make a good choice:
get moving alabama! GET GOING
Getting started with physical activity can be challenging but is possible. If you’re not used to being active, talk with your doctor first. • Find where physical activity fits into your daily routine and make time for it. • Take small steps towards increasing activity. • Start slowly. Change one habit at a time. • Get up and move every hour.
get together
Increasing physical activity is easier and more enjoyable when you’re not alone.
• Find a partner! Whether it’s a friend, co-worker, family member, or someone with similar goals. • Work with your partner to motivate and cheer each other on. • Find an activity that you want to do, not have to do. Choose an activity that’s fun!
• Physical activity is for everybody!
get ENOUGH
Any amount of physical activity is a good start! As your activity increases, remember: • Aerobic activity increases your heart rate and gets you breathing harder like brisk walking or rolling, dancing, and swimming. • Adults need 30 minutes of aerobic activity every day. 10 minutes at a time is fine. • Work all major muscle groups at least 2 times a week. This includes using a stretch band, weight lifting, push ups, and yoga.
get results
Physical activity improves your health by increasing energy, relieving stress, controlling your weight, building strength, and reducing your risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic conditions. • Track your progress. Log what works best for you using tools like a journal, pedometer, calendar, or phone app. • Expect slip ups or setbacks and don’t give up! • Celebrate successes, no matter how small!
• Household chores, gardening, walking your pet, and taking the stairs all count as physical activity too.
What are you waiting for? www.getmovingalabama.org
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2018! CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2018!
An education that opens doors An education that opens doors and turns dreams into reality. and turns dreams into reality. Saint James graduates will enter universities and colleges this fall—from coast to
Saint James graduates will enter universities and colleges this fall—from coast to coast—pursuing their life-long goals with a true foundation for success. coast—pursuing their life-long goals with a true foundation for success.
...We are committed to challenging and assisting students in realizing their ...We are potential committedand to challenging and assisting in realizing their individual preparing them for lives ofstudents responsibility, service, individual potential andand preparing them for lives of responsibility, service, – Saint achievement. James School Mission and achievement. – Saint James School Mission
Saint James School FOR PRE-K3James THROUGHSchool 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS 334.273.3021 Saint FOR PRE-K3 THROUGH 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS
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Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program. Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g
Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, Ask usorabout our Financial Assistance Program. national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded made available to students at the school. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
1 SJ01-39782 Parents Ad May 2018.indd 1 SJ01-39782 Parents Ad May 2018.indd 1
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Volume 23 Number 5
Columns
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8 Living With Children John Rosemond
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
14 Montgomery Education Matters
Got a Graduate?
Avoid the Summer Slide
Find eight great gift ideas your high school graduate is sure to love.
Great activities to keep their brains sharp all summer long.
by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent
46 Pike Road Education Matters by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.
49 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee
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52 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis
60 The College Years by Lee Gonet
64 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between
Summer Fun Guide
Activities abound in the River Region to keep your kids learning, while having tons of fun.
Time Out for Mom!
10 little luxuries to give yourself so you feel celebrated every day...not only on Mother’s Day.
Common Sense Media
66 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
82 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
86 Get This!
On The Cover Anna Kate Kyser is in 7th grade at Trinity Presbyterian School where she enjoys being part of the JV Dance Team. She also loves all kinds of art, especially sketching and drawing. Anna Kate’s parents are Christy and Kyle Kyser, Jr., and she has an older brother, Kyle, who attends Montgomery Academy.
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Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 90 Calendar/Support Groups 100 Mom to Mom www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Editor’sNote The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source I may not be a student, but I’m just as ready as my girls are for school to be out! We’ve all lost steam as the school year has drawn to a close and it’s time for a change of pace. I’m looking forward to slower mornings, later evenings by the pool and no worries about homework getting done. That being said, no parent wants their children sitting around like couch potatoes all summer, glued to their XBox or iPad. So it’s our job to incorporate ways to keep them active and even engaged in learning during summer. For our youngest, Grace, that will be in the form of day camp in our neighborhood, one overnight camp, lots of swimming, and a road trip. Our soon-to-be senior in high school, Anna, will be working full-time, keeping her busy most of the summer while she makes great money! She’ll take that end-of-summer road trip with us, too, and I look forward to concentrated time as a family exploring new places together. Have you thought through your child’s summer plans? If not, this month’s Summer Fun Issue has everything you need to get going. First, read Christina Katz’s article, Avoid the Summer Slide, where she shares ideas for keeping your kids learning all summer long through local activities. Following her article is our 2018 Summer Fun Guide, with pages and pages of art and dance classes, sports camps, educational day trips and so much more! You’ll find there is something for every child of every age, and all the details are included about registration and cost to help you make your decisions. Mother’s Day is May 13, and more than gifts, I look forward to a relaxing day and maybe a sweet sentence or two from my children. Since Mother’s Day only comes once a year, do you ever think about treating yourself during the remaining 364? In Time Out for
Montgomery Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Montgomery Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com
Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Robert Coggin, M.D. Richard Dennis Lee Gonet Mark Gregston Dr. Charles Ledbetter Christina Katz Pam Molnar Dr. Ann Roy Moore John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Maria Wiggins www.lolafineartphotography.com
Mom, you’ll find 10 little luxuries to give yourself throughout the year. Simple things like fresh flowers, time in nature, scents you love and warm baths are just a few ways we can pamper ourselves in the midst of motherhood. The month of May will be a milestone marker for many families as they prepare to graduate a child from high school and send them out into the world. It will be a bittersweet time of remembering and celebrating, with laughter and a few tears. If you are struggling to find that perfect gift for your senior, check out Pam Molnar’s 8 Great Gift Ideas for Your High School Graduate. From the practical to the creative, you’ll find just the right fit for your son or daughter. Have a wonderful May as we celebrate moms, graduates, the end of a school year and a summer of more relaxed schedules and ramped-up family time!
Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com
Associate Publisher Gena Hill Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities Stephanie Parsons, VP of Client Services (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com
Ad Design Tim Welch
DeAnne
Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell Member
deanne@montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Child Easily Distracted in School Q: Our son, age 8, did fine in school in first grade, but has struggled in second. We’ve taken your advice and not helped much with his homework other than occasional and brief “consultations.” He’s making average grades but his second-grade teacher – she’s fairly young, by the way – tells us that he is actually slightly behind in both reading and math. We met recently with the school counselor, school psychologist, and his teacher, all of whom recommended that he be tested for ADHD (they told us that he’s easily distracted) and a learning disability. We really don’t want to go down that road, but they’re making it seem like that’s the only responsible thing for us to do. What are your thoughts on this?
A:
I agree. You really don’t want to go down that road. In the first place, the fact that an eight-year-old boy is “struggling” in school and “slightly” behind in reading and math, yet making decent grades does not, in my estimation, indicate a serious problem. The bell-shaped curve – which schools seem to have forgotten (or conveniently ignore) – predicts that some otherwise normal (problem-free) children will perform below the academic mean. Private schools try to weed out children who will bring down their test scores; public schools cannot. So, in public school, one is likely to find a greater proportion of kids who “struggle.” Fur-
thermore, a disproportionate number of the kids in question are likely to be boys – and boys tend to be distractible. Two things jump out at me: first, that your son didn’t have problems in grade one; second, that the second-grade teacher is inexperienced. It may well be that your son’s struggles say more about her than they do him. I would be inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt and simply recommend that you hire a tutor – ideally, an older, veteran teacher – to work with him during the summer and bring him up to academic speed before he goes back to school in the fall. The simplest and most obvious explanation for a problem of this sort is usually the correct explanation; furthermore, the simplest and most obvious solution is usually the best solution.
Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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1/8/18 9:26 AM
Art Museum Flimp Festival
Agape’s Run for a Mom 5K/Fun Run
Agape of Central Alabama will hold its 8th annual Run for a Mom 5K and Fun Run on May 12 at Vaughn Park Church, 3800 Vaughn Road in Montgomery. This event is an effort to bring people together to honor the role of mom, featuring family-friendly entertainment, food and games. All proceeds from Run for a Mom will directly benefit Agape of Central Alabama and its mission to support women, children and families through foster care, adoption and crisis pregnancy counseling. Visit www.runforamom.org to register, volunteer, or for more info.
May 5 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Family-friendly day of fun featuring handson artmaking projects and interactive entertainment from BTW Magnet High School, a treasure hunt, the ever-popular chalk art contest, food and more! This year’s theme is Gulf Coast Jubilee. The Do-Dah Pet Parade will award prizes in categories based on costume creativity and the Gulf Coast Jubilee theme. Admission is $3/children, $5/adults and $15/family. Free to museum members, city and county workers, and active duty military and their immediate family. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/discover/ flimp-festival/ or call (334) 240-4333.
National Kids to Parks Day Celebration
On May 19, The City of Prattville hosts the Annual Mayor’s Bike Ride, Touch A Truck, and Armed Forces Day Veteran’s Awareness program in celebration of National Kids to Parks Day. The Mayor’s Bike Ride begins at 9:45 a.m. at Upper Kingston Park and ends at Pratt Park. Touch A Truck and Armed Forces Salute begin at 10 a.m. at Pratt Park by Stanley Jensen Stadium. For more info, call (334) 595-0854.
Family Fun at the Ballpark Family Faith Night May 11 * 6:35 p.m. A night of worship featuring a special pregame concert presented by Faith Radio! Churches and organizations can bring a group out by calling (334) 323-2255. Also, MAX fireworks after the game. Military Appreciation Night May 12 * 6:05 p.m. Join the Biscuits as we honor the brave men and women that serve our country! Come early for the special enlistment ceremony before the game for future members of all five branches of the military. MAX fireworks after the game. Kids Day Sunday/Bark in the Park May 13 & June 10 * 2:05 p.m. Every Sunday, kids 14 and under can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the final out presented by Coca-Cola. Bring your fourlegged companion to the game for free and enjoy special dog-themed promotions all game long. One dog per adult.
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For more info on any of these events, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.
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An Evening with Eagles
May 30 @ 7:30 p.m. Join us at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival for an evening celebrating American air power with stories of courage, innovation and resiliency from three aviation pioneers. Featured speakers are Gen. Lori Robinson, astronaut Dr. Guion Bluford, and Operation Enduring Freedom hero CMSgt Calvin Markham. Afterward, all are welcome to attend a dessert reception and shake the hands of all ten “Eagles.” Proceeds support the Gathering of Eagles Foundation efforts. For tickets or more info, visit asf,net or call (334) 271-5353. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
New Vision Summer Movies
(The former Prattville Promenade shows only on Thursdays, the former Chantilly 13 in Montgomery shows on both Mondays & Thursdays)
Montgomery Symphony Orchestra Pops Concert
May 25 * 7:30 p.m. on The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History lawn, 624 Washington Ave. Kick off Memorial Day Weekend at this annual outdoor tradition. Call (334) 3534726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov/. 10
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10 a.m. * June 4 through July 26 $4 includes ticket, 16 oz. drink and 46 oz. popcorn. June 4/7: Boss Baby June 11/14: Ferdinand June 18/21: Captain Underpants June 25/28: Rio 2 July 2/5: Smurfs Lost Village July 9/12: The Emoji Movie July 16/19: The Angry Birds July 23/26: Goosebumps www.montgomeryparents.com
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Wetumpka Depot’s ACTing Up!
Summer camp and workshop opportunities for area children and teenagers
Aladdin KIDS June 3-9 for kids entering grades 2-6 Sunday, June 3, from 2-5 p.m. June 4-8, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, June 8, performance at 6 p.m. Saturday, June 9, performance at 2 p.m. Tuition $130 including camp T-shirt. Based on the iconic animated film, with an Academy Award-winning score by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. Teen Intensive June 10-16 for grades 7 and above Sunday, June 10, from 2-5 p.m. June 11-15, from 6-10 p.m. Saturday, June 16, from 2-6 p.m. with Showcase at 6 p.m. Tuition $125. Workshop for Teens is designed to challenge the young actor to go beyond the “stage and the page.” Topics covered will be non-musical theatre scene work, musical theatre, choreography, costume and technical design. Program customized to student interest. Teens participating have the option to participate in the kids’ theatre camp (June 4-10) as staff interns. For more info or to sign up, call (334) 8681440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.
Annual Herb Day
May 12 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Old Alabama Town Living Block, 301 Columbus St. FREE admission. Lectures, demonstrations, children’s activities (10 a.m.-1 p.m. making, planting and coloring cool herbal stuff), student herbal art display in Grange Hall, music, vendors, expert gardeners and food for purchase. For more info, visit www.oathsblog.com/.
Music in May at The Waters
June 6-July 27 Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. All seats $2.
Sundays, 4-6 p.m. 201 Waters View Dr., Pike Road. Looking for a fun family event this spring? We’ll have LIVE MUSIC at The Square each Sunday. Bring your family and friends out for a fun afternoon! May 6: Doctor Ocular; May 13: Rachael Wilson; May 20: John Emil Music; and May 27: Anthony Oliver. For more info, call (334) 272-3200 or find us on Facebook.
June 6-8: Captain Underpants (PG) June 13-15: Home (PG) June 20-22: Everyone’s Hero (G) June 26-28: Penguins of Madagascar (PG) July 11-13: The Croods (PG) July 18-20: The Boss Baby (PG) July 25-27: Horton Hears a Who (PG) For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
Bedwetting Bedwetting is a common problem which many people are reluctant to discuss but can cause much frustration, anxiety, and embarrassment. It is defined as involuntary, unexpected urination during the night. It is also called nocturnal enuresis. This is considered to be normal behavior until age 6-7 years old. It occurs in about 15% of 5 year old children and declines to about 5% at 10 years of age. It is slightly more common in boys than girls. There are many reasons children wet the bed but the basic reason is genetics. A bedwetting gene has been identified so about 50% of the time there is a history of the mother, father or others family members also having this problem when they were young. Bedwetting is also influenced by excessive fluid intake late in the day, caffeine, not going to the bathroom before bedtime, and small bladder capacity. Other less obvious factors include constipation, diabetes, urinary tract infections, and even sleep apnea. Psychological conditions should be considered if the child has not had problems with bedwetting for some time then begins wetting. Bedwetting frequently occurs within 1-2 hours of falling asleep during the REM stage of sleep. Children who wet at night are com-
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
monly described as very sound sleepers and difficult to arouse. There is no cure for bedwetting, but there are several treatments that can minimize the symptoms. The first way to manage it is by watchful waiting. Children will almost always outgrow the problem on their own. The problem is that you never know when this will happen. Symptoms often resolve by 8-9 years of age but sometimes teenagers continue to have problems. Basic management of enuresis is to limit fluids consumed after suppertime, avoiding caffeine, and going to the bathroom when going to bed. Since they usually wet shortly after going to bed, some parents will also wake the child up 1-2 hours later and have them go to the bathroom again. More aggressive treatment can be used after age 6 in the form of a wet alarm. This is a device that has a sensor that is placed in the genital area in the pajamas or underwear. When the sensor detects moisture, an alarm sounds that wakes the child and stops him from wetting. Over a few months this can help the child be trained to hold his urine during the night. This treatment can be up to 60% effective. These are available on line at many web sites for a variety of prices, styles, and options.
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There are also several medications that can help control (not cure) bedwetting. Probably the most prescribed is desmopressin or DDAVP. It is a synthetic product of the hormone antidiuretic hormone or ADH. This reduces the production of urine during the night and consequently lessens wetting at night. It is a tablet that is taken every night at bedtime and will need to be taken for about 6 months. It is up to 60% effective. Another medication that is used is Tofranil or imipramine. This is an antidepressant. It is used not because the child is depressed, but it may affect the sleep pattern to minimize the wetting. However, the real reason it works is not known. It is also a tablet taken at bedtime and has about the same effectiveness as desmopressin. It does have some significant cardiac side effects if an overdose is taken so great care must be taken to keep it in a safe place. Finally, punishment for bedwetting should never be used. The child is not aware that he is doing it and is not doing it on purpose. Your child needs support, encouragement and love. Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys college sports with his wife Cathy who is an attorney.
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2600 Bell Road • Montgomery, Alabama • 334.277.6690 460 McQueen Smith Road • Prattville, Alabama • 334.358.6411 www. SmilesFromUs.com Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. J. David Stanley • Dr. R. Davis Denney • Dr. Robert H. Owen 13
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Reflections As I end my tenure as the Montgomery Public Schools interim superintendent, it seems fitting that I take a few moments to reflect on the past few months. My short time here has been productive and a learning experience. Here are a few things we have accomplished and some things I have observed. There is a focus on improving student achievement. This has been my top priority as interim superintendent. The staff and I have been working diligently on focusing our work on helping students learn. We have put an extra effort on the basics; reading, math and science. These core subjects are the
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
keys to student growth. There has also been an emphasis on helping students understand that their future depends on what they do now. No matter where they are, starting today and doing their best can help them reach their goals in life. There is a focus on safety and discipline. Unless the learning environment is orderly, it is difficult for teaching and learning to take place. There are new steps moving forward that will help the few students who are being a disruptive focus on their learning rather than looking for attention. New alternative programs are scheduled to be put in place during the next school year. We are very focused on ensuring our classrooms are conducive to learning. There are caring and talented teachers and administrators at MPS. While our teachers, staff and administrators are not perfect, it has been my observation that most are here for the
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right reasons and are working to move our students forward. We are also working to bring professional development to those who need it. We must have every employee from a part-time laborer to the superintendent pulling in the same direction – improving student achievement. There are good things in Montgomery Public Schools’ future – of that I am sure. Our Board, employees and the Alabama Department of Education all have the same goals in mind. Everyone wants our children to succeed and for Montgomery Public Schools to offer an education worthy of the capital city of Alabama. With the support of our parents and the community, it will happen. It has been my pleasure to get to know the outstanding educators and staff members of Montgomery Public Schools. I am confident that the team will continue to move forward under the leadership of the new superintendent.
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Montgomery County Schools
Lee JROTC Cadet Wins DAR Award
Lee High Air Force Junior Officers Training Corps Cadet Alexia Murry has won the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution Award. The local Anne Phillips Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution presented her with the award at a program at the Montgomery Country Club. Awards were presented to one college ROTC cadet and one high school JROTC cadet.
‘Book It’ Breakfast @ Bethany Christian
Bethany Christian Academy students in grades K-2 participated in a day filled with fun in honor of their favorite books. Activities included a “Green Eggs” breakfast and guest readers who captivated the pajamaclad students. Special readers included BCA’s Principal Mrs. Thorne, parents, grandparents and community activist Pastor K.K. Middleton.
Macon East High School Students Compete in Scholars Bowl
Macon East Academy recently competed in the middle school and high school divisions of the AISA Scholars Bowl hosted by Chambers Academy. (The middle school team was featured in the March issue of Montgomery Parents.) Tyler Watson led the high school team as high scorer for an overall 5th-place team finish at the District competition. From left are Travis Moody, Trent Watson, Tyler Watson, Spencer Lindemood, Bryson O’Malley, Nick Marshall and Will Desmarais.
STJ Learns Significance of Caring for Others
While learning the importance of caring for others, the children who attend the Saint James School after-school program, STJ WonderWorks, wanted to share their crafts with the community and help others. During the month of March, the pre-K3, pre-K4 and kindergarten students in STJ WonderWorks made crafts for the Diversicare Nursing Home, Taylor Road Dialysis Clinic, and the L‘Chaim League of Agudath Israel - Etz Ahayem Synagogue and Temple Beth-Or.
Montessori at Hampstead Visitors
On March 8, Montessori School at Hampstead hosted students from Lurleen B. Wallace Community College’s Child Development Class. The LBW students learned in class about Montessori educational philosophy and came to MSH to see that philosophy in action. They toured and observed classrooms, and also visited the farm and talked with Farmer Bill. MSH enjoys having higher education students visit to better understand the Montessori philosophy and materials. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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Montgomery County Schools
Blind Artist Inspires Chisholm Elementary
Chisholm Elementary students got a special treat recently with a visit from Ricky Trione, a blind artist from Fairhope who shared with them an art lesson and an inspirational message. Trione drew in a realistic style with pen and ink for a long time. After he lost sight in both eyes, he eventually discovered a painting method involving textures that allows him to continue to create art. Trione talked to the students, going to each one to ask what colors they were mixing to create new colors. Chisholm art teacher Tia Blackmon also told Trione about the strides she has seen her students make during the year.
Bear Students Wrap Storybooks For NICU Babies
Bear Exploration Center’s National Honor Society students have been working with Footprints Ministry for the last five years on projects to benefit families of babies in the neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU. The students recently wrapped gift bags of storybooks. Reading to NICU babies has many benefits, including providing a bonding experience and providing comfort for the babies by allowing them to hear their parents’ voices. Research also shows that reading to babies improves brain development and language skills. Teacher Lindsey Norred helped coordinate this latest project by Bear students to help NICU babies.
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Trinity’s Portis Named Regional BryantJordan Scholar-Athlete
“Eleven years ago, I was an orphan in Ethiopia. I was without a family, a home, and God. My parents—Cole and Joy—adopted me and gave me parents, family, a home, and a relationship with Jesus Christ. I literally would not be here today without them.” A standing ovation followed after Trinity Presbyterian School student Zoe Portis spoke these words as she accepted the United Methodist Children’s Home Scholarship at the Bryant-Jordan Achievement Award ceremony held in Birmingham on April 9, where she was named the Class 4A Regional Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete by the Alabama High School Athletic Association. Out of more than 150,000 student athletes in the state of Alabama, Portis was among the elite 96 athletes recognized at this program. Portis has served as president of her freshman, sophomore and junior classes. She now serves as the Student Government Association president. She has an outstanding cumulative grade-point average of 3.76 and is a member of the National Honor Society. She has lettered for the past four years in Trinity’s varsity basketball and soccer teams. “Some people come into your life and you are better off because of it,” said Trinity’s Varsity Girls’ Basketball Head Coach Blake Smith. “Their presence calls you to be something greater than you are. Zoe possesses that quality.” Portis also serves on the Leadership Board of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and is an active member of Morningview Baptist Church. She volunteers at Vaughn Road Elementary School, Montgomery Area Food Bank and the Montgomery Cancer Center. She will attend Samford University in the fall. Front row from left are Trinity Athletic Director Harold Hilliard, Varsity Girls’ Basketball Head Coach Blake Smith, Zoe Portis and Trinity Head of School Kerry Palmer; back row are college counselor Elizabeth Mosley and English Teacher Kathy Pirtle.
A PRIVATE PREPARATORY SCHOOL FOR GRADES K3 - 12 www.maconeast.net We are located just a few minutes east of Chantilly Parkway. You are always welcome, so please get in touch with our Admissions Office and come for a campus tour. We would love to show you around!
334.277.6566 15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, AL 36013
Scholarship opportunities are available. 19
THE OPPORTUNITIES ARE ENDLESS HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ARE A WINNING PART OF A COMPLETE EDUCATION.
Athletics play a big part on campus at Macon East with over 80% of upper school students participating in one or more inter-scholastic team sports. Team sports at Macon East Academy include: baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, golf, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Beginning in 3rd grade, elementary boys may participate in interscholastic football, and all elementary girls K3 - 6 may participate in cheerleading. Macon East has won numerous regional and state championships, and our coaches have received local and state recognition for excellence in coaching. We pride ourselves with an athletic program with a long-standing tradition of championship-level teams. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
The Rock Visits Local Colleges
Churchill Visits Little White House
Churchill Academy’s high school students spent a beautiful spring day in March touring The Little White House in Warm Springs, Georgia. Franklin Delano Roosevelt built the Little White House in 1932 while governor of New York, prior to being inaugurated as president in 1933. Churchill students had the opportunity to tour the grounds, museum and home, along with a visit to the warm springs that drew President Roosevelt to the area. Students ended the day with a picnic on the grounds.
As part of an advanced curriculum, the College & Career Preparation class from The Rock School visited both Huntingdon College and AUM’s Army ROTC. The day-long visit included campus tours, presentations by enrollment specialists and dialogues with respective student ambassadors. The aim of this elective is to increase awareness for our high school sophomores and juniors by presenting a range of occupational disciplines via four tracks: Career [resumes, cover letters, mock interviews, Career & Shadow Days], College Preparation [ACT prep, campus visits, financial aid, ROI], Military [National strategy, service roles, missions, organization, base visit] and Entrepreneurship [benefits of ownership, business plan development, and partnership with Small Business Resource Center]. Learn more about The Rock School by calling (334) 260-0984, finding us on Facebook or visiting www.rockwarriors.org.
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Catholic’s Blackwell to Lead Baseball in 2019
Montgomery Catholic announces changes for the 2019 baseball season. Athletic Director Daniel Veres has named Aubrey Blackwell, shown, as the head coach for the school’s varsity baseball program. Veres, along with Tony Hudson, who acted as head coach for the 2018 season, will assist with the team. “We had a challenging year after 2017 Head Coach Randy Nolen resigned for health reasons. Coach Hudson was willing to take on the program this year, and we appreciate his leadership,” Veres said. “I am very excited that we have been able to entice Aubrey to become our head baseball coach. Coach Blackwell is a huge part of our community, and we expect him to be here for a long time.” A college baseball pitcher at Central Alabama Community College and at Montevallo, Blackwell is not new to coaching baseball. He began his coaching career as an assistant baseball coach at the college and high school levels. He has nine years’ experience, including three years at Campbell University, and three at Montevallo, where he served as the pitching coach. He also assisted with varsity baseball and was the head JV coach at St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile for three years. “I am real excited about getting back to my coaching roots, working with our baseball team,” Blackwell said. “My calling is to work with student athletes and help them become stronger and competitive. This will give me the opportunity to dig in and stay at Montgomery Catholic for a long time. My wife is supportive of my taking on two sports, and we feel it is all part of God’s plan for us.” In addition to leading the baseball program, Blackwell will continue to serve as head coach of the Montgomery Catholic football program. Since 2015, Blackwell has led the Knights to a 2017 region championship and advanced to the second round of the AHSAA playoffs during the 2017 football season. With a season record of 10-2 and a two-year record of 18-5, he was named the 2017 Class 4A Coach of the Year by the Alabama Football Coaches Association, and most recently named a head coach for the AHSAA North South All Star football game this summer. Photo courtesy of Total Image.
GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME
Evangel Christian Academy Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education. Our desire is to help each child achieve their God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11
Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882
For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office
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Montgomery County Schools
TEA Christian Students Read Across the Gump
T.E.A. Christian Academy has implemented a Read Across Montgomery program. Already, students have read to the children at O.I.C., HIPPY of Montgomery, Hansel and Gretel, and Century 2000 daycare centers and will continue to add to the list.
ACA Students Serve the Community
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Montgomery Parents I May 2018
The sophomore class at Alabama Christian Academy recently flocked Montgomery and Elmore counties serving their communities. Students worked with organizations like Inner City Ministries, MANE, Montgomery Area Food Bank, Catoma Elementary, Elmore County Humane Shelter and the Elmore County Area Food Bank. These students enjoyed working alongside their fellow classmates to give back and serve others.
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Healthy Hearts Make Happy Hearts at BCA
Dr. Choona Lang was the guest speaker at Bethany Christian Academy during “Healthy Heart Month.” Lang’s expertise in the area of public health was evident as she taught the students about the importance of forming habits to insure heart health. Her presentation included a motivational song and plenty of audience interaction. BCA Eagles have pledged to be healthy and happy by taking care of their hearts.
Park Crossing Math Team in 2nd Round of State Contest
The Park Crossing High School Math Team has qualified for an invitation to the second round of the 2018 Alabama Statewide High School Math Contest. The team advanced based on its performance on the comprehensive exam. The second round was set to take place at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The second round contest is ciphering, a “Jeopardy”-style contest. There will be four rounds and 10 questions per round, including two geometry, two algebra II and trigonometry, four comprehensive and two team.
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Montgomery County Schools
LAMP Sends Delegation of Students to State Latin Convention
Macon East Headmaster Honored by Firefighters
Macon East Academy Headmaster and Coach Glynn Lott was recognized during the annual MEA Deer Hunt for his service to the school and ongoing commitment to serve the community by offering this unique fundraiser to trophy hunters throughout the country. He was presented with an official firefighter helmet from retired New York City firefighters and longtime participants in the annual hunt. The helmet had the number 343; which was the number of firefighters who lost their lives on 9/11. He was also given a piece of the Twin Towers steel, a sign of his steadfast friendship and camaraderie over the years. Ron Cammarata, Phil Gaurnieri, Gary Theriault, Brian Byrnes and Fred Crockett were active duty firefighters of Ladder 16 and first responders to the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001. Later that year, the group learned of Macon East’s unique fundraiser from a local church group who had traveled to NY to assist with clean-up efforts. They attended their first deer hunt in January 2002 and have been regulars every year since. Cammarata recalled, “The country was struggling to make sense of what had happened. We were struggling with the loss of friends and colleagues along with the long-term clean-up. I am not sure what we would have done if we hadn’t heard about the deer hunt. We consider Coach our guardian angel and we want him to know how much we appreciate him and what this deer hunt has meant to us.” Each year, hunters from all over North America travel to Cecil, Ala., to participate in the Macon East Deer Hunt, where local landowners and guides share the much sought-after Black Belt deer hunting opportunities of the River Region. The funds raised from this annual event go directly to the school’s annual budget and many hunters return each year to participate in the good old Southern hospitality Coach Lott offers. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
A delegation of Loveless Academic Magnet Program High students made the school and city proud at the State Latin Convention sponsored by the Alabama Junior Classical League. The LAMP students joined 430 students from 18 schools across the state at the convention held at Oak Mountain High. The convention included mock Olympic games, written and oral academic contests, a toga banquet, a game called certamen that tests knowledge of classical civilizations, a club fundraiser, games, door prizes and a dance. The delegation included delegation chair Evanthi Hettiaratchi, Emily Frances Marshall, Minkjung Cho, Priscilla Udomprasert, Banks Mitchell, Joe Gerard, Faris Hague and Ben Kim. Several placed in contests and otherwise distinguished themselves. In Olympic events, Hettiaratchi won first place in Tethys’ Task, or the Jug Hold. In academic events, Cho won third place in Vocabulary; Udomprasert won third place in Greek and Latin Derivatives; Marshall won third place in Roman Private Life & Customs; Kim won third place in Mottoes, Abbreviations, Phrases & Quotations; Hague won first place in Mottoes, Abbreviations, Phrases & Quotations; and Hettiaratchi won third place in Mythology. The club T-shirt designed by Katherine Walcott won third place. Cho designed and made convention souvenir buttons. Udomprasert and Cho manned the table to sell the buttons. Gerard and Mitchell advertised the buttons throughout the crowd and brought in many customers. Tori Smith conclude a successful year as state president of ACJL by presiding over the Constitutional Convention. Latin Club members now look forward to next year’s convention at Samford University.
Saint James Student Artwork Included in Exhibition Four students from Saint James School had artwork featured in the 2018 Alabama Statewide Student Juried Art Exhibition. The artwork included in the first round of the exhibition was selected from 357 entries from across the state. From there, only 54 works were chosen by the jurors to be on display in the second round of judging, which was held at the Shelby County Arts Council Gallery. The jurors were current college art professors at the University of Montevallo and the UAB Department of Art and Art History. The following Saint James students’ artwork was chosen for this exhibition: Jake Hastings: Painting; Amanda Grate: Mixed Media; Nathan Swanson: Mixed Media; and Jinwoo Kim: Drawing. Their visual arts teacher is Evelyn Shoults. Shown, Saint James Junior Amanda Grate was awarded Honorable Mention in the second round of judging with “Growing in Ravello.” 24
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Alumnus holding MIT Degree \ Science Olympiad \ Character Building Programs \ Music and Art
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Spark curiosity.
You want your child to be given the opportunity to explore the world around them. You want them to have an excellent guide. One who can inspire them to follow their natural curiosities. And spark the difference that will set them on their journey of academic success. This is Catholic. Montgomer y C atholic Preparator y S cho ol
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Grades K4 - 12
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Montgomery Academy Fourth-Graders Tour Local Landmarks
Alabama history came to life as Montgomery Academy fourth-graders embarked on their annual Landmarks Tour. Stops included the Capitol, the Alabama State House, the Alabama Department of Archives and History, Union Station and the Harriott II riverboat. The students also toured the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church and the workplace of Rosa Parks.
MEA’s Watson Named DAR Good Citizen
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Macon East Academy senior Tyler Watson was selected as a 2018 recipient of the DAR Good Citizen award from Montgomery’s Anne Phillips Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. This award recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism in their homes, schools and communities. Watson is an outstanding student, two-sport athlete, and serves as an officer and member of several school organizations. He was one of four Montgomery area award recipients during a luncheon at the Montgomery Country Club.
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Montgomery County Schools
Eastwood Celebrates Ministry of Headmaster
Churchill Visits Lanark
Churchill Academy Lower School students took to the great outdoors for a day at Lanark’s Alabama Nature Center in early March. Students had the opportunity to see the natural habitat of Alabama wildlife, while also experiencing hands-on interaction with some of the wildlife. Thank you to the Lanark staff for facilitating experiential educational experiences for the students of Churchill Academy!
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Eastwood Christian School Headmaster John Geiger was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in June 2017. This degenerative muscle disorder is aggressively attacking his speech, legs and hands, while he continues to serve, in his 18th year, as the school’s headmaster. On April 6, Eastwood Christian School hosted a Night of Music to celebrate Geiger, and to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. Past and current staff, faculty, families and students, who were estimated to number about 800 people, surprised the Geiger family with a celebration. This was an opportunity for many who have been inspired, mentored and blessed by John’s life and ministry during his years at Eastwood, and to express their love and appreciation. The secret event was planned for months and took place at Eastwood Presbyterian Church. The event consisted of an evening of worship, skits and testimonies. The concert concluded with hundreds of current students and alumni joining voices as they sang “In Christ Alone.” Many guests then assembled outside for a reception, where an Eastwood Warrior on horseback presented the ECS flag and a giant wooden W was set ablaze to celebrate God’s Warrior, John Geiger. For anyone who would like to contribute, the school has started a Go Fund Me page for the Geiger family to assist with current and future medical expenses. The page may be accessed at gofundme.com/ johngeiger.
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MA Students Chosen For Capstone Leadership Academy
Montgomery Academy sophomores Mac Main and Millie Stevenson were selected for The University of Alabama Honors College 2018 Capstone Leadership Academy. One hundred fifty outstanding high school sophomores from across Alabama who have shown an interest in leadership through service are selected to participate in this event. The purpose of the two-day event, which features dynamic speakers and group activities, is to give students the tools and the training to apply their leadership skills to opportunities in their own communities.
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ACA Inducts National Junior Honor Society Members
Alabama Christian Academy recognized the accomplishments of 26 new members of the National Junior Honor Society recently. The principles of the National Junior Honor Society include leadership, character, scholarship, citizenship and service. The new inductees are: Kathleen Andrews, Cole Barsukoff, Diffly Bird, Melissa Collins, Charlee Cone, Connor Cordle, Ashlyn Daly, Megan Davis, Abbie Grace Goolsby, Preston Hicks, Reagan Humble, Hayes Hunt, Clara Kim, Mason Kimbro, Boston King, Vivien Lin, Maya Mullen, Isaac Rine, Abby Russell, Emmett Sanford, Caleb Sparks, Laura Stokley, Thomas Sutterfield, Alyson Thornton, Reese Watson and Maddie Grace Wingard. Current National Junior Honor Society officers are Carson Horn, J.T. Moorer, Skylar Crews and McKenzie Turner.
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Academy Senior Wins Bryant-Jordan Award
Montgomery Academy senior Austyn Barnes was selected as the Class 3A, Region 3 Bryant-Jordan Student-Athlete Scholarship program winner. She was recognized at a state banquet held in Birmingham.
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Nixon Music Teacher Recognized by City, School District
Longtime Montgomery Public Schools music teacher Sandra Ware has been receiving a lot of well-deserved recognition recently. Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange recognized her as one of Montgomery’s unsung heroes, and not long afterward, she was named one of the MPS Employees of the Month. Ware has done plenty to earn both distinctions. Ware has been teaching in MPS for more than 30 years and continues to encourage and inspire students daily. She is well-known for her musical talent and passion, which leads to invitations for the E.D. Nixon choir to perform at events around the city. Over the last four years, Ware has not only directed the student choir but also an adult choir of faculty, staff and parents of the school. Many members were former students and were excited to follow her direction again. Principal Dana Williams-Gant describes Ware as a “priceless jewel” who works tirelessly to positively affect students’ lives, adding that her passion drives her to create young musicians. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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Holy Cross Spring Outreach Project Benefits ‘Footprints Ministry’
Holy Cross Episcopal School’s Spring Outreach was held recently, benefiting Montgomery-based “Footprints Ministry” and its Montgomery chapter. Coordinators Christy Cronier and Karen Redden were on hand to receive the items Holy Cross parents and students generously collected. While the project does branch out to help in some Birmingham hospitals, Cronier says that its primary focus is on the Montgomery area and our River Region of hospitals which include Baptist East and Baptist South. Footprints Ministry founder Kim Wilson began the project eleven years ago with Heritage Baptist Church. It is now also active in several other Montgomery churches. Parents who have a baby in the NICU have needs quite unlike other new parents. The Footprints Ministry houses families in their own “House of Hope” where parents can stay to be near and visit their babies who are not able to come home until a later time. The Footprints Ministry provides a receiving blanket for mothers to sleep with and then the nurses take that blanket to the baby and it is placed inside the incubator. With this blanket, the babies can bond with their mother by scent and receive a unique comfort that cannot be provided any other way. The Reverend Jamie Osborne, associate rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Montgomery, blessed the many items generously donated which included 157 receiving blankets, 375 packets of tissues, and a variety of other needed items.
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Macon East Lady Knights Receive State Champion Rings
The AISA AA State Volleyball Champions from Macon East Academy received their state rings following an exciting 32-3 season. With a new coach, Codi Moon, and a loss to Coosa Valley in last year’s title game, the team was determined to work hard and reclaim the state title after a crushing end to their five-year reign. With the three losses coming early in the season, the Lady Knights worked hard on and off the court to land in the final match of the year with rival school, Glenwood. In just three sets, the team defeated Glenwood and once again won the state championship, and these rings are proof of their grit and determination.
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Montgomery County Schools
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ACA Senior Earns National Writing Honors
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious recognition programs for creative teens in grades 7-12. Alabama Christian Academy senior Micah Williams participated in the writing division. More than 90,000 works were recognized at the regional level, and Williams was recognized for four works in January of this year. Two poems and a senior writing portfolio were awarded with Silver Keys, which meant they were exceptional works in the Southeast region. His short story, “A Rosemary for Us,” was awarded a Gold Key, meaning it was among the very best works in the region and advanced to the national-level competition. For nationals, more than 2,700 works earned National Medals. During spring break, the short story Williams wrote earned a Gold Medal, the highest honor. His story was the only short story in Alabama to earn a medal. Williams now has the opportunity to attend the awards ceremony at Carnegie Hall in June for his accomplishment, as well as have his story published in an online gallery.
MA Writer Chosen for Sewanee Conference
Montgomery Academy junior Mary Elizabeth Bullard will attend the Sewanee University of the South Young Writers’ Conference this summer in the Creative Non-Fiction Workshop. During the conference, she will meet several different authors and take multiple classes on the topic. To apply, Bullard had to submit several samples of her work, as well as write a Statement of Purpose about her life as a reader/writer. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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Saint James School Has Math Figured Out
Three Saint James School math teams swept District VI in the Alabama Statewide Mathematics Contest on February 24. All three math teams (Comprehensive, Algebra 2 with Trig, and Geometry) earned first place in District VI. These results also qualified Saint James for the second round of competition in April. In the competition, there are three contests: one for the Geometry students, one for the Algebra 2 with Trig students, and one for any student taking a course above Algebra 2 with Trig, called “Comprehensive” as it includes topics from all high school courses. District VI is composed of 14 counties surrounding Montgomery; it encompasses a large region of central Alabama. Schools are further divided into three divisions based on size and on how many courses they offer beyond calculus; Saint James is included in Division 2. On February 24, each student took a test of 50 multiple choice problems. The top four scores from a school are totaled to create the team score. Individual students are also ranked. In District VI, the Saint James School Geometry team took first place in Division 2; the Algebra 2 with Trig team took first place in Division 2; and the Comprehensive team placed first in Division 2. Within the Division 2 category, the Saint James teams performed well against their competition. The Saint James Geometry team ranked 8th in the state; the Algebra 2 with Trig team placed 2nd in the state, and the Comprehensive team earned 3rd in the state – all in Division 2. For individual rankings in District VI, several STJ students were ranked in the top 25% in the state (for Division 2), most notably, Gayeon Paek, who ranked 3rd in the state for the Comprehensive contest for Division 2. Paek also placed first as an individual in the district. Saint James took 4 of the top 5 places in District VI for Division 2 including Janice Cho, Nayoon Kang, Jin Kim and Paek. For the Algebra 2 with Trig Contest, Trevor Otis took first place as an individual, defeating all other students in the district for all divisions. He is also ranked in the top 15% in the state for Division 2. STJ had two other students in the top 5 for District VI, Division 2: Andrew Kellum and Jonghyun Park; Luke Kim placed 6th. For the Geometry Contest, Zach Ohliger earned 2nd place in District VI for Division 2 with Sidnee Beavers and Chelsey Craig also ranked in the top 5 for the district. “I am so proud of these students and their extraordinary work ethic,” said Vicky Eichelberg, Saint James High School Mathematical Department Chair. “For all three teams to take first place is a wonderful accomplishment. I am looking forward to watching them compete in the next round in April!” Front row from left are: Luke Kim, Chelsey Craig, Gayeon Paek, STJ geometry teacher Rhonda Jones; middle row: Nayoon Kang, Janice Cho, Sidnee Beavers, Jin Kim and Jonghyun Park; back row: STJ HIgh School Mathematics Department Chair Vicky Eichelberg, Andrew Kellum, Trevor Otis, Zach Ohliger and Chris Schiffer. (Not pictured, STJ Algebra 2 with Trig teacher Cheris Sherlin) 32
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Montessori @ Hampstead Receives Farming Goodies
Montessori School at Hampstead’s nonprofit partner, The Hampstead Institute, recently applied for and received a $2,000 grant from the Whole Foods Market Corporation’s Whole Kids Foundation to support the MSH Farm education program. MSH students LOVE farm lessons and they were very excited to receive a “goodie box” for new grantees from the Whole Kids Foundation. It contained organic seeds, a binder full of farm and gardening lesson plans and a great-looking metal sign for the school garden that celebrates this great community-based partnership! Farmer Bill and the elementary students had a great time installing the new signage out at Hampstead Farm.
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On April 15, the day after their prom, members of the Montgomery Catholic Key Club volunteered to walk dogs at the Montgomery Humane Shelter. The Humane Shelter is always seeking volunteers to walk dogs, especially on weekend afternoons, and donations of newspaper, cleaning supplies, and dog food. To help, please contact Cindy Chapman at cindychapman@montgomeryhumane.com. From back to front are Manny Caceres, Cole Pierce and Grant Walker. Also walking that day were Katie Perkins (regular Humane Shelter volunteer), Sofie Izer, Savannah Johnson, Lainie Doyle, Clare Wilson and Mitch Aaron. Montgomery Catholic’s Key Club sponsor is Jeanene Crenshaw.
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Catholic’s Key Club Helps Humane Shelter
SUMMER CLASSES Age 3 to Professional Level
Session I: May 29 - June 14 Session II: June 25 - July 12 Tutus & Tiaras! June 18-22 • Ages 3-8 Summer Dance Seminar • July 16 - July 30 Stars on the Riverfront • July 29 & 30 (334) 625-2590 • 1018 Madison Avenue www.alabamadancetheatre.com
at the Armory Learning Arts Center
Photo by Richard Calmes
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Montgomery County Schools
Macon East Kindergarten Kindness
Ellen Lawrence’s K5 class at Macon East Academy has been learning about the importance of kindness by practicing giving compliments to others. The class has been using its Amazon Echo to listen to examples of compliments and discuss how compliments make others feel. Room mother Amy Redoble recently visited her daughter Abigail and classmates and directed an activity in which each student picked a classmate’s name and thought of a compliment for that friend, then wrote it on a colorful heart. The students revealed their hearts and shared the compliments for their friends. The hearts were connected with the addition of a head to make a “Compliment Caterpillar.” The completed project was displayed in the hallway for others to enjoy reading and perhaps pass on a kindness of their own.
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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Park Crossing Team Advances in Mayor’s Cup
The Park Crossing High School Scholar’s Bowl team has propelled the school to the second round of the Mayor’s Cup Academic Challenge. Students John Solis, Owen Campbell, Seojun (Rachael) Hong and Christian Sanders took part in the event, which pits local high school students in a battle of the brains. The team is led by teacher Curtis Rice. Every high school in Montgomery is invited to send a four-student team to compete in the challenge. Park Crossing is one of four schools to advance. The others are Loveless Academic Magnet Program High, Booker T. Washington Magnet High and Saint James.
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Moving Up Day at BCA
The kindergartners at Bethany Christian Academy excitedly hosted the pre-K students from Bethany Childcare and Development Center. An “Open Arms” Open House for parents was a prelude for this special activity. Future kindergartners were able to tour the school, participate in classroom activities and enjoy lunch in the cafeteria. BCA kindergarten teacher Reggenia Baskin is eagerly awaiting the “Moving Up” pre-K students from the BCDC.
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Holy Cross Takes Dauphin Island Sea Lab Field Trip
Holy Cross Episcopal School sixth-graders always consider the Dauphin Island Sea Lab field trip to be a highlight of their sixth-grade year, and this year was certainly no exception. Weekend highlights included taking a trek through the salt marsh discovering first hand the community of organisms in this unique wetland habitat. They also enjoyed trawling in Mobile Bay and collecting and identifying organisms that inhabit the coastal waters aboard the DISL research vessel. Students even participated in a plankton lab and a squid dissection lab. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab program is an exciting, hands-on opportunity to discover and explore the wonders of Dauphin Island.
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Academy Senior Named Honors College Fellow
Montgomery Academy senior Martha Glen Sease has been selected for the prestigious University Fellows Experience at The University of Alabama Honors College. The University Fellows Experience, which admits approximately 30 students each year, combines a rigorous academic curriculum with civic engagement and is a community of elite scholars from diverse disciplines who share a similar passion to become change agents through a commitment to leadership and service.
Civil Rights History Comes Alive at Bethany
Dr. William Abernathy, nephew of the late civil rights leader Dr. Ralph Abernathy, visited Bethany Christian Academy and shared his family’s historical legacy. Abernathy captivated the kindergarten students as he highlighted events from a book written in honor of his heroic uncle.
272-8622 • FRAZER.CHURCH
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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Holy Cross Class Explores Geometry
MEA All-Star Basketball Players
Holy Cross Episcopal School thirdgraders are learning all about geometric shapes with a discovery of the principal geometric plane shapes in their early studies of exploring geometry. Teacher Kathy Black is demonstrating and creating 3-D shapes with her students and encouraging each student to explore, innovate and create! The shapes Black has introduced, such as square pyramids, triangular prisms and rectangular prisms, were designed to encourage her students to learn that 3-D shapes help both sides of our brain connect and help develop logical thinking in everyday life.
Macon East Academy seniors Logan Goree and Kyle Edwards were selected to play in this year’s AISA All-Star Basketball game. They helped lead the East team to a 93-74 win over the West in the All-Star game February 16 at the Montgomery Multiplex. Goee and Edwards have received numerous all-tournament and MVP awards throughout this year’s season, including all-tournament for Goree and tournament MVP for Edwards at the AISA AA State Tournament. At center and point guard, this duo led the Knights squad on and off the court all season and brought home a 2nd state title for the Knights. Both Goree and Edwards are pursuing continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
ACA Students Make All-State Band and Chorus
The following Alabama Christian Academy students were selected to be a part of AllState Band and All-State Chorus. Each student had to audition for entrance into each All-State program. Students making All-State Band include Micah Williams, Landon Holladay and Elizabeth Adornato. All-State Chorus members include Elizabeth Adornato, Jameela Broadie, Aidan Dickson, Landon Holladay, Nicholas Lacy, Gavin Lyle, Chad Moody, Cameron Strowbridge, Micah Williams, Tia Coker, Hayden Holladay, Katie McDonald, Sydney Roberts, Tyler Bradley, Landon Evans, Caleb Harris, Jalen McDade, Connor Strowbridge, Clara Kim, Katey Madaris and Emily Kate Sansom.
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Montgomery County Schools
Saint James School Junior Chosen for D.C. Youth Tour
Saint James junior Izabel Cabral has been chosen as one of four local students who will travel to Washington, D.C., all expenses paid, this summer as a part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Youth Tour. Earlier this year, Cabral was chosen as one of eight local students to participate in Dixie Electric Cooperative’s Montgomery Youth Tour where she joined students from Barbour, Bullock, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Pike and Tallapoosa counties. The application process was presented to Cabral through her guidance counselor at Saint James and she subsequently applied for the program with an essay and interview. Cabral and the seven other chosen students from Montgomery County spent March 6-8 touring the Montgomery monuments and historic buildings including the Capitol building, Civil Rights Memorial, the First White House of the Confederacy, and Martin Luther King’s Dexter Avenue Baptist Church. The students also participated in a variety of leadership programs, which emphasized the connection between local business and the legislative process. From the students who were chosen for the Montgomery Tour, four were chosen to continue to Washington, D.C. The 2018 Washington Youth Tour is sponsored in conjunction with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Youth Tour that is held every June. This week-long, annual event brings more than 1,600 high school students from across the nation to Washington, D.C. to meet with national legislative leaders and tour national monuments. The Washington Youth Tour will be held June 8-14. From these students, only two will be chosen to participate in the National Youth Leadership Council (YLC) with students from all over the United States. When chosen for YLC, the students are awarded a $2,500 college scholarship. Students who participated in Dixie Electric Cooperative’s Montgomery Youth Tour this spring included, top row from left: Jon Maddox, Adrian Thornton and CJ Nolen; middle row: Mary Vander Sewell and Jill Tagart; and bottom row: Tiara Williams, Harmonie Gachett and Saint James junior Izabel Cabral.
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Montgomery Academy Students Named Academic All Americans
The National Speech & Debate Association named four Montgomery Academy students Academic All Americans: at right from top, Pio Jung, James Torbert, Carter Chandler and Catherine Updegraff. This coveted award recognizes academic rigor, competitive speech & debate success and personal excellence. From more than 141,000 student members of the National Speech & Debate Association, fewer than 500 students earn the Academic All American award every year. This tremendous accomplishment places these students among the top half of one-percent of all student members across the country. This distinguished award recognizes students who have completed at least five semesters of high school; earned the degree of Superior Distinction in the National Speech & Debate Association’s honor society; achieved rigorous criteria for GPA and/or test score requirements; and demonstrated outstanding character and leadership.
