Montgomery Parents November 2014 by KeepSharing

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November2014 56

Volume 19 Number 11

Columns 6 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

12 Kids Health Watch

Teaching Children Self-Control

Find advice for helping your children respond correctly to the world around them.

How to Party Healthy This Season

These practical ideas may just keep you from putting on those holiday pounds this year!

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To Tube or Not to Tube Doctors may recommend eartubes for children with frequent ear infections to prevent potential hearing loss that could cause developmental delays. Every year 667,000 children under 5 years of age have eartubes inserted, now the most common operation done under anesthesia in young children. To insert tubes, doctors make a small cut in the eardrum and slip the tiny, cylinder-like tube through it. This takes about 10 minutes. The tube allows air in and fluids out from behind the eardrum. Children cannot feel the tubes once placed. The tubes usually fall out within 6 months to 2 years, and though the holes usually close on their own, sometimes surgical closure is required. Children with tubes can still get ear infections but less frequently and are not painful, and can often be treated using only antibiotic drops. New guidelines on when to use eartubes were issued last year by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation and encourage more doctors and parents to “watch and wait” to reduce unnecessary procedures. The guidelines state that for children with frequent ear

infections, eartubes should be placed only if the middle ear contains fluid in one or both ears for at least three months, with or without an ear infection. Also a national summit on overuse concluded that presently one in five of eartube surgeries do not provide a meaningful benefit. “Watch and wait” is an appropriate approach since middle ear fluid resolves spontaneously in most children. One study showed that in children with fluid in both middle ears for 12 weeks and a documented hearing loss, eartubes improved hearing for six months. It also showed that eartubes reduce the number of ear infections in the first six months after surgery, by an average of 1.5 episodes per child. Doctors and parents desire to avoid general anesthesia on young children when possible because of side effects. Some families or medical conditions do not tolerate certain types of anesthesia. Any unusual reactions to anesthesia in close family members should be brought to the doctor’s attention. Also studies of the effects of anesthesia on young children show some evidence that reasoning ability may be impaired later in life. Though the research Isn’t conclusive, other

studies indicate the problem may be multiple exposures to general anesthesia especially for children under 12 months old. Researchers at Mayo Clinic are testing a device, to allow an alternative eartube placement procedure, using nitrous oxide instead of general anesthesia to allow doctors to open the ear drum and insert the tube at the same time. If cleared by the FDA, it may be on the market next year. Other companies are working on procedures to allow eartubes to be done in-office without general anesthesia. Only a few surgeons, in other areas of the country, now do eartube surgery without anesthesia on children up to 18 months old. The child is swaddled on a board with Velcro straps to immobilize the head and body. The immobilization is often more upsetting than the surgery. The decision on eartube surgery should not be taken lightly. Discuss this decision with your doctor and consider “watchful waiting.” However, if the child meets the clinical criteria and the family is ready to take the next step, eartubes can be effective. Dr. Allen White earned his medical degree in 1969 from Kentucky Medical School, Lexington, and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine with an office in the Goode Medical Building of Jackson Hospital before moving to the Carmichael Road location in 1986. He and his wife, Diana, have 3 sons. For pleasure, Dr. White enjoys reading, gardening and spending time with his grandchildren.

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We Are Thankful Montgomery Public Schools has a different central office structure with the goal of actively supporting the work of school administrators and staff towards improving student learning. Members from each department comprise central support teams that operate within two distinct feeder patterns. These teams are led by executive directors from the office of Instructional support. I have never seen more focused and willing efforts than those demonstrated by these leaders and teams. My hat is off to them and I applaud the process. It takes the collaborative work of all MPS staff members to achieve the goals that have been set. We are thankful for our committed staff!

Montgomery Public Schools Board of Education received an award recently for having excellent attendance at school board trainings. We are thankful for a committed school board! Selected students at LAMP and BTW received tremendous honors as National Merit and National Achievement SemiFinalists. We are thankful for students who strive for excellence. Many teachers recently earned Master’s degrees and several principal and central administrators recently earned doctorate degrees. We are thankful for teachers and administrators who demonstrate life-long learning. Auburn University at Montgomery and the local Chamber of Commerce have commitment to MPS leadership development and AUM has a K-12 outreach initiative that have been extremely beneficial to Montgomery Public Schools. We are thankful for community engagement.

I am a member of a National cohort of superintendents whose goals are to improve systems and operations in local school districts. I am thankful for the personal learning opportunity and a chance to make things better for MPS. A teacher advisory and a parent advisory have committed to meet with the superintendent quarterly. We are thankful for stakeholders who listen and contribute to a greater MPS. Each school morning the futures of 31,000 students are entrusted to nearly 4,000 MPS employees. We are thankful to be able to serve the Montgomery community with our gifts, talents, knowledge, skills and love! Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

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Trinity Volleyball Team Wins CCC Tournament

The Trinity Middle School volleyball team won the CCC tournament October 4. The girls defeated Montgomery Academy in the finals to bring home the championship. Lucy Williams was voted MVP of the tournament, while Hayden Tipton and Emma Beth Teel were named to the All-Tournament Team. The Lady Wildcats finished the season with a 21-3 record. Front row from left are: Mary Curles, Brooke Avant, Drue Walker, Lauren French and Payton Taylor; back row: Ivy Bopp, Lucy Williams, Emma Beth Teel, Mackenzie Avant, Coach Alice Gauntt, Abbie Ammons, Pressley Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ferrell and Hayden Tipton.

ACA Cross Country Advances to State

After Alabama Christian Academy named Melinda Estes the new head coach for the cross country team this year, the Eagles have advanced to state and are currently ranked second in their section. At the recent Auburn meet, the Tiger Classic, the JV Eagles brought home four medals. For the girls, Marlo Duggan won first place and Madison Parker, seventh; and for the boys, Judd Hardin won third place and Tristan Smith, fourth. The Eagles left for sectionals in Mobile October 30. Shown, three of the Eagles cross country medalists celebrate following the awards ceremony. From left are seventh-graders Marlo Duggan and Judd Hardin, and eighth-grader Tristan Smith.

Cornerstone Starts New Latin Club

The Latin II students of Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy recently formed a club that meets on Thursdays during their Latin period. Before the club had its first meeting, the students held an election to designate two consuls, Hannah Taunton and Crispin South. After the elections, the students decided which committees they would be a part of. The committees were the Praetors, the Quaestors, the Scribes, the Aediles, the Historians and Censors. Following the choosing of the committees, the club meeting began. The meeting consisted of a prayer led by the Censors, a history lesson about Rome by the two consuls and a devotional also by their Censors. The CCCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Latin Club meeting was a success! Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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STJ Forensics Team Receives Top Honors

The Saint James forensics team traveled to Holy Cross School in New Orleans the weekend of October 3 and walked away with top honors once again. In Extemporaneous Speaking, STJ senior McLean Stewart placed first, senior Pearce Barringer placed second, junior Bradley Wascher took third, and freshman Hannah Yost was a semifinalist. In Humorous Interpretation, sophomore Cassidy Duncan placed fifth and senior Michael Fritz was a semi-finalist. In Impromptu Speaking, Wascher took first place, Stewart placed second, and Barringer and Yost were semi-finalists. In Public Forum Debate, Wascher and Barringer were quarter finalists. The tournament included teams from across the nation and the Saint James team placed first in individual events and second place overall.

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Eastwood Holds 2014 Olympic Field Day

Gregg Represents MEA at Boys State

The following teams recently won victories in Eastwoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2014 Olympic Field Day activities: Most Christ-Like Trophy, Phoenicians led by Emma Howard and Gus Dozier; First Place in Athletic Competition, Titans led by Molly Pilcher and Bradley Woodham; Second Place in Athletic Competition, Spartans led by Vivian Turnbull and Claude Newsome; Third Place in Athletic Competition, Greeks led by Heather Ford and Meredith Ingels; and Poster Contest First Place, Spartans (Ruth Lucas, Vivian Turnbull and Claude Newsome); Second Place, Romans (Hannah Schaupp and Ashton White); and Third Place, Trojans (Abby Duggar and Austin Vick). The first-place winners in the athletic competition, the Titans, are shown: Libby Reed, Addison McDow, Cade Segars, Samuel Schoettker, Gracie Phillips, M.E. Grace Shuemake, Nettie Cantey, Paige Sawyer, Bradley Woodham, Grant English, Neva Schoettker, Emi Reed, Molly Pilcher and teacher Angie Markwell.

Hunter Gregg was selected as a rising senior to attend the 77th annual American Legion Alabama Boys State at the University of Alabama this summer. Boys State is one of the highest honors granted to Alabama students. Representatives from across the state are chosen based on their demonstration of leadership, hard work, strong morals, and motivation in school and community activities. At Boys State, delegates have the opportunity to participate in a mock government and meet with an array of Alabama leaders including congressmen and state elected officials, as well as business and civic leaders. Delegates participate in focus groups and learn more about individual areas of interest including law school, law enforcement, environmental interests, and local government.

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Montgomery Academy Honors 2014 Homecoming Court

Evangel Class Studies Lowry’s The Giver

A critical element of the seventh-grade curriculum at Evangel Christian Academy has been a reading project based on The Giver by Lois Lowry. As the academic year began, students began to delve into the message of Lowry’s story and a great deal of discussion was noted by class instructor/media specialist Cathy Throgmartin. The students were also able to attend a viewing of the film by the same name. The comparative analysis of the book and film drew excitement and some very interesting dialogues among the entire group.

From left are Montgomery Academy’s 2014 Homecoming Court: Sydney Kohn (9th grade), Dora Eskridge (10th grade), Olivia Rush (11th grade), Frances Freeman (12th grade), Elizabeth McGowin (12th grade), Homecoming Queen McEachern Foy (12th grade), Jillian Tinglin (12th grade), Evan Foy (11th grade), Margaret Ann Allen (10th grade) and Austyn Barnes (9th grade). Lower School attendants were: Martha Armstrong, Julia Jennings, Lillian Cameron and Sydney Haynes.

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Jeff Davis & Dannelly Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, students from Jefferson Davis High School read the popular story La Llama, Llama Rojo Pijama (Llama Llama Red Pajama) to students at Dannelly Elementary School. The book is about Baby Llama, who after he is tucked in and kissed following his bedtime story, frets about being alone in the dark. He dreams of a world filled with fantastic images and scenes, but is later reassured that “Mama Llama” is always near, even if she’s not in the room with him. The activity was sponsored by Jeff Davis Media Specialist Priscilla Collins. Daniel Montufar, Hector Herrera, Cindy Morales and Zurisadia Martinez are shown with Dannelley students.

Success Unlimited Raises the Bar

Success Unlimited Academy senior English teacher Jameelah Louis recently recognized a model student in her classroom. “When I think of someone who is hardworking, dedicated, kind, loving and determined, Britni Cottrell, a senior at SUA, definitely fits this description,” said Louis. “Since day one, she’s been nothing but consistent in her everyday routine at SUA, and her attitude is one of the many qualities that draws her to you. Always smiling, and being a leader among her peers, Britni by far sets the standard for how to successfully be a model student. She does it every day, with no questions asked.”

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Trinity Marching Band Earns Straight Superior Ratings

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After a fun and successful rehearsal in the Troy University football stadium, the Trinity Presbyterian School “Wildcat Pride” Marching Band traveled to Daleville to compete against bands from Alabama and Florida. The Marching Band received Straight Superior Ratings in all categories: Band, Color Guard, Drum Major, and Percussion. Being the third smallest band out of 14, the “Wildcat Pride” received the highest overall award of Most Entertaining Band at the end of the Awards Ceremony.

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MPS Central Office Staff Supports Cancer Awareness

Montgomery Public Schools Central Office staff observed October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month by participating in “PINK OUT the Central Office Day.” The day was an opportunity to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage employees who are fighting the disease, and salute survivors.

Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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Catholic Engineering Students Fly Drones in New Class

The new Montgomery Catholic High School Engineering Class learned how accelerometers and gyroscopes can be used in robotics during an early class meeting this fall. Catholic seniors were flying mini drones in class. “This allows the students to experiment with an accelerometer’s tilt controls based on the angular velocity measured in the tablet,” said teacher Jens Johnson. Shown learning how to fly the drones are seniors Courtney Cool, Rachel Fekete, Tiffany Do, Caitlin Smith, Gaten Armstrong, Hunter Walski, Carol Edwards, Derrick Kelly, Drew Tolar and teacher Jens Johnson. The next new class on the engineering class list is designing their new laboratory.

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ACA Math Team Competes In AMP’ed Challenge

Alabama Christian Academy’s math team consisting of eight 8th-grade math students participated in the fall Middle School AMP’d Challenge at Auburn University. The competition consisted of 12 logic and reasoning challenges designed by master’s and doctoral students at Auburn University to encourage involvement in higher level mathematics in a fun, exciting way instead of just memorizing algorithms. Out of 12 participating teams, ACA’s team finished in third place. ACA’s Math Team is shown here with sponsor Lynne Smith at the Auburn University AMP’ed Challenge: Austin Lin, Gracie Shaddix, MinGue Park, Andrew Lin, Nicholas Lacy, Timothy Jones, Mrs. Lynne Smith, Jackson Duke and Reece Solar.

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Catholic Seniors Receive Football Honors

Grandparents Day Success at Evangel

Recently elementary students at Evangel Christian Academy invited grandparents to spend some quality time with them at school. After considerable time and preparation, the K-6 students welcomed grandparents from across the tri-county area as they enjoyed lunch, a book fair, and a special chapel service where Pastor Michael Rippy, senior pastor of Evangel Church and President of ECA, provided words of appreciation for what grandparents mean in our lives.

Montgomery Catholic senior football players Reggie Jackson, below left, and Thomas “T.J.” Stokes, below right, were both honored in September for their performances on the football field. Jackson was chosen as WSFA’s athlete of the week for his performance at home on September 5 against Headland. He had 135 yards rushing, two touchdowns and forced two fumbles that night. WSFA nicknamed him “Mr. September.” Jackson is the son of Carylon and Anthony Jackson of Montgomery. Stokes was named Private School Player of the week by the Montgomery Quarterback Club for his performance September 12 against Saint James. A senior running back, Stokes rushed for 185 yards on 15 carries in Catholic’s effort against Saint James. Stokes tied a state record during the game with a 99 yard run from scrimmage for a touchdown. He was honored at the September 23 Quarterback Club meeting. Stokes is the son of Ivy and Thomas Stokes Jr. of Montgomery. Photos by Total Image

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MA Seniors Commended By National Merit Program Montgomery Academy students Christine Hong, Ted Park and Patrick Thackston have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program. Commended Students have exceptional academic promise demonstrated by their outstanding performance on the qualifying test used for program entry. More than 1.5 million students took the 2013 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test last October and entered the National Merit Scholarship Program, a nationwide competition for recognition and awards conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). In April, the 50,000 highest scores were identified to high schools. Some 16,000 of those performers were recently designated Semifinalists on a state representational basis. National Merit Scholarship Semi-finalists from The Montgomery Academy are Miso Kim, Nora Newcomb and Scott Simmons. From left are seniors Ted Park, Christine Hong and Patrick Thackston.

Fitzpatrick Enjoys ‘Walk in the Forest Day’

More than 170 fourth- and fifth-grade students from Fitzpatrick Elementary School visited the Alabama Wildlife Federation’s Alabama Nature Center September 11 for the “Walk in the Forest” Program. Students participated in activities led by U.S. Forest Service professionals, such as exploring aquatic life at the Bullfrog Pond with John Moran, learning how to identify trees along Hilltop Pass with Eugene Brooks, and watching birds with binoculars along Gum Pond Loop with Ryan Shurette. Students also fished at the upper pond with Matt Vines and Rick Dowling from the Alabama Nature Center. In addition to experiencing wildlife firsthand, students received a special visit from Smokey the Bear.

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Holy Cross Show Choir Serenades Holiday Market

Macon East Junior Attends Ocean Chemistry Camp

Macon East junior Emily Kyser recently attended Marine Quest at The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Ocean chemistry was her course of study with students from across the country. While attending this academic enrichment program, Kyser explored coastal habitats, aquaculture, Sea Turtle Hospital, Marine Technology Institute, UNCW Center for Marine Science and worked on the UNCW research vessel. The students did take time to have fun kayaking and snorkeling while collecting data for their research projects. After working in the university’s research labs, their projects and chemical analysis at the research symposium, Kyser’s group turned sea water into cement. Kyser said she plans to pursue a career in the marine science field. From left are Emily Kyser and Leah LeBlanc from Virginia.

Eastwood Latin Students Work Cooperatively

Eastwood Christian School’s tenth-grade Latin students impart their knowledge of the language to fifth- and sixth-graders each week. Shown in Mrs. Baldwin’s class is Jan-Mikael Johnson, speaking with Merritt Lee, Lani Moore, Caleb Spiers, Trent Holcomb and Baillie Johnson. Montgomery Parents I November 2014

The Holy Cross Episcopal School Show Choir is comprised of fifth- and sixth-grade students who perform at several events in and around Montgomery throughout the school year. The choir’s first performance took place at a PTF meeting on August 26, followed by a delightful Christmas program at the 26th Annual Holiday Market on October 16. At Holiday Market, the students entertained hundreds of shoppers with holiday favorites such as “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and “Deck the Halls.” “Performing helps with the student’s self-esteem and confidence,” says music teacher Beth Harris. Harris says that solo parts are assigned on a volunteer basis, “giving the students the opportunity to shine.” All students from Holy Cross Episcopal School participate in a musical performance at least once during the year. Third-grade students will perform their veterans program on November 13, with a tour to sing at the Veterans Hospital following a performance at the school. Firstand second-grade students will perform a nativity program for their parents in December. Fourth-grade, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students will present their musical programs in the spring. Also, our Show Choir Christmas tour of assisted living homes is tentatively set for December 11. Show Choir will also have a spring concert and tour.

ACA Holds First-Ever Elementary Math Night

Alabama Christian Academy held its inaugural Elementary Math Night this week. Under the guidance of math coach Lynne Smith, the elementary building opened its doors for fun and games with math as the focus with a pirate theme. Each teacher and child was encouraged to dress up and participate in the evening by following a treasure map to find games in each classroom that concentrated on basic math skills, math strategy, and interactive learning to build enthusiasm and confidence in math abilities. Out of 266 current elementary students, 190 were present for the evening with their parents and siblings to participate in the fun and games. “It has been my dream that one day I could see students having fun with math,” said Smith. “Our Pirate Math Night was like a dream come true! Students were engaging in meaningful math learning experiences and having fun at the same time. My objective as math coach is to creative a more positive attitude about math and prove that each student can do math!” 24

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ECA Students Support Breast Cancer Awareness

Cornerstone Seniors Meet Dr. Ben Carson

Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s seniors are registered in the dual enrollment program at Faulkner University. This fall semester the students are participating in an American Government class taught by Grover Plunkett. On October 2 the university hosted Dr. Ben Carson as the keynote speaker for Faulkner’s annual benefit. Cornerstone’s students were invited to participate in a small reception honoring Dr. Carson and hosted by Jones Law School. Carson spoke to the students and allowed opportunity for a question and answer session. Shown with Dr. Carson are, from left, Andrew Graham, Joy Scott, Alyse Bloodworth and Philip Stewart.

