplies except canvases. We also do birthday paint parties for $14 per child. Summer Art Camp is June 1-3 from 10a-2p. Cost for camp is $90, includes all supplies and a snack. Space limited so call/email soon! Check us out on Facebook for more details about camps and classes. https:// www.facebook.com/JaSmInE-HiLl-ArT-GaLlErY249811788416/?fref=ts. • McBrien Design Art Studio (334) 361-2238 or (334) 546-2771 Frances McBrien Email: mcbriendesign@charter.net SUPER FUN ART CAMPS! Morning and afternoon sessions plus 3, and 5 day camps to choose from. Each session features different themes, art activities, and techniques, so be sure to sign up for more than one session. (Ages 6-17) Detailed Camp Information to be posted in May on the website. Website: www. mcbriendesign.com
• Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (ad on page 99)
June 20-24, July 11-15, July 25-29 Week-long. Half-day or All day (ages 6 to 13) These unique full-filled camps offer small group instruction (10 students to 1 teacher ratio; maximum of 20 students) in drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking, and sculpture. Students also view and learn about famous works of art in a Museum setting. Each week a variety of art media and techniques are explored, such as drawing with pastels, charcoal, pen and ink, colored pencils, and markers; painting with watercolors,
tempera, and acrylics; sculpting with clay and mixed media; and creating relief prints. Different themes, art projects, and techniques are offered each week, with a special student exhibition and reception for family members at the end of camp each Friday. Camp fee includes snacks and all art materials. The camps are also designed for working parents, as extended hours are offered. Camps are limited to 20 students and fill up quickly, so sign up today! Full day students MUST bring their own lunch. For more information, call the MMFA at (334) 240.4333 or visit the website at www.mmfa.org. • Montgomery Music Project Summer Camp 2416 West Cloverdale Park Montgomery; 334-377-2018 www.montgomerymusicproject.org noemi@montgomerymusicproject.org Montgomery Music Project (MMP) offers an enriching two-week day camp full of engaging music activities and classes for children of a variety of ages and abilities. Daily orchestra lessons are supplemented with group drumming, musicianship class, singing and more. The 2016 MMP Summer Camp will take place July 11-22, Monday – Friday from 10:00 – 3:00pm with optional drop-in service before and after class. All activities take place at First United Methodist Church, 2416 West Cloverdale Park. Registration is open from March 1st-May15th. Registration forms can be found at www. montgomerymusicproject.org. • Prattville’s Performing and Visual Arts Camp for Kids *MUSIC *ART *DANCE *DRAMA; JUNE 25-29. Features art work and musical theatre production. Includes
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one hour of instruction of each of music, art, dance & drama every day. 9 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. For more information call (334) 361.0554 • P’zazz Art Studio 354.1975, 138 W. Main St. Downtown Prattville Mini Monet Summer Camp: June 1-3 or July 5-7 $70; Ages 4 and 5 years olds We will work with watercolor, acrylic paint, mixed media, printmaking, and more! “Just for Boys” Art Camp: June 7-9 $85; Boys are welcome to any and all of our classes and camps BUT in this camp we will do tons of stuff boys are sure to love! P’zazzy Zazz Camp: June 14-16 or July 19-21 $85; Ages 6-12. Our P’zazzy Zazz camp is our camp where we do all the fun and funky art stuff. Ultimate P’zazz Camp-5 days: June 20-24 $125; Ages 6-12. This camp is where we do it ALL! Drawing, Pastels, and Watercolor Camp: July 5-7 $75; Ages 9-13, This camp is sure to impress! Students will strengthen their drawing skills in addition to leaning how to apply color with chalk pastels and watercolor. Bible Journaling for Teens!: July 12-14 $50; Ages 12-17. Bible Journaling is a new trend that combines studying scripture with artistic expression. We are so excited to be able to offer this camp for teenagers ages 12-17. Performing and Visual Camp: July 25-29 $150; Ages 6-12; Do you have a super creative child who loves not only to create art but also to sing, dance, and perform. We partner with a local dance studio for this camp. Please call for days and times. To register call Kasey at (334) 354.1975 or kaseyau@gmail.com or visit us online www.pzazzart.com.
• Trinity Art Camp (ad on page 25)
Contact Becky Lee at blee@trinitywildcats.com June 21,22,23 ; 8 a.m.– 10 a.m. Incoming 1st – 3rd grades; 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m, Incoming 4th-5th graders; July 26,27,28; 8 a.m. 1st-3rd grades, 10:30-12:30 p.m. Incoming 4th & 5th grades Note: If one class should cancel or not fill up I will have one class per day from 9:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. Classes are limited to 10 students per class.
• Weekend Warrior (ad on page 45)
(grades 7-12) July 22, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. and July 23, 10:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. Fee: $150. Learn the skills of stage combat! Your personal fight master will teach you the secrets of hand to hand combat techniques as well as the use of various weapons. For information contact Greta Lambert at the ASF Education Department at (334) 271.5393 or glambert@asf.net. • Wetumpka Depot Players Workshop Are you looking for summer activities for your budding young artist? Join the Wetumpka Depot Players for our annual summer youth program June 6-10, with performances June 10 at 5pm. The week long program, led by theatre artists, will include opportunities for children and youth of all ages. We are enrolling students who are entering 2nd grade though 8th grade. Sessions are $150 (T shirt included) per week and program space is available on a first come first served basis. Class size is limited to 30. Camp times are June 6-9 at 10am-3pm and June 10 10am-7pm. For more information email kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com for forms or questions. Camp enrollment forms and payment options will also be available online at wetumpkadepot.com later this week or by emailing kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com. Montgomery Parents I May 2016
Bowling • BAMA Lanes 272.5423, 3020 Atlanta Highway EAT ‘n’ BOWL, while lane availability lasts, until 8 p.m. daily. (Includes 3 games, shoe rental, and meal). Prices vary upon day and time. • BAMA Lanes in Prattville 358.8600, 1734 East Main Street EAT ‘n’ BOWL, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday (includes 2 games, shoe rental, and meal) Prices and times vary upon day. • Brunswick Zone 819.7171, 1661 Eastern Blvd. Special summer deals. Please call for more information and weekend pricing. Please visit our website at www. bowlbrunswick.com
Dance/Gymnastics/Cheer • Alabama Dance Theatre (ad on page 79)
1018 Madison Avenue, 241.2590 The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering summer classes in classes in classical ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), pointe and variations, pas de deux, composition, modern, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, tap and “Back to Dance” Session I is :May 31-June 16 and Session II is June 27-July 14. There will also be a “Tutus and Tiaras” camp for ages 3-8 on June 20-24. The Alabama Dance Theatre Summer Seminar for intermediate and advanced dancers will be held July 18-29. Classes will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, home of the Alabama Dance Theatre located at 1018 Madison Avenue. For more information please call 334-241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com. • Alabama River Region Ballet (334) 356-5460; riverregionballet@gmail.com www.riverregionballet.com, Dates to be announced Children’s Fairytale Ballet Camp: (ages 3-5, T/Th, 9 am to 12 pm and ages 6-8, MWF, 9 am to 12 pm) Includes ballet class and ballet oriented movies and crafts relating to classical storybook ballets. Light snack included. Summer Dance Intensive: for ages 8-11. (ages 8-9, T/Th, 9am to 12pm and ages 10-11, MWF, 9am to 12pm). Summer Intensive for ages 12-18. 9am-3pm, M-F. Classes offered in Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, & Modern. • Armory Athletics 1018 Madison Avenue, 241.2789 Michelle Anderson, Director The Armory Gymnastics Center is the largest gymnastics center in the area. We offer boys and girls recreational and competitive gymnastics and cheer, adult gymnastics/fit camp and tumbling. Please call for our summer scheduling or visit us on Facebook at Armory Athletics.
• Centre’ for Performing Arts (ad on page 83)
Prattville, AL. Dance Classes: Please call for dates, Creative Movement, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary and Gymnastics. Ages 2 and up. Competition team auditions in the month of July. Diva Dance Camp (ages 5-12); TBA; Call 491.1192 or www.centreforperformingarts.com.
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• C.J.’S Dance Factory (home of the Prattville Ballet) (334) 467.8603; Camp Dates: June 23-July 7 Little Princess Ballerina Camp: Tutus, Tiaras and Princess Activities, 2 p.m. on Thursdays. Power Tumble Gymnastics Camp: 5:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Ballet Technique, Thursdays at 6:30 • Dance Generation 65 Ashburton Dr.; 395.4300 Tap, ballet, jazz, baton, lyrical and gymnastics. Ages 3-adult, Beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Cost depending on class. Call for more information. www.dancegenerationstudio.com • Lisa’s Dance Dimensions 2981 Main St., Millbrook, 285.5515 or 221.4622 Please visit our website for our Summer classes being offered. Registration began in April. You can register at the Gymnastics location on Monday evenings 6:30-8 p.m. and Thursdays 5-6 p.m. Classes begin the first week of June. www.lisasdancedimensions.com • Mann Dance Studio 422 Pratt St., Prattville, 365.5154 Classes begin June 7 and will run through July. We will be offering : Tuesday’s from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. pre-school ages 2 1/2 year olds to 5 year olds. These classes will be divided according to age. This is a combination class which includes ballet, tap and gymnastics. Tuesdays from 6:00-7:00, 1st graders and up. These classes will be divided according to age. This also is a combination class including; Ballet, gymnastics and jazz/hip-hop. Please call 365-5154 to enroll. www.manndancestudio.net • Majorette, Baton, and Dance Studio of Prattville Every week from June 1- August 1, Ages 3-18 Students will learn baton, dance team, ribbon team, rifle twirling, and flags in a Christian learning environment. Participate in parades and recitals. Space limited. Registration runs now- until beginning of June. Call Ashton Yarboro 868- 4245 or 361.0563 for more information or to register. • Montgomery Ballet 2101 Eastern Blvd. Suite 223, 409.0522. Our camp programs are available in one, two, or three-week packages. The more weeks you register for the more you save! We offer early and late pick up at a fee for you convenience. Montgomery Ballet Fairytale Camp (Ages 3-5) The Montgomery Ballet’s Fairytale Camp focuses on the formation and development of young bodies to begin to learn the basics of ballet. One week: $125 per week; Two weeks $230 for both weeks ($115 per week); Three weeks: $300 for all three weeks ($100 per week) Montgomery Ballet Dance Into Summer (Ages 6+) The Montgomery Ballet’s Dance Into Summer Program encourages campers to get moving and have fun with dance! Campers will be introduced to classical ballet and other dance forms including Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, and Modern. Camp runs 9 am -4 pm Monday-Friday. One week: $225 per week, Two weeks $400 for both weeks ($200 per week), Three weeks: $525 for all three weeks ($175 per week) Performance Opportunity: At the end of our camp program, each group of campers will perform the choreography they learned during summer camp! You must attend the last two weeks of camp to participate in the showcase.Please call 409.0522 for information or visit www.montgomeryballet.org.
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• Next Dimensions Gymnastics 101 Penser Blvd., Millbrook, 285.5515 or 221.4622 Please visit our website for our Summer classes being offered. Registration began in April. You can register at the Gymnastics location on Monday evenings 6:30-8 p.m. and Thursdays 5-6 p.m. Classes begin the first week of June. www.lisasdancedimensions.com • Prattville’s Performing and Visual Arts Camp *MUSIC *ART *DANCE *DRAMA; June 25-29 “ON BROADWAY” features art work and musical theatre production. Includes one hour of instruction of each of music, art, dance & drama every day. 9 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. For more information call (334) 361.0554.
• Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection (ad on page 52)
3370 Harrison Rd., 277.1098; Summer camp dates: June 13-17 and June 27 – July 1 and July 11-15. from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.(4-12 years). $150 a week. Including all styles of dance, modeling & manners, fashion shows, talent show, arts & crafts, water play and mini manicures! Summer dance classes for all ages beginning June 1 in Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Baton and Tumbling. Call 277.1098 for more info or check our website and Facebook page. www. tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.com • United Gymstars & Cheer Camp Call 284.2244; 10 week Summer Camp, Weekly themed activities, gymnastics, trampoline, rope climbing, crafts and more. Beginning first week in June through beginning of August; Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 4 and up. Half Day offered for 3 and 4 year olds. Call for rates.
Day Camps • AUM Youth Summer Programs Brittany, 244.3804 Dates: 6/6-10, 6/20-24, 6/15-19, 7/25-29, One week sessions. Five week sessions June 13 – July 21 Ages: Gr. K-5 - 12th. AUM’s summer Youth College offers over 150 classes for grades K-12 grade taught by certified teachers. Parents/students can pick and choose individual classes to meet their needs and schedules. Classes range from art, science, math, reading and more! Parent Information Session is Thursday, February 25 from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. at AUM’s Center for Lifelong Learning located at 75 Techna Center Drive. Open House is FREE and a great way to see what all AUM offers, meet our instructors, receive detailed information and discount on our programs. Call 244.3804 or visit www.aum.edu/coned for more information.
• Alabama State University (ad on page 41)
(334) 229.4686 or (334) 229.4317 SKYCAP/IMSET 2016 Session 1: June 6-24; Session 2: July 11-29 Grades 1-12; Half and full-day programs. Academics, computers, arts and fitness. A variety of courses to expand and peak your child’s imagination, sharpen academic skills and introduce them to physical fitness activities.
