Montgomery Parents November 2018 by KeepSharing

8 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A LEAD-SAFE CERTIFIED

RENOVATION CONTRACTOR:

TO HELP

PREVENT:

1. Learning disabilities 2. Behavior issues 3. Diminished motor skills 4. Lower intelligence

Using a lead-safe certified renovation contractor is the law. Home repairs that create even a small amount of lead dust are enough to poison your child and put your family at risk. Make sure you renovate right with a contractor that is Lead-Safe Certified.

5. Hearing loss 6. Brain damage 7. Memory loss 8. Headaches

For more information, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/lead or call 1-800-819-7544

It’s a

G REAT DAYat ! Mark Your Calendars! SA IN T JA M E S SCHOOL IN VITE S PROSPECTIVE STU DEN TS A ND PA R EN TS TO VISIT STJ THIS FA LL

Welcome Wednesdays AT STJ Come on Campus and get to know us! We encourage all prospective families to schedule an individual tour of Saint James School during the school day. In addition, we are inviting all who are interested in Rising 6th-12th Graders and Parents

Save The Date

STJ POP UP SHOP Saturday January 26, 2019 3:00pm

Saint James School’s Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten programs to our Welcome Wednesdays. The children will enjoy a classroom activity and play with new friends while the parents take a brief tour of our pre-school and kindergarten.

WELCOME WEDNESDAYS 9:00am 9:10-9:30am

Rising Pre-K3, Pre-K4, Kindergartners, and Parents

Save The Date

OPEN HOUSE Sunday January 27, 2019 1:30pm

9:30am

Registration in the Admissions Office in the Saint James Elementary School Enrichment Classroom Activity November 14, 2018–Science Lab November 28, 2018–Technology Lab December 5, 2018–Holiday Library Time Students enjoy refreshments and arts & crafts with our STJ Student Ambassadors while the parents tour our Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten classes

Reservations are encouraged. Please call 334-273-3021 or email admissions@stjweb.org at least three school days before the Wednesday you would like to attend.

Saint James School FOR PRE-K3−12 TH G RADE ADM I SS ION S, CALL

334-273-3021

Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Call today to learn more about merit scholarships and affording a Saint James education for your child. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, 1 and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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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 Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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November2018 64

Volume 23 Number 11

Columns

8 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Raising Communicators 3 Good Things Teaching your kids to communicate well in the digital age.

How to start a family gratitude practice.

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent

46 Pike Road Education Matters by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.

51 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

55 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis

62 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

66 The College Years

Holiday Happenings

River Region parades, lights, musicals and more...to brighten your season.

Salute a Veteran

11 easy ways your family can show appreciation to military men and women this month.

by Lee Gonet

71 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

78 Parenting Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teens Mark Gregston

On The Cover Kaiya G. Dixon (7th Grade, Wetumpka Middle School), Piper Doyle (9th Grade, Pike Road High School), and Wyatt Mulder (7th Grade, Edgewood Academy) are starring in the Wetumpa Depot Players performance of Junie B Jones--Jingle Bells and Batman Smells. School matinees are November 26-30 and public performances are November 29, 30 and December 1. For tickets call 334-868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.

84 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 16 School Bits 60 Teacher of the Month 86 Calendar/Support Groups 96 Mom to Mom www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Editor’sNote Is thankfulness part of your family’s discussion on a weekly basis? Or does it only come up around the Thanksgiving table once a year? Hopefully, most of us fall somewhere in between. I’ll admit I haven’t been as consistent as I should be teaching my kids to have an attitude of gratitude...or even having one myself often enough. Sometimes it just feels more natural to see the problems in life rather than all we have to be thankful for, even in the midst of those problems. Our problems feel big and sometimes overwhelming, but what if we saw our blessings the same way? How big a blessing is having a warm home to live in with plenty of food on the table every day? How overwhelmed should we feel to have the privilege of bringing life into the world and having a family to call our own? In the midst of the hard parts of life, can we be grateful for close friends and family to walk with us through them? If we take just a moment to think through all that we DO have in comparison to what we wish was different, there’s no doubt the GOOD column will win hands down. As we head into the season of Thanksgiving, I challenge us all to take time not only to be grateful, but to express it out loud with our loved ones. For some great ideas on how to incorporate more thankfulness into your family’s daily life, read Sara Barry’s article, 3 Good Things: How to Start a Family Gratitude Practice. November kicks off the holiday season and the River Region offers fun family activities and events throughout this month and December. You’ll find all the details in our 2018 Holiday Happenings Guide on page 72. From local theater and festivals to parades and tree lightings, there’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the season and make wonderful memories with your children. November also gives us the opportunity to observe Veteran’s Day and express our gratitude to the men and women who serve our country with such sacrifice. Christa Hines shares easy, yet thoughtful, ways you and your kids can express your true appreciation for our military, past and present, in 11 Ways Families Can Salute a Veteran. The holidays are likely some of the most difficult days for our service men and women, so take a little time and let them know how grateful you are for their service. Other highlights in this month’s issue include our new Teacher of the Month winner on page 60, the second installment in our Therapeutic Parenting series, insight from Common Sense Media on What Your Teens Really Think About Their Social Media Lives, and Lee Gonet’s Guide to College Campus Visits. Our team at Montgomery Parents works hard to bring you relevant material to assist in your parenting journey, whether it’s just beginning or you are close to pushing one out of the nest. We know parenting never ends, but it does constantly change. We are here to help and consider it a privilege to serve your family. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

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 Sara Barry Robert Coggin, MD Richard Dennis Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Dr. Charles Ledbetter Sonia Martin, LMSW Dr. Ann Roy Moore Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Maria Wiggins www.lolafineartphotography.com

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 Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell

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Member

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Montgomery Parents I November 2018

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LMSW

A Different Approach to Lying Few behaviors want to make a parent’s head explode more than lying. The very concept of a child standing before you faced with your inquisition, while they simultaneously and unapologetically lie without ceasing, is an affront to our common sense of social decency. So, what do you do? You’ve tried it all. You have threatened, yelled, cajoled, you’ve taken away the PlayStation for the 14th time this month, their iPhone now permanently resides in your pocket, yet still...they lie. Well, let me first assure you that if you have a child with a proclivity towards lying they are not necessarily destined for an orange jumpsuit. Lying is commonly a simple survival tactic that our kids will utilize in an effort to avoid a negative engagement. Their experiences have taught them – when you mess something up, avoid taking responsibility at all costs, because if you do, something will happen to you. It is no wonder they often will instinctively and reflexively lie in an attempt at self-preservation. Due to the immaturity level of our kids they don’t necessarily have that capacity to pause, really think through the situation and be vulnerable enough to admit truth. So, understanding that, let me give you a couple of tips: First, stop asking questions. If you have a child with a proclivity towards lying,

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

stop phrasing things in the form of a question. For example, if your child has just poured themselves a cup of milk and you notice there is now spilled milk all over the counter, instead of saying something to effect of, “Why did you make such a mess?” or “Why didn’t you clean up that milk after you were done?” which inevitably will provoke a denial from your child; instead try phrasing things in the form of a statement like, “Hey, sweet girl, I need you to grab that rag for me really quick and clean up that milk, thanks for your help!” When your child then comes back at you with, “But it wasn’t my mess!” or “It wasn’t me!” you can respond with an assurance that you are not looking to blame, you are simply looking to address the issue at hand. “No worries, it doesn’t matter who it was, I just appreciate your help,” and move on with your day. Second, since we understand that lying can oftentimes be reflexive - meaning your child hasn’t really processed the entirety of the conversation or the question you are asking – you can give them an option for an “out”. “Dude, I’m not sure that’s what really happened. Can you try that again for me?” or “Let’s come back around to this later; I would love to know what really happened.” Effectively, when you give them an option for a do-over it prompts them to come out of that survival portion of their brain

and re-engage with their frontal cortex, which will allow them to respond much more appropriately to your question. Overall, understand that lying is a common childhood behavior that in no way will define the complete trajectory of a child’s life. Breathe, and remind yourself that your child is in a learning process called childhood. As we love, teach, train, disciple, serve and care for them in every little day to day engagement, we are effectively coloring who they grow up to be...so keep your eye on the long game. You got this! Do you have a behavior or parenting question? Shoot me an email at sonia.kidstolove@yahoo.com. I will answer your question in an upcoming issue of Montgomery Parents! *Therapeutic parenting is parenting in a highly structured, highly nurturing way. This form of intensive parenting is often a key to progress in dealing with children who have trauma and attachment challenges, but has also proven beneficial with any child.

Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation. Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent. She spends her free time cooking, drinking coffee, cleaning, cooking, sweeping infield baseball dirt off of the kitchen floor, cooking, and cleaning up after the cooking in an effort to keep all those boys full while avoiding the appearance that she lives in a fraternity house.

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The

Living Christmas Tree

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December 7 • 7 pm December 8 • 4 & 7 pm December 9 • 4 & 7 pm

She ior on. one nng hile

Tickets available online beginning November 5.

Call 334.241.5156 or order online at

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305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104

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Holiday Family Theatre

In the Arts @ MMFA

November 29 * 6 p.m. In partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet High, the Museum Muses host this arts-related career night for River Region teens. Professionals from community arts organizations and creative businesses showcase their work and answer questions about their education and career paths. For more info about this and other teen events, or to volunteer to share your career in the arts with teens, please contact Elisabeth at epalmer@mmfa.org. This huge outdoor carnival is a great day for kids, families and the young at heart in various locations at Hampstead. Stretching from our Farm to Hampstead Field to the Town Center, this event is one of our biggest extravaganzas ever! $10 wristbands include all rides, inflatables, games, and kids’ events. Food trucks and the Tipping Point will have food and drinks for sale. For more info, visit www.hampsteadliving.com/.

Christmas on the Coosa

December 8 * 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Downtown Wetumpka. Christmas extravaganza with arts & crafts, parade, food, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. For more info, call (334) 567-5147 or visit www. cityofwetumpka.com/.

Fort Toulouse/Fort Jackson Frontier Days

November 7-10 * 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ft. Toulouse/Ft. Jackson Park, Wetumpka. This snapshot of frontier life includes Creek Indians, French soldiers and their families, British traders who lived among the Creeks, and American soldiers who fought in Andrew Jackson’s army during the Creek War. Additionally, there will be strolling balladeers, entertainers, period musicians and a magician as well as merchants selling quality reproductions of items used on the frontier. Admission is $8/adult & $7/child. For more info, call (334) 567-3002 or visit https://fttoulousejackson.org/. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Harry Connick Jr. @ MPAC

Thursday, December 13 * 7:30 p.m. A New Orleans Tricentennial Celebration! Join Harry and his amazing band as they celebrate New Orleans’ 300th birthday and the influences that shaped his career. Enjoy the evening as Harry toasts his beloved city and also performs a selection of holiday favorites. Ticket prices begin at $67.50. Visit mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. 10

Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents The Sound of Music November 15-December 30. With music and lyrics by Rodgers and Hammerstein; directed by Rick Dildine. The beloved story of Maria, a young and spirited nun-turned-governess, and the Von Trapp family. Recommended ages 7+. ASF presents The Gospel of Luke December 6-30. Actor Bruce Kuhn performs with the passion and surprise of an eyewitness account. In a compelling ninety minutes, the tale comes alive with the urgency, fervor, and humor of someone who was there. Recommended ages 7+. For tickets or more info, visit asf. net or call (334) 271-5353. Wetumpka Depot presents Junie B Jones: Jingle Bells and Batman Smells November 29-December 1 at 7 p.m. Directed by Chris Kelly, this play is based on the beloved children’s series following Junie as she digs her way out of the challenges of grade school! Junie fans will love this endearing holiday take on the book of the same title. For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever December 6-16. Written by Barbara Robinson, directed by Joey Fine, by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. Tickets are $10 in advance and can be purchased at cc.prattvilleal.gov or by calling (334) 5950854. Millbrook Community Theatre presents It’s a Wonderful Life December 6-16. Adapted for the stage by James W. Rodgers; based on the film by Frank Capra and story by Peter Van Doren Stern; directed by John Collier. The saga of George Bailey, the everyman from the small town of Bedford Falls, whose dreams of escape and adventure have been quashed by family obligation and civic duty, whose guardian angel has to descend on Christmas Eve to save him from despair and to remind him of a wonderful life. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www. millbrooktheater.com/. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Harlem Globetrotters @ Garrett Coliseum

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MPAC Presents Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic!

November 23 * 2 & 6 p.m. When magician extraordinaire Justin visits Sesame Street to put on a magic show for the whole neighborhood, Elmo wants to be part of the big event. But Elmo doesn’t know how to do magic! Along the way, Elmo and Abby, joined by their friends Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Grover, Rosita, Count von Count, and Gonger, discover the many magical moments in everyday life. In the end, Elmo learns that you can do anything you set your mind to if you just keep trying! Tickets begin at $15. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

December 6* 7 p.m. Featuring some of the most elite dunkers on the planet, exceptional ball handlers, and Guinness World Record holders, a Globetrotters game is more than just basketball – they are the ultimate in family entertainment. To match the growing popularity of the Globetrotters’ female stars, the team will also bring the largest female roster in team history to fans across North America. After virtually every game, the Harlem Globetrotters remain on the court for autographs and photographs with fans. Tickets are available at harlemglobetrotters.com, ticketmaster.com, the Garrett Coliseum box office, or by calling (800) 745-3000.

Pike Road Veterans Appreciation Ceremony

November 4 * 2 p.m., Pike Road Veterans Park, 4902 Pike Road. Featuring distinguished guest speaker, Lieutenant Colonel Scott Corey, Commander of the 42nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron, and the patriotic tunes of the Capitol Sounds beginning at 1:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.pikeroad.us.

Christmas DINNER

Guest Speaker l Janeese Spencer December 2 l 6:00-8:00pm l Family Life Center Register at sjlife.com/ministries/women childcare available by reservation

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Montg Pa

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Adenovirus Adenovirus is a very common but underdiagnosed infection in children and adults. It is an infection that occurs year-round and is no more prevalent at any season of the year. It can occur at any age, but is more common in daycare and school environments since students are in close contact with others. It causes a wide variety of illnesses. These illness can range from being subclinical and not cause any symptoms at all to causing serious, life threatening illnesses such as severe pneumonia, meningitis and encephalitis. There are over 50 different strains of adenovirus, each of which can cause different symptoms. Individuals can have the infection more than once and have a different type of illness each time. Some of these illnesses can be prolonged, lasting a week or longer. Some of the illnesses caused by this virus are: • Upper respiratory infections with symptoms of nasal congestion, cough and fever • Pharyngitis consisting of sore throat, enlarged lymph glands in the neck, and fever. This often will appear to look just like strep throat including fever, pus on the tonsils and elevated white blood count, but the throat culture for strep is negative. • Conjunctivitis or pinkeye with the eyes being red, watery or matted, and mild discomfort. It can also be much more severe with

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

involvement of the cornea causing very red eyes and significant pain, sensitivity to light and blurred vision. This type is very contagious and may require consultation with an ophthalmologist. • Viral illness or “fever virus” consisting of only fever which may last up to a week and have a temperature of 103 to 104 degree. • Gastroenteritis with the sudden onset of watery diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. This is more common in children less than 4 years old and in daycare. • Hemorrhagic cystitis which causes infection in the urinary bladder resulting in painful urination, blood in the urine and fever. These infections are transmitted mainly person to person in respiratory secretions. They enter the body by breathing the secretions in the nose and throat or through the conjunctiva of the eyes by rubbing the eyes. Gastrointestinal illnesses are transmitted by contact with contaminated stools. Laboratory tests for adenovirus may be performed but may not be available as a quick test in doctor’s offices. However, the test can be sent to a reference lab with the results available in a few days. Even though there is a delay in receiving the test results, it still may be helpful in some instances where an illness is not improving as quickly as

expected or to determine if an antibiotic may be helpful. Adenoviruses are resistant to many disinfectants and hand sanitizers and can live on surfaces for long periods. Exposure can be minimized by careful handwashing and protection from coughs and sneezes. Also, individuals known or suspected to have an adenoviral infection should remain at home until there is no fever and the symptoms are improving. There is no specific treatment for adenovirus. Treatment is supportive with ibuprofen or acetaminophen for fever, extra fluid intake, and a vaporizer to loosen mucus secretions in the nose. Antibiotics are not helpful since it is a viral infection. If your child has significant symptoms of congestion, cough, sore throat, fever, other suspicious symptoms, be sure to keep adenovirus in mind and check with your pediatrician. 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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Staying Thankful Thanksgiving is an annual opportunity to eat turkey and pie, watch football, and gather with the people we care about to celebrate what we have. It is a wonderful holiday. But we also have things we can be thankful for each day of the year. If I believe social media, there is more that is wrong with the world than is right. We are quick to complain about everything from the government to the speed of the waiter at lunch. There was a recent post about a 911 call from someone sitting in a fast-food drive through notifying police that they only got nine chicken nuggets in their 10-nugget meal.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

It is easy when all you see or hear is complaints to adopt that as your “default” attitude. Our children spend a lot of time on social media. They likely also hear their family and friends talking about all that is wrong with the world, the bills we have to pay, and the everyday problems that face us all. It is easy to talk about the negative in our lives. As the old saying goes, misery loves company. I am not suggesting we shouldn’t talk about our problems. We have to – but not to complain – rather to use conversation to solve them. There are positive and productive ways to address the negatives in our lives. Our children need to know how to address challenges and find ways to meet them head on with the right attitude. And we need to spend time talking about what is right with our lives and the world. There is so much beauty in the world and so many things that are positive, it is a shame not to spend some

of our oh-so-limited time on this planet reveling in them. And it can’t just be once per year between the dressing and the pumpkin pie. Help your children learn to celebrate the positive in their lives every day; in their families, their friends, and their schools. Please consider having a daily moment of thanks by families. Just a couple of minutes each day. A minute or two when we push aside the problems and focus on what is right. And post positive things on social media too. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on the positive will help our children. It will give them hope and purpose. And, it is OK if you want to have pie while you do. Dr. Ann Roy Moore is a teacher. For more than four decades, Dr. Moore has educated the children of Alabama. From her first post as a pre-school teacher, to her administrative work as a principal, central office curriculum specialist, superintendent, and her mentoring the next generation of teachers as an adjunct professor at colleges and universities, teaching is her passion. She became MPS interim superintendent in January of 2018 and was named superintendent effective June 1, 2018.

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Guild Mortgage is not affiliated with The Home Depot. The Home Depot is not a sponsor of this promotion. The Home Depot is a registered trademark of Home Depot Product Authority, LLC. All rights reserved. _Guild Mortgage Company is an Equal Housing Lender; Company NMLS ID 3274. All information, loan programs & interest rates are subject to change without notice. All loans subject to underwriter approval. Terms and conditions apply. Always consult an accountant or tax advisor for full eligibility requirements on tax deduction. No income limit for properties in low-income census tracts. Payment subject to maximum allowable lender credit and minimum contribution requirements. Some loans require a minimum cash investment by the borrower, which may limit the amount of any lender credits or payments by Guild under the offer. Conforming loan limits apply with a maximum loan amount of $453,100; except in Alaska and Hawaii with a maximum loan amount of $679,650. Guild Mortgage Company, Montgomery Branch 6719 Taylor Circle | Montgomery, 15 AL 36117, Prattville Branch 705 McQueen Smith www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents Road South Prattville, AL 36066. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/). (18-0351)

Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Swimcats Make Big Splash at Invitational

The Trinity Prebyterian School varsity girls’ and boys’ swim teams had an excellent showing at the Westminster Knightfall Invitational in Birmingham October 2. They competed against 16 other teams. The girls’ team came in third overall! Prather Anne Hargrove, Carson King, Lilly Yancey and Lauren Vermillion scored points for the team by coming in third in the medley relay and fourth in the 200 free relay. Hargrove swept all of her individual events by coming first in the 50 free, 200 free, and 100 fly. Yancey came in fourth in the 200 free and Vermillion came in fifth in the 200 free. In addition to these great performances, several swimmers got personal best times. Yancey dropped time in all three of her individual events! Vermillion and Beck Tuley both dropped time in the 50 free! Shown are Carson King, Lauren Vermillion, Prather Anne Hargrove and Lilly Yancey.

Carver High JROTC Cadets Take Home Top Prize at State Competition

The Carver High Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps brought home some hardware from a statewide competition in Huntsville recently. The Carver cadets were the overall winners of the Lee/New Century High School Drill Competition. They competed against squads from 11 other schools statewide. The Carver JROTC cadets also won the individual first-place spot, the dual first-place spot and finished with five first- and second-place group medals. In addition, they were the overall winners for the Unarmed Division.

Churchill Speaker Talks About Media Navigation

Churchill Academy’s Parent Association welcomed Jamie Farquhar as guest speaker for the school’s September meeting. Farquhar’s presentation focused on dialogue with students about media from a young age, paying attention to the high school years. From song lyrics to the pressures of overall media, Farquhar gave great insight to Churchill parents on how to have open and honest conversations with students about media in their world today.

Wilson Elementary Enters World of Robotics

Wilson Elementary students are exploring new technological horizons with the development of the district’s first VEX IQ team. VEX IQ is a snap-together robotics system designed specifically for elementary and middle school students. Team members will build, design, program and enter robots into competitions. The system allows students as young as second-graders to get involved in this hands-on activity that incorporates science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Wilson’s new robotics program has already expanded from its initial 12 students to 16. Their leader is teacher Heidi Casteel, who is pictured here with Chandler Bise of MPS Technology Support and several members of the Wilson robotics team. The photo was taken at Brewbaker Technology Magnet High, where the Wilson students were picking up pointers from Brew Tech’s own award-winning robotics squad. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Catholic Marching Band Puts on Superior Show

The Montgomery Catholic Marching Knights took their show on the road and competed in the Trussville Marching Invitational hosted by Hewitt-Trussville High School. The 2018 season’s “Dawn To Dusk” show includes selections that take the listener on a musical journey from the bright early morning to the shade of the evening. The Marching Knights received Superior ratings in every category, including drum major, percussion, color guard and overall band. The band was aalso warded 1A Best-In-Class color guard, Best-In-Class drum major, and Best-In-Class Overall Band. With a score of 98/100, Johnny Guevara received the highest score of any drum major at the competition, including those in classes 1A through 4A.

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Baldwin Students Have Artwork Displayed

Several Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet students had artwork chosen to be displayed in the ArtWorks Gallery at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. The artwork was for the exhibition “Do Good, Make Art.” The exhibition aims to raise awareness of hunger and food insecurity in the area, and the artworks carry those themes along with the importance of community service. The exhibition was scheduled to run Sept. 25 through Nov. 10. The students, who are all eighth-graders, also received Certificates of Excellence. From left are Natalie Magee, Alexandra Boswell, William Williams, Anaiah Morrissette, Baldwin visual arts teacher Jennifer Alexander and Ada Withers.

ECA Students Create Fossils

Evangel Christian Academy’s eighthgrade students recently learned about fossils. To find out how fossils form in rocks, the students created their own fossils. Their teacher, Mrs. Hammack, provided sand, water and Plaster of Paris to create rocks. Once the mixture was formed, the students placed a shell inside and let the rocks harden. The next day they cracked open the rocks and observed the fossils that had formed. 19

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Success Unlimited Achievers MOOseum

Holy Cross Studies Anatomy in STEM Lab

Holy Cross Episcopal School’s kindergarten class learned so much about bones in STEM lab instruction with Dr. Caleb and Krista Hamilton. The students discovered that the human skeleton consists of 206 bones that help our bodies support, store minerals and manufacture blood cells. They learned that bone marrow makes our blood and carries oxygen throughout our bodies. They also learned that it is very important to drink lots of water because when we fall, the water cushions our bones so that they will not break as easily.

The 2018-2019 school year has already offered Success Unlimited Academy students an opportunity to take their first field trip. The Achievers B class visited the MOOseum at the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association. Achievers teacher Pam Watson, along with John Beard and Carlos McGilvery, accompanied the students to the downtown venue for a morning filled with fun activities and learning experiences. The MOOseum is a venue filled with interesting information and exhibits. Since 1995, it has been one of the top venues for students and families to learn about Alabama’s beef cattle industry. Whether you’re young or old, the hands-on experience of the MOOseum is a field trip top pick. A multitude of additional field trips have been planned for SUA students this year.

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Forest Avenue Welcomes Lee to Lead Art Program

This year, Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School welcomed new art program and art teacher Rebecca Lee. For the first time in the school’s history, students will be able to take art alongside other specialist classes offered at the school including PE, Chinese, Spanish and music. “We got off to a great start,” said Lee, a Montgomery native. “The kids have really enjoyed it, and I’m excited about what we’re going to be able to do at Forest Avenue.” In the first few weeks of school, students learned about the basic elements of art, including patterns with lines and colors. They also worked on a collaborative project inspired by Linda Kranz’s Only One You. The book features illustrations of rocks painted to look like fish, each with a unique pattern and design. After reading the story, students designed a fish of their own to “swim” in a blue paper ocean that covers a large bulletin board located near the school’s front office. In the spring, Lee will host an art show. Art by every Forest Avenue student will be on display. It will be an opportunity for them to show off their creative work to family and friends. Lee said that above all she hopes to foster an appreciation of art among students. “Forest Avenue students work on such a high academic level that it’s very beneficial for them to be able to relax and activate the other side of their brain,” she said. “The process of art allows them to exercise their creative muscle by working through ‘mistakes,’ creative thinking, and looking at things from different perspectives, which goes a long way in helping them in areas outside of art.”