Evangel Christian Academy’s student body recently participated in Breast Cancer Awareness Month by sponsoring various activities. The volleyball team wore pink jerseys designed specifically to bring attention to this important cause. The gym was also adorned with several signs naming cancer as a foe. The faculty and students took part in “Pink Out Day,” in which each person sported pink shirts and accessories. The school also hosted a balloon release. Students wrote names on tags which were attached to the pink balloons. The tags bore the names of people who are survivors and also those who lost the battle with this terrible disease.

SUA Singers Launch Fall 2014 Program

Success Unlimited Academy’s Fine Arts Program has gotten off to a strong start for the 2014-2015 school year. Music and drama instructor Liz Lee said she is thrilled with the development of the new SUA Singers. “Let’s just say that the SUA Singers are most definitely on the move,” she said. “This year’s first song selection is ‘Amazing Grace-My Chains are Gone’ by Chris Tomlin. Everyone caught on fast and before we knew it, we had teachers from all over the building wanting to get a sneak peek. They already sound beautiful, and the best part is that we are just beginning!” Members of the SUA Singers are Faith Copeland, Kalyssa Boggs, Karsyn Johnson, Hannah Young, Garrett Turner, Rodney Cummings, William Clark, Tiye’ Davis, Jo’Neka Mims, Mollison Thomas-Dean, Brannon Lee, Marsa Beck and Evan Lee. Student accompanist is Michael Rogers.

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Holy Cross Blessing Event Helps Homeless Animals

Students and community members gathered October 3 on the grounds of Holy Cross Episcopal School to have their animals blessed by an Episcopal priest as part of the annual Blessing of the Animals tradition. As part of the Blessing of the Animals event, the school sponsored a donation drive for pet supplies to benefit the animals at the Montgomery Humane Society. Mary Hughes, the education coordinator for the Montgomery Humane Society, came to the school and received the donations. Students, parents and Holy Cross supporters donated supplies for dogs and cats at the shelter. With the help of Holy Cross parent Dr. Jessica Loch, Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital on Atlanta Highway collected donations valued at more than $1,000 for the donation drive for the Humane Society. This annual event serves to encourage students to develop their gift of service to others (in this case animals). Nicholas Coumanis attended the blessing ceremony and said he likes how his school supports animals in need. “They need the help. They don’t have much and it helps them,” he said. The ceremony was held outside near the school’s chapel on the sprawling lawn of its campus located on Bell Road. The priest spoke about animals and read scripture related to their importance and students sang a song about Noah’s Ark as part of the blessing. The Rev. Bob Hennagin is shown blessing Autumn Jackson’s pet dog.

Trinity Second-Graders Celebrate Grandparents Second-grade students served as hosts for Trinity’s annual grandparents’ day. The students performed several songs for their special guests, treated them to a delightful reception, and presented handmade gifts as a token of their appreciation. Grandparents’ Day is a fun conclusion to the students’ social studies unit on family. Students and grandparents alike had a wonderful time. Jemison Willis is shown with his grandmother, llen Oakes.

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Saint James JV Team Wins CCC Volleyball Championship

The Saint James School Junior Varsity Volleyball Team was named the Capital City Conference champion October 4. The team finished the year in a hard-fought tournament and ended the season 27-3. In the championship tournament of play, STJ sophomore Lindsey Sampson and freshman Caroline Christie were named tournament team players and the Tournament MVP was STJ freshman Annie Skoneki. The Saint James JV team, comprised of eighth-, ninth- and tenth-graders, is coached by Sellers Dubberley. The team competes in the CCC, which includes Alabama Christian Academy, Montgomery Academy, Trinity Presbyterian School, Montgomery Catholic and Saint James School.

MA’s Speech & Debate Team Earns National Recognition

The National Speech and Debate Association, the honor society for middle and high school speech and debate, has named its Top 100 schools in the nation for the 2013-2014 academic year. The Montgomery Academy ranked 55 out of more than 3,000 schools nationwide. Members earn points and degrees through the honor society, based on competitive and service-related activities, ranging from the Degree of Merit with 25 or more points to the Degree of Premier Distinction with 1,500 or more points. Recipient schools are published in Rostrum, the national magazine of high school speech and debate. “These students and coaches have demonstrated outstanding participation and achievement in speech and debate activities,” stated Executive Director Scott Wunn. “We are pleased to honor them for their hard work and dedication, and wish them continued success in the coming season.” The Montgomery Academy’s nationally recognized Speech and Debate program is coached by Jay Rye and Kris Hall. 27

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STJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Foster Named Achievement Semifinalist

Saint James School senior Zuri Foster has been named a 2015 National Achievement Scholarship Program Semifinalist, a prestigious honor awarded to only 1,600 students nationwide, from 160,000 entrants. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 800 National Achievement Scholarships awarded next spring. To be considered for an Achievement Scholarship award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. A total of 700 National Achievement $2500 Scholarships and 100 corporate-sponsored National Achievement scholarships will be awarded. Foster, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Foster of Montgomery, began attending Saint James School in Pre-K4. She is working toward an honors diploma upon graduation in May, and plans to major in biochemistry or chemistry with pharmacy school as her goal. Foster is looking diligently at Auburn University, Mercer University and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill for college. As an accomplished student at Saint Jamesl, she is a member of National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, French Honor Society, serves as a Student Government Association representative, vice president of the French Club, a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Students, and is the captain of the varsity volleyball team. In the midst of her commitments, Foster said she is enjoying her senior year of high school, most especially AP Chemistry. Her own mother was a National Achievement Scholarship recipient. The National Achievement Scholarship Program is an academic competition established in 1964 to provide recognition for outstanding Black American high school students. Black students may have entered both the 2015 National Achievement Program and the 2015 National Merit Program by taking the 2013 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) and meeting other published requirements for participation. Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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Megan Thompson Named DYW of Montgomery County

Montgomery Academy senior Megan Thompson was named Distinguished Young Woman of Montgomery County 2015. Distinguished Young Women is an official local preliminary of a national scholarship program that promotes and rewards scholarship, leadership and talent in young women. In addition to earning scholarships for college, those who participate in the Distinguished Young Women program develop friendships, self-confidence and other life skills that pave the way for future success. The Distinguished Young Women experience is open to every eligible young woman and there is no cost to participate. Academy senior Abigail Hagood placed in the top ten for Montgomery County. Thompson will compete in the next level of the competition, Distinguished Young Women of Alabama. The young woman selected as the state representative will then compete in the annual National Finals competition in Mobile, for the 58th Annual Distinguished Young Women National Finals, June 25-27, 2015. The girls will spend two weeks getting to know other outstanding girls from across the country, engaging in community service and team development activities, and preparing for the National Finals competition. All state representatives will compete for a share of more than $130,000 in cash scholarships and the opportunity to represent the national program as the Distinguished Young Woman of America.

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Catholic’s JV Volleyball Team Competes in Tournament

Montgomery Catholic’s junior varsity volleyball team competed in the Prattville High School Smash Volleyball Tournament September 26-27. Twelve teams competed with the Knights defeating both Jeff Davis and Auburn, having one loss to Mobile Catholic school (McGill-Toolen) in pool play. Montgomery Catholic placed second in their pool and advanced to the championship bracket, top six teams out of 12. The championship bracket brought another defeat by a Birmingham Catholic school (John Carroll). Shown are the JV volleyball teams from Montgomery Catholic, McGill-Toolen and John Carroll. Montgomery Catholic’s JV volleyball team is coached by Abby Beesley. Team members are Morgan Micher, Ale Vazquez, Ansley Rohde, Emily Tolar, Jenni Morgan, Briana Hollinger, Aleigha Walden and Lauren Beverly.

ALL THINGS POSSIBLE A R E

Whether you dream of being a surgeon or a kindergarten teacher, Alabama Christian Academy offers the educational foundation for future success. In addition to top-notch academic programs (including a 2014 National Merit Scholarship Winner), the award-winning fine arts programs, athletic teams and spiritual emphasis, ensure that graduates are ready to both lead and serve. 3 3 4 . 2 7 7. 19 8 5

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MPS Announces National Achievement Semifinalists

A commitment to high academic achievement, leadership and community service are three characteristics that aptly describe 13 MPS students who have been included on a distinguished list of the nation’s top African-American high school students. The students were named National Achievement Semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), which released the names of Achievement Semifinalists nationwide recently. Of the 49 Alabama students to be named, 13 are MPS students––the highest number of Achievement Semifinalists from public or private schools in the state. Booker T. Washington Magnet High student Edward Taylor and Loveless Academic Magnet Program High students Shazzia Alexander, John Bailey, Jaida Bannister, Matalia Conner, Noah Keary Foster, Shayla Glover, Brandon James, Kindred Obas, Jaylen Pittman, Sheila Willis, Anthony Wilson and Grum Woldemichael are now among 1,600 students selected from a pool of 160,000 who applied for the program nationwide. According to NMSC, about 80 percent of Semifinalists will go on to become Finalists and will compete for 700 Achievement Scholarship awards worth some $2.5 million to be offered next spring. “It’s so gratifying to see our students earn national recognition that acknowledges their hard work and commitment to academic excellence,” said MPS Superintendent Margaret Allen. “There are more demands than ever on our young people, so the fact that they have prioritized their studies while balancing extracurricular activities, sports, and community service speaks volumes about their dedication. The administration at BTW and LAMP, teachers, staff and parents have done an outstanding job preparing these students for success.” In addition to being evaluated based on academic record and scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, students must also demonstrate that they are involved in activities outside the classroom. Most of MPS’ 2015 Achievement Semifinalists regularly volunteer with community service organizations including Salvation Army, Jack and Jill, Habitat for Humanity and Bridge Builders. At left, Montgomery Public Schools Superintendent Margaret Allen and BTW Principal Dr. Quesha Starks congratulate BTW student Edward Taylor for being named an Achievement Semifinalist during a reception held at the school. Below, Superintendent Margaret Allen, LAMP Principal Marygeorge Jester and Counselor Mary Harmon congratulated LAMP’s 12 Achievement Semifinalists during a reception held in the LAMP library. The students include Shazzia Alexander, John Bailey, Jaida Bannister, Matalia Conner, Noah Keary Foster, Shayla Glover, Brandon James, Kindred Obas, Jaylen Pittman, Sheila Willis, Anthony Wilson and Grum Woldemichael.

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

Catholic Education Partners Hold Golf Tournament

Partners In Catholic Education (PICE) hosted its 14th annual charity golf tournament at the Capitol Hill Robert Trent Jones Golf Course in Prattville September 26. A great day for the 180+ golfers in attendance, registration and lunch began at 11 a.m. and the shotgun start, on both the Senator and Legislator courses, started at 1 p.m. Format was best ball. The registration fee included lunch, green fees, cart, range balls, gift bags for each player, golf shirt, refreshments on the course, posttournament food and beverages, and door prizes for everyone. There were HolesIn-One consisting of a new car on both courses. There was also a putting contest between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for a great vacation and the top three net and gross teams received superb prizes. Partners in Catholic Education (PICE) was established in 1995 to bridge the Catholic Community with St. Bede School. PICE now supports the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School community with the following annual projects: The PICE Annual Golf Tournament, Career Day for the Middle School and the Senior Success Forum. PICE has contributed more than $1 million in projects and equipment to Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School since the beginning. Next year will be the 15th anniversary of the Tournament and PICE is planning to make it extra special. More information can be located at http://www. montgomerycatholic.org/. Above, PICE Golf Tournament volunteer Ann Sadie Osten with tournament sponsor Ben Walker and PICE President Liz Sutton enjoy the kickoff of the 14th Annual Partners in Catholic Education Golf Tournament. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Trinity’s Felder Named Commended Student

Cassie Felder has been named a Commended Student in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program. About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2015 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2015 competition by taking the 2013 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. “The young men and women being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” commented a spokesperson for National Merit Scholarship Corporation. “We hope that this recognition will help broaden their educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.”

Macon East Academy Holds Homecoming

Macon East Academy celebrated Homecoming October 10 as the Knights took on the Lions of Evangel Academy. The week was full of excitement and activities including the annual junior/senior powder puff football game, a pep rally, tailgate party, and Homecoming parade. Throughout the week, students and teachers enjoyed themed dress-up days including duck calls & overalls day, cowboy & indian day, graffiti day, and spirit day. The theme for the week and class decoration contest was “Tie up the Lions,” and the Knights did just that defeating Evangel 40-21. Senior Tyler Sheehan led the Macon East offense with 357 yards on 30 carries and five touchdowns. Kenzie Gourlay was crowned as the 2014 Homecoming Queen during halftime. Gourlay is captain of the varsity cheerleading squad and daughter of Tammi Fett and Tim Gourlay. Other members of the 2014 Homecoming Court were Spencer Lindemood (7th grade), Annslie Gourlay (8th grade), Katie Jo Dickey (freshman), Sami Nesbitt and Sommer Sears (sophomores), Emily Kyser, Ally Slaton and Paxton Searle (juniors), and Mari-Beth Baker, Morgan Pounds and Cameron Redding (seniors). A host of Macon East alumni were in attendance at the game and enjoyed reuniting with old friends and faculty. From left are Spencer Lindemood, Katie Jo Dickey, Sommer Sears, Paxton Searle, Mari-Beth Baker, Morgan Pounds, Cameron Redding, 2014 Homecoming Queen Kenzie Gourlay, Ally Slaton, Emily Kyser, Sami Nesbitt and Annslie Gourlay.

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Saint James Crowns Homecoming Queen

ACA Students Learn Concepts in New Ways

In order to motivate students and to teach them about key physics concepts, Alabama Christian Academy teacher Kathy Goldman worked with her junior and senior physics students to build Pinewood Derby cars. Goldman’s students were encouraged to use concepts learned in the physics classroom to design their cars. Students enjoyed the interactive, hands-on experience of building their cars and then racing them. Each class voted on the best design and then raced the cars to determine a winner.

Senior Winston Belle (Win) Woodson, daughter of Marti and Frank Woodson of Montgomery, was crowned Saint James School’s 2014 Homecoming Queen in halftime ceremonies during STJ’s October 10 match-up against the Bullock County Hornets. Queen Woodson’s court included freshman attendant Caroline Christie, sophomore attendant Chanley Ritter, junior attendant Brooke Engles, senior attendant Cassie Sadie and Queen’s attendants seniors Sadie Argo and Mary Villageois. The crown bearer was Saint James kindergartner Isabella Penney, daughter of Haley and Nigel Guntharp, a 2001 STJ alum. The STJ Trojans won their homecoming game 42-0 over Bullock County, bringing their record to 6-1. From left are Caroline Christie, Brooke Engles, Sadie Argo, 2013 Queen Laura Catherine Clark, 2014 Queen Win Woodson, Mary Villageois, Cassie Sadie, Chanley Ritter and crown bearer Isabella Penney.

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Holy Cross Teacher Earns Certified Training

Holy Cross resource teacher Marcia Bazzell assists pre-kindergarten and kindergarten teachers in their classrooms, pulls out smaller groups of first-, secondand third-grade kids for reading work, and works with students in fourth through sixth grades as needed. Additionally, she helps provide teachers with materials and ideas that will enhance the lessons and skills they are teaching. “I enjoy my work because every single day is different,” Bazzell said. “It is rewarding to end each day feeling I have in some way been a help to others at our school.” Recently, Bazzell attended a weeklong Orton-Gillingham teacher training institute. Upon completion of the institute, she received certification as an Orton-Gillingham trained teacher. Orton-Gillingham is a multi-sensory approach to teaching that can benefit all students by capitalizing on their strengths and remediating their weaknesses. It focuses on a success-oriented direct instruction approach using visual, auditory, and kinesthetic processes. It has a systematic phonics program that prepares children to manipulate sounds and symbols to create words and sentences. The review and consistent practice of this program allows children to spell and read with ease. “Orton-Gillingham is a means of being very intentional to make sure children have the phonics background they need for reading success,“ said Bazzell. While excited about the potential of the use of this program, Bazzell said she is being very deliberate about implementation. “My goal is to incorporate this program into our pre-kindergarten through third-grade classrooms whether by small group or whole class instruction— whichever way works best for the teachers and students at Holy Cross.” Pre-K student Reagan Little works with Bazzell on letter formation in the sand.

Success Unlimited Spotlights JaCobe Ray

JaCobe Ray is a ninth-grade student in Janet Stambaugh’s honors algebra class for the first semester of the 20142015 school year at Success Unlimited Academy. This is Ray’s first year at SUA and he is off to a successful and busy start. He has become an active member of the SUA Warrior Praise Band, where he plays keyboard and drums at the SUA Summit Chapel on Thursday mornings. Ray became involved with music at his church, Living By Faith in Wetumpka, where both his parents serve as ministers. He began teaching himself keyboard and drums at the age of nine with help and guidance from his older brother. Ray’s next goal is to learn to play guitar. He plans someday to have a career in music with a focus on music production.

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Trinity Principal Honored For Providing Employee Support

MEA Cheerleaders Perform at Auburn

The Macon East Academy varsity and junior varsity cheerleaders were honored to participate again this year in the Auburn University Cheer & Dance Extravaganza. The girls spent the afternoon of September 6 rehearsing with hundreds of cheerleaders and dancers from around the state at the university’s band practice field. During halftime of the Auburn/San Jose State football game, they took to the field at Jordan-Hare Stadium to perform a routine that included dance, cheer, and stunts. Their performance ended with a well-choreographed Tigers spell-out.

Tami Shelley, principal of Trinity Lower School, has been honored by the Alabama Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). In a recent ceremony in Montgomery, Shelley was presented the ESGR “Above and Beyond Award” by Dr. William Kringel of Theodore, chairman of the Alabama ESGR State Committee. The award recognizes employers who have gone “above and beyond” the legal requirements of the law by providing Guard and Reserve employees with non-mandated benefits. Shelley was specifically cited for the support she provided to a fifth-grade teacher in her school who was mobilized with the Army Reserve and later deployed to Afghanistan. Judge Charles Price, presiding judge of the 15th Judicial Circuit, spoke at the ceremony and recalled his military service. He spent three years with Special Forces and then three more years with the 82nd Airborne Division while on active duty. He then served in the U.S. Army Reserve as a judge advocate before retiring with more than 20 years service. “We must all continue to support our military personnel and their families,” Price said. In the past 15 years, more than 10,000 members of the Guard and Reserve in Alabama have been activated and deployed overseas. ESGR volunteers work with service members and their families as the need arises. Shown, Tami Shelly is presented the “Above and Beyond Award” by William Kringel, state chairman of the Alabama ESGR Committee.