• Alabama Wildlife Federation (ad on page 43)
3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, 285.4550 Expedition Lanark Outdoor Day Camp June 6th-August 5th. Expedition Lanark is a full day summer camp that provides hands-on, outdoor educational activities that teach natural resource stewardship, develop leadership skills, build character and open your child’s mind to outdoor adventures and fun. From
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Tadpoles to Trail Blazers, Counselors in Training, High Adventure, Gross Out Camp and so much more, we have something for your child (ages 5-15) to explore this summer! Extended Care is available for an additional fee. Sign up for the fun now at www.alabamawildife.org • Camp Grandview — YMCA (334) 290.9622; Dates: May 26 - August 12 Length: Weekly basis; (Ages 5 to 15) 4700 Camp Grandview Road, Millbrook Located on 190-wooded acres, YMCA Camp Grandview includes two beautiful lakes, a waterpark, horse barn, athletic fields, hiking trails, mud pits, disc golf, archery, riflery, Re Hall, and historic lodge. Transportation is available from Montgomery at no extra cost. www.ymcamontgomery.org
• Camp Invention (ad on page 81))
Bear Exploration Center, Dates: 5/31 to 6/3 from 8:00 to 4:00; Cost: $225. A day at the Camp Invention program is packed with hands-on activities, brainstorming, experimentation, and unbelievable action! Please visit www.invent.org or email us at campinvention@ invent.org. • Camp Sunshine for Boys 262.2697; July 18-23; Boys Age: 6-10. Other: Outreach program for less advantaged youth with a variety of outdoor activities. No cost but invitation only camp; may call for application. • Camp Tukabatchee (800) 977.2688 Day and resident camps; Ages: By scout rank. Week 1: June 5-11, Week 2: June 12-18, Week 3: June 19-25; Other: Boy Scout Camp. Emphasizing outdoor skills and leadership development. Weeklong experience with swimming, hiking, canoeing and other outdoor skills. www.camptuk.org or www.tukabatcheebsa.org
• Green Gate School (ad on page 59)
3265 McGehee Rd.; Contact Yvonna Richardson, 281.3300; Ages 12 months-12 years Monday- Friday, flexible rates and hours, 7 am – 6 pm At Green Gate, we believe learning isn’t put on hold for the two and a half months of summer. Our goal is to both entertain and educate. We promise you will not hear your child say “I am bored at camp!” or “We do the same stuff every day!” Students will skate, bowl and swim along with fun times in our vintage game room exploring, playing foosball, air hockey, ping-pong, and other activities.
• Gross Out Camp Takes Science Outdoors (ad on page 43)
Alabama Nature Center (Lanark), Millbrook August 1-5; Ages 6-9; Cost: $200 It’s science but please don’t tell the kids! At awardwinning Gross Out Camp at Lanark, kids learned in their native habitat, woods and creek beds, discovering nature through hands-on biology. The camp combines science experiments, exploring, journaling, and nature-inspired arts and crafts to address a variety of learning styles. For more information, contact Verna Gates, executive director, at (205) 540-6642 or go to www.freshairfamily. org or www.GrossOutCamp.org Montgomery Parents I May 2016
• Montgomery Zoo 240.4900 Dates: half days for 5-6 yr. old, 7/18-22, 7/25-29; half day for 7-8 yr. olds, 6/27-7/1, full day 7-8 yr. old 7/11-15; half day for 9-10 yr. old, 6/13-17 full day for 9-10 yr. old, 6/20-24; full day for 11-12 yr. old, 6/6-10. Ages 5 - 12 (each week is for specific ages). Cost: Non- members; $180 for full day, $140 half day. Members; $162 for full day and $126 for half day. Full day includes lunch and two snacks; one snack for half-day. See daily live animal presentations; get up close and personal with some of the Educational animals at the Montgomery Zoo; enjoy scavenger hunts; craft times; classroom time; playtime, splash time and games at our playground; rides on our horse trail rides, pedal boats, and sky lift; participate in animal encounters with the giraffes, river otters, deer and parakeets; see behind the scene tours and visits with our zookeepers and other staff members. • Prattville Parks & Recreation Summer Youth Program Weekly Field Trips, Games, Crafts and Swimming Begins May 31 until the Friday before school starts, 7a.m. until 6 p.m.; Ages 5 going into K-6th grade. Registration begins April 1st at the Doster Center. Parent Orientation Date: May 23 Registration Fee – Non-refundable $75 registration per child; $75/week . Call 361.3640. • The Shoppes at Eastchase “Fashion Camp” The premier destination for girls who have a passion for fashion and who want to feel confident and comfortable. Our professional stylist, Laura Handey of Centsibly Southern Chic, will share secrets of mastering makeup, the art of accessorizing, the ins-and-outs of entertaining and how to develop a personal style all your own. It’s like fashion week in Paris, a Hollywood makeover and an elegant dinner party all rolled into one. And it’s all at The Shoppes at EastChase. The one day camps are offered during June and July. COST: $75/ Child During Early Registration in April. $75/Child after Early Registration. Day includes lunch, a $25 gift card to The Shoppes at EastChase, swag gift bag and Fashion Camp t-shirt. TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Ages 5 – 8: June 13, 14, 20, 21 July 11, 12, 18, 19 Ages 9 – 11: June 15, 16, 22, 23 July 13, 14, 20, 21 Ages 10 – 12: June 17, 24 July 14, 22. Register online at theshoppesateastchase. com beginning in April. For more information about Fashion Camp, contact Suzanna Wasserman, Marketing Manger, at 334.279.6046. • YMCA Cleveland Branch Dates: May 31 until August 12 (Ages 3 to 12) 1201 Rosa L. Parks Ave., Montgomery (334) 265.0566 The YMCA Cultural Arts Center at the Cleveland Avenue YMCA offers youth specialty camps featuring music and dance. Participants will have opportunities to learn modern dance, jazz, tap, and piano with professional instruction in a first class dance studio and music laboratory. • YMCA East Branch Dates: May 31 until August 12 (Ages 3 to 12) 3407 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery (334) 272.3390 The YMCA Cultural Arts Center at the Cleveland Avenue YMCA offers youth specialty camps featuring music and dance. Participants will have opportunities to learn modern dance, jazz, tap, and piano with professional instruction in a first class dance studio and music laboratory.
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• YMCA Goodtimes Dates: May 31 until August 12 (Ages 5 to 14) 2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery (334) 279-8833 This is the premier summer facility with a teaching pool, indoor gym, inflatables, and a water park. In addition, the center features a cooperative reading program and a premier computer lab to help combat summer learning loss. Academic enrichment classes taught by a certified teacher are programmed into your child’s day along with recreational swim at the water park. • YMCA Junior High Teen Leadership Call 279.8666; Dates: May 31 until August 12 A new program designed to teach teens leadership skills. Teens will be involved in enrichment activities for the younger campers, service projects, fun excursions, a camp day with other YMCA Leadership Leagues and a trip to North Carolina to participate in the Junior High Christian Values Conference. • YMCA Kershaw 2225 West Fairveiw Ave.;(334) 265.1433, Summer Camp Dates: May 31 until Aug. 12; Ages 5 – 15. Call for cost and registration details. • YMCA Prattville Smith Branch, 365.8852 East Bradford Branch, 358.9622 Main Day Camp, girls and boys ages 5-12. An outdoor program. Registration Date April 19 at 8 a.m. Bradford East YMCA. Begins May 31– in August. Mon. - Fri. Before and after care available at no extra charge. Must be picked up by 5:45. For members only. For more information please call Betty Estes, 358.1446. • Daniel Pratt Camp Daniel Pratt School. Dates and ages the same as above. For members and non-members. Registration Date April 19th at 8 a.m. Bradford East YMCA. Begins May 31 –August school starts. Mon. - Fri. • Pine Level Summer Camp Pine Level School. Dates and ages the same as above. For members and non-members. Registration Date is April 19th at 8 a.m. at the Bradford East YMCA. Begins May 31 – August. Mon. - Fri. • Cheer Camp Grades 1-12, boys and girls; June 1-3 and July 6-8; Times 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. or Gymnastics and Cheer camp from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.; Please call for pricing. Call Bambi at 365-8852 for more information. Discount for multiple sign ups. • Gymnastics Camp June 1-3 and July 6-8, Ages 6-18; Times 9 a.m. until noon or both Gymnastic and Cheer from 9 a.m. until 4; Please call for pricing. Includes t-shirt and camp refreshments. Call Bambi at 365.8852. If you choose to do both a discount will be offered. • East Bradford Branch – 358-9622 Sport Camps, Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. Girls basketball- May 31-June 3, Tues.-Friday Soccer Camp, July 11-14 Golf Camp-July 6-8, Wednesday-Friday Tennis Camp-June 20-23 Boys basketball, May 31-June 3, Tues.-Friday Fishing Camp-July 25-28 Wrestling Camp-June 13-16 Girls Volleyball, June 6-9 Please call for pricing. Pricing is based on how many camps signed up for. Discounts are given for multiple camps and for multiple children in family. 2-22 Camp is a program for rising seventh thru ninth graders. Members ONLY. Registration is the beginning of March. The camp will cover character development, life skills, job skills, service learning and have activities such as board games, gym games, community service
www.montgomeryparents.com
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and field trips. Begins 1st day of school being out. Call Jeffery at 358-9622 for more information. • YMCA Southeast Branch Summer Camp Dates: May 31-Aug.; Ages 5 – 15 3455 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery (334) 262-6411 The Southeast YMCA, a family facility, offers youth and adult fitness, aerobics, youth sports, before and after school childcare, summertime aquatic programs and much more. One of the greatest assets is the two gymnasiums, which provide open goals for working on jump shots or a great open space for fun activities on rainy days. • YMCA Wetumpka Day camp, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. May 31 until beginning of school in August. (Ages 5 to 13) 200 Red Eagle Road, Wetumpka (334) 567-8282 A vital part of the community for over 40 years. It offers the opportunity to get involved with youth sports, preschool classes, after-school programs and more.
Alabama Dance Theatre Summer Dance Classes
May 31 - June 16 & June 27 - July 14 Age 3 to Professional Level Now Accepting Registrations
At The Armory Learning Arts Center
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**Vacation Bible Schools are held throughout the area. See River Region’s Journey magazine for a comprehensive listing.
Summer Seminar
**Boys & Girls Clubs of the River Region, 832.4288 Chisholm, 2612 Lower Wetumpka, 265.2469 West End, 220 Crenshaw St, 263.3371 Wetumpka, 399 North Alabama Street, 478.4904 Focus on 5 core program areas: Education, Arts, Sports & Recreation, Health & Life Skills and Citizenship Leadership Development. Cost: $5 per child per year. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Please call for school term schedule. www.Bgcmala.org
with shawn Black, Marianna tcherkassky and Wendy White sasser
**Community Centers have various programs including arts & crafts, field trips and sports for children during the summer. Call your local Community Center for more information.
JuLy 18 - August 1
241-2590
1018 Madison Avenue www.alabamadancetheatre.com Photo by Nick Frontiero Productions
Day Trips • Callaway Gardens US Hwy 18, Pine Mountain, GA; (706) 663.2281; 1-800-Callaway; www.callawaygardens.com. Summer hours- 9:00 am-6:00 pm daily. Callaway Gardens is a great location for family vacations in Georgia. Your family will love hiking in our gardens, swimming in Robin Lake, exploring the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, golf, spa and more. Summer Family Adventure is a four- to seven-night Summer vacation that connects your loved ones and offers countless options for fun in a beautiful natural environment. Callaway Gardens partners with the Florida State University Flying High Circus, whose members lead guests ages 3-17 in a variety of exciting day-camp activities. Adults have their own eclectic lineup of offerings, and late afternoons and evenings reunite families to enjoy beach parties and competitions, bingo and trivia games, educational shows and outings, and much more. Summer Family Adventure runs for nine weeks with arrivals June 4-July 23, with options for four, five, six and seven nights. Sample activities available for children and adults include. (Activities vary based on age groups). Circus skills including acrobats, juggling and more, teen activities, tennis clinics, water skiing & tubing, camp crafts, nature and wildlife adventures, fishing, archery, beach fun, cookouts, and more! • Chewacla State Park 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy. Auburn; 887.5621 www.alapark.com/Chewacla/ 696 scenic acres are a delightful pause from nearby interstate traffic. Facilities include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playgrounds, hiking trails, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, and newly renovated cabins.
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• Coosa River Adventures 415 Company Street, Wetumpka 514.0279. Available all days (weather permitting). Scheduling is required. Cost is $59 per two-person canoe, $49 per sit-on-top, two person kayak and $29 per sit-on-top, one-person kayak. Stand-up paddleboards rental is $39. Cost includes transportation to the launch site, paddles and life jackets. Shuttle rate for those owning their own equipment is $12 per kayak or canoe. Try out tote-n-float Program. Simply tote one of our boats and float your favorite waters. Canoes are $59 a day. add tax to prices listed. Please visit us on the web at www. coosariveradventures.com. Call for appointment and scheduling. • DeSoto State Park 13883 County Road 89, Fort Payne, AL; (256) 845.0051; www.alapark. com/DeSotoResort; Nestled atop beautiful scenic Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, this 3,502-acre park provides Mountain Chalets, Log & Rustic Cabins, Motel Rooms, Meeting Rooms, and also has both Improved & Primitive campgrounds. Also features a picnic area with playground, Olympicsize swimming pool, nature center with interpretive programs and live animals, & over 19 miles of hiking & mountain biking trails. • Georgia Aquarium 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA; (404) 581.4000; www.georgiaaquarium.org With more than eight million gallons of fresh and marine water and more aquatic life than found in any other aquarium, you are sure to see things you’ve never seen before! Please check our website for rates and specials. Annual, premium, combo, and group rates available • Horseshoe Bend Military Park 11288 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Daviston, AL; (256) 234.7111; Monday-Sunday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Tour the free museum and view the 22 minute film, “The Battle of Horseshoe Bend”. Then enjoy hiking the trails, a picnic, canoe the Tallapoosa River, and go fishing. Children (6 to 12 years old) with families are encouraged to participate in the Junior Ranger Program. Program booklets are available free at the Visitor Center. Children completing the required activities will be awarded a Certificate and Junior Ranger Badge. The program must be completed while in the Park and is not available for groups. • Imagine It! Children’s Hands on Museum 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta, GA; (404) 659.KIDS [5437] Atlanta’s only children’s museum, is the perfect place for children age eight and under and their families to learn and explore together in a safe and fun hands-on environment. Please visit us at www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org. • McWane Science Center 200 19th Street North, Birmingham (205) 714.8300; www.mcwane.org Rates range $8.00-$18.00; Children under 2 Free; Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am6:00 pm, Sunday 12:00-6:00 pm Montgomery Parents I May 2016
• Stone Mountain U.S. Highway 78 East, Exit 8, Stone Mountain, GA; 1- 800-401-2407; www.stonemountainpark.com; Toddlers 2 and under Free, Discounts and annual passes available; Summer at the Rock! June 11 – July 31; 10:30 am -8:00 pm. Lots of fun and activities including laser shows, hiking, musical entertainment, kids’ foam pit, Geyser Towers, Sky Hike, Camp Highland Outpost, Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, The Great Barn, Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf, the Antebellum Plantation & Farmyard, Ride the Ducks, Lasershow, Adventure Tales, Waterworks and Where’s that Bear. Please visit our website for tickets options and pricing. • Swayback Bridge Trail Hiking/Biking approximate 8-mile trail with arrows and 1/4-mile markers so you can turn back when you reach your limit. Or the looping nature of the trail allows for crossover at several points to shorten your trip. Trail has views of creek and the Swayback Bridge, which is part of the old Hwy. 231. No charge, but do accept donations to help maintain the trail. No motorized vehicles or horses allowed. Trailhead is on Jordan Dam Road in Elmore County. Art. http:// www.trailoflegends.org/ • Windcreek State Park 4325 Alabama Highway 128, Alexander City, AL; (256) 329.0845; www.alapark.com/WindCreek/ This park spans 1,445 acres along the shores of scenic Lake Martin, that is a 41,000-acre clear-water reservoir perfect for fishing, swimming and boating. Park facilities include the largest state-operated campground in the United States with 626 sites.