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ACA Names Dockins Honorary Captain

Holy Cross Offers Unique After-School Enrichments

Holy Cross Episcopal School offers many after-school opportunities for enrichment on campus for the convenience of parents and students. “Brain Pump” is available every Wednesday afternoon. Created by a kinesiology professor and a physical therapist, the program combines a strong neurological and body awareness which positively affects attention and learning while providing the maximum potential for success. Instructors Jared Enriquez and Oanh Nguyen keep the instruction moving and exciting while the students have fun in an atmosphere of energy and research-based instruction.

At Alabama Christian Academy’s 2018 Homecoming game, Lee Dockins, daughter of Harris and Sharon Dockins and sister of ACA Coach JL Dockins, was named honorary captain. She is the most decorated World Games Athlete from Kentucky, winning a total of more than 200 medals, including 160 Gold. She was selected to appear in a special exhibit at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics this past summer. Dockins has also appeared in Sports Illustrated twice. She has competed in the Special Olympic World games in China, Greece and Los Angeles. This March she will represent the USA in Abu Dhabi at the 2019 Special Olympics World Games. Dockins is an exceptional athlete and we are blessed to have her as part of our ACA family!

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ADMISSIONS QUESTIONS? Contact Admissions Director Julie Lopez Call 334-318-3777 or email jlopez@montgomerycatholic.org FA I TH . E XCE LLE N CE. S E R VI CE. TH IS IS CATH O LI C. 23

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Sidney Lanier High Celebrates Being National PTA School of Excellence, Bicentennial School

Sidney Lanier High held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate two recent accomplishments at the school. Montgomery Public Schools Superintendent Ann Roy Moore joined Lanier Principal Antonio Williams in front of the historic school to cut the ribbon celebrating Lanier being an Alabama Bicentennial School and a National PTA School of Excellence. Lanier was the only school in Montgomery and one of only three in the state to receive the School of Excellence designation. Alabama PTA President Donna Russell presented the School of Excellence Award to the Lanier High PTSA. Melinda Williams, director of U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell’s Montgomery office, delivered a proclamation from Sewell commending the PTSA.

Montgomery Academy Art Students Have Work on Display at MMFA

Eastwood Senior Participates in DYW

Eastwood Christian School senior McKenzie Higginbotham participated in the 2019 Distinguished Young Women of Montgomery County Program. Each year, the program recognizes senior girls who endeavor to “be their best selves” through being healthy, being involved in their communities, excelling in academics at school, demonstrating ambition in achieving goals, being responsible, and living moral and ethical lives. In the program, Higginbotham was awarded a Top Fitness Award and a Top Self-Expression Award. She also was named the 2nd Runner-up overall. Her cash scholarships totaled $900. She was also awarded $71,000 in college scholarships. Higginbotham was supported by little sisters Elizabeth Cowden, Millie Hodge and Elle Foxx.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Five Upper School Art students were recently accepted into the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Corridor Show, “Do Good, Make Art.” Students were asked to create their interpretation of hunger in an effort to raise awareness of hunger in our area. The student artists are Abby Baird, Lucy Chapman, Francie Hill, Claire Donaldson and Arden Lieux. This exhibition is on view in the Artworks Corridor through November 10.

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Trinity Third-Graders Create Communities Using 3D Printers

Using MacBooks and 3D printers, Trinity Presbyterian School third-grade students designed their own communities in the Lower School Media Center. The finished products are on display outside our STEAM Studio, along with other creative projects the students have been working on this school year. This type of instruction engages students and allows them a hands-on approach to problem solving. Trinity’s classroom teachers work closely with librarian/media specialist, Mrs. Osmer, to provide productive educational experiences for students. They acquire critical thinking skills through project-based learning activities and productive struggle. We are thrilled over the opportunities that are provided to our Lower School students through our media center and 3D printers.

JD Wins Yearbook, TV Production Awards at Troy’s J-Day

The Jefferson Davis High Cavalier yearbook staff won first place in yearbook photography at Troy University’s J-Day Journalism Workshop. The broadcast media class also collected an award, receiving third place in Best Television Sports Coverage for its JDTV production efforts. The competition was held in the Hall School of Journalism on Troy’s main campus. Destinee Dixon and Latorya Martin are shown accepting the awards.

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BTW Senior Earns Distinguished Young Woman Title

Booker T. Washington Magnet High senior Trinity Ross has been named Distinguished Young Woman of Montgomery County. She also won Best in Fitness, the DYW Spirit Award, and the Essay Award. Ross, shown at far left, accepted the title from previous winner Meredith Kingry, right. BTW senior Samantha Ammeter won first runner-up as well as the Talent Award. Senior Chamberlyn Gravatt also deserves commendation for being a great representation of what BTW has to offer students, from arts to academics to athletics. All three BTW students earned scholarship awards. Ross will now advance to the state program, where she will have the opportunity to earn more scholarship money.

Families in the River Region are invited to join us Saturday, November 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for STEAMfest 2018! Enjoy FREE hands-on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) activities for children in pre-K through sixth grade. This event is open to the public and will be held at the Montgomery Academy Lower School campus, 1550 Perry Hill Rd. There will be exhibits from 187th Fighter Wing, Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Sloss Metal Arts, National Society of Black Engineers, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Escapology, Snapology, Alabama Wildlife Federation and more! For more info, call (334) 273-7170 or visit www.montgomeryacademy.org/.

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Macon East Celebrates Johnny Appleseed

Ellen Lawrence’s kindergarten students at Macon East Academy enjoyed celebrating Johnny Appleseed’s birthday with a tasting party of foods made from apples. Students sampled apple pie, applesauce, apple bread, apple straws and apple juice. Earlier in the week, the students tasted and compared red, green and yellow apples using adjectives to describe each kind of apple. Everyone voted on their favorite apple and created a graph to record the data. Green apples were the overall favorite! The class had lots of fun learning about apples and Johnny Appleseed while being introduced to numerous math and reading skills.

SUA Students Take to Literary Theater Class

Success Unlimited Academy ninthgrade honor students took center stage before thousands, or at least that is how they read during the class’s literary theater lesson. This weekly approach is one of the tools used by English instructor Benita Edwards. “It only takes one student who has the courage to find their voice to motivate the others to follow suit! You should see them vying for a chance to read!” Edwards said the activity gives students a great opportunity to get outside their comfort zone, strengthen their interpretation of text and figures of speech, prepare for drama productions, and cultivate an appreciation for reading.

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Trinity’s Williams Reaches Volleyball Milestone

Trinity Presbyterian School senior and varsity volleyball player Lucy Williams reached her 1,000th career kill during a game against Prattville Christian Academy October 2, where Trinity won 25-20. Williams has averaged more than 200 kills a season since her freshman debut at the varsity level.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

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

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

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MEA Artists’ Works Chosen for Display

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Two Macon East Academy students’ works were accepted into the MMFA ARTWorks corridor for this quarter. The theme, “Do Good, Make Art,” connects with the Views of the South Photographs “Do Good Fund” exhibit, which is inspired by the Empty Bowl movement. In an effort to raise awareness of hunger in our area, students were asked to create their interpretation of hunger and the importance of community service. Nearly 50 works of art were chosen from homeschool, private instruction, and 15 private schools. These included Macon East students Lauren Grace McIntosh and Haley Wren. McIntosh’s mixed media, The Language of Hope, boasts an array of watercolor along with inked words of hunger in different languages from around the world. Wren’s piece, Save Us, is an acrylic depicting a man in front of a wall holding a sign. Their work will be on exhibit through November 11. www.montgomeryparents.com

New York Students Send Supportive Messages to BTW

Longtime Montgomery residents probably were not surprised by the way the community rallied around Booker T. Washington Magnet High after a fire destroyed one of its buildings. It is unlikely, however, that anyone could have predicted support coming from as far away as Long Island, New York. That is exactly what happened when students from Jericho High School in Jericho, New York, wrote and designed notes of encouragement to BTW faculty and students. The project was the brainchild of Jericho High teacher Nadine Bouler, who said said she was in Monroe County, Ala., visiting in-laws when she heard about the fire at BTW and felt the need to help out in some way. She enlisted the help of her colleagues in the project, which she called “Flowers for Friends.” All told, she was able to collect about 500 postcards with supportive messages.

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Holy Cross Discovers Air Has Matter

Holy Cross Episcopal School fourthgrade students enjoyed learning about scientific principles so much that they took a hypothesis and turned it into a scientific experiment. Students in Nancy Stankard’s class filled balloons with air as a part of their study of mass. When the balloons inflated, students could conclude that air is matter because it in fact takes up space and mass. The students enjoy exploring and proving theories that they are studying using tangible examples in class together. From left are Landon Williams and Najji Burton.

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Montgomery Academy Hosts Author Watt Key

Watt Key, a notable Alabama author, spent the day with Montgomery Academy fifth- through eighth-grade students October 11. Key writes high-interest novels in the genre of realistic, survival fiction. After a breakfast with MA faculty and administration, he spoke to the whole middle school on what it takes to be a published author. Each grade level enjoyed an hour of discussion on three of his books: Terror at Bottle Creek for 8th grade, Deep Water for the 5th/6th grade, and Hideout for 7th grade. Students who read all six of his novels ate lunch with Key and he somehow squeezed in the time to sign 132 books purchased by students. Concluding the day, he again met with the middle school to discuss how his most famous book, Alabama Moon, was made into a full-length movie. Key’s warm personality and dedication to authorship served as an inspiration to all who heard him.

STJ Marching Trojans Earn Superior Ratings

Floyd Student Dances with Performers in the Hispanic Flamenco Art and Dance Concert

Every year, the FMMS Spanish Club students attend the Hispanic Art and Dance Concert at the Davis Theatre. Students have the opportunity to witness the expressive art forms of the Spanish culture through Dances and Songs. Sra. Henley’s 6th Grade student Eric Hinson had the privilege to dance with the performers during the event. After the show, students went to San Marcos to taste some Spanish food. Some students even had the opportunity to speak to the staff in the target language. This was a very educational field trip. Students were indeed able to demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between the practices and perspectives of the Spanish culture. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

The Saint James Marching Trojans, directed by Dr. Greg Jackson, performed in the 35th Heart of Dixie Band Festival on October 13—and left the field with Superior ratings! In a pool of 18 A, AA and AAA bands, the Trojans performed with a total of seven 1A bands. They earned Superior ratings for Drum Major, Percussion, and Overall Band Performance. Senior Matthew Nelson, shown, serves as drum major for the Trojans. www.montgomeryparents.com

Holy Cross Episcopal Celebrates Annual Blessing of the Animals Holy Cross Episcopal School’s annual Blessing of the Animals was celebrated on October 4. The Blessing of the Animals is a tradition among Episcopal churches and schools that provides an opportunity for families to bring beloved pets to receive a blessing from priests. The Rev. Jamie Osborne, associate rector of St. John’s

Episcopal Church, and The Rev. David Peeples, priest in charge of All Saints Episcopal Church, were the priests gathered to bless all of the pets. The Blessing of the Animals is a tradition honoring St. Francis of Assisi which started more than 800 years ago and is held during the week of his Feast Day. St.

Francis introduced the idea that animals are a part of creation and that humans must be responsible stewards over them. The service began with Principal Kathy Taylor’s warm greetings, followed with the song “Rise and Shine” led by music teacher Beverly Fain as she led our students and guests through the verses about the original gathering of animals two by two to Noah’s Ark. Following the service, the priests moved into the congregation praying an individual blessing over each pet. Holy Cross Episcopal School combined Blessing of the Animals with the opportunity to provide community support for the Elmore County Humane Society. The children, with the help of their parents, brought food for dogs and cats, and numerous other supplies. Executive Director Rea Cord from the Humane Society of Elmore County was here to pick up the very generous supplies donated by the Holy Cross community. Marcia Bazzell, organizer of the outreach project for the day, and students helped load the supplies into Cord’s vehicle to go back to the shelter to be put in immediate use. The Rev. David Peeples, priest in charge of All Saints Episcopal Church, blesses a Holy Cross family’s cherished dog during the Blessing of the Animals service.

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Macon East Second-Graders Learn About Family Trees

Kathy Loomis’s second-grade students at Macon East Academy recently completed their unit on families. Students learned how traditions, relatives, ancestors and keepsakes are all part of a family’s history. They made their own family tree, interviewed one of their relatives, and shared a keepsake that is special to their family. The second-graders enjoyed learning more about their own families as well as their friends’ family histories.

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Trinity Student Wins ‘Howl-iday’ Art Contest

Evangel Christian Academy Names 2018 Homecoming Court

Evangel Christian Academy recently named its homecoming court. The ninth-grade attendant was Karley Blankenship, tenth-grade attendant was Bailey Houser, and eleventh-grade attendant was Ayannia Clark. Skylar Brooks and Corryne Blanks were the twelfth-grade attendants. Dymon Tucker was named ECA’s homecoming queen. The court was presented during ECA’s homecoming football game.

Trinity Presbyterian School 7th-grader Bentley Harris was recognized as the grand-prize winner for the Montgomery Humane Society’s “Howl-iday” card contest! Her art will be used for the Montgomery Humane Society’s Christmas card this year. Trinity 3rd-grader Kate Hale won first place in the K-4th grade division. Both students were recognized at the annual “Walk ‘N Wag” festival on the grounds of the Blount Cultural Park at the Shakespeare Theatre. The Montgomery Humane Society’s “Howliday” Card Art Contest raises awareness about pet responsibility and caring for the animals they have at the shelter.

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Student Council Elections @ Churchill

Churchill Academy High School students participated in Student Council elections in September. Every aspect of the political process was covered as students advertised, shared their platforms, voted, and received election results. Congratulations to every student who participated in the voting process and to those selected for positions in the 2018-19 year. Student Council officers are: President Teneal Foster, Vice President Tanner Collier, Secretary Cassie McVay, and class representatives Blair Rhodes, Peyton White and Andre Underwood.

Monopoly Teaches SUA About Economics

Success Unlimited Academy highschoolers had the opportunity to gain real-life economics practice while playing Monopoly recently. For some of Sharion Vandervortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students who had not encountered the game, they quickly learned the challenge was to be the last contestant standing, while acquiring economic gains in monetary wealth and real estate. Players strategized to gain power and financial control of various properties on the board, including hotels, homes and companies. Vandervortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students competed four at a time while challenging each other over control of the board. By using theories of economics learned in their class, students were savvy at conquering the challenge. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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Macon East Second-Graders Entertain Special Dog Guest

Mrs. Mary Hughes, from the Montgomery Humane Society, and her service dog Larry, came to Macon East Academy October 23 to teach dog safety tips to the third-graders. Students learned how to introduce themselves to an unfamiliar dog in order to pet it. They also learned to identify body language to tell if the dog is happy, angry, playful, or afraid. Another important discussion covered the things to have ready when adopting or buying a dog. Pets require about the same things as humans in order to be healthy and happy. The best part of the visit was getting to pet Larry, the dog.

Trinity Students Work Together on Engineering Skills in Library Projects

Over the past few weeks, the Trinity Presbyterian Upper School Library Cyber Cafe has been transformed into an exciting display of Lego projects! Ms. Hastey has created an environment where students from kindergarten through 12th grade are allowed the opportunity to work cooperatively to test their engineering skills. They’ve assembled a carousel, ferris wheel and rollercoaster, all which have battery-powered moving parts. The newest project is a robot and we can’t wait to see how it works! Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Montgomery Academy Holds Senior Service Day

Montgomery Academy seniors recently spent the day volunteering at six different local agencies, including Mary Ellenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hearth at Nellie Burge, Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama, Medical Outreach Ministries, MCA Headstart, Montgomery Area Council On Aging, and Narrowlane Headstart. Students put together furniture, entertained pre-school children, cleaned and stocked supply closets, sorted dog food, and delivered Meals on Wheels. MAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Service club, H.E.A.R.T. (Helping Eagles Are Right There), organized and planned this event.

ACA Celebrates Homecoming

Alabama Christian Academy had an incredible Homecoming Week. The Homecoming court was made up of ladies that were nominated and voted on by their classmates. ACA brought the week of festivities to a close by crowning 2018 Homecoming Queen Janie Szoboszlay.

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Saint James Students Earn High Accolades at Art Show

ECA Students Meet at the School’s Flagpole to Pray

Recently, the students from Evangel Christian Academy joined together at the school’s flagpole to pray for their school, county, state,and country. The annual “See You at the Pole” event was celebrated by students all across the U.S. This year’s theme was “Broken, I Fall on My Knees Before the Father.” Pastors and members of Evangel Church were also present, including Rev. Michael Rippy, head pastor of Evangel Church and president of ECA. Micah Brown, an ECA student, delivered a short sermon based on the theme. Logan Temple and Gracie Thompson led praise and worship. When an invitation to pray was given to the crowd, several parents and students volunteered to pray for ECA and for the U.S.

Saint James middle and high school art and photography students earned high honors at the 40th Annual School Art Show at the Alabama National Fair in late September. Two Saint James faculty members teach the students whose art and photography was submitted, Evelyn Shoults and Bethany Davis. Both Shoults and Davis proudly announced their students’ achievements to the school community and shared the exhibited artwork with parents and friends of the school. For photography, senior Amanda Grate took first place in three categories: People/ Portraits, Wildlife/Pets, and Still Life/Foliage; second place in Macro; and honorable mention in Macro. Junior Gracie Sullivan was awarded first place in Architecture; second place in Landscape/Scenic; and honorable mention in both People/Portraits and Wildlife/Pets. Junior Margaret Anne McNeill was awarded third place in Wildlife/Pets and honorable mention in Still Life/Foliage. In the art show, senior Virginia Williams was awarded first place in Etching; senior Kylie Eng took second place in Watercolor; senior Christine Choi took second place in Drawing; senior Camilla Richardson took second place in Printmaking; senior Lizzy Headley took second place in Black and White Drawing; and senior Greta Decker was awarded third place in Drawing. Freshman Aroa Jung was awarded first place in Drawing and second place in Mixed Media. Freshman Rachel Kim earned first place in Mixed Media. Saint James middle school students who were awarded honors in the art show include seventh-grade students Sarah Park, who won second place in Drawing, and Wendy Stombaugh, who won third place in Drawing. From pre-school to graduation, Saint James students are enveloped in the fine and performing arts through comprehensive arts education that is integrated throughout the curriculum. Shown, Shoes, a watercolor created by senior Kylie Eng.

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Forest Avenue Hosts Annual Back to School Bash

On September 21, the Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School PTA hosted the school’s biggest annual fundraiser—the Back to School Bash. A crowd of students, parents, teachers and friends of Forest Avenue filled the school’s backyard and playground area for a spectacular carnival. The ticketed event brings in thousands of dollars to help support students and teachers throughout the year. The event featured a petting zoo including llamas, camels and a giant tortoise; a rock wall; carnival games; inflatables; face painting; music and dancing; exciting performances by U.S. Yoshukai Karate, Tiger Park Taekwondo, and the Huntingdon College cheerleaders; and the chance to dunk FAAM teachers in the dunk tank! Big Mo also made a special appearance at the event. This year’s theme was “Shine Your Light at FAAM.” Fifth-grade student Garrett Barfield designed the T-shirt for the event. During the week leading up to the event, students participated in Bash-themed dress-up days, including “Silly Socks Day,” “Crazy Hair Day” and “Shine Your Light Day,” in which students wore shirts that show how they shine their own light in the community.

Lanier Wins Awards at Troy University’s J-Day

Sidney Lanier High’s The Blue & White brought home top awards in School News, Layout & Design, and Photography at this year’s J-Day competition at Troy University. The annual J-Day Journalism Workshop features various hands-on training attuned to students’ interests: multimedia, yearbook and broadcast journalism. Students also participate in a media competition, where they receive praise and constructive criticism on submitted work. “I am very proud of the fact that a Montgomery high school has taken the initiative to produce a journalism-based publication,” wrote one judge in the critique. “The skills you can learn in a journalism skillset will not only form unique applications on resumes, but will also build your ability to communicate with others.” Lanier students also have TV Production as an option and produce the show POET Vision. Three shows from the previous academic year were submitted for J-Day competition. While the entries did not place for top awards, the judges were complimentary of the “good anchoring.” Also, judges offered advice on lighting and audio. Those issues are currently being addressed, says mass media teacheradviser Ken Spear, who added that Lanier’s TV Production classes anticipate support as a Career Tech program. “We were able to procure more equipment, such as DSLR cameras and microphones, while on a shoestring budget,” Spear said. “Blue & White Productions will be ready to present a broadcast with better quality.” Shown, Tatiyana Campbell, a senior and second-year staff member of The Blue & White, accepts Best Layout & Design Award. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Catholic Senior Participates in DYW Competition

Montgomery Catholic senior Jimmiah Fenderson participated in Montgomery’s Distinguished Young Women Program with 14 other senior girls from Montgomery. They all competed to become the next Distinguished Young Woman of Montgomery County who would then advance to the state competition. This program, formerly known as Junior Miss, encourages high school senior girls to exhibit a variety of personal and professional competencies. Contestants had to exercise professional skills, which included writing an essay, being interviewed, and speaking in front of a large audience. They demonstrated physical fitness through a choreographed aerobic dance routine. Finally, every contestant showed off a special talent, which gave the audience insight into each girl’s unique personality. Fenderson, who aspires to become a pediatrician, came out on top in two categories. She won the physical fitness portion, thanks to her conditioning as a student athlete, and she also won the “Self Expression” extemporaneous public speaking category. Each contestant was given the same prompt shortly before the program began that had to be answered in front of the audience: “What advice has shaped who you are today?” Fenderson’s answer was short and inspiring: “There are two types of people in this world: those who make excuses, and those who find a way.” She went on to say that labels do not define a person, nor do they limit their capabilities, and that she writes her own book and forges her own path. While she did not win the overall competition, she was awarded $21,000 in scholarship money because of her performance. Fenderson has not yet decided on the college she will attend in the fall, but doors are opening for her in all directions. 38

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Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Marching Band Receives Full Superior Ratings and Best in Class Award!

The Trinity Presbyterian Wildcat Pride Marching Band earned full superior ratings for their performance October 6 in the Lake Martin Invitational, hosted by Benjamin Russell High School. They also earned multiple Best in Class awards, including Percussion, Majorette, Colorguard, and Band. Performing in Class A (up to 20 winds), the band gave one of their best performances of the year with their 2018 program, “This is My Shot.” The show features the songs of hit musicals and Broadway shows including La La Land, Moulin Rouge, Hamilton and The Greatest Showman. Senior Band members are shown from left: Den Pendleton, Kathryn Toole, Maggie Cooner, Garrett Flowers, Theo Hornsby, Bailey Blake, LeeAnn Palmer, Peyton Lankford, Jackson Adcock and Madden Bain.

Holy Cross Outreach Collects Supplies for Humane Society

In conjunction with Holy Cross Episcopal School’s annual Blessing of the Animals service, students and parents collected much-needed supplies to help cats and dogs at the Humane Society of Elmore County. Rea Cord from the HSEC was in attendance to collect all donations and take them immediately back to distribute to the animals. Holy Cross enjoys organizing outreach projects for many worthy causes and organizations throughout the River Region.

Montgomery Academy Students Participate in Poetry Out Loud Contest

Montgomery Academy Upper School students participated in Poetry Out Loud, an annual national recitation competition that was created by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation. Poetry Out Loud encourages students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence and learn about literary history and contemporary life. Since 2005, Poetry Out Loud has grown to reach more than 3 million students and 50,000 teachers from 10,000 schools in every state. Students have a list of poems from which to choose; they recite one poem in the school competition and three in the regional competition, which will be held at Huntingdon College in December. Winners of the regional competition will advance to the state competition in January. Participants were judged by three judges—Randy Foster, Ana Baker and Jay Rye—who judged them on presence, performance and accuracy. Ninth-graders set the bar—and swept the contest—with Sarah Kate Barton and Gianna Foti winning the school competition. They will go on to compete in the regional competition and, along with runners-up Elle Hughes and Marguerite Dillon, are invited to a workshop at Troy University to hone their recitation skills. Carole Yeaman organized this event along with Scott Richburg. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Hispanic Heritage Month @ The Rock!

The sophomore Spanish class at The Rock School recently celebrated Hispanic History Month. In addition to learning the language, customs and holidays, these students were assigned Hispanic/Latino figures for research and study. The exhibit displays their work by listing the contributions of each “Hispanic Hero” and the positive effects each had in their respective communities. Students were also expected to use vocabulary and sentence structure skills to deliver an oral report on their assigned figure. From left are: Alexandria Conner, Robin Oliver, Andeana Stewart, Kiaura Johnson, Taylor McGill, Cyniah Turner and Serah Rohmeyer.

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MEA Students Share Family History

The third grade at Macon East Academy has been studying the Anasazi Indians who lived in Mesa Verde, Colorado, from the 1300s to about 1450. Although they disappeared without a trace, scientists learned about their culture from the many artifacts that were left behind. As a culmination activity, teacher Sandra Thomas assigned each student to bring an artifact that was important to their own family history to share with the class. Objects from WWII, the Vietnam War, and the Iraqi Freedom Operation were presented, as well as objects from the daily lives of ancestors—an art box, a butter press, a ring, a cattle brander, and a pressing iron.

ACA Commits to Year of Serving Others

This year Alabama Christian Academy has committed to a year of service. “We Serve” was launched as an opportunity to get our student body involved in our local community and serving anywhere that help is needed. We kicked off the year by partnering with the Red Cross on 9/11, when students had the opportunity to serve lunch to Montgomery’s first responders. In October, we partnered with Hope Inspired Ministries and helped them update and clean their facilities. The lessons learned by ACA students are countless as they give of themselves and their time. Making a difference can come in many shapes and sizes, and we are excited to make a small difference in our great community. ACA students are shown at Hope Inspired Ministries.