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Academy Students Enjoy Intro to Engineering

New to the Upper School curriculum at Montgomery Academy this year is “Introduction to Engineering,” taught by Denise Dubick. The course offers students a glimpse of and some hands-on experience in the kinds of design and building challenges that occupy professional engineers. Members of the class work on projects throughout the semester covering such aspects as aerospace, structures, computer-aided design, mechatronics and programming, and robotics. Students taking the course actually make things that demonstrate the principles they are learning. Described by one student as “fun math,” the course requires close attention to detail. The latest project involved building a bridge with about a two-foot span from manila folders and glue. When the bridges were complete, each one had to be capable of supporting a bucket of water weighing 4kg suspended from two struts at the top. Fudging a measurement or cutting a corner resulted in a collapsed bridge and a wet floor, while patience, precision and attention to the realities of physics produced a strong, solid structure. Using templates and instructions from Stephen Ressler at the U.S. Military Academy, students worked on one component of the structure at a time. Each project required more of the fledgling engineers than the one before: they began by making an airplane out of precut pieces of balsa wood; then they built rockets with just one pre-made component; the parts of the bridges were all hand-made, one by one. For their final project, students will construct Lego robots for competition in a “Bot Battle.” A victorious robot will be able to push another off a platform. Like the others that precede it, the robotics lesson will include research as well as application, and will reward the use of precision and care at every step toward the arena of battle. Freshman Maddie Brazil poses with the circuit board she made for class.

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Catholic Elementary Campuses Elect Student Council Reps

Students at Montgomery Catholic’s St. Bede and Holy Spirit Elementary campuses recently elected student council representatives for the 2014-2015 school year. This year the student council at St. Bede will be led by Ryan Barranco as president, Ethan Binns vice president, John Russell Smith as secretary, Matthew Livingston as chaplain, and Cannon Bach as treasurer; and at the Holy Spirit Campus by Izabella Janush-Hernandez as president, Corinne Logeman as vice president, Emma Garrison as secretary, Cameryn Cool as chaplain, and Zach Izer as treasurer.

STJ Music Students Perform in Birmingham

Ten fifth-graders from Saint James School were selected to participate in The Alabama Music Educators’ Elementary Music Festival October 3. The Saint James students chosen to attend, who have been taught by STJ Elementary Music Director Kay Newman, were Sierra Boles, Gracie Branham, Anna Colson, Amya Donald, Marrison Gardner, Danielle Greene, Christiana Haynes, Reese Hunter, Hannah Rains and Emma Sherlin. The festival, held at Samford University in Birmingham, featured nearly 500 outstanding fourth- and fifth-graders from across the state who had demonstrated a high level of interest and participation in their school music classes and who had exhibited cooperation, self-discipline and a willingness to learn and memorize music. Participants spent the day in rehearsals with Ken Berg, music director and resident composer for the Birmingham Boys Choir, before presenting a public performance that evening in Samford’s Wright Center Concert Hall. STJ’s Reese Hunter was selected as one of only two soloists for the evening’s concert. Shown, teacher Kay Newman and Saint James School fifth-grade music students at The Alabama Music Educator’s Elementary Music Festival.

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Above, front row from left, are the St. Bede Campus Student Council for 20142015: Matthew Livingston, Cannon Bach, Nathan Manning, Nicholas Calandra, Gibson Souriya, Amy Treloar, Sophia Taylor, Audrey Trant and Andrew Bosch; middle row: Alana Wilkinson, Danielle Willcox, Riley Taylor, Chloe Walden, John McLennan, Ailish Gilbert, Samantha Day, McKinley Boyd, Andrew Koerner and Lena Duncan; and back row: Devan DeRamus, Ethan Binns, Grayson Howell, Camille Morgan, Ryan Barranco, Alanna Aiken, Deray Roberson, Alexis Meshok and Samuel Rogers.

Above, front row from left are the Holy Spirit Campus Student Council for 2014-2015: Max Barranco and Laura Thomas Zhvania; middle row: Alyssa Kirk, Cameryn Cool, Corinne Logeman, Ella Newell, Jacob Miller and Catherine Aaron; and back row: Izabella Janush Hernandez, Emma Garrison, D.J. Carter, Cecilia Hoffpauir and Zach Izer. 36

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Cornerstone Participates in GEARS Robotics Team

The GEARS (General Engineering and Robotics Specialists) Inc. robotics team, made up of students from Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, Eastwood Presbyterian Church School, and several homeschool groups, competed in this year’s BEST Robotics Competition. This year’s competition, called Bladerunner, challenged the students to create a robot that can transport wind turbine components and assemble a wind turbine all the while overcoming the challenges that come with the transport and assembly of large components. The team competed at the War Eagle BEST competition on October 11 at Opelika High School. GEARS, Inc. was awarded the following: 3rd place Best T-shirt Design, 2nd place Most Elegant Robot, 2nd place Team Exhibit Design and Construction, 3rd place Engineering Notebook, 1st place Marketing Presentation, 1st place Team Spirit and Sportsmanship, 1st place Most Robust Design (least repairs), 4th Place Robotics and 2nd place BEST overall--qualifying them for regional competition! Cornerstone students include Harrison and Anna Grace Estes; Gracie Wooddy; Isabella, Olivia and Collin Horne; and John Scott.

Johnny Appleseed Visits ACA Kindergarten Classes

Johnny Appleseed, otherwise known as Carrie Cauthen, came to visit Alabama Christian Academy’s kindergarten classes to celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day. Cauthen is the mother of kindergartner Georgia Cauthen, and she spent some time talking with the children about Johnny Appleseed and reading them a story about him. In addition to the visit from Johnny, ACA’s kindergartners brought in apples and made charts about their favorite color and types of apples. Students also learned about the stages of growth from seed to apple and several songs about Johnny Appleseed to celebrate the day. Shown, parent Carrie Cauthen helps the children to try on a pot like Johnny Appleseed wore.

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Montgomery County Schools

Catholic Key Club Volunteers at HALO Event

On October 19, students from the Montgomery Catholic Key Club volunteered at the 3rd Annual HALO Make a Memory Event at the Train Shed in Downtown Montgomery. The event was organized by Wendy and Nathan Blakely in memory of their infant son Owen to honor families who have experienced the early or sudden passing of a child. The HALO Make a Memory Event strives to encourage families to make memories every day and never to take a single day for granted. Montgomery Catholic students volunteered by helping children with games such as Putt-Putt, Tic Tac Toe and other fun activities such as a Pumpkin Patch, Face Painting, and Bouncy House. Maria Celli and Anna Nutting are shown helping children at the Putt-Putt game.

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Macon East Kindergarten Students Receive iPad Minis

For the first time in school history the Kindergarten class at Macon East Academy is participating in the Apple iPad program. Ellen Lawrenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students were so excited to receive their new iPad minis. The apps being used complement the reading and math skills being taught and include practice with sight words, letters, numbers, phonics, addition, subtraction and much more. Students will also write and illustrate stories using a storywriting app and will use their cameras for activities in all subject areas. This technology in the kindergarten classroom is expected to keep students engaged by making learning interesting and fun.

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Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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Trinity Celebrates Homecoming

Homecoming at Trinity is always a wonderful time of reminiscing, reunions and football. The annual alumni tent was filled with memories as several alumni classes returned to Trinity to celebrate their reunions, including the classes of 1974, 1979, 1984, 1988, 1994, 1999, 2004, and 2009. As the former students watched the Trinity Wildcats defeat Ashford 24-8, they feasted on marinated shrimp, ham and cheese buttermilk biscuits, tasty chicken tenders, roasted asparagus wrapped with prosciutto, melon kabobs, stuffed mushrooms, and many other mouth-watering appetizers. Before the football game, the Class of 1970 was recognized for being Trinity’s “first” 40th reunion class. Several alumni made the trip back “home” for the momentous occasion. Trinity had even more to celebrate, as the 2014 homecoming court was announced during halftime. The 2014 Homecoming Queen was Barbara Ann Trotman, with senior attendants Anna Lee Curles and Dawson Williams; junior attendants Jordyn Meeks and Olivia Pendley; sophomore attendant Bailey Hope; freshman attendant Ensley Craven; eighth-grade attendant Abbie Ammons; and seventh-grade attendant Ellie Slawson. From left are Ensley Craven, Bailey Hope, Jordyn Meeks, Olivia Pendley, Barbara Ann Trotman, Dawson Williams, Anna Lee Curles, Abbie Ammons and Ellie Slawson.

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Saint James Business Class Visits Auburn The Saint James School “Introduction to Business” class, a precollege major elective, traveled to Auburn University to tour the College of Business and observe a Principles of Finance class. High school teacher Cathy Latham, sophomores Gibeom Kim and Suyoung Park, and seniors Walker Wise, Damilah Epps, Laura Glass, Angela Lee and Lauren McGlon are shown.

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MA Students Build Golf Hole for Charity

Last year during Montgomery Academy’s Annual Community Day, a group of Upper School students volunteered at the Montgomery Cancer Wellness Foundation. While there, the students learned of a charity event the Cancer Wellness Foundation was sponsoring called “No Putts, No Glory” where area architects, builders, designers and landscape professionals build one-of-akind miniature (putt-putt) golf course holes in support of local cancer patients. The Academy students came up with the idea for a putt-putt hole featuring Montgomery Academy’s bridge. Class of 2014 students Ashley Hallford, John Ahn, Layne Williams, Rachel Warwick, Hall Massey, Alan Jeon and Rachael Yearwood came up with the initial idea. From last year’s plan, current MA students participating in Bridge Builders built the hole to be used during the 2nd Annual No Putts, No Glory Miniature Golf Tournament. Since late August, under the direction of group leader Andrew Bell, juniors John Adams, Charles Speaks and Michael Butler have spent weekends building the creative golf hole. Madeline Roth, Annabel Roth, Mary Braden Hendon, Cari Budny, Virginia Reid Eskridge, Elsa Leonard and Ana Wagstaff helped finalize the hole that was one of the 18 holes used at Riverwalk Stadium for the fundraiser. Virginia Reid Eskridge, Ana Wagstaff, Annabel Roth, Andrew Bell, Michael Butler, Cari Budny, Madeline Roth, and Mary Bradon Hendon pose with their completed project.

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ACA Elementary Principal Arrested for MDA Benefit

Alabama Christian Academy Elementary Principal Doug Black was “arrested” to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). As part of the fundraiser, Black challenged his elementary students in grades K4-5th to bring “bail” money to assist the MDA. The elementary students spent the week learning about ALS and the MDA’s efforts to fight the disease, and at the end of the week enjoyed seeing the police officers take Black away in a police car after raising more than $1,700 in just one week. The Muscular Dystrophy Association is committed to fighting muscular dystrophy, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and related diseases, as well as supporting those afflicted with muscular disorders. The disease is characterized by a progressive weakening of skeletal muscles, defects in muscle proteins and the death of muscle tissue, according to MDA’s website at www.mda.org. Elementary Principal Doug Black is shown being escorted away after challenging his students to raise money for the MDA.

Eastwood Fifth-Graders Study Historic Explorers

MEA Celebrates Mexican Independence Day

Macon East Academy elementary Spanish classes have been learning about Mexican Independence Day. This holiday is observed September 15 and 16 and is the largest celebration of the year in Mexico. The students reenacted “El Grito de Delores,” which originally took place in 1810 in the city of Delores, New Spain (now called Mexico.) Students shouted, “Long live Mexico” in response to Father Hidalgo’s cry for revolution and freedom and marched around the classroom while listening to the Mexican National Anthem. They also waved flags, blew whistles, and played instruments in celebration of this very important day in the history of Mexico.

Eastwood Christian School’s fifth-grade students enjoyed making sailing ships and writing about explorers. Some of the ones they studied included Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, Walter Raleigh, Juan Ponce de Leon, Hernando Cortez and Hernando de Soto. Shown with their ships are Lani Moore, Ella Grace Pass, Mary Elisabeth Mauney, Hudson MacDonald, Luke Duggar, Baillie Johnson and Jack Fuhrman.

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Recognizes Students Qualified for Duke TIP

Trinity Senior Attends College Program in Boston

Alabama Christian Academy has recognized 18 seventhgrade students who qualify to participate in the Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) Program, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving academically gifted and talented youth. The Duke TIP 7th-Grade Talent Search focuses on the identification, recognition, and support of high-ability students, offering qualifying seventh-grade students the opportunity to take college entrance exams alongside high school students. Since 1980, Duke TIP has identified more than 2 million seventh-graders based on standardized test scores. The program is dedicated to being a national leader in identifying academically talented students and providing innovative programs to support the development of each student’s optimal educational potential. “ACA is proud of these eighteen students who qualified for the Duke TIP program this year,” said Secondary High School Principal Doug Prater. “As a college-preparatory school, we recognize that there is great importance in having our kids exposed at an early age to college-entrance exams and increasing the college-readiness among students for their future academic success.” Eighteen ACA students prepare to participate in the Duke TIP program including, front row from left, Daniel King, Kyra Caspari, Elise Jackson, Emily Thornton, Madison Davis, Marlo Duggan and Gavin Lyle; middle row, David Mimm, Dylan Hilliard, Judd Hardin, Braxton Bonner, Logan Clark and Chad Moody; and back row, Kinish Serna-Martiniz, Coleman Harrison, Jashaun Todd and Aidan Dickson. Leanna Bruner is not pictured.

STJ Band Wins First in Class

The Saint James Marching Trojans competed and won Superior ratings at the Lake Martin Invitational October 4. The STJ Band was named Class A Champions and won the overall award for the Most Outstanding Pit Percussion. The band received Superior Ratings in Color Guard, Drum Major, Percussion, and from the three band judges. The Saint James band, under the direction of Susan Smith, is comprised of students from middle and high school and competes against primarily high school bands regionally and nationally. Recent Saint James band honors include Super-Regional Class A Division Winner, All State and All District Honor Band Members and two U.S. Army All-American Band Members. Shown, seniors and other upperclassmen serve as drum major, section leaders and mentors for the band. Montgomery Parents I November 2014

Trinity students experienced several informative workshops during College Day this year. From deciding what college is right for them to exploring college majors, university professors and college admission directors helped students navigate through the many choices that are upon them. With more than forty colleges and universities represented, College Day at Trinity was an outstanding opportunity for both students and parents to have their questions answered by college counselors and discuss admissions with the experts. One of the new presentations this year included a student panel, where freshmen and sophomores shared their experiences this past summer at an array of college programs they attended across the U.S. and abroad. Over the summer, senior Michael Sellers spent four weeks in July at Northeastern University in Boston studying law and writing. The program featured college-credit bearing courses taught by university professors on Northeastern’s campus located in the southern parts of Boston. Students of the program were treated just as actual Northeastern students, receiving official student IDs, meal plans, dorm rooms, and access to university resources. Sellers’s schedule included classes from 9:30-11:30 and 1:10-3:10 Monday through Thursday. Students were given Friday as an additional day off to catch up on homework, projects or papers. On weekday afternoons and weekends, students were free to explore the city of Boston, which provided an endless number of opportunities. The program provided many optional extracurricular activities for students, including a trolley tour of Boston, a tour of Fenway Park, a trip to the beach, and a Fourth of July party. Sellers said that his favorite extracurricular activity was “just hanging out with all of my friends. The program included students from all over the country and the world. I had great friends from not only all over the U.S., but even from places like Kuwait, Lebanon, Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, and Dubai.”

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Catholic’s Key Club Supports Walk & Roll Fundraiser

On October 4, the Montgomery Catholic Key Club helped with the Spina Bifida Walk and Roll Fundraiser held at the Montgomery Zoo. The Key Club especially wanted to help classmate Ricky Treloar’s team called Rockin’ Ricky. Treloar, an eighth-grade student at Montgomery Catholic, was born with spina bifida. His team was able to raise $900 of the $25,000 raised that day. This money supports children with spina bifida and their families throughout the year through education, workshops, meetings and camps. The Key Club helped by passing out Nancy’s Italian Ice and helping the children with crafts and facepainting. Shown is Ricky’s family: Amy Treloar, Teresa Treloar, Ricky Treloar and Greg Treloar, with Ashlyn Jennings, Paul and Cindy Durden, Emily and Matt Taunton, Celes Hand and Montgomery Catholic Key Club members Lindsey Guin, Aimee Azar, Samantha Zanglin, Taylor Lyn, Reggie Jackson, Maria Celli, Ledariane Moore, Eric Crenshaw and Daniel Reeves.

Montgomery Academy Partners With EAT South to Build Garden

Recently, The Montgomery Academy Lower School partnered with EAT South to build a garden! Sarah Housley, MA’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teacher, and Denise Blake Greene, executive director of EAT South and MA Class of ’92, collaborated to bring a dream to life. Students in Housley’s third- and fourth-grade classes prepared the soil, measured the planting areas, and ultimately planted cabbage, broccoli, carrots and radishes for the fall. Prior to planting, Housley instructed students about proper soil preparation and taught the students the proper names for gardening tools. Students then learned the proper placement of the plants prior to digging in the dirt and planting their first plants. Front row from left are student helpers John Mills Williford, Aaron Aronov, Beckett Nelson, Josie Aronov, Avery Williford and Caroline McDaniel.

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I hope everyone is having a great school year and that you enjoyed a pleasant and restful fall break. Our students and faculty members continue to do their very best in every aspect of the educational realm and in our community. In the spring of 2014, ACT launched its newest assessment known as ASPIRE. This summative assessment is linked to the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks. The test was taken by students in grades 3-8 in the areas of math, reading, English, science, and writing. Score reports identify readiness benchmarks to determine if students are on track for success at the appropriate grade/subject levels. Out of a possible 30 subject/grade combinations, Autauga County Schools scores ranked above the national average 90% of the time. Our goal next year is 100%. The faculty and staff of Daniel Pratt Elementary

and Prattville Junior High deserve a special recognition for their scores coming in above the national average in every category on the ASPIRE! Soar Eagles and Go Cats!! Many of you have probably heard of the prestigious National Merit Program. The National Merit® Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. High school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®)—a test which serves as an initial screen of approximately 1.5 million entrants each year—and by meeting published program entry and participation requirements. The National Merit Program recognized two students from Prattville High School. Ambria Dewever is one of 16,000 semifinalists in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program and has the opportunity to continue in the competition for one of 7,600 National Merit Scholarships that will be offered next spring. Adam Behr was recognized as a commended National Merit Scholar. This is such an honor, and we congratulate both Ambria and Adam!

Students and staff alike are conducting some great acts for humanity. Coaches worked diligently to ensure player eligibility for Dalton Vance, a special needs student at Billingsley School. Dalton had always dreamed of playing in a real football game. He was ‘adopted’ this year by the Billingsley Bears Junior Varsity football team and recently realized his dream when he ran a touchdown for the Bears in their game against the Prattville Christian Academy Panthers. See Dalton’s picture and accompanying story at http://www.ahsaa.com. Also, Campbell Vest from Prattville Elementary recently received 1st place in a poster contest honoring the Habitat for Humanity National Day of Service and Remembrance. To keep up with the day to day events in our system like us on Facebook at Autauga County School System. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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Autauga County Schools

National Merit Program Recognizes PHS Students

PJHS Restores Computer Lab

Last year, software upgrades meant that Prattville Junior High School lost more than 50 computers because they were too old to be updated. To provide a computer in every classroom, the 7th grade computer lab had to be completely dismantled. This year, the school has worked diligently to build its funds to replace those computers through fundraising, awareness through the Parent Involvement Group, etc. Recently, an anonymous donor parent came to visit the school and donated funds to purchase 31 new computers to re-establish the seventh grade lab. She later returned to see the new computers installed and ready for action. Thanks to Autauga County parents for partnering with the schools to provide excellent educational opportunities for our students.