Horseback Riding • MANE’s Unified Summer Camp (ad on page 46)
Does your child love horses and want to ride this summer? Consider sending your child to MANE’s annual Unified Summer Camp. Though MANE’s focus is therapeutic riding, the unified summer camp allows riders with disabilities and able-bodied riders to learn about adaptive activities, acceptance and horses! The Unified Summer Camp program encourages the sport of riding and horsemanship in a safe setting for all children of the Tri-County Area. Now is the time to register. MANE’s Unified Summer Camp will be held the weeks of July 11-15, July 18-22, and July 25-29. Classes are conducted daily, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Each camper will participate in riding lessons, horsemanship skills lessons, snack/social time and horse related crafts. Each week concludes with a horse show so that all participants can show off their new skills to friends and family. Tuition is $250 per week per rider. Receive a $25 discount when you sign up multiple riders or multiple weeks. Riders must be between the ages of 4-15. Each week is limited to 12 riders and applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis. MANE
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must receive all mandatory paperwork and payment for a camper’s slot to be reserved. Deadline for application is June 24. Please contact Audrey Adamson at (334) 213.0909 for registration details. Please visit our website at www.maneweb.org for more information.
• Shade Tree Summer Horsemanship Day Camp (ad on page 77)
Shade Tree Riding Stables, Millbrook Summer sessions available. Sessions starting in June. Ages 8-14. Our day camp will introduce campers to the challenges and responsibilities of riding and caring for horses. Our program provides extensive riding, hands on learning and lesson time. Call 290.3727 or 546.3964 for dates and reservations.
History • Old Alabama Town 240.4500; www.oldalabamatown.com 301 Columbus Street, Montgomery Landmarks Foundation presents much more than a collection of 50 restored buildings in the heart of downtown Montgomery. Old Alabama Town is a tribute to our past, a magnificent setting where you step back in time. Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Libraries • Autauga Prattville Public Library 254 Doster Street, 365.3396, applkids@bellsouth.net Preregister at any Autauga Prattville Public Library Branch Today! The Summer Reading Program “Ready, Set, Read” is to encourage reading throughout the summer months. Children going into grades preschool6th grade are invited to participate. Registration begins May 1st. Keep off begins June 7 and the last week is the 10-16 of July. Please visit www.appl.info. • Millbrook Library 3650 Grandview Road, 285.6688 Summer Reading Program, “On Your Mark, Get Set, Read.” Ages 4-12; The Summer Reading Programs is to encourage reading though out the summer months and enjoy different adventures and travel to exciting places. Please call for dates and times. • Montgomery Library Check with local branches or check the library page in each month’s issue of Montgomery Parents for story time and video listings. Sign up for summer reading program. • Wetumpka Library 567.1308, 212 S. Main Street “On Your Mark, Get Set, Read”, summer program for grades 1 - 6, Tuesdays at 2 p.m. beginning in June 14July 26. Meeting at Wetumpka Civic Center. Registration starts in May. “Get in the Game, Read”, Summer program for grades 7-12. Thursdays beginning June 16-July 28 at 1 p.m. until… in the library.
Martial Arts • Docarmo’s Summer Karate Camp (ad on page15)
3179 Taylor Road; 220.5835 Seven 1-week Karate Camp Sessions from 8:30 until
www.montgomeryparents.com
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5:30 p.m. One in May, 3 camps in June, 3 camps in July, Monday-Friday. Summer Karate Sport Camp students participate in Taekwondo, Padded Weaponry, and Sports Martial Arts training. Emphasis on martial arts training is what makes us different from other summer camps…our program offers discipline, structure as well as FUN! Camp also includes lots of games, field trips that include swimming, pizza, roller skating, ice skating, movies, museums, parks and more! Not to mention arts in crafts, games, video games, reading time, board games, character development, and movies in house. Your child will have to pack a lunch every day as we do not prepare meals. Although we are a week-to-week program, we will also offer a special rate for those who can commit to the majority of the summer. Camp size is limited. Please visit us at www. trytkdfree.com. You can also visit us on Facebook under Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center. • Family Karate Center Carole Coker, 277.4911; 8159 Vaughn Road. Located next door to Jalapenos, Peppertree Shopping Center. Kids Karate camp for summer program offered every day. Ages 2 years old and up. The camp is free to all students at the Family Karate Center. Non-members get to try the Camp for one day free (any day they choose this summer). Please call for Camp rates for non-members. Discounted birthday Party for camp register. The camp will teach Stranger Danger Child Abduction Prevention and Awareness Programs, The Ask Mom First Program (Child Molestation Prevention), “I am not a target” Bully Busters program and tips to teach children about lures child abductors use. Also included in the Kids Karate Camp will be beginning and advanced karate skills and drills, relay races, Samurai Pool Noodle Challenge, Karate Freeze Tag, Ninja Dodge Frisbee, Power Ranger Relay Race, and many other fun games that make children test their coordination and balancing skills. The Family Karate Center is the ONLY karate center that offers a fully equipped fitness center for parents to use for FREE while children are in class. We have a separate camp that teaches 2-4 year olds. We specialize in teaching special needs students- autistic, Asperger’s Syndrome, Attention Deficit Disorder, ADHD, Down Syndrome etc…. Call today for registration and information. We are the only Montgomery school with a Master degree Instructor who specializes in special need children. A FREE gift for all new enrollments.
TRANSFORM YOUR CHILD’S SUMMER FROM ORDINARY TO EXTRAORDINARY!
Learn more at campinvention.org or by calling 800.968.4332. Save $15 when you register by May 10th and use promo code SPRING Bear Exploration Center | May 31 - June 3, 2016 In partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office
• Fleming’s Martial Arts Institute (ad on page 18)
4315 Atlanta Hwy, 277.5425 Please call for variety of programs and camps offered throughout the year. Children’s programs offered. Adult and teen programs offered. www.flemingsmartialarts. com Please call for more information. • Johnson Martial Arts Academy 2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J, 284.2344 Please call for more information about our Summer program and Summer Day Camp. Summer Special: Afternoon, $175 for 10 weeks Evening classes, Ages 3 to adults. Summer Day Camp: May 31-July 1, 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. July 11-August 5, 8:30 until 4 p.m. Early drop-off and late pick up available. Ages 6-16. Registration now open. Register by May 1 and pay $50 a week. (Late Registration will be $60 a week) Please call for more information and dates. Please visit us at www. johnsonsmartialartsacademy.com or visit our Facebook page under Johnsons Martial Arts Academy. • Montgomery Taekwondo Center located at the Wetumpka YMCA and at Prattville East. The Montgomery Taekwondo Center will teach classes all summer long on Tuesdays and Thursdays (and what a great activity for the whole family to enjoy together). Class begins at 6:30 until 7:30 at the Wetumpka branch
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Jun July age (33 info and Prattville at 6-6:45 p.m. for Lil’ Dragons and 6:457:45 p.m. for ages 7 to adult. Call Pam Smith at (334) 398.5968 for more information. • Camp NextGen at NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville All Camps are open to the community! 9am-5pm Cost $189 before May 1st, $199 beginning May 1st June 1-5: Hyper Camp - Kicks, Form and Tricking June 27-July 1: Hyper Camp - Kicks, Weapons and Tricking; July 18-22: Level Up Camp - Traditional Forms, Kicks, Self Defense, Sparring & Breaking. For more information contact Todd Newsom at (334) 590-3759 or todd@nextgenmartialarts.com; www.nextgenmartialarts.com • Tiger Park Taekwondo 3125 Bell Road, Montgomery, (previously Chung’s) (334) 277.2627; Classes for everyone Ages 3 to adult. 3 weeks of lessons plus uniform for $55.00. • Tiger-Rock Taekwondo Academy 2750 Bell Road, 244.1465, Find Your Focus through traditional Taekwondo. Please call for more information regarding Summer Programs. Please visit us at http://ita187.itaonline.com/
Recreation • Doster Center 424 South Northington Street, Prattville, 361.3640 Summer Youth Camp, grades K - 6th, Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Swim lessons and swim team (enrollment limited). • YMCA Branches Various activities including swimming. Call your local branch for more information. East YMCA, 3407 Pelzer Ave., 272.3390 Southeast YMCA, 3455 Carter Hill Rd.,262-6411 Kershaw YMCA, 2225 W. Fairview Ave., 265.1433 Bell Road YMCA, 2435 Bell Rd., 271-4343 Cleveland Avenue YMCA, 1201 Rosa Parks, 265.0566 Camp Grandview, 4700 Grandview Rd., Millbrook, 285.5381. Prattville YMCA, 600 Main Street, 365.8852 Wetumpka YMCA, Red Eagle Drive, 567.8282 • YMCA Goodtimes Center 279.8666, 2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery. The YMCA Goodtimes program is designed to give our participants an active way to enjoy the summer, with daily devotions, swim lessons, a water park pool, organized indoor and outdoor games and creative activities. Ages 5 yrs. - 11 yrs. Non- members $120 and Members $85 and The Teen Leadership League for ages 12 yrs. - 14 yrs. $120 non-members; $95 members; $50 non-refundable registration fee for non-member and members. Non-refundable registration fees as above.
Skating • Eastdale Ice Rink/ K Lynn’s Skating School (ad on page 30)
Eastdale Mall, 272.7225. Private lessons available. Call KLynn’s Skating School after 5 p.m. for lesson rates and schedules. • Looney’s Skating Rink 3541 McGehee Rd., 281.1032 Wide variety of summer skate programs available Montgomery Parents I May 2016
during the day and evening. Something for everyone! Prices vary due to day and event. Please visit us on Facebook or call for more information. • River Skate Park A skateboard, rollerblade, bike and scooter park. Membership is sold in seasonal passes. Protective gear is required. If you don’t have your own helmet, etc., you may rent them. Please visit www.funinmontgomery.com for hours and rates or call 240.4561 for details. • Skate Zone 2000 LLC 88 Red Eagle Pkwy, Wetumpka, 567.4434. Please call for Summer hours and rates.
Sports Clinics • AUM Soccer I.D. Camp June 4 and 5; AUM Soccer Complex The camp is for boys, ages 15 and older are welcome and will cost 100 dollars per camper. For more information, inlcuding a camp participation breakdown, visit wulfkochsocceracademy.com or call 244.3617. • Faulkner Sports Camps Call Debbie Reynolds or Brent Barker at 386.7148. Ages 6 – 17 Hal Wynn, 386.7285, softball camp; Dates TBA Patrick McCarthy, 386.7980, baseball; Dates: Youth Camp (ages 5-11), June 13-17; Youth Camp (ages 12-17), June 20-24 Scott Sanderson, 386.7159, basketball camp; Session I: Ages 5-18 (broken down into 3 age brackets), June 13-17; Session II: Ages 5-18 (broken down into 3 age brackets) Leslie Pierce, 386.7162, Girls soccer camp; TBA Tori Bartels, 386.7149, Volleyball Camp; Dates TBA Charlie Boren, 386.7671, Football Camp; Dates TBA Kyle Beard, 386.7162, Men’s soccer; Dates TBA Travis Lauterbach, 386.7208, Golf; Dates TBA Reed Sutton, 386.7509, Women’s Basketball; Session I: Lady Eagle Future Stars (ages 6-10), June 4; Session II: Lady Eagle Basic Training (ages 10-18), June 6-9; Session III: Basketball University (ages 12-18), June 10-11. Please visit our website at www.faulkner.edu
• Saint James Sports Camps (ad on page 1)
Saint James School will continue its summer tradition of providing a variety of sports and cheerleader camps for young people. Printed information will be available soon and will include cost, age groups and other pertinent information. Call Jerry Browning, athletic director, or the individual coaches at 277.8033, ext. 145. Keith Luckey, Baseball Camp; TBA Kellye Bowen, Volleyball Camp; TBA Amy Brown, Cheer Camp; TBA Craig Duncan, Wrestling; TBA Katie Barton, Girls Basketball; TBA Nigel Card , Boys Basketball; TBA Jimmy Perry, Football; TBA Thomas Render, Boys Soccer, TBA Charlie Brightwell, Girls Soccer, TBA
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• Young Meadows Sports Camp 5780 Vaughn Road, (334) 244.1385 Sports Camp is our Vacation Bible School held June 6-19 from 9 a.m. until noon for children ages K5 through 6th grade. Older youth and adults serve as volunteers in various areas -- guides, leaders, teachers, snacks, and a many other areas leading up to Sports Camp and following up with those children and their families who attend. Activities include sports activities, bible studies, snacks and fun! Sports Camp encourages participation from children in the community and the greater neighborhood area as well as members and their friends and relatives. For information or to volunteer, call at 312-1732
Baseball • Huntingdon College Baseball Camp Call DJ Conville for costs, 833.4501 Showcase Skills Camp: May 21 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Fundamentals Camp: May 31-June 2; Ages 5-15; 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. Please visit our website at http:// www.huntingdonhawks.com/information/Camps.
