Montgomery Parents November 2015 by KeepSharing

Vaccine is the best method to prevent influenza (flu), pneumococcal disease (pneu), and reduce complications. FLU VACCINE

PNEU VACCINE

• Recommended for 6 months of age and older

• Recommended for 2 months to 5 years and 65 years and older

• Available types include: nasal mist, high-dose, under the skin, egg-free, or 3-4 strains

• Two vaccines protect against 13 and 23 strains of pneumonia

• Vaccine can be given from September - March each year

• Risk groups and all adults 65 years should receive both vaccines

For more information, contact your healthcare provider, county health department, or community vaccinators.

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G REAT DAYat ! Mark Your Calendars! SA IN T JA M E S SCHOOL IN VITE S PROSPECTI VE STU DEN TS A ND PA R EN TS TO VISIT STJ IN NOVEMBER

Welcome Wednesdays AT STJ November is get to know us month! Please feel free to schedule an individual tour of Saint James with our Admissions department at any time. We would love to have you visit during the school day! In addition, we are inviting parents and children who are interested in Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten at STJ in Fall 2016 to our Welcome Wednesdays. The children will enjoy a classroom activity and play with new friends while the parents take a brief tour of our pre-school and kindergarten. 9:30am

Registration in the Admissions Office in Leu Elementary

9:40–10:00am

Enrichment Classroom Activity November 4–Science Lab Activities with Mrs. Parquette November 18–Technology Time with Mrs. Waggoner

10:00am

Students enjoy refreshments and arts & crafts with our STJ Student Ambassadors while the parents tour our Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten classes

Reservations are required. Please call Walton Skelley at 334.273.2992 or email admissions@stjweb.org three school days before the Wednesday you would like to attend.

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

334.273.2992

Building a Legacy of Leaders Since 1955 s t j w e b . o r g English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

Recognized by Apple as a distinguished school for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence.

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November2015 58

Columns

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

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Positive Discipline = Positive Behavior A token system for behavioral change in the difficult child.

Growing a Thankful Family

Ideas for growing grateful children in a want-more world.

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Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Help! My Baby Won’t Sleep One of the biggest worries with new parents is their newborn’s sleep habits, especially when the baby wakes frequently during the night. Hopefully this will give a few tips and relieve a little of that anxiety. It is most important that newborns sleep flat on their backs from day one. This may not make sense, but numerous studies from all over the world have shown that there is a significant reduction of the risk of Sudden Infant Death in babies who sleep on their backs. In addition, no soft objects such as pillows, blankets, stuffed toys, or bumper pads should be placed in the crib since these objects also lead to a higher risk of SIDS. Sleeping on the side or propped up is not recommended. Understanding normal sleep requirements of babies is also very important. New studies from the National Sleep Foundation now indicate that newborns up to three months need 14-17 hours of sleep a day, infants four to eleven months need 12-15 hours, and toddlers one to two years need 11-14 hours. Of course, newborns may sleep only 2-4 hours at a time since they will need frequent feedings. Breastfed babies may need to be fed every 2-3 hours since they digest breast milk so easily and formula fed babies fed every 3-4 hours since it takes longer to digest.

As babies get older, they will sleep for longer periods of time and more regular sleep cycles will begin to develop by 2-3 months. There are several techniques you can use to maximize developing regular sleep habits at about this age. -Be aware of cues that the baby is ready for sleep – rubbing eyes, heavy looking eyes, becoming very quiet, or sometimes a little more restless. -Establish a consistent and regular time for naps and especially bedtime. -Have a consistent bedtime routine – bathing, feeding, saying bedtime prayers, and quietly singing or reading. This is very important to help them feel calm and relaxed before being placed in bed. -Put the baby in the crib while he is drowsy but not completely asleep so he learns to go to sleep alone in his own bed. Do not rock them to sleep in your arms. They will get used to this and if they wake up during the night, they will cry for you to rock them to sleep again. -It is okay if there is some noise in the house as long as it is not extremely noisy or chaotic. Some people use a noise machine to provide background noise and help block out household noise. -The temperature of the room should be moderate – not too hot or too cold.

