River Region Parents November 2019 by KeepSharing

I wish I could see the board instead of trying to read through your vape cloud. - Sarah, 8th Grade

For more information visit AlabamaHealthyTeens.com

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GREAT DAY at STJ! SAINT JAMES SCHOOL INVITES PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS AND PARENTS

Welcome Wednesdays.

We encourage all prospective families to schedule an individual tour of Saint James School during the school day. In addition, parents and children who are interested in Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten at STJ are invited to our Welcome Wednesdays. Parents will take a brief tour while the children enjoy an enrichment classroom activity with a teacher and have arts & crafts time with our high school student ambassadors.

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NOVEMBER 13, 2019, 9:00AM SCIENCE LAB NOVEMBER 20, 2019, 9:00AM TECHNOLOGY LAB DECEMBER 4, 2019, 9:00AM HOLIDAY LIBRARY TIME RSVP: admissions@stjweb.org

Reservations are encouraged at least three school days before the Wednesday you would like to attend.

Save The Date RISING PRE-K3, PRE-K4, & KINDERGARTEN

Open House SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2020 AT 1:30PM RISING 6TH-12TH GRADE

STJ Pop-Up Shop SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2020 AT 3:00PM

Pre-K3−12th Grade

Saint James School

334-273-3021 or STJweb.org

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR LIFE 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, 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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River Region Parents I November 2019

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ADMISSIONS QUESTIONS? Contact Admissions Director Julie Lopez Call 334-318-3777 or email jlopez@montgomerycatholic.org FA I TH . E X CE LLE N CE. S E R VI CE. TH IS IS CATH O LI C. River Region Parents I November 2019

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November2019

Columns

Volume 24 Number 11

8 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Building a Gratitude Habit in Your Home

Get them in the habit of expressing gratitude from an early age.

Avoiding Turbulent Family Gatherings

Seven ways to lessen family conflict during the holidays.

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

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

52 Autauga Education Matters

by Superintendent Spence Agee

58 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis

63 The College Years by Lee Gonet

Holiday Happenings

River Region holiday parades, lights, musicals and more!

Why Team Sports?

Five benefits your child will experience by being on a team.

66 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

80 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

94 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Cleveland â&#x20AC;&#x153;Austinâ&#x20AC;? Gavin is a senior at Saint James School in Montgomery. He is the son of Dr. Cleveland and Mrs. Kelli Gavin and has an older brother, Aubrey. Austin started playing varsity football for Saint James as a defensive back his 11th grade year, and plays his senior year as a running back with over 1,000 rushing yards. He was honored as the WSFA 12 Fever Star Athlete of the Week and The Montgomery Quarterback Club Private School Player of the Week. Austin is also the drummer at his church (Mt. Zion AME Zion Church). He looks forward to studying civil or biomedical engineering in college.

Departments 14 Teacher of the Month 18 School Bits 86 Calendar/Support Groups 96 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote If I’m being honest, I have to admit gratitude doesn’t come as easily for me as I wish it did. And if I’m not careful, I tend to over focus on the hard parts of life and not give enough attention to all the good...all the blessings. Sure, life is full of difficulties, but if I were to sit down and make a list of my “hardships” verses “blessings”, I know the “blessings” column would be ten times as long, at least. Not to mention the blessings that often come from past difficulties. With Thanksgiving upon us this month, it’s an obvious time to consider all for which we have to be grateful. If you, or your kids, find that to be challenging, check out Sarah Lyons article, How to Build an Uplifting Gratitude Habit in Your Home. She discusses ideas for incorporating a thankful attitude throughout the year, and what better month for your family (and mine) to begin? Another holiday related article most of us will need to glean wisdom from is Kimberly Carter Spivey’s, 7 Ways to Lessen Family Conflict During the Holidays. As you get ready to join with extended family around the Thanksgiving or Christmas table, maybe you are already dreading Uncle Bob’s overbearing political commentary, criticism from a certain in-law who makes you feel like you never quite get it right, or a family member who is bent towards losing his or her temper. Here you’ll find tactics to put in place to either avoid conflict altogether or smooth out disputes that do arise. With these tips, here’s hoping we all have a fun, easy-going

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson editor@riverregionparents.com

Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Robert Coggin, MD Richard Dennis Lee Gonet Dr. Charles Ledbetter Sarah Lyons Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dr. Ann Roy Moore Sandi Schwartz Gerry Paige Smith Kimberly Carter Spivey

Cover Photography Judy Barranco www.judybarrancophotography.com

and argument-free Thanksgiving! Keeping with the holiday theme, our 2019 Holiday Happenings Guide kicks off in this month’s issue. From Santa sightings and tree lightings to light displays and parades, the River Region has no shortage of great family-friendly offerings in November and December. So start making plans now to enjoy this holiday season to the fullest with your kiddos! Here’s wishing you a beautiful month of memories being made, blessings being counted and your fill of turkey, dressing and pecan pie!

Publisher Jason Watson jason@riverregionparents.com

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

DeAnne

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Member

River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in River Region 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

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by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

The Power of Yes At a checkup, your doctor will inevitably get out that magical little hammer with the rubber tip and knock it around a few times on your knee to check your reflexes. Hard as you may try – the power of the hammer is not to be messed with. It will win. Try as you might to keep your knee from moving – you will fail and your innate reflexes will be victorious every.single.time. As parents, we have similar reflexes. We can catch a toddler about to fall off of a chair, we can leap into the road and grab a hand faster than any avenger when our little one is in danger, we have supersonic hearing to assess the slightest cough or wheeze in the middle of the night when baby is sick. And these are all great; they help us keep our tiny little humans alive. But I would argue that there are some reflexes that are a bit more unhealthy – namely this: No. Mom can I….No! Dad can I just see…No! Can I…NO! Ahhh the power of no. We can shut down any request, quash any argument, and make our day a whole lot easier just by reflexively and continuously saying no.

Much like you don’t have to tell your knee to kick the doctor, you don’t have to tell your brain to say no. It is a reflex. What? You want to get out the Halloween costumes and play dress up in April? No. You want to get out the cookie mix and bake at 8am on Saturday? No. You want to make a giant fort with all the blankets in the house after I just made all the beds? No. I am the first to raise my hand and say,” Yep, I was a “No-er”. With seven small boys in the house, I think no just seemed safer to me. And I’m not even sure it was a conscious choice. Over time it just became a habit, a reflex. And then there was that one pivotal day when one of them asked for something and I said no. Though I can’t even remember now what his request was, I can still remember the look on his little face. And that day changed everything. I began to intentionally assess my no, and I started practicing the art of listening and giving myself a few lengthy seconds before I respond. Interestingly, what I quickly found out was that so many of my no’s could easily

be yes’s and a yes is a powerful thing in relationship. So although your no may make that moment in your day easier because you just don’t have to deal with the request, trust me on this – that little 6-year-old is very quickly going to be a 16-year-old. And when we lay a foundation of no, no, no – you are losing much needed currency for later on. Now that all seven boys are well into the teen and early adulthood years, my no is powerful. They all fully understand that when we sit down to discuss something and my answer is no – it is because there is some well thought out reasoning behind that. And that means something to them. Although we can’t (and shouldn’t) always say yes to our children, my encouragement to you is to practice the art of the pause. Think. Consider and then respond. Don’t let that little no reflex hammer get the better of you. 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 mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

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Family Holiday Theatre

Suicide Awareness/ Prevention Event

Alabama Frontier Days @ Ft. Toulouse

November 6-9 * 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wetumpka. See the South as it transitioned from Creek Indian lands to military forts and civilian homesteads from 1700 to 1820. $10 admis-sion for adults, per day. $7 admission for children. For more info, visit https://fttoulousejackson.org/frontierdays/.

Saturday, November 16, at 2 & 7 p.m. Sunday, November 17, at 2 p.m. Davis Theatre in Montgomery A Montgomery Holiday Tradition featuring “Favorite Dances of Christmas” & “Messiah” with music by George Frideric Handel accompanied by the Montgomery Chorale. Tickets on sale beginning October 21 at alabamadancetheatre. com or by calling (334) 625-2590. Ticket prices are $15-$30. Photo credit Richard Calmes. Dancers include Emily Efferson, Ahsha Gray, Abigail Perkinson and, in front, Mary Olivia Dudley.

November 13 * 6:30-7:30 p.m. Millbrook Civic Center Robinson Springs UMC and Millbrook First UMC are hosting this evening for area youth, parents and concerned citizens to dialogue about suicide awareness/prevention. Rebecca Ellis, the Cole Ellis Foundation, and Alisa Jones, Hope City Counseling, will bring a powerful message of reality and hope. For more info, call (334) 285-2488 or visit www.hopecitycounseling.com/thecole-ellis-foundation.

Christmas on the Square

November 16 * 9 a.m.4 p.m. The Waters, Pike Road. Fundraiser event that benefits Pike Road Schools. A $5 admission fee will allow you to shop with incredible local businesses all in one place. Come out for a day filled with shopping and family fun. For more info, e-mail christmasonthesquare@yahoo.com.

All is Bright! Tree Lighting Celebration

November 23 * 6-8 p.m. Shoppes at EastChase. The magical evening will feature live music, followed by a community parade filled with more than 50 community organizations. Rejoice in the season’s first snowfall, a fireworks spectacular, and Santa’s grand arrival. This event is complimentary and open to the public! For more info, call (334) 279-6046 or visit www. theshoppesateastchase.com/events/. River Region Parents I November 2019

Millbrook Community Theatre presents A Christmas Carol December 5-15, with 7:30 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturdays and 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. The beloved tale of the penny-pinching miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, and the awakening of his long-forgotten festive spirit is a seasonal tradition for many. The Millbrook Theatre will revisit Charles Dickens’ ghostly tale of the Past, Present, and Future when they present Brian Way’s faithful adaptation of Dickens’ timeless classic. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com/. Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever December 5-29. Written by Barbara Robinson; directed by Greta Lambert. What happens when the rowdiest kids in town find out there are free snacks at Sunday school? They decide to audition for the annual Christmas pageant! It’s disgraceful! Silent night? Not a chance, but sometimes a little joyful noise is just what Christmastime needs. Recommended ages 7+. For tickets or more info, visit asf. net/ or call (334) 271-5353. Wetumpka Depot Players present A Little House Christmas, with public performances December 12, 13, 15, 19 & 20. 7:30 p.m. public performances except a 2 p.m. matinee Dec. 15. Adapted by James DeVita; directed by Kristy Meanor. For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440. Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 December 6-29. Written by Peter Rothstein; directed by Melissa Rain Anderson. All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 relives an astounding moment in history when Allied troops and German soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate the holiday together, sharing food and drink, playing soccer, and singing carols. This dramatic re-telling weaves together firsthand accounts of 30 World War I soldiers with patriotic tunes, trench songs, and Christmas carols. Recommended ages 13+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net/ or call (334) 271-5353. www.riverregionparents.com

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Alabama Nature Center Snore & Explore Camp-In

November 15-16 5 p.m. Friday check-in; 9 a.m. checkout Saturday. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Spend the night in the Discovery Hall where you can explore all of Alabama’s habitats from mountains and caves to the beaches at the coast. Enjoy fishing... take part in animal encounters... go on a night hike... snore along with some of our really wild educational animals, and so much more! $12/person for registration. Recommended minimum age is 6. Minimum 1 adult per 3 children. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Capri Theatre presents Sixteen Candles November 14 at 7:30 p.m. It’s Sam’s 16th birthday, and she’s the only one who remembers. Things are looking up, though, because it turns out popular senior Jake might actually like her. Now, if her sister’s wedding would just stop screwing everything up. Or... maybe... setting things up? Die Hard will show December 6 at 7:30 p.m. A heartwarming tale of Christmas, family, and not letting the bad guys win, Die Hard is just the thing to get you in the mood for the season of giving! For info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Prattville Christmas Tree Lighting

December 6 * Event begins at 5:30 p.m.; tree lighting at 7 p.m. Downtown near Autauga Creek Spillway. Event includes music, dancers and children’s activities. The Prattville Pops and Community Chorus will perform Christmas carols and local dance troupes present dances of the season. Just after the Tree lights up at 7, Santa will arrive. Bring your camera! For more info, visit http://www. prattvilleal.gov/ or call (334) 595-0854.

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One Family

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Tips to Stay Healthy This Winter This is the time of year when wintertime illnesses start to become much more prevalent. Since August, we have seen flu, strep throat, hand-foot- mouth disease, infectious mononucleosis, and RSV infections. These illnesses and others will continue to be in the community for the next several months. You can be exposed at any time without necessarily knowing it. There are two goals to avoid these illnesses: Limit exposure to illnesses as much as possible, and keep your immune system healthy so you are able to fight these infections naturally on your own.

4. Avoid crowds. Obviously, if you are around many other people you will be exposed to more infections. This is especially important for newborns and infants since their immune system is not yet mature enough to protect them . 5. Avoid dry air at home. Heating your home during the winter tends to dry the air. Dry air dries your mucus membranes causing them to crack. This makes it easier for organisms to enter the body causing an illness. Using a humidifier in the home can help prevent this problem.

Ways to limit exposure:

6. Daycare for some families is unavoidable, but care should be taken to lessen the spread of illnesses. Make sure good hygiene practices are used and children who have fever or obvious illnesses are removed.

1. Wash your entire hands and fingers frequently with plain soap and water for 20 seconds. Just the physical action of rubbing the hands together eliminates dirt and grime and also removes most bacteria and viruses. Alcohol hand sanitizers are an alternative if soap and water are not available, but it does not kill all organisms. 2. Keep your hands away from your face as much as possible. This will minimize spreading germs from your hands to your mouth, nose and eyes where most infections originate. 3. Cough or sneeze into your elbow. This will also minimize getting germs on your hands and spreading infections.

7. Getting the flu shot is one of the best ways to avoid or minimize a common and potentially serious winter-time illness. The flu vaccine may be given as young as 6 months old. This is recommended for everyone but especially important for people with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, kidney disease, and sickle cell disease. Ways to keep your immune system healthy: 1. Eat healthy. A diet that includes proper amounts of fruits and vegetables can provide

the vitamins and micronutrients necessary for a healthy immune system. Also, a multivitamin can supplement some of these nutrients, especially vitamin D in the winter. 2. Proper sleep habits are also important in preventing illness. Too many people do not get enough sleep leading to excessive fatigue. This does not allow the body to produce certain proteins that stimulate the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responses to infections. 3. Exercise is important for general health and well-bring. A healthy body is less prone to illnesses. Exercise stimulates white blood cell production which is one of the first lines of defense the body has against infections. At least 30 minutes daily can be helpful. Wintertime illnesses are upon us for the next few months so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time now to be prepared to prevent them as much as possible. 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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River Region Parents I November 2019

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Accredited K3 through 12th Grade Independent College-Preparatory School 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.

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PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES ARE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR THESE SPECIAL EVENTS

GRAND STORY HOUR: Prospective K3, K4, K5 Students, Parents or Grandparents December 6, 2019 at 1:30 PM

K3-K5 OPEN HOUSE: Prospective Parents of K3, K4, K5 Students January 23, 2020 at 6:00 PM

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Kindall Bishop Macon East Academy

taught them to put everything out there for others to judge, and this can be a major problem. Social media provides students with a way to hurt others in the most personal way.” Students spend most of their days with teachers so it is important that teachers care about them as individuals. Bishop offers that to her students. She says, “I motivate my students to learn by caring about them and their education. I hope my passion for learning and my care for others motivates them to learn and care like I do.” Bishop was so honored to be voted for Teacher of the Month. In addition to teaching English, she became a mother this year and also coaches JV and Varsity cheer, so needless to say, she is sometimes overwhelmed! Mrs. Bishop says, “The validation that I am making a difference couldn’t have come at a better time in my life.” She says God, her husband, her family, and her wonderful coworkers help her keep her head straight with all of her responsibilities. Thank you, Mrs. Bishop, and congratulations on being our Teacher of the Month!

For two years, Kindall Bishop has been bringing fresh innovative ideas for learning to her classroom. She has always had a love of helping others learn and her favorite thing about teaching is “seeing the light bulb turn on and the excitement in a student’s eyes when something finally clicks.” She describes her teaching style as “discussion and delegation”. Her strength in teaching is trying to make material fun and relatable for her students because generally “students do not want to learn things when they feel it has no real-life application.” Bishop describes what she hopes she teaching her students, “There is nothing more beneficial to a student than being confident in their knowledge and abilities. I want them to know they can do anything they set their minds to, and instill the values and tools in them they need to be able to do those things on their own. As a teacher, my job is to help students reach a goal, but it is also my job to help them learn to set goals and reach them on their own. This is how we make successful adults.” Today’s teens face many challenges and teachers know this more than anyone. Bishop believes the biggest challenge teens are facing today is drama that comes with social media. She says, “Teens constantly compare themselves to others. Social media has

River Region Parents I November 2019

Kindall Bishop teaches 7th and 8th grade English and is the JV and Varsity cheer coach at Macon East Academy.

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Safety First... and Last

Safety First is more than just a slogan, it is our focus for each Montgomery Public School. Schools are safe. A joint report from the Bureau of Justice/U.S. Department of Education indicates that 99 percent of homicides involving school-aged victims happen somewhere other than at a school. We have plans for emergency scenarios ranging from weather issues to on-campus intruders. Our staff and our students practice responses to those emergencies on a regular basis. We have both MPS security guards and sworn Montgomery Police and Sheriff’s Deputies on various campuses. Every school has a safety plan. Our district-wide plan includes a special team that is pre-

pared to help in case we need to evacuate students from a campus to a neutral site. We practice with that team in case we need to have parents pick up children away from their home school. While we can’t anticipate every possibility, our staff and students understand the importance of being prepared for an emergency on campus. It is critical that our parents understand their role in helping to maintain student safety. Please ensure that any weapons you have at home can’t be accessed by your children. Talk to your child about what is going on at school. Watch for any indication that there is an issue that could escalate into a confrontation with another student. Make certain your child knows never to attempt to solve problems with violence. Let he or she know to talk with you or another adult if he or she feels bullied or uncomfortable at school. It is also very important that children are not left to their own devices after school. MPS and the YMCA Goodtimes program offer after-school care at some

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schools. There are also a number of daycare centers providing transportation to before-or after-school programs. Children who are left on campus or who wander neighborhoods near schools are unsupervised and unsafe. Schools do not have personnel available to supervise students once school dismisses. There are not enough police or security officers available to watch students. It is a parent’s responsibility to ensure his or her child is safe and supervised before and after school hours. Check with your child’s school if you need before-or after-school care to see what is available. We are partners in student safety. It is critical we all take our roles seriously to ensure our children are protected.

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

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

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academy Cum Laude Chapter Inducts New Members

Since 1969, The Montgomery Academy has honored academic excellence by awarding membership in Cum Laude Society to its highest-achieving students. The Montgomery Academy Chapter of the Cum Laude Society was chartered in 1969 and remains one of only three chapters in the state of Alabama. The Cum Laude Society recognizes academic achievement in secondary schools for the purpose of promoting excellence (arete), justice (dike), and honor (time). The major objective is to recognize the highest levels of academic excellence based on grade-point average and level of academic courses taken. Student membership cannot exceed the top 20% of the senior class. During the Academic Recognition Ceremony held recently, 10% of the senior class was inducted; the remaining 10% will be inducted during Awards Night in May. Students inducted in September were: Sofie Behr, Cyprian Dumas, Martha Ernest, Russell Hughes, Jiwon Lee, William Robertson and Kelly Yoon.

Macon East Attends Career Expo

Macon East Academy eighth-grade students attended the annual career expo at Southern Union Community College. The two-day event welcomed more than 4,000 attendees with exhibitors from many area colleges and businesses. The interactive booths included hands-on learning activities in the fields of communication and information technology, agriculture, hospitality and tourism, education and training, architecture, construction, manufacturing, healthcare, public service, as well as energy and utilities. The eighthgraders enjoyed a fun day of learning and exploring different career opportunities.

Success Unlimited Academy Visits the Alabama Archives and History

Middle school students in Pam Watson’s Achievers class enjoyed a recent field trip to the Alabama Department of Archives and History in historic downtown Montgomery. Watson’s students were greeted and paired with a docent who interacted with the students and led them on their tour. The museum provided a visual, as well as, hands-on experience of important Alabama history. “The Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH), founded in 1901, was the nation’s first publicly funded, independent state archives agency,” said Rebecca Lapczynski Hébert, an independent scholar. “Located in Montgomery, ADAH identifies, preserves, and makes accessible records and artifacts of enduring historical value to the state and serves as the official repository for records created by state agencies. For more than a century, the department has followed its core tenets of advocating for the preservation of the state’s historical resources and promoting education, specifically regarding Alabama’s history.” The class enjoyed this educational experience and look forward to their next field trip. River Region Parents I November 2019

Park Crossing Seniors Take Field Trip To Vote In Mayoral Election

Park Crossing High School students learned a civics lesson in just about the best way they could—by voting in an election. Stephanie Wilson, a 12th-grade counselor, joined seniors for the “PC to the Polls” field trip. The school sponsored the trip, with more than 30 seniors taking a bus to vote in the Montgomery mayoral election. www.riverregionparents.com

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Montgomery County Schools

Brew Tech Students Tour Aeromedical Squadron

The Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School Emergency Services class toured the 908th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron at Maxwell Air Force Base. During their visit, students learned about the mission of the squadron, the team members required and some of the requirements and educational benefits of military medicine. In addition, they learned about the equipment and technology required to fly patients around the globe. They wrapped up their visit with a tour of a C-130 Hercules aircraft configured for patient evacuation.

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Trinity Seniors Awarded at DYW

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Three Trinity Presbyterian School seniors participated in the Distinguish Young Woman program and all three received awards! Taylor Griggs was first runner-up, Lauren Pace was Top 10 and Anna Hixon won the Fitness Award.