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Holy Cross Celebrates Grandparents Day

Friday, October 19, was one of the most beloved days in the entire school year for Holy Cross Episcopal School. Grandparents travelled from all over the Southeast just to be able to attend for their grandchild and be able to participate in all the festivities. So many wonderful events were planned for their special day to share. First, to honor all grandparents, students from grades pre-K to 6th presented musical selections to express their love and gratitude. The songs were “Let’s Go See Our Grandparents,” “Family Tree,” “Happy, Happy Grandparents Day,” “You Are My Sunshine,” “Thank You Grandma and Grandpa,” and concluded with the Holy Cross Show Choir singing “You Raise Me Up” in two-part harmony conducted by music teacher Beverly Fain. The rest of the day’s activities featured professional family photos made with each child and grandparents, a tour of the classrooms to visit with grade-level teachers and enrichment teachers, an opportunity to walk out to the beautiful Chapel of the Annunciation where students and teachers attend daily morning worship services, the annual book fair in the library, and a delicious fun snack to share together to end the day. From left, great-grandmother Mary Ellen Andrews and grandfather Wes Andrews with Holy Cross student Bethany Hamilton.

Macon East Holds Homecoming

Homecoming is always an exciting time at Macon East Academy, and this year was no exception. With a week full of themed dress-up days including country vs. country club, favorite celebrity or character day, battle of the classes, and spirit day, the elementary through high school students enjoyed the fun. Other activities throughout the week were a boys’ volleyball tournament, glow pep rally, and the annual Homecoming parade and tailgate. The Knights easily defeated Success Unlimited Academy in the football game with a large crowd of fans and alumni in attendance. Macon East’s homecoming court was presented on the field at halftime with Bailey Nyberg named as this year’s queen. She currently serves as the SGA president, plays varsity volleyball, and represented Macon East this summer at Alabama’s Girls State. Other members of this year’s Homecoming Court were Sydney Weverink, Ellie Kate Wilkerson, Anne Auston Wright (seniors), Kayla Boroff, Spencer Lindemood, Jules Thames (juniors), Sara Stuckey, Mary Hunter Wright (sophomores), Ali Churchwell (freshman), Madison May (8th grade), and Pressley Graham (7th grade). From left are seniors Ellie Kate Wilkerson, Queen Bailey Nyberg, Anne Auston Wright and Sydney Weverink and their fathers.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Catholic RoboKnights Battle at the Beach

Space Bob Ross took a recent trip to the beach, but it wasn’t to dip its servos into the surf. Instead, it was piloted by the Montgomery Catholic RoboKnights robotics team at the Vex Robotics Bots on the Beach competition in Gulf Shores. The five-person Space Bob Ross team includes Arthur Murray, Aidan Cochran, Hunter Vaccaro, Chris Lathram and Catherine Aaron. Each member has a different area of expertise, including designing, programming, building, documenting and driving. Each robotics team builds a robot capable of completing certain tasks to earn points. This year’s game, “Turning Point”, has several different challenges. There are several caps with one blue side and one red side. The robot can flip the cap to its team’s color to earn points or pick up the cap and place it onto a stand for additional points. There are three stands with three flags of different heights. The robot can push the bottom flag to its color to earn points, or it can throw a ball at the upper two flags to earn additional points. There is also a platform with two different heights where the robot can park at the end of the round. Parking on the higher platform earns more points. The first 15 seconds of the round allow the robot to complete tasks autonomously, and the remainder of the round is driver-controlled. The performance of the Space Bob Ross team earned them a spot in the upcoming state competition and they are currently ranked 28th in the world for skills. Although this was a successful trip, the RoboKnights are working hard to improve their performance as the competition only gets harder as the season progresses. Montgomery Catholic will host a Vex Robotics competition on November 3. www.montgomeryparents.com

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SUA Fifth-Graders Claim ‘SUA Strong’ Following Hurricane Michael

Hurricane Michael surely made a path of destruction as it hit landfall in Alabama; however, never would Success Unlimited Academy imagine its destruction would touch their facility. Wednesday evening, October 10, Hurricane Michael’s path caused a microburst to extensively damage the elementary classrooms on the lower campus. Fifth-grade teacher Recenah Clinton witnessed her classroom as a complete loss. Just hours before the microburst hit, student athletes had completed practice for the day; therefore, no one was in the gym building. Fire alarms screamed loudly as Montgomery police, along with SUA administration, responded to the incident. The scene was frightening; however, administrative staff were relieved that no individuals were harmed. Plans were made to relocate all elementary classes. Thursday was an extensive shuffle to have the campus ready again for Monday morning. Clinton’s students claimed the phrase “We’re SUA Strong,” and they gathered near the damaged classroom to praise God through their sincere prayers that lives were spared. SUA students are strong, resilient and spiritually mature, and have not allowed this tragic event to steal the joy they have for attending school and learning.

Montgomery Academy Lower School Chorus Earns Superior Ratings

The Montgomery Academy Lower School Chorus competed on October 1 at the Alabama National Fair Invitational Choral Festival. Twenty-three choirs from around the state participated. The Lower School Chorus was the only elementary chorus competing and they received Superior ratings with an overall score of 91! “We are very proud of their performance against a tough slate of mostly high school choirs,” said Director Cliff Huckabee.

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Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Alumnus Wesley Curles Receives Prestigious Cliff Hare Award

Trinity School alumnus Wesley Curles (‘14) recently received the prestigious 2018 Cliff Hare Award and was recognized during the Auburn football game on September 29. The recipient of the Cliff Hare Award is given annually to a senior student-athlete for academic and athletic success as well as leadership, integrity and courage. Curles earned an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, received the 2017-18 SEC Brad C. Davis Community Service Award, the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award from President Steven Leath, and was a Rhodes Scholarship nominee. “Looking back on it now, I’m able to compare my experience at Auburn to what I expected and it exceeded every expectation and dream,” Curles said. “And I’m just overwhelmed with thankfulness.” Currently, Curles is a first-year student at the University of Alabama-Birmingham’s medical school. He graduated from Auburn University in the spring of 2018 with a decorated career for Auburn’s cross country and track and field teams, graduating in biomedical sciences with a 3.96 GPA. Curles plans to practice pediatrics or family medicine, finished fourth in the mile at the 2017 SEC Indoor Championships and fifth in the 1500 meters at SEC Outdoors as a junior. He was voted team captain twice by his teammates during his time on the Auburn cross country and track and field teams. The Trinity family extends a hearty congratulations to Wesley, and to his family, for this well deserved and tremendous honor.

MA Takes on Service Projects for Homecoming

During Homecoming week, Montgomery Academy’s Lower and Middle Schools completed projects related to our partnership with the Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama. The Lower School collected items including chapstick, socks, hard candies, puzzle books, snacks and drinks to put together chemo comfort care packages for patients. Middle School students made no-sew fleece blankets to complement the care packages. The Upper School kicked off MA’s annual Food for Kids Backpack Program. During this school year, MA will provide weekend food bags to 15 children who have been identified as at risk of returning to school hungry each Monday morning.

Brew Tech Robotics Students Bring Home Four Awards From Tournament

Brewbaker Technology Magnet High robotics students brought home four awards from the Gulf Shores Middle School Bots on the Beach tournament. That includes the two Tournament Champion Awards for the top two-team alliance, i.e. the overall winners of the tournament. Brew Tech students also won a Design Award and a Judges Award. A total of 18 Brew Tech students and five robots competed at the VEX Robotics Turning Point Tournament. The team of Faith Smith, Tiara Jackson, Julia Fromm and Alexia Caldwell won both a Tournament Champion Award and the Judges Award for special recognition. The team of Eric Johnson, Gaye Ndoye and Jamari Parham won the other Tournament Champion Award. The team of Chris Johnson, Brett Tolerson, Carlos Ricardo and Charlie Longmire won the Design Award. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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TRINITY 2018

Accredited K3 through 12th grade Independent College-Preparatory School

One World. One School. One Family. Building life-long relationships through an intentional focus on mentors and leadership

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

PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES ARE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR THESE SPECIAL EVENTS

GRAND STORY HOUR Prospective K3, K4, K5 Students, Parents or Grandparents November 8, 2018 at 8:15 AM December 6, 2018 at 1:30 PM

K3-K5 OPEN HOUSE Prospective Parents of K3, K4, K5 Students January 17, 2019 at 6:00 PM

EXTRAORDINARY EDUCATION EXTRAORDINARY ENVIRONMENT EXTRAORDINARY EXPECTATIONS

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November is upon us and with it a time for reflection and thanksgiving. We in the Pike Road Schools family have much to be thankful for. In the past year we have grown to over 1,850 students. We have added a third school campus at Georgia Washington, started offering Advanced Placement courses through an A+ College Ready grant, began playing varsity sports, and continued to focus on helping our students to think, innovate, and create. While we were busy growing, we continued to work on learning. Pike Road Schools attained AdvancED system accreditation in 2018 with a very high score, earning accreditation through 2023. Our students and teachers continue to share with the rest of the state, leading the way

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

in improving education through hosting walkthroughs for educators to see how we are teaching and learning. These walkthroughs are sponsored by A+, an Alabama group working to improve our schools. The Pike Road Way focuses on students taking responsibility for their own learning, and learning to think, innovate, and create. We are looking forward to the release of the state report card so everyone can see the effect that learner engagement is having on our students. We are a family in Pike Road Schools, and we are proud of our family members and supportive of their efforts. We are thankful for our education family, the quality and commitment of our family members, and the way we have grown closer through the struggles of growing a new school system. We are thankful for a school board that cares about quality education, providing a wide array of opportunities to our students, and making this the best school system in the state. We are thankful for a supportive and caring community, for a mayor and town council that love our

schools and want the very best for them, and back that sentiment up with actions and resources. We are thankful for loving parents who genuinely care about the quality of their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education and will partner with us to help their children learn and grow. We are thankful for Pike Road citizens who are not parents but have the best interest of the community and its children at heart and so are willing to financially support schools through taxes. Most of all, as we attempt to count our bountiful blessings, we are thankful for the mercy and grace of a loving God. We wish for you a wonderful time of thanksgiving this season.

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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PRS Offers Student-Led Edcamp

Pike Road Schools will hold its first school-sponsored student-led Edcamp Saturday, November 3, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Pike Road Elementary School. This will work much like a regular Edcamp, but powered by learner voice! Learners from 3rd-12th grade are able to attend. They will be able to teach a session if they choose, and attend sessions as well. Session ideas include, but are not limited to: *edtech (apps, programs, coding) *robotics *study habits, note taking skills, time management, ACT or SAT prep help *creating or out of the box design ideas *community service or passion projects *clubs and organizations (how to start, network, etc) If you have never experienced an Edcamp before, watch this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7DwCI 7j0Bg&feature=youtu.be The only difference is this one will be completely student-driven!

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Pike Road High School Juniors Create Pep Squad

On the first day of school, a group of juniors at Pike Road High School came up with a brilliant idea to shake things up at school and sporting events. “A Pep Squad,” suggested one student leader, Aziah Seals. The Pep Squad is an organization created by PRHS students in an effort to improve the number of students in the student section to support Pike Road athletes. “The point of this club is to bring spirit into our school’s games and pep rallies,” says student contributor Nia White, “and we want it to be a tradition that outlives the first four graduating classes.” The first order of business was to raise awareness to the lead learners (teachers), administration and, most importantly, the student body, telling them what the Pep Squad actually is. The second step was to recruit more students and to come up with a way to get approval from the administration. They spoke to their peers, working like car salesmen to sell them an opportunity to be a part of an organization that was founded by students for students. The group’s leaders spoke to lead learners Ms. Forte and Mrs. Boling about becoming the organization’s adult sponsors and what they needed to do next to get administrative approval. As instructed by their sponsors, the group got together and created a digital presentation that was edited and then forwarded to Principal Sikes, and the rest is history. For the first time ever, the Pike Road Patriots now have their very own Pep Squad to lead the student section and to spice up pep rallies. This article was contributed by Pike Road High School student Aziah Seals.

Hay, Look at Us in Pike Road Communities!

Pike Road Students Learn Stop Motion Animation

Catherine Kenny, a lead learner at Pike Road Middle School, recently introduced Pike Road 5th-grade technology education students to the art of stop motion animation as a form of movie making. Thanks to generous donations through our Pike Road Schools Adopt A Classroom campaign, Kenny was able to purchase several iPad stands which allow the students to experiment and develop their own stop motion animation movie making skills. Students are just getting started, but their imaginations are soaring. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Pike Road Schools wants its students to understand the living history of the town they live in, so each of the PRS schools joined in the community “Hay, Look at Us!” competition. All three schools plus the PRS Leo Club, a student branch of the Pike Road Lions Club, decorated a hay bale. Each school recruited students, teachers and volunteers to design and decorate. The more people who helped, the more creative the design. Each school, of course, hoped to receive first place, so there was a little healthy competition among them! The judging took place on October 23, and hay bales will remain up through November 3. Nearly 40 neighborhoods, organizations and businesses participated. So the community can take a driving tour of this year’s entries, a map of participating locations is available at www.pikeroad.us. Grab the family, check out this year’s creative designs and tour our beautiful community! If you are unable to tour the hay bales, photos of this year’s entries are available at facebook.com/townofpikeroad. 48

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Pike Road 6th-Graders Study Meteorology

Learners in Pike Road Middle School’s C6 Community have spent the past few weeks creating severe weather forecasts using green screen technology. Each learner selected a city and a severe weather event as his focus, then worked to research and create a weather map to visually present a forecast. After writing a script for their forecast, learners filmed themselves in front of the green screen, and used their MacBooks to produce their final forecast, inserting their weather maps as background. Learners enjoyed dressing up to film their forecasts, and taking on the role of an essential community member. “Meteorologists are important because they keep people safe and educate the community about weather,” said C6 learner Ella Grace. “It’s cool to see how technology helps with that. This will probably be my favorite project this year.”

PRHS Students Participate in Dual Enrollment & Career Tech Courses

Pike Road High School (PRHS) has formed partnerships with Faulkner University, Trenholm State Community College, and University of Alabama Early College to offer dual enrollment courses. PRHS currently has 46 students participating in dual enrollment courses. Beginning in 10th grade, students can take courses in: automotive manufacturing, technology, computer information systems, medical assisting, graphic design, welding, English Composition 101 and English Composition 102. To participate in career tech courses, students must have at least a 2.5 GPA. To participate in the dual enrollment academic courses, students must have a qualifying ACT/SAT score. These courses offer PRHS students the opportunity to take a college course while still in high school and receive college credit. The expectations and workload are equivalent to that of a college student. Dual enrollment courses help our students explore the world of college curricula while still enjoying the safe confines of their PRHS environment.

PRES Holds Successful Box Top Competition

Pike Road Elementary School (PRES) had a very successful Box Tops competition. Box Tops for Education was started by General Mills in 1996 as a way to support education and benefit America’s schools. The program is very simple—students clip the box tops and the school earns money for each. The following PRES communitiy (grade-level) winners celebrated with an ice cream party: CK Ms. Beck: 399; C1 Ms. Woodham: 667; C2 Ms. Franklin: 219; C3 Ms. Mitchell: 225; and C4 Ms. Ward: 667. Braydon Adams in Ms. Ward’s C4 class was the top Box Top collector with 600 Box Tops! He received a $20 gift certificate to the PRES book fair.

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Pike Road High School Forms New Show Choir In August, the first-ever Pike Road High School show choir group was founded. This was an exciting opportunity for many students, as it was a brand-new opportunity to get involved in a new extracurricular and a chance for experienced students to try it out at the school. Although the group won’t be doing any competitions, the students

will participate in a holiday market, PTA functions, and a holiday and spring concert, focusing on pop and holiday music. During Mrs. Taylor’s interview, the school asked her if she would be interested in starting a show choir here, due to her background helping with Trinity’s group. Of course, she said yes. Tryouts were held the week of August 12 over a span of four challenging days, and everyone who tried out gave their all in order to compete. “I was surprised at how much interest we had,” said Taylor. “I was amazed by the level of talent in the school.” Sophomore Clara Long said, “The tryouts were great! Mrs. Taylor made sure everyone was comfortable, and made sure no one was nervous.”

Freshman Shelby Johnson said, “I wasn’t really prepared for the singing tryouts but Mrs. Taylor can really recognize talent.” Taylor said that she was most excited to see the program go from a concept to eighteen students on stage performing to the best of their abilities. “I think the season will go great!” she said. The community is also eager to see what will become of the newest club. Tina Tidwell, the mother of a participant, said that she couldn’t wait to see how the kids come together to become one voice. “We’ve stressed academics and athletics but it’s important to show that we also have creativity. This will show that we’re a well-rounded institution,” said history teacher David Koda. “Since it’s our first year, we obviously don’t have a lot of experience but I think we have a really good group with lots of potential,” said student Victoria Tidwell. This article was contributed by Pike Road High School student Eva Neuenschwander.

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2018 2011

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As the leaves begin to change and the weather turns cool, we are all reminded that the month of November is a time for expressing gratitude. Our Autauga County School System is truly blessed to have so many areas for which to be thankful! Our students are thriving, our schools are safe, and we are given the opportunity to change lives on a daily basis! One area we are extremely thankful for is the creativity of our students. The Autauga County Board of Education has had the privilege of being a canvas for the students in Autauga County. The art class at Prattville High School, along with

their teacher Ms. Jessica Rape, have been creating seasonal landscapes on the front of our central office. From beach chairs to pumpkins, as the seasons change so does the artwork. We look forward to the students from Billingsley School creating a festive winter scene as we return from the Thanksgiving holidays. Prattville Primary School Principal Holly McNider was recently notified her school was designated a 2018-2019 Blue Cross Blue Shield “Be Healthy School.” They received a $6,100 grant for technology improvements in the physical education department. Funds will be used to purchase a new projector system with a top of the line sound system, gaming systems and pedometers. Children will track their physical education goals and celebrate each milestone. As we prepare to celebrate Veterans’ Day, I would like to take a moment to

remember those who gave their lives in service to our country and thank those who continue to serve today. Our military men and women (past and present) change lives and impact all of us. Please take a moment to express your gratitude to true American heroes, and remember that our schools will be closed November 12th in their honor. Remember, schools will be closed November 19th-23rd for Thanksgiving. I hope everyone has a nice holiday with family and friends. We truly have so much to be thankful for in Autauga County!

Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 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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PJHS Launches Ambassador Group

Prattville Junior High School has launched a new group of Student Ambassadors, the DiploCATS. This eclectic group serves as ambassadors for our school by providing tours, serving refreshments to parents, escorting parents on Report Card Day and other activities when guests are visiting the school. They are doing a great job promoting PJHS!

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Billingsley, Pine Level Chosen Alabama Bicentennial Schools

PCA Senior Named National Merit Commended Student

Prattville Christian Academy senior Ethan Morris was named a Commended Student in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSP). The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic scholarship competition for recognition and scholarships administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, a privately funded, not-for-profit organization. Nearly 34,000 Commended Students nationwide are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. These students rank among the top five percent of the more than 1.6 million students who entered the 2019 competition by taking the 2017 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. At PCA, Morris is actively involved in various organizations on campus, including National Honor Society, Speech and Debate, and PCA’s school newspaper, The Panther Progress. He spent the previous two summers as a national youth correspondent at the Washington Journalism and Media Conference and as a student at the prestigious Rhodes Summer Writing Institute. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

On August 3, Governor Kay Ivey announced that Billingsley School and Pine Level Elementary were selected as official Alabama Bicentennial Schools. They were two of the 200 schools selected to receive this special designation and receive a $2,000 grant to fund a project that will allow students to gain an in-depth knowledge of the history of Alabama. At Billingsley, the funds from the grant will provide much-needed technology resources for Billingsley students, as well as art supplies. Students will complete project-based learning activities to research historical facts about Alabama. They will use the technology resources to interview Billingsley residents, which will help document the community’s history. Students from various grade levels will create art projects, and community members will be asked to share historical artifacts that Billingsley School will use as part of the school’s display at the Autauga County Bicentennial Fair on November 16-17. Students from Billingshley are shown above. After discussing with administrators and educators, Pine Level administrators felt that the students at Pine Level Elementary needed a sense of understanding of our state’s geography. Their project will consist of a large magnetic map that will be displayed in the front hall of the entrance to Pine Level. All students will have opportunities throughout the year to interact and learn more about our great state and its many resources. Not only will the map be used for the Bicentennial Celebration but for many years to come. Making connections help students grasp ideas and understand more about their surroundings. Shown below are representatives from Pine Level with Gov. Ivey and State Sen. Clyde Chambliss. Launched by Gov. Ivey in December 2017, the Alabama Bicentennial Schools Initiative encourages all public, private and homeschool students and teachers to participate in the celebration of Alabama’s 200th anniversary of statehood in 2019. In early 2018, all K-12 schools in Alabama were invited to submit a proposal that engages in outreach and improvement projects to connect their classrooms with their communities. For a list of Bicentennial Schools, visit www.alabama200.org. 52

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PJHS Students Take Community Field Trips

Some of our most precious Cats are involved in community-based field trips each week. Students in Mrs. Denneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class cook and serve baked potatoes and provide a coffee bar every other week. Funds raised go toward the community-based trips where students learn to shop in local businesses, order from a restaurant, etc. Coach Burnett provides transportation services for our students each week. Students have partnered with Target, Ollies, Chick-fil-A, etc and shown a tremendous improvement in their ability to be involved in community activities. Thanks to our faculty for supporting our students in their academic and community endeavors.

PJHS Majorettes Compete at Twirltacular

The Prattville Junior High School Majorette team competed in the Oak Mountain Twirltacular and brought home four first-place trophies for their hard work! These ladies provide half-time entertainment at ballgames, participate in pep rallies, show school spirit, and compete in tournaments across central Alabama. Thanks to Coach Handl and Coach Lucas for sponsoring such a great group of young ladies.

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Prattville Baptist Presents Autauga County School Nurses with Supplies

On August 2, Prattville Baptist Hospital, represented by Meg Spires, RN, Chief Nursing Officer, Erica Kirkley, RN, Manger Med Surg and ICU, Brandi Brandt, RN, Assistant Nurse Manager Med Surg and ICU, Jodie Jones, RN, ED Nurse Manager, Darcy Bailey, RN, ED Assistant Nurse Manager, Dessa Kravitz, RN, OR Nurse Manager, and Sheila Savage, RN, Clinical Educator, presented health room supplies to each of the Autauga County school nurses to be used in their schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;along with goody bags for each nurse! Thank you, Prattville Baptist Hospital, for partnering with our school nurses to keep our students healthy!

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PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN

welcomes

DR. MALISSA HOY Now accepting new patients ages newborn to 18 years

PJHS Labs Make Learning Fun

Prattville Junior High teachers work hard every day to make learning relevant in real-life. Our science curriculum includes weekly labs for students. These Cats are learning about chemistry and how to build bonds. Thanks to an amazing faculty for making learning fun on a daily basis!

P HYS I C I A N S TO C H I LDR E N Taylor Medical Complex 470 Taylor Rd, Suite 210 Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 293-5033 P

P H Y S I C I A N S TO C H I L D R E N C h i l d re n s A L . o rg / p hys i c i a n s - t o - c h i l d re n

Prattville Pep Rally Raises Money for School

Prattville Elementary School (PES) students, parents, teachers and staff participated in a large pep rally to raise money for the school. Big Al, Aubie, and mascots from Prattville High School (PHS) and PES interacted with some incredibly excited children. The Prattville High School band was there as well as the cheerleaders. There was also plenty of Alabama and Auburn spirit! The school raised $2,922 to go toward bathroom renovations. This information and photo courtesy of riverregionnews.net. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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Our students – over 11,000 of them – are our “customers.” Our top priority is to provide all our students with a rigorous, relevant educational experience. To accomplish this priority, it is critically important to evaluate the success of our efforts by soliciting input from our stakeholders. Who, then, are our stakeholders? First and foremost, our students are our primary stakeholders. Other stakeholders include parents/guardians, teachers, administrators, secretaries, custodians, bookkeepers, lunchroom workers, bus drivers, community members, and business/industry representatives. How does stakeholder input help us? Finding out what our stakeholders think about various aspects of our schools, including day-to-day operations, student safety, instruction, extracurricular activities, and other areas provides us with varying perspectives on

the quality of the education and services we provide our students. Information gathered from stakeholders can be the impetus for small changes that can be made immediately as well as suggestions that lead to large-scale, long-term improvements (such as identifying needs for construction projects). How do we collect information from stakeholders? I recently held two different student advisory council meetings that included a total of 62 student representatives from our middle and high schools. These groups reflected the diversity of our student population, and they spoke openly about all aspects of their experiences and opinions of their schools. I especially enjoy these meetings because I get to interact with students on a more personal level. The students speak freely about what they like and don’t like as well as their needs and concerns. One thing was clear in both meetings – the students love their schools and want them to be the best they can be. In addition to the student advisory councils, many other councils and committees as well as online surveys are utilized for stakeholder input to ensure quality programs

and services in all areas. Every Career Technical Education program must have an advisory council that includes representatives from that business/industry sector and one or more parents. All Federal programs in our school system, including Title I (for high poverty schools), Title II (for professional development), Title III (for limited English proficient students), Title IV-Part A (for student academic enrichment), and 21st Century Community Learning Center programs, require advisory committees. Parent-teacher organizations in our schools also provide an avenue for parents/guardians to contribute their input and support for our schools. A variety of online surveys are used to gather input from students, parents, and employees. We value our students. Input from stakeholders is invaluable in helping us ensure that every student is empowered and every student succeeds! Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

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Elmore County Schools

Redland Students Cast In ASF Production

Two Redland Elementary students were cast in The Sound of Music at Alabama Shakespeare Festival! Lillie Prestridge, a fifth-grader, was cast as Brigitta and Olivia Polito, a first-grader was cast as Gretl. The musical runs from November 15-December 30. Get your tickets now and support our Redland friends!