Basketball • Huntingdon Basketball Camp (ad on page 36)
Boys and Girls ages 6-17 Session 1: June 13-16, Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Session 2: July 25-28, Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Cost: $180; Lunch provided Call 833-4399 or 652.4465. • Huntingdon College Women’s Basketball Camps Ages 6-18 Team Camps-Varsity Girls: June 20, Varsity Boys: June 21, Middle School Girls and Boys: June 22, Kids Camp: Ages 6-17; June 13-16, July 25-28, in Main Gym Call Paige Huff at 833.4244.
Football • Huntingdon College Youth Football Camp Ages: 6 - 12 years old; Dates and Times: June 20-23 8 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Location: Newly renovated Charles Lee Field at Samford Stadium on the campus of Huntingdon College Surface: Synthetic Turf. Brochure may be downloaded at www.huntingdonhawks.com or call 833.4322.
Golf • Robert Trent Jones/Capitol Hill Golf Trail 2600 Constitutional Avenue, Prattville, 285.1114 Jr. Golf Camp, Date: 7 weeks of camps.
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June 7-10, June 14-17, June 21-24, June 28-July 1, July 12-15, July 19-22 and Aug. 2-5. Boys and girls ages 6-14 welcome to attend. Please call Robbie at (334) 333.3300 or visit www.rtjacademyofgolf.com for information. • YMCA Jr. Masters Golf Please call the Prattville YMCA, 358.9622. Monthly sessions. For boys and Girls, ages 5-9. Saturday, 11:30-1 p.m. Location: Robert Trent Jones Capital Hill.
Soccer • FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal (ad on page 81)
Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd. (indoor/air conditioned) Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach - Masters Phy. Ed.) Dates: May 30-June 3, 5 other camps offered with dates to be decided. ALL AGES - Cost: Half Days $125/week ($30/day) or Full Days $195/week ($45/day) Most Advanced Youth Development Methodology Worldwide! Come improve your technique and have fun the Brazilian way! Sign up now! Space is limited! Please visit www.fcmontgomery.com and contact coach Bruno brunomr@ fcmontgomery.com or (334) 207.5442. • YMCA Montgomery Soccer Complex Call 396.9754; 300 Brown Springs Road Summer Soccer Academy/Camps Mini-Kickers (Ages 4-5) June 13– 17, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. $65 members/$95 non-members Recreational (Ages 8-14) June 13-17, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. $125 members/$175 non-members
Advanced Skills (Ages 8-17) June 20-24, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. $125 members/$175 non-members Skill Development Academy (Ages 7-17) July 5-9, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. $125 members/$175 non-members Goal Keeping (Ages 8-17) July 18-21, 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. $100 members/$145 non-members All Camps will be held at the YMCA Soccer Complex located at 300 Brown Springs Rd, Montgomery, 36117 For more information or to request a brochure: 334-396-9754 msanchez@ymcamontgomery.org www.ymcamontgomery.org
Prattville YMCA, 600 Main Street, 365.8852 Wetumpka YMCA, Red Eagle Dr., 567.8282.
Swim
(ad on page 40)
• Adventure Sports (ad on page 29)
1546 East Ann St., Montgomery; ( 334) 269.DIVE (3483) Have your child swimming before Summer. Private swim lessons offered for ages 2 years to adult YEAR round. Indoor and outdoor pool available. Heated indoor pool for year round lessons. Pool parties offered. Please visit us at http://www.adventuresports2.com or call for info. • YMCA Branches Summer Swim Leagues; Registration: Now until August 1st. YMCA Goodtimes Center 279.8878, 2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery. East YMCA, 3407 Pelzer Ave., 272.3390 Southeast YMCA, 3455 Carter Hill Rd.,262.6411 Kershaw YMCA, 2225 W. Fairview Ave., 265.1433 Bell Road YMCA, 2435 Bell Rd., 271.4343 Cleveland Avenue YMCA, 1201 Rosa Parks., 265.0566
• Pratt Park, Prattville 361.3640; Swimming lessons. Ages 6months to 36 months and 3 and up. Please call for rates and session dates. Maximum of 20 kids. No makeup days due to weather unless the whole session is canceled. Check with your local branch for times and costs.
Tennis • O’Connor Tennis Camps 500 Anderson Street, Montgomery, 334.240.4884 Email: bbradshaw10s@gmail.com Dates: June 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 27-30 and July 11-14, 18-21, 25-28 (All classes Monday thru Thursday from 9 am to 11 am) Advance registration, $90 per week Visit their website at www.oconnortenniscenter.com.
Volleyball • Huntingdon Volleyball Camp Elementary Middle School Camp: June 23-25; Grades 1st-8th Setters Camp: June 27, 1-5 p.m.; Grades 7-12; $40 Libero Camp: June 28, 1-5 p.m.; Grades 7-12; $40 Hitters Camp: June 29, 1-5 p.m.; Grades 7-12; $40 Team Camp: July 7-9; Grades 9-12; Please visit website for more information. Elite Camp: July 22-23; Grades 8-12; Cost: $75; Individual Skill Camp: July 25-28; Grades 6-12; Cost: $150. Please visit http://www.huntingdonhawks.com/information/ Camps for more information on camp details. mp
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A Page in a Book A Wonderfully Different World Our children were born into a world where a very diverse world population is increasingly connected through technology, mobility and shared experience. Each new generation has an increased opportunity to make friends with kids whose journeys and stories may be very different from their own. The following titles explore common ground shared between the variety of cultures, lifestyles, and belief systems in our child’s world while celebrating the unique brilliance, the treasured individuality that each child adds to the marvelous mix of our planet’s people.
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by Robie H Harris, Illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott (Candlewick) Entering a crowded amusement park with his family, Gus remarks that there are so many people there. His sister Nellie points out that while that’s true, there is only ‘one’ of Gus and ‘one’ of her. As they navigate the park, filled with other patrons from various cultures and backgrounds, they discover the importance of their own individuality along with an appreciation for the rich tapestry of likewise unique people in their world. Nellie and Gus discover kids with glasses and kids without, complexions that tan and some that don’t, clothing that varies according to culture – all enjoying the same experience of the park. While celebrating diversity, Who We Are is a rich examination of all the little things that make each child a uniquely special individual.
Happy in Our Skin by Fran Manushkin, Illustrated by Lauren Tobia (Candlewick) A celebration of skin and all its marvelous power, this rhyming romp touches on all the good things that our skin can do. It keeps our insides in and the outside out. When our skins gets a scrape, it creates its own patch as it heals. Decorated with freckles, bumps, dimples and fingerprints, our skin is our own special everyday covering that is distinctly our own. And along with learning all the things that skin does everyday, Tobia’s warm illustrations explore all the different skin types that color the palette of our larger community. With shades of cinnamon, honey, cream and cocoa, this lively title is a delicious celebration of the very special skins we live in.
Peace is an Offering
by Annette LeBox, Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin (Penguin Random House) Whether it’s a shared cookie or the comfort of a hug, peace is a gift that is within every child to offer...and to receive. Peace can be the calm that follows worry, the departure from conflict or the quiet times that offers respite from our busy lives. Sparse text and soft, pencil and watercolor images reveal moments in the lives of children when simple gestures and kind words can both act as a balm as well as enhancing our sense of community. In a world characterized by so many differences, its easy to imagine that conflict is a natural outcome. This title takes a step back to refocus on the shared pleasures and generous actions that all people welcome as a part of offering the peace that everyone deserves.
Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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River Region Honors Volunteers
Hundreds gathered at Montgomery’s Trinity Presbyterian Church recently for the 2016 Volunteer of the Awards to honor volunteers for their incredible gifts of service and ongoing efforts to improve the lives of others. The annual event is held during National Volunteer Week which focuses attention on volunteers and their impact on their communities. Co-sponsored by the Junior League of Montgomery, HandsOn River Region initiated the ceremony 42 years ago after its first year in operation as a way to publicly recognize the outstanding service provided by community volunteers. Dr. Tommie “Tonea” Stewart, actress and dean of the College of Visual & Performing Arts at ASU, was keynote speaker, and WSFA’s John O’Connor served as Master of Ceremonies. Nominated by Montgomery Clean City Commission, Anne Bowman Upchurch was the recipient of the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award. Upchurch is a stalwart volunteer who has served the Montgomery Housing Authority, Montgomery Area Food Bank, Neighbors in Christ, Brantwood Children’s Home, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and the Alabama Math and Sciences School Board. As Mayor Todd Strange says, “Montgomery is a cleaner, greener city due to her tireless efforts.” Loveless Johnson, Jr. received the Senior Volunteer of the Year Award for his commitment to and involvement with the Volunteer in Police Service. Joyce Loyd-Davis, City of Millbrook councilman, who serves through the Junior League and United Way as well as her own service work, was named Adult Volunteer of the Year. Laura Grace Henry, who encourages youth service and founded the 1-4-1 Youth Partnership Group, was named Youth Volunteer of the Year. Raising Cane Volunteers, who do everything from delivering food to providing transportation for the elderly clients of Catholic Social Services, received the Adult Group award. 1-4-1 Youth Partnership, composed of children in grades 3 through 8 who are learning to engage in the community, received the Youth Group Award. As a part of each award and thanks to HandsOn’s community partners, a $500 contribution was made on behalf of the winner in each category to the nonprofit agency that nominated them. The 2016 recipients are Montgomery Clean City Commission, Montgomery Area Council on Aging, Mary Ellen’s Hearth, Catholic Social Services and 1-4-1 Youth Partnership. Shown at top right are adult winner Joyce Loyd-Davis with friends; at middle right are Lifetime Achievement winner Anne Upchurch with her husband Ken and MCCC Director Susan Carmichael; and at bottom right are senior winner Loveless Johnson, Jr., center, with AARP’s Anne Hails, HandsOn Board President Pam King, Junior League President Kimberly Baker and MACOA’s Jennifer Dvorak.
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Bradford Health Services ROAD MAP TO ADOLESCENT RECOVERY
Addiction is not an easy road for adults and can be even more difficult for teenagers. Drug and alcohol dependency can take adolescents away from their families, friends, and a successful future. Bradford Health Services has guided young people and their families
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Our children are being raised in a world much busier than the one we grew up in. Schedules are so full that multi-tasking is a normal process for them. They eat dinner in the car on the way to practice and memorize their spelling words while emptying the dishwasher. Family time has been reduced to winding down in front of the TV at the end of a long day. It’s time to put our multi-tasking skills to better use and bring back an interactive family time. Get up off the couch, shut off the screens and enjoy some family time fitness. Can’t think of anything to do? Keep reading for a little inspi-
Family Fun Runs – Sign up the family for a 5K walk/run in your area. These family friendly courses lead participants through colored foam, glo paint, mud and even obstacle courses. While many events are connected to charity fundraising, some of them are just for fun. Laser tag – This adrenaline raising activity is a great rainy day plan for families. Players wear 88
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Six Fitness Apps
My Run – Choose different categories such as walk, run or bike and let the app record your route, time, speed and calories burned. Fit Quest Lite – A fun, interactive game for your iPhone. Move your body while holding your phone to help the baby squirrel get back home. It’s as fun to watch as it is to play. Fitness Buddy – This app’s free version contains over 400 exercises with descriptions and workouts. The paid version offers over 1700 exercises! Instant Heart Rate – Place your index finger on your iPhone camera to get your hate rate reading in 10 seconds. Seven Minute Work Out – This app by Wahoo Fitness is the #1 fitness app in 127 countries. It offers 12, 30-second exercises (with 10 second intervals). You get a complete workout in seven minutes – great for families on the run. Simply Yoga – Wind down at the end of your busy day with your own personal yoga instructor. Videos demonstrate poses and offer 20, 40 or 60 minutes workouts.
Got Dust? It's virtually impossible to avoid—and it can trigger an asthma attack. Asthma is characterized by excessive sensitivity of the lungs to various stimuli. Certain triggers—ranging from viral infections to allergies to irritating gases and particles in the air—can make asthma worse. Each child reacts differently to the factors that may trigger asthma.
We can help you recognize what makes your child's asthma worse and find simple solutions to reduce and avoid asthma attacks.
ChildrensAL.org/asthma
lightweight targeted vests and carry a “loaded” laser gun. Played in a semi dark room with plenty of places to hide, teams try to hit their opponents target and get points for each hit.
Asthma Clinic Specialized asthma care for:
Hiking – Local forest preserves and state parks offer trails with various levels of difficulty. Park district jogging paths often include fitness stations along the pathway. Pack some water, a snack and the family dog for an afternoon of family fun.
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Children with severe asthma Children with repeat hospital and/or urgent care visits Children and families with unique asthma education needs l Children with other conditions that make asthma hard to control l l
Appointments made by physician referral only. For appointments, call: 205.638.9583
ChildrensAL.org/asthma For Children’s Financial Assistance information contact 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance
Pull out the bikes – Many of the local trails are set up for bikes as well. Let the kids ride their own bicycle or bring them along in a bike trailer if they are younger. Cycling 10-12 mph burns 30-45 calories per mile depending on your weight.
Trampoline arena – While it looks like a lot of fun, jumping on a trampoline uses a lot of energy. In addition to simple trampoline jumping, many arenas include dodge ball courts and air-robics classes. Explore your city – On a recent trip to the city, our family spent the day exploring on foot. We walked an incredible six miles while sightseeing, shopping and snapping pictures. Although the city is filled with transportation options, we didn’t want to miss anything. Walking burns 100 calories per mile, leaving plenty of room for a guilt free dinner.
Pick-up games – Even the busiest of families can find time for a 30 minute pick-up game. Challenge a neighboring family to a quick game of soccer at the park or basketball in the driveway. Other family games include volleyball, kickball or Frisbee golf. Get out on the water – Rent a canoe, rowboat, kayak or paddleboats for a little exercise and inexpensive fun. Did you know that paddling uses 7 muscle groups including arms, shoulders and core?
have weekend and evening open skate times and offer family fun packages. If you prefer wheels over blades, check out the local roller rink instead.