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Montgomery Catholic Robotics Teams Qualify for State

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s 2019-2020 robotics competition season is in full swing, and so far, two teams, “Happy Little Accidents” and “The Sevies,” have qualified to compete in the Alabama state competition in the spring. In the 2018-2019 season, three RoboKnights robots earned spots in the state competition. Each robot had a strong showing at the state level and “Lost in the Ross” ended up as a tournament finalist and advanced to the VEX Robotics World Championships that were held in Louisville, Kentucky April 24-27. The next season’s challenge was announced during Worlds: Tower Takeover. For the RoboKnights, planning began immediately, starting their first builds in May and continuing throughout the summer, even while school was out of session. Tower Takeover requires robots to place stacks of colored cubes into the corners of the playing field and to place single cubes into “towers” in the middle of the playing field that serve as point multipliers. Robots work in alliances of two to try to score the most points against another alliance of two robots. Since it is early in the season, most teams have focused on completing one task only—either stacking cubes for base points or picking up and placing cubes for point multipliers—and allying with a robot who completes the complementing task. “We have a grabber robot right now, but we’re working on a stacker robot, too,” said Harrison Vaughn. His team, The Sevies, comprised only of 7th-grade students who are in their first year of robot competition, has qualified for the state competition. Happy Little Accidents is a stacker robot, and the two allied at the recent Bots at the Fair competition at the Alabama National Fair with great results. The score in the final round was 53-10. Montgomery Catholic will host the River Region Tower Takeover Qualifying Tournament on November 2 and the River Region Tower Takeover Qualifying Tournament II on February 15. The competitions will be held in Montgomery Catholic’s new gym, which features stadium seating that gives spectators a good view of the playing fields from the stands.

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

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

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BTW Junior Published In Literary Journal

Booker T. Washington Magnet High creative writing junior Lee Gaines has had a poem accepted for publication in the literary journal Blue Marble Review. The quarterly literary journal showcases the work of young writers between the ages of 13 and 22. Gainesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poem will appear in the December 2019 issue.

River Region Parents I November 2019

Montgomery Academy AP Art History Class Visits Jasmine Hill Gardens in Wetumpka

Montgomery Academy students in Ms. Dealâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AP Art History class had an opportunity to visit Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museum after studying a chapter on Greek art. The tour was led by Jim Inscoe. Students were able to see replicas of works that they have studied and will be on the AP exam in the spring. Cam Holmes and Susannah Blount mentioned that the trip was so much more interesting with an understanding of the time period and the works they were seeing. Plus, viewing them in person gave them a deeper appreciation for the sculptures.

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Cornerstone Classical Houses Create Banners

The four Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy “Houses” were challenged by Headmaster John Bradley to create a House Banner which reflected not only the House itself, but also this year’s school-wide theme of unity. The completed banners were displayed at this year’s Fall Family Fellowship. Pastoral staff from Morningview Baptist Church served as judges and declared Esther House’s banner the winner!

ACA Student Attends West Point Program

This summer, Alabama Christian Academy senior Judson Hardin was selected from more than 6,000 applicants to attend the Summer Leadership Experience at West Point. The oneweek program was limited to 1,000 high school juniors from across the United States. During this immersive experience, Hardin participated in academic classes, military training, physical fitness training and intramural athletics. This particular week is made available to help students become more informed about college selection decisions. 23

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Montgomery County Schools

Saint James Middle School Football Champs

The Saint James Middle School football team capped off another undefeated season (7-0) following a 30-6 win over Catholic in the finale. Braxton Berrey, KJ Jackson, Clint Houser and Caden Anderson each scored touchdowns for the Trojans while Pruitt Conner had an interception in the victory. “The offense seemed to click on all cylinders and got better throughout the year—but what was really impressive is that our first team defense only allowed four touchdowns all season...they were the anchor of this team!” said Head Coach Keith Lucky. “It was a great TEAM effort and I am so proud of all of them!” The Trojans Middle School football team went undefeated and claimed the championship in 2018 and repeated the feat in 2019. The Middle School program has now won 14 consecutive football games, which is a school record.

River Region Parents I November 2019

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MEA Student Attends ALFA Youth Leadership Macon East Academy sophomore McKinnon Hammonds attended the ALFA Youth Leadership Conference September 30-October 1 at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana. State Senator Cam Ward, along with many other guest speakers, encouraged attendees of the importance of “Ag” vocations. Students from around the state enjoyed team building activities and leadership training sessions.

BrewTech Installs New HOSA Officers

Brewbaker Technology Magnet High held a candlelighting ceremony to honor its new officers in HOSA - Future Health Professionals. HOSA, formerly known as Health Occupation Students of America, is an organization for future health industry professionals. BrewTech’s new officers are, from left, Parliamentarian Takiyah Flynn, Vice President Shannon Porter, Treasurer Jodi Chen, Historian Aysha Mack, Secretary Angelina Unich and President Cambrye’ Rollins-Griffin.

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Personalized Education That Makes A Difference Academics

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Success Unlimited Academy

Upper Campus | Grades 9-12 | 2328 Fairlane Drive

Lower Campus | Grades K4-8 | 4500 Vaughn Road  Elite Athletic Academy | Grades 9-12 | 4500 Vaughn Road

For admissions, call (334) 213-0803 25

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Montgomery County Schools

Catholic Elementary Campus Choirs Inspire Students

AP Scholars at ACA

The following awards were recently bestowed to these Alabama Christian Academy students: Judd Hardin, Elizabeth Adornato and Logan Sanford (above) were recognized as AP Scholars. Adornato was also named a National Merit Commended Scholar. Below, Madison Davis was recognized as an AP Scholar with Honors.

ECA Celebrates Johnny Appleseed Day

Evangel Christian Academy’s elementary classes recently celebrated the birthday of Johnny Appleseed, also known as John Chapman. The students discovered that Johnny Appleseed planted apple trees throughout America and was a missionary to the Native Americans. The students discussed how apples are grown and harvested. They also enjoyed tasting various types of apples. During lunch, the children had a birthday party complete with an apple tree birthday cake. River Region Parents I November 2019

Each week at every Montgomery Catholic campus, the students attend Mass together, and having music is important to the order of worship. Every campus has a choir that helps lead that music ministry, comprised entirely of students. At the St. Bede and Holy Spirit elementary campuses, third- through sixth-graders prepare, rehearse and perform the music for Mass, which is attended by the students and the wider community. Mass is not the only place where the children perform. The St. Bede campus choir takes its show on the road and performs at the Junior League of Montgomery’s annual Holiday Market. The students entertain shoppers and get them in the mood for the Christmas season. The Holy Spirit choir visits the Montgomery Public Schools Children’s Center and performs a holiday concert for the students there, bringing some much-needed joy when the weather gets chilly. Sixth-grade teacher Mary Pears leads the choir at the St. Bede campus. While she frets every summer about the number of sixth-graders who move up to middle school, the fall always brings a new group of eager singers. “After school ends in May, I just pray that we will be able to fill the choir when school starts,” said Pears. “Year after year, I am never disappointed.” At Holy Spirit, kindergarten teacher and choir leader Ellie Burden welcomes students into the choir after Labor Day so that new students have a chance to hear the choir sing and get excited about joining. One additional architectural feature of the church also spurs interest. “They love going into the choir loft,” said Burden. “I think that is a huge bonus for our kids.” Some students need no convincing at all to join the choir. Third-grade student Estrella Strobbe, who is originally from Mexico, said that she was hooked from the first time she heard the choir sing. “I first started singing when I lived in Mexico,” Strobbe said. “After we moved to America and I started at Holy Spirit, I heard the choir and now I’m working on my own voice!” The choir is an extracurricular activity that teaches students about melody, harmony, rhythm, and basic music literacy. “We learn a lot about different parts of songs, like ‘fancy endings,’” said St. Bede fifth- grader Frances Bach. Codas, or “fancy endings” as Pears like to call them, add a special flourish to conclude many songs in a special and memorable way. Some students contribute to the choir with talents other than their voices. Holy Spirit fourth-grader Ethan Levanda works with the soundboard up in the choir loft. “I have to wear special headphones that allow me to hear what the people down below hear,” he said. “If it’s too low, I turn it up. If it’s too loud, I turn it down. My job is to make it sound good.” 26

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MEA Second Grade Creates Family Trees

The second grade at Macon East Academy recently completed a unit on families, learning how traditions, relatives, ancestors and keepsakes are all part of a familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history. Each student created his own family tree, interviewed a family member, and shared a family keepsake as the culminating project. The annual 2ndgrade family tree project is always fun and educational, and the students love sharing their family keepsake or heirloom and learning more about their ancestors.

Montgomery Academy Cheerleaders Perform at Auburn

Eight Montgomery Academy cheerleaders traveled to Auburn to participate in the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) Spirit Day. They were invited by UCA for their top performance at camp this summer. The girls practiced a routine on their own all week, traveled to Auburn early, practiced with 150 other cheerleaders, and then got to perform on the field at halftime of the Auburn vs Mississippi State game! The cheerleaders who participated were Margaret Gowan, An Wilkes Cavanaugh, Lucie Parker, Camille Snead, Frannie Brazil, Isabella Hill, Josie Aronov and Elisabeth Spencer.

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Montgomery County Schools

Seven Blount Students Win Awards at Alabama National Fair

Blount Elementary had seven students awarded for their artwork at the Alabama National Fair: Rebekah Kim, Estella Salvador, Hana Yu, Dulce Vitolo, Fatima Gul, Minchae Kang and Bryar Butler.

Macon East Plans Nursery Rhyme Parade

The K3 and K4 classes at Macon East Academy recently participated in a Nursery Rhyme Parade visiting the lower and upper school grades and the school office. Dressed as their favorite nursery rhyme characters, the K3 and K4 students enjoyed the parade and all of the nursery rhymes that were shared. Mrs. Mills, Mrs. Adams and Mrs. Taylor were so proud of the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; costumes and each oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rendition of their favorite nursery rhyme.

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Saint James School PINKS OUT

In celebration of Homecoming 2019, Saint James School PINKED OUT October 17 for breast cancer awareness. Each year, the high school students select the theme and dressup days for the week of Homecoming. One day has a service-oriented component assigned to it and this year the school tied Pink Day to the Joy to Life Foundation. “We encourage our students to be mindful of those in need in our community – and the Joy to Life Foundation is a wonderful demonstration of that effort,” said Elizabeth Hawke, Saint James School advancement director. “Joy to Life raises money and awareness in our area and provides mammograms and other life saving screenings to the medically underserved right here in our community. We had a fabulous time with the foundation founders and volunteer coordinator when they came to STJ. They greeted our students, parents, and faculty as they arrived that morning and spread smiles across our campus. It was a wonderful treat for our students – not just to wear pink, but to connect faces, names, and a cause to their service work.” Joy and Dickie Blondheim, co-founders of the Joy to Life Foundation, and their car tag mascot (also known as the foundation’s volunteer coordinator Melissa Orr) greeted faculty and students as they drove through carpool line. They handed out Joy to Life bracelets, chatted with students and parents, and collected donations for the foundation. There are several carpool drop-off points on campus, so the middle school SGA joined the schoolwide effort and manned locations around campus decked out in Joy to Life gear. From pre-school to 12th grade, Saint James PINKED OUT! “Saint James really did this right,” said Dickie Blondheim. “Every student and faculty member I saw was wearing pink—which is amazing in itself. And everyone was prepared to make a donation in honor of breast cancer awareness. What a wonderful lesson to teach the students— that wearing pink is fun, but there really is a greater purpose to Pinking Out.” Joy Blondheim added, “It’s been a while since I was in a carpool line and I loved sharing a good morning greeting with so many smiling faces. I was so touched by the many survivor stories people shared with me, and I must say, the sea of pink at Saint James was just precious! Pink hair, pink socks, pink bows, pink shirts—from every boy and girl. I just loved starting my day at STJ!” From left are STJ Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore, with Joy to Life co-founders Dickie and Joy Blondheim, the foundation’s Volunteer Coordinator Melissa Orr, and a group of high school students on Pink Day of Homecoming 2019.

SUA Art Students Win Awards at Alabama Fair

Each fall the Alabama National Fair opens its gates to the River Region residents to enjoy rides, concerts, competitions and of course, fair food! Many visitors to the fair are exhibitors, or competition submissions. The Montgomery Art Guild sponsored its 4th Annual Tri-County Art Competition at the Alabama National Fair. A large part of the exhibition are works by students in the tri-county area. Barbara Grimes’s art students at Success Unlimited Academy’s were busy the first weeks of the school year preparing works to be entered in the competition. Several students were awarded ribbons for their submitted artwork. The following students won awards: Sydney Beams, 2nd place; Angela Yoon, 2nd place; Charity Jenkins, 3rd place; Maria Ruiz, 3rd place and Honorable Mention; Keshun Oates and Tyniah Johnson, Honorable Mention. Maria Ruiz’s work is shown.

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Churchill Student Earns Taekwondo Yellow Belt Churchill Academy student Nasira Seraaj-Blanche received her yellow belt in Taekwondo this fall. She has studied Taekwondo since February under the instruction of Master Jin Park at Tiger Park Taekwondo. Master Park is a 5th Degree Black Belt by World Taekwondo Federation and by the American Taekwondo Foundation, and Seraaj-Blanche says that she really enjoys the games Master Park uses to teach the skills she needs to learn. She says that she “loves everything about Taekwondo.”

Cornerstone Classical Introduces K4 Program

This fall, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy introduced a K4 program. Jennifer Butler, who previously taught at a Montgomery preschool for more than four years, spent two years researching and developing curriculum for the program. The goal for Cornerstone’s K4 is to “teach students about God and His creation, classroom procedures, introductory phonics and math and fine motor skills.” The K4 program is classical in its methodology, using songs, chants and sound-offs to teach and aid in memorization. Recently our K4 and kindergarten students visited the Alabama Archives where they enjoyed “Grandma’s Attic.” River Region Parents I November 2019

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Floyd Middle Magnet Spanish Students Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

Floyd Middle Magnet Spanish Club hosted “A Taste of the Spanish Market Part 4” to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 10. A big thanks to Cucos, San Marcos, D Road Cafe, El Patron, Chappy’s and Publix for their generous donations. Students had the opportunity to sample authentic Spanish food from different Spanish-speaking countries, such as the delicious chicken quesadilla from Mexico and the famous “cachapas” from Venezuela. The event also included music and artwork from students in Jacqueline Henley’s class.This cultural enrichment was filled with fun and excitement while the students gained knowledge of the Spanish culture.

MPS Math Scavenger Hunt Adds Up to Fun

It was “All About Math” at Eastdale Mall for the Montgomery Public Schools Scavenger Hunt, where 84 parents and students showed up for math-themed fun. Students and their parents searched the mall to find answers to clues written in the form of math word problems. All participants were entered into a drawing for a chance to win an ice rink party at the mall for up to 25 people. Winners were Braedon McCants, second grade, McMillan International Academy; Jahmal Gooden, third grade, Halcyon Elementary; and Kailee Johnson, sixth grade, McKee Middle.

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Montgomery County Schools

BTW Students Have Artworks Chosen for Exhibit

Several Booker T. Washington photography and visual arts students had artworks selected for the “Life in Pictures” Artworks exhibition at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Their artworks were selected in connection with the Jacob Lawrence: History, Labor, and Life Exhibit.

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Author Visits ECA

The students at Evangel Christian Academy recently welcomed author Stephanie Dean, who shared her newest book Buster’s Braces from her book series, “Greenville Animal Friends.” The students were excited to meet a real author. Several students bought copies of Dean’s book and were excited to have her personally autograph them.

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River Region Parents I November 2019

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SUA’s Elite Athletes Try Hands at Life Skills

Montgomery Catholic Marching Band Celebrates Successes

Montgomery Catholic may have a relatively young band program, but it has come a long way in its short history. In 2010 when Director of Bands Alex Johnson first started at Montgomery Catholic, the marching band only had 12 members. Nicknamed “The Dirty Dozen,” the small but dedicated group of musicians kept the fans entertained throughout the football season. Today, the marching band has more than 60 musicians and auxiliary who take the field at every varsity football game, both at home and away. Not only has the band increased in number year after year, but it also has accumulated countless accolades and recognition. Led by Johnson and his band director wife, Kristine, and assisted by interns from local universities, the program has flourished in recent years, both on the field and on the stage. In addition to playing at every football game, the marching band also performs in competitions in the area. Since they only participate in two contests during the season, the students feel a lot of pressure to ensure their performance is flawless. In the past two years alone, the band has won “Overall Best in Class” at each competition they have been to, and they also picked up several category awards, such as for auxiliary, drumline, pit percussion, woodwinds and brass. For the past five appearances at the Jacksonville State Contest of Champions, the Montgomery Catholic drum major has won “Best in Class,” including this year’s drum major, senior Bobby Crawford. On top of the demanding marching schedule, the band classes also have been preparing for the upcoming fall and winter concert season. While all Montgomery Catholic bands, grades 5 through 12, will be performing their annual Christmas concert on December 5, the high school band will also take the stage for an exhibition show on November 5. This is the first time that the high school band has done an additional show in the fall, but Johnson believes that the high school band needs another opportunity to perform. The Montgomery Catholic band program has come leaps and bounds from the Dirty Dozen days and now requires a larger, more specialized facility. The renovated Fr. Pat Delahunty Gym will have classrooms for band and chorus, individual practice rooms, instrument storage, and offices for staff.

As part of their life skills education, Elite Athletic Academy students from Success Unlimited were challenged to create a meal from items they might find in their dorm room or apartment. As they head to college or the work world following high school, these students will find that strong life skills are essential to their daily life. The challenge for the day consisted of a thirty-minute window to create a delicious and edible meal using the ingredients available to them and the use of only a microwave. A cash prize was awarded to the team creating the meal with the best presentation, taste and time management. The judges chose the winning menu which included Vienna sausage cracker appetizers, chili cheese dip and chips, a sandwich, tomato and orange slices, and pie with chocolate melted on top to finish this delicious five-course “college dorm” meal!

Winter Wonderfest Sunday, December 8; 2–4 pm

Come celebrate the wonder of the season and enjoy winter-themed art projects, a dress up photobooth, and performances by holiday choirs. Learn more at mmfa.org/. FREE

Spons ored by BBV A

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Montgomery County Schools

Butterflies Welcomed in the Macon East Garden

Ms. Lawrenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kindergarten class at Macon East Academy came upon a butterfly laying eggs on the fennel in the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden in early September. The students have visited the garden each day to watch the eggs hatch into caterpillars, see the caterpillars grow larger and larger, and observe each caterpillar create its chrysalis. The students have anxiously awaited the emergence of the butterflies. Recently they witnessed them break out of their chrysalises and fly about in the MEA Outdoor Classroom. Not only did the students learn a great science lesson, but Lawrence applied many math and reading skills to the experience.

MPS Parent Visitation Keeps Parents Updated

Montgomery Public Schools holds Parent Visitation Day every year to give parents the chance to visit with teachers and find out how their children are doing in class. It is a professional development day, meaning teachers show up but students have the day off. Still, a lot of parents chose to bring children with them as they visited the teachers. The Jackson family stopped in the hall on their way to visit a teacher at Carr Middle. From left are Misty, Corey and William Jackson.

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Trinity Presents Homecoming Court

Trinity Presbyterian School’s homecoming court was presented at halftime of the football game October 18. Seventhgrade attendant was Mary Townsend Sanders; eighth-grade attendant was Kensley Williamson; ninth-grade attendant was Gray Brendle; tenth-grade attendant was Ella Grace Lowe; eleventh-grade attendant was Mary Elizabeth Hill; and twelfthgrade attendants were Miller Williams and Kate Hall. Homecoming Queen was Ellie Slawson. The court was announced at a pep rally held the night before the game.

Montgomery Academy Fifth Grade Studies Flight and Rockets

As part of their kick-off of the Flight & Rocketry unit, Montgomery Academy fifth-graders have been discussing the factors involved, such as air resistance. They climbed up high on the playground equipment and released homemade parachutes. The students determined that the best results came from increased surface areas–larger parachute canopies–and low wind speed.