-Dress them about the way you would feel comfortable for the temperature of the room. -Generally, co-sleeping or sleeping in the same bed as the parents is not recommended. This could be dangerous in some circumstances and be difficult to break the habit when they get older. -Try to expose your baby to sunlight everyday as much as possible. This helps reinforce the normal body clock or circadian rhythm that establishes wake and sleep cycles. This can be done by going for a walk during the day or just opening the blinds in the baby’s room when he wakes up each morning. Babies will probably still wake up during the night, but by establishing routine sleep habits, they will be able to soothe themselves more easily and fall back to sleep on their own. By 6-9 months most babies will sleep through the night, however, some will be over a year old before they reach this milestone. All of this will take time. It will not happen in a day or two, but may take several days or one to two weeks. The main thing is to be very consistent with any and all caregivers maintaining the same routine every night. Be patient. Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys college sports with his wife Cathy who is an attorney.

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Being Thankful Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and sometimes it can be challenging to convince children that the holiday is really not all about food or football games. Sure there is turkey, stuffing, gravy, cranberries, and sweet potato pie — my favorite part of the meal— but greater still is the opportunity to teach our children about being thankful. The first Thanksgiving was a perfect example of how a committed group of people banded together, struggled to survive, and came through with an attitude of gratitude. More than 100 men, women and children traveled 66 days in a small ship across the Atlantic Ocean headed for what is now New York. Instead, the weather forced them to land in the area we now

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

know as Cape Cod. They worked diligently to build a community in a strange and often hostile new world. Gathering enough food and maintaining clothing and shelter were constant concerns that occupied most of their time, yet they still took the time to be thankful. Gratefulness, like any other valuable lesson, has to be taught. As adults, we can model gratitude for our children. When a child receives a gift, or something kind is done for them, it’s okay to prompt them to say “thank you.” Something as simple as saying “thank you for cleaning your room” and “please” also conveys to a child that thankfulness is important. Sometimes the more “things” we give a child the less often they are inclined to appreciate what they already have. This can be a difficult balance, especially during the holidays, but it’s important for children to experience the joy of giving to others, too. In our schools, students at all grade levels have several opportunities to be of service to the school and the community at large. You can ask your child’s counselor about

community service opportunities at your school that your child can get involved in. The more that children contribute around the house by doing everyday tasks, the more they appreciate their role and responsibility to the family. For older students, working part-time or being involved in school activities helps them feel the satisfaction of earning what they have and making valuable contributions to their school community. During this season of thanks, it is important that we as parents and educators inventory the things for which we are thankful, and then ensure that our children join us in counting these blessings. It might not seem natural to a child at first, but being thankful is a skill we can cultivate through practice. Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Robotics Team Competes at War Eagle Best

Councilman Helps Dalraida Student Council Dalraida Elementary Student Council members and Councilman-elect attorney Brantley Lyons are all new to their respective offices. Lyons came to help install the new members of the Dalraida Student Council in October, which coincidentally is when he took his seat on the Montgomery City Council. The new officers are: Kaleigh Everage, president; Isabel Dang, vice president; Councilman-elect Brantley Lyons; Michael “MJ” Jackson, secretary; JaShawn Cooper, treasurer; and Shelby Sword, sergeant-at-arms.

Nineteen Alabama Christian Academy students in fifth through twelfth grades participated in an intense six-week robotics program through Auburn University that ended with a competition. The students had to design and build a robot as well as demonstrate knowledge of the engineering design process, programming, produce CAD drawings, and exhibit knowledge of the game in an engineering notebook. The War Eagle BEST (boosting engineering, science and technology) competition was held on October 10 at Auburn University and was themed “Pay Dirt.” This is ACA’s first year having a robotics team as well as competing in its first robotics competition. The students finished eleventh out of 25 teams in the seeding matches. “It is such an honor to be the lead teacher and have the opportunity to work with this group of students over the past six weeks,” said Mrs. Simpson. “I am proud of their accomplishment in our first year at War Eagle BEST and look forward to continuing the program.”

Macon East Students Learn Fire Safety

Macon East Academy lower school students enjoyed a recent visit from the Pike Road Fire Department. They learned about fire safety and how to safely escape a fire in the simulator house. Students also enjoyed taking a turn sitting in the fire truck and trying on some of the firemen’s gear.