Video games – Yes, you read it right. I am encouraging family fitness in the form of a video game. Try Wii Just Dance, Wii Fit Plus, Kinect Sports for Xbox or Sports Champion for PS3. The kids will love the opportunity to play with their game systems and their parents will like the games that get them off the couch. mp
Fun on the ice – If the weather isn’t cooperating at the outdoor skate park, head to the ice rink to cool your heels. Ice rinks often 89
Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three busy teens. They are a multi-tasking family who combines fitness and family time whenever possible.
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Francis Marion Chapter DAR Honors 2016 Good Citizen Winners
Grandview Girls Reunion
The Grandview Family YMCA in Millbrook boasts a rich history dating back to the early 1900s as an all-girls’ resident camp. By the 1960s, Camp Grandview was hailed as one of the 10 largest girls camps in America, offering horseback riding, canoeing, archery, riflery, arts & crafts, synchronized swimming, and theatrical performances. It’s estimated that some 15,000 young women from around the south came through the gates of Camp Grandview during the summers between 1960 and 1980. On Saturday, May 21, the Grandview Family YMCA (Camp Grandview) will welcome back any and all “Grandview Girls” who want to revisit their old summer home. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., camp alumni and their families are invited back to camp to share camp memories, meet old friends, enjoy camp activities, and have lunch. For questions or more info about the camp reunion, please contact Bill Myers at 290-9622 or bmyers@ymcamontgomery.org.
Troop 13 Awards Newest Eagle Scout
Scotty Dennis, a sophomore at Wetumpka High School, recently became the newest Eagle Scout at Wetumpka’s Boy Scout Troop 13. In high school, Dennis has been a member of the award-winning WHS Steam Machine robotics team, DECA Club, Key Club, Beta Club, Envirobowl, Science Olympiad, Cyber Patriots and the wrestling team. He was previously a Cub Scout in both Pack 50 and Pack 2, before joining Troop 13 as a seventh-grader. Troop positions held by Dennis include senior patrol leader, scribe and patrol leader. His favorite thing about Boy Scouts is taking high adventure trips such as Boundary Waters in Minnesota and Sea Base in Key West, Florida. For his Eagle project, Dennis refurbished a deck at the Freeman House owned by First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka, the chartered organization of Troop 13. Upon high school graduation, Dennis intends to enroll at Carnegie Mellon University and become a software engineer. Montgomery Parents I May 2016
On April 13 at the Montgomery Country Club, Francis Marion Chapter, NSDAR, honored the winners of its sponsored schools’ Good Citizens and Essay Contest winner at a buffet lunch. The students’ parents and school counselors were also honored by Regent Andrea Cartwright Harris and the Francis Marion Good Citizen Chairman Shan Russell. The students were presented with a pin, a certificate, and a book for their school libraries featuring a bookplate with their names and “Good Citizen Award Winner 2016” inside. The winner of the essay contest, Jackson Leo Scott of Trinity Presbyterian School, read his winning essay to the members and guests. Front row from left are Claire Fischer, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, and Emilee Ellis, Edgewood Academy. Back row are James Edward Kelly, III, Saint James, and Jackson Leo Scott, Trinity Presbyterian. Not pictured is the Good Citizen winner for Alabama Christian Academy, Anna Caroline Rives, who was unable to attend.
ADT Represents the City & State in Raleigh, NC
Thanks to the support of The JK Lowder Foundation, the Jean and Adolph Weil, Jr. Family and the office of Senator Quinton T. Ross, Jr., the Alabama Dance Theatre, in its 29th Season, traveled to Raleigh/Durham, NC to represent the City of Montgomery and the State of Alabama. The RDA/ SERBA (Regional Dance America/ Southeastern Regional Ballet Association) Festival took place April 27-May 1. This prominent festival brings all of the member companies in the Southeast together. Young dancers can attend classes with renowned faculty, perform as a company, audition and be seen by college recruiters and prestigious companies from around the nation. At the festival ADT dancers, along with 600 dancers from throughout the Southeast, had the opportunity to take ballet, pointe, modern and jazz dance classes from nationally recognized faculty as well as attend seminars on relevant subjects such as auditioning for professional companies and choosing a college dance program. They also attended performances featuring some of the nation’s finest dancers. Sara Sanford’s “Kakegoe” was selected by adjudicator Leslie Crockett to close the Friday evening concert. “Kakegoe,” with music by Kodo, Tan Dun, was danced by Aloria Adams, Orobosa Aghedo, Catherine Cobb, Amelia Felder, Safiya Haque, Francie Hill, Karen Licari, Destiny McGhee, Maya Pegues, Virginia Perry, Jordan Ricks, Ke’Yana Robinson and Lauren Taylor. Savanna Moore’s new work was chosen for the Emerging Choreographer Showcase. “18X” with music by Coeur de Pirate’s Ain’t No Sunshine, was performed on Thursday by Esosa Aghedo. Fifty Alabama Dance Theatre dancers, staff, and chaperones attended the Festival. For more information on summer classes and performances, call (334) 241-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com. 90
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Montgomery Multisports Recognizes Athletes Who Make a Difference
Since 2010, Montgomery Multisport Charities has given an outlet for “athletes to make a difference” in the River Region. The group organizes, and assists others in organizing, fitness events for the purpose of raising money for various causes. Montgomery Multisports provides a unique means to stay in shape, join friends in fitness, and find competition in endurance events. The Montgomery Marathon has allowed Montgomery Multisports to donate each year. In 2015 the group began saving money for a scholarship fund and is now able to award a total of $10,000 in its first scholarship year. 2017 will be funded with the same amount. Those receiving the Montgomery Multisport Charities Scholarships for 2016 were selected by a student board of directors and have met the following criteria: minimum 3.5 GPA; recommendation by coaches, headmasters, church leaders, and teachers; success in the areas of swimming, biking,
running, or triathlon; and leadership and community service. The four award winners this year averaged ABOVE a 4.0. They include state champions in track and field & cross country, team captains, student government leaders, leaders in Fellowship of Christian athletes, school ambassadors, missionaries and more. Bronze awards go to: Emma Moody of Saint James and Patrick Easley of East Memorial Christian Academy; a silver award goes to Devin Gilliam of Alabama Christian Academy; and a gold award goes to Jack Barganier of Montgomery Academy. In addition, the American Red Cross was presented with $3,000 from the Marathon proceeds. Their volunteers were critical in making the event a success. Child Protect was presented with $1,000. From left are Jake Maddox (MMSC VP), Emma Moody, Devin Gilliam, Jack Barganier, Patrick Easley, Sailor Miles (MMSC President), and Mayor Strange.
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Family Karate Center News
The students of Family Karate Center were proud to represent Montgomery at the Atlantic Pacific Tang Soo Do Championships April 15 and 16 in Trussville. Students as young as three years old performed their blocks, kicks, and self defense moves for black belt judges, while also competing in weapon skills and board breaking. Sparring was part of the day’s fun competition. Sam Raney started the day off in the teen black belt division, winning two medals for his school. The other color belts ages 4 and up competed with friends they have known in the Tang Soo Do Federation for years, and will look forward to seeing them all again in July at the Internationals. Front row from left are: Master Carole Smith, Alicia Rogers, Josie Dye, Amos Brock, Walker Taunton, Tucker Swink, Bella Watson and Aaron Holtsford; back row: Stella Sponseller, Nate Flowers, CJ Majors, Harris Jones, Zach Stephenson, Sam Raney, and instructor Jesse Dye. Demo Team try-outs are open to the public free on May 7 for ALL children in Montgomery, ages 2 and up!! Call 220-9319 for more info.
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Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing
Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. In Grandma’s Attic, kids can try on clothes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities to do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. Follow us on Facebook, call 242-4435 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs meeting on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building). Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333.
Friday Night Hoops Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must play basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ ymcamontgomery.org.
for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500 or vist www.landmarksfoundation.com/. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area and help new residents do the same. For information on meetings and locations, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-9897 or nschrull@ knology.net. Prattville Movie Club (for Teens) Meeting twice a month on Fridays, current Prattville Movie Club members range from 14-18 years old and meet at the Carmike Promenade 12 on Cobbs Ford Road. There are no GPA requirements and no class requirements. We are friends who enjoy moviegoing and want to meet others who also enjoy watching movies. For more info, call (334) 2247811 or e-mail brandonperdue12@gmail.com.
Brain Pump is a group exercise class, targeting children 4-12 years old. The class is the collaboration of a physical therapist and a kinesiology professor combining traditional therapy and exercise concepts with the latest cutting edge research on movement and the brain. This is all done in a fun, energetic setting, that seems much more like playing than exercising. Brain Pump is taught at Metro Fitness on Saturdays from 11-11:45 a.m. Contact Tiffany Higginbotham at Body Logic PT & Wellness (334-380-5920) for more info. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 4579254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. Central Alabama Contra Dancers Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and entire families are welcome. All levels of experience - including no experience. Dancing is on 1st and 3rd Fridays from 7-9 p.m. at the MASDA building, 2200 Popular St. For more info, visit www.contralines.com or email info@contralines.com. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School!
Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/ person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799 or visit http://www. troy.edu/planetarium/.
Harriott II Riverboat Cruises Seasonal. Typical hours are 6:30-9 p.m. Live entertainment, cash bar and concessions available. For more info and available dates, visit www.funinmontgomery.com, call (334) 625-2100 or visit the Riverwalk Box Office at 200 Coosa Street. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum 468 South Perry Street. Learn how 21 young people helped change our nation’s history using nonviolent protest. Black and white, male and female, none of them were older than 21. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, noon -4 p.m. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or call (334) 242-3184. MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8
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Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!
“Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333.
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First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the Civil War and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org.
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Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10. For more info, call 241-8615 or visit www. troy.edu/rosaparks/. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are May 11 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info. YMCA 7 to 11 Club Calling all children ages 7 to 11 for this fun, free event. While Mom and Dad are working out, join us for games, arts & crafts, service projects and more. Earn special beads for participation and try to break records for superior achievements. Monthly special events will be hosted as well. Check with your YMCA center or visit ymcamontgomery.org for more details.
Classes
Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Caring For Your Newborn This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Partners are encouraged to attend. $20 fee per couple. 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.
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Calendar/Support Groups Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week evening series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, Caesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and newborn characteristics are included. A maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. This class is $60 per couple. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. iA 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp Fast-paced Saturday class including the same information offered in our weekly series in a compressed format. Maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. Fee is $60 per couple and includes 2 box lunches. Space is limited. 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. ID required. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more info or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. Infant Safety/CPR Class Includes care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors, but this is not a certification class. $10 fee per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and
is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www. Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Includes 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. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. $20 per couple. 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. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Second Saturday of each month, 10 a.m.-noon. NICU Conference Room, Baptist Medical Center South. This class is free to the community. Moms in their second trimester are welcome. Those that qualify will receive incentives. No children please. This is a learning environment. Call (334) 286-2829 to register.
May2016 innovative ideas that add to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Baptist Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more info, call (334) 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and (334) 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Hospital Animal Therapy Program Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894. Jackson Hospital Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital information desk volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. Call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson. org/patients_volunteers.html.
Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. Slow Flow Yoga Classes are held at Old Alabama Town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:3012:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to Molton South Building. Enter through the Rose House, located on Columbus St. between N. Hull and Decatur. Parking is available along Decatur and N. Hull. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days). Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com.
Services
American Cancer Society Seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more info, or to volunteer, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Baptist Hospice Volunteers There are many ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and
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Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. River Region Association of Doulas Doulas Traci Weafer, Rebekah Hawkins and Christina Clark provide prenatal counseling, labor and postpartum doula services, breastfeeding education, events and support groups. Contact rradoulas@gmail.com or visit rradoulas. weebly.com or https://www.facebook.com/RRADoulas/.
Support Groups Adoption Support
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial
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Calendar/Support Groups UMC. For more info, call Monica Russell at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@ childrensaid.org. Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Audrey Derevenko at (205) 943-5343 or e-mail adereven@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@ yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.
Cancer Support
American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 for more info. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.
Divorce Support
DivorceCare meets Tuesdays beginning May 3 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Join us for support and guidance as you work through the issues, pain and pressures surrounding divorce. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@ frazerumc.org for more info.
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DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. “Never Go Back” meets at Frazer UMC beginning May 3. Are you stuck in a pattern of going back to the same relationships or situations hoping for or expecting different results? In this new study, you will recognize and truly change those life patterns that hold you back and keep you from your goals, so you will never go back. Call 4956368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.
Gambling Support
Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420
Grief Support
Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children ages 7-11 who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 2796677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 2796677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organiza-
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tion for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 272-8622 for more info. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. GriefShare, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www. honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group.
Homeschool Support
ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com
Illness Support
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 272-8622. The Renaissance Spirit Group (an adult day group for Alzheimer’s patients in their early to middle stages) meets each Thursday from 10 a.m.-2
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p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Registration is required. For more info, contact Nancy McLain at (334) 233-2139.
Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742.
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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.
Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622.
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Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. Meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. You will experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” is led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Depression/Bipolar Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 272-8622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com. Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 2019638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info.
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. Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more info, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.
Parent Support
Circle of Moms Club Meets May 2, 16 & 30, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at UAB School of Medicine Basement Auditorium, adjacent to Baptist Medical Center South. Bring your baby, your questions, and hang out with other moms and moms-to-be. A lactation nurse will be at each meeting to offer expert help. A baby scale will also be available to monitor the weight of your baby. Light lunch provided, and door prizes! For more info, call (334) 286-2829 or e-mail llrambo@baptistfirst.org. D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@ llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc. org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:3011:30 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.
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May2016 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 VFCMOPS@gmail.com. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Redland Baptist Church in Wetumpka. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. during the school year. We also have scheduled play dates and mom’s nights out. Moms get together to share food, laugh, and hear inspiring speakers. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. For more info, call (334) 567-8649 or visit www.mops.org/redlandmops.
Pregnancy Loss/Infertility
Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information. “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. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many familyoriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.
Special Needs Support
Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2016 pageant date TBA. Visit www. alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info.
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Calendar/Support Groups Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info, e-mail LyraStephens@yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate, Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more info, e-mail Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.