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Saint James School Celebrates Homecoming

Saint James senior Sarah Elizabeth Rice, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eric Rice, was crowned Saint James School’s 2019 Homecoming Queen in halftime ceremonies during STJ’s October 18 match-up against the Prattville Christian Academy Panthers. The Queen’s court included freshman attendant GeorgeAnn Killough, sophomore attendant Emma Sherlin, junior attendant Tamya Bruce and senior attendant Emilee Arrington. Queen’s attendants were seniors Seanna Brooks and Lucy Edwards. Crown bearers were Saint James kindergarten girls whose parents are Saint James alumni. The 2019 crown bearers were Taylor Vivian Aday, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Justin Clay (Alexis Keene) Aday; Austyn Elizabeth Allred, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Craig (Ashley Monfee) Allred; Evelyn Mikell Bond, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick David (Kimberly Mikell) Bond; Baylor Mae Gallops, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Veal (Jennifer Sims) Gallops; Kinley Madison Hardy, daughter of Ms. Katherine Michelle Rudd and Mr. Charles Gregory Hardy, Jr.; Sutter Mackenzie Morgan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Joseph (Kelli Sutter) Morgan; and Darla Michelle (Mila) Trussell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Tucker (Monica Michelle Cobb) Trussell. After a schoolwide homecoming parade, the queen was announced during the afternoon pep rally; Queen Sarah and her court were presented during halftime ceremonies at the homecoming football game that evening escorted by their fathers. Saint James Board of Trustees Chair Barry Prim presented Queen Sarah a silver bowl per school tradition, and Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore crowned the 2019 Queen with the assistance of the seven crown bearers. The Trojans decidedly won the night’s game against the Panthers, 55-13. Above, back row from left, STJ’s Homecoming Court included freshman attendant GeorgeAnn Killough escorted by Jon Killough; junior attendant Tamya Bruce escorted by Rodney Hartley; Queen’s Attendant Seanna Brooks escorted by Tony Brooks; Board of Trustees Chair Barry Prim; 2019 Queen Sarah Rice escorted by Eric Rice; Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore; Queen’s Attendant Lucy Edwards escorted by Charlie Edwards; senior attendant Emilee Arrington escorted by Glenn Crumpton; and sophomore attendant Emma Sherlin escorted by Stan Sherlin. Front from left, kindergarten crown bearers were Evelyn Bond, Sutter Morgan, Mila Trussell, Taylor Aday, Kinley Hardy, Baylor Gallops and Austyn Allred. River Region Parents I November 2019

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Montgomery Zoo Visits Catholic Middle School

Montgomery Catholic’s middle school students were treated to an afternoon with the zoo without having to leave campus. Valerie Castanza, Danielle Crowe and their team from the Montgomery Zoo brought some furry, feathered and scaly critters to teach the students about the natural habitats and behaviors of different animals. The kids got to meet some animals that are native to Alabama—Desoto, a gopher tortoise; Helena, a great horned owl; Rusti, a screech owl; and Phoenix, a red-tailed hawk. These are all animals that could be seen in the wild in the Southeastern United States, and unfortunately, several of them have made their way into the care of the zoo because of injuries sustained from encounters with humans. The zoo crew also brought some friends from Down Under:Kook, a blue kookaburra, and Anala, a dingo. While it was a fun presentation, the students also learned about the impact that humans have on our animal friends through the use of pesticides, littering and improper care of pets. They learned a lot about the personal stories of each of the animal ambassadors and ways they can help with the zoo through the Zooteen program.

Alabama Dance Theatre presents

JD Alum Supports U.S. Navy in Guam

A 2018 Jefferson Davis High School graduate and Montgomery native is providing a critical maintenance capability to the U.S. Navy’s submarine force in the Pacific as part of a hybrid crew of sailors and civilian mariners working aboard the expeditionary submarine tender, USS Frank Cable. Seaman Carlos Brown is a boatswain’s mate aboard the Guam-based submarine tender, one of only two such ships in the U.S. Navy. The Frank Cable and its crew provides maintenance and resupply capabilities both in port and at sea.

Saturday | November 16 | 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm Sunday | November 17 | 2:00 pm Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts

Tickets: alabamadancetheatre.com Info: 334-625-2590 Wells Fargo | Kiwanis Club of Montgomery | Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama Pickwick Antiques & Montgomery Antiques and Interiors | Central Alabama Community Foundation WSFA 12 News | Cumulus Broadcasting This performance is funded in part by the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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Montgomery County Schools

Churchill Academy Celebrates World Dyslexia Day

Churchill Academy celebrated World Dyslexia Day October 15 by “Redeeming Red” with local non-profit, Roundtable Solutions. The school wore red to bring about dyslexia awareness and to redeem red as a power color for students with dyslexia instead of the red that has historically been associated with the graded papers of dyslexic students. Churchill furthers the Redeeming Red cause each day of the year by only using green pens to grade papers, as the color green is associated with growth and learning. Redeeming Red and World Dyslexia Day were created by Churchill Academy student Beau Terry in 2013 as a chance to celebrate students who have dyslexia. The date of 10/15 was chosen as World Dyslexia Day to bring together October as Dyslexia Awareness Month and the statistic that 1 in 5 have dyslexia. Students and families had the opportunity to see the RSA Tower and other buildings in downtown Montgomery glowing in red that evening also, to celebrate them across the Montgomery skyline.

Johnny Appleseed Day

On September 26, Johnny Appleseed made his annual visit to Macon East Academy students in the pre-K building. Johnny read a book about his life, teaching the young students how he introduced apple trees throughout much of the United States. An American legend, Johnny Appleseed was known for his kindness, generosity and leadership in conservation. His journey west began in 1792, and Johnny became known for his vagabond attire which included bare feet and a cooking pot on his head. For many years, Macon East students have enjoyed a visit from a senior student clad as Johnny Appleseed. This year, Johnny was portrayed by Jake Wyrosdick, who shared apples with the students after reading his story.

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Trinity Senior Attends Astronomy Camp in Arizona

Parents Join in for PE at Morningview

Moms, dads and more got in on the fun at Morningview Elementary during Take Your Parent to PE Week. This is a campaign to involve parents in their children’s physical education programs and to encourage parents and students alike to be physically active all year. River Region Parents I November 2019

Trinity Presbyterian School senior Riley Wuokko spent a week this summer in Tucson at the University of Arizona’s Advanced Teen Astronomy Camp. He was one of 30 students selected based on an essay he submitted. During the week, Wuokko was given the chance to use research-class telescopes, including the largest binocular telescope in the world and also a radio telescope used in creating the first images of a black hole! His group “special project” which theorized colonizing the planet Mars as a way to secure the “future of humanity” if Earth’s habitability became severely diminished, was selected for the Best Project award. During his week in Tucson, Wuokko had the opportunity to listen to several lectures on topics such as galaxy and star formation, radio astronomy, and light and other forms of electromagnetic radiation. Other interesting activities the campers engaged in were stargazing, with and without telescopes, shooting a liquid nitrogen cannon, and making liquid nitrogen ice cream. Wuokko also found time to take pictures with a “traditional” camera on and around Mount Lemmon where they spent most of their time. 38

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Tie and Doll Contributes To MPS Food Program The nonprofit organization Tie and Doll has made a lot of great contributions to the children of Montgomery County, including a donation delivered at a recent Montgomery County Board of Education meeting. Tie and Doll Executive Director Traci Howell presented a $900 check for the MPS Backpack Food Program. This is in addition to the more than 3,500 pounds of food Tie and Doll had already contributed through the Stuff the Truck Campaign. The Backpack Food Program serves students throughout the district who struggle with food insecurity.

BTW Photography Students Visit Kentuck Art Festival

Booker T. Washington Magnet High photography students once again made the trek to the Kentuck Festival of the Arts in Northport. This was BTW’s 16th year participating as the only high school to exhibit alongside more than 250 adult artists from all over the U.S. The students and teacher Emily Thomas had to brave the rain this year, but it was worth it by all accounts. Senior Gia Paolini was even featured in a local television broadcast about the festival.

Truth, Life, Calling

Veritas Vita Vocatio

Eastwood’s educational philosophy is committed to discipling young people through academics so as to foster a love for learning and a passion for Jesus Christ. Eastwood Christian School offers a classical, college preparatory program. Our purpose is to: • • •

Strengthen students in the TRUTH

Encourage students in the abundant LIFE

Equip students for the CALLING that Christ has placed on their lives

Eastwood Christian School serves students from K4 through the 12th grade. The extracurricular activities offered are middle and upper school sports, art classes, piano and guitar lessons, drama, and academic clubs such as Beta Club and Science Olympiad. Dual enrollment opportunities for juniors and seniors are available. Eastwood Christian School | 1701 E. Trinity Blvd | Montgomery, AL 36106

Open House for Prospective Families (K4-12) January 13, 2020 | 6:30pm

For more information visit eastwoodschool.org, or call 334.272.8195.

Eastwood Christian School admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions

programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

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ACA Marching Band Attends Blackwater Marching Festival

The Alabama Christian Academy Eagles Marching Band competed in the Blackwater Marching Festival in Milton, Fla. The band received the following awards: Drum Major Superior, Color Guard - Superior, Drum Line - Superior and Band - Excellent.

Eastwood Learns About Aquatic Sciences Eastwood Christian School students enjoyed hosting a visitor, Dr. David Rouse, who is a retired director of School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, as part of their study of vertebrates. Rouse brought a live fish for the students to see and touch. The fish was not cooperative and ended up on the floor flopping around. Sixth-graders learned that fish are one of the most easily grown sources of food.

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River Region Parents I November 2019

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STJ Recognizes Citizens of the Quarter Saint James elementary students were recognized as Citizens of the Quarter in early October. These students were chosen by their teachers and are recognized as being consistently kind, helpful, respectful, and responsible in all of their classes. They set a positive example for their friends through their behavior and actions. 1st Grade: Jackson Muller & Anne Helen Hawke; Anastasia Jordan & Jakob Johnson; and Levi Toussaint & Amelia Rasmussen; 2nd Grade: Frank Chinoski & Piper Milligan; Aniketh Tirmalasetty & Ellie McKinney; and Joseph Osing & Callie Sellers; 3rd Grade: Waylon King & Lucy Park; Elliette Barton & Jesie Chinoski; and Alex McIlwain & Vara York; 4th Grade: Wilson Aman & Reese Broughton; Brannen Stewart & Joud Al-Ansari; and Jens Conner Johnson & Emily Darby; and 5th Grade: Luke McLendon & Olive Parvin; Will Steinwinder & Waverley Milligan; and Zach Rains & Lily Stanford.

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Cornerstone Holds Fall Family Fellowship

Every fall Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy families gather for an evening of fun and food. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fall Family Fellowship was held September 27 at the school which meets on the campus of Morningview Baptist Church. After enjoying hot dogs, Conecuh sausage and Italian Ice, attendees spent time in prayer for the school. Prayers were led by, and offered for, students, faculty, the board and families.

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Montgomery Academy Mock Trial Competes in Atlanta

The Montgomery Academy Mock Trial Team recently competed in the Empire Mock Trial Competition held in Atlanta. Team members were: Brystol Habermacher, Sofie Behr, Mary Virginia Huffaker, Laura Stanton Strickler, Kareena Singh, Maggie Kinney, Holden Habermacher, Alisha Singh, Bryant McLendon, Martha Ernest, Charlie Hill and Easton Stricker. Behr earned a top ten attorney award at the 32-team competition!

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2019 2011

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River Region Parents I November 2019

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Montgomery Catholic Celebrates Homecoming

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School held its annual Homecoming varsity football game October 24. Immediately following the 30-0 victory against Headland High School, Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar crowned the 2019 Homecoming Queen and King, Anna Michael DuBois and Minh Tan Vo. Before the game, Ceasar, along with Principal Justin Castanza and Athletic Director Daniel Veres, honored the members of the 2019 girls’ indoor and outdoor track and field state championship team, along with their coaches, and presented them with State Championship rings. The next evening, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School welcomed all alumni home with Mass, hosted by the class of 1988 and said by Father Den Irwin, Class of 1988. Immediately following, alumni and their families enjoyed a special alumni dinner in the new gym’s Partners in Catholic Education (PICE) Knights Arena. Alumni and guests, including several who were celebrating reunions, enjoyed a delicious meal from Jim-N-Nick’s while catching up with old classmates. The week leading up to the Homecoming football game was full of activities and excitement, including themed spirit days and the high school field day. On Thursday evening, the first-ever elementary Squire Walk was held. Students from the St. Bede and Holy Spirit campuses processed through the inflatable helmet to greet the Big Knights varsity football team as they took the field. A shut-out victory over Headland capped off the Knights’ perfect 10-0 season, a feat not seen since 1979. After the alumni finished their meal, the Middle School campus held a fall dance in the Dolly Barranco Center. The High School campus ended the week with a Homecoming Dance on Saturday. From left, the 2019 Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Court: sophomore attendant Auburn Wilcoxson escorted by TJ Dudley; senior attendant Kinley Tadlock escorted by Christian Ivey; Homecoming Queen and King Anna DuBois and Minh Vo; senior attendant Katherine O’Connor escorted by Christopher Valencia; junior attendant Rachel Rodriguez escorted by Kolbe Russo; and freshman attendant Kayleigh Everage escorted by LJ Green. Photo by Total Image 43

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Eastwood Makes a Difference

Eastwood Christian Lower School student Wesley Anne Preston wrote a letter to Eastwood’s administration requesting that the school be more committed to recycling and caring for the planet. The Student Government Association was inspired to make this one of their service projects and is leading the charge to make the campus more committed to responsible recycling efforts. Preston is shown with this year’s SGA. One voice really can make a difference!

Trinity Performs at Holiday Market

Trinity’s Angel Choir, Show Choir and Dance Ensemble performed at the Junior League of Montgomery Holiday Market. This was the first of many performances this year for the firstgraders and a preview of the Christmas presentation “’Twas the Night” by our Show Choir and Dance Ensemble.

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Evangel 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 and country. The annual “See You at the Pole” event was celebrated by students all across the United States. This year’s theme was “If” based on 2 Chronicles 7:14. Several students, teachers and parents gathered together to pray. Students and parents from Evangel Family Christian Academy, Evangel’s homeschool program, also attended the event. Pastors and members of Evangel Church were also present, including Rev. Michael Rippy, head pastor of Evangel Church and president of ECA, and Rev. Chris White, youth pastor of Evangel Church. Micah Brown, a student from ECA, delivered a short sermon based on the theme. Emily Stehl, Sarah Paterson, Micah Brown, and Anthony Morgan 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 United States.

River Region Parents I November 2019

Montgomery Academy Volleyball Wins CCC Tournament

Montgomery Academy’s JV Volleyball team won the CCC Championship while the Middle School Volleyball team finished CCC runners-up.

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Success Unlimited Offers Ballroom Dance

Success Unlimited Academy high schoolers have started the year with an elective class in their schedules that some may consider outside the box. Under Joseph Schaubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teaching, ballroom dancing is a new opportunity for students at SUA! Schaub is an SUA math teacher, but he brings to the dance floor more than twenty years of dance experience and is also an award-winning dance teacher around Montgomery. Students are learning various dances including the tango, rumba and swing, as well as many others. Dance floor etiquette, partnership and coordination are just a few of the many things that SUA students will have practical use for in their adult lives.

The Talking Tree Visits MEA

Macon East Academy lower school students enjoyed story time with a special guest, The Talking Tree. The first-grade class is shown.

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Cornerstone Holds Sword Fighting Battle

The Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy seventh grade recently finished reading C.S. Lewis’ Prince Caspian from the Chronicles of Narnia series. Students were paired up to re-enact the battle between High King Peter of Narnia and King Miraz. The students were responsible for developing a presentation, decorating their swords and choreographing their battle. Lower school students were invited to watch the action. Seventh-grade students in the Cornerstone Classical Drama Club introduced the fight and announced the individual battles.

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Baldwin Students Perform at Naturalization Ceremony

Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet music students performed at the Federal Courthouse for a naturalization ceremony with the Honorable Bess M. Parish Creswell presiding. The Baldwin string quartet—consisting of Hannah Lee, Grace Chung, Sebin Lee and Lynn Han—performed “Stars and Stripes Forever.” The Baldwin Madrigal Choir—consisting of Ariel Miller, Emily Cutler, Emma Golfos, Kierra Underwood, Abby Campton, Bella Tyus and Skyler Culbreth—sang “America the Beautiful” accompanied by Baldwin student Rhea Rastogi on piano. The string quartet and piano student also performed prelude music before the ceremony. Piano instructor Sarah Tanner and choral director Traci Fuller accompanied the students.

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

SUA Students Selected for MMFA Exhibition

Eastwood Christian School PTO, SGA Team Up to Host Annual Kickball Championship

The Eastwood Christian School PTO and SGA hosted a kickball championship at Fain Park for a night of fun and fellowship for the whole school. The 5th- and 6th-grade classes competed with one another, followed by the upper school students (7th-12th grades) who participated in the event as the Caerulei (blue) and Candidi (white) teams. Throughout their time in the Upper School, Eastwood Christian School students are divided into two teams, the Caerulei and Candidi. Each year these teams compete in seven major events, which reflect the school’s classical Christian curriculum. These events span the areas of arts, athletics and academics. The goal of participating in these events is to promote morale through encouragement and team-building. The 6th-grade class defeated the 5th-grade class in their competition. The Candidi won the 2019 kickball championship and was awarded the coveted Kickball Tiki, which will be displayed on the Candidi side of the trophy case until next year’s Kickball Championship. River Region Parents I November 2019

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts challenged students statewide to submit pieces inspired by Jacob Lawrence’s work. Lawrence, an African-American artist known for his portrayal of African-American life, referred to his style as “dynamic cubism.” He painted using blacks and browns splashed with vivid colors. Barbara Grimes, Success Unlimited Academy’s art teacher, submitted eleven students’ works and six were chosen among the 40 to be exhibited. More than 110 pieces were submitted statewide. Ta’Niyah Flynn, Charity Jenkins, Jacoris Smith, Connor Haigler, Savannah Sexton and Jaylan Nelson were selected for the Artworks Gallery exhibition, “Life in Pictures.” Their student exhibition was to compliment the Jacob Lawrence exhibition. Nelson’s piece was specifically chosen to hang on the main exhibition wall. He is shown with his artwork. www.riverregionparents.com

Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate

The Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate Team traveled to Birmingham to compete in the Mountain Brook Novice Tournament. Twenty-two students from MA were involved with the competition that drew 21 schools from across Alabama. Individual winners were: Phipps Fiore - 1st place - Extemporaneous Speaking, Jane Abbie Alford - 2nd place - Prose Interpretation, Jack Selman - 4th place Humorous Interpretation, Brett Westhauser - 5th place - Humorous Interpretation, Will Ashworth - 6th place - Impromptu Speaking, Kareena Singh - 9th place Lincoln/Douglas Debate, Chandler Brazil - 10th place - Lincoln/Douglas Debate, Claire Gary - 12th place - Lincoln/Douglas Debate and Elizabeth Ray & Holden Habermacher - 12th place Public Forum Debate.

Churchill Academy Starts New Journalism Class

Churchill Academy launched a new journalism class for the 2019-2020 year. The class is being instructed by published author and Churchill Academy teacher, Yahnira Backus. Backus arranged for a tour of the studios at WSFA in Montgomery at the historical East Delano location. Students were able to get a glimpse of the news organization that made its debut in Montgomery in the mid-â&#x20AC;&#x2122;50s and has been growing with the River Region ever since. Students watched a live newscast as well as met those who work on camera and behind the scenes. Thank you to Gray TV and WSFA for pouring into the future of journalism.

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November is perfect time to deliver thanks. It is time to thank the Pike Road School (PRS) board members for their hard work and dedication. November 15th, which is School Board Members Day, we will join with others throughout the district and state to thank the men and women who provide service to our Pike Road Schools as school board members. School board members routinely make personal sacrifices in their role in assuring local control over our district. The school board works closely with parents, educators, and community members to help create the educational vision for our students and our schools. It assists in formulating goals, defining results, and setting the course for our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; educational program. PRS is grateful to have dedicated and active school board members! October was principal appreciation month and Pike Road Schools are blessed to have

River Region Parents I November 2019

principals that live up to the challenge. Principal appreciation month provides us an opportunity to publicly recognize the work, commitment, and importance of principals, and assistant principals, throughout our district. Thank you to the PRS principals, and assistant principals, for all you do and for your work and leadership! As we enter the second semester of the 2019/2020 school year we are off to a great start as a young school district. We are in our fifth year as a district and the first school year with all grades, PreK through 12th. Our learners have been working hard and it shows, in the classroom, in the athletic arena, and in or community. The articles to follow show that the hard work of our learners is paying off. Our first senior class is busy setting precedents for those to follow while preparing themselves for their next steps in life.Â Our facilities are continuing to be built and improved. We are renovating the Georgia Washington Campus and the first section of the renovation is coming along well. Soon you will see new windows and heat/air systems installed as you drive past. When the first section is complete, we will move to the next section. There will be three segments of work to complete the project. We have also begun a 12

classroom addition to the Historic Campus that will provide current needed space and prepare us for future growth. Our baseball and softball fields are under way as are our concession stand, restrooms, and press box. We appreciate all our stakeholders patience as we grow and build outstanding facilities for our learners. The partnership between Pike Road Schools, the Town of Pike Road, and the people of Pike Road is incredible, and was evidenced last month when we played our first home football games in our new stadium. The game was great, the band was incredible, but the feeling of unity in or community was truly special! The future is bright for Pike Road Schools! Keep an eye on us as we continue to lead the way in education and make our school district the best it can be.

Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 28 years. He has earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Chuck Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his ninth year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.

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Y O U R H E A LT H OUR MISSION

“We have life because of Baptist.” Meagan, NICU Mother

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BAPTIST HEALTH MATERNITY PATIENT When Meagan’s twins were born at 27 weeks, she never heard a cry. They were immediately whisked to the Baptist NICU where doctors and nurses quickly responded with expertise, care and compassion. When Meagan saw her babies for the very first time, it was because the Baptist nurses had pushed her bed next to the isolettes in the NICU. And now, as Meagan reflects on the difficult months her sons spent in the NICU, she will never forget the impact those nurses made on her heart.

Learn more about our COMPASSIONATE CARE at

BAPTISTFIRST.ORG

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PRMS Takes Field Trip For Career Expo

Eighth-graders at Pike Road Schools recently took a field trip to Southern Union Community College in Opelika for a Career Expo. They were able to gain hands-on career experiences through fun activities. It was a great learning opportunity that provided our eighth-grade learners with an opportunity to think about their future plans.

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First Pike Road Band Competition a Success

The Pike Road Band brought home some hardware from its first marching competition! Individual scores were: Drum Major - 1, Color Guard - 2, Drum Line - 1, Band - 1,1,1 Overall – 1. What is especially impressive is that this is a young band that didn’t begin marching until this summer.

PRMS Selects Teacher of the Month

PRHS Recognizes Homecoming Court

The 2019 Pike Road High School Homecoming Court included freshman attendants Ella Clark and Chandler Paymon; sophomore attendants Shelby Johnson and Deaysia Moore; junior attendants Peyton Courson and Jenna Locklier; and senior attendants Isabella Vinson and Katherine Norris. Queen was Mya Whitehurst. To be nominated for the PRHS Homecoming court, each girl was required to raise a certain amount money for a charity of her choice. Once that goal was met, the girls were then voted on by the PRHS student body.