Elmore County Tech Center Accepts Aircraft Donation The Elmore County Technical Center (ECTC) and Elmore County Public Schools announce the donation of a Challenger Aircraft for our new Aviation Technology Program at ECTC. The donation comes from Mr. and Mrs. James Hester of Deatsville and will allow us to provide students with easy access to a variety of real, hands-on experiences associated with having the aircraft on our campus. Our instructor, James Stough, and his Aviation Technology students will benefit greatly from having their own aircraft to work on and learn from. We look forward to using this donation as a catalyst to help us grow our Aviation Program into one of the leading programs in Alabama.

Coosada Baptist Church Helps ARIS

Airport Intermediate was the recipient of much kindness provided by Coosada Baptist Church’s 2018 Serve Day. Church members dedicated an afternoon to areas that needed some TLC around the school campus. Student restrooms were enhanced by placing inspirational quotes on the stall doors so that students can see positive messages throughout the school day. Old lattice around air conditioning units was replaced with brand-new lattice. Litter along the school road was removed. Volunteers also tore apart old brokendown picnic tables and built four new picnic tables. Students have already enjoyed lunch outside on the picnic tables. ARIS would like to say a huge THANK YOU to Coosada Baptist Church.

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Elmore County Homeschoolers Take on the World

Wearing national costumes spanning the globe, local homeschoolers reveled in the cultural differences of various countries at the “Around the World” Feast at Academy Days Co-op recently. Pictured are the male and female costume contest winners from each world geography class. In addition to wearing national costumes, the homeschoolers and their parents sampled a broad assortment of native dishes from around the world as a culmination of their studies on world cultures. The Academy Days Co-op, held weekly during the school year at Coosada Baptist Church, is designed for preschool through high school students to learn subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group settings. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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Tallassee Earns Top Honors with Choir and Band

The Pride of Tallassee scored straight Superior ratings at the Daleville Invitational Band Classic on Saturday, September 29. Pictured below left are the senior band members with a collection of their hard-earned hardware. Directors of the THS Band are Robby Glasscock, Melanie Perry and Michael Bird. The Concert Choir and Chamber Choir from Tallassee High also scored straight Superior ratings at the Alabama National Fair Choral Festival October 1. There were 23 choirs in the competition. Tallassee had two of the top three choirs in the entire festival. Below from left are THS Choral Director Amanda Anderson, THS Choral Vice President Miriam Bird, Festival Director and former Robert E. Lee High School Choral Director Gene Davis, THS Choral President Trace Bush, and THS Choral Director Michael Bird.

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

Local Bank President Visits WMS 21st Century Students

Board Member and President/CEO of First Community Bank, Michael Morgan, spoke to the Wetumpka Middle School 21st Century after-school students about the various career paths in the banking industry. The students asked a plethora of questions and were very intrigued. We may have a few future bankers in the works after today!

Holtville Holds Homecoming Festivities

Holtville High School recently held its Homecoming football game and festivities. The cheerleaders held a pep rally for the elementary students. Each year at the pep rally the cheerleaders hand the Best Class Award to the grade that displays the most spirit. This year the Best Class Award went to the HES 4th-grade students. 57

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Elmore County Schools

Eclectic Elementary Names Students of the Month for September

Kindergarten: Peaches Moseley, Dani Sanford, Preslyn Luster, Weston Lucas, Destanie Floyd, Preston Myers; 1st Grade: Emma Sanders, Shawn Compton, Arielle Kendrick, Kendall Johnson, Micah Lett; 2nd Grade: Desirae Floyd, Noah Bracknell, Daughtry Jones, Zoey Gray; 3rd Grade: Carley Walls, Jordan Hill, Mac Robbins, Beau Traylor, Zykira Bowman, Bella Vice; 4th Grade: Joshua Cousins, Hunter Pugh, Caden Bryant, Michael Kelley

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Holtville Chooses Teacher of the Year

Holtville Elementary School announced Kaitlin Sides as the Teacher of the Year for the 2018-19 school year. Sides received her masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in elementary education from AUM and began teaching two years ago. She enjoys using hands-on teaching strategies as well as motivating her students to always be their best.

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

Elmore County Judge Rewards Positive Behavior with Program

Wetumpka Middle seventh-grader Rachel Payne received the Character in Action award through the Elmore County court system. Judge Patrick Pinkston and his staff conceived of the program a few years ago when they were overwhelmed by the cases coming through the juvenile court system. The program was developed as a way to try and recognize the students who were being good examples for their peers. Each middle school in Elmore County has the opportunity to nominate one student each month to receive this award. They have the ceremony every two months and honor the recipients at that time.

Victory Christian Class Visits Zoo

Mr. Nolinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-grade class from Victory Christian Academy had a chance to observe animals up close at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum recently. Students viewed animals from five continents: North America, South America, Africa, Asia and Australia. Zoofari Skylift gave the students the opportunity to view the animals from above. Students also got a chance to feed parakeets in Parakeet Cove, an open-air aviary housing more than 500 parakeets. The Stingray Bay was exciting for the students. Many got to touch and feed the stingrays. For some students, it was their first time to visit the Mann Museum which houses a collection of preserved North American wildlife, aquatic life, artifacts, and fossils. By the end of the day, the students had collected plenty of new data for their science notebooks. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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Elmore County Schools

Airport Road Students Hold Grand Event for Grandparents

Instead of the traditional Grandparents Day luncheon held each year, Airport Road Intermediate School decided to have a “grand event” centered around grandparents spending time completing an activity with their grandchild. It was a time for our students to let their grandparents know how much they are appreciated and respected. Activities included creating a family tree, an interview with the grandparent, and cookies and juice. ARIS welcomed hundreds of grandparents on this day.

Edgewood Participates in ‘See You at the Pole’

Edgewood Academy held a “See You at the Pole” ceremony on September 26. As everyone gathered around the flag, teens from the school’s First Priority group led students, parents and teachers in prayer and devotion related to this year’s theme, “Broken.” Amelia Welch and Cole Freeman led the music. Personal testimonies were shared, Bible scriptures read, and encouraging words were spoken by other high school students. It was an awesome time of worship.

Local Business Supports WHS Theatre Guild

ACTE Announces Alabama Career Coach as National Award Finalist

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has announced Lindsay Jordan, career coach at the Elmore County Technical Center, as the recipient of the 2018 ACTE Region II Career Guidance Award. This award recognizes school counselors and career development professionals who have demonstrated commitment to connecting students with opportunities for success, shown innovation in career exploration and development, and have advocated for CTE as a viable option for all students. As the career coach for Elmore County Schools, Jordan’s primary responsibility is to connect students with opportunities for success. She promotes access and equity to career and technical education programs by offering career development services and activities that are appropriate for students’ age and education level, and she assists in coordinating and promoting CTE and college and career events for Elmore County Schools. Jordan’s career development plan for students begins in the eighth grade, when she sets time each fall to assist middle school counselors and students in developing their education plans. Jordan focuses on information about high school course options with ninthgrade students, particularly the availability of CTE courses at ECTC. Offerings for upperclassmen often include more in-depth career information through classroom speakers and field trips, investigating postsecondary options, and individual advising sessions. Jordan is one of five finalists for the 2019 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Banquet November 28, during ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2018 in San Antonio, Tex.

Wetumpka High School Theatre Guild is grateful for supportive local businesses. Thank you, JoJo’s Mini Golf and Frozen Yogurt, for partnering with us for character desserts and for your financial contribution! If you haven’t tried JoJo’s yogurt and gelato, you are missing something wonderful. #shoplocal

WPD Helps WMS

Thanks so much to the Wetumpka Police Department for donating tape for our Haunted Trail at the Wetumpka Middle School Fall Festival October 23. Big shout out to Jana Wyatt Munro for helping to make it happen. 7th-grade teachers Melanie Powell and Amanda Killough appreciate the support! 59

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Sarah Autry Coosada Elementary

“Throughout my life I have had a love for the heart of a child,” says November’s Teacher of the Month, Sarah Autry. She has been teaching for 13 years at Coosada Elementary. She knew from an early age that she would seek a career path that would impact the life of a child. Autry says there are many rewards to being a teacher. “My job daily is to make the children who enter into my classroom door feel empowered to succeed in their education. How many career paths exist where YOU get the JOY and BLESSING of impacting the heart of a child every day?!” It is evident that Miss Autry has a special bond with her students. As a bride to be, current and former students, along with their parents, recently hosted a bridal shower for her. She adds, “It brings delight to my heart when I get a phone call from a former student or see a former student in public and they want to share their accomplishments and want me to be part of their excitement. Her fiancé, Richard Strickland, says, “Sarah is well deserving of the recognition. She works tirelessly day in and day out to give her students the best classroom experience. She makes learning fun

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

and exciting for her students. She has dedicated her life to serving our youth and she does so with a gracious and loving attitude. We see teenagers out in public years after she has taught them and the love they show her lets me know she is a special teacher.” Parents, as well as students, appreciate her. Alisha Patterson says, “Miss Autry loves each child in her classroom as if they were her own. But she cares for more than just the child... she loves on the family, maintaining a relationship with the child in her class as well as the family. She sees more than just a book lesson and teaching the children; she finds the best way to help the children progress in their education. She goes above and beyond just the classroom and has a genuine concern for each child in the class.” We are grateful for all Miss Autry is doing to make a difference through the classroom in our community! Sarah Autry has her degree from Auburn University and has been teaching for 13 years in Elmore County. She will be married to Richard Strickland this month.

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What Teens Really Think About Their Social Media Lives

Managing devices is hit or miss. Many turn off, silence, or put away their phones at key times such as when going to sleep, having meals with people, visiting family, or doing homework. But many others do not: A significant number of teens say they “hardly ever” or “never” silence or put away their devices. • What you can do. If your teen is the kind who can manage their own use, keep encouraging them. If not, set specific screen rules for around the house. Establish screen-free times (such as during homework) and areas (such as the bedroom). Have devicefree-dinner nights -- and make sure to follow the rules yourself.

What teenagers look like they’re doing and what they’re actually doing can be two totally different things -- especially when it comes to social media. A bored-looking ninth-grader could be majorly bonding with her new BFF on Snapchat. A 10th-grade gamer may complain loudly when you cut off his internet, but be secretly relieved. An awkward eighth-grader may be YouTube’s hottest star. To find out what’s really going on in teens’ social media lives, we polled more than 1,100 13- to 17-year-olds. The new study updates our 2012 study on teens and social media with surprising new findings that address many of parents’ most pressing concerns about issues such as cyberbullying, depression, and even the popularity of Facebook (spoiler alert: It’s not). Why now? Today, 89 percent of teens have their own smartphones (compared with 41 percent in 2012). They grew up right alongside Instagram and Snapchat. They do research papers on Google Classroom, find emotional support on teen forums, share poetry on Tumblr, and are more likely to text “I love you” before they’d ever say it to your face. But concerns over the negative consequences of social media have grown in tandem with its popularity among teens. Grim reports on teen suicide, addiction, cyberbullying, and eroding social skills have caused many people, from parents to teachers to the tech industry itself, to look at social media as a potential contributor -- if not the cause -- of these issues. This survey clarifies some of those concerns and draws attention to the reasons some kids are deeply affected by -- and connected to -- their digital worlds. Here are some of the key findings from the report, what they mean for you and your teen, and what you can do.

Snapchat and Instagram are where it’s at. In 2012 Facebook utterly dominated social networking use among teens. Today, only 15 percent say it’s their main site. • What you can do. Familiarize yourself with your teen’s favorite social media by reading reviews or downloading it yourself and playing around with it. Friend your teen and make time for regular check-ins when you can ask what’s new on Snapchat and Insta and share your feeds with them. Less talking, more texting. In 2012, about half of all teens still said their favorite way to communicate with friends was in person; today less than a third say so. But more than half of all teens say that social media takes them away from personal relationships and distracts them from paying attention to the people they’re with. • What you can do. This is where your guidance and rolemodeling of healthy online habits is really important. Put down your own phone (better yet, set it to Do Not Disturb) when you’re with your kids. Encourage them to be more self-aware about their device use, especially when they come away from interactions feeling like they were distracted. And if you think they need a break, prompt them to go phone-free for a while. Exposure to hate speech in on the rise, while cyberbullying is less common. Only 13 percent of teens report ever being cyberbullied. But nearly two-thirds say they often or sometimes come across racist, sexist, homophobic, or religious-based hate content in social media. • What you can do. Talk to your kid about being a force for good on the internet. Explain that it reflects poorly on them if they like, share, or otherwise support messages of hate -- even as a joke. If your kid knows the person spewing hate speech, then encourage them to block, report, or simply unfriend that person. Practice how to disagree with people respectfully and constructively. Encourage them to stand up for people who’ve been denigrated -- without getting into an ugly flame war.

They can’t stop. They won’t stop. Seventy percent of teens use social media more than once a day (compared to 34 percent in 2012). Interestingly, most teens think technology companies manipulate users to spend more time on their devices. Many of them also think that social media distracts them and and their friends. • What you can do. They know it’s getting in the way of important things, but they have a hard time regulating their own use. So, help them! Encourage them to be mindful of how they feel before, during, and after a social media session. If a certain friend or topic bugs them or brings them down, they can block that person or mute the thread. Challenge them to do a task with focused concentration and without getting distracted for longer and longer periods. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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Alabama School of Mathematics and Science

Free Tuition, Room, and Board

Visit ASMS.NET to Apply Now Alabama 9th & 10th Graders are Eligible to Apply

Alabama’s Public High School Educating Alabama’s Future Leaders since 1989

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Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted!

Come find out if ASMS is right for you by visiting our campus Saturday, Nov.10 or Dec. 1 for ASMS Day. Prospective families get a chance to see student-run classroom demonstrations and learn about a school that could change your life forever.

Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply online at www.asms.net. Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. In 2018, 80 ASMS grads earned $10 million in merit-based scholarships with an ACT composite class average of 29.8.

Register for ASMS Day at www.asms.net. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities.

Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

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technology to communicate can impair a child’s ability to read nonverbal cues. “We have to make a conscious effort to insist on face to face socializing because it would be so easy for kids to rely more and more on screen interactions,” says Dr. Michael Osit, a child psychologist and author of Generation Text: Raising Well-Adjusted Kids in the Age of Instant Everything. “As long as parents and educators continue to involve kids in face to face social groups, classroom interactions and family interactions, we can preserve their ability to function in social real time.”

In a world ever distracted by dinging devices, children who develop a wellrounded set of communication skills will stand out in the digital-focused crowd. “We have so many different ways to communicate that kids are going to need to be well-versed in as many as possible to be successful,” says Sarah L. Cook, co-author of The Parents’ Guide to Raising CEO Kids. Thanks to social media, today’s kids have the ability to access an extensive social network. But, missing from those online interactions are the subtle nonverbal cues that enrich our face to face interactions, like tone, voice inflection and facial expressions which can change the entire meaning of a statement. Some experts warn that too much reliance on Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Talk to your kids. From the time your child can talk, ask open-ended questions and listen to their answers. “What was the best part of your day? Why?” Share your thoughts, too. Not only will this practice help their speech and listening abilities, they will learn the back and forth nuances of conversation. 64

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Model appropriate social interaction. Children learn how to interact with friends, family, store employees and strangers by following your lead. “Be careful about subtle messages such as how (you) incorporate texting, emailing and social networking in interpersonal relationships,” Osit advises. For example, put your phone aside when your child is talking to you and when interacting with a cashier or restaurant server. Make eye contact and show courtesy toward the other person to help your child learn that the person standing in front of them is the greater priority at the moment.

Pass the mic. Family meetings and meals are great ways to touch base with your busy family. Cook suggests putting each member of the family in charge of a different part of the meeting. For example, one child could begin the meeting by reciting an inspiring poem or scripture while another wraps the meeting with a joke, prayer or song. Use teachable moments. Discuss social interactions that you and your kids see on TV programs, online or in real life. For example, “When you are walking in the mall and you observe kids interacting inappropriately or disrespectfully to an adult,

point it out. Ask your child what he thinks about that behavior and help him evaluate it as appropriate or inappropriate,” Osit says.

allowance or gift money, have him conduct the transaction with the cashier. Be there to support him, but allow him to take the lead.

Listen. Encourage your kids to share their feelings about peers (including those they aren’t friends with), and adults, like teachers and coaches. “Parents can shape and enhance their child’s social skills on an on-going basis,” Osit says.

Use video technology. If you travel, call home using Skype or FaceTime, or use the apps to connect with relatives. Your kids will grow more comfortable talking on a camera. You can also use birthdays, the first day of school, the holidays or just random moments to interview your kids on your video camera.

Pick up the phone. Kids can learn to order a pizza or call the dentist to schedule an appointment for themselves. “I’ve encouraged my kids that if they want to have a playdate, they can call their friend’s parent, and I’ll be there to jump on the phone to back them up,” Cook says. “When they take on more roles that parents typically handle, that allows them to feel confident talking to adults, which is often scary for kids.”

Place an order. Before the server approaches at a restaurant, help your child narrow down what to order off of the menu. Even preschoolers can politely request a glass of milk or water.

Make a purchase at the store. Next time your child wants to spend some of his

Seek interactive activities. Scouting, theater and 4-H give children many opportunities to develop presentation and leadership skills. Also, encourage your child to participate in class plays, musicals and show and tell. Like anything, the more we practice our communication skills, the better they become and the less anxious we are about managing different situations. Empower your child with the skills to communicate in a variety of situations, and watch them rise to opportunities that come their way with poise and confidence. mp Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. She is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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TheCollegeYears Preparing Teens for Life Outside the Nest

by Lee Gonet

A Guide to College Campus Visits Maybe some of you already have your heart set on attending the school of your favorite football team, or your parents insist on a local college or their alma mater, or your area of interest is limited to very few schools. For most of you, however, the decision of where to attend is a lot more challenging.

How important is visiting a college campus? Campus visits are at the top of the list when deciding on a college. Pictures online are created to sell you a product, and you wouldn’t spend thousands of dollars on a car before test driving it, would you? Campus visits allow you to meet advisors, tour buildings, ask questions, sit-in on classes, and even check-out the food available. Many colleges schedule tours during the summer or winter breaks, but I caution against visiting when classes aren’t in session because you won’t experience the college in action.

How should I prepare for my visit? Do your homework! Thoroughly examine the school’s website first. This process will give you a good idea of what information is not provided and help you form intelligent questions. Call and schedule appointments before you go. Phoning and emailing your contacts at the school will also familiarize them with you, and make you more comfortable when you do visit. Ask for a printed schedule before you make any extended drive. Register at the closest hotel possible, so you can learn about the local neighborhood and walk to eateries. Besides, this is where your parents will probably stay when they come to visit. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Who should I talk to while there? The top four are the admissions counselor, a financial-aid advisor, the student who leads your campus tour, and the academic head of your major interest. Admissions can answer most of your questions and may even provide you with financial aid information. Usually, students give campus tours (be sure it’s private and not part of a large group). Ask as many questions as possible. Tour guides are paid to convince you to attend their school; however, students are also disarmingly honest and will provide good insight if you ask the right questions. The department chair will be delighted to meet with you, as most potential students do not ask for interviews. This person can also be influential in obtaining scholarships for special cases. Ask what courses you would take, which professors you would have, and what opportunities would be available to you.

Where should I eat? The dining hall or cafeteria, of course! Some schools even have a food court. If the school has multiple areas to eat, make sure you visit all of them. How clean are they? Is a good variety of foods provided? Are there healthy options? Pizza and burgers can get old after a few weeks. Eat lunch with the undergraduates and ask a few questions, so you can get a feel for the atmosphere. Are people socializing, studying, or eating elsewhere? For dinner, inspect local hangouts. Are there many within walking distance? What are prices like in the area? Will you have to buy a complete meal plan, or can you budget for dinners out?

What are classes and teachers like? Visit different types of classrooms. Are they 66

small and intimate or large and stadiumlike? Is the technology up-to-date or old and antiquated? Sit in on classes. What types of teaching styles do you observe? Are the professors excited about their topics? Are the students engaged or texting?

What else should I do when I visit? Visit the freshmen as well as the upperclassmen dorm rooms. What are the costs? Cooking opportunities? How many to a room? Compare these conditions to those of nearby apartments. Check out the quad or other local hangouts. Bring a book to read, Frisbee to toss, or instrument to play. Engage students. Visit the campus health clinic and talk to the nurse on staff. Are you comfortable enough to go if you get sick? Investigate the library and its study areas in the early afternoon when students are most likely present. What are the condition and availability of the books? How helpful is the research librarian? Visit particular areas of interest: science labs, sports practices, swimming pool or gym, sorority/fraternity houses, club meetings, or chapel services. Talk to everyone, including custodians. Take Notes! Campus visits can provide students with more accurate pictures of the college experience. Take lots of detailed notes and create a spreadsheet with all the information you have collected, so you can compare schools. For a good checklist, go to https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/findcolleges/campus-visit-guide/campus-visitchecklist. Happy exploring! 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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Tonya Speed Dance Hosts Special Guest

DC Strutters dance team at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection hosted a guest choreographer from Oklahoma recently. Jeffry Williams created a production number that included more than 40 dancers. This year the team will be competing in musical theatre category. The dancers will travel to Chattanooga for one of the regional competitions and will compete locally for their second one.

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Johnson’s Martial Arts Wins Big in Georgia

On September 22, David Johnson and twelve of his students from Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy competed in the Southern National Karate Championships and were very successful in the weapons, forms and fighting divisions. The tournament was held at Columbus High School in Columbus, Ga. The 2018 champions are Fred Crittenden, Chase Chisholm, Elysia Lewis, Mr. Johnson, Aiyanna Rockwell, Ariyana Lucas, Byron Dixon, Mr. Johnny McCall, Aysa Dorsey, Jonathon Moore, Michael “MJ” Brown, Jr., Chanel Goldsmith, Markell Howard and Coach Briana Jackson (not pictured).

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sa wh lon “Who has three good things?” One of the kids jumps in. “Me! We got to go to the gym during indoor recess. Mom came into my class. Ice cream for dessert!” We ask this question almost every night at dinner. We could also phrase the question, “What are you grateful for?” Studies show that a gratitude practice can be life changing. Gratitude can lower blood pressure and anxiety, reduce aches and pains, and improve sleep. Feel like your kids get

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sick all the time? Gratitude has been shown to boost the immune system. People who practice gratitude tend to be more optimistic and experience more joy. And if you wish your kids would cooperate more, try a gratitude practice. People who are tuned in to gratitude tend to be more helpful and generous.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

tog for www.montgomeryparents.com

Focusing on gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring sadness, anger, grief, or struggles. Kids need to know that it’s OK to express negative feelings and challenges too. But learning to feel grateful even when things aren’t going well is powerful. As Brené Brown says, “It’s not joy the makes us grateful, it’s gratitude that makes us joyful.” To take into account this fuller range of experiences, some families use the rosethorn-bud practice. In this case, you share a positive, a challenge or disappointment, and a hope for the next day. The point is to acknowledge that we all have hard moments and good ones. If you don’t already have a family gratitude practice, it’s easy to start. Ours began simply as a way to head off a pattern of complaints and grumbles (from kids and grown ups alike). Now it’s part of our routine.

Start Your Own Gratitude Practice To start your own family gratitude practice, simply ask everyone to say three good things from their day (or a rose, thorn, and bud). Take turns sharing and listening to each other. The good things can be anything—a favorite food for dinner or knowing there’s going to be dessert, a fun activity at school, seeing a friend, getting a compliment, finding something you lost, a relative coming home from the hospital... Everyone should participate. Some days will be harder than others. If you need to, help each other think through the day. Were you really excited on the way to school? Did somebody do something nice for you? Was it your day for art? How did soccer go? Some nights, the kids ask if they can say their three good things or argue over who gets to go first. Other nights, there is a long silence in response to the question. Even on nights when our kids are slow to share three good things, part way through somebody else’s turn, we’ll hear, “Oh, I have another one.” As you get used to sharing gratitude, you find more of it.

Here are 5 other ways to practice gratitude with your family. 1) Speak Your Gratitude. If sitting down together for dinner is a challenge, look for other points in the day to speak your 69

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gratitude. Try making gratitude part of your bedtime routine. Or make it a habit to say three good things in the car on the way home at the end of the day. Take the lead to get the habit started, but once you’ve done it for a while, you may find your kids asking if they can say their three good things without prompting.

2) Keep a Family Gratitude Journal. Have you ever kept a gratitude journal? What if you kept one as a family? Create a ritual around writing in the gratitude journal. Have kids write something when they first get home from school, or ask a child to jot down family ideas while you cook dinner. The key is to make it a regular habit. Daily is ideal, but if you can’t do that, create a pattern that does work. For example, start each family meeting with a gratitude list or do a gratitude check in every Sunday night.

3) Make a Gratitude Jar. Some families write down what they are grateful for on small slips of paper and tuck them into a jar. At the end of the year, they pull them out and read through them. It’s a reminder of the many good things that happen throughout the year, the many moments when they felt thankful. Plus you get to feel good when the thing happens, when you write it down, and again when you read through them. 4) Create a Gratitude Wall. Do you have a chalkboard wall or a white board in your house? Use it to write something you are grateful for every day. Encourage all your family members to do the same. Help younger children write or let them draw a picture. Take a moment to look at the board to remind yourself of your own gratitude or that of others.