STJ Senior Jumps into 6th Place Nationally

Erika Aho, a Saint James School senior, traveled to Texas in September to compete in the American Eventing Championships. She was in a pool of more than 150 competitors and finished in 6th place, nationally, after several days of competition. In addition, Aho was honored with the Memorial Avery Dudasch Award for being the highest-placed pony ridden by an adult (age 17 and older). A plaque with her accomplishments will be on permanent display at the United States Eventing Association offices in Virginia. Aho is shown with her mother, Lorna, at the AEC competition in Texas. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academy Earns Speech & Debate Success at St. James Tournament

Baldwin Dancers Take Special Class

On October 1, Baldwinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Level Two and Level Three dancers were rewarded with an extraordinary Master Class in Contemporary dance technique taught by Allyne Gartrell, founder and director of the Atlanta Dance Connection. Contemporary dance is a melding of several dance techniques, namely classical ballet, modern, and jazz. Our Level One students were invited to observe the lesson.

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

Montgomery Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Speech & Debate Team recently competed in the Raymond B. Furlong Invitational at Saint James School. Twenty-five schools from five states competed. Montgomery Academy won first place in the Individual Events Team Sweepstakes. Individual winners were: Dramatic Interpretation: Madison Hall, 1st place; Mary Elizabeth Bullard, 9th place; Will Hamlett, 10th place. Program Oral Interpretation: Madison Hall, 1st place; Catherine Updegraff, 4th place. Humorous Interpretation: Catherine Updegraff, 2nd place. Informative Speaking: Gyungmin Kim, 1st place. Oral Interpretation: Lindsey Ferraro, 6th place. Impromptu Speaking: William Moore, 7th place; Talya Whyte, 8th place; Lindsey Ferraro, 10th place. Original Oratory: Will Hamlett, 7th place. Extemporaneous Speaking: James Torbert, 7th place. Congressional Debate: Ellen Park, 3rd place; John Wakefield, 4th place; Nathan Pohlman, 7th place. Public Forum Debate: Allen Millsap & Collin Darwish, 9th place. Lincoln Douglas Debate: Michael Butler, 3rd place; Pio Jung, 4th place.

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Brewbaker Intermediate Celebrates Spanish Heritage

Brewbaker Intermediate’s students celebrated Spanish Heritage Month on October 15. Students came dressed in their traditional clothing from their country of origin. This tradition is a national holiday celebrated from September 15 through October 15.

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Cornerstone Visits Hampstead Farms

At the conclusion of a unit study on plants, Mrs. Jordan Gaines’ first-grade class at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy visited the Hampstead Farms garden in downtown Montgomery. The students saw how plants are grown and harvested. They even enjoyed some of the produce from the garden. At Cornerstone, the elementary science program serves as an extension of the topic that the students are studying in history. The first-grade students are completing an extensive study on the days of creation.

ECA Students Support Breast Cancer Awareness

Evangel Christian Academy’s student body recently participated in “Breast Cancer Awareness Month.” 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.

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Montgomery County Schools

Holy Cross Teacher Assigns Animal Habitat Project

A recent assignment in Kathy Black’s class at Holy Cross Episcopal School resulted in excitement and enthusiasm for learning. The class completed an animal habitat project with their families. The students chose an animal and spent several days’ of homework time learning about it and building a habitat in which the animal was camouflaged. Black gave the class a guide where they recorded all the different things they learned as they were discovering new facts about their animals. Students presented their projects to the class and then placed them on display outside their classroom so that others could share in their learning.

Lee Cheerleaders Host Mini Camp

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The Lee High School varsity cheerleaders hosted their first “Mini Cheerleaders Camp” for local girls ages 4-10 as part of the squad’s mentoring project. The girls participated in a two-day camp which culminated in their debut at the Lee H.S. vs. Northview H.S. football game September 26 at Cramton Bowl. The mini cheerleaders cheered on the sideline and performed two chants during halftime. They were rewarded with a camp T-shirt, hair bows and specially made goodie bags. The “Mini Cheerleaders Camp” is under the directorship of Coach Tasha Morris and is part of the school’s efforts to promote community service among students.

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Cornerstone Hosts Grandparents’ Day

Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s grammar school students welcomed some very special guests to the school…the grandparents of our students! On October 23, the grandparents were treated to a special presentation of recitations and songs that the students have learned so far in the school year. Following the presentation, grandparents were invited to tour the classrooms and see samples of their student’s work. At the end of the morning, the grandparents enjoyed refreshments with their grandchildren.