Brew Tech Students Take on Outdoor Adventure at Lanark
Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School students took on an outdoor adventure with naturalists at Alabama Nature Center’s Lanark Park in Millbrook. The students were from the AP environmental science and AP biology classes taught by Aviance Turnbull and Mary O’Connor. Activities included creek seining to observe micro-vertebrates and using microscopes to examine the water micro-organisms. Some even used their smartphones to capture the specimens in motion under the microscope. This experience was made possible through an ANC School Outreach Scholarship and contributions from Staff Sgt. Barbara Flores of the U.S. Army Alabama National Guard.
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Nixon Students Place in Superhero Contest
A group of E.D. Nixon Elementary students showed off their superpowers and won awards in the Bertha Pleasant Williams Library’s “Hero Like Me” contest. Students were asked to create and illustrate a superhero in their likeness, complete with a name and superpowers. Each winner received a poster of their hero, and all entries were included in a large poster display at the library. The following Nixon students were awarded: Chelsea Reese, pre-K winner; Crystal Walton, third grade, honorable mention; Zamiyah Sellers, third-grade winner; Trevon Toles, third grade, honorable mention; and Felicity Jones, fourth-grade winner.
Churchill Student Places in Golf Tournament
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Wynlakes Country Club served as the host location for the Longshore Golf Tournament on March 22. In this unified play annual golf invitational, qualifying Special Olympics golfers and golf partners hit the greens for a beautiful and challenging day of golf. Churchill Academy 3rd-grader Drake Arden and his partner, Robby Bice, won 2nd place in their division for 2018. Arden will compete in Alabama’s Special Olympics State Games at Troy University in May.
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HOLY CROSS ADMITS STUDENTS OF ANY RACE, RELIGION, AND NATIONAL OR ETHNIC ORIGIN. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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STJ’s Claudia Hubbard Named Overall DAR Good Citizen for Local Chapter Francis Marion Chapter, NSDAR, honored its high school Good Citizen recipients with a luncheon at the Montgomery Country Club on April 11. The students, their parents and counselors, along with members of the DAR chapter, enjoyed the luncheon and the ceremony following. The students were chosen by their high schools as DAR Good Citizens, an award given to one student at each of the sponsored schools for their scholarship, leadership, involvement in school and community activities, and overall qualities exhibiting patriotism and good citizenship. Winning students are given the option to participate in an essay contest on a topic chosen by the NSDAR and kept secret until the time the essay is written. The essay must be written in a timed sitting, overseen by the college counselor or a school administrator, with no resource materials but a dictionary. All four of the students chose to write the essay this year. The essay, along with school transcripts and accompanying material, is then judged on a point basis by a non-DAR panel to select an overall winner from each chapter. That winner’s essay and accompanying material is then entered in the next level of judg-
ing, at the district level. From the district level a winner is chosen to enter the State level, on up to the national level. DAR scholarships are given at these highest levels. Four students from area schools were named DAR Good Citizens with senior Claudia Hubbard, from Saint James School, daughter of Sabrina and Bryan Hubbard, the overall winner from the Francis Marion Chapter. Francis Marion DAR Regent Andrea Cartwright Harris presided over the ceremony where the students were invited to share their high school experiences and plans for the future. Hubbard read her winning essay to the gathering. The students were each given a certificate, a pin, and a check. Saint James School was given a framed print of the signing of the Constitution, in Hubbard’s honor.
Hubbard is shown with Saint James High School Counselor Jamie Payne, at the Francis Marion Chapter, NSDAR, luncheon on April 11.
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Montgomery Academy Chorus Earns First Place in National Contest
The Upper School Chorus from Montgomery Academy competed in the Heritage National Choral Competition in New York City in April. The Upper School Chorus earned first-place honors and the Chamber Chorus earned third-place honors! Choirs from 14 states participated in this event. The Upper School Chorus is under the direction of Dr. Damion Womack and accompanied by Meg Griffin.
Bethany Hosts Author DeCorey Hale
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Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Author DeCorey Hale visited Bethany Christian Academy and read his book entitled Ebenezer the Sneezer to eager, listening kindergartners. An additional treat was the gift of an autographed copy of the book for each “Kutie K.� The gift was made possible by Aretha Dix, a BCA parent, volunteer and faithful supporter.
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MEA Performs at Wesley Gardens
The kindergarten through sixth-grade classes from Macon East Academy visited Wesley Gardens Assisted Living on February 15, where they sang some of their favorite chapel songs and recited Bible verses about love. The students presented residents with Valentine cards, heart-shaped cookies, and gift bags. Students were so happy to take their message of love and caring to the residents and staff at Wesley Gardens. The retirees and students alike were blessed by their time spent visiting and exchanging hugs.
ACA Crowns Miss Montala and Miss Junior Montala
Each year Alabama Christian Academy holds the Annual Miss Montala pageant. The theme for this year’s pageant was “Hollywood, A Night with the Stars.” The pageant consisted of a middle school category and a high school category. Blair Davis was crowned Miss Junior Montala. She also received Miss Congeniality and Best Self-Intro. Charleston “Blair” Davis is the daughter of Sonny and Melinda Davis. She is in the eighth grade and has attended ACA since K-4. Davis is a member of National Junior Honor Society, the Middle School Student Government Association, and the Middle School Cheer Team. She has also received the President’s Award for outstanding academic achievement. Mandy Gregory was named People’s Choice and Best Dressy Attire. Cheyenne Ellison won Best Opening Number. Senior Morgan Vogel was name Miss Montala 2018. She was also awarded Best Formal Wear. Morgan Leigh Vogel is the daughter of Marsha and Robert Vogel. She has also attended ACA since K-4. Vogel is a member of Key Club, as well as Model United Nations, where she was chosen as the first-place best delegate. She is the “Pin-itForward” recipient and UCA All-American for varsity cheerleading. Vogel earned fourth place at the state varsity golf tournament in 2015 and has received the President’s Award in ninth and tenth grade and the Principal’s Award in eleventh grade for high academic achievement. Also, her class selected her as homecoming attendant in tenth grade. 1st runner-up was Emily Jones and 2nd runner-up was Lucy Crosby. Top Eight was Lucy Crosby, Hannah Guy, Hayden Holladay, Emily Jones, Sydney Roberts, Carli Schofield, Regan Patterson and Morgan Vogel. Crosby was named Miss Congeniality and Karen Blanchard won People’s Choice.
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Roby Congratulates 2018 Congressional Art Competition Winner
U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) congratulated Montgomery student Christine Choi upon being selected as the winner of the 2018 Congressional Art Competition in Alabama’s Second District. Choi is currently a junior at Saint James School. Her winning piece, titled “Silly,” was created using linoleum prints with varying values of ink. It will be displayed in the United States Capitol building for one year. “We have so many talented students throughout our district, and I am thrilled to congratulate Christine for this outstanding achievement,” Representative Roby said. “The annual Congressional Art Competition celebrates the importance of art and provides a great opportunity for students in our community to showcase their talents. I am pleased to join Christine’s family and friends in recognizing this fantastic honor, and I look forward to seeing her work displayed in the United States Capitol.” Every spring since 1982, members of Congress have sponsored this high school art competition in their respective districts. All entries must be original in concept, design, and execution. Since then, over 650,000 high school students have participated in this nationwide competition. From left are Roby, Choi and Saint James Visual Arts teacher Evelyn Shoults.
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Brew Tech Fills Top Spots in City’s Youth Government
Brewbaker Technology Magnet High Youth in Government Club students got a taste of city leadership recently. Austin Smith served as Montgomery’s Youth Mayor, and India Richardson served on the City Council. They were taking part in the YMCA Youth in City program, which is the oldest in the state. The program brings together Montgomery students in grades seven through 12 to debate ordinances they have written. Brew Tech junior Jonathan Bond’s ordinance calling for a high school student to be on the school board was selected as Best Ordinance of 2018.
Montgomery Catholic’s Corbin Receives Grand Recognition through Duke TIP Program
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School announces five middle school students who have earned State Recognition for their ACT scores by the Duke Talent Identification Program, one of which received Grand Recognition (one of only 1,600 nationwide). The Duke University Talent Identification Program (Duke TIP) identifies academically talented seventh-grade students in sixteen states across the Southeast, Midwest and Southwest who have scored at the 95th percentile or above on standardized achievement tests. Montgomery Catholic had 18 middle school students who qualified to participate in the Duke TIP Program last fall with five students whose high scores qualified them for state recognition. Montgomery Catholic students who will be honored at the Duke Talent Search State Recognition Ceremony are Michael Algarin, Andrew Bosch, Cade Corbin, Matthew Galvin and Thomas Giere. Corbin, shown, will be invited to travel to Duke University to receive his Grand Recognition medal in May. He is the son of Rebecca and Chris Corbin of Montgomery. Galvin and Bosch qualified for Academy for Summer Studies and Algarin, Corbin and Galvin qualified for Center for Summer Studies. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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Alabama National Guard Visits MPACT for Citizen Soldier Day
The Alabama National Guard held its annual “Citizen Soldier� recruitment day at Montgomery Preparatory Academy for Career Technologies. This is the second year the Guard has hosted a recruitment day at MPACT. Students met members of various units from around the state and were able to see and handle equipment used by these units. Students learned of the different units and career opportunities, as well as benefits from training opportunities, insurance and educational benefits. Soldiers from medical, transportation, combat sustainment, military police, Infantry, artillery, chemical, civil support and recruiting made a very lasting and informative impact on the students at MPACT. Many students said they saw the benefits of joining the National Guard and were seriously considering enlisting. MPACT thanks the Alabama National Guard for its support and service and looks forward to continuing its partnership in supporting our students.
The Rock Visits Maxwell-Gunter Annex
The Rock School College & Career Planning class visited the USAF Enlisted Heritage Hall at Maxwell AFB-Gunter Annex. Students received a guided tour, learning of Air Force enlisted history, celebrity veterans and Medal of Honor recipients. This visit culminated the Military track of the elective; other tracks are Career Awareness, College and ACT Prep and Entrepreneurship. For renrollment information, call (334) 260-8808 or schedule a tour via www.rockwarriors.org.
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As Pike Road Schools prepare to welcome our first high school juniors next school year, we are excited to announce that we will offer 6 new Advanced Placement (AP) courses to high school learners in 2018-19 and expanded AP offerings in the future. In partnership with A+ College Ready and as a grant recipient to defray the costs, these courses will provide intensive instruction and result in increased future opportunities for our learners. We are continuing to work to make sure our students understand that high school graduation is one step on the road to success, and not the finish line. As such, we are preparing them for future success in life and to have a foot in the next door. We are working hand-in-hand with the Town of Pike Road to ensure that our
growing student body has the resources and facilities conducive to excellent and innovative education. We look forward to the next stages of development of the Patriot Park educational and recreational complex, which will include classrooms, non-traditional learning spaces and the beginnings of athletic facilities for our students. We are proud of all that our learners and lead learners have accomplished this spring. The JV Boys Soccer Team captured an UNDEFEATED SEASON! with a final record of 10 wins, 0 losses, and 2 draws! After a 1-1 draw against Houston Academy, the Patriots rallied from behind against Northview High School to claim a 1-1 result, thanks to a superb finish by Carson Fike. The Lady Patriots capped off an impressive inaugural season with a 4-0 win against Houston Academy and a loss against 6A Northview High School. In the win against Houston Academy, Eva Neuenschwander and Jada Roberts scored their first career goals and Marissa Hall added two more. Among other milestones, the Pike Road Tennis program got off to a great start this season and the golf program did as well.
The Patriot track team competed around Alabama and represented Pike Road proudly. The 2018 Pike Road High School Baseball Team had a great year this year finishing 17-5 on the season. Coach Skipper Jones and Coach Josh Clark did a great job with the team this year. Coach Brooke Watson and the Pike Road softball team had a very successful season, and are looking forward to next season and our first opportunity to be part of the playoff system. The Pike Road Elementary School Robotics Team has qualified to compete with students from all over the world in the VEX Robotics World Championship competition in Louisville, Kentucky. We look forward to what the future brings for Pike Road Schools! Go Patriots! Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 28 years. He has earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Chuck Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his ninth year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.
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Pike Road Holds Autism Awareness Parade
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Thanks to everyone for your help in making the PRS Autism Awareness Parade a success on April 18. All of the kids had a great time celebrating our differences!
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Future Patriot Basketball Camps
Pike Road Schools Basketball Coach Ken Klinger and members of the PRHS basketball team will host three Future Patriot basketball camps this summer. Take advantage of this opportunity to engage your children in what athletics offer: exercise, teambuilding and more! Dates include: Girls & Boys in rising 3rd-6th grades: May 29-June 1 (must register by May 18.) Girls & Boys in rising 3rd-6th Grades: July 2-July 3 (must register by June 21.) Girls & Boys in rising K-2nd Grades: July 5-July 6 (must register by June 21.) Times: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (3rd-6th grade camps) 9 a.m.-noon (K-2nd grade camp) Location: Patriot Gymnasium, 500 Avenue of Learning, Pike Road To register or for more info, visit www.pikeroadschools.org/.
Pike Road Soccer Teams Finish Strong Season
Class Collaborates on Book for Playground Funds
Mrs. Collins and several learners have collaborated to create a hardback book titled Good Night Pike Road and are now selling the books to fundraise for Pike Road Elementary School playground improvements! If you’d like to know more, visit https://youtu. be/vNxSUgpwubc. If you’d like to order the book, visit https://pikeroadal.csiepay.com/Main.aspx and then scroll down to choose Pike Road Elementary School and then Goodnight Pike Road Book Sales.
The Pike Road junior varsity boys’ soccer team captured an UNDEFEATED SEASON with a final record of 10 wins, 0 losses and 2 draws! After a 1-1 draw against Houston Academy during the final tournament, the Patriots rallied from behind against Northview to claim a 1-1 result, thanks to a superb finish by Carson Fike. The Lady Patriots capped off an impressive inaugural season with a 4-0 win against Houston Academy and a loss against 6A Northview. In the win against Houston Academy, Eva Neuenschwander and Jada Roberts scored their first career goals and Marissa Hall added two more. Thanks to everyone who supported Patriot soccer this year!
PRHS Science Class Uses Socratic Seminar
Seventh-grade science students participated in a Socratic seminar where they discussed genetic technologies such as cloning, genetic engineering, and selective breeding. 47
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Pike Road High School Participates in Youth in City
Pike Road High School representatives are shown with their teachers at YMCA Youth in City Government-Pike Road.
Pike Road Robotics Flamingos Head to World Championship
Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone had a chance to meet the Pike Road Schools Robotics Flamingos, one of the robotics teams at PRS. Together, they discussed their vision for moving their team forward. The Flamingos even gave Mayor Stone a lesson on how to drive their robot - but he needs a little practice before qualifying for the Vex Robotics World Championship the way these students did. Congratulations, Robotics Flamingos, and thank you to the dedicated teachers and administrators, like Robotics Flamingos leader Catherine Kenny, who opens the door for awesome learning opportunities like these.
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This is an exciting time for parents and students alike. It is truly hard to believe that graduation is upon us once again! The year has flown by! My hope for all graduates of Autauga County Schools is that they will believe in their own futures and go after their dreams. 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 graduation ceremonies, so you can start your planning. Autaugaville – 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 25th at the Davis Theatre Billingsley – 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 24th at the Billingsley School Gymnasium
Marbury – 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 24th at the Auburn University Montgomery Gymnasium Prattville – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 24th at the Alabama State University Dunn Oliver Acadome The safety of your child has been my number one priority since my time began as principal at Prattville Junior High School. As PJHS principal, I promised all the students three things every morning over the intercom: a clean school, a fun school, and a safe school. After the horrible incident in Florida, I feel I must do everything possible to improve safety. We have offered to partner with the City of Prattville and the Autauga County Commission to provide eight school resource officers for our schools with the Autauga County Board of Education providing half of the funding. Next, we are exploring non-lethal means for our teachers to defend themselves during an active shooter situation. We have discovered a system that, with the touch of a teacher’s index finger, immediately notifies 911, local law enforcement, and adminis-
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trators. This would be an excellent way to immediately notify authorities during an emergency. Finally, the board has approved various safety upgrades at each school. The upgrades include: additional cameras, outside lighting, improved monitors, fencing, and many other improvements. I will do everything I can to make our schools as safe as possible. Speaking of school safety, congratulations goes out to Pine Level Elementary School for being the only elementary school in Alabama to win the Alabama School Safety Initiative Award of Excellence. Principal Christen Harry and her staff work tirelessly to keep PLES safe, and this prestigious award validates all their effort. Fantastic job! We have had a great school year, and I hope everyone has a terrific summer! Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.
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Prattville Christian Academy Student Clears Cross Country Trail for Eagle Scout Project
Prattville Primary Welcomes New Administrators
A special welcome to Holly McNider, who became the new principal of Prattville Primary School in December 2017. McNider was the assistant principal for 10 years at Daniel Pratt Elementary. Since December, she has made positive changes to PPS, and she has great ideas to move the school forward. McNider’s motto is “Add Value.” Joseph Cochran became the assistant principal in March of this year. He came to PPS with excitement, enthusiasm, energy and good work ethics. Cochran taught in the Shelby County School System, but he is originally from Montgomery.
Prattville Christian Academy eighth-grader Austin Jeffery is clearing a wooded trail on the school’s campus as his Troop 111 Eagle Scout project. The trail will be used for cross-country training, athletic conditioning, and Bible classes. The project is a partnership between Jeffery, Prattville Christian Academy, Messiah Church, Hunter Hills Church, and Trinity United Methodist Church. The trail is located behind PCA’s baseball and football fields and crosses onto land provided by Messiah Church. “The trail will be a safer alternative for student-athletes as it will keep them from having to run alongside and cross over the heavily traveled Old Farm Lane,” said Jeffery. “It will also be used as a walking path for students to connect with God’s creation.” Jeffery, along with PCA’s outdoor classroom program and other volunteers, will expand the trail from its current length of .75 miles to 3.2 miles - the distance of a 5K. He has opened the service project to other student organizations on campus as well as fellow Boy Scouts to earn required service hours. Clearing of the trail began in March and Jeffery predicts that it will be completed by the start of the new school year. “I am very proud that Austin joined our cross-country team this year and decided to take on this project,” said Ken Lantz, PCA’s cross-country coach. ”It has been my desire for many years to have a safe place for our team to practice on or near our campus. I am looking forward to the possibility of hosting our first cross-country meet that will utilize this new trail along with PCA’s existing Outdoor Classroom trail.” Jeffery is shown standing at the head of PCA’s newly cleared cross-country trail.
Prattville Primary Strives to Become ‘Leader in Me’ School
Marbury Senior Signs Basketball Scholarship
Prattville Primary School faculty and staff are excited to begin the implementation process of becoming a Leader in Me school. Principal Holly McNider, along with our school counselor and several teachers, were able to visit Vincent Elementary School in Shelby County as well as Hueytown Elementary in Jefferson County. These two schools serve as Lighthouse Schools for the Leader in Me process and much was gained from our visits! Currently, our staff is going through a schoolwide book study of The Leader in Me book. Our entire staff will go through in-depth training this summer in order to be ready to implement the 7 Habits from Leader in Me that stem from the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, for the upcoming school year.
Marbury High School senior Artasia “Tay” Cannon signed a basketball scholarship to Meridian Community College in Meridian, Miss., in front of her family, friends, teammates and coaches on April 16, in the Marbury High School media center. Cannon has earned many accolades this season. She has been selected as a 1st Team All-State Basketball Player, one of the top three 5A girl basketball players in the state, and a finalist for the Miss Alabama Basketball Award. She was also recognized as the Region 3 Bryant-Jordan Achievement Award Winner. Her coach is Reginald Brown. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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Prattville Primary School Career Fair
On April 18, a Career Fair was held in the auditorium at Prattville Primary School. Several community volunteers and parents talked to our first- and second-grade students about their jobs, and the importance of education. Prior to the Career Fair, students were given an opportunity to visualize what they would like to be when they grow up through pictures taken by Project Visions.
Prattville Student Leaders Give Back at Prattville Medical Park
Students from the Autauga County Technology Center (ACTC), leaders from the Prattville Chick-Fil-A and volunteers recently installed the “Garden of Hope” at the Prattville Medical Park, just outside the windows of the Montgomery Cancer Center’s wing. The garden was designed for cancer patients to enjoy while they are undergoing their treatments, complete with a student-made mosaic, representing the Baptist cross. A dedication ceremony was held April 19 in the garden at the Medical Park. According to Business Education teacher Ivy Johnson at the Autauga County Technology Center, the Academy applied for a Chick-Fil-A Microgrant to fund the Impact Project and received a grant for $1,000. Students chose to create the “Garden of Hope” with the funds. The garden was installed with the design of the student leaders in mind for the enjoyment of the patients of the Medical Park. Hard Rock Hill, LLC is donating decorative granite rocks to enhance the Garden of Hope; Autauga County Master Gardener Association provided garden design support and Baptist Health Explorers Program are providing student volunteers for the installation. The garden was originally planted by Leadership Autauga County. The ACTC welding program designed a metal arbor and students in the Human Services Program are creating quilts for cancer patients. More info can be found at www.chickfilaleaderacademy.com.
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C We have had a very busy spring, and I would like to share some of the exciting things happening across our school system! First, I want to recognize each of our school-level Teachers of the Year for the 2018-2019 school year: Claire Stephenson, Eclectic Elementary; Debbie Kendrick, Eclectic Middle (5th-6th grade) and Walter Porter (7th-8th grade), Eclectic Middle; Mary Jones, Elmore County High; Elizabeth Reed, Holtville Elementary; Nicholas Carlisle (5th-6th grade) and Rachel Jones (7th-8th grade), Holtville Middle; Jennifer Daniel, Holtville High; Debra Murphy, Coosada Elementary; Daphne McClendon, Airport Road Intermediate; Susan Barnes, Millbrook Middle (5th-6th grade) and Melissa Nelson (7th-8th grade), Millbrook Middle; Rebecca Bowers, Redland Elementary; Karen Shepherd, Wetumpka Elementary; Sallie Pendergast, (5th-6th grade) and Lee Howard (7th-8th grade), Wetumpka Middle;
David Rowe, Wetumpka High School; Ken Spivey, Elmore County Technical Center; Tonia Caton, Elmore County Alternative Programs. A panel of judges reviewed the extensive application packets and selected Sallie Pendergast, Wetumpka Middle School, as Elementary Teacher of the Year and Jennifer Daniel, Holtville High School, as Secondary Teacher of the Year. Two students were recently recognized in the state-wide Bryant Jordan Student Athlete Program. Todd Buck, Holtville High School, was the Class 4A Scholar Athlete, and Emily Pinkston, Wetumpka High School, was the Class 6A Scholar Athlete and received the McCollough Medical Scholarship Award. The Wetumpka High School STEAM Machine is in its 13th year. This group of over 80 students has accumulated a record-setting number of awards. The STEAM Machine now participates in numerous individual and team competitions in addition to War Eagle and South’s BEST Robotics, including local, regional, and state science fairs, Science Olympiad, Team America Rocketry Challenge, Junior Academy of Science Paper Reading
Competition, Gorgas Scholarship Program, and others. Several students have received recognition and scholarships because of their participation in these events and two will even represent Wetumpka High School at the International Science and Engineering Fair this month and one has been chosen to go to Hunt Valley, Maryland for the National Junior Science and Humanities Symposia Program/ National Science Paper Reading, a tri-service (U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force) sponsored STEM competition. The STEAM Machine advisor and mentor is Dr. Virginia Vilardi. Finally, Elmore County’s nearly 750 seniors will soon reach the end of their time with us as they walk across the stage to receive their hard-earned diplomas. I wish all our graduates the best life has to offer as they embark on the next leg of their journey through life. Thanks to all our Elmore County Schools staff members for your dedication!
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Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.
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Haedyn Kerrigan Leverette Benn winners of the first annual “Share Your Smile Alabama Department of Public photo Health Oral Health Office with Alabama”contest
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To have a winning smile like Haedyn and Kerrigan,
start out young. Have your child’s first dental visit by age one. Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States. Since the mouth is the “gateway” to the body, oral health affects overall health. Schedule a preventive dental visit for children ages 1 to 17 years to help insure: • a healthy mouth • a healthy child • a healthy adult • a healthy life
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Elmore County Schools
Eclectic Reads Across America
Eclectic Elementary School celebrated Read Across America Week March 5-9 with a variety of activities including dress-up days, a camp day, special snacks, and special readers.Elmore County High School Media Specialist Terri Hull is shown with Ms. Black’s 3rd-grade classroom.
Two Elmore County Youth Awarded Scholarships by Poarch Band of Creek Indians
Two outstanding Elmore County youth in livestock were awarded scholarships by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PBCI) for their participation in Alabama’s livestock industry March 17 at a luncheon held in coordination with the Alabama Jr. Beef Expo and the Southeastern Livestock Exposition (SLE) Rodeo. Madelyn Stanfield, Millbrook, was awarded the County Star Junior Cattleman award while Ella Grace Downs, Deatsville, received the County Premier Exhibitor award. From left are SLE President Walter Crim, Downs, Stanfield and PBCI Elder Billy Smith. The PBCI has a proud history of supporting youth in livestock. Each year, two young people from each of Alabama’s 67 counties are awarded a scholarship to aid in future participation in youth livestock events or further education during the Jr. Beef Expo held at Garrett Coliseum during SLE Livestock Week.
Wetumpka Students Participate in Regional Science Fair
Several Wetumpka High School students participated in the Greater East Alabama Regional Science and Engineering Fair (GEARSEF). One-third of the students competing at the regional science fair received awards and will move on to state science fair competition at the University of Alabama Huntsville April 5-6. Lucas Lynn won Best of Fair and will not only compete at state but will represent his school and the country at the International Science and Engineering Fair in Pittsburgh, May 13-18.