Teens/Families Support
Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE program through Family Guidance Center of Alabama and a partnership with the Alabama Healthy Marriage and Relationship Initiative (AHMREI). LIFT provides relationship and marriage education and real-world skills through fun, distinctive workshops, information & referral services, ongoing support, and the LIFT library. Singles, non-married parents, stepfamilies, premarital couples, and married couples can all enjoy the benefits of LIFT workshops: ELEVATE blends 7 practical skills with an understanding of the physiology of human interaction (the heart-brain-behavior connection). Couples can get skills to help manage stress and reduce conflict. Learn how to relax, get to know each other more deeply, and make your relationship something you look forward to every day! Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter.org today! In Relationship Smarts (RS+), participants learn what true love really is, the role of “brain chemicals,” how to build healthy relationships, how to handle breakups, the “red flags” to domestic violence, relationship skills, and so much more. Written for 9th through 12th graders, RS+ is a solid, basic curriculum for adults too. Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter.org today! Date Nights! is a program for couples that are in committed relationships. Using the Basic Training curriculum, participants get the unique opportunity to enjoy a date together at a local restaurant- ON US! Topics include benefits of a healthy marriage, communication, surrender, problem-solving as a team, and intimacy. Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter.org, or www. familyguidancecenter.org today! How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette) is a great program for singles and daters. Participants learn the technical definition of a “jerk” and how to spot one, how to build a healthy relationship, and the five things to know in order to be able to predict what someone would be like in marriage. Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@ familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter. org today! For Couples Only is a must-have for any couple in any stage of their relationship. Using the Mastering the Mysteries of Love curriculum, couples go through intensive training in communication, conflict management, and problem-solving. Contact Tonya at 270-4100, trogers@ familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter. org today!
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
Smart Steps for Stepfamilies was created for couples where at least one partner is not the biological parent of at least one child in the family. This curriculum is useful for all stepfamily couples regardless of whether the couple is married. A children’s component is often available. Contact Tonya Rogers at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter. org, or www.familyguidancecenter.org today! Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.
This Month Sunday, May 1
Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museum Spring Spectacular -- All month Wetumpka. Reproductions of famous statuary from Greek and Roman times, and many flowers you do not usually see in the Deep South. Perennials include delphinium and digitalis, with such familiar annuals as tulips, Japanese cherries and azaleas loaded with blossoms. Open Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, noon-5 p.m. For more info, visit www. jasminehill.org. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream -- Through May 8 The path to true love never runs smoothly--especially when you’re in a magical forest haunted by fairies and mischievous spirits. One of Shakespeare’s most beloved romantic comedies. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Cloverdale-Idlewild Spring Concert Series -Also May 8, 15 & 22 4-7 p.m. Cloverdale Bottom Park, intersection of Cloverdale Road and Ponce de Leon Avenue, Montgomery. ADMISSION IS FREE! Bring your chairs or blankets, coolers, snacks. Plan to sit under the beautiful oak trees in the park setting and enjoy the music. Leashed dogs are also welcome, so bring your furry babies as well. April 3 Blackbird Pickers, April 10 Ed Pickett, April 17 Ziggy and April 24 Gypsy Cornbread. Find us on Facebook. Music in May at The Waters’ Town Square -Also May 8, 15, 22 & 29 2-4 p.m. The Waters at Pike Road. Grab your lawn chairs and coolers and invite your friends. Join us for live music including May 1: Gypsy Cornbread; May 8 & 22: Anthony Oliver; May 15: Rachael Wilson; and May 29: Back-Hines Dixie Ensemble. Visit www.thewatersal.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Driving Miss Daisy -- Through May 15 What begins as a hostile clashing of wills between a stubborn Jewish matriarch and a proud black man evolves into a decades-long friendship as the two navigate Civil Rights-era Atlanta. With humor and heartfelt emotion, Alfred Uhry’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play poignantly explores the transformative power of true friendship. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Special Needs Skate -- Also May 15 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com. Civil Rights Walking Tours -- Every Saturday and Sunday 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. start times. Tours start from The Village Gallery. Come explore Montgomery’s history walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era. Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under - $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling (334) 595-9243.
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May2016 Old Cloverdale May Festival A festival for the entire family, with activities for kids and refreshments. The event also will include traditional May Festival staples such as a procession of the May Queen and dancing of the Maypole. This year’s May Queen is Isabel Blancett, a senior at St. James who has been active in service projects throughout her community. A parade, open to the public, will begin from the Old Cloverdale Community Garden at 2:45 p.m., terminating at College Street Park. Prior to that, a bike and wagon decorating station will be open at 2 p.m. at the Garden for those wishing to join the parade.This free event is open to the public. For more info, call (334) 413-1767. Enroll in First Class, Alabama’s Voluntary Pre-K Program at The YMCA Goodtimes Center Through May 31 Alabama’s state-funded First Class pre-K program is now being offered at the YMCA Goodtimes Center. The only requirement to enroll is that the child must be 4 years old as of September 1, 2015. The program is free to all participants and will follow the Montgomery Public School’s calendar. The program begins at 8 a.m. and runs until 2:30 p.m. Applications must be completed in person at the YMCA Goodtimes Center. DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS MAY 31 FOR THE 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR. For more info, call (334) 279-8666. First Sundays at One -- Also June 5 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the traveling exhibitions as well as the Museum’s Permanent Collection in these FREE docentled tours the FIRST Sunday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
Wednesday, May 4
Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided. Paul Simon Performs at the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Concert Hall, 8 p.m. Ticket prices begin at $67.50. Limit 4. All ages must have a ticket to enter. No professional cameras/no recordings. Visit http://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.
Thursday, May 5
The Power of Positive Parenting Workshop Series -- Ends May 19 Four-week session meets weekly from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Vaughn Park Church of Christ. Skills covered include proactive parenting, setting realistic expectations, communicating expectations, effectively using timeout, parenting teenagers, what to ignore, what to address, using praise to manage behavior and much more! $40. Preregistration required. Call Varina at (334) 3873256 or e-mail vmead@eastersealsca.org. Celtic Woman Performs at the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Concert Hall, 7 p.m. Please check Ticketmaster for pricing and availability. Everyone must have a ticket. No cameras/no video. Visit http://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400. Montgomery Rotary Club FunnyRaiser Comedian Nate Bargatze helps the Montgomery Rotary Club raise funds for the Boys & Girls Club of the River Region and Common Ground Montgomery at the Davis Theatre. Bargatze has been featured on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and on Late Night with Conan O’Brien. A VIP reception will start at 6 p.m., and the show will
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Calendar/Support Groups begin at 7 p.m. $25 General Admission. For more info, call (334) 260-4021 or visit www.montgomeryrotaryclub.com.
Coosa River Pkwy., Wetumpka. Admission $10 adults; $5 children ages 5-12; and free for children under 5.
Taste of the Gardens 2016 5-8 p.m. Presented by Southern Homes & Gardens (SH&G) and the American Red Cross, this event includes a silent auction featuring works from local artists; tasting from the River Region’s finest restaurants & caterers; wine and music with Henry Pugh. Event tickets are $25, and may be purchased at SH&G, Caffco Outlet or at the American Red Cross, Central Alabama. For more info, contact Kari at (334) 260-4016 or e-mail kari.hennagin2@ redcross.org.
Saturday, May 7
Lowe’s Build and Grow 7 p.m. Mother’s Day is right around the corner! Bring your child to Lowe’s for this special Thursday Night clinic and they can build a chalkboard planter. Along with the wooden project, they get a free apron, goggles, and patch. Visit https://lowesbuildandgrow.com/clinics.
Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Comedy of Errors Twenty years after being separated in a shipwreck as babies, two pairs of identical twins find themselves in a seaport town with a reputation for sorcery and magic. Mistaken for each other, they are constantly bewildered by bizarre encounters, cross-purpose conversations and baffling misunderstandings. It all ends in riotous chaos! Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
Friday, May 6
Parents’ Night Out 6-10 p.m. Let the Grandview YMCA watch your child while you take the night to go to a movie, relax at home, go grocery shopping or have a date night. Ccost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members. For more info, contact Bill Myers at (334) 290-9622 or bmyers@ ymcamontgomery.org. Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also May 13 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/first child; $15 per sibling. For ages 5-12. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walk-ins accepted until maximum number is reached. Visit www. unitedgymstarsandcheer.com for more info. Friday Night Hoops -- Also May 20 Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also May 20 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.
Kids Eat Free at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game Start time 7:05 p.m. All kids 12 and under can eat free from our concessions. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. Wetumpka High School Musical Theatre Presents The Wiz -- Also May 7, 12-14 6:30 p.m. performances all days; also a 2:30 p.m. matinee May 7. Wetumpka High School Commons, 1251
Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents White Lightning Can a young man get off the wrong track and on to the right one before the revenuers catch up with him? A story about moonshine, racing and adventure that takes a snapshot of the1940s South and the rough and tumble origins of NASCAR. A new Southern play by Gee’s Bend playwright Elyzabeth Gregory Wilder. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.
19th Annual Frazer Flea Market for Missions 7 a.m.-1 p.m. in the parking lot across S. Burbank Dr. from Frazer. Call (334) 495-6368 now or e-mail singles@ frazerumc.org for more info.
May2016 4th Annual Low Country Shrimp Boil Fundraiser Join the Somerset YMCA from noon-4 p.m. and enjoy shrimp, potatoes, sausage and corn all cooked in a Cajun seasoning. Beverage is included. The day will include great music, great food and great fellowship with friends. Cost: $20 per person; $35 per couple; and $5 per child. For more info or to purchase tickets, contact James Daniels at (334) 356-1351 or jdaniels@ymcamontgomery.org. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Presents Flimp Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Blount Cultural Park and the MMFA. Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for children. FREE to Museum Members and Active Duty Military and their families. This year the Museum continues its partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet High School to showcase the talents of the students in visual and performing arts. Other events include the Do-Dah pet parade, family treasure hunt, and children’s activities. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/visit/ flimp-festival/. Agape’s Run for a Mom 5K and Fun Run 7-10 a.m., Vaughn Park Church of Christ. Honor a special woman when you run this Mother’s Day weekend, whether it’s the lady you call “mom” or a special lady you’ve always adored. Whoever it is, make sure to wear or carry something while you run to serve as a reminder of her. For info, call (334) 272-9466 or visit www.runforamom.org.
Living History Program at Fort Toulouse - Fort Jackson Featuring 1814 Militia -- Also June 4 All events are $2/adult & $1/child unless otherwise noted. Call (334) 567-3002 for more information. Old Alabama Town Herb Society’s 19th Annual Herb Day Festival 8 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Living Block of Old Alabama Town. Free to the public. There will be music, children’s activities and an open-air market. A variety of vendors will sell their garden-related wares including a huge selection of herbs and other plants, crafts, herbal teas, goat cheeses, and various and sundry yard art. For more info, visit www. oathsblog.com or e-mail oathsblog@gmail.com. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents 3 Doors Down with The Glorious Sons 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $38. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100 for tickets. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Southern Voices 7:30 p.m. For great writers telling great stories in a great part of the country, look to the South. The Playhouse presents a new mix of readings and music celebrating a great American treasure. From Capote to Welty, the list is impressive and memorable. Tickets are $15. For tickets or more info, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Military Appreciation Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game Start time 6:35 p.m. Join us as we celebrate our local members of the military. We will have special pre-game and in-game ceremonies. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. The 4th Annual Montgomery Black Rodeo Garrett Coliseum. The rodeo begins at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6. This one will feature professional cowboys performing phenomenal feats of skill as they compete for prize money, in categories such as bull riding, steer wrestling, bare back riding, calf roping, team roping, and barrel racing. Junior barrel racing and junior break-away calf roping for the kids. Tickets can be purchased at the Garrett Coliseum Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, or by phone at 800-745-3000. Visit www.serodeo.com. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “build an Angry Birds birdhouse.” After the birdhouse is built, your child can decorate his project with Angry Birds stickers. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free.
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Fido Fest 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Shoppes at EastChase near Dillard’s. Fido Fest 2016 will benefit the Montgomery Humane Society! It will include a wide array of vendors, doggy activities, great food from local food trucks, K9 splash zone, live music and much more! Tickets are $10 for ages 12 and up; kids under 12 are free! Bring your dog, kids, a chair and enjoy all of the fun at The Shoppes at EastChase! For more info, call (334) 279-6046 or visit Facebook. The Urban Slide -- Also May 8 10 a.m.-11 p.m. The Urban Slide is bringing 1,000 feet of slippery sliding to Montgomery. Visit this family-friendly event as we slip, slide, and party until after nightfall where you can also enjoy the glow-in-the-dark night slide! The slide will be set up downtown on Montgomery Street. Registration ranges from $10-$30. Visit www.theurbanslide. com/events/montgomery-al/ AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Alabama Nature Center Weekends -- Every Saturday Guests are encouraged to arrive by 10 a.m. to enjoy the first of the day’s activities. Take a look around the the Discovery Hall, enjoy the movie specials in the theater, and explore the trails. Vending machines will provide snacks/ drinks. Gift shop will be open. Visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call 1-800-822-9453. Pike Road Arts Council Hosts Series of Oil Painting Classes for Ages 12 & Up -- Also May 28 9 a.m.-noon at Pike Road Founders Station (4902 Pike Road). Local artist Glenda Adams will teach attendees how to capture form, mix color, create depth, reflections and perspective in paintings, and much more. Each three-hour
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Calendar/Support Groups workshop only costs $40 and supplies will be provided for the first class. Reserve your space today by e-mailing patty@ pikeroad.us or by calling (334) 495-4108. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also May 14, 21 & 28; and June 4 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies Included. Ages 3 and up. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. May 7 is tissue paper flower; May 14 is dream catcher; May 21 is string art; May 28 is patriotic banner; and June 4 is pastel butterfly. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/.
Sunday, May 8
Montgomery Zoo Offers Free Admission to Moms for Mother’s Day Visit www.montgomeryzoo.com or call (334) 240-4900 for more info. Montgomery Biscuits Bark in the Park/Kids Day Start time 2:05 p.m. Take your furry friend to the ballgame! All dogs get in free! Every Sunday afternoon game, kids will have the chance to play catch on the field prior to the game and run the bases after the game! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.