Prattville High School Principal Richard Dennis announced that Ambria Dewever is a semifinalist in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program. Dewever is one of 16,000 semifinalists in the 60th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,600 Nation Merit Scholarships worth $33,000,000 that will be offered next spring. To be considered for the National Merit Scholarship, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of competition. About 90% of the semifinalists are expected to obtain finalist standing, and more than the half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship. Prattville High is also pleased to announce Adam Behr as a commended National Merit Scholar. This placed Behr among the top 5% of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2015 competition by taking the 2013 Preliminary National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

Prattville Walmart Supports Junior High Teachers

Prattville Junior High School thanks Prattville Walmart Manager Troy Dooley for supporting teachers with an afternoon tea. The store brought cake and $50 gift certificates for 20 teachers. These monies will be spent on additional classroom supplies for students.

Autauga County Forms Middle School Strategies

During the recent fall conference for the state superintendents of Alabama, Autauga County Schools Superintendent Spence Agee assembled a team to speak on successful strategies for middle school students. The team provided a collaborative presentation during the conference to include topics as performance, opportunity, work, excellence and rigor (POWER) through a variety of strategies including vertical teaming, professional development, motivation, data review and quality instruction. Team members included Lesley Rogers (instructional coach), Spence Agee (superintendent), Janice Stockman (principal), and Jeff Stockman (PHS math teacher).

Prattville Freshmen Learn to be Leaders

The week of September 22-26, more than 500 ninth-graders from Prattville High School visited Lanark for the third annual Academy of Leaders (AOL) program. The students participated in professional and personal development which included teambuilding activities. AOL was established to give students the tools to be successful throughout their high school career. 45

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As the month of November is truly a season of Thanksgiving, here is my “thankful list” for our current school year: I am thankful for the 11,025 students who share their energy and talents each and every day here in our district. I am thankful for the 1,250 employees who perform a myriad of duties on behalf of our students each and every day. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve in a school district in one of the fastest growing counties in the state. I am thankful for the wonderful communities that comprise our fast growing district. I am thankful for Wetumpka High School’s Robotics Team taking the top spot in this year’s War Eagle BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science, and Technology) competition. Bravo to Dr. Virginia Vilardi and her talented students!

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

I am thankful for our continuing work with community partners like the Wetumpka Depot Players and their upcoming production of Junie B. Jones Christmas that will be performed for students from throughout the county. I am delighted that again this year I get to perform in the annual Christmas play and demonstrate to our students my own personal passion for the arts in our schools. I am thankful for our second successful year of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in our schools. These PLCs help to bolster the implementation of math and reading standards among many other benefits. I am thankful for the PRIME TIME Family Reading Program that served as a major highlight on two of our campuses this fall. Holtville Elementary and Coosada Elementary are the only two schools in the state implementing this program made possible through a grant through the Alabama Humanities Foundation. I am thankful for the ongoing efforts of Redland Elementary and Airport Road Intermediate with The Leader in Me Initiative. The Leader in Me is a whole-school transformation model. Based on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, The Leader in Me equips students

with the self-confidence and skills they need to thrive in the 21st-century economy. I am thankful for the efforts of all four of our middle schools in implementing Pre-AP programs in grades 5-8. I am thankful for the dual enrollment partnership among Central Alabama Community College, Wetumpka High School, and Stanhope Elmore High School and the tremendous benefit this partnership will bring to our entire county. I am thankful for Stanhope Elmore High School in planning to implement a teacher training academy in conjunction with the Millbrook Child Development Program located on the campus of the former Robinson Springs School. Here in our school district, I am thankful for all of the achievements of our students, teachers, staff, community and administrators. Bravo for a job well done and thank you for a great 2014-2015 school year! Jeff Langham is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. Now in his eighth year as the system’s leader, he has a total of 27 years of experience in the field of education. Langham is an active member at Landmark Church in Montgomery. He and his wife, Ginny, a nurse educator, have one daughter, Weldon.

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Elmore County Schools

WMS Works Quickly During Maintenance Disaster

On October 13, Wetumpka Middle School had to dismiss school as soon as it started due to a main water line leak. In less than two hours, parents were called, students were signed out and picked up, neighboring schools housed students who weren’t picked up, and the building was emptied. A BIG THANKS to the WMS crew for their hard work, and a BIG THANKS to all the parents for responding so quickly!

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Missouri Author Visits Airport Road Students

Students at Airport Road Intermediate enjoyed a day of encouragement and humor when Branson, Mo. entertainer Eddie Bowman arrived as “Chester Drawers” and shared jokes and songs with the students that motivated them to read, be kind, and be truthful. He also talked to them about making good choices and staying away from drugs. Bowman is an author who writes children’s books and speaks to children around the United States. Chester Drawers is pictured here with Ms. Friar and some of her third-grade students.

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WMS and MMS Are Friendly Rivals

The Wetumpka Middle School Indian Chief got a hug from Millbrook Middle School Principal Mrs. Jackson at the football game. Wetumpka played Millbrook on October 16 during Millbrook Middle School’s homecoming game. Although the schools are rivals, they are still family---both belonging to the Elmore County Public School System.

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WHS Administrator Presents at Conference

Wetumpka High School Assistant Principal Bonnie Sullivan recently served as a presenter earlier at the International Academic Research Conference hosted by the Center for Scholastic Inquiry in Chaska, Minnesota. Sullivan was joined in the presentation by Dr. Gilbert Duenas, PhD, professor at Auburn University Montgomery, and Dr. Shelly Bowden, PhD, professor at Auburn University Montgomery. These three centered their presentation on an article that they authored together— “Improving Preschool Family/Student Motivation and Achievement through Multicultural Teaching and Learning.” “Our entire school district is thrilled by the impressive accomplishment of Bonnie Sullivan,” said Elmore County School Superintendent Jeff Langham. “She is achieving impressive academic feats and research relatively early in her career. We are so proud of her!” The Center for Scholastic Inquiry is committed to discovery and evidencebased practice through the following: peerreviewed journals, collaborative continuing education, meaningful professional development, research endowment, coaching clinics, and training intensives.

Redland Names Horn Teacher of the Year

Rebecca Horn has been named Redland Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year. She has been educating students for 25 years as a teacher for first, third, fourth, fifth and sixth grades. Horn is now an instructional coach at RES. She will receive a commemorative clock and $100 gift card donated by the Redland PTO. Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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Eclectic Elementary Names Students of the Month

Eclectic Elementary named the following Students of the Month for September. Fourth-graders include Joseph Ellis, Devin Brown, Creed Spivey, Alexis Fomby and Gracie Powell; third-graders include Hailey Wiggins, Katie Winter, Hanna Winn, Sidney Strouse, Sage Chandler and Christopher Holt; second-graders include Tianna Benson, Jaden Eason, Arial Mann, Clayton Price, Kailey Jones, Lexi Martin and Caleb Bryant; first-graders include Landon Boswell, Kamryn Waugh, Brady Lund, Callie Haynes, James Hand, Kailey McGinty and Jordan Pollard; and kindergartners include Caden Bryant, Kason Moe, Kooper Boland, Autumn Speake, Bailey Kennedy, Baleigh Wilson and Grayson Gober.

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Holtville Celebrates Homecoming

Holtville High School celebrated Homecoming during the week of September 22-26. Students celebrated each day with a theme, including Zoo Day, Disney Day and Spirit Day. The activities culminated on September 26 with a pep rally and football game. During halftime, the Homecoming Court was presented. Tatum Jones was crowned the Homecoming Queen. The Homecoming Court are shown, from left, Brantley White, Tiffany Eiland, Breelyn Buck, Kelci Davis, Tatum Jones, Reagan Ruiz, Brett White, Alexis Kelley, Madison Law and Haley Smith.

Got news? Send us your school bits each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Elmore County Schools

Victory Third-Graders Visit Montgomery Zoo

ECHS Athletes Make College Commitments

Two Elmore County High School athletes have made verbal commitments to Divison 1 programs. Junior Elissa Brown has committed to play softball at the University of Alabama, and senior Ashton Maddaloni has committed to play golf at Jacksonville University.

Mr. Nolin’s third-grade class from Victory Baptist School observed animals up close at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum recently. Students viewed animals from North America, South America, Africa, Asia and Australia. Zoofari Skylift gave the students an opportunity to view the animals from above. This attraction was a great hit with the students, even those afraid of heights. Some enjoyed a train ride around the zoo. The class also got a chance to feed parakeets in Parakeet Cove, an open-air aviary housing more than 500 parakeets. At the Petting Zoo, students were given the option to touch and feed a llama and Pygmy goats. By the end of the day, the class had collected plenty of new data for their science notebooks.

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WMS Class Invites Special Guest Speaker

Students in Mrs. Killoughâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Law and Society class at Wetumpka Middle School enjoyed guest speaker Preston Frazier. Since the students have been studying the juvenile justice system, Frazier spoke about the youth detention facilities and intake process. Law and Society is a new elective offered to seventh-grade students this year. Students were given an overview of the course and allowed to sign up for it in May for the upcoming school year.

Millbrook Middle Celebrates Homecoming

Wetumpka High Supports Charity

Wetumpka High School club members sold pink carnations to help raise money for Joy to Life.

Airport Road Students Celebrate AR Goals

Students from Airport Road Intermediate School who met their Accelerated Reader goals for the first nine weeks celebrated with popcorn and a short movie based on a novel. To attend, students had to have 90% average percent correct and meet or exceed their points goal.

Millbrook Middle School celebrated its Homecoming recently. Each day had a theme, such as Super Hero Day, Twin Day, America Day, tye-dye homecoming shirts, and Disney Character Day. Kadin Anderson and Cedayvia Barley were crowned as king and queen at the Homecoming game.

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Elmore County Schools

WMS Names Recent Students of the Month

Wetumpka Middle School congratulates the following students for being recognized as the Student of the Month: Hannah Ingram, Gabrielle Dawson, Karen Rosales, Maddie Barrett, Torrie Price, Marley Candelaria, J.P. Baughman, Breanna Toles, Victoria Angus, D.J. Sousa and Jamarious Lightfoot.

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Elmore County High School Celebrates Homecoming

Seated from left are Elmore County High School Homecoming attendants Kenya Brown, Taylor Ferpes and Ran Woodyard, all seniors; and standing from left are freshman attendants Kayson Wallace and Hannah Rawls; sophomore attendants Courtney Dunaway and Dallas Wade; and junior attendants Olivia Smith and Elissa Brown.

Ec die ch stu Join us for a celebration of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goodness through praise and worship, followed by a life-applicable Biblebased teaching by senior pastor John Schmidt via video. Come casual and enjoy our service that starts at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday at the Jim Wilson YMCA at New Park. Nursery and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program provided.

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Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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WMS Class Displays Patriotism

Students in Mrs. Sprayberry’s sixth-grade social studies class at Wetumpka Middle School showed their patriotism remembering 9/11.

Missouri Author Visits Eclectic Elementary

Eclectic Elementary School had a visit from Missouri author Eddie Bowman recently. “Chester Drawers” discussed making good choices and reading carefully through jokes and silly songs. The students enjoyed participating and singing along.

Airport Road Supporters Gather Around the Flagpole

Students, teachers, parents and community leaders all met at the Airport Road Intermediate School flagpole September 24 to fellowship, sing and uplift our schools in prayer. ARIS was pleased to welcome Jared Parker, Nathan Atwood and Jackie Smith from First United Methodist in Millbrook to share in this special time. 53

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Music to Their Ears

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

One of the earliest connections we make with our children is through music. From the whispered lullabies that soothe their souls to the cheerful songs that entertain and raise their spirits, we use music to connect with the hearts and minds of children every day. Encouraging children to explore music through play also helps them discover styles, themes and lyrics that they can connect with independently. It’s just a matter of time before kids grow old enough to commandeer your playlist and speakers. The following resources encourage kids to find their own beat, cultivate their individual musical taste and add their distinctive voice to a musical landscape they create.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Jungle Jingles

Rockstar Guitar

Making creative rhythm available to the younger set, the Jungle Jingles set puts the first musical means into the littlest hands. With wild style, this artistically crafted set of instruments features musical tools that are instantly accessible to beginners. Including an Antelope slide whistle, Giraffe maracas, a sinuous snake stick for percussion and more – this collection of early instruments invites kids to explore a jungle of new sounds. Get ready for wild results as the preschool set leads the beats with the Jungle Jingles musical instrument set from Toysmith!

Kids who crave the spotlight jump to center stage with the Rockstar Guitar from International Playthings. Featuring three preprogrammed songs, the fret board also includes buttons that encourage independent composition using a variety of sounds and rhythms. The pull up swing bar, light-up strumming section and hands-free mic add even more rock star style to every performance moment. Whether your child loves singing along or is ready to create their own signature sound, the Rockstar Guitar will move your music-maker from fan to home-famous in an instant!

(Toysmith)

(International Playthings/Early Learning Centre)

KidiJamz Studio

Learning Tunes Karaoke

(V-Tech)

Today’s musical landscape has turned the spotlight toward the producers and DJs who craft the sounds behind the superstars. Give your budding musician the early tools to craft their own musical mix with the KidiJamz studio. With 20 kid-friendly tunes to start, artists can enhance and alter music with various styling and rhythms in the studio. The microphone allows digital voice effects and there’s even a scratching disc and a detachable music player so they can to take their latest cuts on the road. The big variety of tools available with the KidiJamz Studio combine with ease of use so that the youngest music producers can create musical styling that’s all their own!

(V-Tech)

Preschool sing-a-long takes a giant step forward with VTech’s Learning Tunes Karaoke machine. Complete with 15 ‘standards’ in three different modes of play, the microphone also features voice effects using a slider button that alters their voice with hilarious results. Learning songs that feature numbers and letters can get a whole new sound treatment with robot voice, echoes and more! Additionally, the LED screen features interactive facial expressions and animations that enhance engagement with this entertaining musical partner.

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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The goal of parenting is to prepare our children to be successful, independent, capable, and moral adults. Part of the responsibility of parenting is teaching our children how to control their responses to the world they live in. Through discipline (â&#x20AC;&#x153;to teachâ&#x20AC;?) children learn to master self-control, a vital life-skill for success. Self-control is the ability to regulate emotions, desires, and the verbal, nonverbal, or physical expression of those desires, especially when challenged by other people and situations. Children will come to rely on self-control as they move through the stages of infancy and childhood into adolescence and adulthood, calling again and again on their ability to tolerate frustration and to manage themselves in a variety of situations. Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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Begin early.

Self-control begins when children are infants, when parents empathetically respond to their child when he is tired, hungry, cold, needing connection, or have soiled their diapers. When an infant’s needs are met, they begin to learn basic trust. A child must be able to trust his environment and in others because it is the foundation for self-control. Parents teach their infants how to selfsoothe, the first self-regulation (self-control) skill. Infants are able self-soothe because they trust that their parents will care for and nature them. I used to rub all of my kids’ backs when they fussed before drifting off in their cribs, assuring them I was close and responsive. They calmed and quickly fell into a deep slumber.

Model what you want to see in your child.

Children learn emotional regulation through parental regulation. When modeling, parents should respond to others and in situations the way they wish their children to respond. Model calm, even though you may feel otherwise. You are always the teacher. You are also the student, always. Take a look at yourself first when you witness your child behaving in a way you do not approve of.

K.I.S.S.

Keep it short and simple. For example, with the younger child directions can be something like, “If you hit, you sit.” The parent follows through and when the child is ready, he can reengage with others, with a reminder of “no hitting” as well as using his words. Self-control generally improves as children develop and the prefrontal cortex

area of the brain, which regulates behavior, matures. Older children have had years of experience of knowing the rules, routines, and what behavior is expected in numerous situations.

Use do-overs and generous praise.

Parents can go over instructions (doovers) to reinforce what behavior they wish to see. Do-overs provide children with opportunities to practice the behavior over, often in a fun way. Do- overs teach, encourage and strengthen the self-control “muscle” in children. The best time to achieve a do-over is when the child and the parent are calm and the lack of control has recently occurred. For example, “You sounded mean when you spoke to me. I understand you may be tired, but that is not the way we speak to each other. Try again, please.” And then have your child speak, until he has achieved the proper tone. If he has trouble, model it for him. Praise him for doing it the way you asked him to. “I like how you spoke to me. Well done!” Praise him for controlling himself. Repetition and verbal praise, along with a hug and smile, reinforce the self-control you are trying to instill in your child as well as self-esteem.

Help your child notice his lack of control and work on problem solving.

Discuss the reason(s) why your child becomes out of control. Does he have a specific “flashpoint” or trigger? Is he tired? Hungry? Overtaxed with too many tasks or commitments? My daughter is triggered by hunger. She becomes snarky and then downright mean and combative as her blood sugar drops; in her case we make sure she

eats small portions of protein throughout the day. A teen now, she oversees this herself with great success. With the help of your child come up with one or two go-to ideas that work for him (and you) when he loses control. For my son, we long ago discovered two options that work well with him. He voluntarily goes to his room to cool off until he feels in control or he takes a long shower to “wash away the emotional dirt.” His choice. The child that reemerges is my sweet, thoughtful loving boy.

Focus on the positive.

Positive reinforcement begets more positive behavior. Bring up the positive whenever possible, “You are so thoughtful and kind. You helped your sister feel better when you sat with her and read to her.” Kids love to be stroked and be noticed for the good behavior they have.

Reward kids for self-control.

The most sought after reward with my kids is one-on-one time with their dad or me. We try to be efficient, working in tandem to get things done to allow for more “together” time. “I was able to complete my errand quickly because you were so patient; now I have more time to spend with you. What would you like to do?” No child is perfect or comes with instructions. Focus on the love you have for your child, your relationship with him, and his strengths and interests. Your child’s self-control will eventually improve if you are consistent with discipline, expectations and verbal praise. mp Judy M. Miller is a freelance writer living in the Midwest with her husband and four children. She is a Certified Gottman Educator and the author of What To Expect From Your Adopted Tween and Writing to Heal Adoption Grief: Making Connections & Moving Forward.