Tiffany Rush has been selected by the Pike Road Middle School student body as Teacher of the Month! Rush served as the PRMS reading interventionist last year, and has continued to serve as an interventionist as well as leading two Community 7 ELA classes. “She’s very understanding and knows how to explain things well and helps us move ahead,” said one student.

Pike Road Schools Hosts Lunch & Learn

Pike Road Schools, in conjunction with Alabama State Department of Education, recently hosted a parent informational lunch and learn, “Special Education at a Glance.” Approximately 60 PRS parents, teachers and staff attended. The State Department had several specialists present information beneficial in helping better understand the laws, requirements, and guidelines concerning special education services. River Region Parents I November 2019

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Pike Road Hosts First Homecoming Parade & Football Game

Pike Road Schools celebrated their first Homecoming “at home” on Friday, October 11. There was a crowd of 2,000 plus at the Homecoming parade and game, showcasing the enthusiastic engagement of students, parents and citizens in Pike Road. Students and parents from all three PRS campuses, along with community members, lined the streets of the PRHS campus Friday afternoon to watch the Homecoming parade. The Pike Road Fire Department escorted our very first Grand Marshall, Alma Bowen, who was Miss Georgia Washington in 1969. That evening spectators poured into the new Pike Road High School football stadium, the first game to be held at the new field at Pike Road High School, the Georgia Washington campus. Pre-game activities included recognizing alumni of both the Georgia Washington High School and Original Pike Road School. Game time began with fans cheering wildly as the Pike Road Patriots took the field with music and an impressive light show. The Patriots played a great Homecoming game, beating the Dadeville Tigers 42 to 0.

PRHS Students Participate in Construction Competition

Congratulations to the Pike Road High School students who participated in and won the inaugural high school Construction Management Competition held at Tuskegee University. PRHS team members were Hunter Jinright, Tyler Massey, Austin McConnell and Robert Rivera, and their instructor is Levi Noles. The team’s builder sponsor was Southern Traditions Construction, which is based in Pike Road.

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We are flying through the school year. The first nine weeks of school has ended, football playoffs are in full swing, and Veterans Day is almost here. Veterans Day is very special to me since I served in Desert Shield/Storm and Iraqi Freedom. I want to thank all the men and women who have served our great country, so we can freely pursue any goal or occupation we desire. As I am well into my fifties, I appreciate each day that my dad and granddad served in the military and the values by which they lived their lives. Veterans are a big part of our community, and I thank each of you for your service. Remember our schools

will be closed November 11 in honor of our veterans. On October 1, 2019, Pine Level Elementary School held an event for their students, faculty, and families to celebrate the completion of their new walking track. The Pine Level students, families, businesses, and the Board of Education came together to make the dream a reality. The track provides an area for exercise before, during, and after school for all stakeholders in a positive, healthy, safe environment, encourages healthy lifestyle choices for students, and promotes community participation. Great job, Pine Level Elementary School faculty and administrators! Another new walking track was unveiled at Prattville Primary School in late September. Made from recycled tires through a process that provides a seamless joint friendly surface for

physical activity, students now have an environmentally friendly and low impact walking trail available to them during physical education classes and outdoor activities. Special thanks go to ADEM for providing the grant to make this dream come to fruition. Great job, Prattville Primary School faculty and administrators! Remember, schools will be closed November 25-29 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.

THE CAROLS OF December 14 and 15 â&#x20AC;˘ 5 PM PRESENTED BY FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH WORSHIP MINISTRY fbcprattville.org/christmas

River Region Parents I November 2019

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Grandparents Visit Prattville Primary

It was so GREAT having grandparents with us at Prattville Primary. Thank you for coming and spending time at PPS! Our CNP makes a great breakfast.

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Firefighters Visit Prattville Kindergarten School Engine 2 visited Prattville Kindergarten for Firefighters 4 Lunch.

MEMBERSHIP IS A PRESENT FOR EVERYONE

JOINING FEE

when you join the Prattville YMCA online on Cyber Monday prattvilleymca.org/membership/ 53

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Daniel Pratt Beta Holds Food Drive

The Beta Club at Daniel Pratt Elementary held its annual food drive in October. Students brought in specific food items each day and placed them in containers labeled boys and girls. A competition between boy and girl students kept them excited about donating! Beta Club students were responsible for counting, sorting, and reporting totals each day. The food items collected were donated to Prattville’s First United Methodist Church Backpack Ministry. The ministry provides weekend meals for students in need. They serve four schools in Autauga County. DPES collected more than 7,400 items!

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Pine Level Receives Milo’s Donation

Pine Level Elementary was one of five recipients for $1,000 from Milo’s. The money from the grant has helped the school build a walking trail that provides an opportunity for all staff, students and the community to have a positive, healthy, safe environment.

Safety Town @ PKS

On September 19 and 20, Prattville Kindergarten School students concluded a community unit with the Safety Town event. Community support was great. The PKS gym was transformed into a small town which included a hospital, grocery story, police department, library, fire station and veterinarian office. Students traveled around the community learning about community helpers and how to stay safe in their community. Thank you to Lt. Kristian Taylor, Lt. Christopher Bennett, Captain Thomas Boone, MSgt. Christopher Herndon (medics), Publix Associates, Prattville Police, Prattville librarians, Prattville firefighters, and Dr. Dee Jones for helping with this awesome event. After traveling around Safety Town, students went outside to see and learn about military medic vehicles, police cars and fire trucks.

Prattville Proclaims October Careers in Construction Month

The construction industry is one of our nation’s largest industries, employing more than 5 million individuals in the U.S. By the year 2022, the construction industry will need 1.4 million new craft professionals. With this awareness, members of the Greater Montgomery Home Builders Association (GMHBA) invited area schools to participate in a Construction Management Competition to highlight the importance of skilled labor trades. The City of Prattville proclaimed October as Careers in Construction month to increase public awareness and appreciation of the entire construction workforce. At the Prattville City Council meeting, members of the GMHBA, Autauga County Technology Center Director Deana Goodwine, instructor and Future Farmers of America (FFA) sponsor George Pullom, and student FFA members Clark Alford and Hunter Edwards shared in the proclamation. Employers, associations and schools were encouraged to conduct job fairs, panel discussions, and local community events to inform students of the vast employment opportunities in construction. River Region Parents I November 2019

PJHS Rocks Parade

Prattville Junior High participated in the Homecoming Parade and our Beta sponsors “rocked the night away!” We are grateful for so many teachers who go above and beyond to provide excellent opportunities for our students. 54

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PPS Opens New Walking Track

Prattville Primary School held the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new walking track Sept. 14. The event brought families and students together for a fun morning of walking and riding bikes on the new track and rock painting. More than 100 people attended as well as several community leaders. The track was made possible by a generous grant from ADEM.

Marbury Middle Holds Food Drive

The Marbury Middle School leadership class, led by Eden Arsenault, has been participating in the “We Scare Hunger” food drive. The seventh- and eighth-grade students spent several days researching and learning about food scarcity and its effects in Alabama, the U.S., and across the world. They brainstormed ways to help make an impact in the tri-county area and then composed several slogans for the posters they hung up around the school. The students also chose several food scarcity facts and examples of non-perishable food items to incorporate on the posters. Two students presented the idea to Principal Jerome Barrington, as well as wrote the message for the morning announcements. The food drive ran through the end of October. A box for each grade was placed outside the front office for the donated items. The grade who donated the most will be rewarded with an extra break. All donations will be given to the Autauga Interfaith Care Center located in Prattville.

PCA Named Blue Ribbon School

Prattville Christian Academy was named a 2019 National Blue Ribbon School by U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos. Of the 362 schools recognized throughout the country and only 50 nonpublic schools, PCA is recognized as one of the highest performing schools as measured by elementary and middle school standardized test scores, and among the top 15 percent of schools in the nation. Founded in 1997, PCA works to infuse faith into all subjects while promoting differentiation, 21st-century skills, and a Christ-centered education. Students have access to a range of opportunities through a resource program for struggling students, dyslexia intervention, and gifted classes for high-ability students. Above academic achievements, students are encouraged to develop servant leadership skills through class projects, enrichment opportunities, and days set aside to serve others through PCA’s spiritual emphasis initiatives.

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Prattville Primary Participates in Reading Challenge

Prattville Primary School partnered with the Autauga Prattville Public Library and participated in the Fall Reading Challenge. Each student that completed six hours of reading and logged their reading, earned a free ticket to the Autauga County Fair. Prattville Primary School had 107 students complete the Fall Reading Challenge.

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Pine Level Builds Unity With New Bulldog Mascot PJHS Students Cheer On Field of Dreams Players Prattville Junior High students supported the Prattville Field of Dreams during a recent adaptive baseball game. We filled the stands with students and staff members to support other local students and adults and to cheer them all on to victory. We are proud of our students for looking beyond their own needs to be a part of the community!

Students at Pine Level Elementary are welcomed to school by Marbury High School football players and cheerleaders. The collaboration between the two schools is a community effort to celebrate the changing of the school mascot to bulldogs. The players and cheerleaders display leadership, service and unity to the elementary students as they greet the students in car and bus lines encouraging each student to have a great day.

Marbury Middle Teachers Win Technology Prize

Marbury Middle School teachers took home the technology grand prize of $10,000 during Institute Day for Autauga County Schools. The theme for the event was “Through the Decades” and MMS chose the ‘70s as their decade. The money will be used to purchase technology items for the school.

Prattville Elementary Enjoys Interactive PE

Students at Prattville Elementary School enjoy learning at PE. Coaches are using the Lu playground system to provide an interactive educational experience for our students. The system transforms our gym into an engaging video game that gets the students moving and having fun. River Region Parents I November 2019

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PCA Receives 2019 Gifted Education Honor

Prattville Christian Academy is piloting a gifted education program under the direction of the school’s academic director, Kim Stephenson. This new initiative is designed to reach and challenge students who need more from the classroom to expand differentiated learning to students. Under Stephenson’s direction, this program was recently awarded the 2019 Professional Development Network Award by the National Association for Gifted Children’s Professional Learning Network. Stephenson, a gifted advocate, has been instrumental in bringing differentiation and creative problem-solving strategies to PCA since moving out of the classroom as a teacher and into a critical administrative role. Since 2016, she’s worked to educate stakeholders and faculty members on how to identify traits, aptitudes and behaviors of gifted students. She teaches three levels of gifted education classes for students in lower and upper elementary as well as middle school levels during the school day. In addition to accepting the award at the annual National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) Conference in New Mexico later this year, Stephenson will present to teachers from across the country in partnership with the University of Alabama on Supporting Pre-Service Gifted Teachers and Gifted Students in Quality Summer Programs, to Alabama gifted teachers on Sparking Creativity with Design Thinking at the state conference, and will be featured in an upcoming NAGC publication on how she was able to plan and implement professional development of PCA’s piloted gifted program. Stephenson is a state-certified gifted and special education teacher in grades K-12, but currently leads PCA’s academic initiatives in the areas of curriculum, educational initiatives, alignment of accreditation standards, and faculty professional development. She also teaches gifted students across the nation via online courses through Duke University and currently serves in the state advocacy role of vice president of the Alabama Association for Gifted Children Board. In addition to a gifted education program, PCA offers a resource program so that students of all abilities can learn in an environment best suited for individual skills and abilities. PCA’s Resource Center provides academic support to students outside of the regular classroom during the school day to reduce the time students spend tutoring outside of school hours.

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We have had a very busy fall in Elmore County! Sporting events, homecoming festivities, fall festivals, and other events have provided many opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities. Our students have also demonstrated their willingness to serve and help others. They have held class competitions for United Way contributions, held Breast Cancer awareness activities on their campuses, and participated in Red Ribbon Week, the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness campaign. Lastly, I am very proud of the Veterans Day observances held in our schools. This is a day to celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of all U.S. veterans, and a variety of activities are held that help students better understand the contributions and sacrifices made by veterans. It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and I have much

River Region Parents I November 2019

to be thankful for in Elmore County Schools. I am thankful for parents who entrust us to teach and nurture their children. I am thankful for parents who volunteer in classrooms, chaperone field trips, serve on committees, work in concession stands, and help in so many ways. I am thankful for parents who encourage teachers or other staff or send additional supplies to a classroom during the school year. I am truly thankful for parents who communicate high expectations and the value of education to their children. Second, I am thankful for our students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all 11,500 of them! We have a diverse student population with 34 languages spoken by our English learners. Our students participate in many extracurricular activities that help them grow personally and equip them with skills to be better students and future workers. Our 2018 graduates earned a combined total of $22 million in scholarships which is a testimony to their hard work to achieve academic excellence. Third, I am thankful for the spirit of community in Elmore County. The support of local business, churches, and other

organizations is a tremendous benefit to our schools. Finally, I am thankful for our employees. Every employee plays an important role in fulfilling our purpose: Every Student Empowered â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Every Student Succeeds. Every single one contributes in some way to ensuring that we educate our children to the best of our ability in a clean, safe environment with sufficient resources. As the largest employer in Elmore County, I am thankful for talented, dedicated employees who do what they do for our students. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on those things for which we are thankful, and I am thankful for the parents, students, community partners, and employees of the Elmore County Public School System. Happy Thanksgiving!

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 Second-Graders Learn from Lady Liberty

Second-grade students from Redland Elementary took a field trip to Wetumpka High School to meet Lady Liberty and to learn what the Statue of Liberty represents for our country.

WMS Names Teachers of the Year Wetumpka Middle School teachers, from left, Melanie Powell-Williams, (7/8th grade), and Sara Stewart (5/6th grade) were recently awarded WMS Teachers of the Year!

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Tallassee Band Earns Superiors

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The Tallassee High School Band earned straight Superior ratings at marching band competitions held in Phenix City September 28 and Troy October 5. At Phenix City, Tallassee earned Best in Class Drum Major (Samuel Gantt), Best in Class Battery Percussion (Kyle Boatwright, drum captain), Best in Class Pit Percussion (Sinclair Cole, section leader), Best in Class Color Guard (Beth East, color guard captain), and Best in Class Majorettes (Natalie Henderson, head majorette). The band is under the direction of Robert Glasscock and Melanie Perry. Other staff members include Jordan Wallace (percussion instructor), Mike Hammonds (music arranger), Vicki Baker (majorette instructor), Jennifer Crain (auxiliaries coordinator), and Michael Bird (announcer).

Holtville Awards Teacher of the Year

Holtville Elementary School recently announced Jessica Flowers the 2019-20 Teacher of the Year. Flowers has been teaching at Holtville for three years now. She says she enjoys being a teacher because everything she does each day matters to those in her classroom. Flowers enjoys teaching her 4th-grade students and challenging them to become better than they were the day before. River Region Parents I November 2019

Wetumpka Cross Country Attends Disney Meet

Wetumpka High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cross country team attended the Disney Classic Cross Country meet held at ESPN Wide World of Sports. Several student athletes made personal records and overall the team did well. 60

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No Snoozing For These Homeschoolers

Wearing pajamas and fuzzy slippers and carrying teddy bears and blankies, students at Academy Days Co-op in Millbrook dressed as stereotypical homeschoolers for Pajama Day recently. Elementary students who dressed up for this International Homeschool Spirit Week event are shown. The Academy Days Co-op meets weekly during the school year at Coosada Baptist Church for homeschoolers to take classes in subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group settings, such as photography, criminology, creative writing, P.E. and science labs. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information.

Wetumpka Band Scores Superiors at Competition

Wetumpka High School’s Pride of the Tribe Marching Band brought home straight Superiors and a Best in Class Drum Major award from the 2019 Heart Of Dixie Band Competition in Prattville. This year’s halftime show, “Feelin’ Jazzy,” included Big Band songs and instrument solos from Glenn Miller. The students are led by Band Director Jason Warnix and Drum Majors Alyssa Moore and Kaitlyn Fleming. Band seniors are shown with their trophies.

Eclectic Elementary September Students of the Month

Kindergarten: Chase Grubbs, Paris Kendrick, Ryan Perdue, Adrian Kendrick, Haleigh Sanders and Skylar Shultz; 1st Grade: Ty’Quan Ross, Ashton Acheson, Emmett Callins, Carson Jones and Brantley Rogers; 2nd Grade: Shawn Compton, GW Simpson, Erica Brown, Karsen Haskins and Dalton Boswell; 3rd Grade: Kambell Shade, Baileigh Ames, Titus Carter, Beckham Duncan and Rhys Watkins; and 4th Grade: Mac Robbins, Kynslee Lausee, Shiyanne Grier and Madelyn Lofton.

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Elmore County Schools

Wetumpka Fishing Team Reels in Trophies

The Wetumpka High School Bass Fishing Team had a successful day at the ASABFA District Tournament on Lake Jordan recently.

Wetumpka Indians Volleyball Team Makes Playoffs

The Wetumpka Lady Indians volleyball team are area champions after sweeping Stanhope Elmore in three sets!

Tallassee High School Principal Awarded

Matt Coker of Tallassee High School was voted by the readers of Tallapoosa Publishers newspapers (The Wetumpka Herald, The Eclectic Observer, and The Tallassee Tribune) as Best Principal of 2019!

Redland Names Mitchell Teacher of the Year Meredith Mitchell, center, was named Redland Elementaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teacher of the Year. She is a special education teacher and has been instrumental in establishing a sensory walk and providing elements in classrooms that allow students to thrive. She is shown with RES instructional assistant Christy Wright and Principal Chad Walls.

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TheCollegeYears Preparing Teens for Life Outside the Nest

by Lee Gonet

Parental Involvement Use the Holidays as an Opportunity! According to Dr. Turner, author of Character Driven College Preparation, “the most accurate predictor of a student’s achievement in school is not income or social status, but the extent to which that student’s family is involved.” Fall and winter breaks, Thanksgiving and Christmas provide opportunities for building relationships.

Importance of Parenting

When my children were growing up, my car displayed a bumper sticker saying Every Home is a School. What Do You Teach? The border surrounding this message listed characteristics that every parent wants to instill in their children: Respectfulness, Diligence, Joyfulness, Integrity, Patience, Dedication, Kindness, Goodness, Loyalty, Confidence, Gentleness, Motivation, Dependability, Self-control. My point is that parents are continuously teaching. We teach by what we say, how we act, what we value, and how we spend our time. When we show our children that we value them, and we embody the principles we want them to represent, they, too, will cherish these ideals. The National Committee for Citizens in Education reports that students will succeed throughout their school careers when parents create a home environment that encourages learning, when they express high (but reasonable) expectations for achievement, and when they become involved in their children’s education.

Result of Absentee Parenting

Unfortunately, 90% of teachers identify a lack of parental support as their number one problem, and teenagers report that loneliness is their biggest struggle. Teachers agree, describing teens as “emotionally needy and starved for attention and affection” (Carnegie Foundation). Fifty years of research by the Department of Education underscores these concerns, but studies also reveal that “when families are involved in their children’s educations, children earn higher grades, attend school more regularly, complete more homework, and demonstrate more positive

attitudes and behaviors than students with less involved families.”

Dangers of Social Media

Unsupervised access to social media is becoming a national problem as reported by University-Model Schools International. Not only does it hinder parental influence, but it also affects real relationships and school performance. Academically, social media: • sabotages time management and productivity. • interferes with homework and sleep. • instills a lack of discipline and of self-control. Relationally, social media: • feeds upon a hunger for significance, while undermining the virtues needed for healthy relationships. • nourishes self-indulgent behavior, while discouraging responsibility. • provides an addictive distraction, while squandering a constructive use of time. • facilitates bullying, while encouraging anonymity.

Academic-Strengthening Suggestions

• Offering help with school assignments, regardless of age, shows children that you care and are willing to come alongside them as mentors. • Familiarize yourself with course syllabi. • Encourage diligence on all assignments. • Monitor progress and timely completion of work. • Discuss reading assignments. Take responsibility for instruction over homework. • Proofread written work for correction by the student. • Listen to speeches and presentations. • Help gather study materials from libraries. Teachers will also appreciate your assistance, or at the very least a request for how to best help your children improve. This process will strengthen the natural bond between you and your children and increase your children’s chances of success. 63

Avoid the Super-Hero Myth

Sometimes children struggle because they are overloaded with work and stressed by high expectations. Taking on a fullcourse load of AP classes, serving on the worship team, playing soccer, working a part-time job, and expecting to make the Honor Roll is too much for anyone! Many parents unconsciously buy into the superhero myths of our culture. Instead, they should help children make wise choices and teach them to say no to some activities. Sit down with your children and prioritize together. Discuss what is important to you both, and make decisions to limit the weight of responsibilities.

Character-Building Suggestions

Two major problems facing children today are laziness and apathy. Students may give up because they don’t want to work hard, lack a desire to learn, or have trouble persevering through difficulties. This attitude is correctable, but implanting the virtues of hard work, persistence, and self-sacrifice is worth the effort. • Consistently discuss personal values. • Address possible fears of failure. • Teach time management. • Curtail critical comments. • Encourage diligence. • Limit screen time and social media. • Enforce consequences. • Never use time as an excuse. Nothing is more important than raising your children. A final note: I am not advocating helicopter parenting. Sometimes, obstacles and failures can be powerful motivators and provide the best way to learn. Parents, remind your children often of their unique and priceless value, but don’t make life too easy. Even though the balancing act between doing and helping is difficult, the rewards are wonderfully gratifying. Lee Gonet is an avid learner, speaker, educator, and world traveler. She loves challenging teenagers to excel beyond what society considers possible by teaching young people to think deeply, learn intensely, and act purposefully outside the classroom box. For example, her daughter worked abroad by 16 and her son earned his Engineering Master’s by 20. Dreams do come true. If you would like to learn more about Lee or her ACT Prep Classes, go to leestestprep.com!