Airport Road Celebrates Seuss
SEHS Career Tech Holds Job Fair
Career Tech teachers at Stanhope Elmore High School hosted a career fair in February for their classes to visit with local businesses, colleges and military recruiters at their campus. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Airport Road Intermediate School enjoyed a wonderful week celebrating the birthday of Dr. Seuss and Read Across America. The students received special counseling classes related to a Dr. Seuss-themed book (The Sneetches) that celebrates diversity and treating everyone with respect. The ARIS media center sponsored a Dr. Seuss poster contest where students could submit original drawings from their favorite Dr. Seuss book. The students even were treated to Green Eggs and Ham for breakfast on Friday. The week culminated with the ARIS annual reading night. Parents, students and teachers enjoyed an exciting night being read to by mascots such as Big Al, The Faulkner Eagle, Big Mo and The Stanhope Elmore Mustang. 54
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Victory Baptist School Changes Name
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Wetumpka High School Tennis Team Places Second at Sectionals
Victory Baptist School is now Victory Christian Academy. In March, the administration announced to its staff, parents and students that an official change of the school’s name would take effect immediately. Everyone is excited about the changes and improvements taking place at the academy. On April 26, Victory hosted an amateur golf tournament at The Pines Golf Course in Millbrook. Golfers had an opportunity to win prizes that included $10,000 for a hole in one, a TaylorMade driver for the longest drive, a $2,500 cash prize for the putting challenge, golf shirts, hats, Yeti cups, and many more prizes.
This year marks the first time that Wetumpka High School’s tennis team has qualified to go to state in three years. The team wom second place at sectionals held at Wiregrass Tennis Center in Dothan. Scott Walker is their coach.
Send Your school news to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.
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Elmore County Schools
ECTC Teaches Emergency Care
Elmore County Technical Center School Nurse Amy Colquitt spent time with Public Safety and Law students teaching them about starting IVs as a part of their Emergency Care Provider training and helped conduct check-offs testing their training.
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Edgewood Holds Art Show
Edgewood Academy recently held its “Art-rageous” Art Show. Coordinated by art teacher Rebecca Thornton, students in grades kindergarten through twelfth entered beautiful pieces of art in various mediums, including painting, drawing, mixed media, threedimensional and photography. Winners of the school contest were announced and entered into the AISA District Contest. Eighteen works of art placed at district, and eight will compete at the state level. Two artists, Granger Barrett and Harlie Barrett, won “Best of Show.” The following district winners are shown, front row from left, Anderson Harris, Granger Barrett and Harlie Barrett; middle row, Sophie Bayless, Ellie Adams, Bailey Barrett and Ava Larkin; back row, Baylie Seale, Hannah Grace Woodall, Shaylee Collier, Annie Thornton, Autumn Ingle and Owen Mercer.
Three Stanhope Elmore Band Members Participate in All-State Band
Three Stanhope Elmore High School students will be participating in the All-State Band: David Persky, DeZayveon Dickerson and Kimberly Harrison. These students auditioned in January for the All-State program and were accepted above their peers from other schools. The students auditioned again for their chair placement recently and then had two days of intense rehearsal to prepare for a concert. Persky also auditioned for the All-State Solo Festival and was selected as a brass finalist. He participated in the final concert for six judges.
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Airport Road Intermediate Holds Art Extravaganza
Airport Road Intermediate held its annual Art Night Extravaganza on April 19. The choir and dance team demonstrated their talents through song and dance. After their amazing performances, parents and other guests were invited to the ARIS Art Gallery (aka the cafeteria). There, amazing replicas of the most famous artwork in the world were found. Art winners were chosen and will go on to represent ARIS in The Sparking The Arts competition in Wetumpka. Proceeds will be used to purchase classroom supplies.
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Gangsters and Flappers Invade Homeschool Co-op
Dressed as gangsters and flappers, local homeschoolers reveled in 1920s costumes at their recent Roaring Twenties Feast, held at the Academy Days Homeschool Co-op in Millbrook. Grouped in the picture are two students from each grade level and two parents who won the costume contests. During the feast, all the homeschoolers and their parents sampled signature dishes from the 1920s, such as deviled eggs, Waldorf salad and pineapple upside-down cake among other fare. The event culminated weeks of study on the 1920s period of U.S. history. The Academy Days Co-op, held weekly during the school year at Coosada Baptist Church, is designed for preschool through high school students to learn subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group settings. For more info about the co-op, visit www.AcademyDays.com.
Airport Road Celebrates Libraries
Airport Road Intermediate School celebrated National Library Week April 8-12. First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation’s libraries and to promote library use and support. The culmination of this celebration brought several community leaders to read to ARIS students. ARIS was pleased to welcome Elmore County Schools Superintendent Richard Dennis, Coosada Mayor Anthony Powell, Millbrook Police Lieutenant Johnson, Howard Perdue (Armed Forces), and Grandview YMCA Director Bill Myers. We would also like to thank our librarian/media specialist Debbie Jones for all of her hard work to promote our ARIS library and the love of reading!
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Tallassee High School Student Wins State’s Highest Band Honor
Madelaine Worley, a senior at Tallassee High School, recently earned the highest honor a student can get in the Alabama Bandmasters Association: she was named the recipient of the Lamar Triplett Scholarship, named for longtime Bessemer educator Lamar Triplett. The scholarship is presented to a member of the Alabama All-State Band who, through an application process including a 500-word essay, demonstrates that he/she would like to become a music teacher. There are more than one thousand students in the Alabama All-State Bands, but they are the best of the best from every corner of the state. Worley participated on clarinet in every one of them during her high school years. She made Blue Band her sophomore year; White Band her junior year; and Red Band her senior year. Clarinet is perhaps the most competitive instrument in the entire All-State Band. Worley plays the saxophone in jazz band and sings soprano in the choir. This year, she was also named to the soprano section of the Alabama All-State Choir, a rare double feat of musical accomplishments for a high school student. She plays clarinet in the Montgomery Youth Orchestra and served as the drum major of the “Pride of Tallassee” band this year. Her father, Danny Worley, is a track & field and football coach at Tallassee High School, and her mother, Cindy, is the manager of the BB&T bank branch in Tallassee. Worley’s essay touched upon the importance of music in her life, and how she wishes to share it with others. She will attend Troy University this fall to study music education. From left are Tallassee Choral Director Michael Bird, Worley and Band Director Melanie Perry. 57
Send Your school news to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.
Neptune Hosts ECTC Students
Neptune Technology Group hosted students from the Elmore County Technical Center’s Pre-Engineering, Drafting, & Design program for a job shadow in their engineering department including tours of their manufacturing facility in Tallassee. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Elmore County Schools
ECTC Senior Named Go Build Alabama Student of the Month
Go Build Alabama, an initiative of the Alabama Construction Recruitment Institute (ACRI), has selected Elmore County Technology senior Preston Bethea as the recipient of the April Go Build Alabama Student of the Month scholarship award. Bethea is president of Skills USA and has taken electrical engineering classes for the past three years. “Preston is an outstanding student and goes above and beyond,” said Emilie Johnson, Bethea’s career tech counselor. “He was a Student of the Year Nominee in 2016 and Student of the Month for February 2018.” After graduation, Bethea plans to attend Auburn University at Montgomery for his core curriculum and then transfer to Auburn University. “I want to study either electrical engineering or building science at Auburn,” said Preston. “I like working with my hands and building things.” Go Build Alabama’s Student of the Month scholarship is given to one high school junior or senior every month during the school year by the ACRI. It is designed to support students who pursue careers in the construction industry, a field that offers a wide variety of rewarding career paths. Upon graduation, recipients will each receive a $1,000 scholarship to continue their training at an Alabama institution of higher education. Scholarships are made possible through proceeds from the Big Dog Poker Run, an annual motorcycle benefit ride organized by CraneWorks and Garrison Steel.
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Wetumpka Theatre Guild Student Places in Artistic Competition
On March 24, the Arts Council of Montgomery sponsored the 30th Annual Artistic Competition for Exceptional Students (ACES). Wetumpka High School student Tanner Caton performed in the Senior High Acting Division, competing against other tri-county high school students, and took 2nd Place and received a $300 scholarship.
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Stanhope Seniors Sign Softball Scholarships
Stanhope Elmore High School currently has the largest senior class to sign softball scholarships. Four have officially signed with anticipation for one more. Maris Stinchcomb signed with Marion Military Institute in Marion, Ala. She is a left-handed power/slap hitter with strong outfield abilities. Two sisters, Allie and Abbie Livingston, signed with Judson College, also in Marion, Ala. The Livingstons joined the SEHS program this year through the new AHSAA homeschool rule on eligibility. They both play middle infield/third base. Martha Mcdaniel has signed with Stillman College in Tuscaloosa. She is a catcher and a leader on and off the field. Kayla Wright has not yet signed but has been offered a scholarship by Tuskegee University. Laina Sansom is an outfielder for Stanhope’s softball team and will be cheering at Huntingdon College in Montgomery. From left are Kayla Wright, Martha Mcdaniel, Maris Stinchcomb, Laina Sansom, Allie Livingston and Abbie Livingston.
2018-19 Wetumpka Middle School Majorettes & Color Guard
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TheCollegeYears Preparing Teens for Life Outside the Nest
by Lee Gonet
Career Assessment:
Create a Life Plan Before College CBS News and the Washington Post both reported that 68% of college graduates never work in a field related to their majors. College is too expensive and time consuming for your child to spend working on an education that might not be an advantage and could leave them in insurmountable debt. I wrote in my very first column for Montgomery Parents: “Begin with the End in Mind.” That article advised students to enter high school with an overall plan. Moving to the next step, your child needs to create a successful life plan before leaving high school. For over 20 years, I have recommended the Crown Career Direct Guidance System (crown.org/career) to help teenagers develop their college and career plans wisely. Much of the following information comes from Crown’s website.
Cost The assessment is online and will take about an hour. You can choose the basic report for $25 or the detailed report for $80, and you can upgrade your report at any time. The purpose of the evaluation is to identify one’s natural personality strengths, potential vocational interests, skills, and values. Following the evaluation, you will receive a personalized action plan with suggested job possibilities.
Personality In this section, the term personality describes the way a person is natuMontgomery Parents I May 2018
rally motivated to act. All styles are valid, and all are needed in society and in the workplace. The goal is to identify occupations that are a good match for your child’s natural tendencies.
Interests Discovering your children’s general interests is a critical step in the career planning process because people tend to excel when they are interested in the work they do. In general, work that interests them will be fun even when it involves tasks that, under other circumstances, would be difficult or boring. Keep in mind, the more they enjoy what they are doing, the more likely they will be satisfied with their work, and the lower their work stress will be. Of course, this applies to their college studies as well.
Skills Identifying skills is important as students evaluate potential occupations. It is very critical that they match their abilities to career fields that utilize their best skills in order to gain the personal joy of doing something that comes naturally. These skills have been recognized, valued, and rewarded by others in the past. The bottom line is that they are most likely to excel when they use the skills that come naturally. 60
Values Values are important to career decisions. Many people think that they can be happy doing almost anything if it makes them successful in the material sense. All too often, they find themselves unfulfilled and burned out only a few years into their careers. Using values as criteria for career choices can preclude much of the disappointment and career stress present in today’s workplace. Crown Career Direct will not only send you detailed reports of suggested career areas, but also suggestions on what careers to avoid with reasons why.
O*NET This program is the nation’s primary source of occupational information (onetcenter.org). Central to the project is the database, containing thousands of professions covering the entire U.S. economy. For any career field, you will find subfields, required tasks, skills, abilities, and education, as well as median wages by state and links to further career help. Your children are uniquely made. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses, personality traits and values, skills and abilities will help them make wise career choices. Taking the time to evaluate these areas, to find volunteer opportunities in suggested fields, and to learn necessary skills for specific career choices will build a solid foundation for their future.
Lee Gonet is an avid learner, speaker, educator, and world traveler. She loves challenging teenagers to excel beyond what society considers possible by teaching young people to think deeply, learn intensely, and act purposefully outside the classroom box. For example, her daughter worked abroad by 16 and her son earned his Engineering Master’s by 20. Dreams do come true.
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*Child must have turned 4 by August 31, 2017 to attend VBS. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
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The sounds of Pomp & Circumstance fill the air as we approach graduation season. When your graduate closes the door to childhood, you want to give him a gift that reflects that milestone. Stuck for ideas? No matter what your budget, you are sure to find a great gift for your graduate here:
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Spirit wear - Help your recent grad blend
in at their new school by getting them some college spirit wear. Contact the school directly or go online to PrepSportsWear.com. They have an amazing database of colleges in the U.S and Canada.
Luggage - Maybe your grad is taking a year
off and plans to travel. Whether they are traveling first class or backpacking across the country, they need something to hold their things. For daily use, consider purchasing a book bag for walking around campus or a duffle bag for the gym.
Toolkit - If your grad is planning to move out
of Mom and Dad’s house, they won’t have access to Dad’s toolbox. A basic toolkit from your local hardware store includes screwdrivers, pliers, a hammer, measuring tape and other handy tools.
Gift cards - Gift cards are a one-size-fits-all
type of gift. New college students might appreciate a gas card or a gift card to Walmart, where they can pick up food, toiletries or household items. IKEA sells inexpensive furniture for small spaces.
A Basket of Goodies
- Whether your grad is starting out in his first apartment or headed to the dorm, he will appreciate a basket full of essentials. Fill a laundry basket with snack foods, toiletries, a sewing kit, and a roll of quarters for the Laundromat.
Books
- A classic graduation book is Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” which is an inspirational graduation sendoff for all ages. For practical college advice, try “The Secrets of College Success” by Lynn F. Jacobs. To record their college experiences, consider buying a 5-year journal.
Money - The most popular gift for grads is
cash. The question is always, “How much should I spend?” Check out Simchabucks. com for a cash gift calculator. Fill in your relationship to grad, state the event takes place, who the gift is from and your household income to receive a dollar amount suggestion.
Homemade gift
- If you have the time to make it, a homemade gift is a heartfelt one. Make a pillow or quilt out of high school and sports t-shirts. Put together a scrap book of high school memories and include theatre programs, sports medals and football programs. Create a photo montage of pictures from Kindergarten to graduation and present it at her party. mp Pam Molnar is the mother of a high graduate this year. With a summer filled with parties to celebrate the Class of 2018, she will have the perfect gift for all the graduates in her life.
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Why Watching TV and Movies Is Better Together
Help Kids Dodge Cigarette, Vaping, and Pot Marketing
While the amount of time kids spend with screens is important, research shows that watching TV and movies with your kids can support early literacy skills, boost empathy, and even help manage aggression after exposure to violent media. How you interact is important, though. As this study of young Sesame Street viewers shows, kids whose parents asked them to name letters and numbers during the show learned better than when parents did the naming. Co-viewing is similar to the way many parents treat reading to kids, especially for preschoolers and other young children. It’s a time to cuddle, focus your attention together, and share the experience of seeing and hearing the same thing, just like story time. In a study of parents who applied the techniques of high-quality reading to watching videos, kids scored higher on comprehension and vocabulary measures than kids whose parents didn’t use the techniques. So how do you actually co-view and reap those benefits? Try these tips with young kids: Focus their attention. Help kids pick up story details by verbally pointing out specific parts of what you’re watching, whether it’s a strange new word, a confusing part, or just an interesting detail. Say: “Look at his shiny new shoes!” Encourage them to think about the order of events. This helps kids think about sequence and cause and effect. Either after watching the show or before watching something they’ve seen before, say: “Can you remember what happened after the dog got loose?” You can also pause the show and ask: “Tell me what’s happening now.” Strengthen their understanding. Ask who, what, when, why, where, and how questions to get your kids to use new words and think through what they’ve seen. Say: “Who is that? Where do they live? Why are they doing what they’re doing?” Make it relatable. Have children link what they see to their own lives. For example, “Wow, they’re angry. What did you do the last time you were angry?” This helps kids learn to express themselves, cope with feelings, and understand others better. Expand on what kids say. Rephrase information from the show or things your kids have said back to them, relate details to your own life, or add new information. These are all ways to improve conversation skills, teach kids about the world, and bolster your connection. Say: “Loud noises scared Daniel Tiger. I don’t like loud noises either. How do you feel when you hear loud noises?” Here’s a badly kept secret: Kids like to talk about media -- a lot. Take advantage of this, as it will open up all kinds of opportunities to find out about the things your kids are interested in, the things that are important to them, and even what’s happening in their lives. You may be surprised at where your conversations lead. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Whether or not you smoke cigarettes or support legalizing marijuana, you probably don’t want your kids lighting up. But the rise of e-cigs, vaporizers like the Juul, and decriminalized pot may make your standard anti-smoking arguments -- “it causes cancer,” “it’s illegal” -- feel a little shaky. Add in celebrities posting pictures of themselves smoking various substances, and you might wonder: Is it possible to raise drug-free, smoke-free kids in the era of Smoking 2.0? If you’re feeling outspent, out-messaged, and out-cooled, take heart. There are plenty of ways to fight back: Traditional cigarettes Explain how bad smoking is for you. Kids think they’re immune and immortal. The death statistics could be eye-opening, even for the “it won’t happen to me” age group. Talk about how addictive nicotine is. Nicotine is really difficult to quit. Discuss the signs of physical addiction and the risk of getting addicted. Help them resist gimmicks. Traditional cigarettes are trying to capture smoker interest by using kid-friendly tricks -- for example, the Camel Crush cigarettes with a menthol ball inside. But the cigarettes still really are bad for you. Vaporizors and e-cigs Share the facts. E-cigarettes and vapes do reduce exposure to some of the harmful chemicals of tobacco cigarettes, but no one really knows the impact of these products on kids’ health. And studies show they contain formaldehyde. Talk about addiction. Kids can get hooked on nicotine but also on the physical habit of reaching for a pipe. Get your doctor involved. Have your pediatrician talk to your kid about the dangers of ingesting any chemical you don’t know much about. Marijuana Impart your values. Discuss what’s important to you: good character, solid judgment, and belief in a bright future -- all of which are compromised by smoking pot. Explain the health consequences. Study after study indicates that pot negatively affects a teen’s developing brain. Encourage waiting. For some kids, forbidding might backfire, so focus on preventing them from starting to smoke in the first place, delaying it as long as possible. Pull back the curtain on pot marketing. Kids and teens don’t like to be tricked, and advertising is full of sneaky ways to get people to buy a product, including branding pot products with names such as Bob Marley and Willie Nelson. Instead of lecturing, help your kids break down the ads to see how they try to influence emotions, choices, and behavior. 64
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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston
Marriage Turmoil Affects Your Teen Marriage is sometimes hard. Anyone who says differently either hasn’t been married, or is selling you something. What I want to remind parents of today is that marriage turmoil doesn’t stay contained between mom and dad. Each member of a family is connected to every other member. That means your conflict with your spouse almost always spills over into the relationship with your teen. Now, I don’t say this to lay a guilt trip on parents who are struggling in their marriage. Nor is this article designed to settle spousal disagreements. But some of the problems your teen is facing now could be the byproduct of the tension, anxiety and worry he feels as mom and dad work on their own relationship. I’d like to show you how to handle marriage conflict well, so that in turn, your teen will learn how to handle turmoil in a healthy way.
Emotional Isolation
When mom and dad start to drift apart, the family as a whole starts to fragment. As relationships in the house continue to shift and separate, pretty soon everyone becomes their own private island. It’s like having disconnected strangers living under one roof. No one is working as a team. No one is manning the walls and looking out for the family, and so feelings, events, and important moments begin to slip through the cracks. I asked one young girl in our counseling program how she was doing. It was a simple question and I expected a simple “doing okay” answer. Instead, the young lady proceeded to tell me everything about herself; everything she ever did, everything she ever accomplished, everywhere she had ever traveled and every talent she had. She told me all her hopes and dreams, and all her disappointments and failures in one breathless dissertation. She wanted me to know she is worth something and she pled her case based on her accomplishments. When she took a breath, I finally got a chance to wedge in a better question that might open a real dialogue. Her demeanor completely changed when I asked, “What’s the most difficult thing that has happened in your life?” Her chattering stopped, her eyes welled up with tears, and she replied, “When my dad left, I felt all alone.” Suddenly, there was silence. I stood looking at her for a few seconds and instead of trying to come up with the right words to say, I just gave her a hug. Finally, a real connection was made. Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Don’t allow emotional isolation to leave your teen feeling all alone.
Physical Isolation
Divorce or separation can definitely lead teens to feel physically isolated. But this can happen when parents are together, as well. Sometimes it takes the form of dad spending nights and weekends at the office, and away from the family. Or maybe it looks like mom devoting her free moments to various boards, committees and volunteer work, and never being home. We know the devastation divorce can bring on kids. But being married and always apart can do similar damage. Just like kids who feel emotionally isolated, kids who feel physically isolated from mom and dad will look elsewhere to fill the void in their lives. They may choose to spend little or no time at home. They’ll be prone to seek a sense of “family” elsewhere, usually with a peer group where it is easy to find acceptance and form attachments. Or your teen may try to imitate mom and dad by throwing themselves into school, sports, video games, friends, or social media in order to experience the feelings only quality time with parents can offer.
Putting It In Perspective
Now let’s look at some positive ways we can help and protect our teens even if our marriage is stormy. First, understand that your child is affected by your relationship with your spouse. Even
fights behind closed doors aren’t hidden from kids. They can feel the tension and sense the conflict. If you and your spouse aren’t working together and your marriage isn’t strong, your teen will know it—and may try to use it against you. I’ve had parents say to me, “We just can’t see eye to eye.” My reply is, “Then get counseling and fix it.” Don’t let pride keep you from doing what your kid—and your marriage—needs. You can’t get your marriage, or your family, where you want it to go without guidance and direction from others, and if you don’t stop and ask for help, chances are you’ll end up somewhere you never wanted to be. No one sets out to create a broken family, but without getting counsel and advice from others, you’re likely to create one anyways. 66
If your teen sees his parents working through their problems with a counselor, it will give him hope that his situation can be resolved as well. Don’t be afraid to share some of those struggles with him in the context of working toward a solution. Saying “We’re going to remain strong even when don’t agree” gives the child license to feel loved and accepted even in the midst of family conflict. Second, you’re not in the seventh-grade anymore, so don’t blame your spouse in front of the kids. Your teen doesn’t need to hear why his
mom can be hard to live with, or why her dad is inconsiderate. If you need someone to talk to about the problems in your marriage, find a pastor, counselor or friend. Do not air your dirty laundry in front of your child. Remember, spending time with your teen confers on them a sense of value that no one else can give. Even in the midst of working on your marriage, make sure to spend regular time with your teen. If you have the freedom to do it, take them to lunch, grab a snack after school, attend all games or school events, and communicate online. Send regular text messages to say “Hi,” or, “I love you.” Make sure your teen knows your desire to be involved in his or her life, or they’ll seek validation from someone else, and that can lead to bigger problems than you ever want to have with your teen. Lastly, Mom and Dad need to protect their marriage above all else. In fact, it is more
important than just about anything parents can do to help their kids. Parents who have kids approaching the teen years would be wise to prepare ahead of time by ensuring that they are on the same page, and that the foundations of their marriage are strong. Start taking steps today to guard your marriage from the problems that can arise during the teen years. And for parents who are experiencing difficulties with a teen right now, turn your attention toward your marriage first, to begin the healing process. No marriage is perfect. But the struggles between a husband and wife don’t have to spill over into the lives our teens. Once we realize how interconnected our family relationships are, we can take steps to assure our teens that they are loved, accepted, and valued. 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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Trinity is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution, binding academic excellence with Christian values. Providing a challenging college-preparatory education, Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. Our extraordinary educators at Trinity strike the perfect balance as they encourage students to strive for excellence, while emphasizing Christ-like character above all else. “The Trinity Experience” produces leaders who possess mental, physical and spiritual strength. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Director of Admission, Jenny McClinton, at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com. Tuition assistance is available. Discount offered to our military families. Trinity admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Trinity does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origins in any of the educational policies, scholarship programs and athletics,
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Who says summer can’t be just as educational and fun as school? Customizing a vacation schedule for each child in the family is an eye-opening adventure in and of itself. If you want a peaceful, happy summer, help your kids stretch their wings beyond the usual, school-year routine. Transform your kids’ summer into weeks of entertaining growth by thoughtfully scheduling activities they will love and appreciate. When it comes to stringing together local experiences, imagine the beads that would go on a charm bracelet for each of your kids. Which beads best represent your child’s interests? A soccer ball, a book and pair of hiking boots? Or perhaps a fairy wand, ballet slippers and a teacup? No matter what the collection of interests, gather up some regional guides, hop online, and ask friends what they have planned for their kids. You are going on a summer activity hunt and you don’t want to miss out on any of your options.
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Take a customized approach to summer fun and meet the needs of your kids locally. You can find day camps, classes, workshops and activities in your area that will keep smiles on your kids’ faces all summer long.
Ink Year-round Commitments. You may already have school-year activities that extend into summer like scouting or 4-H. Be sure to get these commitments on your child’s schedule first, so you don’t inadvertently overbook. If your child participates in a sport or another competitive activity, training camps may be required during summer. These can be enriching because kids who train over the summer often rejoin their teams playing at a higher level than the prior season.
Ask For Referrals. Chances are good that parents who have lived in your area for several years have the scoop on the best day camps and summer programs. Poll your friends individually or post a question on social media to gather information. Specify each child’s interests to draw the most relevant recommendations, then hand pick a summer plan to delight each child. Don’t send the funloving child who longs for improv classes to the same activities as the serious sibling who adores long games of chess. They can swap adventures on the car-ride home, but make sure their activities reflect their passions. Don’t Overlook Summer School.