5) Text Your Thanks. You can even text

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three good things or quick moments of gratitude throughout the day with older kids. This shouldn’t replace face-to-face communication, but texting is a great tool to share positive thoughts on hectic days or when communicating is hard. Developing a gratitude practice helps build resiliency and joy, which is great for our kids and for us. And in the moment, it just feels good to find something positive when you are having a grumpy, grumbly day. mp Sara Barry is a writer from Massachusetts. She sporadically keeps a gratitude journal and regularly shares three good things with her kids.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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The Magnificent Power of Kindness Because they are small and young, our children move in a world that necessarily observes their vulnerability. Looking for opportunities to highlight their strengths is an important part of building kids’ self-confidence. One of their most powerful abilities is the practice of kindness. A child’s world is especially rich with pure moments that inspire them to express generosity, to demonstrate empathy, and to perform simple good deeds. Even though kids are served up shorter menus, smaller seating, and limited access to most avenues that adults navigate daily, their ability to affect great change is still firmly within their grasp. The following titles illustrate an antidote to feeling small and helpless, and celebrate the enormous power of kindness.

The Breaking News

by Sarah Lynne Reul (Roaring Brook Press / MacKids) When sad news arrives in their community, a young sister and brother have a front row seat to the emotional changes in their parents, teachers and their likewise bewildered classmates. While they may be too young to understand the news, the anxiety and sadness they see in those around them is real. The children’s first big efforts to cheer up their parents miss the mark. But when they discover smaller, subtler ways to express good feelings, the siblings experience their power to inspire recovery. Told from a child’s perspective, The Breaking News is a powerful exploration of those moments when tragic news touches a household, a community, or the world. With real examples rising from these pages, young readers will find the small ways they are empowered to support and heal those around them through their small acts of kindness.

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Great Big Things

by Kate Hoefler, Illustrated by Noah Klocek (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Clutching a crumb to its chest, a small field mouse sets out on a mission into the wider world. While the destination is unclear to the reader, the path is uncompromising and long. Moving through settings that alternate between lush wilderness and desolate landscapes, the mouse is undaunted, committed to the journey’s end. Set against Klocek’s majestic renderings of towering mountains, bottomless seas, and vast purpling skies, the scope of a tiny creature’s mission to gift another is amplified to mythic proportions. Likewise amplified are many kindnesses received in our lives. While the effort may seem small to the giver, a kind gift’s effect on the receiver can be a great big thing.

Be Kind

by Zietlow Miller, Illustrated by Jen Hill (Roaring Brook Press / Macmillan) When a child witnesses a classmate spill purple paint on her clothes, they fight the instinct to laugh when they see her embarrassment. This moment of empathy spurs the child’s personal exploration of how they can help. Will an overture of sympathy be welcome? Or, will it amplify an event the child wants to forget? Should they spill paint on themselves in an act of solidarity? The desire to be kind is present, but the expression of it can sometimes be complex. Be Kind is especially remarkable for its gentle suggestions of specific opportunities for kids to make a positive difference in their world, every day. Small vignettes wordlessly illustrate moments that kindness can change and small actions that can produce big effects. This title moves beyond the standard encouragement toward kindness, and inspires a sincere and heightened awareness for diverse moments that can be beautifully served with thoughtful actions.

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Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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the solar system and shows him some unearthly children who were left off his list. December 3-17. Season of Light--This traditional Christmas offering is narrated by NPR’s Noah Adams. This show covers the various celebrations around the world which occur on or around the Winter Solstice. Extensive time devoted to the traditional Christmas story. December 4-18. Cost is $6.50 for ages 5 and above.

Eastdale Mall - Pet Photos with Santa

The Living Christmas Tree

The Longest Night

“The Sound of Music” at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival

December 7 - 9 @ First Baptist Church 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL Come joins us for the “Living Christmas Tree”. Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage.

December 21 @ Taylor Road Baptist Church 1685 Taylor Road 7 p.m. A service of remembrance and hope for those grieving the loss of loved ones.

Christmas on the Coosa

Montgomery

ad on page 11

December 2 @ Saint James UMC Family Life Center 9045 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 6-8 pm with Guest Speaker Janeese Spencer. Register at sjlife.com/ministries/women. Childcare available by reservation. (334) 277.3037

ad on page 9

(334) 241.4799 montgomery.troy.edu/planetarium

ad on page 22

(334 271.3363

(334) 241.5156 montgomeryfbc.org

ad on page 83

December 8 @ Wetumpka 10 A.M. - 8 P.M. Christmas extravaganza with arts & crafts, parade, food, classic car show,entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. (334)567.1313 or (334)567.4811 wetumpkachamber.com

Christmas Storybook Musical ad on page 79

December 9 @ Frazer UMC Wesley Hall 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 4 and 6:30 p.m. Based on the beloved Jesus Storybook Bible, a timeless true tale of the Prince of Heaven who came to save the world--told through music, dance, puppets and drama...a joyful holiday event for the whole family. (334) 272.8622 www.frazer.church

Season of Light and The Alien Who Stole Christmas ad on page 69

December 1 - 18 @ W.A. Gayle Planetarium 1010 Forrest Avenue Montgomery, AL The Alien Who Stole Christmas--Ride along with Santa as he is abducted by a flying saucer on Christmas Eve. The UFO takes Santa on a tour of Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Alabama Dance Theater “Mistletoe”

November 3 @ The Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL The Alabama Dance Theatre will perform their holiday production of “MISTLETOE” November 3, 2:30 at The Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. It will feature “Favorite Dances of Christmas” an audience favorite. (334) 625.2590 alabamadancetheatre.com

Eastdale Mall - Santa’s Magical Arrival on Ice

November 9 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 5p.m. - 7 p.m. Santa Claus will arrive in his magical sleigh during a spectacular ice show at the Eastdale Mall Ice Palace. Skaters will perform whimsical vignettes that will delight children of all ages. (334) 277.7380 david.hagood@aronov.com eastdale-mall.com

Eastdale Mall - Photos with Santa

November 9 -December 24 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays, 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. (334) 277.7380 david.hagood@aronov.com eastdale-mall.com

November 9 - December 24 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5-9 p.m. in December, furry friends are invited to have their photo taken with Santa! (334) 277.7380 david.hagood@aronov.com eastdale-mall.com

November 15 -December 30 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL After causing disorder at the abbey, the young nun Maria is sent off to be governess to Captain Von Trapp’s seven children. Maria enchants the entire family by teaching the children to sing and the Captain to love again. asf.net

The Shoppes at EastChase Lights Up Christmas Parade + Fireworks Show

November 17 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 6 – 8 PM | Kick of the holiday season with The Shoppes at EastChase for our annual Lights Up! features a festive community parade, live music, fireworks, Santa and even a chance of snow! (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

The Shoppes at EastChase Santa’s Mailbox

November 23 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL Drop your holiday wish list in Santa’s Mailbox in front of his home near Blackfinn Ameripub. No postage required, just remember to include a return address! (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

The Shoppes at EastChase #SantaAtEastChase

November 23 – December 24 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL Visit Santa in his brand-new Whimsical Wonderland located in front of Blackfinn Ameripub and get a professional photo. For a list of package prices, call and make an appointment. (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

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12th Annual Light the World: Interfaith Christmas Nativity Exhibit

November 28 -December 2 @ Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 3460 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 1:00-8:00 p.m. Help your family keep the true meaning of Christmas in your heart from the start by attending this Community Celebration of the Birth of Jesus Christ. This spectacular event features nativities from around the world and special music by local performers. This magnificent display is sure to warm the hearts of young and old alike. 3460 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery. Open to all. FREE Admission. MontgomeryNativity.com

Annual Holiday Light Festival The Montgomery Zoo

November 28 -December 2, December 6-9, 13-25 @ Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 5:30- 9:30 p.m. each night. Thousands of Holiday Lights illuminate The Montgomery Zoo in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. See the Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland sparkling with thousands of festive lights and decorations. Stroll the many pathways or enjoy a brisk ride on the Santaland Express train ride. Visit with Santa nightly; enjoy live entertainment, food, gifts and more. (334) 240.4900

montgomeryzoo.com

Candlelight Harpischord Chamber Concert

November 29 @ Christchurch 8800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL 6:30 p.m. You are invited to Christchurch’s free concert of sacred and secular music. The 45-minute performance will feature instrumental and vocal pieces performed by the church’s chancel choir and soloists from the church as well as outside professionals. The free concert in the church’s sanctuary will begin at 6 p.m. It will be followed by a champagne and dessert reception in the parish hall. Reception tickets, which are $25 each, will be available by calling (334) 387.0566, ext. 203. (334) 387.0566 christchurchxp.net

Huntingdon Offers Annual Christmas Celebration

November 29 @ Huntingdon College College Street Montgomery, AL Share some holiday cheer at Huntingdon College’s annual Community Christmas Celebration November 30th, on the Huntingdon Campus. The celebration includes: 6:30 p.m., the Arrival of Saint Nicholas, in front of Flowers Hall; 6:45 p.m., Tree-lighting Ceremony and caroling, in front of Flowers Hall; and 7:00 p.m., A Service of Lessons and Carols, combining Biblical readings by members of the Huntingdon community interspersed with music from the College’s Concert Choir; Ligon Chapel, Flower’s Hall. (334) 833.4515 huntingdon.edu

MPAC Holiday Show: Chris Tomlin November 30 @ Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa St Montgomery, AL 7 p.m., Christmas Songs of Worship (334) 481.5100 mpaconline.org

The Shoppes at EastChase Christmas Tree Decorating Workshop November 30 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 6 – 8 PM. Join Jay Padgett, Visual Designer for

Dillard’s, at The Shoppes at EastChase for a fun workshop just in time to get your Christmas Tree up and going! Jay will help tailor your tree to suit your style, considering budget, theme, and colors and even insight on what you should re-use and what you should invest in this holiday season. Tickets include a Southern Living ornament of your choice, light hors d’ouevres and wine.

be sent to those honored or to the family of those memorialized.

(334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

(334) 481.5100 mpaconline.org

The Shoppes at EastChase Holiday Gift Wrapping

November 30- December 24 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL Now through Christmas Eve | Save time and have our friends at the Montgomery Humane Society wrap your gifts this holiday season. Prices vary based on the packages size and all proceeds benefit the Montgomery Humane Society. Located next to Pet Smart in EastChase Plaza. (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

Frazer Memorial UMC Women’s Christmas Brunch

December 1 @ Wesley Hall 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 9-11 A.M. Fellowship Hall. Women and girls of all ages are invited to our annual Women’s Christmas Brunch featuring tables beautifully decorated by the ladies of the church and a special message entitled “Christmas Memories - Celebrating Jesus’ Birth Through the Generations” from Judy Harrison. Tickets are $10 in the Atrium Nov. 4 or 11. (334) 495.6391 ktmixon315@aol.com frazerumc.org

Holiday Open House @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

(334) 293.6940 jackson.org

MPAC: Michael W. Smith

December 6 @ Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa St Montgomery, AL 7:30 P.M. Please visit our website for ticket pricing.

The Shoppes at EastChase Holiday Mailbox Decor Workshop

December 6 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 6-8 P.M. Join us for a relaxed evening at The Shoppes at EastChase where you will learn how to make a beautiful mailbox decoration. The talented Crystal Strickland from Southern Posies will help create your very own holiday masterpiece! Tickets include garland, ribbon, light hors d’ouevres and wine. (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

Cloverdale Playhouse presents “Private Lives”

December 6-16 @ Cloverdale Playhouse 960 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL Noel Coward is a playwright famous for using comedy and escapism in the face of dark and difficult times. His audiences retreated into his plays during the World Wars, for there they could find glamour and chilled martinis and pithy witticism rather than air raids and the Wall Street Crash. His characters, while decadent and scathingly funny, live in a fantasy-land limbo, disguising their deep unhappiness with champagne and nonsense. “What happens when the champagne runs out?” (334) 262.1530 boxoffice@cloverdaleplayhouse.org cloverdaleplayhouse.org

December 1 @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 1 to 4 p.m.; The festivities for the event include musical performances by local school choirs and performance groups, holiday art projects, cookies and lemonade, and horse and carriage rides in the park.

2018 Capital City Governors Tree Lighting

(334) 625.4333 mmfa.org

(334) 242.7150 montgomeryal.gov

Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis

December 1 Montgomery, AL 5k Run or Walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation Also 1 mile fun run (chasing an Elf) for under 8’s and 1-mile walk for those of us who want to support the Arthritis Foundation. (334) 219.8707 jbrMontgomery.kintera.org

Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tour Open House

December 3, 10 and 17 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 5:30 -7:30 P.M. The 1907 Governor’s Mansion will be aglow with lights and filled with the spirit of the season. (334) 834.3022

21st Annual Lights of Love

December 6 @ Jackson Hospital 1725 Pine St Montgomery, AL 6 p.m. For a contribution of $15 or more to the Jackson Hospital Foundation, a light will be placed on the Lights of Love tree inside of Jackson Hospital in front lobby in honor, or in memory, of someone special to you. For contributions of $100 or more Moravian stars will be placed on the tree. For contributions of $500 or more a decorative angel will be placed on the tree. Christian music will be presented. An invitation to the ceremony will

December 7 @ Capital Montgomery, AL 5:30 p.m. Come enjoy the National Guard Band 30 minutes prior to tree lighting. - Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol.

The Montgomery Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

December 7 - 9 @ The Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery St Montgomery, AL Montgomery’s Favorite Holiday Tradition for over 43 years presented by The Montgomery Ballet. The world’s most famous Christmas ballet. A Montgomery tradition since 1976, this year’s production promises to delight all ages with brilliant dancing, beautiful scenery, and colorful costumes. All reserved seats. Tickets are $20 to $30 for adults. We offer military, senior and student discounts. Prices are dependent on convenience and/or handling fees. (334) 409.0522

montgomeryballet.org

Holiday Dinner Cruise

December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22 @ Downtown Montgomery, AL Cruise the Alabama River with Santa on the Harriott II Riverboat, Downtown Riverwalk. montgomeryal.gov

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Christmas Open House

December 8 919 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 10 A.M. until 3 P.M. Come join us, December 9, as we celebrate Christmas with our Christmas Open House. (334) 264.4222 thefitzgeraldmuseum.org

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The Shoppes at EastChase Brunch with Santa

December 8 and 15 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Parents and their children can enjoy a full brunch and a visit with Santa at Bonefish Grill with proceeds benefiting Child Protect, A Children’s Advocacy Center. Tickets are $20 per parent, $10 per child and include a full brunch, activities and more! (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

Aldersgate UMC: “Almost There”

December 9 6610 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 10:30 a.m. The Christmas Song Musical by the Aldersgate Chancel Choir, Orchestra and Drama Team Featuring a Live Nativity with the Actors and Animals (camel, donkeys, alpaca and sheep) on the front lawn of the Church after the worship service. (334) 272.6152 aldersgateumc.org

Beacon of Hope Church of God Presents Hee Haw

December 9 @ 1045 Coliseum Blvd. A Kornfield Kounty Christmas Featuring Lu Lu Roman and Beacon of Hope Choir. Jokes, songs and korney fun. Performances at 10:30 am and 6 pm. Call 274-0932 for more info.

The Shoppes at EastChase Super Heroes and Santa

December 11 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 6-7 P.M. The Shoppes is giving your favorite super hero an action packed night out with the superstar of Christmas himself! Experience includes a superherotheme cookie decorating, one-on-one visits with Santa and more! Proceeds benefit Family Sunshine Center.

Eastdale Mall - Breakfast with Santa

December 15 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Santa always starts his day off with a good breakfast. Reservations required. (334) 277.7380 david.hagood@aronov.com eastdale-mall.com

Holiday Pops Concert

December 18 @ Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Join the MSO for an evening of everyone’s seasonal favorites.

(334) 241.9567 troy.edu/davistheatre

The Shoppes at EastChase Holiday Bedtime Stories

Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church Annual Christmas Production

December 18 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 6 – 7:30 p.m., The little ones can wear their pajamas and enjoy a night they won’t soon forget! Santa Claus will be reading favorite Christmas stories at the Holiday Pop Up Shoppe, located next to Francesca’s at The Shoppes at EastChase. Attendees will enjoy Christmas songs, milk and cookies, and more! (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

The Montgomery Chorale Holiday Performances December 20 @ Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Ave Montgomery, AL 7 p.m., Messiah Sing Along (334) 265.3737

montgomerychorale.org

The Shoppes at EastChase American Girl Tea Party with Santa

MPAC: Harry Connick Jr.

(334) 481.5100 mpaconline.org

(334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

The Shoppes at EastChase Sensory Santa Experience

Eastdale Mall - Cookies and Crafts with Santa

December 13 @ Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa St Montgomery, AL 7:30 P.M. Please visit our website for ticket pricing.

December 13 and 14 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 7 p.m. | The Shoppes at EastChase is making sure every child has time with Santa by providing a Sensory Santa experience for those families with special needs children. Visit theshoppesateastchase.com to make an appointment. (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

2018 Capital City Christmas Parade

December 14 6 p.m. The City of Montgomery would like to invite you to the Christmas Parade. Depart from Cramton Bowl and Parade downtown from Capitol Steps to the Court Street Fountain. A limited number of parade entries will be accepted. (334) 625.2118

montgomeryal.gov

Eastdale Mall - WLWI Giveaway

December 15 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. WLWI and Eastdale Mall are giving you the chance to win a $2,500 Shopping Spree! (334) 277.7359 david.hagood@aronov.com eastdale-mall.com

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

TBA @ Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL Annual Glenn Miller Holiday Concert. This year’s performance is free to the public. Will be accepting canned food donations for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. This performance will be held at the Davis Theatre. Featuring The United States Air force Band, Airmen of Note, premier jazz ensemble, will perform holiday and Glenn Miller favorites. The Airmen of Note ensemble was created in 1950 to carry on the style and tradition of the Glenn Miller Army Air Forces Dance Band.

(334) 240.4004

December 20 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 2 PM. Enjoy a tea party with Santa and your favorite American Girl Doll on Thursday, December 20 at The Shoppes at EastChase! For more information, visit theshoppesateastchase.com.

(334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

Glenn Miller Holiday Concert featuring Airmen of Note

December 22 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. Come join Santa and his elves to create a cute Christmas craft! Enjoy cookies. Requires reservations and space is limited.

(334) 277.7380 david.hagood@aronov.com eastdale-mall.com

Eastdale Mall - Rockin’ NOON Year’s Eve Celebration

December 31 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL Eastdale Mall is excited to host it’s 4th annual Rockin’ NOON Year’s Eve Celebration on December 31st from 10 am to 1 pm. Please check our website for more details. (334) 277.7380 david.hagood@aronov.com eastdale-mall.com

2018 Capital City Tree Lighting TBA @ City Hall Montgomery, AL 5:30 – Located in front of City Hall (334) 625.2118 montgomeryal.gov

TBA @ Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 East Washington St. Montgomery, AL Time to be announced. Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church, 1550 East Washington St., will host its Annual Christmas Production, by the Youth Dept. Join them as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. (334) 462.3048

Old Alabama Town Holiday Open House 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL Join Old Alabama Town in December to celebrate the holiday season. Our house museums will be authentically decorated for the holidays. Early December. (334) 240.4500

oldalabamatown.com

The Shoppes at EastChase Pet Photos with Santa

7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL Saturdays + Sundays in December | Don’t forget your four-legged friends! Pets love Santa, too! Pet photos are available on Saturdays and Sundays in December and $5 for every pet photo will be donated to the Montgomery Humane Society. (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

The Shoppes at EastChase Holiday Performances

7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL Be entertained with holiday-themed performances by community organizations every weekend in December. For a detailed list of performance dates and times, visit theshoppesateastchase.com.

(334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

Millbrook Christmas Music and Tree Lighting

November 29 @ Millbrook Village Green Stage 6:00 p.m. on the Village Green. There will be caroling, a live Nativity, refreshments for sale, the Tree Lighting and the Christmas Lights and Music show. (334) 285.6428 cityofmillbrook.org

Millbrook Spirit of Christmas Parade, “A Musical Millbrook Christmas”

December 1 @ Sports Complex behind Smokehouse Bar-B-Q and will end at the intersection at City Hall Parade is at 2 p.m. Millbrook’s Annual Christmas Parade will begin at the Sports Complex behind Smokehouse Bar-B-Q and will end at the intersection at City Hall. Activities will be from 1:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Vendors will be set up at Village Green Park; there will be arts, crafts, and food. This is one of the great things about living in a small community

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- family fun, not too crowded and loads of excitement for everyone. No admission fee. (334) 285.7232 cityofmillbrook.org

Prattville Words & Music

November 1 7-9 P.M. Local songwriters Stephen Bray, Jason Givens, and Rachael Wilson will share their songs and the stories behind them on November 1 at the Way Off Broadway Theatre (203 West 4th Street). This event is from 7 pm – 9 pm and admission is $5. Concessions will be sold at the event. (334) 595-0854

prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville Artist’s Market

November 17 @ Pville Creative Arts Center and Gallery 342 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 10 am – 2 pm. Local artists will gather to sell their work at the Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery from 10 am – 2pm on the third Saturday of September, October, and November. Enjoy music and hands-on art projects while you shop for oneof-a-kind pieces for your collection or for those on your gift list! (334) 595.0854

facebook.com/prattaugaartguild

City of Prattville Happy Birthday, Autauga County!

November 17 Creek Walk (behind City Hall) Prattville, AL 6-8 P.M. Cake, concert, and a celebration. On November 17 we will celebrate the 200th birthday of Autauga County on the Creekwalk behind City Hall with a free concert by OTI and cake (while supplies last) as well as a photo booth and other birthday fun. (334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

Prattauga Art Guild Holiday Open House

November 18 @ Pville Creative Arts Center and Gallery 342 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL The Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery will be decorated for the holiday season and open for shopping. Stop by for light refreshments and find unique items for those special people on your Christmas shopping list! (334) 595.0854

artguild.prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

November 27 @ Grassy area near the Fountain at Court and Third Streets. The annual Christmas Tree Lighting will be held in the grassy area near the Fountain at Court and Third Streets. Festivities will begin at 5:30 pm, we will flip the switch to turn on the lights on the Christmas tree at 7 pm and Santa will arrive. This event is FREE and open to the public. (334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville’s Annual Christmas Parade

November 30 @ Autauga County Courthouse The parade will start at 7pm at the Autauga County Courthouse at 4th and Court Streets. It will follow Main Street, turn right on Northington, then left on Doster Road to Stanley Jensen Stadium. (334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

Christmas at East Memorial

December 2 @ East Memorial Baptist Church 1320 Old Ridge Road Prattville, AL

4 P.M. and 7 P.M. Our Celebration Choir, Orchestra, and Drama Team will present “The Songs of Christmas,” an East Memorial Christmas Night of Favorites. The seating is dessert-theater style and costs $2.00 to reserve your seat. (334) 365.7500

eastmemorial.org

Way Off Broadway Theatre’s The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

December 6-16 Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson, directed by Joey Fine, by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. The show will open on Thursday, December 6, at 7:30 pm and will run Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm through December 16 at the Way Off Broadway Theatre (203 West 4th Street, Prattville). Tickets are $10 in advance and can be purchased at cc.prattvilleal. gov or by calling or visiting the Special (334) 595.0854

wobt.prattvilleal.gov

Annual Christmas Concert by Prattville Community Chorus and Prattville Pops

December 7 @ Doster Community Center 424 South Northington Street Prattville, AL On December 7 enjoy a Christmas Concert featuring the Community Chorus and the Prattville Pops. This annual concert will delight the entire family with Christmas songs and sing-a-longs. The concert will be held at Doster Community Center on South Northington in Prattville. 334-595-0854 pops.prattvilleal.gov

The Prattville Ballet’s “The Grinch Ballet”

December 8 @ Jeff State Performing Arts Theatre 7 p.m. Performed by students of C.J.’s Dance Factory and members of the Prattville Ballet at Jeff State Performing Arts Theatre in Clanton on Saturday, December 8th at 7:00 p.m. Five year old Addie Paulene landed the role of Cindy Lou Who, the little two year old tot that the Grinch ran into while he was on his mission to destroy Christmas! The role of Max, is the ever-loyal best friend to the grumpy Grinch, will be danced by 6 year old Paislee Smith. Creating a Santa suit and sleigh with his own dog Max as a “reindeer”, the Grinch travels to Whoville and steals all of the Whos’ Christmas gifts. He is almost discovered by Cindy Lou, but lies to her in order to escape. The Grinch then has a magical change of heart, a Christmas must see! (334) 467.8603

City of Prattville Holiday Art Workshops

December 8 @ Pville Creative Arts Center and Gallery 342 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 10 am – 11:30 pm, 1 pm – 2:30 pm. On December 8, the Prattauga Art Guild will host FREE Holiday Art Workshops for children ages 5 to 12 at the Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery. The first will be from 10-11:30 am, and the second will be held from 1-2:30 pm. Children will create a fun holiday project to take home or give as a gift. Limited space is available for these workshops and reservations are required. (334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville A Main Street Christmas December 11 @ Downtown Prattville 5 – 7:30 pm. Enjoy the lights and decorations, visit with Santa, and have fun while you shop Downtown Prattville for gifts for all the special people on your Christmas list. There will be caroling, children’s projects, hot chocolate, and more. Participate in the Chamber of Commerce Cash Mob for prizes when you shop downtown. Bring your family and

friends and stroll through the lights of downtown and enjoy the dancing lights on the spillway and the 30’ Christmas Tree. (334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