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Gratitude is one of the most important ways for us to get a happiness boost, providing us with so many wonderful psychological, physical, and interpersonal benefits. It improves our health, reduces stress, and helps us focus on the positive. Stepping back and being thankful for what we have gives us energy, inspires us, and transforms us. It also helps us realize that life is truly a gift.

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River Region Parents I November 2019

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Learning how to be grateful is definitely something that we should pass on to our kids. If you can get them into the habit of expressing gratitude from an early age, it is likely to have a positive effect in the long run. Here are some ways to build a gratitude habit in your home.

Gratitude Journals One of the most popular and effective ways to express gratitude stories is through journaling. It encourages our kids to acknowledge the positive moments in their day, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Whether it is a smile from a stranger, a good grade on a test, a gift from a relative, or an awe-inspiring sunset, they will begin to feel calmer and more joyful by appreciating these experiences. Our children can greatly benefit from keeping a gratitude journal, but it’s important that we keep it fun for them such as with multimedia ideas like blogs and videos.

Thanksgiving Dinner Every Night Just because Thanksgiving is in November doesn’t mean we can’t incorporate Thanksgiving traditions year-round as we sit down together at the dinner table. Enjoy your time with your family and encourage your children to tell you all about their day and the things to be grateful for. Ask them to remember to thank siblings and other family members. Some families find it helpful to put together a gratitude jar to collect their thankful statements all year, and then they can go through everything they wrote each year on Thanksgiving.

Bedtime Routine The most important stress buster that I added to my life was introducing a gratitude prayer with my children every night as part of their bedtime routine. We go around the room and each say one thing we are thankful for that day and one thing we hope for in the future. It is such a special time we share together, and has become a key part of our lives. I love this practice because it gives me a chance to think about gratitude every day, even if I don’t always say everything I am thinking out loud for my children to hear. And when you do it with your children, they hold you accountable.

Spontaneous Moments Finally, try finding gratitude moments with your children throughout the day. A great time is during the car ride to and from school or when you are waiting in line at a store or in the doctor’s office. Connect with your children by asking them what happened during their day what they are grateful for. Make gratitude part of your children’s after school routine. Add some fun and interest by asking your kids to use the alphabet, colors, shapes, or other categories to guide what that are thankful for. For example, ask them to find one thing they are grateful for based on the colors of the rainbow: the delicious red apple they had during lunch, the bright blue sky, and the beautiful purple flower blooming in front of your house. Next, spark their appreciation for nature by taking them to awe-inspiring places like gardens, the beach, parks, and hiking and camping spots. And just when your day seems stressful and out of control, take a gratitude break to calm everyone down and to gain a new, more uplifting perspective. mp Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer/blogger and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. You can find her at www.happysciencemom.com and www.sandischwartz.com. Get her free course on raising happy, balanced kids at bit.ly/2i53TDV.

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What Parents Need to Know About Social Media and Anxiety

it adds an extra layer to your parenting duties, it’s a good idea to get a good sense of your kid’s online life. Ask kids to give you a tour of their social media world. As they’re showing you around, you might hear some of the positive stuff you weren’t expecting, as well as some of the problem areas your kid could use help with. Also, add social media to the “wellness checks” that you already do. For example, when you ask how they slept and what they ate, ask how they’re feeling about social media. Is it mostly positive, helpful, and supportive, or do they want to step back but aren’t sure how? Here are some more tips for keeping social media a positive for kids:

From cyberbullying to FOMO to cruel comments, social media can be a land mine for kids. Issues we parents never had to worry about, such as an intimate photo texted to the entire school or Instagram videos of a birthday party we weren’t invited to, are now a risk for many tweens and teens. With kids’ digital well-being a concern, researchers are exploring potential links between social media and the rise in teen suicide rates, tech addiction, and loss of real-life social skills. And many parents are wondering: Is social media causing my kid to have anxiety? It’s an important question -- and one that makes for compelling headlines for worried parents. While it’s too early to say with certainty (this is, after all, the first generation of “digital natives”), the reality is somewhat nuanced. Some research has observed a relationship between social media use and anxiety in kids, but it’s difficult to know if and when social media is causing anxiety or whether kids who are anxious are turning to social media as a way to soothe themselves or seek support. How kids use social media matters, too: Social comparison and feedback-seeking behaviors have been associated with depressive symptoms, which often co-occur with anxiety. Of course, it’s common for kids to feel anxious sometimes. But there’s a big difference between occasional anxiety and an anxiety disorder that requires professional care. If your kid is overly self-conscious, has uncontrollable and unrealistic anxiety, is unable to make it go away, and avoids things, you may want to seek help. For these kids, social media may act as a trigger for -- though not the root cause of -- their anxious feelings. There are also kids, who, for a variety of reasons, may be more sensitive to the anxiety-producing effects of social media. For example, kids with social anxiety disorder may prefer online interactions over face-to-face interactions. Bottom line: You may not know the impact of social media on your kid until issues surface. Unfortunately, simply cutting off social media isn’t necessarily the answer. It’s such a huge part of many kids’ lives that not having access to social media could take a toll. In fact, being connected to friends through social media may counterbalance some of its negative effects. Without conclusive research to back up claims that social media causes anxiety -- and some evidence to show it’s beneficial -- it’s up to you to keep tabs on how your kid’s doing. Though River Region Parents I November 2019

Encourage self-care. Seeing photos of a trip to the beach your friends didn’t invite you to can really sting. If your kid is super bummed or tired of digital drama, suggest they take a break from social media for a while. In fact, if they post a status update that they’re taking a break, their friends might be very accepting because they’ve had similar feelings. Help kids put social media in perspective. People post stuff that makes their lives look perfect -- not the homework struggles, or the fight they had with their dad, or the hours it took to look as good as possible for the camera. Remind kids that social media leaves the messy stuff out -- and that everyone has ups and downs. Encourage offline activities. In a world where kids could spend their days lying around looking at Instagram, it’s doubly important for them to feel as though they’re cultivating their inner lives. Prompt them to balance social media with soul-nourishing activities such as hobbies, exercise, reading, and helping others. Otherwise, what are they going to brag about on social media? Talk about their feelings. Ask them what it feels like to look at other kids’ feeds. Is there a tipping point from when they feel OK to when they start to feel bad about their own lives? Encourage them to stop before that feeling sets in and do something good for themselves instead. Let them know you’re there for them. You may not understand everything about your kid’s online social life. But recognizing it’s important to them makes your kid feel valued -- and more likely to come to you when they encounter problems. Get help. If you see any cause for concern, including mood swings that seem to result from social media, not taking pleasure in activities he or she used to enjoy, and having accompanying symptoms such as headaches and stomachaches, visit your kid’s pediatrician for a professional opinion. The Child Mind Institute contributed to this article. Learn more at childmind.org.

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A Tribute To Mom

by Kate Seale Smith

She was also an incredible wife, When mom was a little girl she fell mother and grandmother, who my in love with dancing. She turned that children fondly called Kiki. She loved childhood love into a thriving school spending time with and company, now in its her family! Sunset 33rd Season. Confidently boat rides on Lake and humbly, she led and Martin with her husnurtured thousands of band, Turner, were students, instilling positive life lessons into their her favorite. Kitty hearts and minds. I know was a faithful memthat is what she was most ber of First United proud of! She was a role Methodist Church model to many and has for almost 50 years. had a hand in raising She was widely numerous young men and known throughout women. Her leadership the community for was unwavering and she her 15 years inalways worked to see her volvement in Bible Study Kitty Seale, Founder of ADT vision of a pre professional Fellowship (BSF), first as company through. But above all else, a participant and then as a leader. She she did it all for the dancers, so that they managed to make everyone she came could have an opportunity to train under across feel special and loved. the best instruction, have performance Mom always strived for excellence opportunities, and most importantly esin her dancers, and her mission was to tablish friendships in the ADT family that challenge her dancers technically and arwill carry through their lives. tistically, all while maintaining a nurturing

environment where each dancer, regardless of career aspirations could excel. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue onward and upward. Miss Kittyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s light will never be extinguished. She has left a shining beacon in her wake, the Alabama Dance Theatre. We are ADT strong! Kitty Seale founded the Alabama Dance Theatre in 1986. She passed away in September at the age of 71.

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DEC. 15 | 4PM & 6:30PM From glorious arrangements of classic Holiday Hymns from our full choir and orchestra, to Classic Carols for the whole family to sing along with, this event will be the musical highlight of your Season! Free childcare for Birth-3 years.

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by Kimberley Carter Spivey

River Region Parents I November 2019

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Thanksgiving is that time of year when family and friends travel near and far to enjoy special moments with each other while basking in the joy of gratitude, sitting around a beautiful feast at the dinner table. In reality, some families struggle to co-exist while joining together during the holiday season, and sitting around the table with relatives may inspire anything but gratitude. Perhaps, you may have an overly opinionated mother-in-law who gives unsolicited advice on how to raise your children. An aunt who’s a perfectionist and no matter what you do, from placing the table linens precisely to roasting the turkey to perfection — nothing ever seems to be good enough. Or just maybe, you have that one family member who’s habitually negative, which results in conflict and family tension every holiday. Despite the power struggles, childish behavior, and annoying jabs, avoid allowing family members to put a damper on the day. The good news is that there are ways to navigate through frustrating family ties. Here are ways to cope with these unpalatable situations and make the best of your day together as a family.

Pick your battles: At some point during

your life, you’ve been advised to choose your battles carefully. Maybe it was on the playground during a competitive race through the obstacle course, during an 8 a.m. board room meeting with several opposing points of view, or discussing a new car purchase with your significant other who’s not in favor. During a conversation, everyone expresses themselves differently. A person may come across as brash, however, their intentions may not be to insult or upset you. Whenever conflict seems to be brewing, steer the conversation towards a more positive path to defuse the situation. Another technique to try is training yourself to be less sensitive or quick-tempered. Remember, the holiday season is a time to connect and enjoy your family while sharing healthy and delightful conversations.

Be assertive and respectful: Every family member should be respected and treated like an adult — even if you’re the youngest family member present. If a dispute occurs that you’re not comfortable with, you have the right to stand up for yourself. For example, if your motherin-law, aunt, or whoever is attempting to

discipline your child in a manner that you don’t approve of, stand firm as the parent with your expectations. If you’re intentional and communicate your expectations to your family kindly, it avoids conflict. Taking this approach is an opportunity to alleviate stress and enjoy time with your family.

Choose light-hearted conversations:

As the saying goes, it’s not what you say, but how you say it. It’s important to know that effective communication allows openness to receive what you’re trying to convey. Also, taking an opportunity to choose light-hearted conversation starters helps to break barriers of feeling uncomfortable and displaced. Avoid choosing open-ended questions that could potentially result in a “yes or no” response. Here are some great conversations starters to consider. What personal passion project are you working on right now? What was the highlight of your week? If you had to pick one, skydiving, bungee jumping, or scuba diving, which would you do?

Adjust your attitude: There are several

advantages to having a positive attitude. It reduces stress, produces more energy, and creates a positive environment. While

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keeping those in mind, operating from a place of negativity causes adverse effects on you mentally and physically. No one jumps at the chance of being around someone with an unpleasant attitude. Negativity is an unproductive way to build a connection with a family member because it potentially causes division which hinders building a relationship. Instead of dreading and agonizing about spending time with your family, focus on the possibility of mending a relationship.

Agree on a conflict resolution ahead of time: There is conflict in all relationships, and it’s normal among many families. Making an effort to reconcile

River Region Parents I November 2019

differences before joining family and friends during the holidays ensures privacy to settle a dispute without involving other family members. Otherwise, you could face the situation worsening and unresolved. Though this could seem like a daunting task — it’s a proactive approach that could potentially avoid worsening the situation. If you’re willing to give yourself and your relative an opportunity for a resolution, it will make the day much more enjoyable.

Establish healthy boundaries: How do

you establish setting boundaries without increasing an already uncomfortable situation? Setting boundaries are a healthy way to keep you safe. Although your family may not agree with your decision — it is necessary and healthy for you to set boundaries. Keep in mind that boundaries shouldn’t be so unreasonable that it damages a relationship. They are also about compromise, not an ultimatum. Be open with your family about what you can or can’t tolerate to progress through the day with a clear and agreeable understanding.

Don’t overextend your stay: Traveling during the holiday season can be stressful, especially long-distance travel. And combining it with dread of an extended stay can certainly damper your plans. Putting yourself in a situation to dread a prolonged visit could cause additional anxiety and stress. Taking a different approach to determine a reasonable timeframe to visit will make you more comfortable and lessen the worry of interacting with family. Although entering into the holidays might lead to frustration of unresolved family issues, take some time to reflect on the art of gratitude. Embrace being thankful for having an opportunity to spend time with your family and create memories. While these recommendations can’t necessarily improve your family, perhaps they can improve your mood and help you get through the holidays with your sanity intact.

Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, educator, and entrepreneur. When she’s not working at her alma mater, Auburn University at Montgomery, she’s busy freelancing, blogging, or toiling away at her soon to be published first book.

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MAX4Kids 20th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Raises Funds to Support Local Children’s Charities

On October 16, the MAX4Kids Foundation hosted its 20th Annual MAX4Kids Charity Golf Tournament at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Prattville. With 172 golfers and 70 dedicated sponsors, the fundraising event was a huge success and netted more than $30,000. At this year’s event, the MAX4Kids Foundation presented Tie and Doll with a $1,000 donation and Kid One Transport with a $5,000 donation. “The MAX4Kids Charity Golf Tournament is our biggest fundraiser each year,” said Kenneth Hill, vice president of mortgage services and MAX4Kids president. “We are thankful for the continued support of MAX’s vendors, customers, and the community who have helped make this tournament a success for the past 20 years.” The MAX4Kids Foundation benefits children’s charities in the River Region and East Alabama, as well as the MAX4Kids Scholarship Program. From left, Tie and Doll Executive Director Traci Howell, Montgomery Biscuits “Big Mo,” Kid One Transport President Matt Holdbrooks, MAX4Kids President and MAX Vice President of Mortgage Services Kenneth Hill and MAX4Kids Vice President and MAX Vice President of Relationship Development Jamie Brown present Tie and Doll and Kid One Transport with donations from MAX4Kids.

Young DJ Receives Leadership Award

Since he was 12 years old, De’Veon Keon Robinson, known as DJ Keon, has had a passion for music. From country to rap to soulful R&B, he spent hours a day mixing the sounds of the beat. He saved up money and with the help of his parents, he was able to buy his own sound system and equipment to become a DJ. Today, 17-year-old DJ Keon is bringing music all over the city to schools, community events, and special occasions. Recently he was the first recipient of the Stand Up! Stand Out! Leadership Award presented by All Things By Grace. DJ Keon is celebrated for his outstanding entrepreneurship, leadership and confidence.

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Montgomery Alabama Dance Theater “Mistletoe” featuring Messiah ad on page 37

November 14, 16-17 @ The Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 The Alabama Dance Theatre along with Troy University of Montgomery will host a special “Sneak Peek” of “Mistletoe” in honor of our Military and First Responders on Thursday, November 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the Davis Theatre. The performance is open to all active duty, retirees, reserve and National Guard military personnel, active and retired first responders, and their families who present a valid government/military ID card at the door. The Alabama Dance Theatre will perform their holiday production of “MISTLETOE” November 16, 2 and 7 p.m. and November 17 at 2 p.m. at The Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. It will feature “Favorite Dances of Christmas” and “Messiah” an audience favorite. Reserved and general admission tickets are available by visiting www. alabamadancetheatre.com. For more information call 334-625-2800. (334) 625.2800 alabamadancetheatre.com

Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” ad on page 85

December 5-29 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 What happens when the rowdiest kids in town find out there are free snacks at Sunday school? They decide to audition for the annual Christmas pageant! The Herdman kids take over the church’s holiday production and insist on playing all the good parts. They’ve never heard the nativity story, and have no idea who Mary, Joseph, or the wise men are. It’s disgraceful! Silent night? Not a chance, but sometimes a little joyful noise is just what Christmastime needs. (334) 271.5353 boxoffice@asf.net asf.net

River Region Parents I November 2019

Annual Holiday Light Festival The Montgomery Zoo ad on page 69

December 5-8, December 12-24 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110 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

First Baptist presents The Joy

Singers Christmas Program ad on page 71

December 1 @ First Baptist Church 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 6:15 p.m. Stakely Sanctuary Come join us as the JOY Adult Choir leads us in worship celebrating the birth of Christ. (334) 241.5156 montgomeryfbc.org

First Baptist presents The Living Christmas Tree ad on page 71

December 13-15 @ First Baptist Church 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Come joins us for the “Living Christmas Tree”. Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage. (334) 241.5156 montgomeryfbc.org

Frazer Memorial UMC

“Candlelight Worship” ad on page 67

December 22 and December 24 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Sunday, December 22 at 5:30 or Tuesday, December 24 at 3:30 for Contemporary or 5:30 for Traditional. (334) 272.8622 frazerumc.org

Frazer Memorial UMC’s Christmas Musical: Glorious Carols of Christmas ad on page 67

December 8 @ Wesley Hall 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 4 and 6:30 p.m. From glorious arrangements of classic Holiday Hymns from our full choir and orchestra, to Classic Carols for the whole family to sing along with, this event will be the musical highlight of your Season! (334) 272.8622

frazerumc.org

Frazer Memorial UMC Women’s Christmas Brunch ad on page 67

December 7 @ Wesley Hall 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 9-11 A.M. in the 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 “Setting Another Place” from Donna Oliphint. Tickets are $10 and available in the Atrium beginning on November 3. (334) 495.6391 ktmixon315@aol.com frazerumc.org

Holiday Open House @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts ad on page 33

December 8 @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 2 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. Holiday Open House is free and open to the public, so invite your friends and family and spend the afternoon at MFA celebrating the season. (334) 625.4333 mmfa.org

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Eastdale Mall Santa’s Magical Arrival on Ice

November 8 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 7 p.m. Santa Claus will arrive in his magical sleigh during a spectacular ice show at the Eastdale Mall Ice Palace. Ice Palace skaters will perform whimsical vignettes featuring traditional Holiday tunes that will delight children of all ages. The Eastdale Express will be up and running, so make sure and catch a ride! (334) 277.7380 rholman@spinosoreg.com or bsims@spinosoreg.com eastdale-mall.com

Eastdale Mall - Photos with Santa

November 8 -December 24 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday’s, 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. Come have your photo made with Santa on the big green sleigh! Packages and Digital Files are available to purchase! (334) 277.7380 rholman@spinosoreg.com or bsims@spinosoreg.com eastdale-mall.com

His Vessel Ministries Christmas Open House

November 14 300 Water Street Montgomery, AL 36104 The Vessel Room Christmas Open House with special sales on select items 25-50% off! Refreshments served! Free gift wrapping! Christ-centered gifts (334) 356.4478 Facebook/ His Vessel Ministries

MPAC: Toby Mac

November 17 @ Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa St Montgomery, AL 36104 7 P.M. Please visit our website for ticket pricing.

The magical evening {with a brand new name: All is Bright} will feature live music, followed by a community parade filled with more than 50 community organizations. Rejoice in the season’s first snowfall, a fireworks spectacular, and Santa’s grand arrival! This event is complimentary and open to the public! (334) 279.6046 suzanna@crawfordsq.com theshoppesateastchase.com

The Shoppes at EastChase Pet Photos with Santa

November 23 – December 24 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa returns to his tiny home at The Shoppes for a dose of Christmas magic this holiday season beginning on Black Friday! Santa’s Whimsical Wonderland is located adjacent to Express and across from H&M. Photo packages provided by Studio Panache, start at $20 and while visits with Santa are complimentary, no cell phone photography is allowed. Both families and pets are invited to visit santa, and while appointments are not necessary, we offer the opportunity to book your spot in advance to avoid the line! (334) 279.6046 suzanna@crawfordsq.com theshoppesateastchase.com

The Shoppes at EastChase #SantaatEastchase

November 23 – December 24 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Santa returns to his tiny home at The Shoppes for a dose of Christmas magic this holiday season beginning on Black Friday! Santa’s Whimsical Wonderland is located adjacent to Express and across from H&M. Photo packages provided by Studio Panache, start at $20 and while visits with Santa are complimentary, no cell phone photography is allowed.

(334) 481.5100 mpaconline.org

(334) 279.6046 suzanna@crawfordsq.com theshoppesateastchase.com

The Shoppes at EastChase All is Bright and Christmas Parade

2019 Capital City Tree Lighting

November 23 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Join us for our 5th Annual Tree Lighting celebration as we officially kick off the holiday season!

26-Nov @ Lister Hill Plaza 103 North Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 5:30 – Located in front of City Hall (334) 625.2118 montgomeryal.gov

Planetarium presents: “Tis the Season!”

December 1 - 18 @ Planetarium 1010 Forrest Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 This great traces the development of many of the world’s endearing holiday customs, and how they involve lighting up the winter season, from the burning Yule log and sparkling Christmas tree lights, to the lighting of the Menorah and luminaries. It also recounts the historical religious and cultural rituals practiced during the time of winter solstice. Not only Christian and Jewish, but also Celtic, Pagan, Nordic, Roman, Egyptian and Hopi. It also takes a look at some of our more light-hearted seasonal traditions: from gift-giving and kissing under the mistletoe to songs about lords a-leaping, and ladies dancing. And the custom of decking the halls with greenery and candles. St. Nicholas, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas, and Santa Claus all drop by as well. (334) 241.4799 montgomery.troy.edu/planetarium

Planetarium presents: Season of Light and The Alien Who Stole Christmas December 1 - 18 @ Planetarium 1010 Forrest Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 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 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. (334) 241.4799 m01planet@troy.edu montgomery.troy.edu/planetarium

Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tour Open House

December 2, 9 and 16 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 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

governor.alabama.gov

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14th Annual Light the World: Interfaith Christmas Nativity Exhibit

December 4-8 @ Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 3460 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36111 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

Christchurch presents Candlelit Service of Lessons and Carols

December 5 @ Christchurch 8800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL 36116 6:30 p.m. Candlelit Service of Lessons and Carols featuring Madrigal Voices of Montgomery, Montgomery Brassworks, and conductor Thomas Hinds.