Generally speaking, if your child needs a leg-up on academics during the school year, summer school is a smart choice. Since the summer before high school, we have signed our daughter up to take a wellness course in the summer. Getting a jump on pre-requisites allows her to take an extra art elective during the school year, which provides a welcome break during an intense school day. Ask your child’s school counselor if taking summer school courses might benefit your child’s schedule next year. Some districts allow online learning or swapping summer athletic training to fulfill physical education requirements.
www.ChildrensAL.org/concussion
KNOW what to do in case of suspected concussion
A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion: n.....Should be IMMEDIATELY
REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY n.....Should be evaluated right away
SPORTS MEDICINE
by a doctor/healthcare professional n.... Should not be left alone n.....Should not drive a motor vehicle
SPORTS MEDICINE
For a Concussion Clinic appointment, call 205.934.1041 In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER SPORTS MEDICINE
SPORTS MEDICINE
Check Local Resources. Schools, libraries, and community centers are great resources for summer activities. Be sure to track down any printed or online
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guides they may offer. Also check towns near where you live to see if they offer programs that may interest your child. By driving one town over, we found a community theater production our daughter can participate in inexpensively each summer. Now that’s worth a ten-minute drive.
Consider Your Child’s Needs.
Sometimes a kid-centric focus is part of an activity’s allure. But if you know your child flourishes in a structured environment with adult leadership, trust your instincts. Be mindful of how much structure and supervision each offering includes. Some kids are more self-motivated than others. Consider scaffolding more leadership into your child’s summer experiences over time. If your child is reticent about trying new activities, see if school friends would like to try a new activity together. Kids of working parents often appreciate an opportunity to participate in summer programming, if you can pick up most of the driving.
Go Your Own Way. Sometimes you want your child to benefit from the experience of trying a new experience without school friends. So go ahead and enroll in activities where enthusiasm for the topic will trump any first-day butterflies. Do not cave to peer pressure if all of the other kids are doing an activity that is not a good match for your child. If the program focus isn’t a good fit, the experience isn’t going to be enriching no matter how many friends are in attendance. Make timely, age-appropriate choices for your children, and when religion is an activity focus, make sure it fits with your family’s values. Don’t Overlook A Summer Reading Challenge. If your child
has a busy summer schedule, you might be concerned about enough down time. Signing your child up for a summer reading challenge at the beginning of summer is a great way to build downtime into any schedule. On busy days, reading will provide a welcome reprieve from social activity. And on lazy days, having a daily book-reading commitment can get an unscheduled day off to a good start. mp
Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and writing coach who loves local adventures. She never runs out of interesting things to see and do in her area, and hopes to pass this attitude down to her daughter.
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Girl Scouts Take Over the State House
Legislators and other state-elected officials gathered at the Alabama State House on March 8 with more than 100 Girl Scouts, volunteers and Girl Scout staff in order to educate and raise awareness about issues important to girls and young women. The day began with Girl Scouts leading the Legislature in prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Girl Scouts then greeted elected officials at their offices with Girl Scout Cookies and questions targeting what their specific duties were to Alabama. “Throughout the day, Girl Scouts from across Alabama shared their leadership experience and were shining examples of G.I.R.L.s (go-getter, innovator, risk-taker, leader),” said Karlyn Edmonds, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA). “Our goal was to share Girl Scout programs that GSSA has been implementing all year, and the upcoming vision for the number one girl-led program, Girl Scouts.” In an effort to build the leaders of tomorrow, GSSA prioritized the following initiatives: * Promote Economic Opportunities for Girls – Increase involvement in STEM and strengthen their financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills. * Healthy Living Opportunities for Girls – Increase access to outdoor activities and prevent bullying/relational aggression and build healthy relationships. * Fostering Global Citizenship and a Global Voice for Girls – Girl Scouts is dedicated to ensuring that girls develop an increased awareness of the larger world around them and understand their relationship to it—even if they don’t travel beyond their own community—so they can grow into responsible global citizens. * Supporting a Strong Non-Profit Community That Encourages the Girl Scout Leadership Experience – Girl Scouts support policies that help nonprofits screen, recruit, and retain staff and volunteers, as well as incentivize charitable giving. Charitable giving policies fuel the health of our nation and communities around the world. Girl Scout Advocacy Day is just one of the ways Girl Scouts works across party lines to educate and raise awareness about issues important to girls and young women. Through their advocacy efforts, Girl Scouts demonstrates to policymakers the need to inspire, prepare, and mobilize girls and those who care about them to lead positive change through civic action. Shown are Sarah-Kate and Emily Ingram, and Elizabeth Ingram.
Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy Competes in Kick for a Cure
Members of Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy helped raise nearly $1,000 in a couple of days to support the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by accepting donations and competing in the Annual St. Jude Kick for a Cure Karate Tournament and Kick Challenge in Pelham, Ala., on April 14. Champion winners were: Johnny McCall, Fred Crittendon, Elysia Lewis, David Johnson, Michael Brown, Jr., Heaven Lee, Byron Dixon (not shown), and Briana Jackson (not shown).
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Abrakadoodle Summer Art Camps and Classes ad on page 55
This Summer, Abrakadoodle will be offering an outstanding series of camps at the Abrakadoodle Pop-Up Art Studio hosted in partnership with The Shoppes at Eastchase. The 2018 line up includes Half Day Preschool camps (ages 3-5) and Half or Full Day Elementary camps (ages 6-12). Each week has a Morning Session #1 (9:00 am-12:00 pm) and Afternoon Session #2 (2:00 pm5:00 pm). Each session is $145 with $35 material fee and has unique themes and fine arts lessons. Morning and afternoon sessions can be combined for working parents with Early Drop off, Lunch & Play and Extended Pick Up available for additional fees. Discounts offered for Siblings, and MultiCamp Sign Up. Visit our website for online registration and our full list of summer offerings. Elementary Sessions (ages 6-12): Session 1: 9:00- 12:00 pm Session 2: 2:00 – 5:00 pm May 28 – June 1, June 4-8, June 11-15, June 18-22, June 25-29, July 9-13, July 16-20, July 23-27, July 30 – August 3 Preschool Session (ages 3-5): Session 1: 9:00- 12:00 pm June 18-22, July 16-20, July 23-27 (334) 265.5758 mcornwell@abrakadoodle.com www.abrakadoodle.com/al-montgomery-register
Alabama Christian Academy Grow Camps ad on page 39
4700 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery Seven One-week sessions from June 4-July 27. Camp Eagle is a FUN-tastic first class day camp for ALL kids ages 5-completed 5th grade. Come experience a summer of fun at Camp Eagle. Every single day is filled with an exciting variety of activities. Your child will participate daily in recreational and cooperative games, arts and crafts, sports activities, academic components, praise time, swimming, free time field trips and more. (334) 277-1985 dsanford@alabamachristian.org www.acacampeagle.org
Armory Learning Arts Center ad on page 36
1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery Lots 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 times. (334) 625.ARTS (2787) www.funinmontgomery.com/ parks-items/Armory or on Facebook under Armory Learning Arts Center
Barb’s Summer Art Camp ad on page 27
1923 Mulberry Street, Montgomery 3 day ART CAMPS with Barb Grimes for 5 and up...$45 a day or $135 for 3 days. Painting, Drawing, Collage, Mosaics, Oil Pastels, Etc. Session 1 – June 5-7 Session 2 – June 20-22 Session 3 – June 26-28 Session 4 – July 10-12 Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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Mo Session 5 – July 17-19 Session 6 – July 24-26 Art with Barb Grimes at Nancy’s Ice (Sturbridge Shopping Center): May 29, 30 and 31 from 10 a.m. until 10:45 and/or 11 a.m. until 11:45; Ages 3 and up. One day art camps – painting canvases. $15 for one painting a day or $25 for two paintings a day. Plus free ice treats. Paint a canvas with Barb at Nancy’s Ice through the months of June and July Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. and Thursdays at 10 a.m. $15 plus free ice treats. Call to save a spot.
July Art Camp, July 9-13, Ages 6-12; $125 July Weekly Wednesday Art Classes July 11, 18, 21 and Aug. 1; 4-5 p.m. for ages 6-9 and 5:15-6:15 p.m. for ages 10-12, Ages 6-12; $50 a month Mini Matisse, July 17-19 from 10 a.m. until Noon Ages 4-5; $80 Teen Art Camp, July 17-19 from 1-3:30 p.m. Ages 13 and up; $95 Please visit our website for details on these camps. (334) 354.1975
www.pzazzart.com
(334) 269.2272 or (334) 546-2233 www.barbsonmulberry.com or www.facebook.com/barbsonmulberry.com
Trinity Art Camp
Montgomery Music Project Summer Camp
1700 E. Trinity Blvd., Montgomery July 17-19, Times: 8-10a.m. (1st-3rd Grade), 10:30-12:30 p.m. (4th -5th Grade). $100 fee which includes all supplies. Deadline May 23rd. Please see website for more details.
ad on page 42
2416 West Cloverdale Park, Montgomery Montgomery Music Project (MMP) offers an enriching 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. June 25-June30 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Camp will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church. Registration forms can be found at www.montgomerymusicproject.org.
(901) 603.0420 montgomerymusicproject@gmail.com www.montgomerymusicproject.org
P’zazz Art Studio ad on page 49
138 W. Main St. Downtown Prattville Mini Monet Art Camp, June 5-7 from 10 a.m. -12 p.m. Ages 4-5; $80 Just for Boys, June 5-7 from 1-3:30 p.m. Ages 6-12; $95 June Weekly Wednesday Art Classes, June 6,13, 20 & 27; 4-5 p.m. for ages 6-9 and 5:15-6:15 p.m. for ages 10-12, Ages 6-12, $50 a month Under the Sea, June 11-15 from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.Ages 6-12; $125 Glitz & Glam, June 11-15; 1-3:30 p.m. Ages 6-12; $125 5 Day Art Camp!! June 18-22, Ages 6-12; $125 P’zazzy Zazz Art Camp, June 26-28, Ages 6-12; $95
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(334) 213.2100 blee@trinitywildcats.com www.trinitywildcats.com
Alabama Shakespeare Festival Theatre Camps
1 Festival Drive, Montgomery Broadway South Musical Theatre Camp: July 9-13, 9:00am - 4:00 p.m. Fee: $300. Ages: 9th-12th Grade Camp Shakespeare: July 16-20 or June 23-27, 8:30am - 4:00 p.m. Fee: $300. Ages: 4th-6th Grade Camp Shakespeare Extreme: June 18-22 or June 26-30, 9:00am - 4:00 p.m. Fee: $300. It’s Camp Shakespeare but - extreme. Ages: 7th-12th Grade Camp Shakespeare Junior: July 4-8 or June 11-15. Fee: $149. Ages: 5th-8th Grade Weekend Warrior: July 27, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. and July 28, 10:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. Fee: $150 (Only $100 with any other camp). Ages: 7th-12th Grade (334) 271.5393
glambert@asf.net
www.asf.net
ASU Tonea Stewart’s Performing Arts Camp
915 S. Jackson Street, Montgomery Camps in acting, singing, dancing, oral interpretation, and technical theater. TAPS-Theatre Artist Performance School (Ages 6-12) Enrichment Activities Program held
www.montgomeryparents.com
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May 28- June 9; $325 Registration Cost CAMP 3T-Teaching Through Theatre (Ages 13-18) Residential program in performance for teenagers held June 24-30, $375 Registration TTI-Technical Theatre Initiative (Ages 15-18) Practical training in the technical arts held June 11-16 & June 24-30; $215/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.) July 10-13 All applications require a $50 non-refundable deposit to be applied towards the camp fee. Ages: Ages 6 - 21 years (334) 229.6755
toneastewartcamps.com
Jasmine Hill Art Gallery
110 Company Street, Wetumpka Art classes offered to ages 4 to adult. We explore all mediums: oil, acrylics, water color, sketching. Check us out on Facebook for more details about classes. Please visit us on Facebook under Jasmine Hill Art Gallery. (334) 300-6793 Gallery
Facebook under Jasmine Hill Art
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts
1 Museum Drive, Montgomery Teen Camp: June 25-29, Ages 13 and up. Afternoons and Youth Camp: June 4-8, July 9-13, July 23-27, Ages 6-12. Week-long. Half-day or All day. 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.
Bowling
Paint & Clay
Brunswick Zone
(334) 240.4333
Link on website
www.mmfa.org
4319 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery Paint your own pottery or canvas. Full and half day Summer camps. Plan your next party with us! Like us on Facebook. (334) 819.4450
Facebook under Paint & Clay
Biking Fountain City BMX Track
802 County Road 4, Prattville, AL Friday Practices are $3. Free 1 day trial. Fun for any age. Race on most Sundays. For more information please visit us on Facebook under Fountain City BMX. (334) 300.4328 info@fountaincitybmx.com www.fountaincitybmx.com
BAMA Lanes
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 (334) 272.5423
BAMA Lanes in Prattville
1734 East Main Street, Prattville EAT ‘n’ BOWL, (includes 2 games, shoe rental, and meal) Prices and times vary upon day. (334) 358.8600 esprattville.com
Link on website
www.bamalan-
1661 Eastern Blvd. Special summer deals. Please call for more information and weekend pricing. 819.7171
Link on website
www.bowlbrunswick.com
Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 33
1018 Madison Ave (Armory Learning Arts Center) The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering summer classes in classes in classical ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), pointe and variations,
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pas de deux, composition, modern, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, tap and “Back to Dance.” Session I is: May 29-June 14 and Session II is June 25-July 12. There will also be a “Tutus and Tiaras” camp for ages 3-8 on June 18-22. The Alabama Dance Theatre Summer Dance Seminar for intermediate and advanced dancers will be held July 15-27. The Summer Dance Seminar culminates with 2 Free performances of “Stars On the Riverfront” July 29 and July 30 at 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. (334) 241.2590
www.alabamadancetheatre.com
Armory Athletics ad on page 36
1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery 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. Kids Summer Camp, June 4-July 20 Full Day, Weekly, $150; Daily, $35 Half Day, Weekly, $100; Daily, $25 Games, Gymnastics, Ninja, Crafts, Swimming, Field Trips, Friends and Fun! Ages: Ages 5-14 Please call for our summer scheduling or visit us on Facebook at Armory Athletics. (334) 625.2789 armoryatheltics@gmail.com www.armoryathletics.com
Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection ad on page 41
3370 Harrison Rd., Montgomery We hope you will join in the fun this summer! Learning new dances with different instructors, Baton and Cheer, Outdoor water play, Themed days, International days, Talent Shows and Dress Up, Arts and Crafts, Movies, Miss Manners and Modeling, Princess Appearances, Musical Theatre, Games and more! Making new friends! Dates for camps are: June 4-8, June 11-15, June 18-22, July 9-13, and July 16-20. Camps are all day, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, for ages 3-11. Morning and afternoon snacks are provided, but campers must bring lunch. The fee is $175 per week and this includes arts and crafts fee. A non-refundable deposit of $75 is required for registration. Come by the studio to register as soon as possible as slots fill up fast! You may call the studio 334-277-1098, or text Ms. Tonya, 334-549-1098 with any questions.
birthday parties, school cheer training. Call Josh or Conni Olson. (334) 782.3294 or (334) 782.2953 riverregionace@ gmail.com www.acetribe.com/ACE/Riverregion
Alabama River Region Ballet
7981 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Children’s Fairytale Ballet Camp: (ages 3-7) Cinderella, June 4-8 and Sleeping Beauty, June 1115. Includes ballet class and ballet oriented movies and crafts relating to classical storybook ballets. Light snack included. Summer Camp, June 5-28 for ages 3-18. Summer Dance Intensive, July 9-20 for ages 11-18. Classes offered in Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, & Modern. (334) 356-5460 riverregionballet@gmail.com www.riverregionballet.com
Centre’ for Performing Arts
975 South Memorial Drive, Prattville June Intensive, June 11-15 from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. with an hour lunch break. Dance Classes: July 9-Aug. 2, 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); June 6-8 from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 491.1192
www.centreforperformingarts.com
C.J.’S Dance Factory (home of the Prattville Ballet)
145 South Court Street, Prattville Camp Dates: June 18- July 20 Little Princess Ballerina Camp: Tutus, Tiaras and Princess Activities, Power Tumble Gymnastics Camp, Jazz and Ballet Technique. (334) 467.8603
www.cjsdancefactory.com
Dance Generation
65 Ashburton Dr, Montgomery Tap, ballet, jazz, baton, lyrical, hip hop and gymnastics. Ages 3-adult, Beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Cost depending on class. Call for more information. (334) 395.4300
www.dancegenerationstudio.com
Lisa’s Dance Dimensions
2981 Main St., Millbrook Please visit our website for our Summer classes being offered. Day and Evening classes available. June 4-22, Theme Dance Camp offered from 9 a.m. until Noon.
(334) 277.1098 Facebook under Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection
(334) 285.5515
United Gymstars & Cheer Camp
422 Pratt St., Prattville Classes begin June 5 and will run through July. We will be offering: Tuesday’s from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. for 1st grade and up. Tuesdays from 4-5 p.m. classes will be offered for 3-5 year olds. These classes will be divided according to age. This is a combination class, which includes ballet, tap and gymnastics. This also is a combination class including; Ballet, gymnastics and jazz.
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6100 Brewbaker Blvd., Montgomery Build Your Own Summer Camp, Weekly themed activities, gymnastics, trampoline, rope climbing, crafts and more. June 4-July 27; Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 4 and up. Half Day and full day offered. Please visit our website for registration and details. Call for rates. (334) 284.2244
www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com
Ace of the River Region
1965 Eastern Blvd. , Montgomery Tumbling Classes for $100 ($150 value). June 5-August 5 (Gym closed June 24-July7) Also, Stunt classes. All level tumbling classes, All star teams, Jump & Flexiblility classes, individual lessons, Montgomery Parents I May 2018
www.lisasdancedimensions.com
Mann Dance Studio
(334) 365.5154
www.manndancestudio.net
Montgomery Ballet
2101 Eastern Blvd. Suite 223 Summer Intensive Program June 4-15 Montgomery Ballet’s Summer Intensive Program focuses on ballet, and also offers a wide variety of classes in other dance forms including Jazz, Modern, Variation and Partnering. Fantasy Camp: Dance Party for Kids June 4-15 (334) 409.0522
www.montgomeryballet.org
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Next Dimensions Gymnastics
101 Penser Blvd., Millbrook Please visit our website for our Summer classes being offered. Day and Evening classes available. June 4-22, Theme Dance Camp offered from 9 a.m. until Noon. (334) 285.5515
www.lisasdancedimensions.com
Day Camps Alabama State University ad on page 45
1030 W. University Drive, Montgomery SKYCAP/IMSET 2018 Session 1: June 4-22; Session 2: July 9-27 Orientation: May 19 from 9a.m. until 2p.m.; 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. Ages: 1st-12th Grade (334) 229.4686 or (334) 229.4317 continuingeducation
www.alasu.edu/
Sylvan STEM Camps ad on page 14 and 41
2640 Zelda Road, Montgomery Creative Coding: June 4-7, 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. $124. Campers will collaborate to plan and build projects using visual programming. They will create interactive greetings, experiment with sounds and musical notes, make comics, design and animate characters and build level-based games. Grades 3-8. 3rd Annual STEM Challenge Camp: June 25-28 or July 16-19 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Grades 3-8, $149. Students will explore an ALL NEW real world problem and work in a team to solve the problem using K’NEX. Teams will compete against each other and with other Sylvan centers across the country to design the winning solution. Grand prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. LAST YEAR WE PLACED NATIONALLY! 2nd PLACE OVERALL! All Day Botlab/Engineering Camp: June 11-14 from 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., $124 or July 9-12 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Grades 1-6, $240. Students collaborate in pairs to build their own design based on robotics 201/202. Study Skills Back to School Camp: July 23-26 from 9a.m. until 12 p.m. Grades 9-12, $124. Students will learn critical study skills strategies, including how to: Set goals for the upcoming year, Organize schoolwork and study areas, Learn time management skills, Learn strategies to address learning preferences and Assess and successfully tackle all learning situations. (334) 262.0043 www.sylvanlearning.com/montgomery
YMCA Prattville ad on page 52
600 E. Main Street (Smith Branch) and 972 McQueen Smith Road (Bradford Branch) Summer Day Camp, girls and boys ages 5-12. Provides your child with summer adventures that promote a healthy spirit, mind, and body. Begins May 29–August 3. Mon. – Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Summer Day Camps are available at the Daniel Pratt, Main and Pine Level locations. Registration fee is due at time of registration. Registration fee is $115 per child, Member and Non-members.
www.montgomeryparents.com
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Weekly fees for 1st child are $90 (Members) and $110 for Non-members. Discounts for siblings. For more information please contact Priscilla Glasscock or Patrick Wunshel at 358.1446. Gymnastics and Cheer Camp: Don M. Smith Branch, 365.8852, Bring your sack lunch and combine your 2 favorite sports together. May 30-June 1 from 9a.m. until 4p.m. for ages 5 ½ and up. These camps may be taken separately. For more information, 365.8852. If you choose to do both a discount will be offered. • East Bradford Branch – 358-9622 Super Summer Sport Camps, Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m.12 p.m. Sports Camp Dates will be available May 1. Girls’ Volleyball Camp, Ages 8-12; Girls’ Basketball Camp, Ages 6-12; Boys’ Basketball Camp, Ages 6-12; Fishing Camp, Ages 8-16; Boys’ Baseball Camp, Ages 6-12; Girls Softball Camp, Ages 6-12; Soccer Camp, Ages 6-12. • Outdoor Adventure Camp: Bradford Branch, 358.9622, The Prattville YMCA, in conjunction with Lanark, will be presenting a brand new Outdoor Adventure Camp! Boys & Girls, ages 9-16. Members and Non-Members. June 15 & 29, July 13 & 27 from 9a.m. until Noon. • Camp 2:22 is an all day program during the summer that teaches junior high students character development, life skills, service learning, and how to have a good time in a safe and positive way. Begins May 29. Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Boys and Girls entering 7th-9th grades.
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Smith Branch, (334) 365.8852 East Bradford Branch, (334) 358.9622 www.prattvilleymca.org
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3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook Expedition Lanark Outdoor Day Camp June 4 -August 3. 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 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. (334) 285.455
www.alabamawildife.org
AUM Youth Summer Programs
75 Techna Center Drive, Montgomery Camps offered from June through July Ages: Gr. K-5 - 12th Camps offered from June through July Other: OutReach offers a variety of educational enrichment programs children of all ages including Summer Youth Camps, ACT Review classes, Math & Reading Programs, and an Accelerated Program (Brainiac Camp). These programs instill children with an excitement for learning, prepare them for the upcoming school year, and even equip them with necessary skills for the college entrance exam. (334) 244.3804
www.outreach.aum.edu/classes
Camp Grandview — YMCA
4700 Camp Grandview Road, Millbrook Dates: May 29 - August 3 Length: Weekly basis; 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. Ages: Ages 5-15 (334) 290.9622
www.ymcamontgomery.org
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Camp Invention
Bear Exploration Center, 2525 Churchill Drive, Montgomery Dates: May 29 - June 1 from 8:00 to 4:00; Cost: $230. A day at the Camp Invention program is packed with hands-on activities, brainstorming, experimentation, and unbelievable action! Ages: K-6th Grade (334) 284.8014 www.invent.org
campinvention@invent.org
Camp Sunshine for Boys
3067 Carter Hill Road July 16-20; Other: Outreach program for less advantaged youth with a variety of outdoor activities. No cost but invitation only camp; may call for application. Ages: Ages 6-11 (334) 262.2697
Camp Tukabatchee
3067 Carter Hill Road Day and resident camps. Week 1: June 3-9; Week 2: June 10-16; Week 3: June 17-23; Other: Boy Scout Camp. Emphasizing outdoor skills and leadership development. Week long experience with swimming, hiking, canoeing and other outdoor skills. Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 977.2688
www.camptuk.org
Gross Out Camp Takes Science Outdoors
Alabama Nature Center (Lanark), Millbrook July 23-27; Cost: $200 Yuck...if it’s gross we’ve got it! This award-winning science camp focuses on hands-on biology. Activities include: creek stomping expeditions for macro-invertebrates, meet-a-tree style scientific observation, and creativity such as making your own bird-poop paint (not from birds). Kids will meet live snakes in a reptile program. Learning has never been this much fun! Sponsored by Fresh Air Family. The camp combines science experiments, exploring, journaling, and nature-inspired arts and crafts to address a variety of learning styles. Ages: Ages 6-9 (205) 540-6642 www.alabamawildlife.org or www.GrossOutCamp.org
Montgomery Zoo Summer Camps
2301 Coliseum Parkway June 4-8: 11-12 year olds, full day camp (8:00am Montgomery Parents I May 2018
- 5:00pm); June 11-15: 9-10 year olds, half day camp (8:00am - Noon); June 18-22: 9-10 year olds, full day camp (8:00am - 5:00pm); June 25-29: 7-8 year olds, half day camp (8:00am - Noon); July 9-13: 7-8 year olds, full day camp (8:00am 5:00pm); July 16-20: 5-6 year olds, half day camp (8:00am - Noon);July 23-27: 5-6 year olds, half day camp (8:00am - Noon); 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. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 240.9400
www.montgomeryzoo.com
Prattville Parks & Recreation Summer Youth Program Doster Center, 424 S. Northington St, Prattville Weekly Field Trips, Games, Crafts and Swimming Begins May 29 until the Friday before school starts, 7a.m. until 6 p.m.; Registration begins April 1st at the Doster Center. Registration Fee – Non-refundable $75 registration per child; $75/week. Ages: K5-6th Grade (334) 361.3640
www.prattvilleal.gov
YMCA Cleveland Branch
1201 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, Montgomery Dates: May 29 until August 3 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. Ages: Ages 3-12 (334) 265.0566
www.ymcamontgomery.org
Prattville Parks & Recreation Summer Youth Program
Weekly Field Trips, Games, Crafts and Swimming Begins May 30 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.