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Don’t Stress About Dressing Your Teen Most months I typically write about how you can save money on your style, give you the best tips when it comes to fashion or show you how to embrace yourselves and your style. I am going to take a different approach this time and talk about fashion as it relates to the “young ladies” in your lives. I have recently had an opportunity to work with some gorgeous young women and styling them has been a joy. I have had a few moms ask me to help their teen girls in regards to their fashion, and I know that this age is hard for both teen and mom. Trying to agree on what they should or shouldn’t wear can be the source of a lot of frustration. I might not have a teen or a daughter, but I have two older sisters and I was once a teen girl myself, so I can certainly relate. Remember, God made us in his image so the key is honoring that. We can look beautiful as long as we embrace who we are and how God made us. With that being said here are a few fashion forward tips for your growing teen. Montgomery Parents I November 2014

1- Embrace your body. We are all made differently and that is a wonderful thing. Some are tall, some short, some have bigger bones or a more athletic build, etc. Don’t get caught up in why someone can wear a particular style and you can’t. That’s not what it’s about; it’s about you understanding who you are and your body. We need to remember that we can embrace and wear the same or different styles in different ways, and in return that is what makes your style stand out more. 2- Confidence- This is the key to embracing your style. Now, don’t be overly confident; you don’t want to come across the wrong way. I am talking about when you find your style and what you know you can and cannot wear, then it’s about enjoying and knowing you look and feel your best. Pass that confidence along to other young ladies. 3- Modesty- I know to a lot of teens this sounds like a scary word… I promise it’s not. Talk to your teen about modesty, style and appropriate clothes. Let her know that you want her to be comfortable in her clothes and that while fashion is about self-expression, she should understand that she can make the right impression on others when she understands that being modest can actually come across as being trendy. Let her be a good example to others. 58

4- Research- Moms, do your research with your teens. Make this fun! Find your teen’s favorite style magazines, blogs or websites, or check out Pinterest. Be open minded with your teen, but in return make your teen understand that there will be a compromise when it comes to what styles they choose to wear. 5- Creative- This goes back to the researching and can be so much fun for both you and your teen. Get ideas and if you feel that your teen may be choosing items of clothing that are too tight, too short or are just all around inappropriate then find items in the outfit she chose that might work with more appropriate pieces of clothing. 6- Layer- Layering is key to any style no matter your what age. Try a long cardigan with a t-shirt or tank. I know teens love comfort, and who doesn’t, so this can be a simple process with minimal items. Pair their favorite layers over a maxi dress, skirt, tights, jeans, sweater, or leggings. Then you can add some fun style with boots or flats and jewelry. Layers will balance out what might seem inappropriate. Love yourself and love your style!

Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website at www. centsiblysouthern. com.

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portions—and your appetite—under control. These temptationtaming tactics can help.

During the holidays, food isn’t just food. It’s a delicious experience loaded with tradition and temptation. But if you’re not careful, in the five weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, the indulgent delights of stuffing, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie and eggnog can become the harsh reality of extra pounds.

Have a Game Plan. “For several days before a holiday party, cut back on both fat and calories,” says Riska Platt, RD, a nutrition consultant for the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. That way, you’ll be able to eat a little more without worrying about it. But never arrive at your celebration starving, or you’ll overeat. Instead, have a piece of fruit, a small salad or a cup of low-fat yogurt before leaving home. A solid snack will keep you from pouncing on the bowl of nuts or potato chips as soon as you arrive.

The good news? A study by the National Institutes of Health concluded that, on average, most of us gain only about one pound between mid-November and mid-January. It doesn’t sound like much until you consider that an extra holiday pound doesn’t typically melt away after the ball drops in Times Square. Instead, it’s a catalyst. Studies show that holiday weight gain is a major contributor to weight gain throughout the year. Plus, the one-pound holiday weight surplus is an average. “In my experience, there are plenty of people who gain more like six to eight pounds,” says Linda Spangle, a weight-loss counselor and author of 100 Days of Weight Loss. Still, the holidays don’t have to be a big issue. To survive the season and beyond with your waistline intact, party healthy, not hearty. The key is developing strategies that keep your Montgomery Parents I November 2014

Cook in Your Skinny Jeans. If you’re doing the cooking for the party, slip into something less comfortable while you’re working away in the kitchen. Tight clothing will help you remain aware of your waistline and curb the urge to nibble. If you’re wearing an apron, tie it snugly.

Prevent a Test Fest. If you’re preparing a dish you’ve never made before, go ahead and taste along the way. But use a teaspoon and sip water frequently to cleanse your palate. If you’re making a repeat recipe, there’s no need to taste test. Pop in a stick of gum to curb the urge to nibble. 60

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Use Delay Tactics. When you arrive at a party or family gathering and it’s time for drinks and appetizers, have a glass of seltzer, seltzer mixed with fruit juice or diet soda. Hold off on the hors d’oeuvres and cocktails for a while and mingle without anything. “The longer you put off eating and drinking alcohol, the less time you’ll have to overindulge,” says Cathy Nonas, RD, author of Outwit Your Weight. Moreover, research shows that consuming alcohol and high-fat appetizers may cause you to eat more during the main course. To avoid feeling deprived and pressured to partake, pour your seltzer, juice spritzer or diet soda in a wine or high-ball glass. “No one will know you’re having a completely low-damage drink,” Spangle says. If others offer you food or pressure you to indulge, avoid saying: “No thank you. I’m watching my weight.” “That will draw you into uncomfortable conversations about why you really shouldn’t be a party pooper,” Spangle says. A better idea: Repeat this comeback: “Not just yet. I’m going to wait a little while.” “It’s a magical line, one that most people won’t challenge,” Spangle says.

Limit Your Choices. At holiday parties with an appetizer or buffet spread,

“Follow the rule of two,” says Brian Wansink, Ph.D., director of the food and brand lab at Cornell University and author of Slim by Design. That is, don’t put more than two foods on your plate at any given time. By doing so, “you’ll intuitively limit your choices, while focusing on your favorite foods so you don’t feel deprived,” he says. In one study Wansink conducted, participants who followed that guideline ended up eating 36 percent less over the course of an evening compared to those who didn’t. At sit-down dinners, use a different strategy: Go ahead and fill three-quarters of your plate with healthy, lower-calorie options, such as salads, grain dishes and vegetables, and reserve the remaining quarter of your plate for anything you want, whether or not it’s low calorie. Then savor each and every bite.

Beware of seconds. Another helping of mashed potatoes (110 calories), a slice of turkey breast (120) and a narrow sliver of pecan pie (215) don’t seem like much. But do the math and you’ll discover that “just a little but more” can easily add up to more than 440 calories and about 14 grams of fat. To tame temptation, take a 20-minute intermission. Have a cup of tea, or hang out in the living room away from

the holiday spread, to see if the urge to refill your plate passes.

Stash Leftovers Out of Sight. Once your holiday dinner is over, store leftover turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and the like in opaque containers. Or, “wrap leftovers in aluminum foil, not plastic wrap,” says Gerald J. Musante, Ph.D., author of The Structure House Weight Loss Plan. We’re all on a see-food diet. The mere sight of food can stimulate your appetite and cue you to eat when you didn’t plan to, he says. By hiding food in plain sight, you won’t be constantly tempted every time you open the refrigerator.

Exercise Daily. Throughout the

holiday season, squeeze in exercise every day, even if it means just putting in a 20-minute yoga DVD after the kids have gone to bed. Working out quells your stress level, boosts metabolism and provides a feeling of well-being that can fuel your resolve to eat healthy. “When you exercise consistently, you’re less likely to say, ‘Oh, forget about it. I’m just going to pig-out tonight,’” Spangle says. mp

Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues.

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Montgomery 9th Annual Interfaith Christmas Nativity Exhibit

Experience the beauty of hundreds of nativities, traditional and extraordinary, and listen as community groups perform songs of the season. This wonderful celebration is a gift to the community and provides an opportunity for each of us to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and find spiritual peace during the busy holidays. December 3-5 and Sunday the 7th from 1-8 p.m. and Saturday, December 6th from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.; 3460 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery. Open to all. FREE Admission. Sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints www.MontgomeryNativity.com

17h Annual Lights of Love

Dec. 4th, 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. Contributions will benefit the Mom & Baby Unit at Jackson Hospital. For more information, call 293.6940.

48th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival

Marks House, Pike Road; November 1 from 9:00am-4:00pm. Shop the arts and crafts and eat BBQ, sweets, and more! Special activities for the children too – face painting, a tour of the Pike Road Fire Department’s Mobile Fire Safety House and free “make and take” crafts will be provided by Home Depot. Admission is $2 at the gate with children under age 8 admitted for free. Visit us at www.pikeroadfair.org

2014 Capital City Christmas Parade

The City of Montgomery would like to invite you to the 2014 Christmas Parade. The lineup will begin Montgomery Parents I November 2014

this year at the Capital steps to Fountain. The event will be held Friday, December 19th at 6:15 p.m. A limited number of parade entries will be accepted. Registration deadline for float signup is November 25, 2013. All questions about a parade entry and parade festivities should be directed to Denise Welch at (334) 625.2118 or cgunter@montgomeryal.gov. Visit www.montgomeryal.gov for entry forms.

2014 Capital City Governors Tree Lighting

December 5 at 5:15 p.m. - Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol

“A Christmas Carol” at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival

Starting November 23-through December 24. The snowy London streets ring with carols that set the stage for Dickens magical tale of hope and redemption. Join us as the ghosts of the pasts, present and future reawaken Scrooge’s conscience. A great family outing to brighten your holiday. Recommended for children ages 6+ and up. Prices starting at $24. Please visit us at www.asf.net.

A Montgomery Family Christmas with Steven Curtis Chapman

December 2 at 7 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Steven Curtis Chapman will be joined by Brandon Heath and special guest Jillian Edwards. This event benefits Baptist Hospice. Tickets: $25 to $35. Tickets can be purchased online or at the MPAC Box Office.

Alabama Dance Theatre presents “Mistletoe”

Featuring favorite dances of Christmas Davis Theatre, Montgomery; November 1 at 2:30 p.m. A Montgomery Holiday tradition. Following the performance the children will have an opportunity to meet the performers and take photos. Tickets on sale. Please visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com for more information or call (334) 241.2800. 62

Aldersgate UMC Christmas Events

6610 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Sunday, November 30, 11 a.m, Chrismon Service. Sunday, December 7, 11:00 a.m. Christmas Song Musical Drama. Sunday, December 14, 4:00 p.m., Festival of Lessons and Carols Choirs Concert. Call for reservations. Wednesday, December 24, 4 and 6 p.m. Christmas Eve Service Communion, Carols Candlelight and Communion. Special music is my String Ensemble and Soloist. For more information call the Aldersgate music ministry office at (334) 272.6152.

Annual Holiday Light Festival The Montgomery Zoo

December 4-7, 11-14, 18-31; 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. Thousands of Christmas Lights illuminate The Montgomery Zoo in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. See the beautiful displays by train or by foot. Enjoy live entertainment, food, gifts and pictures with Santa.Free for members, Cost $15 for children ages 3 and up, which includes a train ride. Age 2 and under are free. For more information please call 240.4900.

Candlelight Harpischord Chamber Concert

Wednesday, December 11; 6 p.m. Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Rd. You are invited to Christchurch’s free concert of sacred and secular music. The 45 minute performance will feature instrumental and vocal pieces performed by the church’s chancel choir and soloists from the church as well as outside professionals. The free concert in the church’s sanctuary will begin at 6 p.m. It will be followed by a champagne and dessert reception in the parish hall. Reception tickets, which are $25 each, will be available by calling (334) 387.0566, ext. 203, beginning Wednesday, November 13th. Proceeds from the reception will benefit the Christchurch Pipe Organ Fund. Please visit www.christchurchxp.net for more details.

Christmas Open House

December 1-31 from 1-5 p.m., Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, 919 Felder Avenue. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Join us for refreshments, video and tour of period decorations. Donations requested. Call 264.4222. Please visit us at www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net.

Cruising With Santa

December 5-6, 12-13, 19--20 Family Friendly; Boards at 6:30 p.m., Cruises 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., $20-$45 per adult & $15-$25 per child. This cruise will include dinner, entertainment and Santa!! Cash Bar. Please visit us at http://www.montgomeryal.gov

Cottage Hill Candlelight Tour

Celebrate the Year of Small Towns and Downtown during Cottage Hill Historic Foundation Tour of Victorian. December 14, 2-6 p.m.; Starting location: Starting at 556 Clay Street, Montgomery. Admission charged- call for ticket information. Tickets are $10. (334) 538.3892. Please visit us at www.cottage-hill. org for more information.

Diamond Princess Ball

10th Annual presented by Landmarks Foundation. Friday, December 5 at the Ware-Farley-Hood House For Dads and Daughters grades 6 and under. $100 per couple. Black tie optional and refreshments provided. RSVP at 240.4500 or marketing@ oldalabamatown.com.

Eastdale Mall Santa’s Arrival on Ice

Eastdale Mall, November 14, 7 p.m. Call Mall Information Desk, 277.7359, for schedule.

Eastern Hills Baptist Church presents 10th Annual “Hanging of the Green”

Sunday, December 7 from 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Come help us ring in the Christmas season celebrating the hope found in the Christ Child! Also featuring: Youth Choirs, Drama, Celebration Ringers (hand bells), Ensemble, Narration, Interpretive Movement, Visual Arts and more. Come early for a good seat – No admission charge. Eastern Hills Baptist Church, 3604 Pleasant Ridge Road, Montgomery, AL (in the Forest Hills neighborhood) (334) 272.0604 ext. 214 or visit us online, www.ehbconline.com

Frazer Memorial UMC presents “Listen It’s Christmas”

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. Please call 241.9567.

Governor’s Mansion Christmas Open House Tours

1142 South Perry Street, Montgomery, 834.3022 The 1907 Governor’s Mansion will be aglow with lights and filled with the spirit of the season. December 1,8, and 15 from 5:30 until 7:30. 1142 South Perry Street, Montgomery.

It’s a Wonderful Life – The Radio Play

Wesley Hall, December 13 and 14 at 7 p.m. Frazer presents this community wide production, Christmas Theatre. Fun for the entire family! Please call (334) 272.8622 or visit www.frazerumc.org. Frazer Memorial United Methodist “Candlelight Worship” December 24 , 5 p.m. in Sanctuary and 7 p.m. in Wesley Hall. “The Longest Night Service” December 21 at 7 p.m. in the East Sanctuary. A special service for those who are experiencing a loss, grieving or lonely.

Cloverdale Playhouse, Montgomery’s Community Theater; December 11th-21st. Adapted by Joe Landry from the screenplay by Frank Capra, Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, and Johanna Sperling. One of the most popular American films of all-time and a perennial holiday favorite, It’s a Wonderful Life is the story of an angel who helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed. Directed by Greg Thornton. Please call the box office (334) 262-1530 or boxoffice@cloverdaleplayhouse.org

Glenn Miller Holiday Concert featuring Airmen of Note

Holiday Open House

Tentatively set for December 4 & 5. Annual Glenn Miller Holiday Concert. This year’s performance is free to the public. Will be accepting canned food donations for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. This performance will be held at the Davis Theatre. Featuring The United States

@ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

December 6th, 1 to 4 p.m.; The festivities for the event include musical performances by local school choirs and performance groups, holiday art projects, cookies and lemonade, and horse and carriage rides in the park. Holiday Open

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House is free and open to the public, so invite your friends and family and spend the afternoon at MFA celebrating the season.

Holiday Pops Concert

December 15th, 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Join the MSO for an evening of everyone’s seasonal favorites. Will feature celebrated Baritone Michael Hicks. To order tickets please call the Symphony office at (334) 240.4004.

Huntingdon Offers Annual Christmas Celebration

Share some holiday cheer at Huntingdon College’s annual Community Christmas Celebration Thursday, December 4th, 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 The events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Huntingdon College Office of Community Relations at (334) 833.4515.

Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis

December 6th; 5k Run or Walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation Also 1 mile fun run (chasing an Elf) for under 8’s and 1 mile walk for those of us who want to support the Arthritis Foundation. Please visit http://JBRMontgomery.kintera.org/.

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

Old Alabama Town Open House

December 4th, 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Enjoy the holidays, early-Alabama style! Live holiday music, traditional pioneer crafts for children, storytelling & costumed guests, cookies and hot cider. Please call (334) 240.4500 or www.oldalabamatown.com for more information.

Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church Annual Christmas Production December 13 at 4 p.m. Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church, 1550 East Washington St., will host its Annual Christmas Production, by the Youth Dept. Join them as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Call (334) 462.3048.

First Baptist presents the Joy Singers Christmas Program

Sunday, November 30 at 6:15 p.m. Main Sanctuary in First Baptist Church, 305 South Perry Street. Come join us in a narration and familiar carols presented by the JOY Singers Senior Adult Choir. Please call (334) 834.6310 or visit us at www.montgomeryfbc.org.

First Baptist presents The Living Christmas Tree

First Baptist Church, 305 South Perry Street December 12-14. Come joins us for the “Living Christmas Tree”. Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage. Please call (334) 834.6310 or visit us at www.montgomeryfbc.org.

The Montgomery Chorale Holiday Performances

My Soul’s Delight- Songs of Life and Hope November 7-9 at the Davis Theatre Tickets, please call (334) 265.3737 or visit www. montgomerychorale.org

“The Nutcracker”

Montgomery’s Favorite Holiday Tradition for over 38 years presented by The Montgomery Ballet. The world’s most famous Christmas ballet. A Montgomery tradition since 1976, this year’s production promises to delight all ages with brilliant dancing, beautiful scenery, and colorful costumes. Come celebrate the holiday season with the Montgomery Ballet as they present this Christmas classic with evening performances at 7:30 pm, December 19th and December 20th, and matinees at 2 p.m., December 20th and 21st. All reserved seats. Tickets are $10 to $30 for adults. We offer military, senior and student discounts. Prices are dependent on convenience and/or handling fees. For reservations, call (334) 409.0522 or visit www.montgomeryballet.org

The Shoppes at EastChase

Season’s Greetings Parade: Saturday, November 15 at 9:00 a.m. It’s a parade for Santa’s arrival at The Shoppes at EastChase! Join us as we welcome him in style with a festive parade and party! The day will include a parade for Santa, carriage rides, cookies and cocoa stations, face painting and performances by the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Carriage rides will run from 11-2 p.m. The grand finale of the parade will include performances of “A Christmas Carole” by Alabama Shakespeare

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6! The baking fun will be $10 and participants must register by December 3. Reservations must be made through the The Shoppes at EastChase Guest Services Office. Call 334-279-6046 to reserve your spot! Carriage Rides: (next to Earth Fare Organic Grocer) Shoppers can enjoy holiday carriage rides through The Shoppes at EastChase Saturday, December 13 & 20, from 5 - 7 p.m. Carriages rides will be $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Take a ride around EastChase and enjoy the beautiful holiday sights and sounds. Money collected will be donated to support the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. For more information call 334-279-6046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com.

“Tis the Season!”

Planetarium Beginning December - 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. For tickets, call (334)241.4799. Or visit http://montgomery.troy.edu/planetarium for details.

Just for Kids YMCA Camp Chandler Holiday Camps

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, Alabama Christmas Camp Dec. 21st - Dec 23rd arriving on Dec 21st at 4-5 p.m. and departing Dec. 23rd at 4-5 p.m. This adventure is for old and new campers (ages 5-15), old and new staff, friends and relatives. Fee: $100 (members) and $115 (non-members), which includes t-shirt and camp store. Call Jeff Reynolds at 229.0031.