Centerpoint Fellowship Church Christmas Eve services

December 24 @ Prattville Christian Academy 322 Old Farm Lane North Prattville, AL Monday, December 24 Candlelight services at 3:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. centeringlives.com

Wetumpka Charis Crafters 18th Annual Christmas Show “Home for the Holidays” and Tasting Fair

November 8-10 @ Wetumpka Civic Center 410 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL November 8th from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Friday, November 9th from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and November 10th from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Annual show features baked goods, canned goods and crafts from more than 20 artisans. Door prizes every hour. Tickets available at the door. Come taste foods prepared by members from our recipe cookbooks which will also be on sale. Sheila Green (334) 567.3594 or Patricia McCullers (334) 567.5785

Wetumpka Depot presents: “Candy Cane Cabaret”

November 15-16 @ Wetumpka Depot 300 S Main Street Wetumpka, AL Join the Depot Players for songs and readings from the season. All ticket sales benefit the Depot’s new special needs outreach, the Penguin Project. Please call or visit our website for ticket information and pricing. (334) 868.1440 kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com wetumpkadepot.com

Wetumpka Depot presents: “Junie B. Jones Jingle Bells and Batman Smells

November 29-December 1 @ Wetumpka Depot 300 S Main Street Wetumpka, AL Junie B. Jones, First-Grader, is super excited about the upcoming Holiday Sing-Along and Secret Santa gift exchange at her school. Too bad tattletale May keeps ruining all of Junie B’s fun. So when Junie B. draws May’s name for Secret Santa, she comes up with the perfect plan to teach her nemesis a lesson! But will the Christmas spirit of peace and goodwill interfere before she can give you-know-who what she deserves? A hilarious and endearing tale based on the best-selling book series by Barbara Park. Please call or visit our website for ticket information and pricing. (334) 868.1440 kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com wetumpkadepot.com

City of Wetumpka Wetumpka Tree Lighting

December 4 @ Gold Star Park 6 p.m. Photos with Santa at 5 p.m. and hot cocoa. (334) 567.5147 cityofwetumpka.com

City of Wetumpka Christmas Decoration Contest

December 6 6:00 p.m. Businesses and residential. There will be judging to those who have submitted applications. Prizes will be awarded. (334) 567.5147 cityofwetumpka.com

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Wetumpka Depot presents: “A Greater Tuna Christmas”

December 11, 13-16 @ Wetumpka Depot 300 S Main Street Wetumpka, AL In this hilarious sequel to Greater Tuna, it’s Christmas in the third-smallest town in Texas. Radio station news personalities Thurston Wheelis and Arles Struvie report on various Yuletide activities, including the hot competition in the annual lawn-display contest. In other news, voracious Joe Bob Lipsey’s production of A Christmas Carol is jeopardized by unpaid electric bills. Many colorful Tuna denizens, some you will recognize from Greater Tuna and some appearing here for the first time, join in the holiday fun. A Tuna Christmas is a total delight for all seasons performed by two actors playing all 25 roles! Please call or visit our website for ticket information and pricing. (334) 868.1440 kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com wetumpkadepot.com

Wetumpka Nativity and Luminary Open House December 14 @ Downtown Wetumpka 6 p.m. (334) 567.5147 cityofwetumpka.com

Centerpoint Fellowship Church Christmas Eve services December 24 9301 US Highway 231 Wetumpka, AL Candlelight service at 4:30 p.m. centeringlives.com

Birmingham and North Christmas Village Festival

November 1 - 4 @ Jefferson Convention Complex 2100 Richard Arrington Blvd. Birmingham, AL Wednesday-Saturday 10:00am- 8:00pm; Sunday, noon until 5:00pm. The largest indoor arts, crafts, and gifts show in the south, this show draws exhibitors from over 30 states with products like clothing, jewelry, food, decorations and much, much more. christmasvillagefestival.com

Christmas Craft Show

November 9 - 10 @ Gardendale Civic Center 857 Main St. Gardendale, AL Gardendale Civic Center hosts the Christmas Craft Show with over 60 booths. Only handmade, hand crafted items. Pictures with Santa too! (205) 683.0354 northartscouncil.webs.com

McWane Science Center Magic of Model Trains

November 17 – January 6 @ McWane Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL Back for its 11th year in a row, the Magic of Model Trains will return to spread some holiday cheer and amaze guests. Discover trains of every shape and size inside this popular exhibit of train displays. Every set in the exhibit is designed to scale with the size of the trains. The meticulous detail of the scenery includes covered bridges, downtown storefronts and, of course, several train stations that will keep your family entertained for hours. Sponsored by Royal Cup (205) 714.8300 mcwane.org

Alabama Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”

December 14 - 16, 21 - 23 - 23 2726 1st Avenue South Birmingham, AL Alabama Ballet is proud to present George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® as one of only eight comMontgomery Parents I November 2018

panies in the world licensed by The Balanchine Trust to perform this holiday masterpiece. Tchaikovsky’s beloved melodies transport the young and young at heart to a magical world where mischievous mice besiege a battalion of toy soldiers, and an onstage blizzard leads to an enchanted Land of Sweets. (205) 322.4300 alabamaballet.org

McWane Science Center Jingle Bell Breakfast

TBA @ McWane Science Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL Bring your little elves for a Merry Morning at McWane! Head to the North Pole where you will enjoy a hot holiday breakfast, make festive crafts, and have a very special visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! When breakfast is over, take a ride down the slide and head to the IMAX Dome for a private showing of Santa vs. the Snowman. Ticket includes same day admission. Make your reservation today for this family favorite holiday event. (205) 714.8300

mcwane.org

McWane Science Polar Express P.J. Party

TBA @ McWane Science Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL Join us for a journey beyond your imagination aboard the Polar Express! Slip on your PJs and visit with Santa over a cup of hot cocoa and cookies. Then it’s time to “believe” as you experience Polar Express on the IMAX Dome. A special keepsake will be given to all children 12 and under who wear their pajamas. (205) 714.8300

mcwane.org

North Pole Express Train Rides

November 16 - 28, 23 - 25, December 1 - 2, 7 - 9 and 14 - 15 @ Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Please visit our website www.hodrrm.org for times. “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your journey begins. Through the dark night, the magical train speeds to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves board the train to visit with everyone, so be sure to bring your camera! You’ll enjoy chocolate milk and cookies and sing Christmas carols along with the live musician, Mr. Jim. Listen to a special Christmas story and receive a Christmas gift. hodrrm.org

Santa Claus Special Train Ride

December 1, 8 and 15 @ The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Santa rides the train with you! Tell him what you would like for Christmas as he poses for photos. Each child will receive a Christmas gift! 1(800)943.4490

Eufaula Christmas Tour of Homes

December 1 Eufaula, AL Stroll through history and witness the magnificence of Eufaula’s finest homes all aglow in holiday splendor. Enjoy a seated luncheon or an elegant dinner at the grand historical Shorter Mansion. eufaulapilgrimage.com

The Nutcracker

December 6-9 @ Dothan Civic Center Dothan, AL Southeast Alabama Dance Company presents its annual performance of this holiday classic. Watch as snowflakes dance, flowers waltz, dolls come to life and the Nutcracker turns into a charming prince. Admission charged. (334) 702.7139

hodrrm.org

Eclectic Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas

December 1 - 8 1733 Claud Road Eclectic, AL Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. Time slots are scheduled in 15 minute increments. If registering through the website, your reservation will be confirmed as soon as possible. Admission is free, and donations are accepted and appreciated to help with expenses. (334) 578.4846 reservations@anelecticministry.org www.aneclecticministry.org

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Victorian Christmas

December 9 @ Landmark Park Dothan, AL 1:00-4:00p.m., Sample turn-of-the-century desserts, sip hot chocolate or mulled cider and try your hand at making traditional Christmas decorations. Free. (334) 794.3452 landmarkparkdothan.com

Just for Kids YMCA Camp Chandler Holiday Camps

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1(800) 943.4490

Eufaula/Dothan

December 20 - 22 1240 Jordan Dam Road Wetumpka, AL Arriving on Dec 20th at 4-5 p.m. and departing Dec. 22nd at 4-5 p.m. This adventure is for old and new campers (ages 5-14), old and new staff, friends and relatives. Fee: $115 (members) and $130 (nonmembers), which includes t-shirt and camp store. (334) 229.0031

YMCA Goodtimes Holiday Childcare

2325 Mill Ridge Drive Montgomery, AL Program will run everyday except Thanksgiving Day or the day after. 7:00 a.m. thru 6 p.m. Cost per day; members $24 and non-members $29 (334) 279.8666

Lake Martin/Alex City Alexander City Holiday Open House

November 11 Alexander City, AL 1-4 P.M. Mark your calendars now and make plans to visit many of Alexander City’s local retailers during our Annual Holiday Open House. This local tradition is the perfect opportunity to get a jump on your holiday shopping! Complete list of participants coming soon! (256) 329.9227 www.alexandercity.org

Christmas at Crossroads

November 27 - 29 @ Russell Crossroads Lake Martin, AL On Friday, the weekend kicks off at the Town Green with Santa’s arrival by horse-drawn carriage at 11 am. Visit with the jolly old fellow until 2 pm as The Herb Trotman Band plays your holiday favorites. Kids are invited to make and decorate bird feeders and Christmas ornaments. Or, grab the family and relax on a complimentary carriage ride from 11 am to 2 pm. If your gift list is long, the Holiday Art Bazaar at The Stables from 9 am to 5 pm is the

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place to be. You’ll find everything from handmade pottery and one-of-a-kind jewelry to paintings, photographs, bath salts, candy and much more. And, for added holiday cheer, cocktails and beverages will be available for purchase. On Saturday, join Mrs. Claus for pancakes and stories from 8 am – 10 am at The Stables! Old Saint Nick had to hurry back to the North Pole to get busy making toys for all the girls and boys. russellcrossroads.com

Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree Christmas Parade

December 3 @ Downtown Alexander City Alexander City, AL 6 p.m., One of East Alabama’s largest parades featuring elaborate floats, dancing groups, marching bands, horse-riding clubs and Santa Claus highlight. (256) 329.9227 www.alexandercity.org

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Out of State/Georgia Stone Mountain Christmas

November 10 - January 6 @ Stone Mountain Park 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA There is nothing like the Christmas season that magically transforms Stone Mountain Park into a land of enchantment. Within the glow of more than two million twinkling lights, you can watch live entertainment, engage in fun attractions and reconnect with friends and family during this special time of year. Make a Stone Mountain Christmas a part of your holiday tradition. Events include Wonderland Walkway, Snow Angel Castle, Holly Jolly Cabaret, The Polar Express 4D Experience, Snow Angel Fireworks and Snowfall Celebration, Sleigh Ride, Simply Christmas, Christmas Parade, Visit with Santa Claus, storytelling and live shows, great food and holiday shopping! (800) 401.2407 stonemountainpark.com

Magical Nights of Lights

November 16 – January 2 @ Lake Lanier 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA Nightly 5:00-10:00pm. Rekindle an old tradition or create a new one at Lake Lanier Islands Resort’s Magical Nights of Lights holiday celebration. A seven-mile drive through tour of animated, festive, holiday light displays. At the end of your tour, the Holiday Village awaits you with carnival rides and games, pony rides and numerous holiday treats. Warm up with a hot cup of cocoa or step inside Santa’s Workshop for some holiday shopping and a visit with Santa. And nothing gets you in the holiday spirit like a visit to Legacy Lodge & Conference Center for a delectable Magical Nights of Lights dinner buffet, or stay the night so the kids can enjoy the time honored tradition of having Breakfast with Santa. lakelanierislands.com

Annual Fantasy In Lights

November 16- January 5 @ Callaway Gardens Pine Mountain, GA The most spectacular holiday light and sound show in the south begins November 16- Jan. 5! With more than a dozen larger-than-life lighted scenes, Fantasy In Lights remains unique in that its scenes are custom-designed especially for Callaway Gardens–to celebrate not only the joy of the season but the wonder of nature in this idyllic setting. Drive your car or ride the Jolly Trolley to experience scenes like March of the Toy Soldiers and Snowflake Valley. At Robin Lake Beach,

enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Nativity’, light and sound shows enticing passersby to stop, reflect and enjoy. Sunday, November 10, the annual March of Dimes Walk – one night each year is reserved for walkers only to hike the winter wonderland of Fantasy In Lights. No vehicles allowed! (844) 512.3826 callawaygardens.com

Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain

November 17 – February 24 @ Stone Mountain Park 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA Snow Mountain is Atlanta’s first snow park! The 2017/2018 season opens November 18– February 25. Atlanta’s Stone Mountain Park transforms into a winter wonderland with Snow Mountain. Bundle your family up and get ready for snow tubing, snowballs, snowmen and snow angels. Based at Stone Mountain Park’s famous Laser Lawn, Snow Mountain keeps your entire family busy for hours. A 400’ foot tubing hill and a snow play area filled with a blizzard of snow activities make Snow Mountain Atlanta’s not-to-be-missed winter attraction. There’s even a play zone reserved for your littlest snow bunnies. Snow Mountain’s state-ofthe-art snow-making magic guarantees you tons of fresh snow daily. And with two Mountain SnoLifts to get you up the tubing hill, you’ll want to go again and again! (800) 401.2407 stonemountainpark.com

“Elf”

December 7 -23 @ Studio II Series McClure Theatre 103 Tenth Street Columbus, GA ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, Unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF. (706) 327.3688

A Tuna Christmas

December 7-23, 19-22 @ Studio II Series McClure Theatre Back by popular demand, Jim Pharr and Ben Redding will be returning to the stage putting the fun in DisFUNction. Ben and Jim will play all 24 citizens of Tuna, the tiny Texas town that erupts in holiday mayhem every year with a disastrous production of “A Christmas Carol,” yard displays vandalized by the Christmas Phantom and a Humane Society overrun with iguanas, coyotes, sheep and myna birds. 60,000 patrons have made this a genuine Christmas tradition in Columbus.

performing groups, accomplishes over 500 military missions a year in support of the military and civilian communities in and around Fort Benning. (706) 256.3612 rivercenter.org

River Center for Performing Arts Presents: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

December 17 @ River Center for Performing Arts 900 Broadway Columbus, GA 7:30 P.M. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 30 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics along with a selection of compositions from Chip’s groundbreaking Fresh Aire series, which introduced the distinctive Mannheim sound to all of America. Experience the magic as the sprit of the season comes alive with dazzling multimedia effects and the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller! (706) 256.3612 rivercenter.org

River Center for Performing Arts Presents: A Cantus Christmas

December 18 @ River Center for Performing Arts 900 Broadway Columbus, GA 7:30 p.m. In its eighteenth annual holiday concert, the professional chorus CantusColumbus, directed by William J. Bullock, recounts the Christmas story with classical masterpieces and audience carols. The chorus is assisted this year by the renowned Vega String Quartet and the Legacy Hall concert organ and piano. This beautiful holiday tradition is the perfect way to prepare to receive the true message of the season. (706) 256.3612 rivercenter.org

Atlanta New Year’s Eve Peach Drop

December 31 @ Peachtree Street This Block Party for Thousands offers live Musical Performances by local artists and musicians, as well as a midnight Fireworks Spectacular. Tickets are available at a variety of local sources. Stay downtown and enjoy the festivities at Flatiron Building across from Woodruff Park,... enjoy the ‘official’ Peach Drop at midnight - followed by a really awesome New Year’s fireworks display, with live performances.

Selma Holiday Festival

December 3-15 @ Performing Arts Center 1000 Selma Ave. Selma, AL A community celebration of the holiday season. A two week longcraft show and bake sale with Santa in attendance some afternoons. 9:30 am. -5:30pm.

(706) 327.3688 springeroperahouse.org

Tallassee

River Center for Performing Arts Presents: McCoe Holiday Concert

Christmas Tree Lighting

December 15 @ River Center for Performing Arts 900 Broadway Columbus, GA 7:30 P.M. For over 50 years, the Maneuver Center of Excellence Band has taken great pride in entertaining the soldiers, military families, and civilians of the Fort Benning, Columbus, and Phenix City communities. The Band’s performances create esprit de corps among soldiers and veterans, as well as provide patriotic spirit within the civilian community. Currently the MCoE Band, with its eight

November 30 @ Veterans Park 5:30 p.m. (334) 283.5151 tallassee-al.gov

Holiday Parade

December 1 10 a.m. Begins at Tallassee Church of Christ and goes thru Central Blvd down to Barnette Blvd. and end at Tallassee High school. (334) 283.5151 tallassee-al.gov

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

What Makes You Want to Yell? When I get frustrated, or feel that someone didn’t do something the way I’d hoped, I sometimes yell. But over the years, I’ve learned that yelling about things is a pretty ineffective way to get what I want done. And yelling at your teen is probably the least effective bring about change I their life too. It’s sort of like trying to train a horse by screaming at him. Imagine standing at the edge of the fence and hollering out directions while expecting the horse to understand, and move one way or the other in response. Or yelling at him more when he doesn’t get it, and getting louder when the horse fails to respond, and you feel unheard. The trouble is, horses aren’t led by yelling at them. Horses respond by being led. They need someone to attach a lead-rope to their halter, and apply some pressure in order to train them in exactly what you want them to do. Without a lead – a horse will never do what you want him to do. And without leadership, your teen will never be trained, or respond the way you want him to. My point is, yelling at your teen doesn’t help him understand what you want him to do. But leadership does. The dynamic I often see with troubled families is a gross imbalance in family leadership. One parent may go overboard and over-respond, while the other lands too softly, and under-responds, and may even avoid the conflict altogether. The net Montgomery Parents I November 2018

response to ineffective and imbalanced family leadership is often seen in ongoing fits of anger, and screaming that includes everyone in the family. One recent example of a gross imbalance in family leadership is that of a dad whose wife constantly over-reacted to their son’s verbal disrespect. Instead of dealing with his son’s disrespect by setting boundaries and applying strong consequences, he would simply tell his wife to stop being so sensitive. After a while, she couldn’t tolerate even the slightest bit of sarcasm or verbal energy coming from their son, and the encounters between the two of them got so heated that the dad finally decided to move out. He rented an apartment down the road from their house and lived with his verbally abusive and out of control teen – just so he could stay married to his wife. She was beyond her ability to control her reactions, and he was beyond his ability to step-up and put limits on his son’s behavior while in the home. Hers was an over-reaction, his was an under-reaction, and neither response helped their son with his own behavior. Single moms face huge concerns with family leadership, and operate at an even deeper level of need than most – because one of the two parents required for a balanced family leadership is gone or missing in action. By the time a boy is 12 or 13, he can often out-yell, out-swing, and out-weigh a mom. One single mom dealt with the lack of ability to effectively lead her physically aggressive son by locking herself into her bedroom with her 78

dinner every night, ignoring things as her son kicked the door in, broke windows, smashed furniture, and made a mess of their life. If your home lacks leadership, rest assured that the way to assert more control is not through screaming, and not through ignoring. Instead of lashing out or laying low– lead. Lead with strength. Set strong boundaries, apply strong but appropriate consequences. Balance your strength with love and wisdom and good listening. And if you need to, get some help. Every time your child understands that a parent is over the edge (usually recognized through ongoing screaming or yelling) he knows you cannot be trusted to lead him well. Every time rage becomes the way to control your child, it sets off a hopeless cycle of despair in your child’s heart. Every time your child uses his rage to control things in the home, he is trying to ask you for help to lead him out of a troubling dilemma. Yelling is a sign that on some level – you are just as out of control as he is – and unable to lead either one of you out of the mess you are in. Family leadership is a tricky balance of strength and softness. When the leadership scales get tipped too far toward strength, the result is over-control. When the leadership scales get tipped to far toward softness, the result is avoidance and under-control. And both imbalanced approaches usually result in a whole lot of yelling, and offer no help for your troubled teen.

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.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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First Man

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: A Violence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: B In 1962, Neil Armstrong (Ryan Gosling) reads an unusual job posting: NASA, the United States’ fledgling space program, is looking for astronauts. With their counterparts in the Soviet Union making enormous progress, it’s time for the USA to get serious if they intend to beat the Russians to the ultimate goal-- landing a man on the moon. For Neil, the opportunity comes at the perfect time. Shattered after losing a two-year-old daughter to cancer, this quiet and intensely private man is struggling to maintain emotional calm in front of his concerned wife Janet (Claire Foy) and their remaining children. A change of scenery and the challenge of a new workplace offers tempting relief, and Neil accepts an offered position. Already emotionally distant, Neil’s reluctance to share his experiences with Janet pushes their marriage to its limits. Things reach a breaking point when Neil is selected to lead a team of astronauts on the Apollo 11 mission-- if he succeeds, he’ll accomplish one of the most extraordinary feats in human history. If he fails, there’s no possibility of rescue. We may know how this story’s going to end, but what we seldom think about in a society saturated with touch screens and pocket-sized computers, is how it must have felt to not know. The film portrays this uncertainty with sincerity and emotion-- we see the terrible price exacted on the astronauts and their families as they risk everything. Some of these moments are disturbing; all are powerful, and they offer a fitting tribute to those whose lives were forever changed (or lost) in the name of scientific progress. Although we’ll never know exactly what Neil thought and felt at the moment he made history, First Man offers tender and thought-provoking access to his experience.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The story starts with a family. Sarah and Sonny Quinn (Madison Iseman and Jeremy Ray Taylor) live with their mom, Kathy (Wendi McLendon-Covey), in a sleepy town in New York. Sonny and his best friend Sam (Caleel Harris) run a junk business and they are hired to clean out a dilapidated house with the promise they can keep whatever they find as payment. The boys discover a secret room with a chest and a locked book inside. After they open it a strange ventriloquist dummy, Slappy, appears. Then the fun really begins. Slappy does his best to befriend the boys and Sarah, helping them as much as he can with his magical powers. But he soon becomes controlling, demanding, and even violent in his efforts to become part of the Quinn family. The kids try to get rid of Slappy, but this only makes him angrier and determined to seek revenge against them. To this end Slappy combines his powers with the local Tesla plant to make all of Halloween come to life - the decorations, the costumes, even the candy. Some of it’s adorable, and some of it’s a little spooky as we see pumpkins, gnomes, scarecrows, a headless horseman, and gummy bears as living creatures. I do mean that it’s spooky for children - I was fine. In what becomes a relatively predictable climax and denouement we see the Quinn siblings and Sam fight off and defeat the Halloween monsters and save each other and their town. This is a nice introduction into the horror genre for kids. There were spooky, suspenseful moments, and lots of creepy editing and music, but nothing that older children couldn’t handle. But for younger or sensitive children (which mine are both) I’d probably save this one for a few years.

Johnny English Strikes Again

Indivisible MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The “based on a true family” story begins with Darren Turner (Justin Bruening) and his wife Heather (Sarah Drew) as they prepare for his first deployment to Iraq in 2007. Turner is an Army Chaplain and right out of the gate he’s just a down to earth kind of fella who’s here to help strengthen everyone’s families. While others continue to warn Darren and Heather about the difficulties of deployment on a marriage, they are confident in their devotion to each other and to God. As expected, deployment takes a serious toll on their marriage, and each of them individually. Communication shuts down, resentment builds up, and by the time Darren comes home their marriage sort of hobbles along. That is until some therapy, some tough love from a friend, and some montage music comes to the rescue. This was an incredibly mild PG-13, and older children would be able to handle the action and war violence, though I’m not sure how interested they’d be in a movie that is mostly about resolving marital issues. Scenes where families cope with death are emotionally intense, but also overacted and poorly written. The whole point of the movie is finding and keeping faith, working through doubts, and building strong families. So while the themes are uplifting, they are also unfortunately heavy-handed. So while the content is pretty family friendly, I found myself repeatedly checking my watch and rolling my eyes at the overly saccharine portrayal of Darren Turner. Montgomery Parents I November 2018

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: B Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ After two previous missions for MI7, the comically inept agent Johnny English (Rowan Atkinson) is recalled from retirement when a computer hack reveals the identities of every British asset worldwide. English and his sidekick Bough (Ben Miller) are sent to the South of France, where it is believed the cyber attack originated. Notwithstanding their talent for bungling the simplest of operations, English and Bough manage to identify the cyber attacker. Then comes the most difficult part of the mission: proving their case and apprehending him. Johnny English Strikes Again has been given a PG rating which is completely appropriate. Parents will be pleased with the almost total lack of profanity (I counted four curse words). There is also very little sexual content, although I should point out that there is a scene of male buttock nudity. I deplore nudity in films, but I must confess to laughing at this scene: it is the funniest “pants-ing” moment I have ever seen. The biggest content issue in the film is violence – there is a lot of slapstick fighting, mostly ineffective, with no blood or other injuries seen. Moviegoers will also get a kick out of the lead actor, Rowan Atkinson, who gained fame in the Mr. Bean series. Atkinson, with his expressive face and genius for physical comedy, shines as Johnny English. 80

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Alabama Dance Theatre Announces New Company and 2018-2019 Season

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Alabama Dance Theatre recently held company auditions and the 2018-19 Senior Company members selected are Abigail Barr, Celeste Deale, Mary Olivia Dudley, Emily Efferson, Savannah Golden, Ahsha Gray, Karen Licari, Abigail Perkinson and Virginia Perry. Junior Company members are Jane Abbie Alford, Cameron Caldwell, Morgan Calhoun, Hayes Chapman, Clover Hardin, Celeste Herod, Ja’Niya Kennedy, Morgan Marshall, Shannon McGaughey, Camilla Ohme, Lilla Kate Parkman, Molly Selman, Micah Sims, Amelia Kate Skala and Ryan Tucker. Apprentices for the 2018-19 Season are Lauren Babcock, Samantha Bell, Alexandria Brooks, Elle McBride, Kathryn Ruth Parsons, Lilla Wilson and Isadora Wright. The Alabama Dance Theatre opened its spectacular 32nd “Once Upon a Season” with two successful free performances of “Stars on the Riverfront” July 29 & 30 at the Riverwalk Amphitheater and will continue its tradition of excellence in the 2018-19 Season. Alabama Dance Theatre continues to achieve regional recognition and has established a reputation as a strong training ground for pre-professional dancers. Alabama Dance Theatre will present the classic drama Dracula, and one performance of Mistletoe, ADT’s holiday classic at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, November 3 & 4. Performances of Dracula will be held Saturday, November 3, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, November 4, at 2:30 p.m. at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. A special children’s matinee of Mistletoe will be held November 3 at 2:30 p.m. and will feature “Favorite Dances of Christmas.” ADT’s annual spring performance will feature the long-awaited premiere of Beauty and the Beast and will be March 1-3, 2019, at the Davis Theatre. The Alabama Dance Theatre, an acclaimed regional company, and top-ranking Honor Company member of Regional Dance America/ Southeastern Regional Ballet Association (RDA/SERBA), will travel to attend the RDA/SERBA Festival in Athens, Ga., May 1-5, 2019. In addition to public performances, ADT offers special school performances of Dracula and Mistletoe and Beauty and the Beast for more than 3,000 area students. ADT’s outreach program includes performances at the Junior League Holiday Market, Blue-Gray Colonels Ball, and demonstrations and readings at area schools and libraries. Tickets range in price from $15-$30 and can be purchased four weeks prior to each performance date. Call (334) 625-2590 for information on classes or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com. Photo by David Robertson, Jr.