YMCA East Branch
3407 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery Dates: May 29 until August 3 (Ages 3 to 12) Youth specialty camps featuring music and dance. Participants will have opportunities to learn modern
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dance, jazz, tap, and piano with professional instruction in a first class dance studio and music laboratory. Ages: Ages 3-12 (334) 272.3390
www.ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Goodtimes
3407 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery Dates: May 29 until August 3 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. Ages: Ages 5-14 (334) 279-8833
www.ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Junior High Teen Leadership
Dates: May 29 until August 3 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. Ages: Ages 12-14 (334) 279.8666
www.ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Kershaw
2225 West Fairveiw Ave., Montgomery Summer Camp Dates: May 29 until August 3. Please call for cost and registration details. Ages: Ages 5-15 (334) 265.1433
www.ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Southeast Branch
3455 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery Summer Camp Dates: May 29-Aug. 3; 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 its two gymnasiums, which provide open goals for working on jump shots or a great open space for fun activities on rainy days. Ages: Ages 5-15 (334) 262-6411
www.ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Wetumpka
200 Red Eagle Road, Wetumpka Day camp, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. May 29- August 3. A vital part of the community for over 40 years. It offers the opportunity to get involved with youth sports, pre-school classes, after-school programs and more. Ages: Ages 5-13 (334) 567-8282
www.ymcamontgomery.org
Day Trips Callaway Gardens
US Hwy 18, Pine Mountain, GA 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
www.montgomeryparents.com
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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 2-July 21, with options for four, five, six and seven nights. Sample activities available for children and adults include. (Activities vary based on age groups).
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, Olympic-size swimming pool, nature center with interpretive programs and live animals, & over 19 miles of hiking & mountain biking trails.
Chewacla State Park
Georgia Aquarium
1-800-Callaway
www.callawaygardens.com
124 Shell Toomer Pkwy. Auburn 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. (334) 887.5621
www.alapark.com/Chewacla/
Coosa River Adventures
415 Company Street, Wetumpka 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 siton-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. Call for appointment. (334) 514.0279
www.coosariveradventures.com
DeSoto State Park
13883 County Road 89, Fort Payne, AL Nestled atop beautiful scenic Lookout Mountain in
(256) 845.0051
www.alapark.com/DeSotoResort
225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA 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 (404) 581.4000
www.georgiaaquarium.org
Horseshoe Bend Military Park
11288 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Daviston, AL 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. (256) 234.7111
https://www.nps.gov/hobe/index.htm
Imagine It! Children’s Hands on Museum
275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 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. (404) 659.KIDS
www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org
McWane Science Center
200 19th Street North, Atlanta GA Rates range $8.00-$18.00; Children under 2 Free; Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am- 6:00 pm, Sunday 12:00-6:00 (205) 714.8300
www.mcwane.org
Stone Mountain
U.S. Highway 78 East, Exit 8, Stone Mountain, GA Toddlers 2 and under Free, Discounts and annual passes available; Summer at the Rock! June 9-July 29; 10:30 am -8:00 pm. Summer at the Rock includes adventure and excitement for every member of the family. From fun filled attractions to special summer entertainment and the nightly Lasershow Spectacular in Mountainvision, it’s the perfect destination for you and your family to unplug and reconnect this summer. Experience Stone Mountain Park daily during Summer at the Rock. Board the Scenic Railroad and take a trip around the base of the Mountain. Challenge yourself on SkyHike, the nation’s largest family adventure course, or cool off and play in spray on Geyser Towers...the adventures are endless! Please visit our website for tickets options and pricing. 1- 800-401-2407
www.stonemountainpark.com
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Swayback Bridge Trail
Jordan Dam Road in Elmore County 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. (334) 567.9090
http://www.trailoflegends.org/
Windcreek State Park
4325 Alabama Highway 128, Alexander City, AL 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. (256) 329.0845
www.alapark.com/WindCreek
Educational/Training/ Miscellaneous Churchill Academy ad on page 28
395 Ray Thorington Road, Montgomery Tutoring available for summer. Grades K-12. Oneon-one tutoring. Call for rates. Times at parents’ convenience. (334) 270.4225
www.churchillacademy.net
Macon East Academy Educational Camps ad on page 19
15396 Vaughn Road, Montgomery July Jammin Educational Camp for Grades K5-6th, July 9-13 (334) 277.6566
www.maconeast.net
Summer School & Tutoring at Success Unlimited ad on page 37 and 73
4500 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Summer School, June 5-July 26. Call now to enroll. Enrollment is limited. Dress code required. Tutoring offered June 5-July 26. All grade levels. One on one time and Small Groups. $39 an hour. (334) 213-0803
www.suacademy.com
Sylvan Learning Center ad on page 14 and 41
2640 Zelda Rd, Montgomery 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. (334) 262.0043
www.sylvanlearning.com
White Gloves and Manners Matter Etiquette Course ad on page 81
160 West 3rd Street, Prattville The Prattvillian Room (downtown historic Prattville) This etiquette program is designed to help build a Montgomery Parents I May 2018
child’s confidence, develop an understanding of what positive communication skills are, and how using good manners can help one connect better with others, and ultimately, become a leader. Etiquette classes are for children ages 6 to 11 and cover the following topics: * Social and communication skills/ projecting confidence strengthening self-esteem, building leadership skills, * Skin care, nail care, hair care * Basic manners, Table manners * Modeling Techniques When: Thursdays beginning June 21st – July 26th 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Cost: $150 per child includes all supplies, notes and fashion show!
Horseback Riding
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ACT Boot Camp with Lee Gonet
MANE’s Unified Summer Camp
(334) 467.8603
www.cjsdancefactory.com
40 hours of testing and instruction for $200. Lee Gonet has created a unique method of having students take multiple practice tests, individually rework missed problems, and then review error types in group settings. This process has improved students’ scores dramatically, increasing ACT composites from 2 to 12 points in just a week’s time. This intensive prep class is Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 5:00, and includes book, practice tests, handouts, water, and snacks. www.leestestprep.com
Enjoy Learning Center
2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd., Suite H, Montgomery 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. (334) 625.9535
www.enjoylearningcenter.com
Huntington Learning Center
3251 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Individual testing and tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 - adult. (334) 277.9200
www.huntinghelps.com
MasterRead
2815-C Zelda Rd, Montgomery 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. (334) 271.6295
Golf 2600 Constitutional Avenue, Prattville Jr. Golf Camp, Date: 7 weeks of camps. June 5-8, June 12-15, June 26-29, July 10-13 and July 17-20. Boys and girls ages 6-14 welcome. www.rtjacademyofgolf.com
History
(334) 290.3727 or (334) 546.3964 www.shadetreeridingstables.com
3699 Wallahatchie Road, East Montgomery 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 ablebodied riders to learn about adaptive activities, acceptance and horses! MANE’s Unified Summer Camp will be held from 8:30 to 12pm Tuesday through Friday the weeks of July 10-13, July 1720, and July 24-27. Riders must be between the ages of 4-14. 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. Each week is limited to 12 riders and applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis. MANE must receive all mandatory paperwork and payment for a camper’s slot to be reserved. Deadline for application is June 24. (334) 213.0909
www.maneweb.org
Libraries Autauga Prattville Public Library
254 Doster Street, Prattville Preregister at any Autauga Prattville Public Library Branch Today! The Summer Reading Program is to encourage reading throughout the summer months. Children going into grades preschool-6th grade are invited to participate. Registration begins May 1st. Please call for dates and times. applkids@bellsouth.net
Millbrook Library
3650 Grandview Road, Millbrook Summer Reading Program for 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. (334) 285.6688
Montgomery Library
Old Alabama Town
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. (334) 240.4500
Shade Tree Riding Stables, Millbrook Camp dates: June 4-8, 11-15, 18-22. 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 for reservations. Ages: Ages 8-14
(334) 365.3396 www.appl.info
Robert Trent Jones/Capitol Hill Golf Trail
(334) 333.3300
ad on page 19
www.oldalabamatown.com
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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
212 S. Main Street, Wetumpka Summer program offered for grades 1 – 6. Meeting at Wetumpka Civic Center. Registration starts in
www.montgomeryparents.com
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May. Summer program offered for grades 7-12. Please call for dates and times. (334) 567.1308
Martial Arts Docarmo’s Summer Karate Camp ad on page 7
3447 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Around the World Camp June 18-22, 2018 Zoo/Animal Camp July 16-20, 2018 Beside all the fun games we will offer during camp, we will also have a daily arts & crafts activity as well as a daily science experiment. Bully Buster skills are also a part of our curriculum. At our Taekwondo Day Camps, children spend their day being physically active. As children spend so much time these days inside and mostly sitting down, camp provides a wonderful opportunity to move. At Docarmo’s Taekwondo, all of our camp students are not only learning great character benefits, but also have fun obstacle courses, great camp theme challenges, and awesome games to be involved in. Camp is action! Camp helps children build self-confidence and self-esteem by removing the kind of academic, athletic and social competition that shapes their lives at school. With its non-competitive activities and diverse opportunities to succeed, day camp is a real boost for young people. There are accomplishment every day. Day Camp teaches kids that they can. (334) 220.5835
www.trytkdfree.com
Camp NextGen at NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville
698 Old Farm Lane, Prattville All Camps are open to the community! 9am-5pm Cost for each weekly camp is $199 June 4-8: Hyper Trick School Camp - Kicks, Form and Tricking July 16-20: Level Up Camp - Traditional Forms, Kicks, Self Defense, Sparring & Breaking. Bring your own lunch and snacks. (334) 398.5968 todd@nextgenmartialarts.com www.nextgenmartialarts.com
Family Karate Center
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. We are the only Montgomery school with a Master degree Instructor who specializes in special need children. There is no extra cost for the special needs children. A FREE gift for all new enrollments. (334) 277.4911
Johnson Martial Arts Academy
2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J Summer Special 10 week Karate session, $175 and comes with FREE uniform and FREE registration. Specialty Camps will be offered this summer. Date to be announced. Please call for more details. (334) 284.2344
www.johnsonsmartialartsacademy.com
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Montgomery Taekwondo Center
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. Times at the PrattvilleBranch vary according to skill level and age. (334) 398.5968
Recreation Doster Center
424 South Northington Street, Prattville Summer Youth Camp, grades K - 6th, Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Swim lessons and swim team (enrollment limited). (334) 361.3640
www.prattvilleal.gov
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
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 $130 and Members $95 and The Teen Leadership League for ages 12 yrs. 14 yrs. $130 non-members; $105 members; $50 non-refundable registration fee for non-member and members. Non-refundable registration fees as above. (334) 279.8666
www.ymcamontgomery.org
Skating Eastdale Ice Rink/ K Lynn’s Skating School ad on page 20
Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Summer Monday Night Classes. Students receive 30 minutes of group class instruction and the remaining Eastdale Mall Ice Palace session time to practice. The 4-week class is $60. Times: 6:30 - 7:00 from ages 4 - 6 and 7:00 - 7:30 for ages 7 - 12. Private lessons and group lessons available. Call KLynn’s Skating School after 5 p.m. for lesson rates and schedules. (334) 272.7225
www.klynnice.com
Skate Zone 2000 LLC
88 Red Eagle Pkwy, Wetumpka Please call for Summer hours and rates. Please visit us on Facebook under Skate Zone 2000. (334) 567.4434 Wetumpka
Facebook under Skate Zone
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Soccer
Faulkner Sports Camps
FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal ad on page 75
Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery (indoor/air conditioned) Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach - Masters Phys. Ed.) Dates: May28-June 1, June 11-15, June 25-29, July 9-13 and July 30-Aug. 3, 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! (334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com www.fcmontgomery.com
YMCA Montgomery Soccer Complex 300 Brown Springs Road Summer Soccer Academy/Camps Mini-Kickers (Ages 4-5): June 11-15, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Skill Development Academy (Ages 7-17) July 11-15, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and June 18-22, 9a.m. to 12 p.m.; Goal Keeping (Ages 8-17): July 9-13, 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. All Camps will be held at the YMCA Soccer Complex.
5345 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery Hal Wynn, 386.7285, softball camp; Dates TBA Patrick McCarthy, 386.7980, baseball; Dates: Youth Camp (ages 5-17), June 11-14 and June 18-21; Eagle Elite Spring Showcase, May 6 for 15-18 year olds. Scott Sanderson, 386.7159, basketball camp; Session I: Ages 5-18 June 18-21; Session II: Ages 5-18 June 25-28 (broken down into 2 age brackets) Pritchard Ndaira, 386.7162, Girls soccer camp; TBA Tori Bartels, 386.7149, Volleyball Camp; Dates TBA Shayne Wasden, 386.7671, Football Camp; Dates TBA Kyle Beard, 386.7162, Men’s soccer; Dates TBA Jerry Overman, 386.7208, Golf; Dates TBA Reed Sutton, 386.7509, Women’s Basketball; Session I: Lady Eagle Future Stars (ages 6-10), June 9; Session II: Lady Eagle Basic Training (ages 1018), June 11-14; Session III: Basketball University (ages 12-18), June 15-16; Session IV: Elite Camp, June 15 (334) 386.7148
www.faulkner.edu
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Saint James Sports Camps ad on page 1
6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery 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 (334) 277.8033, ext. 145. Keith Luckey Baseball Camp; 1st -5th grade, June 4-6; Keith Luckey Baseball Camp; 6th grade and above, June 4-6; Baseball Pitching Clinic for 5th grade and up, June 7; Katie Barton Girls Basketball Camp for 2nd – 8th, June 4-7; Nigel Card Boys Basketball Camp for 4th – 8th grade, June 11-14; Mark Hall Softball Camp for 2nd – 8th grade, June 18-21; Jeff Corley Wrestling Camp for 3rd – 8th grade, June 25-28; Karen Lee Volleyball Camp, July 9-11; Saint James Youth Cheerleader Camp for Pre-K3 – 6th grade, July 23-26; Jimmy Perry Boys Football Camp, Ages 5-13, July 30-August 1 (334) 277.8033, ext. 145
www.stjweb.org
AUM Soccer I.D. Camp
AUM Soccer Complex, Montgomery May 19-20; The camp is for boys, ages 15 and older are welcome and will cost $150 dollars per camper. (334) 244.3617
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Huntingdon College Baseball Camp
1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery Showcase Skills Camp: May 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fundamentals Camp: May 29-31; Ages 5-15; 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. (334) 833.4501 tion/Camps
www.huntingdonhawks.com/informa-
Huntingdon Basketball Camp
1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery Boys and Girls ages 6-17 Be Strong Skills Academy: June 1-3, 9-12th grade. Basketball Skills Camp: June 11-12 (6th-8th grade), June 13-14 (9th-12th grade), June 25-28 (Ages 6-17 and June 23-26 (ages 6-17). (334) 833-4399 or (334) 652.4465 www.huntingdonbasketballcamp.com
Huntingdon College Youth Football Camp
1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery Ages: 6 - 12 years old; Dates and Times: June 4-7 7:30 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. (334) 833.4322
www.huntingdonhawks.com
Huntingdon Softball Camp
1500 East Fairview Avenue Campers will be instructed in: fielding fundamentals, base running, hitting, pitching, catching and
www.montgomeryparents.com
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Young Meadows Sports Camp
5780 Vaughn Road Sports Camp is our Vacation Bible School held June 4-8 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. (334) 244.1385
www.youngmeadows.org
Swim Adventure Sports ad on page 27
1546 East Ann St., Montgomery 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. (334) 269.DIVE (3483)
www.adventuresports2.com
Swim Prep ad on page 18
Private one-on-one lessons for ages 6 months and up. Located in Prattville and Montgomery. Contact Jeffrey Nichols, Certified Aquatic Instructor. (334) 375.2023 jeffrey@swimprepllc.com www.swimprepllc.com
Pratt Park, Prattville
460 Doster Road, Prattville 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. (334) 361.3640
www.prattvilleal.gov
YMCA Branches
Summer Swim Leagues 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 Prattville YMCA, 600 Main Street, 365.8852 Wetumpka YMCA, Red Eagle Dr., 567.8282.
Tennis O’Connor Tennis Camps ad on page 49
500 Anderson Street, Montgomery Dates: June 4-7, 11-14, 18-21, 25-28 and July 9-12, 16-19, 23-26 (All classes Monday thru Thursday from 9 am to 11 am) Advance registration, $100 per week. (334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com www.oconnortenniscenter.com mp
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A Page in a Book Loving the Local Library From ancient times when clay tablets and scrolls were collected together for scholarly use to today’s immense digital collections, libraries have evolved into vital collection points for science, history, culture and stories that reflect the human experience. As perhaps the most inquisitive humans of all, children are important patrons of our modern libraries. Free and entertaining, today’s libraries strive to provide exciting opportunities that introduce new readers to their collections. The following titles celebrate the library and its welcoming service to every young mind in search of stories - old and new.
Willy’s Stories
by Anthony Browne (Candlewick Press) Every week, Willy passes through the doors that send him on amazing adventures. Told in the first person, the main character, Willy, uses each two-page spread to relate his personalized adventures that launched from behind those doors, each tale left open-ended with an opportunity for the reader to contribute their thoughts on the action. Inspired by tales from the famous authors of children’s literature, each narrative offers a taste of stories that demand further exploration and invite readers to pass through ‘the doors’ near them. Without mentioning the word ‘library’ once, Browne’s rich storytelling and illustrations easily convey the wellspring of stories that launch Willy’s flights of imagination - and where young readers can also find the ultimate source of adventure.
A Big Surprise for Little Card
by Charise Mericle Harper, Illustrated by Anna Raff (Candlewick) Living among fellow cards who each have a very specialized task, Little Card is eager for the day when he discovers what job he will be selected to perform. When Little Card is sent to Happy Birthday Card school for training, he’s elated to learn all the tricks of the celebration trade. But a mix-up in assignments reveals that Little Card was not supposed to be a Birthday Card and he’s whisked away to a building full of books to perform his true task. While his loud “Happy Birthday” shout must be muted, Little Card soon discovers that the fun activities and the rainbow of books in his new environment offer all new adventures to celebrate. An ideal introduction to kids who are about to receive their first library card, this title also offers a gentle primer on best behaviors in a library setting.
The New LiBEARian
by Alison Donald, Illustrated by Alex Willmore (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) The children are all in place for storytime at the library, but Ms. Merryweather who reads the stories is late. Restless and ready for a story, the assembled kids disperse to find their missing storyteller. Ranging through the maze of bookshelves they discover paw prints leading to the librarian’s desk (which is sticky with honey). And sitting in Ms. Merryweather’s chair is a new librarian, a big character covered in fur with not much to say. The kids clamor for a story but the new librarian’s storytelling style consists mostly of roars, growls and stomping. When Ms. Merryweather returns, apologizing for her delay, she’s ready to read ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ to the children. But the picture book is missing one of its most important characters! With a sweet twist at the end for observant fans of fables and storytime, ‘The New Libearian’ offers a wink and a nod to the immersive nature of group storytelling at the library. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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One of the pitfalls of having holidays that focus on giving gifts to others is that we become a society of scorecard keepers. How did I do? Did I get more gifts than last year? Were the gifts given with genuine sincerity or did I sense feelings of obligation? Do I measure how others treat me as proof of how worthy I am? Here’s a little secret about gift giving and receiving on any occasion, moms. It’s not a competition. You are not the best mom ever if you get the most presents. You are the best mom ever if you let yourself feel good about the job you are doing every day, even on the most challenging days. And if you want a gift, whether you feel you deserve something special or simply because you think you should always feel treasured, go ahead and give yourself one. Be generous with yourself every time of year and others will follow suit during special times. Being a great mom means putting your needs first, instead of delegating that job to others and feeling resentful if they let you down. Here’s a little secret: other people can’t let you down if you don’t let yourself down. So pick yourself up during the mom-gifting time of year with a little reward for yourself. You always deserve something special just for being you.
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Foofy drinks. For her birthday lunch my daughter wanted
Self-care. A quick nap. A long bath with bath salts and
Exposure to nature. The civilized world gallops at a break-
Fresh flowers. Flowers are love. Love grows in the yard and I’m always expanding that repertoire of choices. Others come from small bouquets at the market I can mix and match. If you are feeling cynical about the gift of flowers, try a more playful approach.
Your favorite books and magazines. Few things make me cheerier than a glossy new seasonal magazine. Books inspire movies in our minds. Even the Internet with all of its diverse content cannot replace my insatiable thirst for hunkering down, one spread at a time, and escaping into artfully photographed and delightfully designed magazine pages. Don’t ever deprive yourself of your daily allotment of mental escape.
Scents you love. Jasmine. Lemon. Rose. Cinnamon. Juniper. Cookies fresh from the oven! You control your environment, so make it smell wonderful to you.
a tropical drink with a tiny umbella in it. And you deserve a tiny umbrella too, mom. Or maybe a dollop of whipped dream with a chocolate swirl or a little heart design atop your coffee foam.
bubbles. Saying no to everything that does not feel like a yes. Asking for hugs. I’d be willing to bet that moms who practice self-care live longer. For sure, they live happier.
neck pace. But nature helps us slow down to the incremental speed of life. The seeds we plant don’t sprout overnight. And we can regain our patience and our pacing by frequent exposure to the earth, air, sun, and stars.
Self-expression. Be your insouciant self today and every day. What does this mean to you? If you are holding your breath, biting your tongue, biding your time, or practicing any other delay tactics that prevent you from living your life with the volume cranked up, seek assistance. Get around folks who lure you out of your shell and validate all the gifts you have to offer the world.
Belly laughs. I was on the phone with an old friend the
other day and the laughs just came cascading out. Nothing like chuckling over old antics or sharing a giggle with someone who has known you forever. Get your kicks in whatever way works for you and the cascading endorphins are an extra, feel-good bonus. Streaming sitcoms or reading comics also works well in a pinch.
Surprises. Don’t wait for others to catch you off guard.
Delight yourself with little impulsive decisions that make you happy now. A surprise isn’t just a big, painstakingly planned party. It’s at least 20 opportunities a day to be sweeter to yourself. Go ahead, choose differently. mp
Delicious food. Keep at-home copies of your favorite take-
out menus. Sometimes mom needs someone else to do the meal prep, cooking, and serving. Besides, sitting down to be waited on every once in a while is a great way to power up your inner chef. Bon appétit!
Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz definitely deserves more treats in her life. Luckily she never feels deprived because she gives herself enough to keep herself feeling fortunate.
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Coding Fun for Digital Age Kids
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
Toys and games offer maximum value when they teach new skills, when they stretch muscles both physical and mental. With more of our everyday lives connected to computers, apps and smart technology, the future is increasingly dictated by code. Introducing the basic concepts of coding to children not only gives them an early advantage in the future jobs landscape, but also teaches critical thinking skills, problem solving and tenacity. Coding also offers kids a sense of empowerment when they begin to grasp and implement the basics of coding, as they learn the secrets that drive the software, apps and websites they use everyday. The following items are entertaining introductions to coding for kids with an eye on the future.
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by Gerry Paige Smith
COJI: The Coding Robot Toy
Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set
Before they dig into actual coding languages, kids can explore programming the COJI robot with a language they already understand... emoji! Combining emoticons and other familiar electronic symbols with arrows and images, youngsters can use this universal language to control their COJI. Using a smartphone or tablet with the COJI app, kid quickly pick up the way to ‘code’ commands that will have the robot moving, sounding off, and responding with emoji on its screen ‘face’. Just like with any coding, much of the process is trial-and-error, but COJI’s hilarious responses to mistakes will keep kids engaged while they master their troubleshooting skills. Not limited to device engagement, COJI can operate without the app or after screen time has ended. Accessible for kids regardless of reading level or math skills, COJI: The Coding Robot Toy is an early coding confidence builder!
While the irony of teaching code with a mouse isn’t lost on parents who depended on a mouse before touch screens arrived, the notion of coding a ‘mouse’ to navigate a maze is perfect for engaging kids as they program their way to success. Using a customizable maze board with walls and tunnels, the simple controls on the back of the mouse lets users plan its path. This coding set includes 16 maze grids, 22 maze walls, 3 tunnels, 30 double-sided coding cards, 10 doublesided activity cards, cheese wedge, and activity guide to provide a hands-on introduction to coding concepts. Young coders can also take the action off grid, creating original obstacles and paths with pillows, toys or anything the Code & Go Mouse can scoot around. Excellent for cultivating children’s ability to estimate distance and predict outcomes, each new coding of the robot mouse builds confidence and gets them one step closer to programming their own path to a bright future!
(Wowee)
(Learning Resources)
Future Coders Poppin’ Pictures
Let’s Go Code
(Learning Resources) The youngest set can dip their toes into the world of coding in a non-digital way, free of electronic screens with the Let’s Go Code game! Using double-sided pictorial ‘coding cards’ kids can plan their desired path and formulate the strategic moves that will get them to their destination. The cards dictate the players’ actions, their forward strides, pivots and other moves “coded” to get them to the finish. Featuring 16 EVA foam mats, 20 coding cards, and fun die-cut pieces, the set includes a full-color guide with a coding overview and maze examples to get kids started. Flexing physical and mental muscles, this engaging exercise in basic coding is a fun and forward-thinking introduction to programming for the kindergarten set!
(Alex Toys)
Described in broad strokes, code is a representation of something else. While it may seem incomprehensible in its basic form, code can translate into a recognizable element when it reaches its end point. Future Coders Poppin’ Pictures demonstrates this process using a series of coded tiles. Using a suction cup pen, kids follows a coded ‘map’ as they place tiles onto a grid in a variety of configurations. When complete, the correctly placed tiles resolve into a picture. It’s a great introduction to representational thinking while fostering concentration and patience. Supporting important pre-programming skills like sequencing and analytical thinking, Poppin’ Pictures offers right-brain fun seasoned with some rigorous left-brain exercises.
Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com
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New Medicare Cards Arriving Summer 2018 7 things to know about your new Medicare card: • Your Medicare Number is unique: Your card has a new number instead of your Social Security Number. • Your new card is paper: Paper cards are easier for many providers to use and copy, and they save taxpayers a lot of money. • Destroy your old Medicare card: Do not discard the old card until you have used the new one, to ensure it works with healthcare providers. • Keep your new card with you: Carry your new card and show it to your healthcare providers when you need care.
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• You can find your number: If you forget your new card, you, your doctor or other healthcare provider may be able to look up your Medicare Number online.
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• Keep your Medicare Advantage Card: If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), your Medicare Advantage Plan ID card is your main card for Medicare – you should still keep and use it whenever you need care. However, you also may be asked to show your new Medicare card, so you should carry this card, too.
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• Help is available: If you don’t get your new Medicare card by April 2019, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
Be on the lookout for SCAMS with the new Medicare card. Don’t give personal information to get your card. Medicare will never call you uninvited and ask you to give personal information over the phone. Scam artists may try to get personal information (like your current Medicare Number) by contacting you about your new card. Medicare will also never make a home visit. Don’t pay for your new card. If someone asks you for your information, for money, or threatens to cancel your health benefits if you don’t share your personal information, hang up and call us at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or your Senior Medicare Patrol at your local Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-243-5463. Guard your card: Only give your new Medicare Number to doctors, pharmacists, other healthcare providers, your insurers, or people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf. 87
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents This project was supported, in part by grant number 90MP0238 from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201 and the Alabama Department of Senior Services.
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Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero
Miracle Season
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: BSexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: ASometimes a boy adopts a stray dog, other times the stray dog adopts the boy. The latter is the case for Robert Conroy (voice of Logan Lerman), a young soldier who shows a little kindness to a homeless, mix-breed bull terrier, and is then followed back to boot camp. Unable to shake the pup’s affection, Robert eventually accepts his offer of belonging and names the short-tailed mutt Stubby. Fortunately, the animal’s good nature, positive effect on morale, ability to perform military drills and even salute, also wins over Robert’s commanding officers at the Yale University training grounds for the Great War. It isn’t until the regiment reaches the front lines in France, on 5 February 1918, that Stubby’s real value is discovered. Unafraid of the loud shelling and gunfire, the little dog patrols the trenches, sniffs out trouble, and even rescues the wounded left for dead in the no-man’s-land between the opposing forces. Over time, Stubby’s acts of valor are recognized and he becomes the first pooch to receive the rank of Sargent. Based on a remarkable true story, this animation about the big accomplishments of a little dog provides a great way to introduce children to the history of World War I. Although the movie includes depictions of weapons use, gas attacks and the flu pandemic of 1918, along with resulting injuries and deaths, all of the violence is sanitized. These non-graphic and bloodless portrayals offer parents a family-friendly opportunity to discuss the serious nature of the challenges faced by those on the battlegrounds.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: ASexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ Sean McNamara (the director of Soul Surfer ) helms yet another top-flight sports movie closely based on a true story. The Miracle Season delivers an entertaining experience to viewers of all ages, along with powerful messages of hope and determination. Coming off their first win as state champions, the girls on the Iowa City West High School volleyball team may be excited to be back on the court, but they also know how to have fun with their sport. The primary advocate of having a ball while playing the game is team setter Caroline Found (Danika Yarosh), better known simply as “Line”. The effervescent blonde excitedly begins her senior year bouncing about the school’s campus with her best friend Kelly (Erin Moriarty), who also plays on the team. Contrasting Line’s unabashed enthusiasm is their coach, Kathy Bresnahan (Helen Hunt). Her serious demeanor keeps the girls focused. Then the unthinkable happens. Riding a borrowed moped, Line leaves a gathering of friends and has an accident that takes her life. Back on the court, Coach Bresnahan isn’t sure how to bring the team back together, let alone play a new season. Yet, she feels the game may be just what her grieving students need – as hard as it may be. Using Line’s legacy for motivation, Bresnahan convinces the girls to return and practice setting up the complicated plays that have made the coach one of the best in the country. One of the best family films we’ve reviewed in a while, Caroline Found, her teammates, coach and parents provide inspiring role models that, thanks to this cinematic adaptation, will continue to uplift lives for years to come.
Rampage
Truth or Dare
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: D+ Sexual Content: B Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: APark your brains at the door, grab a big popcorn and be prepared to suspend belief with this monster mayhem movie. With not one, but three, genetically modified beasts destroying downtown Chicago, it’s assumed violence will be the biggest issue for kids wanting to see Dwayne Johnson tame a 20 foot tall gorilla. Blood and some gory moments accompany lots and lots of shooting, most aimed at the gigantic creatures, using a slew of military weapons. Toss in a generous supply of scatological slang and other profanities, an ongoing finger gesture joke, and you have the makings of a PG-13 actioner. It’s intended to please those who are forgiving of a dumb story and sad acting – although Johnson does a fairly good job of squeezing lemonade from this sour script. The party begins when things go wrong with a science experiment orbiting the earth. One of the test samples crash-lands in George’s habitat, causing the gorilla’s appetite, temper and frame to grow faster than the national debt. Meanwhile, the audience also knows George isn’t alone. A wolf in Colorado and an alligator in Florida have also sniffed the DNA-modifying grow-gas and are waging their own threats. Very loosely based on an arcade video game from the days when gorilla’s looked like Donkey Kong, Rampage badly wants to be fun. Yet it gets bogged down in trying to convince viewers that the world really is in danger. For those who’ve already seen enough Kong-esque movies, this one’s just more of the same monkey business.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: D Violence: D Sexual Content: D+ Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: CPlaying a game of “Truth or Dare” during spring break (does anything good ever happen in movies during spring break?) a group of friends end up in a deadly exchange that is blamed on a spiritual force. In reality, the script is just an excuse to portray suicides, violence and sex because “the devil made me do it!” Of course, this game of Truth or Dare is going to have drastic real-world consequences, and the challenges are not controlled by the participants. Instead an evil spirit overtakes each player and all are forced to take a turn. Truths involve deeply personal and emotional revelations, and dares are a combination of highly dangerous, illegal, sexual and violent actions. Using the typically malevolent game, the story creates scenarios that would be unthinkable in any other circumstance. Physical harm toward others, self-inflicted wounds and deaths are had with guns, knives and other objects. Audiences with sensitivities for portrayals of suicide should be especially cautious. Characters are forced to have sex (which we see in more detail than necessary – including some brief female side nudity), streak (rear male nudity) and make out together (a “bi-curious” female with a non-willing female). Added to this are other sexual discussions with a penchant toward non-committal relationships involving all genders. Perhaps the best message we can extract from Truth or Dare is its exploration of honesty between friends. Yet you can find similar messages in far better media than this excuse for teen entertainment.
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ADT Co-Hosts Regional Ballet Festival
The Alabama Dance Theatre is co-hosting the Regional Dance America/ Southeastern Regional Ballet Association (RDA/SERBA) Festival, along with Southeast Alabama Dance Company of Dothan. This year’s festival will be held May 2-5 at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa and The Montgomery Performing Arts Center. At the festival ADT dancers, along with 650 participants from nine states throughout the Southeast, will have the opportunity to take ballet, pointe, pas de deux, modern, musical theatre, jazz and hip hop classes from nationally recognized faculty. They also attend seminars on relevant subjects such as auditioning, choosing a college dance program, stage make-up and body alignment. The three evening performances feature some of the nation’s finest dancers. Sara Sanford’s “Stardust” was selected to be performed on the Saturday evening Gala by adjudicator Jeffrey Gribbler. “Stardust” will be danced by Aloria Adams, Abigail Barr, Jonathan Chapman, Celeste Deale, Mary Olivia Dudley, Emily Efferson, Amelia Felder, Savannah Golden, Ahsha Gray, Nick Hagelin, Francie Hill, Karen Licari, Sarah Messick, Maya Pegues, Abigail Perkinson and Virginia Perry.
Level 2 United Gymstars Undefeated Season
These girls won five regular season meets and are the Alabama USA Gymnastics State Meet Champions. They train 4-5 hours per week. Members of the team include: Campbell Hicks, Evan Knight, MarySurhea White, Sydney Haynes, Sarah Turvey, Alexa Anderson, Elley Goff, Sidney Harris, Addison Weston, Frances Bach, Mirette Bixby, Haleigh Morris, Alena Porco, Olivia Donaldson, Julia Mathis, KinsleeGrace Taylor, Sophie Hemphill, Cate Harrison and Trynity Sorenson.
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Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection Goes for the Gold at Platinum National Dance Competition
Maya Pegues’s contemporary ballet, “The Healing,” was chosen to be performed on the Emerging Choreographer’s Program on Thursday evening. “The Healing” will be danced by Amelia Felder, Aloria Adams, Abigail Barr, Sarah Messick, Francie Hill, Virginia Perry and Savannah Golden. Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings performances are open to the public. Thursday’s Emerging Choreography Concert is at 7:30 p.m., Friday’s Concert and Saturday’s Gala are at 7 p.m. For tickets, call (334) 625-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com. The performances will be held at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Shown is Sarah Messick in “Stardust.” Photo by David Robertson, Jr.
The dance studio had 41 dancers who competed in March. Thirty-six members of the DC Strutters between the ages of 10 and 18 competed in Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop & Contemporary! Competition instructors are Meredith Peden, Mary Katherine Golson, Ashley Duncan, Anne Preston Bullock, Sarah Lochridge, Quan Littleton and Tonya Speed.
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FamilyCalendar This Month
Wednesday, May 2
Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. 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. Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also May 16 & June 6 Noon-1 p.m. Does your yoga practice need a little artistic inspiration? Join us for this new program to stretch, reflect and relax. Each Artful Yoga session will draw inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the Museum. Led by instructor Nancy Beale. The class is free and suitable for all levels; beginners are welcome. Bring your yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ discover/artful-yoga/ or call (334) 240-4333. Alabama Dance Theatre Co-hosts the Regional Dance America/Southeastern Regional Ballet Association (RDA/SERBA) Festival -- Through May 5 Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa and The Montgomery Performing Arts Center. This prominent festival brings dancers from the entire Southeast together. Student dancers can attend classes with renowned faculty, perform as a company, audition and be seen by prestigious companies and schools around the nation. They also attend seminars on subjects such as auditioning, choosing a college dance program, stage make-up and body alignment. Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings performances are open to the public. Thursday’s concert is at 7:30 p.m., Friday’s concert and Saturday’s gala are at 7 p.m. For tickets or more info, call (334) 625-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com.
Thursday, May 3
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Hope and Wooten. A race against the clock begins when Savannah Sprunt Fairchild Honeycutt agrees to get her feisty mother all the way from Alabama to California in time for her brother’s wedding. Savannah’s problem: Mama won’t fly. With only four days to make it to the ceremony, this determined daughter has no choice but to drive cross-country with her equally willful mother, Norleen Sprunt, in Mama’s vintage sedan. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheater.com/. Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Presents Fences Through May 6 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Written by August Wilson; directed by Georgette Norman. Winner of 1987 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and winner of 2010 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play. Troy Maxson has gone through life in a country where to be proud and black was to face pressures that could crush a man, body and soul. Fences explores the issues of racial segregation, socially and economically, as well as the heart of a family: fathers and sons, husbands and wives, dreams deferred, and hopes for the future. Recommended for ages 14+. For more info, visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.
Friday, May 4
Faulkner University Spring Commencement Ceremony 10 a.m. All Degree Programs. Garrett Coliseum, 1555 Federal Drive, Montgomery. Graduates MUST arrive 1 hour prior to their ceremony for preparation & instructions. 2018 Redland Eagles Open Golf Tournament Aroostook Golf Course, Montgomery. Registration/ lunch 11 a.m.; tee time 1 p.m. 18-hole scramble. $350/team (4/per team) or $87.50 for individual
some pizza afterwards. Join the force in your Light Side and Dark Side Gear! Call (334) 356-7271 or find us on Facebook for more info. Wetumpka FFA Championship Rodeo -- Also May 5 Gates will open at 6:30 p.m., and the eight events will begin at 8 p.m. at the Wetumpka Sports Complex, 2350 Coosa River Parkway. Various other side attractions for spectators such as a petting zoo, mechanical bull and multiple vendors. All of the proceeds from this rodeo will go directly to the Wetumpka FFA Alumni Chapter to assist their efforts to better the education of the students at Wetumpka High School FFA Chapter. This is a career technical organization that teaches students different farming techniques, horticulture, construction, welding, electrical methods and plumbing. For more info, visit www.elmoreautauganews.com/. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Twelfth Night -- Also May 5 Shipwrecked twins become separated yet both wash ashore on the coast of Illyria. Unaware of the other’s existence in the same strange land, their trials and tribulations with love ultimately reunite the siblings. Mistaken identities abound in this rambunctious romp, which is one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies. Recommended for ages 12+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353. Live Music at The Tipping Point -- Also May 11, 18 & 25; and June 1 7-11 p.m. The Tipping Point, 5015 Hampstead High St., Montgomery. The Tipping Point hosts live music every Friday night. Come hear some great music in a fun, relaxed setting. Follow The Tipping Point on Facebook for its weekly music acts.
Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!
Book Talk at the Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Noon. 624 Washington Avenue, Montgomery. Topic is 1865 Alabama: From Civil War to Uncivil Peace, presented by Chris McIlwain. For more info, visit archives.alabama.gov or call (334) 353-4726.
Wetumpka Depot Presents One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest -- Through May 5 7:30 p.m. performances. Written by Dale Wasserman; directed by Cory Lawson. In a mental hospital, Nurse Ratched runs a disciplined ward. When ex-con Randall McMurphy enters, with a love of gambling, sex and confrontation, the ward begins to unravel from Ratched’s reign. Told through a foggy haze of Chief Bromden’s hallucinations, the play raises the need to question authority and refuse the institutional dulling of the human spirit. (Adult language and content.) For tickets, call (334) 8681440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Mama Won’t Fly -- Also May 4-6 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Directed by Stephanie McGuire; written by Jones,
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
golfers. Mulligans $10 each (limit 2). Golfer registration fee includes green fees, cart rental, goody bag and lunch. Win $250 cash closest to the pin on Hole 17! Proceeds will be used to purchase educational resources and running/walking track for Redland Elementary School in Wetumpka. Elmore County Agriculture Career Day 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Elmore County Extensions Office. Around 350 students from Elmore County high schools will meet with various businesses and individuals who will talk about the career opportunities in the agriculture field. We are looking to show kids that there is a wide variety of careers in agriculture, some that require a four-year degree and some that do not. For more info, call (334) 567-6301 or e-mail Mitchk1@aces.edu. May the Fourth 4K 6:30 p.m. from Union Station in downtown Montgomery. Join Montgomery Multisport for a Star Warsthemed run and then hit up Mellow Mushroom for
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Saturday, May 5
A Night Honoring Alabama’s Musical Legacy 6 p.m. silent auction; 7 p.m. dinner and program. Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill, Prattville. The Prattville Creative and Performing Arts Council will host this annual Honoree Dinner exploring various players who have impacted the music industry both locally and nationally. Tickets are $50. For more info, call (334) 595-0854. Pike Road’s 7th Annual Crawfish Boil 10 a.m.-7 p.m., The Waters Town Square. Hosted by Pike Road Patriot Fund to provide financial assistance for the Athletics and Arts Programs of the Pike Road Schools. Bring your lawn chairs, coolers and friends for an afternoon of live music, face painting, hot dogs, hamburgers and more than 1,000 pounds of crawfish. There’s something for the whole family! $25 if you purchase tickets in advance or $30 on the day of the event. Free for kids 11 and under. For tickets or more info, find us on Facebook.
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FamilyCalendar 2018 Montgomery Kidney Walk Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.; walk at 9:30. Join hundreds of Alabama Kidney Foundation supporters at Baptist Health DeBoer Building. The morning will be filled with live entertainment, door prizes, children’s activities and much more! No cost to attend. If you would like a T-shirt, a $30 donation is desired. Call Pam at (334) 430-8716 or visit http:// alkidney.org/ for more info. 4th Annual Unified Doubles Play Day Hosted by Dream Court Montgomery 9 a.m.-1 p.m. O’Connor Tennis Center, 500 Anderson St. Come and participate as a unified tennis partner, volunteer or spectator as we celebrate the tennis of selected athletes from Montgomery, Dothan and Atlanta. Each doubles team will consist of one athlete (individual with special needs) paired with a partner (traditional tennis player volunteer). The day of tennis will include lunch and awards ceremony. No registration fee for athletes or partners! For more info, call (334) 414-1980 or visit www.dreamcourt. org. Capital of Dreams Triathlon 7:30 a.m. 355 Commerce Street, Montgomery. There will be two races, an Intermediate (1.5k Swim/40k Bike/10k Run) and a Sprint (400m Swim/20k Bike/5k Run) option offered for adults. From the swim starting on the Harriott II Riverboat on the Alabama River to the bike staging area at the covered Union Station Train
Shed to a race finish + post-race celebration at the Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Field, this is an awesome atmosphere for racing and for family and friends to cheer you on! Visit www.team-magic.com or e-mail: races@team-magic.com. Montgomery Zoo Volunteer Serve Day 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. We are asking volunteers to help with landscaping, trimming bushes, planting flowers, raking leaves, painting, and overall prepping the Zoo for the Summer season. Volunteers can be adults, teens, civic groups, school groups, church groups, businesses, military squadrons, and families. Volunteers ages 12-16 years old must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian or a designated group chaperone. For more info or to register, call (334) 625-4900 or register at www. montgomeryzoo.com/. Wetumpka Community Expo 2018 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wetumpka’s biggest outdoor community expo! Great exposure for your products and services throughout downtown streets: E. Bridge, Court, Hill & Company streets. Businesses, arts and crafts booths, food vendors welcome. $50 booth fee for a 10 x 10 space. Bring your own tent, table & chairs. Car show & music! For more info, visit www.wetumpkachamber.com/. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Flimp Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Family-friendly day of fun featuring hands-on artmaking projects and interactive entertainment from Booker T. Washington Magnet High School, with dance, theatrical and musical performances, a treasure hunt, the ever-popular chalk art contest, food and more! This year’s theme will be Gulf Coast Jubilee. The Do-Dah Pet Parade
will award prizes in adult and child categories based on costume creativity and the Gulf Coast Jubilee theme. Admission is $3/children, $5/adults and $15/ family. Free to museum members, city and county workers, and active duty military and their immediate family. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ discover/flimp-festival/ or call (334) 240-4333. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Miracle Worker -- Also May 6 This classic is based on the true story of Anne Sullivan and her student, blind and mute Helen Keller, who grew up in Tuscumbia, Ala. Trapped in her own world, Helen is unable to communicate. Anne realizes there is a mind and spirit waiting to be rescued from the dark silence, and her success with Helen finally comes with the utterance of a single, glorious word: “water.” Recommended ages 9+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Much Ado About Nothing -- Also May 6 At the heart of this Shakespearean comedy is the delightfully antagonistic relationship of Beatrice and Benedict, who enjoy a witty repartee that skewers the character of the other until they have to join forces to save the day when innocent young lovers are threatened by a common enemy. Recommended ages 11+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353. Old Cahawba Bird Walk for Beginners (& History Buffs) 8-10 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Learn the basics of bird identification from an experienced birder on this easy two-hour walk through historic Old Cahawba Archaeological Park. Meet at the visitor’s center, rain
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FamilyCalendar or shine, and bring your binoculars and bird guide if you’ve got them. ($8 per person). Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www. facebook.com/oldcahawba. Tour of Lanark Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook Hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced ANC naturalist by your side. Saturday programs are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Guests encouraged to arrive by 10 a.m. to enjoy the first of the day’s activities. Take a look around the hands-on Discovery Hall, enjoy the movie specials in the theater, and explore the trails. General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is build a windmill planter. Discuss the benefits of nonpolluting sustainable energy and build a model windmill that holds a beautiful seasonal flower or low maintenance herb just in time for Mother’s Day. Once the project is built, your child can decorate it with stickers and paint. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://workshops. homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also May 12, 19 & 26; June 2 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3-8. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. May 5 is Mother’s Day card; May 12 is Flower Bouquet for Mom; May 19 is Fingerprint Pineapple; May 26 is Paper Flamingo; and June 2 is Sloth. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes -- Every Saturday 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. 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.
Sunday, May 6
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit with special guest Richard Thompson 8 p.m. Simply put, Jason has a gift for taking big, messy human experiences and compressing them into combustible little packages made of rhythm, melody and madly efficient language. Tickets begin at $31. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Music in May at The Waters, Pike Road -Also May 13, 20 & 27 4-6 p.m. 201 Waters View Drive, Pike Road. Looking for a fun family event this spring? We’ll have LIVE MUSIC at The Square each Sunday. Bring your family and friends out for a fun afternoon! May 6: Doctor Ocular; May 13: Rachael Wilson; May 20: John Emil Music; and May 27: Anthony Oliver. For more info, call (334) 272-3200 or find us on Facebook.
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Cloverdale-Idlewild Spring Concert Series -Also May 13, 20 & 27 4 p.m. Cloverdale Bottom Park, intersection of Cloverdale Road and Ponce de Leon Avenue, Montgomery. Everyone is welcome to this free event, so bring your friends and family. Leashed dogs are also welcome, so bring your furry babies as well. Bring your chairs or blankets, coolers and snacks. Plan to sit under the beautiful oak trees in the park setting and enjoy the music. May 6 - Federal Expression; May 13 - Fibergrass; May 20 - Blue Yonder; and May 27 - The Marvtones. Find us on Facebook. Music On The Deck – Also May 20 4:30 p.m. Kowaliga Restaurant, Lake Martin. Great, live music on the deck with Richard Murray and Rusty Brown on May 6 and Kurt McKinney and Chuck Lofton on May 20! We’ll have some great appetizers, drinks and your favorite Kowaliga entrees! Visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019. First Sundays at One -- Also June 3
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 docent-led tours the FIRST Sunday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
Wednesday, May 9
Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/. Military Wednesdays at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball -- Also May 30 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Every Wednesday the Biscuits will honor our service men and women throughout the game with special recognition and more! Check out our Specialty Ticket Packages page to learn more about our Military Ticket Pack where members of the military can get 10 undated tickets, food bucks and a special military gift for just $80! For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.
Thursday, May 10
Cloverdale Playhouse Theater’s Improv Intensive! -- Through June 9 Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. Learn the fun art of improv with experienced teachers and have a lot of fun while you’re at it! Ages 16+. For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/ or call (334) 262-1530. Taste of the Gardens 2018 5-8 p.m. Presented by Southern Homes & Gardens (SH&G) and the American Red Cross, as a benefit for the American Red Cross, held annually at SH&G on Vaughn Road, Montgomery. The event includes a silent auction featuring works from local artists; tastings from the River Region’s finest restaurants & caterers; wine and live music. Also, during the Taste of the Gardens event, SH&G will offer 20% off all non-sale items in the store. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at SH&G or from the American Red Cross of Central Alabama. For more info, call (334) 260-3981 or e-mail kelly.hodges@redcross.org.
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Capri Theatre Presents Young Frankenstein 7:30 p.m. The Mel Brooks classic featuring Gene Wilder, Marty Feldman and Peter Boyle. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 2624858.
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Friday, May 11
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Three Dog Night 8 p.m. Legendary music icons celebrate their 4th decade bringing some of the most astonishing statistics in popular music. Three Dog Night’s hits wind through the fabric of pop culture today, whether on the radio, in TV commercials or in major motion pictures — songs like “Mama Told Me (Not To Come),” “Joy to the World,” “Black and White,” “Shambala” and “One.” Tickets begin at $37. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. 24th Annual Fitzgerald Gala 7-10 p.m. 919 Felder Avenue. Annual fundraiser for the F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum. Guests arrive decked out in 1920s and 1930s attire to celebrate Montgomery’s favorite literary couple. The event includes live period music, antique cars, and a jaw-dropping Silent Auction. For more info, visit www.thefitzgeraldmuseum.org/ or call (334) 264-4222. Family Faith Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. A night of worship featuring a special pre-game concert presented by Faith Radio! Churches and organizations interested in bringing a group out to Family Faith Night should call (334) 323-2255. There will also be MAX fireworks following the game. Memory Cafe at Whole Foods 10-11 a.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Whole Foods and Dementia Friendly Alabama have partnered to host Memory Cafés, which are social engagement opportunities for people with dementia and their care partners to come together and just have some fun. Dementia is a socially isolating disease so it’s important for people to participate in social engagement opportunities like this. At any given café, organizers encourage attendees to not focus on the disease and have fun with the group. For more info, call Stephanie @ (334) 240-4680. Friday on the Green -- Also May 18 6:30-8:30 p.m. Town Green at Russell Crossroads on Lake Martin. Grab the kids, the pup on a leash, your cooler, etc,. and join us for outdoor live music. The first performer of the year is Jonathan Bloom on May 11; Sid Phelps is May 18. For more info, visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also May 25 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a nonprofit 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.