The Montgomery Ballet presents “The Great Montgomery Nutcracker”

December 6-7 @ The Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery St Montgomery, AL 36104 Alabama River Region Ballet is proud to announce the 5th Annual “The Great Montgomery Nutcracker” at the Historic Davis Theatre in downtown Montgomery. Performances will be Friday, December 6th at 7:00pm, Saturday, December 7th at 7:00pm, and Sunday, December 8th at 2:00pm. “The Great Montgomery Nutcracker”, choreographed by Stevan Grebel and set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will thrill the audience with the prodigious dancing of the Youth Ballet Company and students from the school. With spectacular backdrops, scenery and a growing Christmas tree, this ballet is truly magical! (334) 409.0522

montgomeryballet.org

Holiday Dinner Cruise

(334) 387.0566 info@christchurchmgm.net christchurchxp.net

December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 @ Downtown Riverwalk Montgomery, AL 36106 Cruise the Alabama River with Santa on the Harriott II Riverboat, Downtown Riverwalk.

Huntingdon Offers Annual Christmas Celebration

Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis

December 5 @ Huntingdon College College Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Share some holiday cheer at Huntingdon College’s annual Community Christmas Celebration 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

The Montgomery Chorale Holiday Performances December 5 @ Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Ave Montgomery, AL 36104 7 p.m., Messiah Sing Along

(334) 265.3737 info@montgomerychorale.org montgomerychorale.org

Cloverdale Playhouse presents “Dancing at Lughnasa“

December 5-15 @ Cloverdale Playhouse 960 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 This extraordinary play is the story of five unmarried sisters eking out their lives in a small village in Ireland in 1936. Brian Friel’s multi award-winning play is a masterpiece and a tribute to the spirit and valor of the past. It is a haunting and beautiful portrait of the strength and bravery of five sisters who dance wildly in a celebration of their lives... before they change forever.

(334) 262.1530 boxoffice@cloverdaleplayhouse.org cloverdaleplayhouse.org

2019 Capital City Governors Tree Lighting

December 6 @ Capital 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 TBA. Come enjoy the National Guard Band 30 minutes prior to tree lighting. - Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol. (334) 242.7150 montgomeryal.gov

River Region Parents I November 2019

(334) 625.2100 montgomeryal.gov

December 7 @ First United Methodist Church Huntingdon College Montgomery, AL 36106 7:30 a.m. Be a part of the FUMC Oxygen team for this year’s Jingle Bell Run, supporting the Arthritis Foundation! Whether you are a runner or a walker (pet friendly), join our team for fun and exercise as we help raise money to beat arthritis. Register before November 1st and receive a $5 discount! Go to https://events.arthritis.org/ team/18008, or click the link below, to register for the FUMC Oxygen team. We can’t wait to run together for this great cause! (334) 219.8707 jbrMontgomery.kintera.org

Alabama Shakespeare presents, “ALL IS CALM: The Christmas Truce of 1914”

December 7-29 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 A remarkable true story from the Western Front, Christmas, 1914. In a silence amid the combat, a soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Silent Night.” All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 relives an astounding moment in history when Allied troops and German soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate the holiday together, sharing food and drink, playing soccer, and singing carols. This dramatic retelling weaves together firsthand accounts of 30 World War I soldiers with patriotic tunes, trench songs, and Christmas carols. (334) 271.5353 boxoffice@asf.net asf.net

Saint James United Methodist Church Christmas Musical December 8 9045 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 6 p.m. in the Worship Center. The service will feature the Chancel Choir. We hope you can join us for this marvelous musical event. (334) 277.3037 sjlife.com

21st Annual Lights of Love

December 12 @ Jackson Hospital 1725 Pine St Montgomery, AL 36106 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 be sent to those honored or to the family of those memorialized. (334) 293.6940 jackson.org

Eastdale Mall - Breakfast with Santa

December 14 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36109 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Santa always starts his day off with a good breakfast, and this year Eastdale Mall invites you to join him! Reservations required. (334) 277.7380 rholman@spinosoreg.com or bsims@spinosoreg.com eastdale-mall.com

Eastdale Mall - WLWI Giveaway

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December 14 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36109 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. WLWI and Eastdale Mall are giving you the chance to win a $2,500 Shopping Spree! Listen to 92.3 for a chance to win.

Eastdale Mall - Jessica Muse concert

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(334) 277.7359 rholman@spinosoreg.com or bsims@spinosoreg.com eastdale-mall.com

December 14 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36109 5 p.m. Former American Idol Star Jessica Muse in concert, Please check our website for more details. (334) 277.7380 rholman@spinosoreg.com or bsims@spinosoreg.com eastdale-mall.com

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Christmas Open House December 14 919 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 10:30-11:30 a.m. Come join us as we celebrate Christmas with our Christmas Open House. (334) 264.4222 thefitzgeraldmuseum.org

Thomas Event Innovations Presents its 1st Annual Masquerade Ball

December 14 2815 Forbes Drive Montgomery, AL 36110 Tickets are $25 for tickets. Must be 25 or older to attend. Come in your best Masquerade. Prizes for Best Dressed Male and Female. (334) 231.4990

Aldersgate UMC: Christmas Musical and Christmas Eve Services

December 15 & 24 6610 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Christmas Song Musical and Live Nativity Aldersgate Sanctuary, Sunday, December 15 at10:30 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. Tuesday, December 24, 3 and 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service (334) 272.6152 office@aldersgateumc.org aldersgateumc.org

Glenn Miller Holiday Concert featuring Airmen of Note

December 18 @ Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL Annual Glenn Miller Holiday Concert. This year’s performance is free to the public. Will be accept-

www.riverregionparents.com

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ing 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) 241.9567 troy.edu/davistheatre

Holiday Pops Concert

December 19 @ 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) 240.4004

2019 Capital City Christmas Parade

December 20 @ Downtown Montgomery, AL 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.

Christmas Eve “Bumble Rumble Fun Run”

December 24 @ Montgomery Multi Sport 8107 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Join us Christmas Eve morning for our group run of 3.5 miles with sweet treats to greet you upon your finish. Don’t forget to bring and wear your best Christmas spirit. Anxious to the run the route? Join us every Tuesday night at 6 p.m. for our weekly group runs from the MMS Run Shop. (334) 356.7271 Facebook/Montgomery Multi Sport Group Runs

Old Alabama Town Holiday Open House

301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 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

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Roaring 20’s New Year’s Eve Party

December 21 @ Taylor Road Baptist Church 1685 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 7 p.m. A service of remembrance and hope for those grieving the loss of loved ones.

December 31 @ F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum 919 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 Once in a lifetime event to ring in the 20’s at the Fitzgerald home. The party will feature a tent with a dance floor on the lawn with heaters. Music in the Piano room, professional photo booth, Hors D’Oeuvres and drinks and a champagne toast at midnight.

(334) 271.3363 trbc@taylorroad.org taylorroad.org

(334) 264.4222 thefitzgeraldmuseum.org

(334) 625.2118

montgomeryal.gov

Taylor Road Baptist Church Presents “The Longest Night”

Prattville

First Baptist Church ad on page 52

138 South Washington St. December 14 & 15 The Carols of Christmas, 5 pm December 24 Christmas Eve Service, Time TBA (334) 365.0606

www.fbcprattville.org

City of Prattville Artist’s Market

November 16 @ Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery 342 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067 10 am – 2 pm. Local artists will gather to sell their artwork in the beautiful art garden by the Creek Walk at the Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery. ! (334) 595.0854

facebook.com/prattaugaartguild

Prattauga Art Guild Holiday Open House

November 17 @ Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery 342 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067 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! (334) 595.0854

artguild.prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

December 5 @ 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

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www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

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

December 6 @ Autauga County Courthouse Prattville, AL 36067 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

City of Prattville Holiday Art Workshops

December 7 @ Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery 342 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067 10 am – 1:30 pm. The Prattville Creative Arts Center will host a free holiday art workshop for children to create handmade Christmas cards with a printmaking technique. Children can drop in between 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and create holiday cards. The workshop is free and all supplies are furnished. (334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

Annual Christmas Concert by Prattville Community Chorus and Prattville Pops

December 13 @ Doster Community Center 424 South Northington St Prattville, AL 36067 Enjoy a Christmas Concert featuring the Community Chorus and the Prattville Pops at 7 p.m. 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 Nutcracker Ballet”

December 14 @ Jeff State Performing Arts Theatre Clanton, AL 35045 2 p.m. The Nutcracker is based on the story about a young girl, Clara, who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a battle against the Mouse King. Dancing the role of Clara in is an aspiration of many young ballerinas. Eleven-year-old, Campbell Elizabeth Webb’s commitment and passion for ballet landed her the role in Prattville’s Nutcracker Ballet! She is the daughter of Denise Tracy Webb and Michael Webb and attends Daniel Pratt Elementary School. Campbell, who has danced since she was three years old says, “The honor of dancing the role of Clara in the Nutcracker is a dream come true!” (334) 467.8603 ballerinasrule@msn.com cjsdancefactory.com

City of Prattville’s A Main Street Christmas

December 17 @ Downtown Prattville 5:30 – 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

River Region Parents I November 2019

Wetumpka

City of Wetumpka Christmas Decoration Contest

City of Wetumpka Christmas on the Coosa ad on page 77

December 14 Wetumpka, AL 36092 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Christmas extravaganza with Breakfast with Santa, arts & crafts, car show, parade, food, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. (334) 567.4811 wetumpkachamber.com

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

November7-9 @ Wetumpka Civic Center 410 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 November 7th from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Friday, November 8th from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and November 9th 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 Facebook/ Charis Crafters

Wetumpka Depot presents: “One Christmas Carol”

December 5-6 @ Wetumpka Depot 300 S Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Please call or visit our website for ticket information and pricing.

(334) 868.1440 kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com wetumpkadepot.com

Downtown Dickens Christmas and Tree Lighting

December 6-7 @ Downtown Wetumpka 5-8 p.m. Downtown Wetumpka will be transformed into a magical Dickens Christmas village. Friday night the “lamplighter” will walk through town and touch the business doors and the stores will magically light up. He will end at the court house steps where the City Christmas tree will be lit. Father Christmas will be in the Chamber of Commerce dressed in full Victorian costume for pictures. There will be goodies and a professional photographer all of which are free of charge. There will be: carriages, a pop-up artists holiday market, a pop-up yarn shop, wood carvers, blacksmiths, a Christmas tree walk in the snow with pages from the Legend of the Christmas tree on signs to lead visitors thru town, luminaries, Victorian dancers, carolers, candle-making and EVERYONE will be in Dickens costume! (334) 567.5147 wetumpkachamber.com

Wetumpka Depot presents: “A Little House Christmas”

December 12-20 @ Wetumpka Depot 300 S Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 It’s eight days before Christmas and everyone is coming to the Ingalls to celebrate. When the rising creek washes away the bridge, it seems like Santa won’t be able to make it! But… Christmas is a times for miracles, and as the storm rages on, the Ingalls come together and discover the true meaning of Christmas. Based on the Little House on the Prairie book series by Laura Ingalls Wilder. (334) 868.1440 kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com wetumpkadepot.com

December 12 Wetumpka, AL 36092 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

Millbrook Christmas Music and Tree Lighting

December 5 @ 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 7 @ Sports Complex behind Smokehouse BBQ and ends at 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. Vendors will be set up at Village Green Park from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; there will be arts, crafts, and food. This is one of the great things about living in a small community - family fun, not too crowded and loads of excitement for everyone. No admission fee. (334) 285.7232 cityofmillbrook.org

Tallassee Christmas Tree Lighting December 6 @ Veterans Park 5:30 p.m. at Veterans Park.

(334) 283.5151 tallassee-al.gov

Holiday Market

December 6-7 @ Veterans Park Holiday Market will be from 11:30-7 on Friday and 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday. (334) 283.5151 tallassee-al.gov

Holiday Parade

December 7 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

Lake Martin/Alex City Alexander City Holiday Open House

November 17 @ Main Street Alexander City, AL 35010 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 mainstreetalexandercity.org

Alexander City Holiday Market

November 23 @ Main Street Alexander City, AL 35010 Enjoy a Special Farmer’s Market geared towards the Holidays. (256) 329.9227 mainstreetalexandercity.org

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Christmas at Crossroads

November 29 @ Russell Crossroads 19 Russell Farms Road Lake Martin, AL 35010 9:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. The Jolly Elf will make his way from the North Pole to the Green Stage at Russell Crossroads on Saturday, November 29th!! Santa will arrive by carriage around 10am and will be in place until around 2. On the Town Green, in addition to the Holiday Bazaar, there will be tons of arts and crafts for the children to make and games for them to play! Come spend Black Friday at Russell Crossroads with Santa and a whole lot more! (256) 397.1019 russelllandsonlakemartin.com

Holiday Bazaar

November 29 @ Russell Crossroads 19 Russell Farms Road Lake Martin, AL 35010 9 a.m until 3 p.m. Artisans and patrons from all over gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! (256) 397.1019 tmitchell@russelllands.com russelllandsonlakemartin.com

Alexander City “12 Days of Christmas” Christmas Parade

December 2 @ Downtown Alexander City Alexander City, AL 35010 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)234.3461 alexcitychamber.com

Birmingham and North Christmas Village Festival

November 1-3 @ Jefferson Convention Complex 2100 Richard Arrington Blvd. Birmingham, AL 35210 Friday-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. (205) 836.7178 christmasvillagefestival.com

Christmas Craft Show

November 8-9 @ Gardendale Civic Center 857 Main St. Gardendale, AL 35071 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 23-December 31 @ McWane Science Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL 35203 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

McWane Science Polar Express P.J. Party

December 6 @ McWane Science Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL 35203 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

Alabama Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”

December 13-15 and 20-22 @ Leslie S. Wright’s Fine Art Center, Samford University 2726 1st Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233 Alabama Ballet is proud to present George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® as one of only eight companies 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 35203 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

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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

North Pole Express Train Rides

November 15-17, 22-24, 29-30, December 1, 6-8 @ Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 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

November 30, December 7 and 14 @ The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 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

December 21, 26-28 and January 2-4 2325 Mill Ridge Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Program will run everyday except Thanksgiving Day or the day after. 7:00 a.m. thru 6 p.m. Please call for more information. (334) 279.8666

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YMCA Goodtimes Holiday Childcare

hodrrm.org

Eclectic Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas

December 1 - 8 1733 Claud Road Eclectic, AL 36024 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

Eufaula Eufaula Christmas Tour of Homes

December 7 Eufaula, AL 36027 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. (334) 687.3793 eufaulapilgrimage.com

Just for Kids YMCA Camp Chandler Holiday Camps

December 20 - 22 1240 Jordan Dam Road Wetumpka, AL 36092 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) 229.0035 jikner@ymcamontgomery.org ymcamontgomery.org

River Region Parents I November 2019

Out of State/Georgia “A Tuna Christmas”

December 12-22 @ Springer Theatre 103 Tenth Street Columbus, GA 31901 Over the past eighteen years, 45,000 otherwise normal people have paid perfectly good money to see two grown men in pantyhose. (Also cowboy hats, dresses, overalls and bouffant hairdo’s). Two extraordinary comic actors portray twentyone inhabitants in “Texas’ third-smallest town”, Tuna, where the annual Christmas yard-display contest has been plagued by a vandal known only as the Christmas Phantom. Socialite Vera Carp hopes to win for the fifteenth year in a row but she has stiff competition from Didi Snavely, the owner of Didi’s Used Weapons and the sassy Tastee Kreme waitresses Inita Goodwin and Helen Bedd. Columbus’ most popular show and a genuine Holiday cult favorite. (706) 327.3688 springeroperahouse.org

River Center for Performing Arts Presents: A Cantus Christmas

December 17 @ River Center for Performing Arts 900 Broadway Columbus, GA 31901 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.

Annual Fantasy In Lights

November 15- January 4 @ Callaway Gardens 17800 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, GA 31822 The most spectacular holiday light and sound show in the south begins November 16- Jan. 5! Nestled amidst wooded landscape of Callaway Gardens, Fantasy In Lights is the Southeast’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show with more than eight million twinkling lights celebrating the holiday season. This spectacular show has attracted almost two million visitors since it opened in 1992. With more than a dozen larger-than-life lighted scenes, Fantasy In Lights remains unique in that its scenes are customdesigned 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 16 – February 23 @ Stone Mountain Park 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA 30083 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-of-the-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

Stone Mountain Christmas

November 16 - January 5 @ Stone Mountain Park 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA 30083 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 22 – December 30 @ Lake Lanier 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 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. (470) 323.3440 lakelanierislands.com mp

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Games on the Go In a kid’s world increasingly dominated by electronic screens, it’s helpful to have portable play options to hand when there’s time to occupy. Games help children think strategically, solve problems creatively and develop social skills, such as following rules, playing with others and taking turns. Before they default to the lure of console or phone gaming, be prepared to point kid’s attention toward more active endeavors that can engage them in seconds. Access to active play resources can be the difference between wasted time versus time well spent. The

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

following items offer games and activities that are easy to set up and ready to go in seconds.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Table Tennis to Go

Pop-Up Soccer Goals

Love table tennis but hate the hassle of installing the table, unwinding nets and trying to find the paddles and balls? Now, you can play pingpong anytime, anywhere with just an unoccupied table! The versatile Table Tennis To Go set from Franklin Sports makes it easy to turn any table into a ping pong venue. With a sturdy retractable and expandable net that clamps securely to table edges, the scene is easily set for play. The set includes two balls and two paddles, so you only need players to swing into instant table tennis mode! The drawstring mesh bag keeps the components together, portable, and ready to bring ping-pong play to table surfaces anywhere!

For parents of budding soccer allstars, getting to the field for on-demand play can be a challenge. GoSports Pop-Up Soccer Goals offer an easy, portable solution for soccer practice anywhere. The goals don’t require assembly, but rather ‘pop’ open for immediate use, close with a twist and fold for compact flat storage. Crafted with nylon fabric and netting that can withstand even the strongest shots, the goals can be staked into grass (stakes included) or taped/ weighted for play on a hard surface. This set includes 2 foldable 4’ goals, plus 6 orange cones for agility training or marking boundaries. Ready for goal practice, goalie-less games, skills training, backyard setups and more, just bring your own ball and soccer play is ready when you are.

(Franklin Sports)

(GoSports)

HX40 Air Hockey Table

Premium Wooden Ring Toss

The most popular tabletop sport in the arcade now comes in a portable version that puts competitive air hockey right at your fingertips. Powered by an AC-12V motor, electric fans provide powerful, quiet and uniform airflow for a smooth and frictionless playing surface. Rubber pads on the table feet protect tabletops and wood floors from scratches allowing for vigorous gameplay. The goal boxes easily return the puck and have manual scorers above to keep track of who is winning the game. Measuring 40”L x 20”W x 5”H, the table weighs just 14 pounds and comes with an AC adapter, two fastaction round pucks, and two plastic strikers. Perfect for home, office, rec room, or gaming spaces.

A fast path to unplugged game play includes the GoSports Premium Wooden Ring Toss set, an update to the traditional lawn game that brings family and friends together (indoors or outdoors) for an engaging play that requires no batteries! The game is sturdily crafted using solid pine wood for the colorfully marked targets and robust rope for the four toss rings. The compact canvas carrying case ensures easy storage and portability. Featuring five scoring towers with varying point scores, game play also introduces basic math skills while fostering hand-eye coordination in younger players. A centuries-old game for solo or group play, the GoSports Premium Wooden Ring Toss (with a lifetime warranty) reboots a beloved all-ages game that’s here to stay.

(Sports Squad)

(GoSports)

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

River Region Parents I November 2019

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The Addams Family

Gemini Man

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: CSexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A Everyone’s favorite creepy clan is back, this time in an animated feature film, made more horrifying by its 3D option. Fans of macabre mayhem will be pleased to know that the Addams family are still their strange, scary selves: Morticia (voiced by Charlize Theron) uses her late parents’ ashes as cosmetics, Wednesday (voiced deadpan by Chloe Grace Moretz) guillotines her dolls, Pugsley (voiced by Finn Wolfhard) sets off explosives instead of training in swordsmanship. The plot of this film turns on two points: Pugsley’s fast approaching coming-of-age ceremony - the Addams mazurka - and the desire of Margaux (voiced by Allison Janney) a property developer/reality TV host to sell the homes she has designed and built in the neighboring community. But the Addams’ gloomy mansion stands in her way. Although there are a few laughs and some action sequences, much of the movie crawls like a cortege on its way to the cemetery. If you’re looking for a movie to make you laugh, don’t expect side-splitting comedy. Although The Addams Family has frightening moments aplenty, none of them are gory. There are crossbows, guillotines, an electric chair, and explosives but no one is harmed by them. There are also lots of ominous moments involving eerie settings, ghostly sounds, and menacing music. Sensitive children and preschoolers will be upset by the frightening scenes, but most kids will shrug off the scares and laugh.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: CSexual Content: AProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: C Henry Brogan (Will Smith) has been an assassin for an American intelligence agency for most of his adult life. The effects on him are adding up – insomnia, nightmares, and guilt – so he decides it’s time to retire. Unfortunately, it’s much harder to get away from his past than it was to get into it. Things only get more complicated when he realizes the shooter the agency has sent after him is...himself. With the help of Danny, who is the agent responsible for tailing him and is played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and his old friend Baron (Benedict Wong), Henry has to confront himself and the system that made him. The movie was shot at 120 frames per second (industry standard is 24), and then modified for 3D. Sometimes this works fantastically well. But when the camera starts moving quickly, suddenly you’re strapped into your seat for Ultra-3D Vomit Vision. This isn’t a movie for the dizzy or easily nauseated. The fight choreography is well done, for the most part. Sequences are memorable, easy enough to track, and have interesting adaptations to the settings and situations. The story is admittedly inferior. It’s very predictable, and not much happens that you wouldn’t have called twenty minutes in advance. That said, I don’t think Gemini Man was going out of its way to blow you away with slick dialogue and clever plotting. The story is an excuse for Will Smith to beat himself up on two different continents, and it delivers. Gemini Man is well rated at PG-13. The violence is what you’d expect and there are about a dozen moderate profanities and one sexual expletive.