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During this month of Thanksgiving, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget our military service members. Many organizations and veterans groups offer ways to help support and show gratitude to members of the armed forces. Help a veteran, a deployed service member and military families know that you appreciate their sacrifices. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how:

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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1) Help an expectant military mom. Soldiers’ Angels Baby Brigade is a nationwide network of individuals who sew, knit and create gift baskets to support new and expectant mothers whose husbands are deployed. To donate, visit https://soldiersangels.org/ Baby-Brigade-Team.html. 2) Write a letter. Remind veterans and their families that you appreciate their commitment to our nation. Write a letter to a deployed soldier, a wounded warrior or a veteran who has served in past wars through OperationGratitude.com or a military family through Operation Appreciation sponsored by Blue Star Families, www.bluestarfam.org. 3) Support their furry friends. Raise money to go toward fostering pets of active duty service members, wounded warriors and homeless veterans. Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet is a non-profit organization that finds qualified foster families to care for pets while soldiers are deployed or when military families transfer overseas. 4) Contribute to Paralyzed Veterans of America. This organization supports veterans who suffer from a spinal cord injury. Participate in one of the organization’s sporting events or fundraisers, make a monetary donation or collect and donate bags of clothing, shoes, belts, hats, books, CDs and

small household goods. For information, visit www.pva.org. 5) Assist disabled and wounded veterans. Volunteer at your local Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital or help disabled veterans whether running errands, doing yard work or assisting them with transportation. Contact www.dav. org for more information. 6) Help them call home. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) supports and assists military veterans and their families through a variety of programs, including Operation Uplink. The program enables service members and hospitalized veterans to make free calls back home to loved ones for three days each month. Go to www.VFW.com to find out how you can make a donation. 7) Aid service dogs. PatriotPaws trains dogs to serve disabled veterans. You can volunteer to help the organization by bathing and walking dogs, running errands or fundraising. For more information visit www. patriotpaws.org. 8) Clip coupons. Don’t toss your expired coupons! Military families stationed overseas can use coupons for up to six months past the expiration dates. Visit www.coupsfortroops.com for drop-off sites or to find out where to mail your coupons.

9) Donate DVDs. DVDS4Vets is a nonprofit organization started by Dr. Richard Landis, an orthopedic surgeon who helped build clinics in Afghanistan, and James F. Nicholson, who served as an Air Force pilot in Korea between 1950 and 1953. Landis and Nicholson saw a need to provide basic entertainment for veterans who returned home with traumatic brain injuries and other serious wounds and were undergoing longterm rehabilitation. To donate used or new DVDs to veterans, visit www.dvds4vets.org. 10) Send a care package. Visit Anysoldier. com to learn how to send a letter and what is appropriate for care packages. If you’d like to help support a veteran who does not have family to assist in the transition to home and civilian life, check out the Adopt a Veteran program through SoldiersAngels.org. Those who volunteer to be an Adopting Angel make a 12-month commitment to send a letter each week and a small gift once a month, tailored to the veteran’s needs. 11) Say thank you. If you see a soldier in uniform or a veteran, a simple “Thank you for your service” is a considerate way to express your gratitude. For more ways to thank a vet, visit www.kidsthankavet.com. mp Christa Melnyk Hines, daughter of retired USAF SMSgt. Walter Melnyk, is thankful for all of our veterans.

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Tracking Top Train Toys

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Ranking high among toys that inspire obsessive interest among children, trains are one of the most accessible fascinations for kids everywhere. Beyond encountering trains on daily commutes, there are a host of rail systems and railroadinspired toys that are ideal for supporting young interest in trains. With its variety of configurations, train set play can also foster spatial reasoning, understanding of systems and pattern recognition among young enthusiasts. Echoing the whistle and chimes, the rumble and clack of their real-life counterparts, children can bring the mechanical marvels of locomotive transport to life through pretend-play with trains.

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by Gerry Paige Smith

Melissa & Doug Figure Eight Train Set

Thomas & Percy’s Trackmaster Railway Race Set

Durable, easily manipulated wooden train tracks and cars are ideal for starting a young railroad fan down the right track. The Figure Eight Train Set offers a continuous circuit to build with twenty interlocking track pieces. Crafted from lightweight solid wood with easily connected puzzle piece ends, small hands will have no trouble assembling the eight, or a track shape of their choice. The set also comes with a wooden engine and coal car that attach with magnets for minimal frustration. Working well with similar wooden train systems, the Melissa & Doug Figure Eight Train Set is just the beginning of an expanding enterprise for railroad engineers.

Ready for racing, two of Sodor’s most beloved trains pair up for a friendly competition that takes exciting twists and turns along the way. Motorized Thomas and Percy are primed at the starting line and when the braking track is released, these two racing engines surge forward in their steampowered contest. Parting ways at a breakaway bridge, each engine navigates a separate path as they course toward victory. Famous for their expressive faces, these racing models of Thomas and Percy are customized with especially determined features as they vie for the checkered flag finish. Fisher Price’s Trackmaster toys also offer connectible expansion packs for young Thomas tycoons who want to grow their track footprint in Sodor.

Little Tikes Tumble Train

V-Tech Sit-to-Stand Alphabet Train

Adding unpredictability to the journey, Little Tikes Tumble Train turns a ride on the rails into a twisting and turning tossup. With adult help recommended, the lightweight tracks connect into a colorful infinity bend. Once the three-dimensional track is assembled, the battery powered train engine is ready to move the tracks themselves as it navigates the twists and turns. The weight of the engine grounds each section of the track it travels, causing the track assembly itself to lift and tumble as it accommodates the train’s movement. Ideally enjoyed in a flat open space of floor, it’s both fun to follow or the perfect foil for a game of dodge. The train can also run off-rail as a separate play vehicle. For those who love surprising twists and tumbles in an otherwise predictable playspace, Little Tikes Tumble Train turns the railroad map on its ear!

Before they’re ready to assemble their own tracks, little railroad fans can get acquainted with trains through a host of activities offered by V-Tech’s Sit-to-Stand Ultimate Alphabet Train. With the overall profile of a locomotive and car, this train is packed with interactive learning opportunities and physical encouragement. Featuring components to manipulate alphabet blocks that feed into a responsive slots, kids get entertaining feedback through songs, sounds and phrases. For toddlers making their move from floor to feet, the train itself is designed to support riding as well as pull-up guidance. Once they’re walking, tots can load up the caboose and use it as a pull-along. Supporting positive engagement and development on every front, this train helps kids take their first step onboard.

(Fisher Price)

(Melissa & Doug)

(V-Tech)

(Little Tikes)

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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2018 Blanket Drive Helping Montgomery’s Homeless

On any given night, there are more than 800 homeless men, women, and children in shelters and on the streets in Montgomery. These include veterans, survivors of domestic violence, individuals suffering from mental illness or substance abuse disorders, as well as families with children. The winter cold is not here yet, but it will be soon, and MACH is preparing now to serve the most basic needs of Montgomery’s homeless population through its annual Blanket Drive. During the month of November, MACH will place three PODS storage containers at strategic locations in Montgomery to serve as collection points for new and gently used sleeping bags, blankets, coats, hats, socks, and other winter wear. PODS storage containers will be located at the Festival Plaza Shopping Center at the intersection of Taylor and Vaughn Roads, the Cloverdale Playhouse on 690 Cloverdale Rd, and the Montgomery Biscuits Stadium on 200 Coosa Street. The PODS will be open on the first three Saturdays in November (November 3, 10, & 17) from 10 AM to 2 PM to accept donations from the public. Guardian Credit Union at 1794 E Main Street in Prattville, Montgomery East YMCA, andTroy University of Montgomery will be graciously accepting donations inside during normal business hours in November. Blankets and clothing will be distributed through MACH’s member agencies, including local homeless shelters and service providers. MACH volunteers will also distribute the blankets as part of the annual Point-in-Time count held during the last week of January. During the count, volunteer teams will visit places the homeless are known to frequent, such as shelters, underpasses, tent cities, and abandoned homes, to count and survey the homeless. While conducting the count, volunteers will hand out food, hygiene kits, and blankets and clothing collected during the drive. For more information or to volunteer or make a donation for the event, contact the Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless at (334)261-6182.

Balloon Game Carries Strong Message for Pink and Pearl Girls

Pink and Pearls for Girls held a recent workshop called “Don’t Let God’s Word Fall to the Ground.” As an opening exercise, all of the PP4G families participated in a game where the main goal was to keep all of the balloons in the air without letting them touch the ground. Each balloon had a commandment on it. This was quite a challenge, especially when more balloons (distractions) were added in.

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FamilyCalendar Thursday, November 1

Words and Music 7-9 p.m. Way Off Broadway Theatre, 203 West 4th Street, Prattville. Local songwriters Stephen Bray, Jason Givens, and Rachael Wilson will share their songs and the stories behind them. Admission is $5. Concessions will be sold at the event. For more info, call (334) 595-0854. Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex Presents Disney on Ice: Frozen -- Through November 4 Various performance times. Legacy Arena. Tickets begin at $15. For tickets or more info, visit www. bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400. Hay, Look at Us! Hay Bale Competition Through November 4 Town of Pike Road neighborhoods, businesses and organizations have decorated hay bales to reflect the following themes: Fall/Harvest, Support of the Pike Road Schools Patriots, Thanksgiving, and Halloween. Maps of each location with a hay bale will be available at Town Hall (9575 Vaughn Rd) and on www.pikeroad.us through Nov. 4. This makes a great family activity – a drive through the countryside, with exciting hay bale creations around every corner.

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Mistletoe 2:30 p.m. A special children’s matinee will feature “Favorite Dances of Christmas.” Newer works will include “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” and “Mary Did You Know?” and will bring back old favorites, “First

Autumn Outdoor Studio -- Also November 15 6-8 p.m. Celebrate the season at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts new Sculpture Garden by creating fall-themed art projects. All ages can enjoy a make-and-take art project and hot cocoa in the outdoor studio. This program is free, open to the public, and will take place rain or shine. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.

Stars: Powerhouses of the Universe -- Through November 29 4 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. W.A. Gayle Planetarium. Every star has a story. Some are as old as time, faint and almost forgotten. Journey to the furthest reaches of our galaxy and experience both the awesome beauty and destructive power of stars. General Admission: $6.50 per person for ages 5 and above. Doors open 30 minutes before show for ticket sales. Show starts promptly. For more info, visit www.troy.edu/planetarium/ or call (334) 625-4799.

First Friday Music: Electric Blue Yonder 6-8:30 p.m. Common Bond Brewers 424 Bibb Street, Suite #150, Montgomery. Electric Blue Yonder is a

Noel,” “Still, Still, Still”, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”. Tickets go on sale October 1 and range in price from $15-$30. Visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com or call (334) 625-2800. Old Cahawba Going Gothic: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Experience glorious Gothic Revival architecture from the inside out during this program designed to inspire. Investigate the social, political and religious reasons the Gothic Style stirred the Victorian denizens of Cahawba. Call (334) 8728058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook.com/oldcahawba. Admission is $8/ person.

Breach of Peace: Portraits of the 1961 Freedom Riders 1 p.m. Freedom Rides Museum, 210 S Court St, Montgomery. The Freedom Rides Museum hosts Eric Etheridge, author of Breach of Peace: Portraits of the 1961 Mississippi Freedom Riders (Expanded Edition) along with Freedom Rider Catherine BurksBrooks. The book combines history, photography and journalism to share the story of the Freedom Rides and the hundreds who participated to bring about integration of interstate public travel in the U.S. Cost of admission is $3-$5. For more info, call (334) 414-8647. Pike Road Arts & Crafts Fair 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Historic Marks House, 890 Old Carter Hill Rd., Pike Road. Thousands of visitors will enjoy diverse works of quality artwork and craftwork, delicious food and great shopping just in time for the Thanksgiving and Christmas Season. For more info, find us on Facebook. Super Hero Education Program at the Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-noon. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. Dress up as your favorite super hero and see what you may have in common with some of the animals at the Zoo. This program is geared for boys and girls, ages 4-12 years old. All participants are encouraged to wear this favorite super hero costume

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Campfire Cooking at Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. We will learn how to not only start a successful campfire but how to cook on a fire! We are providing the food. Guests will learn how to prepare various types of food over a campfire as well as enjoy some tasty foods. Please RSVP to (334) 285-4550 to add your name to the list. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/.

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Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -- Also November 8, 15, 22 & 29 2:30 p.m. ArtWorks at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the arts of different cultures. ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing, and traditions of the country in focus (this month is Japan). Connections will also be made to works in the Museum’s galleries. Classes are limited to 25 students. First come, first serve. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Saturday, November 3

and show off their super powers. $28 per child (ages 4-12 years old, $20 for Montgomery Zoo members). Accompanying adult event fee: $17 (13 years old and older). FREE for Montgomery Zoo members accompanying adults. For more info, call (334) 6254900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com.

Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at

Theatre AUM Presents Child’s Play -- Through November 11 7:30 p.m. performances except one 2 p.m. matinee November 11. Written by Kevin D. Ferguson. $10 - general admissions; $5 - senior citizen, non-AUM students, and military (with ID); and free - AUM students, faculty, staff, and alumni (with AUM ID). For reservations or more info, contact Katie at (334) 244-3632 or kpearso2@aum.edu.

Friday, November 2

collective focused on songwriting and sonic craft with clear influences of 60’s and 70’s psychedelia and folk-rock steeped in the Deep South unrestrained by notions of genre or contemporaneous influence. This is a free event and an outdoor concert. Outside food welcome. Bring the family and enjoy good tunes and good brews. Dogs on leashes are welcome outside. Call (334) 676-2287 or find us on Facebook for more info.

Zoo Volunteer Serve Day 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. We are gathering volunteer groups to accomplish several tasks in preparing the Montgomery Zoo for Christmas Lights Festival and the upcoming holiday season. We are asking volunteers to help with landscaping, trimming bushes, planting flowers, raking leaves, painting, and overall prepping the Zoo for the holiday season. Volunteers can be adults, teens, civic groups, school groups, church groups, businesses, military squadrons, and families. Ages 12-16 years old must be accompanied by a parent or designated group chaperone. Volunteers under the age of 19 must obtain parent permission to volunteer. At this time, we are unable to accept court-ordered community service. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo. com. Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Dracula -Also November 4 7 p.m. November 3; 2:30 p.m. November 4. Choreographed by Sara Sanford and performed at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, this production will thrill audiences with special effects, lavish costumes, and breathtaking scenery. Philip Feeney’s score illuminates Bram Stoker’s classic novel with incredible clarity and breathes new life into this timeless story. Tickets range from $15-$30 and can be purchased by visiting www.alabamadancetheatre.com or by calling (334) 625-2800. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. All locations. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. You and your child can build a custom model military helicopter to celebrate and honor all who have served our country in our hands-on Veterans’ Day focused workshop. Once your project is built, you and your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. 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://homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also Nov. 10 & 17, Dec. 1 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3-8. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or

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Calendar guardian must remain on premises. Nov. 3 is Christmas Tree; Nov. 10 is Jolly Santa Craft; Nov. 17 is Penguin Craft; Dec. 1 is Advent Calendar. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/.

Sunday, November 4

Pike Road Veterans Appreciation Ceremony 2 p.m., Pike Road Veterans Memorial, 4902 Pike Road. As each year, we will dedicate a new class of personalized veterans bricks in the Walk of Honor. We will hear from a distinguished guest speaker, and enjoy the patriotic tunes of the Capitol Sounds beginning at 1:30 p.m. Distinguished Guest Speaker: Lieutenant Colonel Scott Corey, Commander of the 42nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron. For more info, visit www.pikeroad.us. First Sundays at One -- Also December 2 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/. Food Truck Takeover at Hampstead Noon-3 p.m. Hampstead Town Center. A variety of local trucks, craft beer, wine and cocktails at our Town Center businesses including The Tipping Point (open for drinks and snacks - food truck food may be brought in) and TASTE serving Sunday Brunch. Live music. Great for all ages. For more info, visit www. hampsteadliving.com/. Hampstead Fall Festival 2018 Noon-3 p.m. This huge outdoor carnival is a great day for kids, families, and the young at heart in various locations at Hampstead. Stretching from our Farm to Hampstead Field to the Town Center, this event is one of our biggest extravaganzas ever! $10 wristbands include all rides, inflatables, games, and kids’ events! Food trucks and the tipping point will have food and drinks for sale. For more info, visit www.hampsteadliving.com/.

Wednesday, November 7

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. Fort Toulouse/Fort Jackson Frontier Days Through November 10 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Fort Toulouse/Fort Jackson Park, Wetumpka. This snapshot of frontier life includes Creek Indians, French soldiers and their families, British traders who lived among the Creeks, and American soldiers who fought in Andrew Jackson’s army during the Creek War. Admission is $8/adult & $7/child. For more info, call (334) 567-3002 or visit https://fttoulousejackson.org/. Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also December 5 Noon-1 p.m. 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.

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FamilyCalendar Friday, November 9

Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets 10 a.m.-noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round (except during November and December). Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

Saturday, November 10

Diabetes Stride Walk 9 a.m. at Cottonwood Golf Club off Trotman Road in Pike Road. Hosted by the Pike Road Lions Club. Walk to raise awareness of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Proceeds from the event will benefit Camp Seale Harris, a camp for children with type 1 diabetes. Health screenings, vendor booths and product info will be available to assist participants in their management of diabetes. Contact Jeff at jpinegar424@ yahoo.com or Erin at eturnham@outlook.com for more info. Montgomery Zoo Dino Dig 10 a.m.-noon. Junior explorers get to experience an archaeological dig, discover bones from the past and have a great time while learning about creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old. It is a combination educational program packed with a classroom lesson plan, real dig time, live animal presentations, and everyone leaves with a take-home, keepsake goody bag. $25 per child (ages 4-12 years old), $18 for Montgomery Zoo members. Last day to make reservations is November 9 at noon. Call (334) 625-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com. Alabama Nature Center Rocks! 11:30 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Ready to “Rock Out?” Come visit us to search for and paint some nature scene rocks! This program will be informal and will be good for children and adults alike. All materials will be supplied. Feel free to hide your rock around the ANC once you are done, or take it home as a souvenir. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Market at Evergreen Acres 7 a.m.-noon. 563 Dozier Rd., Wetumpka. Unique, handmade, local arts and crafts, food, decor, apparel and more. For more info, find us on Facebook or call Beverly at (334) 328-2741 or Tranum at (334) 322-1964. Christmas on the Square at The Waters A warm and inviting Christmas shopping experience to the town of Pike Road as well as a fundraiser to Pike Road Elementary School. Whole Foods Second Saturday Kids Club 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Each second Saturday, Whole Foods will host fun, hands-on craft activities to teach kids about healthy eating. It’s totally free, and every participant gets a piece of fruit and whatever they make in the workshop! For more info, call (334) 523-2940 or visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/montgomery.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

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/137445469279 2666/?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and 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. AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also November 24 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, November 11

Remembering WWI: An Armistice Centennial Concert 3:30 p.m., Alabama Department of Archives and History front terrace. Featuring the 151st Army Band of the Alabama National Guard and dramatic readings by Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s Greta Lambert and Rodney Clark. Admission is free. Seating will be provided, but attendees are welcome to bring their own folding chairs. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved inside the ADAH. For more info, call (334) 353-3312 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Wetumpka Veteran’s Day Events 11 a.m. Pineview Memorial Gardens on Hwy 111 just North of Wetumpka. VFW Post 4572, Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts place flags on veterans’ graves and hold a brief program. Following the ceremony at noon, there will be a dedication of the 155 MM Schneider Howitzer at the Samuel Chester Bass Boy Scout Lodge in Memorial Park (behind Wetumpka Police Department). This monument was funded as an Eagle Scout Project for Noah Hudson (BSA Troop 50). Then at 2 p.m. there will be a dedication for the WW I monument at the Old Elmore County Courthouse downtown as an Eagle project funded by Owen Tilley (BSA Troop 13). Lastly, at 6:30 p.m. Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 US Highway 231, Wetumpka, will hold a Musical Tribute to Veterans Celebration. The Gallery of Honor opens at 4 p.m. For more info, call (334) 451-9108 or e-mail howard.g.perdue.ctr@mail.mil. Out of the Darkness Suicide Awareness Walk 1-4 p.m., The Waters, 2239 Marler Rd., Pike Road. Join the effort to raise awareness and funds that allow the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support survivors of suicide loss. For more info, call

Cheryl at (334) 322-5988 or e-mail cherylwvinson@ gmail.com. Oakwood Cemetery Walking Tour 1:30 p.m. Free for Landmarks members; $10 for non members. Jeff Benton, local historian and author, leads the tour from the Royal Air Force and Free French World War II cemeteries to Hank Williams’ grave, Eternal Rest Cemetery, Union Civil War Memorial and St. Margaret’s Cemetery – and places of interest along the route. Tickets may be purchased at the Old Alabama Town Museum Store during business hours. Tour participants are asked to meet at the Hank Williams Memorial in Oakwood Cemetery’s Eastern Annex. Wear comfortable shoes. For more info, visit www.landmarksfoundation.com/ or call (334) 240-4500. Veteran’s Appreciation Week at the Montgomery Zoo -- Through November 17 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily. 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery. During Veteran’s Appreciation Week, all veterans, active duty military and their immediate family members receive a 50% DISCOUNT on regular daytime admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Participants must provide a valid military identification to receive discount. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com.

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Wednesday, November 14

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/. Willie Nelson & Family at MPAC 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Born in Texas in 1933, country singer and songwriter Willie Nelson rose to prominence at the end of the 1960s and contributed to the “outlaw country” subgenre, which challenged the conservatism of Nashville. Now in his 80s, Nelson continues to record and tour, as well as devoting a considerable amount of time to various charitable and political causes. With special guest Los Lonely Boys. Tickets begin at $57. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Thursday, November 15

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 Portrait that Created a President: Ralph E. W. Earl’s Andrew Jackson,” presented by Rachel Stephens. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Capri Theatre Presents Dial M for Murder 7:30 p.m. The Alfred Hitchcock classic. Tony discovers that while he’ was busy with his tennis career, his wealthy wife, Margot, has been having an affair with an American writer, Mark. He comes up with a simple plan - have her killed by a former acquaintance. But it’s Hitchcock, and Tony couldn’t even hire a competent murderer. For more info, visit www.capritheatre. org or call (334) 262-4858.

Last Call: Views of the South 5:30-8 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Hosted by the Museum’s Junior Executive Board, Last Call is an opportunity to socialize with young professionals and explore Views of the South: Photographs

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FamilyCalendar from the Do Good Fund. These events are free and open to the public; no reservation required. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. 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. Guest speaker will be Richard Deem, CEO of the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Please bring a food donation or check made out to the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Luncheon cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, November 12, to Cathy Donald at (225) 287-3693 or cathydonaldne@ gmail.com. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com for more info. Wetumpka Depot Presents Candy Cane Cabaret Through November 16 7:30 p.m. A benefit for the Depot’s new Penguin Project for special needs kids. For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Sound of Music -Through December 30 Music and lyrics by Rodgers and Hammerstein; directed by Rick Dildine. The beloved story of Maria, a young and spirited nun-turned-governess, and the Von Trapp family. This delightful musical will thrill audiences with its Tony, Grammy and Academy Award winning Best Score. Recommended ages 7+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.

Friday, November 16

2018 Blue/Gray Invitational Gymnastics Competition -- Through November 18 Multiplex at Cramton Bowl at 220 Hall Street, Montgomery. Admission is $10 per day per person; 2-Day Passes are $15; Weekend Passes are $20; Children 5 and under are free. For more info, call (334) 6252789 or visit www.armoryathletics.com.