Saturday, May 12
Whole Foods Second Saturday Kids Club 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Each second Saturday, Whole Foods will
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FamilyCalendar host fun, hands-on craft activities to teach kids about healthy eating. It’s totally free, and every participant gets a piece of fruit and whatever they make in the workshop! For more info, call (334) 523-2940 or visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/montgomery. Millbrook Cops and Kids Event at Village Green 9 a.m.-2 p.m. FREE food, T-shirts, games, static displays and demonstrations. Four children’s bikes will also be given away! All kids attending will be given a ticket, and four lucky winners will be drawn during the day. WindCreek Casino is sponsoring the food. For more info, visit www.elmoreautauganews.com/. Military Appreciation Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Join the Biscuits as we honor the brave men and women that serve our country! Come early for the special enlistment ceremony before the game for future members of all five branches of the military. MAX fireworks following the game. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. Babypalooza 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Multiplex at the Cramton Bowl. FREE. Hosted by Baptist Health, this is a one-day parenting conference and baby expo, feauring child safety information, products, demos, games and prizes. For more info, visit http://babypaloozatour. com/ or call (205) 440-2229.
Old Alabama Town Herb Society Holds Annual Herb Day 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Old Alabama Town Living Block, 301 Columbus St. FREE admission. Lectures, demonstrations, children’s activities (10 a.m.-1 p.m. making, planting and coloring cool herbal stuff), student herbal art display in Grange Hall, music, vendors, expert gardeners and food for purchase. For more info, visit www.oathsblog.com/. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Delbert McClinton 8 p.m. The multi-Grammy Award winning artist is at the top of his game with his 19th studio album, Prick Of The Litter. Tickets begin at $23. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Taco Libre Festival 2-10 p.m. The Yards at Western Rail, 801 N. Perry Street. Alabama’s Taco Festival features a wide assortment of tacos from the state’s favorite local taco joints, restaurants and food trucks, along with plenty of refreshing beer and margaritas and musical entertainment. The event is held at a 40-acre venue in a reclaimed train shed and yard. For more info, visit www.lightninglinemgm.com/tacolibre/. Agape of Central Alabama’s 8th Annual Run for a Mom 5K and Fun Run Vaughn Park Church, 3800 Vaughn Road in Montgomery. This event is an effort to bring people together to honor the role of mom, featuring familyfriendly entertainment, food and games. All proceeds
will directly benefit Agape of Central Alabama and its mission to support women, children and families through foster care, adoption and crisis pregnancy counseling. Visit www.runforamom.org to register, volunteer, or for more info. Prattauga Art Guild Youth Art Show 1-3 p.m. at the Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery, 342 Chestnut Street in downtown Prattville. Exhibition and awards reception featuring artwork for youth in grades K-12 from Autauga County. For more info, call (334) 595-0854. Wheels 4 Wheels Car Show 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Eastdale Mall. Montgomery Roller Derby presents this family fun event to support the Kids to Love Foundation, a great program that helps give backpacks to children with helpful supplies in the Foster Care System for our state. Vehicle registration begins at 9 a.m. and is $25 per vehicle or motorcycle. Trophies will be presented towards the end of the show. For more info, e-mail promotions.mrd@gmail. com or find us on Facebook. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/events/1374454692792666 /?source=1. Archery at the Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. All levels welcome, and all equipment provided. Guests will learn about archery history, basics, and safety during this program. Bring the kids and join us for some fun
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FamilyCalendar shooting! $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. 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 preregistration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com. Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market Grand Opening 7 a.m.-noon. near Dillard’s. Several popular farms are scheduled to make their return with locally grown products, including Aplin Farms, Oakview Farms, Penton Farms, Leatherwood Nursery and many more! The Grand Opening will feature live chef demonstrations, live music by the Blackbird Pickers and children’s activities, all starting at 9 a.m. The very popular ‘Garden Cart Giveaway’ is back with prizes from featured vendors and the winner will be selected at 11:30. For more info, call (334) 279-6046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com/ farmersMarket/. Montgomery Ballet Presents Wizard of Oz and Napoli -- Also May 13 7 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. For tickets or more info, visit http://montgomeryballet.org/ or call (334) 409-0522. AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also May 26 For guests and families living with autism or other special needs, AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! This program is available on second and fourth Saturdays (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don’t forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly.
Sunday, May 13
Mother’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Free admission for all moms. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or register at www.montgomeryzoo.com/. Kids Day/Bark in the Park/Mother’s Day at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball -- Also June 10 2:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Kids 14 and under can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the final out presented by Coca-Cola. Bring your four-legged companion to the game for free and enjoy special dog-themed promotions all game long! One dog per adult. Mothers enjoy a special ticket promotion for Mother’s Day. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. Montgomery Youth Orchestra Spring Concert 2:30-4:30 p.m. Davis Theatre for Performing Arts, 251 Montgomery Street. For more info, visit www. montgomerysymphony.org/ or call (334) 240-4004.
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Tuesday, May 15
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. Dollar Dog Tuesdays at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball -Also May 29 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Every Tuesday, fans can purchase hot dogs for only $1! For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.
Wednesday, May 16
Boys and Girls Clubs of the River Region 28th Annual Charity Golf Classic and Robert C. Ward, Jr. Memorial Spring Charity Tennis Classic Wynlakes Golf and Country Club, Montgomery. Golf registration available from 7:15-8:15 a.m. for 8:30 shotgun start or 12:30-1:45 p.m. registration for 2 p.m. shotgun start. Tennis registration is 11-11:30 a.m. Tennis tournament will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m. and end at 2:30 p.m. Lunch will be served prior to the start of the tennis tournament. For more info, call (334) 832-4288 or (334) 799-2488. E-mail: lgiles@bgcriverregion.org.
Thursday, May 17
Food For Thought Noon-1 p.m. The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “The True Story of Kudzu, the Vine That Never Truly Ate the South,” presented by Bill Finch. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.
Friday, May 18
Flirting with Disaster: The Moth in Montgomery 7 p.m. Doors open; 7:30 p.m. Stories begin. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. A night of true, personal stories told by five wildly divergent raconteurs who have developed and shaped their tales with The Moth’s directors. The Moth celebrates the ability of stories to honor both the diversity and commonality of human experience, and to satisfy a vital human need for connection. For more info, visit asf.net/ or call (334) 271-5353. River Bend Brew Fest 5:30-8:30 p.m. Union Station Train Shed. $25/person Beer tasting, food vendors and live music. Must be 21 years old. Proceeds benefit the Family Sunshine Center. Tickets available at Derk’s Filet & Vine or www.funinmontgomery.com/. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Dennis “Moonshine” Rader 7:30 p.m. Country music, gospel, old time rock ‘n roll, comedy. Advance tickets are $12; at the door $14. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheater.com/. Nelly Performs at the Garrett Coliseum 1555 Federal Drive, Montgomery. Nelly is a Diamond Selling, Multi-platinum, Grammy award-winning rap superstar, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor. He has continually raised the bar for the entertainment industry since stepping on the scene in 2000 with his distinctive vocals and larger-than-life personality. Tickets start at $39. For more info, visit www.thegarrettcoliseum.com/ or call (334) 356-6866.
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Saturday, May 19
Third Saturday @ Art Museum 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view at the Museum in these FREE docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/. Reptile Rendezvous and Amphibians, Too! at the Alabama Nature Center 1-7 p.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Attention MAX Customers....present your MAX debit card and your family gets in FREE! Ready to get up close and personal with our scaly friends? Visit the NaturePlex to enjoy snakes, lizards, turtles, and a baby alligator with some of our resident reptile experts! $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. Nancy’s Italian “Gator Ice” for sale all day $1 per person. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. National Kids to Parks Day Celebration The City of Prattville hosts the Annual Mayor’s Bike Ride, Touch A Truck, and Armed Forces Day Veteran’s Awareness program in celebration of National Kids to Parks Day. The Mayor’s Bike Ride will begin at 9:45 a.m. at Upper Kingston Park and end at Pratt Park. Touch A Truck and Armed Forces Salute will begin at 10 a.m. at Pratt Park by Stanley Jensen Stadium. For more info, call (334) 595-0854. 40th Annual Jubilee Run For Cancer 7 a.m.-noon. The 8K Combat Cancer Jubilee Run and the Peggy McLendon Lanier Memorial Mile will start/ finish on Columbus Street at Old Alabama Town. Friends and Family members are encouraged to cheer you on at the finish line. 8K (90 minute limit) at 7:30 a.m.; 1 Mile at 8:45 a.m.; Tot Trot at 9:45 a.m. and Awards at 10 a.m. All net proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. For more info, visit jubileerun.org or Contact Kathy Wood at (334) 558-6587. Fort Toulouse/Fort Jackson French & Indian War and War of 1812 Re-enactment -Also May 20 Wetumpka. Admission $2/adult & $1/child. For more info, call (334) 567-3002. River Jam Music Festival -- Also May 19 Starts at 6 p.m. Friday at the Union Station Train Shed; 5:30 Saturday at the Riverfront Park. Free admission to two nights of music, featuring Cameron DuBois, Funk Nation, Blues Old Stand, Jess Meuse, James McMurtry and others. For more info, visit www.funinmontgomery.com/. Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Holds Auditions for The Hobbit -- Also May 20 Children’s auditions (ages 6-15) will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday; young adult/adult auditions (ages 16+) will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday. This show will make use of several forms of puppetry, including full-body carnival puppets, rod puppets, and shadow puppets. Puppetry experience is a plus but not a requirement. Puppetry will be taught and created in context with the show. Roles specified as puppets require actors with strong communication and partnering skills who are physically capable of holding 20 pounds. Rehearsals will be Tuesdays-Fridays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 2-5 p.m. June 12-July 18. Performances will be July 19-29. For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.
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Calendar Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market -Every Saturday through September 29 7 a.m.-noon. near Dillard’s. Several popular farms with locally grown products, including Aplin Farms, Oakview Farms, Penton Farms, Leatherwood Nursery and many more! For more info, call (334) 2796046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com/ farmersMarket/.
Sunday, May 20
Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Music will fill the Museum and get your creativity going as you visit the studio and complete a FREE make-and-take art project. This program has specific themes related to Museum exhibitions and is sure to be fun and engaging for the whole family. This month, create an underwater scene inspired by the Gulf Coast artist Walter Anderson. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.
Tuesday, May 22
Atlanta’s Fox Theatre Presents Hamilton -Through June 10 Tickets begin at $80. For tickets or more info, visit www.foxtheatre.org/ or call (855) 285-8499.
Thursday, May 24
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. It’s that wonderful time again, the Mad Hatter competition! Put on your thinking caps and come up with the perfect hat to wear for one of these categories: floral, vintage, theme, and fascinator. Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, May 21, to Suzanne Lowry at (334) 396-5368 or zanzuzan@ charter.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com for more info. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Join this bi-monthly program for Museum members during which artists share one artwork apiece and receive feedback from their peers. Get an up-close look at artists, their work, and the creative process in this unique program designed for artists in the area as well as those interested in art. This series of events (May 24, July 26, September 27 and November 29) is $20 for Museum or Art Guild Members/$35 for non-members. Participants are invited to bring one work of art to each ARTtalk session for discussion. Enjoy light refreshments and networking with other professionals in this unique program whether or not you choose to bring artwork. Visit mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333.
Friday, May 25
Moonlight Movies on The Green featuring Grease 7-9 p.m. Shoppes at EastChase, located adjacent to Pies and Pints. This FREE family-friendly event features an outdoor movie, beginning at sunset. Enjoy food and drinks from Southern Smokeshack BBQ & Catering, Frios Gourmet Pops and Dothan Ice Cream. Bring your chairs, blankets, and even pups out for a perfect family movie night! For more info, visit www. theshoppesateastchase.com/ or call (334) 279-6046. Montgomery Symphony Orchestra Jubilee Pops Concert 7:30 p.m. on the front terrace of The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Kick off Memorial Day Weekend with your family and friends at this annual outdoor Montgomery
tradition. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov.
all your friends. For more info, visit www.theamponlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.
RXR Music Fest: Memorial Day Weekend Begins at 6 p.m. each night. The Town Green at Russell Crossroads, 8878 Kowaliga Road at Lake Martin. Free outdoor concert featuring Belle Adair from Florence and AJ Ghent from Atlanta on Friday; The Bank Walkers from Lake Martin and Tyler Mac from the Gulf Coast of Florida on Saturday; and King Corduroy from Nashville and The Lamont Landers Band from Alabama on Sunday. Bring all your fun comfy stuff – cooler, kids, chair or blanket, pup on a leash and
Saturday, May 26
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Aquatic Invertebrate Round Up at the Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. During this program we will get hands-on and possibly dirty as we take a look at the insects and other organisms (without backbones) that inhabit our waterways! Grab a net (provided) and come on a journey through the waterbodies at Lanark as we search for things you normally don’t see under water! $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. Nancy’s Italian “Gator Ice” for sale all day $1 per person. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453.
Tuesday, May 29
Alabama Dance Theatre’s Summer Classes Session I ends June 14 Armory Learning Arts Center, located at 1018 Madi-
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SupportGroups son Avenue. Classes include classical ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), pointe and variations, composition, modern, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary and tap. Session I is May 29-June 14 and Session II is June 25-July 12. For more info, call (334) 625-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com.
Wednesday, May 30
An Evening with Eagles 7:30 p.m. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. An evening celebrating American air power with stories of courage, innovation and resiliency from three aviation pioneers. Featured speakers are Gen. Lori Robinson, astronaut Dr. Guion Bluford, and Operation Enduring Freedom hero CMSgt Calvin Markham. Afterward, all are welcome to attend a dessert reception and shake the hands of all ten “Eagles.” Proceeds support the Gathering of Eagles Foundation efforts. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.
Thursday, May 31
Union Springs Red Door Theatre Presents Jason Petty’s Hank Williams - The Lonesome Tour (one-man show) -- Through June 1 Jason began portraying the legendary Hank Williams on country music’s biggest stage in 1996, the worldfamous Ryman Auditorium, in the critically acclaimed musical biography, Lost Highway. After two years, he began touring the U.S., including the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, and Canada with the show. Tickets are $15 and may be ordered at (334) 7388687 or www.reddoortheatre.org.
Friday, June 1
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Clint Black 8 p.m. Clint Black surged to superstardom as part of the fabled Class of ‘89, reaching #1 with five consecutive singles from his triple-platinum debut, Killin’ Time. He followed that with the triple-platinum Put Yourself in My Shoes, and then a string of platinum and gold albums throughout the ‘90s. Tickets begin at $17. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Gump in the Gump at Montgomery Biscuits 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Run, Forrest, run! The Biscuits pay homage to the American classic, Forrest Gump, featuring special Greenbow Biscuit jerseys. There will be a silent auction during the game where fans will be able to bid on these game-worn jerseys worn by their favorite Biscuits players. After the game, the jerseys will be presented to the winners by the players. All proceeds will benefit Biscuits Charities. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.
Saturday, June 2
Old Cahawba (Bring Your Own) Bike Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Come explore on two wheels Alabama’s most famous ghost town! On this one-hour tour your guide will lead you over four miles of mostly unpaved roads, exploring a landscape of relics, ruins, and graveyards. Bring your bike, water, and snacks. Admission is $8 per person. Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook.com/ oldcahawba.
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Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Eddie B. Teachers Only Comedy Tour 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $25. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.
Sunday, June 3
Wetumpka Depot’s ACTing Up! Camp and Workshop for Kids -Through June 9 Aladdin is the show for kids entering grade 2-6. Hours are June 3 from 2-5 p.m.; June 4-8, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with a 6 p.m. performance June 8 and a 2 p.m. performance June 9. Tuition is $130 and includes camp T-shirt. An ensemble of marketplace hawkers, gymnasts, wrestlers, bread-sellers, fishmongers, belly dancers, beggars, cloth vendors, puppeteers, royal guards and royal trumpeters will make this an enriching summer theatre experience for your child! For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.
Wednesday, June 6
Children’s Summer Matinees at The Capri Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays through July 27 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. All seats $2. June 6-8 movie is Captain Underpants (PG). For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.
Thursday, June 7
Sounds of Summer --Also June 14, 21 & 28 7-9 p.m. The Shoppes at EastChase sponsors free outdoor concerts every Thursday in June. Visit www. theshoppesateastchase.com/events/ for more info.
Saturday, June 9
Maxwell Centennial 5K/1M Walk-Run 7 a.m. Gunter Annex, 2255 Cong W L Dickinson Dr., Montgomery. Open to the public. Registration fee: $25 (registration website TBD). Awards: Top male/ female and male/female age groups: up to 29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60 and older 5K will be “chip timing race” for all registered runners. Parking for those without military access will be at a designated off-base location, with shuttle service to start location. All bags are subject to search before getting on the shuttles. Only a small diaper bag/stroller will be allowed. Call (334) 953-2014 or visit www.maxwell. af.mil/Centennial/ for more info.
Classes Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org to register or for more info. Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.
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Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth 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 (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South. This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 286-3466. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. 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. Cloverdale Playhouse Rep Class Series First Mondays every month from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cloverdale Playhouse Rehearsal Hall. This is a safe space to work on your craft, develop your audition skills, share your newest piece, or just get feedback on your latest artistic endeavor. Guest panels and rotating faculty ensure constant growth and a variety of insight. Even if you don’t perform every time - you can learn a lot by observing! There will be a sign-up sheet if you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 747-7700 Option # for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 747-7700 Option # for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact
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SupportGroups process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 2938497 or e-mail: liz.owen@ jackson.org.
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Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@alabamachild.org.
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Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Maternity Area Tour Baptist Health’s Maternity Area Tour is for parents not attending Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp. Tour is offered on select Saturdays of each month and is complimentary. Tour is for adults only. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery
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. 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 16 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.
Support Groups Adoption Support
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., at Vaughn Forest Church. For more info, contact Jill Sexton at 409-9477 or jsexton@ childrensaid.org. Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Kathy King at (205) 943-5331 or e-mail kking@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@ yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.
Divorce Support
DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. For more info, call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@ frazerumc.org. DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.
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DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com.
Grief Support
Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info. Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 2796677. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 495-6350 for more info. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is nondenominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the 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.
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SupportGroups River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.
Homeschool Support
ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays 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
Parent Support
D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. 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 CityCounty 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, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail.com or visit http://vfcmops. weebly.com/.
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
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.
that focuses on inspiring, equipping and motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@yahoo.com for more information.
Post-abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) For more info, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net. 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
God Will Make a Way, Frazer UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Learn to follow God’s principles to thrive relationally, emotionally, and spiritually in 12 key areas of life and use God’s wisdom to cope with your most difficult problems. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@ frazerumc.org for more info. Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.
Special Needs Support
Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2018 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. D.A.T.S. M.O.M. (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move), a free online parent empowerment network for parents of children on the autism spectrum (or with related special needs challenges)
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Ala Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www. montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail. com for more info. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. 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. A Parent’s Perspective A therapeutic and educational group for parents of children with physical/emotional needs that provides direct support through shared experiences and coordinated by a trained facilitator. For more info and a free consultation, contact Julie Cox, LMSW at (334) 310-1649 or juliecox.sw@gmail.com. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo. com. Visit www.ahif.org.
Teens/Families Support
Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 2704100 for information about current classes. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.
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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.
FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 75
New Hope Academy, 55
First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 61
New Park, 4
First Baptist Church, Prattville, 51
OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 75
Abrakadoodle, 55
First UMC, Prattville, 69
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 49
Adventure Sports II, 27
Frazer Christian Kindergarten, 70
Prattville YMCA, 52
Alabama Christian Academy, 15, 39
Frazer Memorial UMC, 36
Professional Pediatrics, 12
Alabama Dance Theatre, 33
Guild Mortgage, 2
Pump It Up Party, 81
AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front, 53, 87
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 40
P’zazz Art Studio, 49
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 31
Hooper Academy, 25, 79
Redland Baptist Church MMO, 52
IEPA Academy, 93
RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back
Inflatables of Montgomery, 58
Riverview Camp for Girls, 22
Jackson Hospital, 3
R.O.C.K. Summer Camp, 38
K Lynn Ice Skating School, 20
Rockin’ Jump, 63
Kingry Orthodontics, 46
Saint James School, 1
Lakeview Baptist Church, 85
Saint James UMC VBS, 65
Learning Tree Child Care, 48
Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 83
Little Lights Creative Learning Ctr, 93
Shade Tree Riding Stables, 19
Lola Photography & Portrait Studio, 30
Spotless Cleaning Services, 71
Macon East Academy, 19
Success Unlimited Academy, 37, 73
Maranook Camp, 42
Swim Prep, 18
Mathnasium, 35
Sylvan Learning Center, 14, 41
Med.Art.Talk Afterschool Program, 30
Taylor Road Baptist Church, 20
Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 34
The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover
Misty Messick, 38
Tomatino’s Pizza/Cafe Louisa, 59
Dentistry for Children, 14
Montessori @ Mulberry, 17
Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 41
Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 7
Montgomery Catholic Schools, 26
Trinity Presbyterian School, 67
Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 43
Montgomery Lice Treatment Ctr, 29
Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 34
Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 91
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 95
United Gymstars & Cheer, 29
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 85
Montgomery Music Project, 42
Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 43
Evangel Christian Academy, 21
Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 13
White Gloves Manners/Etiquette, 81
Family Guidance Center, 77
Montgomery Storks and More, 21
YMCA Camp Chandler, 58
Alabama Vacation Home Rentals, 70 Alabama World Travel, 8 Armory Athletics, 36 ASKIN/Synergy House, 93 ASU SKYCAP Summer Camp, 45 Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 95 Baptist Health, 9 Barb’s on Mulberry, 27 Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 33 Bradley Scholarship Help Seminar, 11 Chapman Orthodontics, 79 Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 69 Churchill Academy, 28 Cupcake Castles Travel, 18
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MP: Your relationship with your parents is strong. What are some ways they have influenced you to be the parent you are? What did they do to help you grow in confidence? Rebecca: I grew up in a welcoming home. From friends to exchange students, and cousins, to anyone needing a place, I grew up knowing it was a safe place. I learned that being born into an amazing family was a blessing, but it didn’t make me special. Everyone was welcome. My parents adopted my brother, cared for my cousin, and always had live-in guests. They were incredible support systems for our friends. They were a huge part of me knowing who I was and being confident that the Lord had made me exactly the way I am. They were extremely encouraging and supportive in every avenue, and still are to this day.
Rebecca Healey
MP: What would you say is your parenting style? Rebecca: Our home is relaxed with high expectations. We don’t have lots of specific rules, but the important rules matter a great deal and are clear. We have high expectations because we have very personal relationships with them. We don’t address every little thing, but major issues are very important.
MP: You have said you are passionate about “being a mom to someone”. Explain what you mean by that and your definition of “MOM”.
MP: Please share a daily routine your family has that has an impact on your children.
Rebecca: My personality is pretty passionate, so I can get excited about a lot of topics. However, “being a mom to someone” is definitely at the top of my list. I am more passionate about loving, supporting, and pouring into the lives of children and those who need guidance than probably anything I have ever done. And, I want to help others feel that way too. Whether it’s biological children, step, adopted, foster, or just children in the community, there are so many who need someone to love them. To me, a mother is someone who loves you unconditionally, supports you, guides you, and walks with you no matter your struggles.
Rebecca: Our family bedtime routine is the thing our children will remember the most from home. My husband made it a priority to take time with each of our children daily at bedtime. Our children will leave our home with incredible memories from nightly discussions. We try hard to take advantage of car rides, meal times, and especially bed time to really pour into their lives and get to know them deeply. MP: What is the most rewarding part about being a mom? Rebecca: Seeing our children find Faith, and purpose, and grow into their own individual personalities is the most rewarding part of parenting. Helping people find their calling and purpose gives me more satisfaction than I can explain. I love seeing my children, and those I get to speak into, feel good about their direction and feel proud of themselves. MP: What advice can you give moms just beginning their parenting journey? Rebecca: Spend time with your children and speak life-giving words into them. I have spent time with children from both strict and laid-back homes, homes who ate healthy and ate junk, and homes with early bed time or no bed time. I have encountered children from all backgrounds, and the common theme of what seemed to matter is how their parents expressed love. I would encourage you to look for ways to intentionally express LOVE to your children, in their language, and on a consistent basis… and relax, you’re doing great!
MP: In this life where we are all “so busy”, how do you make sure that doesn’t get in the way of your passion? What do you do to keep your energy up? Rebecca: I have to eliminate things, even things I enjoy, to make sure that I prioritize what matters most, while maintaining the margin for healthy relationships. I have a naturally high energy level, but honestly pouring into the lives of people gives me a huge energy boost. I am a people person, so being in community energizes me and spending time one-on-one with people gives me a sense of excitement and fulfillment. When I neglect relationships, my energy level suffers.
Montgomery Parents I May 2018
Rebecca Healey is owner of New Leaf Consignment. She is married to Trip and they have 6 children: Knox (18), Mary Fran (17), Leo (15), Showy (8), and twins, Ben & Aaron (6).
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#
Recent graduates are attending
AP COURSES
51 IN 21
offered in 2017-18, more than any other independent school in Alabama
K-12 PRIVATE SCHOOL
COLLEGES STATES
40
in Alabama as ranked by Niche.com
plus Washington, D.C. & Scotland
16
AP SCHOLARS 2017-18
INCLUDING
3 NATIONAL AP SCHOLARS
67
SPEECH & DEBATE
STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS 1 of only 4 programs in the state
RANKED
ATHLETIC STATE
4
CHAMPIONSHIPS
by national speech & debate organization
more than any other in the River Region
AHSAA
HALL OF FAME COACHES more than any in the state
1 OF 3
1st
CUM LAUDE
PLACE
societies in Alabama
UPPER SCHOOL CHORUS Heritage National Choral Competition in New York
D I S COV E R T H E Contact the MA Admissions Office admissions@montgomeryacademy.org
334.272.8210 | montgomeryacademy.org
MA05-40500-Parents February 2018.indd 1
DIFFERENCE Ask about financial aid options that make an MA education a possibility.
The Academy admits students of every color, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, or other legally protected status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
1/5/18 3:21 PM