High Strung Free Dance

Maleficent: Mistress of Evil

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: B+ Sexual Content: B Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: AWhen you’re driven to perform, chances are you’re aiming for the bright lights of Broadway. High Strung Free Dance tells the story of three artists chasing fame on the Great White Way. Choreographer Zander (Thomas Doherty) has smoldering good looks, an upper-class British accent, a firm belief in his own genius, and an apparently brilliant dance show he’s bringing to Broadway. And to make the show a smash hit, he needs to get the casting exactly right. Charlie (Harry Jarvis) is a brilliant young pianist desperately looking for work as a musician. Then one night, after getting hit by a car, he sees a lovely young woman, and his luck turns. Barlow (Juliet Doherty) is a beautiful, doe-eyed young dancer who’s making ends meet as a telemarketer while she gets cut from one audition after another. When her roommate disappears, having absconded with three months’ worth of rent, Barlow gets an eviction notice. Desperation makes her bold, and when she’s cut from Zander’s audition, she makes a gutsy attempt to get hired on the show. Parents considering High Strung Free Dance for their dance-mad tweens and teens can be reassured by the very mild content issues. The biggest issue in this movie is the Barlow-Zander plotline. When Zander offers his employee a ride, when he gives her the lead role and then kisses her, when he has a sexually charged dance with her, he is crossing some critically important lines in a post-#MeToo world. Parents are likely to be disturbed by Zander’s selfish treatment of a vulnerable young woman in his employ.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A In Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, Angelina Jolie reprises the role she created in 2014’s Maleficent. But this sequel is a significant departure from the first film. Maleficent was a surprisingly dark film for a Disney production. The sequel has a more intricate plot but it’s set in a simpler emotional context, which makes it feel more like what you’d expect in a family film. Maleficent: Mistress of Evil opens happily. Aurora (Elle Fanning) is blithely ruling the Moors and has accepted Prince Philip of Ulstead’s (Harris Dickinson) request for her hand. Telling the parents doesn’t go as well as the proposal – Maleficent is incensed and Queen Ingrith (Michelle Pfeiffer) reluctantly agrees to welcome the foster-daughter of a non-human into her life. When the two families meet for dinner, tempers flare, King John (Robert Lindsay) collapses (apparently cursed), and Aurora must choose between her godmother and mother-in-law-to-be. Although Aurora and Philip’s engagement sets the narrative in motion, they are almost peripheral figures in this movie, which boils down to the conflict between Maleficent and Queen Ingrith. There’s only one truly evil character, and (hint) it isn’t Maleficent. If you enjoy movies with deliciously wicked villains, you’re going to have a blast with this one. There are many moments of darkness and peril which render this production unsuitable for preschoolers and young children. Older kids will likely enjoy this film with its fast-moving action and you might even get teens to watch it.

River Region Parents I November 2019

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Tonya Speed Dancers Compete in DYW

Erin Jefferson and Madison Parker competed in the Distinguished Young Women program and both were chosen as Honorable Mention talents. These girls have been dancing together at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection since pre-school. Jefferson performed a contemporary piece and Parker did a tap dance. Sarah Bush, a teacher at TSDC, choreographed the Little Sister routine and the studio had three current dancers participate as DYW little sisters: Gaia Moore, Amy Treloar and Christiana Taylor.

Wetumpka Depot Hosts Special Needs Costume Party; Seeks Mentors for Program!

Wetumpka Depot Players hosted its first Penguin Project Costume Party and Festival October 24. Many thanks to our Penguin Project team and our community groups for pitching in to create a fun festival complete with facepainting, games and hayrides! The Depot’s Penguin Project is an outreach that pairs special needs kids with a nondisabled mentor who work together to put on a show. We need more mentors! Mentors should be no younger than 10 years old and no older than 21. A mentor kick-off pizza party and parent meeting will be held November 7 from 5:30-7 p.m., and mentor training will be held November 21 from 5:30-7 p.m. Rehearsals begin in January (Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-7 p.m.) for High School Musical, which will be performed May 15-17. For more info on how to participate as a performer, mentor or volunteer, e-mail penquinproject@wetumpkadepot.com.

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Johnson’s Martial Arts Wins Big in Georgia

On September 28, David Johnson and twelve of his Tae Kwon Do students from Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy competed in the Southern National Karate Championships and were very successful in their fighting, forms and weapons divisions. The tournament was held at Columbus High School in Columbus, Ga. The 2019 champions are Caleb Vaughn, Eric Huey, Dorian Jackson, Samuel Fairure, Elysia Lewis, Instructor David Johnson, Chase Chisholm, Noah Chisholm, Logan Wilkerson, Aysa Dorsey, Kumora Levert, Frederick Crittenden, Byron Dixon and Coach Briana Jackson (not pictured).

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If you are considering signing your child up for a team sport, but have reservations about the investment of your time and money, consider the benefits it can have for your child. Team sports provide the opportunity for your child to get some exercise and also provide the opportunity for social interaction and growth in their self confidence.

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River Region Parents I November 2019

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Encourages a life outside school

“Our middle daughter really struggles academically, but excels in sports.” says Stefanie Eubanks, mother of three from Olathe. “Sports give her such confidence and they really help her self esteem tremendously!” Kids can feel like their lives revolve around school and people they interact with while there. Playing community sports gives them the opportunity to meet people outside of their immediate social circle and gives them confidence to develop friendships in new situations.

Become part of a team

Working together for a common goal and achieving it helps build a strong bond between teammates. “Team sports help kids identify their place on the team even if they aren’t the star player. It also teaches compassion and empathy when teammates make mistakes.” says Kara Thomas, a Colorado Springs mother. Kids who are part of a sports team learn to cheer each other on and feel the same support from their teammates during the game. They will also learn sportsmanship, compassion when someone gets hurt, and how to get along with teammates, even when they don’t like each other. The ability to work as a team is a skill they will use throughout life in school, at work, and even in a family unit.

Praise from coaches and other players

Everyone likes to hear praise for their efforts and hard work. Receiving praise from coaches and other players as they make improvements is much different than a pat on the back from mom or dad. Kids who play sports have the opportunity to set goals and celebrate as they meet these goals both individually and as a team.

Appreciation of diversity

Team sports draws children from all religions, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Working towards a common goal unifies the group, and differences that may otherwise separate us become less important as the team works together.

Character building

You can’t always be the winner in team sports. Kids learn to lose, good sportsmanship and how to be empathetic when your teammates make mistakes. Jim Carrier, soccer coach and father of two says, “I wanted them to learn to win graciously, lose without losing, how to work together, support their teammates, a good work ethic, the joy of victory, confidence, and leadership skills. And most importantly, a place they belong.” Kids in all levels of sports, competitive or recreational, have the opportunity to gain priceless benefits that will last a lifetime. mp Sarah Lyons is a frequent contributor and has been published in more than 100 parenting publications.

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FamilyCalendar Friday, November 1

Viewing of Pike Road’s Annual Hay Bale Decorating Contest -- Through November 3 All Pike Road neighborhoods, businesses, and organizations are invited to participate in this fall-favorite event. For more info, e-mail katy@pikeroad.us.

Saturday, November 2

Montgomery Zoo Volunteer Serve Day 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Volunteer groups will accomplish several tasks, including landscaping, trimming bushes, planting flowers, raking leaves, painting, and overall prepping the Zoo for upcoming events. Volunteers ages 12-16 years old must be accompanied by a parent / legal guardian or a designated group chaperone. Volunteers under the age of 19 must obtain parent / legal guardian permission to volunteer. For more info, visit https:// www.montgomeryzoo.com/ or call (334) 625-4900. Pike Road Arts & Crafts Fair 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 890 Old Carter Hill Rd., Pike Road. Decorative crafts, functional crafts, jewelry, mixed media, paintings, photography, pottery/ceramics, BBQ, home-baked goods, sweets and hands-on crafts for children. For more info, visit www.pikeroadartsandcraftsfair.com/. Guided Nature Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook -- Also November 23 10 a.m. Hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced ANC naturalist by your side. Learn how to bird or ID plants and animals, splash through the creek, or catch insects in the meadow! General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Old Cahawba: If Bugs Could Talk 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook. com/oldcahawba. Admission is $8/person. Michael’s Kids Club at EastChase -Also November 9 & 16 10 a.m.-noon. Sign up in store or online, or just drop in. Parent or guardian must remain on premises during the event. $3 for supplies. Snowman Ornament Nov. 2; Paper Christmas Decor Nov. 9; and Snowman Cookies Nov. 23. For more info, visit www.michaels.com. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop -- Also Nov. 30 9 a.m.-noon. All locations. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Nov. 2 project is an American eagle. Assemble the bird’s basic shape and its wings, then add fun stickers. Paint the piece to bring it to life, and then build the base to help your bird stand tall. Nov. 30 project is a stocking ornament. For more info, visit http:// homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops.

Sunday, November 3

Pike Road Veterans Appreciation Ceremony Music by the Capitol Sounds will begin at 1:30 p.m., and the ceremony will begin at 2. Pike Road Veterans Memorial at Veterans Park, 4902 Pike Rd. This event will feature the Veterans Walk of Honor, the dedication of new commemorative bricks installed in the Veterans Memorial, the Presentation of Colors by the Auburn University Montgomery ROTC Honor Guard, and remarks by distinguished guest speaker Maj Derrick H. Burks, Director of Operations, 24th Training Squadron, Air Force

River Region Parents I November 2019

Officer Training School. Pike Road Schools students will assist at the event. RSVP on Facebook. For more info, call (334) 272-9883. Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Presents We the People: Alabama’s Defining Documents, An Exhibition of Alabama’s Six Constitutions -- Through December 31 Admission is always free. This exhibition will explore how these documents, some of the most important in state history, reflect their framers’ values, hopes and fears. The public is invited to a ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday, November 3, at 1 p.m. During the exhibition, the Museum of Alabama will offer extended hours on Tuesday and Thursday evenings November 5-December 12, excluding Thanksgiving week. ADAH staff will offer gallery talks on these evenings beginning at 6 p.m. The ADAH’s Museum Store will also be open. For more info, visit www.wethepeoplealabama.org or call (334) 353-3312.

Tuesday, November 5

opportunities to special needs students. Each special needs student is paired with a mentor student. Mentors should be no younger than 10 years old and no older than 21. Mentor training will be held November 21 from 5:30-7 p.m. Rehearsals begin in January (Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-7 p.m.) for High School Musical, which will be performed May 15-17. For more info, e-mail penguinproject@ wetumpkadepot.com. Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -Also Nov. 14 & 21 2:30-3 p.m. ArtWorks at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the arts of different cultures. ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing, and traditions of the country in focus (this month is Canada). 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/.

The Adam Ezra Group with Becky Folmar & Bama Sound 7 p.m. The Capri Theatre. Tickets are $12. For tickets or more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Disney On Ice Presents Dream Big at BJCC Legacy Arena -- Through November 10 Various times. Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center Legacy Arena. Tickets begin at $60. For tickets or more info, visit https://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.

Wednesday, November 6

Friday, November 8

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public Noon-1 p.m. The first Wednesday of each month. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water provided. Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also November 20 & December 4 Noon-1 p.m. Each Artful Yoga session will draw inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the Museum. Led by instructor Nancy Beale, the class is free and suitable for all levels; beginners are welcome. Bring your yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ discover/artful-yoga/ or call (334) 240-4333. Alabama Frontier Days at Ft. Toulouse/Ft. Jackson -- Through November 9 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wetumpka. Living history demonstrations of military, Indian, and civilian life take place throughout the day. Re-enactors are dressed and equipped as they appeared in North America. $10 admission for adults, per day. $7 admission for children. For more info, call (334) 567-3002 or visit https://fttoulousejackson.org/frontierdays/.

Thursday, November 7

Theatre AUM Presents The Seagull -Through Nov. 9; also Nov. 14-17 7:30 p.m. performances except one 2 p.m. matinee Nov. 17. $10 general admission; $5 senior citizen, non-AUM students, and military (with ID); and free for AUM students, faculty, staff, and alumni (with AUM ID). For reservations or more info, contact Katie at (334) 244-3632 or kpearso2@aum.edu. Mentor Kick-Off Pizza Party/Parent Meeting for Penguin Project 5:30-7 p.m. Penguin Project is a branch of the Wetumpka Depot Theatre that provides theatre

MPAC Presents Gary Allan 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $49. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Groovin’ in the Garden at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 7 p.m. Experience a new annual concert featuring regional bands in the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden. General admission. $20 tickets. For more info, visit https:// mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. Parents Night Out at United Gymstar & Cheer 6100 Brewbaker Blvd, Montgomery. 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. $25 for the first child / $20 for each additional sibling! Ages 5 to 12. Pizza and drinks provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits, and more! Call 334-284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walk-ins welcome (until maximum capacity is reached). Jim Malcolm Performs 8 p.m. The Capri Theatre. Malcolm is one of the most distinctive voices in Scottish music. Tickets are $20. For tickets or more info, visit www.capritheatre. org or call (334) 262-4858. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also November 22 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. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

Saturday, November 9

Alabama Nature Center Rocks! 10 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

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FamilyCalendar good for children and adults alike. All materials 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. Pike Road Arts Council Christmas Tree Silent Auction -- Through November 23 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays; 1-4 p.m. Sundays. Pike Road Arts Center, 944 Walllatatchie Rd. Donate a decorated tree at the Pike Road Arts Center through Nov. 8. Trees should be artificial and no more than 4 ft tall. Then visit the PRAC to bid on a tree and participate in Christmas crafts each weekend. The silent auction will close on Nov. 23 at 4 p.m. You do not have to be present to win! For more info, e-mail patty@pikeroad.us. AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also November 23 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. 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. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at

the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/events/1374454692792666 /?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and 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. Second Saturdays at Old Alabama Town 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Second Saturdays bring special programs for the whole family including crafts, music and lectures! This month we celebrate Montgomery’s Bicentennial a few days early with costumed interpreters, vendors and more. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com/.

Sunday, November 10

MPAC Presents Alice Cooper 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Alice Cooper pioneered a grandly theatrical brand of hard rock that was designed to shock. Tickets begin at $47. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Montgomery Zoo Veterans’ Appreciation Week Through November 16 9 a.m.-4 p.m. During Veterans’ Appreciation Week, all veterans, active duty military personnel, and their dependent family members receive a 50% DISCOUNT on REGULAR DAYTIME admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. For more info, visit https://www.montgomeryzoo.com/ or call (334) 625-4900. Second Sundays at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Family Art Affair, Jazz Jams, and our popular docent-led Sunday tours. Second Sundays are designed to engage visitors of all ages through

art-making, music, and exploration. Drop in anytime between 2 and 4 for this free offering. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

Monday, November 11

Elmore County’s 11th Annual Tribute to Veterans Concert & Gallery of Honor 4 p.m. Gallery of Honor opens; 6:30 p.m. Concert begins. Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231N, Wetumpka. This year we will memorialize RM3 Edsel “Ed” Oneal Chalker and present his family with an Alabama Flag flow over the Alabama State Capitol recognizing his service during the Korean War. TSGT Jessie C. Parker will be honored and presented a U.S. flag by Boy Scout Troop 50 during the program for his service during Korea. The Madrigal Voices of Montgomery will perform, under the direction of Gene Davis. Attendance is free. Any veteran needing assistance with transportation to and from the event should contact Christy Cooper at (334) 567-7534. Veterans Day Ceremony at Pineview Memorial Gardens 11 a.m. 2325 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka. Hosted by VFW Post 4572. Wetumpka Scouts will post American Flags on all military graves prior to the ceremony. A luncheon will be hosted immediately after the ceremony at VFW Post 4572, 100 Otter Track Road, Wetumpka.

Wednesday, November 13

Suicide Awareness/ Prevention Event 6:30-7:30 p.m. Millbrook Civic Center. Robinson Springs UMC and Millbrook First UMC are hosting this evening for area youth, parents and concerned citizens to dialogue about suicide awareness/ prevention. Rebecca Ellis, the Cole Ellis Foundation, and Alisa Jones, Hope City Counseling, will bring a powerful message of reality and hope. For more info, call (334) 285-2488 or visit www.hopecitycounseling. com/the-cole-ellis-foundation.

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FamilyCalendar Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

Thursday, November 14

Capri Theatre Presents Sixteen Candles 7:30 p.m. It’s Sam’s 16th birthday, and she’s the only one who remembers. Things are looking up, though, because it turns out popular senior Jake might actually like her. Now, if her sister’s wedding would just stop screwing everything up. Or... maybe... setting things up? For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. ADT Presents Special Mistletoe Performance for Military and First Responders 7 p.m. Davis Theatre in Montgomery. A Montgomery holiday tradition featuring “Favorite Dances of Christmas” & “Messiah” with music by George Frideric Handel accompanied by the Montgomery Chorale. The performance is open to all active duty, retirees, reserve and National Guard military personnel, active and retired first responders, and their families who present a valid government/military ID card at the door. Tickets are available at the door the night of the performance and at Maxwell/Gunter ITT. For more info, visit alabamadancetheatre.com or call (334) 625-2590.

Friday, November 15

MPAC Presents The Gaither Vocal Band 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band are hitting the road this fall on their brand-new We Have This Moment Tour. Join them and their guests Gene McDonald, Charlotte Ritchie and Kevin Williams for an incredible evening of praise! Tickets begin at $26. For more info, visit www. mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Artist Market at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Shop local and support the River Region’s artist community. In addition to our outstanding Museum Store artists, we’ve invited some new regional artists to join the Market this year. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. Open Gym at The Armory 7-9 p.m. For ages 6-18. Students do not have to be a member but must have a waiver signed by parent. $10 per student due at registration. Last day to register is 7 p.m. Thursday prior to the event; may not register day of event. For more info, visit http:// armoryathletics.com/ or call (334) 625-2789. Alabama Nature Center Snore & Explore Camp In Through November 16 5 p.m. Friday check-in; 9 a.m. check-out Saturday. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Spend the night in the Discovery Hall where you can explore all of Alabama’s habitats from mountains and caves to the beaches at the coast. Enjoy fishing...take part in animal encounters... go on a night hike… snore along with some of our really wild educational animals, and so much more! $12/person for registration. Recommended minimum age is 6. Minimum 1 adult per 3 children. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

River Region Parents I November 2019

Saturday, November 16

U.S. Kids Golf Parent/Child Event Event 10 a.m. tee time start. Gateway Park Golf Course, 3800 Davenport Pkwy., Montgomery. Parents can team up with their young player in a fun, modified scramble format. Registration for the 9-hole event is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Adult partners must be at least 18 years old and cannot compete with more than one junior golfer. $95 per team entry fee includes greens fees, golf carts, lunch and awards. For more info, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536, quincyleonard@leogolfacademy.com or visit www. uskidsgolf.com. Christmas on the Square 9 a.m.-4 p.m., The Waters, Pike Road. $5 admission will benefit Pike Road Elementary School. For more info, e-mail christmasonthesquare@yahoo.com. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Playhouse Cabaret 7:30 p.m. Join us for an evening of songs from Broadway and beyond! Directed by Randy Foster, an ensemble of local talent sings to benefit arts education in Alabama. Tickets are $15. For more info, call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/. Prattville Artist Market 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy a fall day in the art garden next to the Prattville Creative Art Center and Gallery. Pick up holiday gifts of paintings, photography, jewelry, and more by local artists while the children work on a make-and-take art project. For more info, call (334) 595-0850. Highlight Tours 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view and latest exhibitions at the Museum with docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. These tours are free and open to the public, no reservations required. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

Sunday, November 17

Hampstead Fall Food Truck Takeover Noon-3 p.m. Hampstead Town Center. A variety of local trucks including Little Donkey, On A Roll, Wharf Casual Seafood, Smokin’ Wells BBQ, Taqueria El Campesino, Fire Meats Wood LLC, Frios Gourmet Pops, That’s My Dog and more! Enjoy craft beer, wine, and cocktails at our Town Center businesses including The Tipping Point and Taste serving Sunday Brunch. Live music. Great for all ages. Restrooms located in Town Center archway. Find us on Facebook. MPAC Presents TobyMac: The Theatre Tour 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. 7 GRAMMY Awards, 6 Gold Records from his solo career, an American Music Award, twice named Artist of the Year at the Dove awards, BMI Songwriter of the Year and numerous other accolades. “I just need U,” the lead single from The Elements, spent 12 weeks at the top of the charts making it the fastest charting single of his career. Tickets begin at $25. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Wednesday, November 20

See Me: Exploring Landscapes at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 p.m. Led by ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan, individu-

als with special needs (ages 6 and older) will explore landscapes in the galleries and then create their own landscapes. Free but registration required. Call (334) 625-4365.

Thursday, November 21

Newcomers Club Monthly Luncheon All women of the River Region are invited to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. Our guest speaker will be Sarah Kirkpatrick, YMCA fitness director. Luncheon cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, November 18, to Janie Kennett at (813) 309-0300 or JMKennett12@yahoo.com. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com for more info. Friends and Newcomers Club of Prattville/ Millbrook 9:30 a.m. at the Bradford Branch YMCA, 972 McQueen Smith Rd., Prattville. General meeting every third Thursday. All ladies welcome. November speaker will be Sarah Kirkpatrick, YMCA Fitness Director. For more info, contact Nancy at (334) 414-8185 or nschrull@ knology.net.