Saturday, November 17

Prattville Artist Market 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Local artists gather to sell their work at the Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery. Enjoy music and hands-on art projects while you shop for one-of-a-kind pieces for your collection or for those on your gift list! For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit facebook.com/prattaugaartguild. 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/. Alabama Nature Center Survival Day 11:30 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Ready to “Rock Out?” Come visit us to search for and paint some nature scene rocks! This program will be informal and will be good for children and adults alike. All materials will be supplied. Feel free to hide your rock around the ANC once you are done, or take it home as a souvenir. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Artist Market 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Artist Market is a great way to kick off

the holiday season and start your holiday shopping. In addition to our outstanding Museum Store artists, we’ve invited some new regional artists to join the Market this year. Shop local and support the River Region artistic community. Friends and family welcome; you won’t want to miss this once-a-year opportunity! For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/. Happy Birthday, Autauga County! 6-8 p.m. Creekwalk behind Prattville City Hall. Cake, concert and celebrating the 200th birthday of Autauga County with a free concert by OTI and cake (while supplies last), as well as a photo booth and other birthday fun. For more info, call (334) 5950854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. Lights Up at EastChase 6-8 p.m. Shoppes at EastChase, 7274 EastChase Pkwy., Montgomery. Kick off the holiday season with a festive community parade, live music by Jason Givens and The Wanderers ft. Cameron DuBois, fireworks, Santa and even a chance of snow! For more info, visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com/.

Sunday, November 18

Art Talk & Afternoon Tea featuring Carl Calderone 2-4 p.m. at Pike Road Town Hall, presented by the Pike Road Arts Council. Each of these relaxing, Sunday afternoon gatherings will feature a different Pike Road-area artist, classic tea-style refreshments, and time to connect with friends and neighbors. The tables are beautifully decorated, and attendees are invited to dress to the occasion. Tickets are $20 each, and can be purchased at http://bit. ly/2MIynI4. The deadline to purchase tickets is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14. The tea will be catered by Paulette Dykes of Epicurean Delights. For more info, call (334) 272-9883. Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Get creative when you and your family visit the art studios to complete a make-and-take art project. This free docent-led program has specific themes related to Museum exhibitions and is sure to be fun and engaging for the whole family. This program is complemented by Jazz Jams. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. Holiday Open House 1-4 p.m. The Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery will be decorated for the holiday season and open for shopping. Stop by for light refreshments and find unique items for those special people on your Christmas shopping list! For more info, call (334) 595-0854.

Tuesday, November 20

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

Wednesday, November 21

See Me: Exploring Self-Portraits at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 p.m. This exciting new program designed for students with special needs includes an exploration of portraits in the galleries followed by a visit to ArtWorks, where we will see ourselves in the mirrors of a giant kaleidoscope and the Tannenbaum digital screen. Afterward, participants will create mixed-media self-portraits. This program is free and designed for ages 6 and older. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa.org.

Friday, November 23

Sesame Street Live at MPAC 2 & 6 p.m. When magician extraordinaire Justin visits Sesame Street to put on a magic show for the whole neighborhood, Elmo wants to be part of the big event. But Elmo doesn’t know how to do magic! In the end, Elmo learns that you can do anything you set your mind to if you just keep trying! Tickets begin at $15. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Christmas Holiday Bazaar @ Russell Crossroads 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 19 Russell Farms Road, Alexander City. Make sure the kids have their list for Santa ready, because he will arrive by carriage around 11. Meanwhile, the Holiday Bazaar on the Town Green kicks off with great Holiday Gift ideas at 9 a.m.! For more info, visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/blog/events/ or call (256) 397-1019.

Saturday, November 24

Turkey Day Scavenger Hunt at Alabama Nature Center 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Join us for a self-guided scavenger hunt that will be ongoing all day. Explore our trails in search of treasure ANC style. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. Ryan’s 5K Run & 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk 8-10:30 a.m. Frazer UMC JEMAC Parking Lot. This event is held in memory of Ryan Colburn, who was an avid sports fan. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite team colors! Proceeds support the Frazer Youth Worship Arts Program & also the Ryan Colburn Youth Scholarship, which supports youth with disabilities to attend the national Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs Conference. Early Bird registration rates end Nov. 18. T-Shirts guaranteed until Nov. 12, available for late/day of registration only while supplies last. For more info, visit frazer.church or contact debbiep@frazerumc.org.

Tuesday, November 27

Prattville Christmas Tree Lighting Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. Grassy area near the Fountain at Court and Third Streets. We will flip the switch to turn on the lights on the Christmas tree at 7 p.m. and Santa will arrive. This event is FREE and open to the public. For info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. Montgomery Academy aMAzing Morning Program 8:15-9 a.m. 1550 Perry Hill Rd. The Montgomery Academy aMAzing Morning Program is for prospective kindergartners and their parents. It is a unique opportunity for children and their parents to experience firsthand Montgomery Academy’s Lower School Enrichment program. Join us as we create a masterpiece in Art and enjoy a story in our library. Contact the Admissions Office at (334) 273-7155 or admissions@montgomeryacademy.org for more info or to RSVP.

Thursday, November 29

Union Springs Red Door Theatre Presents The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular -- Through December 2 7:30 p.m. performances Nov. 29-Dec. 1 and 2:30 p.m. matinees Dec. 1 & 2. This holiday sequel to

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FamilyCalendar the hugely popular show The Honky Tonk Angels continues the comic escapades of three good ole country gals as they re-unite for a Christmas show like none other at The Hillbilly Heaven Club in Nashville. There are many surprising twists and turns in this musical comedy revue, including a gospel soul sister who also happens to be a psychic manicurist. Songs include a Motown Christmas medley, country classics like “Coat of Many Colors” by Dolly Parton and comedy hits such as “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer.” Tickets are $15 and may be ordered at (334) 738-8687 or www.reddoortheatre.org. River Region Independent School Expo 5-7 p.m. at the Drum Theater at Huntingdon College, 1125 E Fairview Ave., Montgomery. Join us for a preview of our River Region pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade independent schools. Now is the perfect time to explore your options, meet representatives from the schools, and determine which option is best for your family. For more info, call Frances at (334) 272-7221 or visit https://riverregionindependentschools.com/. Christmas Lights Festival at the Montgomery Zoo -- Select dates through December 25 5:30-9:30 p.m. Nov. 29-Dec. 2, Dec. 6-9 and 13-25. 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery. See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland sparkling with thousands of lights and festive decorations. Take a leisurely stroll, a brisk train ride or see the lights from atop the Zoofari Skylift Ride. Visit Santa, enjoy the live nightly entertainment and no winter’s night would be complete without some warming hot chocolate and fresh baked cookies. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com. 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. 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. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@ mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4365. Small fee for the remaining session. In the Arts at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6 p.m. In partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet High, the Museum Muses host this arts-related career night for River Region teens. Professionals from community arts organizations and creative businesses showcase their work and answer questions about their education and career paths. For more info about this and other teen events, or if you would like to volunteer to share your career in the arts with teens, please contact Elisabeth at epalmer@mmfa.org. Wetumpka Depot Presents Junie B Jones: Jingle Bells and Batman Smells -- Through December 1 7 p.m. Directed by Chris Kelly, this play is based on the beloved children’s series following Junie as she digs her way out of the challenges of grade school! Junie fans will love this endearing holiday take on the book of the same title. For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Friday, November 30

Baptist Health Presents Chris Tomlin’s Christmas Songs of Worship at MPAC 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. From his rural Texas roots, cutting his chops on his father’s country-western record collection, to the small Baptist church where he was first compelled by congregational singing, and now in his current position as a worship leader, Chris Tomlin has always been motivated to provide spiritual seekers a voice to talk with God through music. Tickets begin at $40. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Saturday, December 1

Holiday Open House at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1-4 p.m. Enjoy a Saturday afternoon of holiday cheer at the 23rd annual Holiday Open House. Activities include festive studio activities, performances by local school choirs, and carriage rides. The galleries will be open, as will ArtWorks. Santa will also be here to take all the children’s holiday wish lists. Holiday Open House is free to attend, but visitors are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots or canned goods for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. 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. S aturday 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. Old Cahawba’s Happy Birthday Alabama Presentation 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Celebrate Alabama’s birthday at the site of its first permanent state capital. Gain new insight into Capital era Cahawba and early statehood while we sort bicentennial facts from fiction. After the presentation, you are invited to enjoy birthday cake in honor of our state, and then explore the ghost town of Old Cahawba! Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www. facebook.com/oldcahawba. Admission is $8/person.

Sunday, December 2

Alabama Farmers Federation Presents Restless Heart at MPAC 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Restless Heart has enjoyed one of the most successful careers in country music history, placing more than 25 singles on the charts. Tickets begin at $15. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Season of Light -- Through December 23 4 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. W.A. Gayle Planetarium. Season of Light explores the reasons humans are so fascinated with lighting up our lives during the December holiday season. It’s an exploration of the astronomical meanings behind seasonal traditions, including the “Star over Bethlehem.” General Admission: $6.50 per person

for ages 5 and above. Doors open 30 minutes before show for ticket sales. Show starts promptly. For more info, visit www.troy.edu/planetarium/ or call (334) 625-4799.

Tuesday, December 4

Wetumpka Christmas Tree Lighting Gold Star Park. 5 p.m. Pictures with Santa; 6 p.m. Tree Lighting. For more info, visit /www.cityofwetumpka. com/. Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex Presents Elton John 8 p.m. Legacy Arena. Tickets begin at $96. For tickets or more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 4588400.

Thursday, December 6

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever -Through December 16 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 203 West 4th Street, Prattville. Written by Barbara Robinson, directed by Joey Fine, by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. Tickets are $10 in advance and can be purchased at cc.prattvilleal.gov or by calling (334) 595-0854. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents It’s a Wonderful Life --through December 16 7:30 performances except for 2 p.m. matinees December 9 & 16. Adapted for the stage by James W. Rodgers; based on the film by Frank Capra and story by Peter Van Doren Stern. Directed by John Collier. The saga of George Bailey, the everyman from the small town of Bedford Falls, whose dreams of escape and adventure have been quashed by family obligation and civic duty, whose guardian angel has to descend on Christmas Eve to save him from despair and to remind him of a wonderful life. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheater.com/. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Private Lives Through December 16 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2 p.m. Sundays. Noel Coward was a playwright famous for using comedy and escapism in the face of dark and difficult times. Elyot and Amanda, once married and now honeymooning with new spouses at the same hotel, meet by chance, and reignite the old spark. After days of being reunited, they again find their fiery romance alternating between passions of love and anger. A roundelay of affiliations ensues in this hilarious play. For more info, call (334) 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org/special. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Gospel of Luke -- Through December 30 Actor Bruce Kuhn performs The Gospel of Luke with the passion and surprise of an eyewitness account. In a compelling ninety minutes, the tale comes alive with the urgency, fervor, and humor of someone who was there.Recommended ages 7+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353. Harlem Globetrotters at Garrett Coliseum 7 p.m. Featuring some of the most elite dunkers on the planet, exceptional ball handlers, and Guinness World Record holders, a Globetrotters game is more than just basketball – they are the ultimate in family entertainment. To match the growing popularity of the Globetrotters’ female stars, the team will also bring the largest female roster in team history to fans across North America. After virtually every game, the Harlem Globetrotters remain on the court for autographs and photographs with fans. Tickets are available at harlemglobetrotters.com, ticketmaster.com, the Garrett Coliseum box office, or by calling (800) 745-3000.

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FamilyCalendar MPAC Presents Michael W. Smith with Special Guest Melinda Doolittle 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, received 2x RIAA MultiPlatinum, 6 Platinum and 16 Gold certified albums, earned three GRAMMY Awards, one American Music Award and over 45 Dove Awards. Tickets begin at $27. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Friday, December 7

Prattville Christmas Concert 7 p.m. Doster Community Center on South Northington in Prattville. This annual concert featuring the Community Chorus and the Prattville Pops will delight the entire family with Christmas songs and sing-a-longs. For more info, call (334) 595-0854.

Saturday, December 8

Prattville Holiday Art Workshops 10-11:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m. The Prattauga Art Guild will host FREE Holiday Art Workshops for children ages 5 to 12 at the Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery. Children will create a fun holiday project to take home or give as a gift. Limited space is available for these workshops and reservations are required. For more info, call (334) 595-0854.

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Christmas on the Coosa 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Downtown Wetumpka. Christmas extravaganza with arts & crafts, parade, food, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. For more info, call (334) 567-5147 or visit www.cityofwetumpka.com/.

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Capri Theatre Presents It’s a Wonderful Life 7:30 p.m. The Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless is partnering with the Capri Theatre for the 3rd annual sockball fight! Please bring a pair of clean, unused socks and join in our sockball fight before the show. All socks will be collected by MACH and given to the homeless in the Montgomery area. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

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Christmas at Lanark 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy hayrides, Christmas crafts, decorating cookies and much more! Learn how to create your own nature ornament, get pictures with Santa, enjoy our Christmas movie special and hot chocolate. General admission applies and includes awesome events throughout the day! For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Black Jacket Symphony Presents Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers Damn the Torpedoes at MPAC 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Join us as we celebrate the life of Tom Petty with a notefor-note, sound-for-sound recreation of Damn the Torpedoes, plus a full set of Tom Petty’s greatest hits. Tickets begin at $25. For more info, visit www. mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Brunch with Santa at EastChase -- Also December 15 9 a.m. Delicious brunch, kids’ activities and visits with Santa, all benefiting Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 3 and up. For the kiddos we have: photo ops with Santa and his elves, facepainting, craft activity and balloon artist. Ticket price includes brunch and kids activities, as well as tax and gratuity. For more info, visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com/ or call (334) 279-6046.

Sunday, December 9

MPAC Presents Jersey Boys 6 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The 2006 Tony, Grammy and Olivier Awardwinning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the true story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide - all before they were 30! Tickets begin at $77. For more info, visit www. mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex Presents Trans-Siberian Orchestra 3 & 7:30 p.m. Legacy Arena. Tickets begin at $46. For tickets or more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.

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. Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Childbirth Preparation (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South. This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 2863466. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Chinese Calligraphy Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers free classes (noon-1 p.m. Tuesdays) weekly through November 13 at AUM’s Clement Hall 203. Instructor is Ms. Yunjia Yang (Janice). For more info, contact her at yyang8@aum.edu or (334) 394-5922. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers beginner classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses (noon-1 p.m. Thursdays) are provided free as a service to the community through November 15 at AUM’s Clement Hall 203. Instructor is Mr. Xiaojun Sun (Jack). For more info, contact him at xsun@aum.edu or (334) 244-3624. 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

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SupportGroups you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 747-7700 Option # for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 747-7700 Option # for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@ alabamachild.org. Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition 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.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@jackson.org. Preparing For A Natural Birth (One Time Class) Baptist Medical Center East. Please bring two bed pillows and a floor mat to class for breathing and relaxation exercise. This class equips expectant parents with natural childbirth options providing them with tools, techniques and coping skills for their labor and delivery experience. Participants will practice breathing and relaxation exercises along with other comfort measures. This class is most beneficial when your support person attends. Space is limited. Pre-registration required. Class fee: $20 (couple or single) payable at class by cash or check. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org or call 273-4445. 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 December 19 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info. Wetumpka Line Dance Classes held at A Chance to Dance, 68 Queen Ann Road, Wetumpka. Country and Non-Country Music for All Ages! CURRENT CLASS SCHEDULE: Mon. Beginner 7:15 p.m.; Wed. Beginner 10 a.m.; Wed. Senior 2 p.m.; Wed. Intermediate 7 p.m.; Fri. High Beginner/ Intermediate 7 p.m. *Open Dance to follow class. For more info, call (334) 452-0293 or find us on Facebook.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd 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.

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Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS2345 for more info. OTHER PROGRAMS/ SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer

patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800-ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

Divorce Support

DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. For more info, call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@frazerumc.org. DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy

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Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley. com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous Meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 6 p.m. and Mondays @ 6:30 p.m.: meet at Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US Hwy. 231 N in the Wetumpka/Wallsboro community. The church is 1 1/2 miles past Tutweiler prison on the same side of the street. Sundays @ 5 p.m.: meet at Mental Health of America, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. For more information about the GA meetings, call (334) 399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker, please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at (334) 277-5100.

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@ aol.com for more info. Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 279-6677. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. 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 on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in the parlor of First United Methodist Church Prattville. Led by Michael Beatty. For more info, call the church office at (334) 365-5977.

GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.

Homeschool Support

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

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 495-6350. Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss Support Group Meets at 6 p.m. third Wednesdays starting in October at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka. Group is for those living with or caring for someone with memory loss. This will be a monthly event that will provide information, a time to share and listen to others experiencing what you are, a time to be supported in your struggles and to share your victories. All are invited. Sometimes caregivers just need to talk with those that understand their struggles. For more info, call (334) 235-4151 or visit The Gathering Place Community Respite on Facebook. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A

Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-3654201), for additional information. Diabetes Support Group Noon-1 p.m. and 4-5 p.m., fourth Thursdays, Jackson Hospital Park Place Building Suite 302. Are you interested in learning how to better manage your Type 2 diabetes? Would you like support from others as you work to control your diabetes? Sponsored by inpatient diabetes educator Michelle Carothers, this group offers clinical information, advice and tips to make living with diabetes easier for you and your family. Register today! Call (334) 293-8574 or e-mail michelle.carothers@ jackson.org. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance on Mental Illness) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 7205 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. NAMI also presents a 12-week series of free classes on mental illness. These classes are for family members living with or supporting individuals with mental illness. To register, call Mary Jo at 271-2280 or e-mail classicmjl@hotmail.com. NAMI Connection (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a support group for individuals with mental illness. It meets every Thursday from 6-7:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Call Mary Jo Logan at 271-2280 for more info. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Ostomy Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Highway. Meets every other month on 2nd Sundays at 1:30 p.m. in Room 3101. 2018 meetings are in June, August, October and December. Call 495-6350 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer UMC Activity Bldg. Room 8114, on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 495-6350.

Parent Support

Century Strong Moms 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 11 Chapel Hill Street in Pike Road. At Century Church, we are dedicated to help-

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SupportGroups ing moms in our community be Strong Moms! This ministry is open to all moms in our community. The focus of this group is to build relationships through Bible study, play dates, and moms’ night out. Childcare is available for ages 1-5 years old. Please e-mail lifegroups@century.church for more info.

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.

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596.

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.

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 Method-

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail.com or visit http:// vfcmops.weebly.com/.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

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. Post-abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the One who came to set you free. Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) For more info, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net.

ist 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 in Prayer International is a Christ-centered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gather to pray for their children and schools. Meets every Sunday afternoon from 3-4 p.m. at St. James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road. Call Annette Jones at (850) 529-4730 or e-mail Montgomerymipac@gmail. com for more info on joining us or training to start your own group. 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

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

First Choice Women’s Medical Center conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet for one weeknight over eight consecutive weeks and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. Confidientiality is assured. Please contact Kathy at (334) 260-8010 or kkay@firstchoicewmc.com for more details and information about upcoming groups. “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) that focuses on inspiring, equipping and motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@yahoo.com for more information. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome. com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com for more info. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_ montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org.

Teens/Families Support

Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 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.

Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com. www.montgomeryparents.com

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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.

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Guild Mortgage, 15

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 34

Adventure Sports II, 15

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 31

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 49

Alabama Christian Academy, 33

Hooper Academy, 34

Prattville YMCA, 51

AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front

IEPA Academy, 32

Professional Pediatrics, 12

AL School of Math & Science, 63

Integrative Wellness, 20

Pump It Up Party, 70

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 43

Jackson Hospital, 39

Redland Baptist Church MMO, 55

Armory Athletics, 37

Kingry Orthodontics, 87

RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back

ASKIN/Synergy House, 87

Kitty and Friends Costumes, 32

RR Independent School Fair, 61

Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 19

Lakeview Baptist Church, 65

Riverview Camp for Girls, 29

Baptist Health, 2

Learning Tree Child Care, 50

Saint James School, 1

Chapman Orthodontics, 28

Little Lights Creative Learning Ctr, 32

Saint James UMC, 11

Children’s Aid Society of AL, 35

Lola Photography & Portrait Studio, 19

Spotless Cleaning Services, 8

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 54

Macon East Academy, 18

Success Unlimited Academy, 36

Christmas on the Coosa, 83

Mathnasium, 3

Swim Prep, 20

Churchill Academy, 26

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 85

Sylvan Learning Center, 14

CMH Mobile Notary Services, 54

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 22, 81

Dentistry for Children, 51

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 23

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 41

Montgomery Gem & Mineral Show, 49

Tomatino’s Pizza/Cafe Louisa, 27

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 41

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 21

Trinity Presbyterian School, 45

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 55

Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 4

Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 81

Evangel Christian Academy, 28

Montgomery Storks and More, 69

United Gymstars & Cheer, 21

Family Guidance Center, 46

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 25

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 37

First Baptist, Montgomery, 9

New Hope Academy, 65

Vaughn Road Preschool, 67

Frazer Memorial UMC, 79

New Park, 13

W.A. Gayle Planetarium, 69

Grant Joy Learning, 7

Newtopia, 47

Young Living Essential Oils, 70

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www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

MP: Stephanie, when you were working toward nursing school and had a good job with a pharmacy company, you had an opportunity to buy the art studio where you had taken art classes since you were 12. What sparked your interest in changing careers? Stephanie: My changing careers was not my plan... I never wanted to own a business. I wanted to help and care for others. I wouldn’t call it a career change, but a life change. God put me in all the places at the times I needed to be to stand where I am today. When my teacher wanted to sell her lifelong business, I knew in my heart there were going to be kids who would need the building, the art, the therapy to save them (in a sense) as it did me. All that I have experienced in the 14 years of owning this business has been 100% worth it all. It’s not always rainbows and lollipops, and it can be very tough at times doing what I do. It is a constant job every moment, and when I am not at the studio I am still working. I love being able to take my job “on the road” to schools, nursing homes, businesses, churches, etc. And I have been blessed to be able to raise my girls while doing what I love to do.

Stephanie Harrison

MP: As a mom, wife and business owner, how do you keep your energy up to be effective in all of those areas?

MP: As mothers, we can see qualities in our children that others may not recognize immediately. What qualities do you enjoy most about each of your children? Stephanie: I enjoy their uniqueness, how all three have such different personalities. My strong-willed Ella loves to dance and entertain and she is loving and such a care taker. I believe she will grow to be a strong force in the world. My spit fire Zoey is all sports and no dance, and I love this about her. She is fine standing out in her love for all things ball related and I want her to embrace the difference she can make in the world. My determined Maggie is who first made me a mommy. She is wise beyond her years and loves life. She enjoys art like me and she is a leader. She loves to cook and create, and this makes me happy. I love that she does not fear failure but learns from it.

Stephanie: I have to say honestly...prayer. As an adult, I have learned that God holds each day in His hands. He is our rest and our energy. I literally pray for strength and energy, for His guidance. There is no other way I would be able to go through each day without His strength, because I am a Tired Mother!

MP: What is something you’ve gained since becoming a mother? Stephanie: My life is so much richer as a mom. My girls are everything I never knew I needed. In my younger years I was told I may have trouble getting pregnant so having three is beyond anything I ever thought I would have, much less twins. When you become a mom, you lose all that you have known to be yours...your body, your sleep, your time, space, and freedom. But it’s all so worth it because my children give me purpose. They gave me new perspective, made me a better person, and help me each day to be better. They are my greatest accomplishments.

MP: Some would say that a mother’s relationship with her children is the single biggest influence on them. How do you hope to influence your girls? Stephanie: I want my girls to remember our moments together. I want to be a strong example to them that they CAN be and do anything they dream of, and I want them to dream big. I want them to always try and remember to turn to God in every good moment, not just the bad.

MP: Stephanie, thank you for your energy and how you serve your community through art. What advice would you give other moms to stay strong when life gets chaotic?

MP: What have you learned from your parents that has made you the mom you are?

Stephanie: Stop and breathe. This is something I often say to myself: “It’s a season and with each breath the season is passing. Just soak up the laughter, the growth, the tears, the journey.” Seasons don’t last and if you don’t stop to look around amidst all the chaos, you will miss the journey right in front of you.

Stephanie: Well, I have to say I have been extremely blessed with awesome parents. My parents have been married 48 years. They have always worked together to raise me and my brother. I can say that without a doubt my parents have always gone above and beyond to encourage and support me and my brother. My daddy always pushed me to be a strong woman; he is one of my biggest supporters. My mom is the most selfless woman I have ever known. She is a nurturer and extremely giving. Between the two of them I have learned very valuable life lessons to pass to my girls.

Montgomery Parents I November 2018

Stephanie Harrison is the owner of Jasmine Hill Art Gallery. She has been married to Chip for 14 years and they have three daughters: Maggie (11), Ella & Zoey, (twins, 9). She is a devoted daughter, sister, friend, artist, teacher, and cookie designer extraordinaire.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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TA K E S H O N O R S E R I O U S LY A N D B E I N G F I R S T I N L I N E AT L U N C H . [ PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE—THE FORMATIVE YEARS ]

What do MA graduates look like? Diverse in every way, yet they share surprisingly similar qualities. Our idea of excellence? It’s instilling the kinds of qualities a young adult needs to succeed. At MA, our programs are structured, and experiences are designed around creating lifelong learners who challenge themselves. Co-curricular involvement is planned to champion honor, ethics, diversity and service. We do all this—but if you ask our middle schoolers, they may tell you about the importance of signing the honor code pledge. Or that the MA lunchroom spaghetti is the best!

Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y The Pursuit of Excellence in K-12 Education Contact Rachael Gallagher, admissions@montgomeryacademy.org | 334.272.8210 | montgomeryacademy.org

MA05-43295-Parents Back Cover-Nov.indd 1

10/24/18 11:17 AM