YMCA Goodtimes Holiday Childcare

Call 279.8878 to register. Program will run everyday except Thanksgiving Day or the day after. 7:00 a.m. thru 6 p.m. Cost per day; members $23 and nonmembers $28.

New Years Eve Bash @ Camp Chandler

Dec. 31st - Jan 1st, arriving Dec. 31st at 3 - 4 p.m. and departing Jan 1st at 10-11 a.m. Celebrate New Year’s Eve Camp Chandler style with “ball drop,” dance, and fireworks. Ages 5 - 15. Parents, let us take care of your children’s fun, so you can celebrate the New Year together. Fee: $40 for members and $50 for non-members.. Call Jeff Reynolds at 229.0031 or log on to www.campchandler.org for more information on all camps.

Eclectic Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas

December 2-7, Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. This

Landmarks Foundation’s 10th Annual

Daddy Daughter Diamond Princess Ball

“A Night Your Princess Will Never Forget”

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Festival on Main Street in front of Dillard’s. The annual tree lighting with Santa will be at 6 p.m. near the fountain and fireworks will follow immediately after. For more information call 334-279-6046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com. After Thanksgiving Gift Card Giveaway: Friday, November 28. Shop at The Shoppes at EastChase on Black Friday and get rewarded! The Shoppes will be giving away a total of $3,000 in gift card giveaways—that’s a $500 gift card given away every hour from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. during Black Friday at Express, DSW and GAP. Find out more at www.theshoppesateastchase.com Photos with Santa: Have your picture taken with Santa! Starting Saturday, November 15, you may stop by Santa’s Workshop on Main Street to visit Santa. Kids can enjoy the excitement of being in Santa’s workshop while getting their picture taken with Santa. Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Starting November 15) Sundays from 1 – 6 p.m. (Starting November 16) Friday, December 12 from 5 – 8 p.m. *Pet Night Monday, December 22 & Tuesday, December 23 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 24 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, December 13 & 20, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Kids can enjoy breakfast with Santa at Panera Bread at The Shoppes at EastChase. $10 will include visits with Santa, breakfast and photos. Participants must register by December 11. Reservations must be made through the The Shoppes at EastChase Guest Services Office. Call 334-279-6046 to reserve your spot! Baking Cookies with Santa: Saturday, December 6, 8:30-10:00 a.m. Kids can enjoy baking yummy treats with Santa at Williams-Sonoma at The Shoppes at EastChase on Saturday, December

Friday, December 5th, 2014

at The Ware-Farley-Hood House Girls Grade 6 and Under * $100 per couple Black tie optional * Refreshments Provided RSVP at 334-240-4500 or marketing@oldalabamatown.com

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event will take place at 1455 Claud Road, just south of Eclectic on AL Highway 63. Please call 578.4846 or visit our website at www.aneclecticministry.org. 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.

Millbrook Christmas Music and Tree Lighting

Millbrook Village Green Stage, December 4 at 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., Performances by school, church and group choirs and Christmas caroling for everyone.

The Spirit of Christmas Parade

Dec 6th, Parade is at 2 p.m. Millbrook’s Annual Christmas Parade will begin at the Sports Complex behind Smokehouse Bar-B-Que and will end at the intersection at City Hall. The theme for this year’s parade is “A Winter Wonderland” Christmas”. Activities will be from 1:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Vendors will be set up at Village Green Park; there will be arts, crafts, and food. This is one of the great things about living in a small community - family fun, not too crowded and loads of excitement for everyone. No admission fee. Call (334) 285.7232.

Prattville Annual Christmas Concert by Prattville Community Chorus and Prattville Pops Friday, December 12, 7 p.m. at the Doster Center. This event is free and open to the public.

Children’s Art Workshop

Saturday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 – 3 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 6 from 2 – 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 – 3 p.m. All workshops will be held at the Creative Arts Center (beside the PPD) The Holiday Art Season will open with this annual free Children’s Art Workshop. Children will be able to create a piece of artwork to keep or to give as a gift to family or friends. This workshop is Free, but space is limited

and reservations are required. To register or for more information, please contact the special events office at (334) 595.0854.

Christmas Tree Lighting

Tuesday, November 25th with festivities beginning at 6 p.m. The Prattville Pops and local dance groups will perform and we will flip the switch to light the official Christmas tree. This is a free, family friendly event. For more information, visit www. prattville.com.

City of Prattville Christmas Parade

Monday, December 1st at 7 p.m. Parade will begin that the Autauga County Courthouse. Theme: “A Christmas Carol”; Lots of floats, dancers, horses, candy and trinkets for everyone. This is a free, family friendly event. Applications available online at www.prattvilleal.gov. Deadline to register is November 25. Please call 595.0854 for more information.

overlooking the cheerful, sunny town of Whoville as it prepares for the Christmas season in anticipation. In bitter contempt towards the season, the Grinch plots against the upcoming holiday and decides to ruin it for the Whos by disguising as Santa Claus and riding around in a sled drawn by his pet dog Max, robbing each family of any wrapped gifts on Christmas Eve. His heart is touched by the little Cindy Lou’s innocence and the true meaning of the season; the Grinch repents by returning all of the stolen presents to the Whos and partaking in the traditions of the holiday season. This Dr. Suess story is brought to life by members of the Prattville Ballet and students of C.J.’s Dance Factory on Saturday, December 6th at the Jeff State Performing Arts Center at 7:00 p.m. For ticket information, (group rates available) For more information please call (334) 467.8603.

Tallassee Christmas Tree Lighting

East Memorial presents The Hope of Christmas

Dec. 5 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall

featuring the Living Nativity in song and drama December 13th-14th, at 6 p.m. East Memorial Baptist Church, 1320 Old Ridge Road, invites the Public to experience The Hope of Christmas featuring the Living Nativity in song and drama. Admission is free. For more information contact the church office at (334) 365.7500 or visit our website at www.eastmemorial.org.

Mistletoe Market

Friday, November 7 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Saturday, November 8, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mistletoe Market, a merchant’s market held at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church, Family Life Center, is a great opportunity to begin your holiday shopping. Great holiday gift ideas including home décor, clothing, jewelry, bed & bath, gift baskets, food gifts and more. 40 vendors. Visit www.visithistoricprattville. com or call 365.7058 for more information.

The Grinch Ballet

“The Grinch Ballet” is about an odd green recluse of an unknown species who resides on a mountaintop

Holiday Market

December 5 from noon until 6:30 p.m. and December 6 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Veteran’s Park in front of City Hall.

Holiday Parade

The parade will be Dec. 6th at 10 a.m. Begins at Tallassee Church of Christ and goes thru Central Blvd down to Barnette Blvd. and end at Tallassee High School. For more information please call (334) 283.5151.

Lake Martin/Alexander City Christmas Market

Saturday, December 6, 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Children’s Harbor, Children’s Harbor Lodge Conference Center, Lake Martin. The 9th annual event to raise funds for Children’s Harbor is a chance to add some fun to your Christmas shopping. Admission is free. A variety of items will be available such as hand poured candles, mirror art, jewelry, pottery, hand

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beaded bags, art works, luggage and more. We will have breakfast and lunch food for sale and a bake sale. To find us from Wetumpka take Highways 231N and then 14 to 170 then left on 163. For further information, please call (334) 857.2021.

Hometown Christmas Parade

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One of East Alabama’s largest parades featuring elaborate floats, dancing groups, marching bands, horse-riding clubs and Santa Claus highlight. December 1; 6-7 p.m. Downtown Alexander City.

Santa and Tree Lighting

Help us welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus to Alexander City-December 1 from 4:30 until 5:30 p.m. - just in time for the Christmas Parade. Free event, Downtown at the Bud Porch Center Alexander City. 1:00-4:30 p.m. (256) 329.9227. www.alexandercity.org

Wetumpka ARRAC Christmas Faire

November 8h – December 21st, Thursday thru Friday and Sunday from noon until 2 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Arts Center (300 Tallassee St., Wetumpka, AL). The Arts Center Lobby and Hall will be filled with trees and tables to display quality local hand made gifts and decorations. For more information call 334-300-9394, leave a message at the center by calling (334) 578.9485 or email artistdirector@arrac.org

Charis Crafters 16th Annual Christmas Show and Tasting Fair

November 7th-8th. Wetumpka Civic Center. Friday, November 7th from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 8h from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Annual show features baked goods, canned goods and crafts from more than 20 artisans. Door prizes every hour. Tickets are $5 for both days and a door prize given every hour. Come taste foods prepared by members from our recipe cookbooks which will also be on sale. Contact Sheila Green (334) 567.3594 or Patricia McCullers (334) 567.5785.

City of Wetumpka Tree Lighting

December 2nd, in Gold Star Park. Photos with Santa and hot cocoa. Visit www.cityofwetumpka. com for more information.

Wetumpka “An Evening in December”

December 4th at 7 p.m. Two gospel bands- The Nelons and The LeFevre Quartet. Please call for ticket Wetumpka City Hall for ticket information. Wetumpka Nativity and Luminary Open House December 5th, Downtown Wetumpka from 6:30 until 8 p.m. Please visit www.cityofwetumpka.com Wetumpka Christmas Decoration Contest December 9th; 6:00 p.m. Businesses and residential. There will be judging to those who have submitted applications. Prizes will be awarded.

Christmas on the Coosa

December 13: Character Pancake Breakfast from 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. Characters work around the room and sing. Great family event. Christmas extravaganza with arts and crafts, parade, food, quilt show, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. Gold Star Park & the Courthouse Veranda, Wetumpka. Booths will begin

F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADITIO NAL W O RSH IP 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 A M SUNDAY SCH O O L 9: 45 AM TH E W ELL 11: 00 AM

www.prattvillemethodist.org 67

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selling at 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Fireworks immediately following Boat Parade at 5 p.m. Please call (334) 567.1313 or (334) 567.4811. www.wetumpkachamber.com.

New Year’s Eve Ball

December 31st from 7 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Tickets required. Tickets can be purchased at the City Administrative Building. Please call 567.1384.

“A Very Second Samuel Christmas” At the Wetumpka Depot

Wetumpka, AL- The Christmas sequel to the beloved play “Second Samuel”. The familiar residence of Second Samuel, GA light the way for a Christmas miracle. December 15-16 at 7:30 and December 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets will sell for $16 by calling box office. Tickets can be purchased by calling 334-8681440 or online at wetumpkadepot.com. The Depot Theatre is located at 300 S. Main Street in the heart of historic downtown Wetumpka.

Eufaula/Dothan Eufaula Christmas Tour of Homes

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. Begins December 6th. Visit www.eufaulapilgrimage.com.

The Nutcracker

Southeast Alabama Dance Company presents its 36th annual performance of this holiday classic. Watch as snowflakes dance, flowers waltz, dolls come to life and the Nutcracker turns into a charming prince. December 5-7; Dothan Civic Center; (334) 702.7139 www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org Admission charged.

Victorian Christmas

Sample turn-of-the-century desserts, sip hot chocolate or mulled cider and try your hand at making traditional Christmas decorations. December 14th; 1:00-4:00p.m. (334) 794.3452. www.landmarkpark.com. Free.

Calera Santa Claus Special Train Ride Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Santa rides the train with you! Tell him what you would like for Christmas as he poses for photos. Each child will receive a Christmas gift! November 29th, December 6th, 13th, & 20th. For tickets and info call (800) 943.4490 or order online at www. hodrrm.org.

North Pole Express Train Rides Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

Fridays, Nov. 21, 28, December 5,12 and 19 Saturdays, Nov. 22, 29, December 6, 13, and 20 Sundays, Nov. 23, 30, and Dec. 7 and 14 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! Enjoy chocolate Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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.

Out of State / Georgia Annual Fantasy In Lights

The most spectacular holiday light and sound show in the south begins November 21- December 30! 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 custom-designed especially for Callaway Gardens–to celebrate not only the joy of the season but the wonder of nature in this idyllic setting. Drive your car or ride the Jolly Trolley to experience scenes like March of the Toy Soldiers and Snowflake Valley. At Robin Lake Beach, enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Nativity’, light and sound shows enticing passers-by to stop, reflect and enjoy. Sunday, November 23, 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! For tickets please visit www.callawaygardens.com.

A Cantus Christmas

December 22, 7:30pm. Columbus, Ga. This regularly sold-out tradition tells the Christmas story with musical masterpieces and audience carols. The professional chorus Cantus Columbus presents the eleventh installment of Message of the Season— Music of the Masters in Legacy Hall. www.rivercenter.org

Cirque Dreams: Holidaze!

Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m. Columbus, Ga. Broadway’s Cirque Dreams dazzles with its latest Holidaze spectacular. Over 300 costume and 20 acts makes it the perfect family treat. Visit www. rivercenter.org.

Atlanta New Year’s Eve Festival

December 31; Peachtree Street, Downtown Atlanta Georgia. 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 Underground Atlanta ... enjoy the ‘official’ Peach Drop at midnight - followed by a really awesome New Year’s fireworks display, with live performances..

A Tuna Christmas

December 11-13, 18-23 at 7:30 p.m. at Foley Hall, Columbus, Ga. Christmas returns to Texas’ third smallest town. Everybody’s frantic about the annual yard display contest, which Vera Carp hopes to win for the 15th year in a row. She faces the competition from Didi Snavely – the proprietress of Didi’s Used weapons – and Inita Goodwin and Helen Bedd – the cowboy-loving Tastee Kreme waitresses. Again, the entries are threatened by the Christmas Phantom. The whole town suspects juvenile delinquent Stanley Bumiller. Aunt Pearl knows better but she ain’t talking’. Columbus’ biggest hit turns 10 years old! For tickets please visit www. springeroperahouse.org. 68

Magical Nights of Lights

November 21-December 31; 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. www.lakelanierislands.com

Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain

Snow Mountain is Atlanta’s first snow park! The 2014/2015 season opens November 22, 2014 – February 22, 2015. 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! www.stonemountainpark.com

Stone Mountain Christmas

November 8-January 4. 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! For details and tickets, www.stonemountainpark.com

Birmingham and North Alabama Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”

With its tenth annual performance of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™, Alabama Ballet remains one of only seven companies in the world currently licensed to present this holiday classic. All performed to Balanchine’s brilliant specifications; dazzling choreography, opulent costumes, and extravagant sets make this production unlike any other. The addition of a community cast of children from the area make this performance truly magical. Join us December 12-14 and 19-21 at the Samford Wright Center for this joyous spectacle. In addition to the Birmingham performances, Alabama Ballet will also tour to Anniston, AL. Balanchine’s Nutcracker™ is more than a performance; it is a holiday tradition you and your family do not want to www.montgomeryparents.com

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Breakfast in Santa’s Workshop at the McWane Science Center

Two dates to choose from: December 13 or 20; 8:30am until 10:00 a.m.. Bring your little elves to have breakfast in Santa’s Workshop. Decorate gingerbread houses, have breakfast together, explore the Winter Wonderland exhibit and visit with Santa! Be sure to bring your camera! Ticket includes admission to the museum, breakfast, activities and visit with Santa! Reservations are required. Call (205) 714.8414. Cost: $20 Adults, $15 Kids for non-members and $15 adults and $10 kids for members. www.mcwane.org

Christmas Craft Show

Gardendale Civic Center hosts the Christmas Craft Show with over 60 booths. Only handmade, hand crafted items. Pictures with Santa too! November 14-15; (205) 683.0354. www.northartscouncil. webs.com. Free.

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Christmas Light Show DeSoto Caverns

November 1-January 1. This special light show celebrates the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and is shown on every caverns tour. www. desotocavernspark.com.

Christmas Village Festival

Jefferson Convention Complex, Birmingham. November 5-9 Wednesday-Saturday 10:00am8:00pm; 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. www.christmasvillagefestival.com

McWane Science Center ‘Magic of Model Trains Exhibit’

The holidays are picking up steam at McWane Science Center with the return of the Magic of Model Trains exhibit, November 22- January 11. Discover trains of every shape and size inside this popular exhibit which features over a dozen different train displays. Sets include several tiny trains that are built to scale with surrounding cities and scenes including the LG&W that depicts central Alabama in the 1950’s. Every set in the exhibit is designed to scale with the size of the trains. The meticulous detail of the scenery including covered bridges, downtown storefronts and of course, several train stations will keep your family entertained for hours! www.mcwane.org

Winter Wonderland! at McWane Science Center

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Brrrr! When the weather outside is frightful, McWane is so delightful! November 22-January 11; Come inside the museum this holiday season and let your imagination be your guide through the new Winter Wonderland exhibits where snowflakes glisten above your head and toy trains zip around the tracks. Inside this holiday exhibit, wonder is in the air as children explore the snow room where everyday they can touch the “almost” snow! Kids’ laughter can be heard as they try to catch fish through the ice. Brave winter wonder seekers can even sled down a giant snow hill between the third and second floors in the museum. Then, skate around the ice pond in your slippery socks. www.mcwane.org mp 69

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A Page in a Book The Best Books from A to Z Sharing the alphabet is one of the tools out of the box when we begin to teach kids their first ‘school’ skill. Using the basic building blocks of our language, the alphabet is the most common touchstone that parents and caregivers turn to when seeking to expand kids’ knowledge base as they approach the reading age. The ABCs offer endless teachable moments with children and we’re surrouned by objects that all start with…a letter. But rather than falling back on the popular refrains of ‘A’ is for ‘apple’, ‘B’ is for ‘ball’ and so on – the following titles present 26 clever and refreshing introductions to the letters that get all English language learning started. Check out these titles that are the alphabetical order of the day!

ABCers

by Carole Lexa Schaefer, Illustrated by Pierr Morgan (Viking/Penguin) Exploring the alphabet becomes a team effort in Schaefer and Morgan’s creative take on the first letters that get it all started. Moving away from commonplace nouns and toward active descriptions of the moments that children experience in real life, this book teaches letters through shared activities that are familiar to kids and their playmates. The alphabet lives in the moment with delightfully illustrated offerings like ‘A’ is for ‘arm linkers’, ‘W’ is for ‘water splashers’ and more. Highlighting the things that children do together forms the theme that moves this tribute to the alphabet into the active mode category of great ABC titles!

Once Upon an Alphabet: Short Stories for All the Letters

by Oliver Jeffers (Philomel/Penguin) Expanding beyond the traditional approach of teaching the alphabet with one-on-one word association, author/illustrator Oliver Jeffers has turned his talents toward the letters that got it all started. Crafting short stories (each only a few sentences long), Jeffers introduces every letter with a clear title page that features the starring member of the alphabet, followed by a brief tale that embeds the key player in both starting and supporting roles. Less about learning the alphabet and more about living it, this charming primer on the building blocks of our language is a richly crafted and awesomely sly paean to the letters that make the words that make the stories…about the letters we love.