The Elf on the Shelf at BJCC Concert Hall 6 p.m. Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center. When the top Scout Elf of his graduating class is sent to a disconnected, multi-generational family struggling to rediscover Christmas spirit, he’s got to find a way off the shelf and into their hearts. This toe-tapping, heartwarming story of one small elf’s big impact on his adoptive family includes an exclusive invitation to Santa’s North Pole and engages audiences with a glimpse into the magical lives of Scout Elves. Tickets begin at $30. For tickets or more info, visit https://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400. 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 “Surges in the Bayou: Exploring Forces of Change in Bayou La Batre,” presented by Harriet Seacat. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Join this monthly program for Museum members during which artists share one artwork apiece and receive feedback from their peers. Enjoy light 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 bmorrison@mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4365. Cost: $50 for the series of 12 meetings or $5 drop-in fee for single meetings. Evenings in the Garden 6 p.m. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Join us for a vibrant mix of art and entertainment in the Caddell Sculpture Garden. This free event will feature outdoor yoga led by instructor Frank “Breeze” Smith, live music, and a fun art-making activity. Drinks will be available for purchase. In the event of rain, activities will be moved indoors. For more info, visit https:// mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4333. Alabama Emerging Artists Show -Through November 24 6-9 p.m. Hampstead Lido Events Space. Nineteen Alabama artists will be showing their work for one

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FamilyCalendar weekend only at Hampstead. Admission is free for all events. Mark your calendar to sip, shop, and meet the artists. Opening reception Nov. 21 with food and drink provided by The Tipping Point and Fridge to Fork. Show hours: Nov. 22 & 23: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Nov. 24: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more info, visit https:// www.hampsteadliving.com/events-calendar.

Saturday, November 23

Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party! at BJCC Concert Hall -- Also November 24 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center. Tickets begin at $15. For tickets or more info, visit https://www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.

Friday, November 29

The Holiday Bazaar at Russell Crossroads 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 19 Russell Farms Road, Alexander City. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! Contact Tyler Mitchell at tmitchell@russelllands. com for more info or visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/.

Saturday, November 30

Alabama Nature Center Turkey Day Scavenger Hunt 10 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Join us for a turkey day scavenger hunt that will give your kids something to gobble about! Daily admission is $5/ person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Ryan’s Run 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk 8-10:30 a.m. Frazer UMC JEMAC Parking Lot. Held in memory of Ryan Colburn, who was an avid sports fan and especially loved the Iron Bowl

Rivalry. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite team colors! Proceeds will go to 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. T-Shirts guaranteed until Nov. 20, available for late/day of registration only while supplies last. For more info, visit http:// frazer.church/event/ryans-run. Online registration closes Nov. 26. Day of race registration begins at 6:30 a.m.

Tuesday, December 3

Wetumpka Depot Players Present A Little House Christmas -Through December 20 7:30 p.m. public performances Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20; 2 p.m. matinee Dec. 15. Adapted by James DeVita; directed by Kristy Meanor. For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Thursday, December 5

Union Springs Red Door Theatre Presents A Double-Wide, Texas Christmas -- Through December 8 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2:30 p.m. matinee Dec. 8. Written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope & James Wooten; directed by Kim Mason. In this outrageously funny comedy, it’s Christmastime in the newest—and tiniest—town in Texas. Not only are

the trailer park residents dealing with the stress of the holiday season, but they’ve just discovered that Doublewide is being doubled-crossed by the county. Double-size your Christmas spirit because there’s no place like a Texas-sized mobile home for the holidays! Tickets are $15 and may be ordered at (334) 7388687 or www.reddoortheatre.org. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Elf: The Musical -- Through December 15 7:30 p.m. performances most days and 2 p.m. matinees Dec. 7, 8, 14 & 15. Based on the film written by David Berenbaum; directed by Pamela Trammell. For tickets and more info, visit cc.prattvilleal.gov or call (334) 595-0850. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Dancing at Lughnasa -- Through December 15 7:30 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturday; 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. Written by Brian Friel; directed by Sarah Walker Thornton. The story of five unmarried sisters eking out their lives in a small village in Ireland in 1936. We meet them at the time of the Festival of Lughnasa, which celebrates the pagan god of the harvest with drunken revelry and dancing. The story is told through the eyes of the son of one of the sisters as he remembers the five women who raised him. For more info, call (334) 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org/. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents A Christmas Carol -- Through December 15 7:30 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturdays; 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. The beloved tale of the penny-pinching miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, and the awakening of his long-forgotten festive spirit is a seasonal tradition for many. The Millbrook Theatre will revisit Charles Dickens’ ghostly tale of the Past, Present, and Future when they present Brian Way’s

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FamilyCalendar faithful adaptation of Dickens’ timeless classic.Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com/.

Friday, December 6

Capri Theatre Presents Die Hard 7:30 p.m. A heartwarming tale of Christmas, family, and not letting the bad guys win, Die Hard is just the thing to get you in the mood for the season of giving! For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Wetumpka Depot Players Present One Christmas Carol -- Through December 7 7 p.m. performances both nights; 4 p.m. matinee Dec. 7. For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot. com or call (334) 868-1440.

Saturday, December 7

Capri Theatre Presents It’s a Wonderful Life 7:30 p.m. The MidAlabama Coalition for the Homeless is partnering with the Capri Theatre for the Fourth Annual Sockball fight! Please bring a pair of clean, unused socks and join in our sockball fight before the show. All the 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. Christmas at Alabama Nature Center’s Lanark 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Enjoy hayrides, Christmas crafts, decorating cookies, a movie special and much more! Learn how to create your own nature ornament and get pictures with Santa. We will have hot chocolate for sale and plenty of activities to keep you warm. General admission applies and includes awesome events throughout the day! Daily admission is $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 -Through December 29 Written by Peter Rothstein; directed by Melissa Rain Anderson. All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 relives an astounding moment in history when Allied troops and German soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate the holiday together, sharing food and drink, playing soccer, and singing carols. This dramatic retelling weaves together firsthand accounts of 30 World War I soldiers with patriotic tunes, trench songs, and Christmas carols. Recommended ages 13+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net/ or call (334) 271-5353. Pink & Pearls for Girls Inc. Hosts ‘Family Fun Fest’ 9-11:30 a.m. Chisholm Community Center, 245 Vandiver Blvd., Montgomery. Includes music, refreshments, vendors, parent resource area and kids’ fashion show. In conjunction with Alabama Partnership for Children Smart Start, to celebrate and strengthen families through hands-on activities. For more info, please call Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091.

Sunday, December 8

Alabama Farmers Federation Presents Clay Walker 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $27. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Winter Wonderfest 2-4 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Find inspiration in the festive decor, music and treats as you make your way through the galleries. Create your

River Region Parents I November 2019

own winter-themed art projects and enjoy making a memory in our merry photo booth. The Museum Store will be open for seasonal shopping. For more info, call (334) 625-4333 or visit https://mmfa.org/.

Classes

Adoptive Parent Training Classes Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections recruits, prepares, and supports parents adopting waiting children in Alabama’s foster care. For information on adoptive parent classes or to register for classes in Alabama, contact our team at (866) 803-2722 or visit apac@ childrensaid.org. Baptist East Maternity Area Virtual Tour We invite you to visit our hospital from the comfort of wherever you are. A personal tour of Baptist Medical Center East’s Maternity Area is now just a click away. This virtual tour is designed to answer any questions you may have regarding our “familycentered maternity care.” Receive an inside look at our Labor and Delivery Suites, Newborn Nursery, Post-Partum and NICU units. From admission to discharge, this video provides all of the information you and your family needs to know. Visit www. baptistfirst.org/. Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 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) 286-3466.

Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Cloverdale Playhouse Rep Class Series Remaining 2019 dates are: December 2 from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cloverdale Playhouse Rehearsal Hall. This is a safe space to work on your craft, develop your audition skills, share your newest piece, or just get feedback on your latest artistic endeavor. Guest panels and rotating faculty ensure constant growth and a variety of insight. Even if you don’t perform every time - you can learn a lot by observing! There will be a sign-up sheet if you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions.

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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.

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FamilyCalendar Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@ alabamachild.org. Infant Car Seat Safety Inspection Baptist Health’s Certified Car Seat Safety Technician will help set your mind at ease. Expectant parents can register for a one-on-one car seat installation session tailored to your vehicle. Our goal is to ensure your confidence in a safe ride home from the hospital. Space is limited. Pre-registration required Must provide your own car seat! $10 per car seat payable at the time of inspection by cash or check. Visit www.baptistfirst.org/ or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending

Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook. com/LeaninCentralAL. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery 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 par-

ents 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 email smallwonders@baptistfirst.org or call 273-4445. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are November 20 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. Our Adoptive Family Group

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SupportGroups will start back Thursday, August 8, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Rd. We will be starting a three-part series based off the book From Fear to Love by Bryan Post. RSVP is required for this event no later than August 5. Please include number of adults attending and NAMES AND AGES OF ANY CHILDREN. Full dinner, childcare and CEU’s will be provided! 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.

Cancer Support

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

ing divorce. For more info, call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@ frazerumc.org. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125.

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 2796677. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. 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.

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.

GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is nondenominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 surround-

River Region Parents I November 2019

Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail. com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group.

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River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.

Homeschool Support

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

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. 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 2796677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. 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 Pat Cobb at (334) 279-8331. 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 Pat Cobb at (334) 279-8331 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. Overeaters Anonymous, Millbrook City Chamber of Commerce meeting room, 34531 Main Street in Millbrook. Saturdays at a.m. Trouble with food? Do you worry about the way you eat? Overeaters Anonymous can help. It’s not a diet club; it’s a fellowship of people who don’t want to suffer anymore. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compul-

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SupportGroups sively. There are no dues, fees, or weigh-ins. Visit our new meeting in the area. All are welcome! For more info, call (662) 425-2010 or visit www.oa.org.

Moms’ 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.

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ery Sunday afternoon from 3-4 p.m. at St. James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road. Call Annette Jones at (850) 5294730 or e-mail Montgomerymipac@gmail.com for more info on joining us or training to start your own group.

Parent Support

Century Church Strong Moms 9:30-11 a.m. Wednesdays. Different host homes in Pike Road’s The Waters community. The focus of this group is to build relationships between moms through Bible study, play dates, prayer and encouragement. Childcare provided for ages 2-5 years old and babies are welcome! For more info, visit https://centurychurch.churchcenter. com/groups/general-ministries/strong-moms. D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery CityCounty Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. GirlTime at East Memorial Baptist Church 9:30-11:30 a.m. 2nd Tuesdays at various locations in Prattville. GirlTime is open to ladies of all ages. Visit eastmemorial.org or call the church office at (334) 365-7500 for info. Childcare is provided at the church. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, 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 Bible study community for moms of preschoolers. It is a Frazer United Methodist Churchsupported ministry to reach moms of the community through encouragment and prayer during these early years of raising our kids. Join us for weekly Bible studies focusing on parenting, marriage, women’s studies and more. Childcare provided for newborn-K5. For more info, e-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org. Moms in Prayer International is a Christ-centered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gather to pray for their children and schools. Meets ev-

The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/ home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

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. Post-Abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the One who came to set you free. Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) For more info, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.

Single Parents Support

Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets

2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.

Special Needs Support

Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. Visit www.alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. D.A.T.S. M.O.M. (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move), a non-profit parent empowerment organization for parents of children on the autism spectrum (or with related special needs challenges) that focuses on inspiring, equipping and motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@yahoo.com for more information. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome. com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com for more info. 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@riverregionparents.com. www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

A Page in a Book The Cat’s Out of the (Book) Bag One of the most popular domesticated animals in the world, cats are often the first pet to capture a child’s imagination and love. Simultaneously affectionate and mysterious, cats deliver benefits to kids that help them grow in unexpected ways. Sharing your home with a cat can reduce the likelihood of a child developing allergies and asthma. Cats are also ideal teachers of socialization, showing children how to ‘read’ physical cues that indicate a welcome interaction or signal a need for space. Soothing or playful, loving or aloof, cats have a vibrant footprint in our shared environment. For the cat-curious, the following titles feature felines, front and center, with their own stories to tell.

Vincent Comes Home

by Jessixa Bagley and Aaron Bagley (Roaring Brook / Macmillan) As a cargo ship crisscrosses the ocean, visiting exotic ports of call, Vincent the cat moves with ease among the sailors, an unofficial member of the crew. His days filled with fresh fish, seagull chases, and the camaraderie of ship’s complement, Vincent enjoys the life of a sea-borne vagabond. But as he hears the crew talking with anticipation about returning home, Vincent begins to wonder what ‘home’ is. When the ship docks in its home port, Vincent disembarks for the first time, looking for home. Wandering through an unfamiliar world, a chance meeting suggests that Vincent has had a home all along. With crisp illustrations that celebrate the adventure of travel paired with the comfort of family, Vincent Comes Home earns its residence on every child’s bookshelf.

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Max Attacks

by Kathi Appelt, Illustrated by Penelope Dullaghan (Atheneum / Simon & Schuster) A bowl of goldfish tantalizes Max, who has a plan to attack the tempting target. With laser-like focus, he makes his stealthy approach. But, wait! The flick of a lizard’s tail on the window screen pulls Max off task as he claws his way toward a new goal. Before he can return to the fish mission, Max must navigate a houseful of swishy, flickering, dangling distractions. A catnip mouse, an errant shoestring, a basket of socks, all send Max into attack mode while the fishbowl falls down his list of priorities. Or does it? Young cat fans will share the anticipation of the bundled crouch that signals feline jump prep and delight in keeping score with Max as he chalks up his hunting ‘wins’ in a household filled with moving goals.

I Hate My Cats (A Love Story)

by Davide Cali and Anna Pirolli (Chronicle Kids) Purring at artichokes, speaking to pigeons, sticking her whole head into shoes, Ginger is the weird cat. The other feline in the house, Fred, enjoys a lazier life. He naps in every corner, his waking hours punctuated by the power of invisibility when playful (or when a vacuum is near). Together, their signature moves and moods can add up to a real challenge for the human in the house. Capturing the charisma that is unique to cats, Pirolli’s illustrations perfectly render the entertaining emotional exchange our cats share with us and style they stamp into our households. An ideal gift for cat fans of every age, I Hate My Cats (A Love Story) is an absolutely charming homage to the peculiar behaviors and eccentricities that endear our feline friends to us, even at their most maddening.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

River Region Parents I November 2019

www.riverregionparents.com

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

First Baptist of Montgomery, 17

My Kids Attic, 11

First Baptist of Prattville, 52

New Hope Academy, 34

Frazer Memorial UMC, 67

New Park, 2

Adventure Sports II, 70

Gogue Performing Arts Center, 81

Newtopia, 79

Alabama Christian Academy, 47

Guardian Credit Union, 15

Night To Shine, 61

Alabama Dance Theatre, 37

Guild Mortgage, 7

AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front

Hooper Academy, 30

Ala School of Math & Science, 9

Jackson Hospital, 59

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 85

Jeff Dickey, New Waters Realty, 65

Alpha & Omega Learning Ctr, 40

Judy Barranco Photography, 43

ASKIN/Synergy House, 75

Just for Grins - Orthodontist, 58

Autauga County Library, 75

KLynn Ice Skating School, 62

Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 21

Kingry Orthodontics, 23

Baptist Health, 49

Kreative Moments, 24

Bell Family Chiropractic, 87

Lakeview Baptist Church, 28

Bush Pediatric Dentistry, 35

Larry Chapman, ALFA Insurance, 48

Chapman Orthodontics, 30

LEAD Academy, 32

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 57

Leap Dancewear, 75

Christmas on the Coosa, 77

Learning Tree Child Care, 42

Churchill Academy, 23

Lil’ Priss Parties, 22

Cornerstone Classical Academy, 27

Macon East Academy, 71

Dentistry for Children, 40

Mathnasium, 41

Sylvan Learing of Prattville, 53

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 91

McBeal Services, 24

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 91

at. c-

Eastwood Christian School, 39

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 20

The Herb Shop, 36

EdTech Academy, 83

Montessori @ Mulberry, 19

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 58

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 4

Trinity Presbyterian School, 13

Evangel Christian Academy, 21

Montgomery Gem & Mineral Show, 65

Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 28

Eye Center South, 31

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 33

United Gymstars & Cheer, 73

Family Guidance Center, 89

Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 3

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 70

FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 20

Montgomery Zoo, 69

We Care Therapy Services, 8

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OB/GYN Associates, 51

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 57 O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 22 Pet Palace Hotel, 45 Prattville Christian Academy, 55 Prattville YMCA, 53 Professional Pediatrics, 12 RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back Resurrection Catholic School, 37 Riverview Camp for Girls, 16 Saint James School, 1 Sara Elizabeth Burnham, 75 Spotless Cleaning Services, 29 Success Unlimited Academy, 25 Sylvan Learning Center, 34

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sion to freely write our feelings, questions, and/or concerns about anything and everything. I learned so much about her and how she was feeling about various things in her life, and she learned a lot about me as well. As a single mother, it is critical to find a group of people who can help and support you through the good, the bad, and the ugly.

MP: The landscape of technology is ever-changing and is one of the greatest challenges modern parents face. When your daughter was young, did you have clear guidelines in place regarding her and technology? Kim: I think that any parent will agree that Kids + Technology = STRESS! When I decided to give my daughter her first phone, there were certain things I did to educate her about the responsibility that comes along with having this piece of equipment. We discussed internet safety, sharing personal information, texting rules, and the list goes on. I had to set ground rules for using the device. At 6 p.m. each night the phone was to be placed on the charger at the family charging station (my phone went there at a certain time too). Also she was not allowed to take the phone into the bathroom, we shared passcodes, and apps had to be approved before they were downloaded. We also had times when we were “unplugged” (no phone). Lucky for us, some “rules” have turned into habits that we still practice.

Kim Bell

MP: It’s been said that being a single mom is the hardest, but most empowering thing a woman can do. What are your thoughts on that statement?

MP: What motivates you?

Kim: Parenting is hard, even when both parents are in the household. When we remove the dad and put 100% of the responsibility on the mom, that adds another level of challenge. So yes, I agree that being a single mom is one of the hardest things a woman can do. Webster’s definition of empowered is having the knowledge, confidence, means, or ability to do things or make decisions for oneself. I was 19 when I had Kiara. I struggled financially, emotionally, and spiritually. At 19, I did not have the knowledge, confidence, means, or ability to be a mom, yet there I was, sitting in my bed, staring into the eyes of my daughter. She looked up at me with so much hope and confidence, but in that moment, I did not feel empowered. I was terrified that I was going to screw up this precious little life. That was 18 years ago. Today, I think about my daughter and all the challenges that we have overcome. I think about the young lady she has become. I think about the life I have created for us. And I can honestly say that I feel empowered. MP: What are some parenting tools you used in raising your daughter?

Kim: I am motivated by my daughter and naysayers. I was raised in a Christian family that was pretty well known in our small community, and I was a teacher’s kid (no pressure right?). So when people at church and in my community learned that I was pregnant, I heard so many negative things. People made it their business to tell me all the horrible ways my life would change because I was going to have a child. I was told I would have to drop out of college, I would lose my academic scholarship, that I had ruined my reputation, and a plethora of other negative things. At first I internalized their thoughts, I cried for months, and I was ashamed of myself. My God Mother saw what was happening and she invited me to attend church with her. Her church family was welcoming, loving, and didn’t appear to judge me at all. When the pastor finished his sermon, my God Mother grabbed my hand and we walked down to the altar, and they prayed for me. I left feeling renewed. That day I vowed to never let what someone else thought of me determine how I would feel about myself. The naysayers became my motivation. Even today, I am still motivated to prove everyone who tries to put limits on me, wrong. Kiara is also my motivation. She continually motivates me to become the best possible version of myself. She motivates me to become a woman she can emulate. She motivates me to break barriers, create my own path, and build a legacy so she can proudly say, “That’s MY Mama!”

Kim: I would not have been able to raise Kiara and finish college if it were

MP: What advice would you give other single, working moms based on

not for my family. Daycare is one of the single most expensive costs associated with having a child, and I can thank my mother and grandmother for easing my mind and relieving that burden by taking great care of my daughter while I attended school. My friends stepped up and helped tremendously in the evenings, so I could earn my graduate degree. Becoming a single mother required me to have a deeper relationship with God. I knew I needed to have a spiritual foundation in order to grow into the mother I wanted to be. My daughter and I would take trips to the bookstore almost every weekend, and one day I stumbled upon The Busy Moms Bible. This Bible was perfect for me because of the one minute starters, sections on raising kids, emotions, and relationships. When my daughter started getting older, I noticed that my once chatty little girl had become a lot more guarded and was reluctant to talk to me. I didn’t want her to shut me out of her life (as kids often do), so I did some research and found a gem! The journal Just Between Us: Mother and Daughter honestly helped save our relationship. It gave us permis-

your life experiences?

River Region Parents I November 2019

Kim: 1. Learn to say no. I used to begrudgingly agree to do things because I didn’t want to disappoint other people. When I learned to say no, I found peace. 2. Treat yourself. Stop feeling guilty for doing something nice for yourself. 3. Don’t beat yourself up. Maybe the laundry hasn’t been folded or the dishes haven’t been washed. Look at your kids. Are they smiling? Do they feel loved? You are doing an amazing job, and you should recognize that. 4. Never compare your family to others. No matter how perfect another family seems, they have issues, just like any other family. Be thankful for the family you have and never try to turn your family into the family who seems to have it all together. Kim Bell owns EdTech Academy, LLC in Montgomery. Her daughter, Kiara (18), attends LSU. In her spare time, Kim enjoys reading, crafting, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

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