Tuesday, May 10
VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm downtown. For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth.org or visit www.facebook.com/ VegOutMontgomery.
Wednesday, May 11
Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/. 26th Annual Charity Golf Classic Benefiting Boys & Girls Clubs Of The River Region Wynlakes Golf and Country Club. Select a level of sponsorship, organize a foursome to play golf or we could add you to a group for $175 per golfer; Raffle Tickets - $10. The day includes a lunch, golf fees, awards, goody bags and pictures with coaches fore kids. For more info, e-mail Luella Giles at lgiles@bgcriverregion. org or call (334) 832-4288.
Artists in Residence, violinist Nadir Khashimov and cellist Natalie Helm, in the last of a six-concert series known as the Fellowship Series. All concerts are presented in the Wilson Auditorium located in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. This month’s performance is at 7:30 p.m. and features Khashimov on Violin and Barno Nishanova on piano. Single tickets are available for $17 for adults. Students age six and over are admitted free. For more info, call (334) 240-4004 or visit www.montgomerysymphony. org/fellowship-series/.
Friday, May 13
“Autism: Unlocking the Mystery” Conference 8 a.m.-3:15 p.m. at Dalraida Church of Christ, 3740 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery. Registration still open. Walk-up registrations welcome. Visit http://specialconferences.com/. Parents’ Night Out 6-10 p.m. Let the Grandview YMCA watch your child while you take the night to go to a movie, relax at home, go grocery shopping or have a date night. The cost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members. For more info, contact Bill Myers at (334) 290-9622 or bmyers@ ymcamontgomery.org. Family Faith Night at Biscuits Baseball Game Start time 7:05 p.m. Join us for baseball presented in a wholesome, religious atmosphere featuring a pre-game concert by a nationally-recognized music group. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. Prattville CityFest 2016 -- Also May 14 30th annual celebration of Prattville rain or shine. Opening ceremonies Friday at 6:45 p.m.; street dance with Tip Tops and free admission Friday night. Saturday arts & crafts 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Pay at the gate. Admission $2 per person; $1 with Military ID. Children 5 & under get in free.Visit www. prattvillecityfest.com/
Saturday, May 14
Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/eve nts/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.
Thursday, May 12
Wetumpka Depot Theatre Presents I Hate Hamlet -- Through May 28 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2 p.m. May 22. Written by Paul Rudnick and directed by Tom Salter. Andrew, an aspiring actor, has landed the role of a lifetime as Hamlet. There is just one problem…he hates Hamlet. Will Andrew’s debut be a triumph or a tragedy? Find out in this fast-paced and funny play. Tickets may be purchased at wetumpkadepot.com or by calling (334) 868-1440. 27th Annual Greek Food Festival -- Through May 13 11 a.m.-8 p.m. both days. Greek Orthodox Church at the corner of Mt. Meigs and Capital Parkway. For info, call (334) 221-9511 or visit www.agocmal.org. Capri Theatre Presents Cool Hand Luke 7:30 p.m. This is the classic featuring Paul Newman. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org/. Montgomery Symphony Orchestra’s Fellowship Series The Montgomery Symphony Association presents its two
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
May2016 25th Annual Pancake Run for Missions First United Methodist Church. Course runs through Old Cloverdale neighborhood. All participants invited to a complimentary pancake breakfast immediately following the race in the Fellowship Hall, sponsored by The United Methodist Men. The 5K will start at 8 a.m., the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk will begin at 9, and the Tot Trot will begin at 9:15 a.m. Non-racers may enjoy pancakes for a $5 donation. Event is open to the public. For more info or to register, call (334) 834-8990 or visit www.fumcmontgomery.org/ missions/run-for-missions. EAT South Organic Spring Workshops 9-11 a.m. EAT South Downtown Farm, 425 Molton Street, Montgomery. Today’s topic is “Backyard Chickens.” Participants should be prepared to be outside. Water, clothes that can get dirty, and sunscreen are essentials. Recommended donation: $10. To find out more and reserve your spot, call (334) 422-9331 or e-mail info@eatsouth.org. Also find us on Facebook. Space is limited. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Bill Engvall 8 p.m. Veteran stand-up comedian Bill Engvall is best known for the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, which also featured best friend and fellow comic Jeff Foxworty. Tickets begin at $45 Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 4815100 for tickets.
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Hall of Heroes at the Birmingham McWane Center Channel your inner superhero and experience McWane’s newest summer exhibit. Learn the circumstances that create superheroes, discover the ideals heroes uphold, and push boundaries as to what it truly means to be heroic in the Hall of Heroes! Visit www.mcwane.org for more info.
Sunday, May 15
Yoga in the Park Join the Yoga Wellness Center at Cloverdale’s Bottom Park from 4:30-6 p.m. This is a community donation class with a minimum donation of $5. Beginners are welcome. For more info, call (334) 398-8161. YMCA Camp Chandler Open House -- Also June 5 Thinking about signing up for summer camp? Come on out and meet the staff and check out the camp from 2-4 p.m. Visit http://ymcamontgomery.org/camp/.
Tuesday, May 17
Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org.
Wednesday, May 18
Wonderfully Made Seminars for Women Noon-1 p.m. MCI Auditorium on the Campus of Baptist South. Sometimes women, busy with day-today activities, don’t take time for their health. This monthly program provides women of all ages with straightforward information about current health topics, as well as what it takes to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Lunch is provided. Space is limited. Please register if you plan to attend by calling (334) 273-4444.
Thursday, May 19
Second Saturdays -- Through August Every second Saturday April through August, you are invited to Riverfront Park for a day full of family-friendly fun! The fun includes live entertainment, interactive activities for kids, various food & drink vendors and adult libations at the SandBAR at the Silos. $1 Admission, 12 and under free. All proceeds benefit local charities. For more info, call (334) 6252100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com/.
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Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “The Music of the Birmingham District’s Mines, Railroads, and Mills,” presented by Karen R. Utz. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents ‘The Curious Savage’ -- Through June 5 Written by John Patrick, directed by Sam Wallace. Heartwarming family comedy with a message of love,
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loss, and the things that matter most in life. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $10 or for $12 at the door. Call (334) 595-0854 or visit wobt.prattvilleal.gov.
Friday, May 20
Freedom Rides Museum Commemorates the 55th Anniversary of the Freedom Rides -- Also May 21 If you or your loved one participated in the Freedom Rides and are interested in participating in the anniversary events in May, please contact Dorothy Walker at (334) 230-2676 or at freedomridesmuseum@gmail. com. A schedule of events will be posted at www. freedomridesmuseum.org. Info will also be posted online at the museum’s Facebook page. River Bend Brew Fest 6-9 p.m. Union Station Train Shed, 300 Water St, Montgomery. Featuring a large selection of craft, specialty and seasonal brews from local, regional and national breweries. Tickets are $25 and include a commemorative tasting glass. For $10 more you can ride the Harriott II Brews Cruise at 9:30. Tickets can be purchased atwww.funinmontgomery.com, Derk’s Filet and Vine and Peppertree Steaks and Wine.
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River Jam Music Festival -- Also May 21 Union Station Train Shed from 6-10 p.m. both nights; also at Riverwalk Ampitheatre May 21 from 5:30-11 p.m. Free admission. Food and drink vendors will be available. No Outside Coolers, Food or Drinks Permitted. Call (334) 625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com for more information.
Saturday, May 21
Living History Program at Fort Toulouse - Fort Jackson Featuring the French All events are $2/adult & $1/child unless otherwise noted. Call (334) 567-3002 for more information. Auditions for The Adventures Of Tom Sawyer Also May 22 2 p.m. at the Cloverdale Playhouse in Montgomery. Written by Mark Twain; adapted by Laura Eason. Young actors ages 8-18 are invited to audition for this Cloverdale Playhouse Troupe production, directed by Jason Morgan, with performances July 29- 31. Visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org for more details or call (334) 262-1530 with questions. Break a leg! National Kids to Parks Day Free family fun at Upper Kingston Park and Pratt Park in Prattville. Event will include Mayor’s Bike Ride beginning at 9:45 a.m at Upper Kingston Park, ending at Pratt Park by Stanley-Jensen Stadium for the Touch-A-Truck event which will be held 10 a.m.–2 p.m. For more info, visit www.prattvilleal.gov or call (334) 595-0854. Camp Grandview Girls Reunion It’s estimated that some 15,000 young women from around the south came through the gates of Camp
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C Grandview during the summers between 1960 and 1980, when it was an all-girls resident camp. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on May 21, camp girls’ alumni and their families are invited back to camp to share camp memories, meet old friends, enjoy camp activities, and have lunch. For more info, contact Bill Myers at 2909622 or bmyers@ymcamontgomery.org. Prattville Gigantic Flea Market 6 a.m.-noon. Doster Community Center. Clean up your closets and sheds and get rid of your unwanted, but good items. Guns, weapons, tobacco & alcohol CANNOT be sold. One booth per household. One booth per person. Limited space available. For info, call (334) 595-0800. The set-up for the May 21st sale is May 20 from 3-7 p.m. 38th Annual Jubilee Run for Cancer 7:30-10:30 a.m. The run starts and finishes at Old Alabama Town and benefits the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. For more info, call (334) 5586587 or visit www.jubileerun.org. Great Strides Walk Tipping Point at Hampstead. Check-in begins at 9 a.m.; the walk begins at 10 a.m. This is a fun, familyoriented event with a healthy 5k walk, children’s activities, food, and festivities to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. No fee to participate, but fundraising is encouraged. For more info, call (205) 870-8565 or visit fightcf.cff.org/site/TR?pg=entry&fr_ id=5068. Rosa Parks Museum Family Free Day The Rosa Parks Museum presents its first-ever Family Free Day from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with programs from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. In addition to the free admission, there will be a free quilting workshop with make and take art, storytelling, and music provided by the women of Gee’s Bend, Ala. For more info, call (334) 241-8615.
Sunday, May 22
F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADITIONAL WORSHIP 8 : 30 AM & 11: 00 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL 9: 45 AM THE WELL 11: 00 AM
www.prattvillemethodist.org
Corridor Opening: Learning Through Art -Through June 26 3-4:30 p.m. This exhibition in the ARTWORKS Corridor will feature the artwork of 140 third- and fourth-grade students from the Wares Ferry Road Elementary School, who have been enrolled in the MMFA Artist in Residence Program for the 2015-16 school year. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333.
Monday, May 23
Brunswick Zone Summer Bowling Deal Through September 5 Monday-Friday from open-8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from open-4 p.m. Enjoy 3 games per day and shoe rental all summer long. Only $23.95 for kids 15 and under; adult pass: $28.95. Visit bowlsummergames.com for details.
Thursday, May 26
Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of Montgomery invites all women of the River Region to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. Join us for a fun social and door prizes. Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, May 23, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com. ARTtalk 2016 at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Register now for this unique program, and get an up-close look at artists, their work, and the creative process! For each session, artists have the opportunity to bring a work of art to the Museum, show it to other artists and those interested in art, and receive friendly feedback about the work. Cost: $15 Museum or
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
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Calendar/Support Groups Montgomery Art Guild members; $30 non-members for the remaining ARTtalk sessions. E-mail edsecy@mmfa. org or call (334) 240-4365 for reservations.
Friday, May 27
Montgomery Symphony Jubilee Pops Concert 7-9 p.m. This free concert will be presented on the steps of the Alabama Archives and History Building in downtown Montgomery. Come early and bring your friends and family. Picnic baskets, coolers, lawn chairs, and blankets are all welcome. For more info, call (334) 240-4004 or visit www.montgomerysymphony.org/popsconcerts/.
Saturday, May 28
Farmers Market at The Shoppes at Eastchase All Saturdays through October 22 7 a.m.-noon. The grand opening of this 12th annual event will feature all vendors and festivities for the entire family. Shoppers will continue to find unique, local items such as organic produce, meats, milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads, fruit pastries, birdhouses and nursery plants. For more info, call (334) 279-6046 or visit www.facebook.com/ eastchase.
the event is very family friendly. Superhero attire is required, but we will have masks ($3) and capes ($7) for sale for those without costumes! Brush up on your superhero knowledge before you come! There will be checkpoints with trivia questions along the path. Preregistration cost: $15 per person, with a $40 maximum per family. Cost on race day increases to $20 per person, with a $50 maximum per family. All proceeds benefit a local family’s adoption. Register at www. lynchesloveadoption.wordpress.com. Sylvan Learning Center Offers ACT Cram Course Preparing for the ACT can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. Some recent studies have shown students who take a cram course just before the test are scoring higher. Sylvan now offers a four-hour cram course on the Saturdays before each ACT test date. Reading, grammar, writing, social studies, science, and math are taught by teachers who specialize in preparing students for the ACT. Students are also given test tips and insight on how the ACT is structured. Cost is $35. Call (334) 262-0043) to enroll.
Sunday, May 29
Memorial Day Celebration at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game Start time 5:35 p.m. Join us tonight for an early Memorial Day Celebration with 50¢ hot dogs. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.
Saturday, June 4
Superhero Fun Run/Walk Check in from 9-9:30 a.m.; race starts at 10 a.m. Fox Hollow Park, Montgomery. Course is one mile long, and
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March of Dimes March for Babies Walk 7-11 a.m. Baptist Health DeBoer Building, 301 Brown Springs Road, Montgomery. Registration begins at 7 a.m.; start at 8. For route info and more details, call (334) 277-6910 or visit www.marchofdimes. org/alabama/
May2016 Sunday, June 5
Harry Connick Jr. Performs at the BirminghamJefferson Civic Center Concert Hall, 8 p.m. Ticket prices begin at $42. and availability. Everyone must have a ticket. No cameras/ no video. Visit http://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 4588400.