R is for Robot: A Noisy Alphabet

by Adam F. Watkins (Price Stern Sloan / Penguin) Tasked with building an alphabet, an army of robots undertake a project that creates a cacophony of sound as the ABCs takes shape. Using the phonetic approach, the letters of the alphabet are introduced through the sounds generated as each letter is hammered, hoisted, and wheeled into place. An onomatopoetic feast of hisses, beeps, puffs and whirs accompany each leading letter as the mechanical team of robots work to get the alphabet in shape and in order. Just like the letters of the alphabet, each page reveals uniquely designed, marvelously illustrated robots that drive the energy in this picture book. This is the alphabet book that will be ‘yoinked’ off the reading shelf to enjoy again and again!

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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Don’t let this month’s focus on food – and football – overshadow the spirit of thanksgiving. Show kids how to express their thanks with these inspired ideas. Because actions really do speak louder than words. 1. Apples for the teacher. Take the kids on an apple-picking expedition at a nearby orchard or hit the farmer’s market for fresh fruit. Then get in the kitchen and bake cinnamon-apple muffins together (try this 5-star recipe from Robyn at Addapinch.com). Give the muffins to your child’s teacher with a hand-written note that says, “I couldn’t have picked a better teacher! You are the apple of my eye.”

2. Word up. Boost your brainpower by learning how people say thanks in a load of other languages. You’ll find written words for thank you with pronunciation tips at Factmonster.com and a video presentation of 29 thankful expressions on Youtube.com. Set a goal to say “thank you” three times each day in a foreign language and soon these expressions will feel familiar.

3. Picture it. Take a photo of your child with something (or someone) he’s grateful for – like a loving grandparent or an awesome bus driver. Post it on Facebook for others to see and challenge your friends to catch your attitude of gratitude and share their own images of appreciation. Let’s make gratitude go viral. 4. Pay it forward. You’ve undoubtedly heard that money talks. This month, make it say “thanks!” by donating to charitable organizations in your community. Not sure where to start? Donations to the Feeding America BackPack Program are used to give weekend eats to 230,000 children who get free lunch at school but go hungry at home.

5. Rake it up. Grab a rake and a pack of paper leaf bags and head outside to haul in the harvest. Kids can scoop up neighbors’ leaves for free or ask for a small donation to pass on to a community garden or green space. When the work is

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what to do in case of

SUSPECTED CONCUSSION A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion:

n Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY n Should be urgently assessed medically n Should not be left alone n Should not drive a motor vehicle

ThinkFirst _____________________________________________

Alabama

www.ChildrensAL.org/ThinkFirstPrograms In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER.

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done, take the leaves to your city’s dropoff site or to a garden center for composting. Then enjoy a cup of cocoa together. You’ve earned it.

6. Talk turkey. In the US and Canada, many food banks serve traditional Thanksgiving dinners to people in need. Find a food bank near you using the search engine at FeedingAmerica.org and volunteer to work at an upcoming turkey drive. There, you’ll have the privilege of saying thank you to the generous people who bring in the birds, and all the side-dish fixings. (Montgomery Area Food Bank, Inc., 334.263.3784)

7. Express your good fortune. Bake your own fortune cookies with personalized messages inside to remind your kids just how lucky you are to have them in your life. Find simple recipes at AllRecipes.com or order fancy custom cookies at KCFortuneCookieFactory.com.

8. Give the gift of time. Start a family time bank to give kids a chance to help one another. Your teenager might spend an hour designing student council campaign posters for your middle school student who pays it back by folding his big brother’s share of the laundry pile. Pitching in on family projects lets everyone experience the joys of teamwork. Learn more about time banking at timebank.org. 9. Launch an attack. Of appreciation, that is. Pen a heartfelt thank you note to hide in your husband’s wallet or brief case. Leave a lipstick kiss on his side of the bathroom mirror in the morning. Text thank you messages to his cell phone throughout the day. Your goal: To remind him (and yourself!) how grateful you are to have a sweet and supportive partner. 10. Fill everybody’s bucket. Teach young kids the value of good deeds with the book Fill a Bucket by Carol McCloud and Katherine Martin. To reinforce its message, ask kids to write down good deeds on slips of paper and put them in small tin buckets labeled with family members’ names. Pretty soon, kids will be clambering to see who can fill up their bucket first. And everyone will be happier for it. mp Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mom who is grateful for knock-knock jokes and bedtime stories. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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Prattville Youth Help ‘Pick Up a Park’

Family Karate Center News

The students and instructors of Family Karate Center were honored to be chosen again this year as the exclusive demonstration team for the families at Maxwell Air Force Base.There were many fun activities included in the National Night Out program, as well as hot dogs,cotton candy,blow-up bouncy houses,prizes from many organizations,and the demonstration team of Master Carole Smith from Family Karate Center. The two-to-four-year-old class brought many smiles from families as the children showed skills of self-protection they learn in classes offered each day. After demonstrating techniques for breaking away from abductors, the youth classes also demonstrated a BULLY BUSTERS class, where children learn NOT TO BE A TARGET! The adult and teen classes demonstrated women’s self-defense and adult weapon self-defense next, along with a sparring and board-breaking demonstration. With 25 free uniforms given away at each demonstration, the list filled up quickly. MILITARY DISCOUNTS are still offered daily, seven days a week! The first classes are free so you can get to know your child’s instructor. There is a FREE fitness center for all parents to use also. If you would like a FREE demonstration of selfdefense for your group. just call Master Carole Smith at 277-4911 or come by 8159 Vaughn Road each day.

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

Youth Leadership Autauga County members held “Pick Up a Park Day” September 27 at Pratt Park. The YLAC goal was to promote Governor Robert Bentley’s declaration of 2014 as The Year of Alabama Parks. Members worked on spreading the word about the importance of responsible litter disposal with a focus on litter pickup in public green spaces - removing debris and improving the landscape. YLAC members gathered in the morning for registration and distribution of supplies, and then spent the next three hours joining with other recruited community volunteers to pick up litter throughout Prattville and Autauga County. YLAC welcomed additional volunteer support from PALS (People Against a Littered State), St. Marks’ Episcopal Church Youth Group, Prattville High School Future Business Leaders of America, Prattville High School Beta Club, Prattville Christian Academy students, Marbury High School students, Autauga Academy students, and many other community volunteers. A special thank-you is also extended to the following people who worked in conjunction with PALS to extend “Pick Up a Park Day” to their local parks: Autaugaville Mayor F. B. Ward, Autaugaville town council members, the 1981 Autaugaville School alumni who covered pickup in Autaugaville, and Marchelle Henderson who assisted with pickup at Old Kingston Community Park. Local Parks and Recreation Department workers also performed park maintenance and lawn cleanup efforts during the week. All of the parks were freshly cut, which aided volunteers in being able to spot and pick up litter. John O’Driskell, PALS president, provided much-needed organizational support as well as providing the bags used in cleanup. The following companies provided donations: Alabama Power (through PALS) donated litter-pickers; * Advanced Disposal donated bottled water; PASS (Peers are Staying Straight) - Mrs. Tracie Cheeley; Pratt Park loaned the use of the pavilion at registration; and Prattville Lawn donated bottled water and candy. A total of 71 volunteers picked up 98 bags of litter in the following parks, public areas and adjacent roadsides throughout Prattville and Autauga County: Pratt Park, Farmers Market Lot, Pratt Park Creek Area, Prattville Kindergarten School, Prattville Library, public access area behind stadium and police department, Newton Park, Spinners Park, Cooters Pond Park, Wilderness Park, Overlook Park, Jasmine Trail, Bell Park, Mac Gray Park, David Whetstone Sports Complex, Upper Kingston Park, North Highland Park, Kiwanis Park, Spring Hill Park, Autaugaville Park, and Old Kingston Community Park. If you would like to participate in future events to control litter in Prattville, please contact Brandon Perdue at (334) 224-7811. Local youth looking for opportunities for leadership and community activism are encouraged to call and register as a member of the newly forming YOUTH PALS group. High school students looking to strengthen and diversify their portfolio of volunteer impacts (for college admissions competitions) are especially urged to apply.

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Mann Dancers Participate in Auburn Halftime Show

Dancers from Mann Dance Studio participated in the Auburn/ San Jose halftime show on September 6. From left are Dixie McGilliard, Annabelle May, Jalisa Rawlinson, Brennan AcQuaro, Nancy Whetstone, Molli Logan, Carmella Clarke, Kelsey Bentley, Chloe LeMaster, Riley Anne Clark, Makayla Logan, Emeline Jones and Jayla Baker.

Ability Sport Network at Huntingdon College sponsors wheelchair basketball for youth and young adults, ages 6-21, who have a physical disability and are interested in playing. Wheelchair sports are not limited to just wheelchair users; in fact, many of our athletes have the ability to walk. For more information, visit asn.huntingdon.edu. Players can join at any time. Sign up today! To register, please contact Dr. Lisa Clark at (334) 833-4451 or lclark@ hawks.huntingdon.edu. There is no cost to participate.

Training Classes Offered for Foster Parents

Alabama Baptist Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Homes and Family Ministries will begin its next session of foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area soon. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@ abchome.org.

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Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing

Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Grandma’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. However, the Hands-On Gallery and Grandma’s Attic will temporarily close for 2nd floor hallway renovations this summer. The Museum will remain closed until Monday, August 19. You can visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. Stay tuned in for upcoming events from the Archives, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/ Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a

significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. Call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www. blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown. com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www. touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m.

November 2014 River Region Contra Dancing Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and families are welcome. All levels of experience – including no experience. Dancing is on 1st & 3rd Fridays at 7 p.m. at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 5260 Vaughn Road. For more info, visit www.riverregioncontradance.com or call Katherine Thomas at 334-361-6572. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic

Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/ person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com

Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com. 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 class is November 12 and classes are offered 10:30-11 and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

Classes

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are

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taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. Content includes: Traffic Light Eating, Brainy Breakfasts, the Truth about Fats, Powering up with Protein and Play, and more! 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 information, contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents 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. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. Baptist Medical Center East. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Math & Science for Preschoolers Classes for “3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science)” are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children ages 3-5 will learn math and science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. long and $8/week. Join us at 1585 E Main St, Prattville (next to Pri-Med), to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook for times. To register or for more info, contact Susan Trombley at 321blasttimes@outlook.com or (334) 380-1879. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Fun, interactive 3-week series of nutrition 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 information contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook - www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Provides expectant mothers 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 IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Slow Flow Yoga Lunchtime Yoga Classes at Old Alabama Town. Take a break from your computer desk and relieve your body of all that stress with some slow flow yoga! Instructor Juliet Thomas provides downtown workers with a convenient way to stretch and reenergize before going back into the office. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to 310 N. Hull Street (Lucas Tavern) and we will direct you to a place to change and set up your mat. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days) Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. Pay by cash or check. Make checks payable to Juliet Thomas. Blocks will be provided. Avoid a big meal before class. Please arrive 5-10 minutes early. Wear comfortable clothing, something to easily move around in. Mats and props are provided if needed, although students may prefer their own mat after a few yoga sessions. Bring water to hydrate on your walk back to the office! No sugary drinks or other food allowed. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com

Services

American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening

shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/ patients_volunteers.html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Hannah Taylor at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org 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, & Macon Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery office at 612-8162 or call 1-800-ACS-2345 and you will be connected to the Montgomery office.** 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 Luella Giles at 612-8162 for more info. Man to Man is an American Cancer Society support group for men who are battling or have survived prostate cancer. It offers them education, discussion and support. Please call for next meeting dates at the American Cancer Society Office in Montgomery. 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. College scholarships to cancer survivors 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 www.cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345

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Calendar/Support Groups The Central Alabama Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets 10 a.m.-noon on second Saturdays at Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church, 6000 Atlanta Highway, Room 3105. We have guest speakers, video presentations, printed information and a group that welcomes sharing in an informal setting. Refreshments provided. Interested patients, family members and friends are encouraged to come. For more info, contact Lorenzo and Elaine Duncan at (334) 281-8158, or by e-mail at duncan6563@gmail.com. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

Divorce Support

Divorce Care and Divorce Care 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays starting August 22 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Divorce Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info.

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 284-2721. We will also collect Toys for Tots for anyone interested in participating. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. Grief Recovery After Suicide, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., first Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Room 3102. This group is open to family members and friends who have lost a loved one as the result of suicide. Group offers a confidential environment in which to receive support, hope and information. Contact Rev. Susan Beeson, 272-8622. Grief Share, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. HOM provides quality palliative care to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in our community affected by terminal illness; maintains the highest ethical standards; and educates the community about the hospice concept and end-of-life issues. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen. org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Our purpose is to glorify God as we serve Him in comforting and encouraging each other in our grief and growth.

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 Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. Each participant needs to bring a sack lunch. On the first Thursday of each month, the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 beginning at 10:30 a.m. For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. 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,

November 2014 Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance, Room 3101 at Frazer UMC, 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 2728622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 201-9638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChase-NE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group will begin meeting on May 12 from 6:30-7:45 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group will meet on second Mondays of each month. Meetings are open to anyone who is interested in issues concerning mental health. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for directions/ details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. This group is just getting started so a specific meeting time has not been set yet. Location will be 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 3249568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 3rd Tuesdays from 6:30-8 p.m. in room 3104. This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For info, call 272-8622. 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 information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@ yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org.

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Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Parent Support

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his daughter Erin. It gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. All fathers in the River Region are invited to bring their daughters to the library to read, laugh and have fun. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more information, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (569-1500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_heather@yahoo.com). Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http://montgomerymultiplesclub. org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, need a little break? MOPS is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Visit www. montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail VFCMOPS@ gmail.com.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information.

Single Parents Support

Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner

of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

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. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo. com. Special Needs Skate 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more information, contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Teens/Families Support

Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info! “Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way. Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m. “Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity! “Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children. “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating. “Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher! Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three

weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot! You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www.familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or e-mail trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

This Month Monday, November 3

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children, ages 3 through 2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 mins. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 10:15 a.m. or 1585 E. Main St. in Prattville (next to Pri-Med) at 12:05 p.m., to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@ outlook.com, or call 334-380-1879 to register or request more info.

Tuesday, November 4

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Tuesday at Kazoo Toys. Children, ages 3-2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 minutes. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 4:45 pm, to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request more info.

Wednesday, November 5

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. The Capital City Master Gardener Association provides a monthly educational series called “Lunch and Learn,” on a variety of gardening topics in a classroom setting. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided. Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Wednesday at Prattville Wesleyan Preschool. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@ outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information. Alabama Frontier Days -- Through November 9 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Fort Toulouse - Fort Jackson Park, Wetumpka. Alabama Frontier Days focuses on demonstrating what life was like in the Frontier South during the early years of European and American exploration and settlement, 1700-1820. The public can experience this living history as many frontier trades and crafts will be demonstrated by living history specialists and craftsmen in the costume of the periods. From 1700-1763 the Alabama River Valley was part of French Colonial Louisiana. It was also claimed by the English, and both of these powers competed for the allegiance of the Indians. From 1763 until 1790 the English, Spanish and Indians controlled the Frontier South. But with the War of 1812 and the Creek War of 1813-1814, the British and the Indians challenged our young country for control. The end of the War of 1812, and the Treaty of Fort Jackson in August of 1814, opened up 20 million acres of Indian lands to American settlers and the birth of Alabama. adults - $8; students - $7. For info, call (334) 567-3002 or visit www.fttoulousejackson.org/. frontierdays/.

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Calendar/Support Groups Thursday, November 6

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Thursday at Montessori at Hampstead. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@ outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information. Theatre AUM Presents Galileo Through November 16 By Bertolt Brecht. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. MondaySaturday and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $10 for the general public and $5 for seniors, non-AUM students and military. AUM faculty, staff and students admitted free of charge. No late seating. Children younger than age 6 not admitted. For reservations, contact Katie Pearson at 2443632 or kpearso2@aum.edu.

Friday, November 7

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held one Friday a month at Glynwood Childcare Ministries in Prattville. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request more info. Tallassee Armory Living History Spend time at our 1860s living history demonstrations including a spinning wheel, medical tools, weapons, cavalry with live horses, singing, dancing, and of course cannons! This event will be held at 19359 Rifle Range Road in Tallassee. Cost is $5 per student, and chaperones, teachers and bus drivers are free. Available slots are at 8:30 & 11 a.m. Allow at least two hours for the tour. For more info, call (334) 391-4017 or visit www.tallaseechamber.com. Charis Crafters Craft Show -- Also November 8 Wetumpka Civic Center. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Wide variety of handmade and crafted items and homemade delights will be available for purchase. For more info, visit us on Facebook. The Montgomery Chorale Presents “My Soul’s Delight: Songs of Life and Hope” -- also November 9 Wilson Auditorium, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Friday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Highlighting 20th century American composers and arrangers in a wide variety of styles. A reception will follow.

Saturday, November 8

Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/event s/1374454692792666/?source=1. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic 10 a.m. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “Science Lab.” Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. Museum Of Alabama Offers Free, Themed Tours On Second Saturdays 1 p.m. Led by expert staff members, these tours will focus on a wide variety of Alabama history topics. This is a unique opportunity for visitors to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of Alabama’s story through the museum’s Smithsonian-quality exhibitions. November 8 is “Alabama & World War I,” presented by Graham Neeley, Collections Curator. This Veteran’s Day weekend, explore Alabama’s participation in WWI, 100 years after the start of the conflict. No pre-registration for tours is required. The Museum of Alabama is located at the Alabama Department of Archives and History in downtown Montgomery, across the street from the State Capitol. The Archives and the Museum are open Monday-Saturday, 8:30-4:30. Admission is always free. For more info, call 242-4364 or visit www. museum.alabama.gov.

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

Wacky Socks 5K/10K and Fun Run Races begin at 8 a.m. at 3648 Park Circle in Millbrook. Race fees are $30 for 5K, $30 for 10K and $15 for Fun Run, plus $2.50 sign-up fee for each. Participants should wear wacky socks and join the Alabama Sox Baseball Organization to spport the Miracle League. Prizes will be presented and there will be an after-party. For more info, e-mail dstevens@sccdoc.com. Saturday Jam Sessions at Old Alabama Town Also November 22 Pick and grin at Saturday Jam Sessions in the Rose House at Old Alabama Town. Bring your acoustic instruments and have fun. 9 a.m.-noon. For more information, call 334-2404500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com. Alabama River Region Arts Centre’s Christmas Faire -- Thursdays through Sundays through December 21 Faire kicks off today with a reception noon-2 p.m. After that, the faire will be open Thursdays through Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. showcasing fine art, handmade jewelry, pottery, quilts and crafts of all kinds made by local artisans. For info, visit www.arrac.org. The center is located at the corner of Alabama and Tallassee streets in downtown Wetumpka.

November 2014 Thursday, November 13

Family Movie Night 4-6 p.m. Wear your PJ’s, bring your favorite blanket and/ or lawn chair, and enjoy a free movie and snacks under the “clouds” in the Frazer UMC Atrium. Free event. No childcare provided; all children must be accompanied by an adult. Call (334) 495-6335 or visit www.frazerumc.org for more info. Veteran’s Day Week at the Montgomery Zoo Through November 15 Join the Montgomery Zoo in thanking the proud men and women of the armed forces. During Veteran’s Day Week, all veterans, active duty military personnel and their dependents receive a 50% DISCOUNT on regular admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Participants must provide a valid military identification to receive discount. Visit www. montgomeryzoo.com or call (334) 240-4900.