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Carver Celebrates World School Milk Day

The Montgomery Chapter of Continentals celebrated World Milk Day at Carver Elementary. World School Milk Day (WSMD), celebrated annually on the last Wednesday of September, is a day full of activities that highlight the health benefits and value of school milk programs. WSMD is an engaging way to teach students about the importance of drinking milk as part of a healthy, balanced diet with an emphasis on milk as an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that kids need to stay alert and ready to learn.

Floyd Volleyball Team Earns Champ Title

The Floyd Middle Magnet School volleyball team finished the regular season undefeated and earned the title of 2015-2016 Season Champions. 21

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Montgomery County Schools

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Academy Announces New Head of School

The Montgomery Academy Board of Trustees announces the unanimous confirmation of James L. Spencer IV as the new Head of School, effective June 1, 2016. Spencer will be the eighth Head of School at The Montgomery Academy. His appointment was the result of a nationwide search that took into consideration critical input from The Montgomery Academy school community including parents, teachers, students, alumni and administration. Spencer is currently the Director of Studies at The Hill School in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in 1984. He received his bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and Mathematics at Vanderbilt University (magna cum laude) in 1989. He received his master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Vanderbilt in the same year. Jay served for the next 20 years in the U.S. Navy as a submarine officer. His final tour was in command of the operational arm of the Navy’s submarine rescue forces as Commanding Officer of Deep Submergence Unit in San Diego, CA. Spencer grew up in Greenwood, Mississippi, and met his wife, Dr. Kristin Spencer, while at Vanderbilt. They are the parents of four children, Jackie, a junior at Elon University; Colin, a sophomore at Purdue University; Matt, a tenth- grader at The Hill School and David, a fifth-grader. “I am honored to be called to serve such a fine institution as Head of School,” stated Mr. Spencer. “My family and I are excited to be making this move. I was impressed at how genuine and dedicated everyone was during my brief time on campus, and I look forward to developing strong and lasting relationships over the coming years.” Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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Montgomery Public Schools Central Office Staff Hold ‘Pink Out Day’

Montgomery Public Schools Superintendent Margaret Allen and Central Office staff observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month with its annual “Pink Out Day.” Staff in the Central Office wore pink to honor MPS breast cancer survivors and those still in the fight. The activity was one of several held in schools and district departments throughout the month of October.

Art Studio Allows Creativity at SUA

Nathan Faulk, a junior at Success Unlimited Academy, recently entered the Art Studio Room with a mission to create a moving, free-standing and three-dimensional paper sculpture. With a few readily available supplies, coupled with a vivid imagination, the seemingly impossible task (to most) became a reality. Using geometry, Faulk cut paper into smaller pieces and folded them to create both the blades as well as the octagon- shaped center. Next, he created a base that could not only hold the weight of the center piece, but also allow that part to move. Lastly, he combined both individual parts to create the completed paper structure. No plans were drawn. No blueprints were made. This creation was solely formed in the mind of the eleventh-grader. Faulk was presented with a challenge and solved that challenge by using his creativity.

Cornerstone Holds Annual Fall Fellowship

The upper school students at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy recently enjoyed an evening of fellowship at their annual fall bonfire. This year the event was hosted by Anita and Ricky Forks, whose daughter Elizabeth is a senior at Cornerstone. In addition to dinner and the bonfire, the students played games and enjoyed a relaxed time of fellowship with one another. The upper school students at Cornerstone are divided into houses. These groups consist of students from all grade levels led by the older students in the community. The house groups meet every morning for a time of Bible study and prayer. In addition, a friendly competition is carried on in the house groups. The Bible study, competition and fellowship allows Cornerstone to create a unique learning environment. 22

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Eastwood Cross-Country Teams Win State Championships

The Eastwood Christian School Girls’ and Boys’ varsity cross-country teams, led by senior captains Jackson South and Anna Kometer, won the Alabama Independent School Association state championships on October 15 at Gateway Park. Each team placed three runners in the top ten. For the boys’ race, junior JanMikael Johnson was the first-place winner, Mikey Kometer was ninth place and Elliot Mangrum was tenth. For the girls’ race, junior Erin Powe came in second, Captain Anna Kometer was fourth and Josie Powe finished fifth. This is the fourth year in a row that ECS Boys’ varsity earned the AISA state title.