Thursday, June 9
Lanark NaturePlex Family Scavenger Hunt A great night for family fun! Come at 5:30 to enjoy a BYODinner and stroll through the Discovery Hall. The gift shop will be open. Events begin at 6 p.m. Come out for a scavenger hunt on our 5+ miles of trails. Guests will team up and complete an evening scavenger hunt for prizes! Snowcones available (free). Location: Meet in the Main Hall. All ages. Admission $5. No RSVP necessary. For more info, contact Tyler Harris at tharris@alabamawildlife.org. Montgomery’s Capitol Sounds Concert Band Presents “A Summer Spectacular” Concert 7 p.m. at Saint James United Methodist Church in Montgomery. The Capitol Sounds Concert Band will perform “La Fiesta Mexicana” and feature Dr. Bryan Reeves on trumpet as the band pays tribute to Big Band artist Harry James. Also featured will be music by John Williams, including “Olympic Fanfare and Theme” as well as “Superman March.” Free and open to the public, but donations are gladly accepted and will go towards performances for our 2016-17 season, including our Children’s Concert and the Young Artist Solo Competition. For more info, visit www.capitolsounds.org.
Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com.
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MontgomeryParents “Parents in the Know, Know Montgomery Parents” The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
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Are Your Customers WOMEN? So Are Our READERS! We Offer SMART ADVERTISING! Call Today, 213-7940
Home Based Business Directory House Cleaning, Window Cleaning and Light Paint Jobs
Please call me for a quote on any of the above. I have previous experience in all areas, references, and am looking to work in the Prattville and Milbrook area. Please call Terri at 334-730-1748.
Mularz Turf LLC Full Service Lawn Care
Aerating/Top Dressing Core Aerating & “NEW” Air 2G2 Aerating Free Estimates
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Tele-Health Services
Horseback Riding Lessons
Dedicated, Result oriented, Resilience building. With 10 years of (Psychology) and Community Practice. My evidence-based approach to tele-health provide: Pro-social relationships, Self-efficacy and a Subjective state of (Mental) well being to Clients, Educational, Hospitals, Federal, State, and Local Government agencies.
Ages 4 and up! Advanced Certified instructor Safe horses and ponies Camps, after-school programs and more! Contact Anne Alan Jemison 334-663-2922 www.FairHavenFarmLLC.com
For rendered services under (Clinical Supervision) please contact: Genevieve Morris at genjiles@msn.com.
Piano Teacher
Saxon Lawn Service
Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome. 1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.
You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324.
Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors. Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.
TUTORING
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Call Alice Gwin at (334) 300-8350. Email dalice.gwin@gmail.com.
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BJ’s Cleaning service Move In, Move Out Residential & Commercial Construction Sites All with Quality and Reasonable Rates Call Betty Dennis, Cleaning Specialist at 334.303.2585 for a free estimate or email bjdennis46@yahoo.com.
Moore’s Confidential Services
Jackie’s Home Daycare
Quality childcare and education in a fun, safe, Christian environment.
Need Help with Credit Reports, Job Applications (Federal & State), Resumes/Cover Letters, Legal Forms, Background Checks, and Other Misc. Services? Email me: HelpIsHereAlabama @yahoo.com
Located in East Montgomery Years of experience Smoke and pet free/clean home Ages 6 weeks -10 years Call (334) 676-3136.
Cutie Patootie Creations
Let Cutie Patootie Creations take care of all your decoration needs. We do balloons, candy tables, diaper cakes, invitations, baby showers, birthday parties and so much more!
Naomi (334) 296-2055 or Facebook.com/ cutiepatootiecakecreations
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Tutus and Glitter Mobile Spa Parties
Let us create a Mini Day Spa in your living room. Our amazing spa & salon themed parties make every girl feel like a princess while giving them a chance to relax with friends or enter full diva mode! Call Candace (334) 676-0950 or TutusandGlitterSpaParties@yahoo.com.
Squeaky Clean
The Piano Man
No job too big or small. Clean/disinfect kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum, dust and floors. Over 13 years experience. Affordable pricing. 334.451.0052
Piano tunings, repair, and restoration. Active member of the Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. Call 569-9662 or visit www.pianoman.net/al
Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 9 years. Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183
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The FREE AD GUY knows that every business needs a few lucky breaks before it can become successful. That’s why he is offering more FREE ads to Home Based Businesses. In return, the FREE AD GUY would appreciate it if you would tell a friend about Montgomery Parents Magazine. If you’ll just help him spread the word about Montgomery Parents Magazine he’ll keep working for you and your business. If you have already run a FREE ad you can send a request to repeat the ad or make changes. Please understand but we will not accept any phone requests. For new Home Based Business advertisers, just send your information to: FREE AD GUY, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123, or freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com. The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.
Montgomery Parents I May 2016
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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.
Evangel Christian Academy, 49
Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 2
Evangel Church VBS, 23
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 28
Expedition Lanark-AL Nature Center, 43
Mrs. Sandy’s House, 101
FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 81
My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 19
First Baptist Church, 61
New Park, 9
Adventure Sports II, 29
First UMC, Montgomery, 34
New Testament Christian Center, 81
Alabama Christian Academy, 7, 73
First UMC, Prattville, 100
OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 55
AL Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front & Back
Fleming’s Martial Arts, 18
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 40
Alabama Dance Theatre, 79
Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten, 53
Patty Cakes International, Inc., 101
Alabama Partnership with Children, 51
Frazer Memorial UMC, 67
Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 40
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 45
Go Karting Montgomery, 46
Professional Pediatrics, 12
Ala State Middle School Band Camp, 79
Grand Reserve at Pike Road, 83
Pump It Up Party, 27
ASKIN/Synergy House, 101
Greengate School, 59
Riverview Camp for Girls, 44
ASU Continuing Education Camp, 41
Health Services, Inc., 63
R.O.C.K., 69
Assurance Driving & Traffic Safety Ctr, 27
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 20
AUM Early Childhood Center, 8
Hooper Academy, 55
Baptist Health, 4
Huntingdon Basketball Camps, 36
Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 22
Huntington Learning Center, 23
Bradford Health Services, 87
Inflatables of Montgomery, 50
Bricks 4 Kids, 101
Interscapes, Inc., 11
Camp Invention, 81
KLynn Ice Skating School, 30
Camp Success, 75
Kingry Orthodontics, 99
Centre for Performing Arts, 83
Kumon, 13
Chapman Orthodontics, 71
Learning Tree Child Care, 26
Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 89
Legacy Early Learning Center, 33
Churchill Academy, 35
Little Lights Learning Center, 85
Dentistry for Children, 30
Lori Mercer Photography, 56
Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 15
Macon East Academy, 39
Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 29
M.A.N.E., 46
Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 36
Mathnasium, 47
E & S Hobbies, 100
Vaughn Park Church VBS, 79
Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 21
Easter Seals Central Alabama, 21
Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 18
Montessori @ Mulberry, 17
Vaughn Road Preschool, 37
Eastern Oaks Church, 3
Montessori Academy, 31
Vishnu Dental, 22
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 50
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 99
YMCA Camp Chandler, 75
Rockin’ Jump, 64 Rolling Video Games of AL, 63 Saint James School, 1 Saint James UMC, 71 Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 65 Shade Tree Riding Stables, 77 Smiles Galore Parties, 52 Spacewalker, The, 49 Spotless Cleaning Services, 72 Success Unlimited Academy, 32 Sylvan Learning Center, 14 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 14 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 52 Trinity Presbyterian School, 25 Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 85
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The Jungle Book (2016)
Barbershop:
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C+ Sexual Content: A Language: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated The Jungle Book PG for some sequences of scary action and peril. For a second time Disney tackles the task of adapting Rudyard Kipling’s classic novel The Jungle Book for the big screen. In their 1967 version the studio used brightly colored animation and snappy tunes to tell the tale of a young orphan found alone in the jungle, rescued by a concerned panther and raised by a pack of wolves. This time around the story is being presented in live-action, with Neel Sethi playing the man-cub Mowgli, and a herd of humans using their best technical wizardry to bring to life a plethora of wild creatures. Their creative efforts are nothing short of spectacular! Partly because of the realism, and also thanks to a more action packed script, this 2016 production hits the ground running and seldom stops to catch its breath between scenes of peril. The biggest reason Mowgli is in constant danger is Shere Khan (voice of Idris Elba). This vengeful tiger informs the wolves that he will no longer tolerate the boy’s presence amongst the beasts and threatens to kill members of the pack if they will not surrender him. Realizing the only way to keep the man-cub safe is to return him to his own kind, the fatherly panther Bagheera (voice of Ben Kingsley) offers to escort the youngster to the closest man village. So after a tearful goodbye to his adaptive mother (voice of Lupita Nyong’o) the two begin their dangerous journey. Mowgli encounters many challenges along the way, such as separation from his protector, stampeding buffalo, the deadly embrace of Kaa the python (voice of Scarlett Johansson), kidnapping by monkeys and threats from an orangutan (voice of Christopher Walken) who calls himself King Louie, but behaves more like a mafia boss. He also faces some natural disasters (drought, floods, mudslides) and manmade hazards (a forest fire). Although moments of humor are included, like an opportunist bear named Baloo (voice of Bill Murray) who befriends the tike for his usefulness in getting honey, the life-endangering sequences will likely be too intense for little ones. If that describes your cubs, you may want to stick to the classic Disney cartoon until they are a bit older. For more mature audiences, who hopefully won’t be terrified by the scary characters and depictions of fighting, injury, and implied deaths, there are some great messages about the strength of working together despite differences. And thanks again to those amazing visual effects, this will be a thrill-filled rollercoaster jungle ride.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: C+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Barbershop: The Next Cut PG-13 for sexual material and language. If there’s one thing you can say for this third iteration of the Barbershop franchise, it’s consistent. Like the two movies prior, Calvin’s (Ice Cube) Chicago barbershop sits within the tense urban scope of the city’s South Side. And, like those previous movies, the establishment is full of hair grooming professionals, including some new additions. The wall between the barbershop and the beauty salon has been pulled down, allowing both genders to banter back and forth over interpersonal relationships, sexual matters, politics and -- the top trending issue in this script -- neighborhood crime. Shootings on the South Side have reached epidemic proportions. Now the city is threatening to block off streets to control the movement of gang members, but that will also hinder businesses who are already struggling to survive. Amidst the barbershop discussions, the cutting characters (who include stars like Common, Cedric the Entertainer, Regina Hall, Sean Patrick Thomas and Eve) hatch a plan to try and negotiate a ceasefire between two gang rivals -- each of whom are patrons of the shop. The tense confrontation manages to score an agreement for a gunshot free weekend. With the hope of promoting the plan to the rest of Chicago, these creative stylists determine to offer free haircuts for the entire 48-hour period. This movie deserves high marks for having a message that encourages other viewers to try to do something similar. And don’t think the crime portrayed in this script is an exaggeration. But as much as these real world issues are promoted in this film, there is still a priority on comedy -- and that creates an awkward combination. Nearly non-stop sexual dialogue covers subjects ranging from President Obama having a floosy on the side (a more derogatory word than that is used to describe the female) to a poll on whether a woman’s first priority in finding a man should be the size of his genitals. Profanities are plentiful as well, including the expected single use of the sexual expletive, along with frequent scatological slangs, crude anatomical terms and mild profanities. This is a movie that’s full of good intentions for engaging citizens in bettering their community. Although the dramatic moments come off a little forced and sentimental, they offer a positive discussion seed that families could use to help grow their own ideas. However, the desire to integrate crass comedy within this scope will likely cut these viewers from Calvin’s customer’s list.
What Parents need to know about The Jungle Book...
Violence: Teens in a high school environment become involved in a fight. Two teens are approached by gang members -- another gang appears that protects the boys and offers them money with the implication they will be expected to support this gang. Shots are heard in the street and occupants of the barbershop drop to the floor in fear. Many discussions involve gun crime in Chicago. Sexual Content: Female buttock nudity is briefly seen. Many scenes include sexual language, crude anatomical references and innuendo. Men and women are seen embracing and kissing. A female character dresses in bra-like garment that expose most of her breasts. A woman becomes interested in a married man and makes overtures toward him. Comedic remarks are made about sexual accusations of real people like R. Kelly and Bill Cosby. Language: A single sexual expletive is used along with frequent scatological slang, mild profanity and vulgar terms. Frequent racial slurs are heard. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink hard liquor at a bar. Other references to drugs, alcohol and tobacco use are heard.
The Next Cut
Violence: Characters are constantly in peril, from other species, drought and famine, natural disasters and forest fires. Some of theses portrayals are quite intense and frightening. Verbal threats are uttered, especially by a tiger who wants revenge on a young boy and is willing to kill anything that gets in his way. Animals fight one another and bite, slash, toss and crush each other. Some bloody injuries are shown. Violent deaths are implied, but details are obscured or not shown on screen. Monkeys kidnap a boy and a large orangutan threatens and chases him. A building collapses and crushes the creatures inside. A snake coils around its prey and prepares to swallow it. A character is stung by bees and nearly trampled by stampeding animals. Characters run for their lives. A baby animal’s life is at risk and the adults in its herd are grief-stricken. Sexual Content: A boy is scantily clad. Language: Mild name-calling. Alcohol / Drug Use: None-noted. Montgomery Parents I May 2016
What Parents need to know about Barbershop: The Next Cut...
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plan
1. Stay informed
2. Learn about basic injury and disease prevention 3. Look for the most current information on emergency preparedness 4. Create a family preparedness plan 5. Become familiar with the emergency plans of your community
prepare store essential items Water Food Can Opener First Aid Kit Flashlight
Radio Clothes Personal Care Items Important Documents
practice Practice and review your preparedness plan every six months Plan. prepare. practice.
http://www.adph.org
Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes typically lay eggs in and near standing water in items such as buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flower pots and vases.
Avoid the Bite! You can help prevent the spread of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases by preventing mosquito bites and breeding. For the most up-to-date information on Zika Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases in Alabama, visit www.adph.org/mosquito or call 1-800-252-1818.
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2016 LEARNING EXPERIENCES 7th Grade Trip to Huntsville/Nashville 8th Grade Trip to Washington D.C. 9th Grade Leadership Through Service Experience Regional College Trip National College Trip AP Art History Trip to NYC Senior Internships 10th-12th Grade Service Opportunities Hunger Awareness Service with Animals Homebuilding
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