The Capitol Sounds Concert Band Performs Sounds Of Autumn City Hall Auditorium. 7 p.m. Conductor is John Jackson, featuring soloists Dr. Bryan Reeves on cornet and Tyrone Hayes on baritone. This is a FREE concert, but donations are always welcome! Great FAMILY Entertainment! aMAzing Mornings at Montgomery Academy 8:15-9:00 a.m. Scientific and story time. Rising Kindergarteners (4 and 5 year olds) can visit Montogmery Academy for a free morning of fun in a safe and nurturing environment. Children and their parents will have an opportunity to become familiar with MA and the great foundation our Lower School offers students. Parents are encouraged to RSVP to admissions@montgomeryacademy. org or by calling Susannah Cleveland at 272-8210. Wetumpka Pops Concert Wetumpka Civic Center at 7 p.m. Free admission. Capri Classics Presents This is Spinal Tap 7:30 p.m. Rock music mockumentary about a oncefamous, now almost forgotten British heavy metal band returning to the United States after 17 years for a concert tour. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org. In the Arts: A Professional Event for Teens, Cohosted by the Muses and BTW 6:30-8 p.m. at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. In partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet High, professionals from community arts organizations and businesses will explain their craft or trade and answer questions about their education and career paths. Each presenter has a station in the Rotunda; teens and family members can visit as many as they like. For more info about this or other teen events at the Museum, contact Alice Novak at anovak@mmfa.org or 240-4362. The Millbrook Community Players Present The Seven Little Foys -- Through November 16 Based on actual events, The Seven Little Foys tells the story of entertainer Eddie Foy, who took his seven high-spirited kids into vaudeville with him. Touring the country after the death of his wife, Eddie Foy and his kids learned the real meaning of family. For tickets or more information, visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317.

Tuesday, November 11

Friday, November 14

Sunday, November 9

Montgomery River Region Veterans Day Parade 11 a.m. Monroe Street proceeding down Monroe Street. Following the parade, the Capitol Sounds Band will perform a Veterans Day Concert inside the City Hall Auditorium beginning at noon. Rain or shine. Call (334) 242-5102. VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead community. Look for a big red barn! For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth.org or visit www. facebook.com/VegOutMontgomery.

Wednesday, November 12

Sesame Street “Make a New Friend” 10:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. No matter where you’re from or where you’ve been, everyone is special – so join in! Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby, and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street. Together, they explore the universal fun of friendship and celebrate cultural similarities, from singing and dancing, to sharing cookies! Join the fun and make a memory with your friends and family! Tickets begin at $17. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100 for tickets. Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. This month’s topic is Holiday Deocrating with Natural Materials. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more information, call the ACES office at 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/ counties/Elmore/.

Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas Through November 15 Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Concert Hall. 7 p.m. performance Nov. 14 and 1 p.m. Nov. 15. For tickets or more info, visit www.bjcc.org or call (205) 458-8400. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also November 28 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 meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho. com.

Saturday, November 15

GO Firefly Night Run **NEW** 4 p.m. Alabama Nature Center/Lanark Pavilion, Millbrook. Are you ready for a cool, new run at the ANC? Runners and walkers can experience the trails at night. Feel free to make yourself glow as bright as you can, and venture through the trails. Come glow with us at the Alabama Nature Center’s inaugural Firefly 5K Evening Trail Run! Join your running buddies on the mulched and boardwalk paths

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for a sunset 5K! All proceeds benefit the ANC’s conservation education programs. Enjoy the post-race after party with refreshments, music and an awards ceremony. Active registration will close on November 12, but you can register onsite on the day of or by calling the Alabama Nature Center office at (334) 285-4550. T-shirts are guaranteed to those who register before November 3, but extras will be purchased. Arrive early for packet pickup to make sure you get yours! Fees: $25 preregistered by November 12; $30 day of. Register online @ active.com. Prattville’s Gigantic Flea Market 6 a.m.-noon. Prattville Doster Center.

Sunday, November 16

Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to this FREE fun event, and enjoy a jazz combo, art activities in the studios, and wonderful art work in the galleries! This month’s projects are in connection with the exhibition “Manifest Destiny.” Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4365 for more info.

Tuesday, November 18

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Quatuor Ebene Concert 7:30 p.m. Wilson Auditorium of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA). Join the Montgomery Chamber Music Organization for this special concert featuring a creative ensemble of four French musicians. There will be a reception following the concert. Single tickets at the door for just one concert are $30 for adults and $10 for students, if available. Or ticket packages may be purchased for the entire Montgomery Chamber Concert Series - $100 per adult for the (4 concerts) or $40 per student concert series. To purchase tickets, or for more info, call (334) 277-3505 or visit www.montgomerychambermusic.org/concerts.html.

Wednesday, November 19

The Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. The speaker this month will be from a local antique store and she will speak about holiday table decorations. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, November 17, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com. Wetumpka Tea Party Hosts Explanation Of ‘Convention Of States’ 6:30 p.m., in the cafeteria area of the Elmore County Hospital at 500 Hospital Drive in Wetumpka. Mark Meckler, “one of the nation’s most effective grassroots activists,” will be the special guest. After he co-founded and was the national coordinator of the Tea Party Patriots, Meckler founded Citizens for Self-Governance to revolutionize American government and is the leader of the Convention of States Project. He appears regularly on MSNBC, ABC, NBC and Fox News. For more information about the Wetumpka Tea Party, visit www.wetumpkateaparty.com/.

Thursday, November 20

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “The Alabama National Forest: 1914-1936,” presented by Bob Pasquill. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. ARTtalk at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Get an up-close look at artists, their work and the creative process in this unique program, designed for area artists as well as those interested in art. Artists bring a work of art to the Museum, show it to other artists and have friendly feedback about their work. Charge is $5 for Museum or Art Guild Members, $10 for non-members. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333 for more info.

Friday, November 21

Artist Market and Preview Party at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also November 22 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, in the Lowder Gallery, Rotunda, and Durr-Fillauer Gallery. Artist Market consists of local and regional artists who are represented in the Museum Store. There will be painters, potters, glass artists, jewelers, mixed media artists, a stone carver, and many more. Friday evening’s Artist Market and Preview Party event includes hors d’oeurves and a cash bar. Patrons will have the opportunity to meet and shop with approximately 30 artists on Friday night and Saturday. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333.

Saturday, November 22

Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, Cupcakes by Tish will now host Cupcake Decorating Workshops. Classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com.

Sunday, November 23

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents A Christmas Carol -- Through December 24 Written by Charles Dickens; adapted by Geoffrey Sherman. An ASF tradition begins with the return of this holiday hit featuring Charles Dickens himself who, with sleight of hand and sense of humor, brings his magical story to life. When miserly Ebenezer Scrooge receives an unwanted visit from the ghost of his former business partner, an overnight jour-

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Calendar/Support Groups

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker 7 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. 40 starstudded dancers perform Olympic-worthy leaps in Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. It’s an annual holiday event for families with magical toys, falling snow, growing Christmas trees, and astounding ballet moves. Moscow Ballet dancers are world- class and a delight to experience. Celebrate Russian ballet and the beauty of the holidays in Moscow Ballet’s grand production of the Great Russian Nutcracker! Visit www.nutcracker.com or www.mpaconline. org or call 481-5100 for tickets.

at age 30 in a plane crash in 1963. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in l961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death. The musical play includes many of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Sweet Dreams” and “Walking After Midnight”…27 songs in all. Rated PG. Tickets may be obtained by calling (334) 738-8687 or visiting www.reddoortheatre.org. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents I Love a Piano Through December 6; 11-13; 16; and 18-20 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $26.50 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $21.50. Reservations must be paid in advance. To make reservations or for more information, call 877-840-0457 or visit http://www.ticketforce.com/.

Tuesday, December 2

Friday, December 5

ney of epic proportions begins. With a gorgeous set, period costumes, beautifully sung carols and a spectacular new ending, you and your family will be left totally enthralled! Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353 for tickets.

Tuesday, November 25

Steven Curtis Chapman at the MPAC 7 p.m. Baptist Health Foundation welcomes Chapman to headline the 10th anniversary of “A Montgomery Family Christmas” at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. This fun, family-oriented Christmas event benefits Baptist Hospice. Tickets begin at $27. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100.

Thursday, December 4

Third Day at the MPAC 7 p.m. Tickets begin at $25. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100. Red Door Theatre Presents Always....Patsy Cline Through December 7; 12 and 13 Downtown Union Springs. Written and originally directed by Ted Swindley and filled with the wonderful music of Patsy Cline, is the real life story of her friendship with Houston housewife Louise Seger. Always…Patsy Cline is more than a tribute to the legendary country singer who died tragically

Montgomery Parents I November 2014

Father-Daughter Diamond Princess Ball $100 per couple. Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500. Progressive Nativity, Luminary Night & Downtown Open House Downtown Wetumpka. 6:30-8 p.m. For more information, contact Tiffany at 567-1384. Capri Classics Presents It’s a Wonderful Life 7:30 p.m. Frank Capra’s classic featuring James Stewart. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org.

Monday, December 8

Millbrook Community Players Present The Nutcracker and the Mouse King -- Thru December 12 Adapted by Joe Cosentino. Performances are December 8, 9, 11 & 12 at 8:30 and 10 a.m. and Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317.

November 2014 Wetumpka Depot Presents Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells -- Through December 12 Based on the children’s book written by Barbara Park; directed by Kristy Meanor. Daytime performances for school groups and parents with homeschooled children or preschoolers. Tickets are available by calling the box office at (334) 868-1440. For more info, also visit www. wetumpkadepot.com.

Thursday, December 11

Wetumpka Depot Presents Eggnog and Fruitcake: A Tacky Christmas Sweater Extravaganza Also December 12, 14 and 18 7:30 performances except for 2 p.m. December 14. Funfilled cabaret written and directed by Tom Salter. For more info and tickets, visit www.wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440. Cloverdale Playhouse Presents It’s a Wonderful Life: The Radio Play -- Through December 21 Adapted by Joe Landry from the screenplay by Frank Capra, Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, and Johanna Sperling. Directed by Greg Thornton. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday. Call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org to get tickets. aMAzing Mornings at Montgomery Academy 8:15-9:00 a.m. Artstanding Art and story time Rising Kindergarteners (4 and 5 year olds) can visit Montogmery Academy for a free morning of fun in a safe and nurturing environment. Children and their parents will have an opportunity to become familiar with MA and the great foundation our Lower School offers students. Parents are encouraged to RSVP to admissions@ montgomeryacademy.org or by calling Susannah Cleveland at 272-8210.

Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Business Card Directory

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Business Card Directory

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Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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

First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 55

Montgomery Women’s Health, Inside Back

First UMC, Montgomery, 32

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 85

First UMC, Prattville, 67

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 25

4D Mommies, 18

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 33

New Park, 4

Adventure Sports II, 14

Frazer UMC, 13

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 22

Alabama Christian Academy, 29

Greengate School, 28

Pioneer Museum of Alabama, 48

Alabama Dept. of Health, Inside Front

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, 69

Prattville Wesleyan Preschool, 85

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 27

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 26

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Alcyone Gunn, 86

Hooper Academy, 40

Pump It Up Party, 48

Alice Gwin Tutoring, 86

Huntington Learning Center, 21

R.O.C.K. Campaign,47

ASKIN/Synergy House, 86

It Works, 8

Ridge Church, 46

AUM Continuing Education, 50

Jaclyn’s Salon and Spa, 28

Riverview Camp for Girls, 44

Baptist Health, 71

Jenny Alexander, MD, 86

Saint James School, 1

Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 38

Johnson Martial Arts/Karate, 34

Saint James UMC, 59

Bradford Health Services, 75

KLynn Ice Skating School, 51

Smiles Galore Parties, 53

Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 52

Kingry Orthodontics, 69

Soiree Mobile Spa for Girls, 84

Chapman Orthodontics, 23

Kreative Moments, 85

Spacewalk of Montgomery, 85

CHARMS, Inc., 86

Kumon, 3

Spacewalker, The, 35

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 73

Learning Tree Child Care, 83

Spotless Cleaning Services, 66

Christmas on the Coosa, 63

Legacy Early Learning Center, 20

Stone’s Antique & FleaMall, 18

Dancewear, Etc., 85

Little Explorer’s Learning Center, 43

Success Unlimited Academy, 31

Dentistry for Children, 49

Lori Mercer Photography, 38

Sugar N Spice Daycare, 74

Diamond Princess Ball, 65

Macon East Academy, 9

Sylvan Learning Center, 34

Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 7

Mathnasium, 22

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 53

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 39

Melodic Vibes, LLC, 85

The Big Green Bus, 33

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 84

Miller Beef and Cattle, 49

The Dollhouse Toy Store, 57

E & S Hobbies, 86

Montessori @ Hampstead, 37

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

East Memorial Baptist Church, 64

Montessori @ Mulberry, 23

Tiger Park Taekwondo, 85

Eastdale Mall, 2

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 19

Trinity Presbyterian School, 15

Easter Seals Central Alabama, 41

Montgomery Gem & Mineral Show, 21

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 41

Eastwood Christian School, 17

Montgomery Humane Society, 11

Vaughn Road Preschool, 61

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 39

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 74

Virtual Assistant Services, 85

Embellish, 14

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Vishnu Dental, 43

Evangel Christian Academy, 35

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WeeOnes Daycare and Preschool, 40

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The Book of Life

Alexander and the

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated The Book of Life PG for mild action, rude humor, some thematic elements and brief scary images. Manolo (voice of Diego Luna) is a young man torn between a desire to please his father and a burning need to chart his own course. He is a Sanchez, and in his small Mexican town the family is known for their bull fighting skills. Manolo is no slouch in the bullring, as he dances and maneuvers deftly around the animal. However when the moment arrives when he should kill the bovine, he refuses, feeling there is no need to take its life. His father and the rest of the townsfolk view his lack of aggression as a weakness. Making matters worse, Manolo’s “big dream” isn’t to be a bullfighter, but to be a musician. He’d much rather be making music on his guitar -- a precious gift from his childhood sweetheart Maria (voice of Zoe Saldana). Maria has been away in Spain for the past few years. Her return to the village has reignited the passions within both Manolo and another of her grade school chums, Joaquin (voice of Channing Tatum). The latter is a decorated war hero. Unfortunately their affections have left the señorita tired of the increasing jealously that taints their friendship. Even more troubling is Maria’s father. He wants his daughter to accept Joaquin’s hand in marriage because the commitment will ensure the local golden boy will stay and protect the community from a band of marauders. But, of course, this movie isn’t about doing what your father demands of you. Instead it’s about finding your own way through life. Yet unlike so many other scripts aimed at kids, this title manages to balance respect for parents and family heritage with the need to reach for your own dreams. Just don’t expect this portrayal of the Day of the Dead holiday to follow a typical storyline. Instead it veers into the afterlife where literally colorful ancestors work together to try and save mortality from making a huge mistake. Considering the number of characters and plotlines this production juggles within its hour-and-a-half of runtime, it manages to keep audiences engaged and chuckling. The tone of this animation is far more focused on the positive attributes of honoring those who have passed, than on ghoulish imagery. Obviously, if you feel uncomfortable with depictions of the dead (many of whom are played here as ghost-like beings in the afterlife), then this title might be one to avoid. If that isn’t an issue, The Book of Life’s colorful imagery and marionette-style animation may be a refreshing celebration of family, as well as a fun look at Mexican traditions. It imparts messages about selflessness as the greatest attribute of a hero, and offers a great example of forgiveness that allows two enemies to work together.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: B+ Language: B Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day PG for rude humor including some reckless behavior and language. We’ve all had bad days, but some days go beyond bad. After Alexander Cooper (Ed Oxenbould) has a day that includes setting his school science lab on fire, he comes home to his family for some solace. Instead he sits through dinner listening to his parents and siblings describe all the great things that happened to them since breakfast. Like the old saying about salt in a wound, Alexander sadly ponders the next day, which happens to be his birthday. Not able to sleep, he makes himself a birthday sundae and blows the candle out with a wish that the others in his family could have a bad day too so they can understand what he’s going through. The next morning Alexander awakens to a family that has slept past the alarm. His unemployed Dad (Steve Carell) is worried about a job interview and his mother (Jennifer Garner) is anxious about being late for her work where she is in charge of a celebrity book reading. Meanwhile his sister Emily (Kerris Dorsey), who is set to perform the starring role in her school musical, has woken up with a cold. And his older brother Anthony (Dylan Minnette) is about to discover a few reasons why his up-coming night at the junior prom will be less than perfect. The events that occur during their cursed day are realistic enough that you shudder to think how it could happen to you. Perhaps not all of them in one day, but they are certainly plausible. And that makes the humor in this film very relatable for parents, while the kids in the crowd will enjoy the slapstick silliness. Even more impressive are the parents. They are not the dolts we have come to expect in other films in this genre. Instead they are intelligent, hardworking and caring. They desperately want to do whatever they can to turn a difficult situation into something better for their three oldest kids who all have important events on the calendar. The overall messages (self sacrifice and caring for one another) allow Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day to rise about its momentary misgivings. It is one of the few live-action family films in recent memory that allows parents and kids to laugh together and leave the theater feeling like they’ve had a good day.

Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

What Parents need to know...

Violence: A man’s shirt catches on fire in a restaurant: he manages to extinguish the flames without injury. A student’s notebook catches fire in a science lab, which in turn starts a large poster in the classroom on fire. (A teacher extinguishes the fire.) A teen boy loses control of a vehicle during a driving exam resulting in major damage to the vehicle and some damage to public property. Sexual Content: A mother accidentally walks in on her son in the bathroom, and later she comments that her son should not be alarmed because she has seen every penis in the family. Images of bikini-clad women with a boy’s face inserted over the original face are seen on a cell phone screen. Three men hired to perform at a child’s birthday party turn out to be strippers -- after the parents reminding them it’s a PG party, they adjust their act and no clothing is removed. Language: The terms “boobs” and “butt-crack” are heard. Alcohol / Drug Use: A teen girl with a bad cold drinks a large quantity of cough syrup in a desperate attempt to be able to perform in a school play. She becomes inebriated and then vomits on two occasions. Social drinking is seen in a restaurant.

What Parents need to know...

Violence: References are made to death in a fantasy context. Frequent mild peril and threat to main characters, with some frightening detail. Infrequent portrayals of hand-to-hand and weapons violence in a slapstick context. One direct punch to the head is seen on screen. Bullfights are portrayed, but we do not see the bull being stabbed or killed. School-aged kids make derogatory age-related comments toward an elderly man. Sexual Content: A woman uses her femininity to manipulate a man. Two boys are obviously fond of the same girl. Language: Some name-calling and a vague scatological reference are included. Alcohol / Drug Use: A group of secondary characters appear inebriated and one makes a joke about visiting four bars. Montgomery Parents I November 2014

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