Macon East Students Chosen for Duke TIP

The following Macon East Academy seventh-grade students were selected to participate in the Duke University Talent Identification Program: Will Desmarais, Barrett Hammond, Jordan Hicks, Jonathan Mathis, Tanner Moore, Emily Nickles, Justin Reynolds and Max Taylor. Selection as a Duke TIP honoree is based on student accomplishment in the 95th percentile on national standardized testing completed in spring of the sixthgrade year. Since 1980, more than 2.5 million high ability students have participated in Duke TIP’s talent searches. As part of the talent search enrollment, Duke TIP registers seventh-graders to take either the ACT or SAT as an above-level test. This allows students to have greater insight into their abilities and gives them the opportunity to preview a college entrance exam.

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Set in a beautiful community just off Taylor Road in Montgomery, Montessori School at Hampstead provides a handson, tailor-made approach to education that nourishes a student’s curiosity inside and outside the classroom. Our students are able to work at their own pace and receive the time and attention they need to excel. We offer programs not found at other schools such as farm-based and international curricula along with fundamentals, French, Art, and P.E. We welcome students age 18-months to 9th grade.

334-356-1969 MSHMontgomery.org 23

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Students Win Creative Writing Contest

ASU Professor Brings Music to HIPPY

Since the beginning of the school year, Dr. Michael Zelenak, Ph.D NBCT, Assistant Professor of Music at Alabama State University, has been bringing music to children in Montgomery Public Schools’ Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Students Program (HIPPY) every Thursday afternoon. Dr. “Z,” as he is affectionately called, teaches three- and four-year-olds how to sing, clap, dance and play handheld instruments along with their parents. He helps them explore different genres of music and identify sounds. The music program is funded through a donation from the Truman Hobbs Jr. Foundation.

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

Alabama Christian began a Creative Writing/Journalism course last year, and it is already paying off for students. In the spring, each student in the school’s first creative writing course entered a short story in the F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum’s 24th Annual Literary Contest. Two ACA students won in the High School Division. Lauren Hughes (2015 graduate) won first place and Amberly Ashcraft (2016 graduate candidate) won second place out of 44 entries. Both girls received a framed certificate and a monetary award for their short stories. Hughes’s short story, “The Long Shift,” received $250 as the first-place winner. Ashcraft’s short story, “Ambition,” received $100 as the secondplace winner. These short stories will be featured on the F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum’s website. From left are Amberley Ashcraft; Rhea Wynn, English Teacher at ACA; and Lauren Hughes.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com

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Montgomery Academy Girls’ Soccer Team Earns NSCAA Team Academic Award

The Montgomery Academy girls’ soccer team was recognized by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) with the 2014-15 High School Team Academic Award. The NSCAA annually recognizes high school soccer programs that have excelled in the classroom, in addition to their performance on the field. The MA girls’ soccer team was one of 398 teams (150 boys, 248 girls) nationwide recognized for exemplary performance in the classroom as a team during the 2014-15 academic year. To qualify for this award, the team must have a minimum grade-point average of 3.25 for the entire academic year. MA’s state championship team GPA was 3.65. The National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) administers an extensive high school awards and recognition program which includes Coach of the Year, AllAmerica, longterm service, and special recognition awards designed to recognize excellence in soccer, academics, and service to the game. In all, nearly 11,000 awards are presented by the NSCAA each year for high school, college and youth soccer programs. These awards and recognition are available only to NSCAA member coaches and their players.

MEA’s Brantley Sets Volleyball Records

Senior volleyball standout Lexi Brantley has played varsity volleyball at Macon East since 7th grade and has helped lead the team to four state championships since 2011. This year the Lady Knights continue on a winning streak with an undefeated season headed into the playoffs. In 2015, Brantley has achieved two major milestones racking up 2,000 career assists and 500 aces. She was honored by her coaches, teammates, and the student body for these accomplishments at a recent pep rally. Brantley was also nominated as the Alabama high school volleyball player of the week. She will continue her volleyball career at the collegiate level at Belhaven University in Jackson, Miss.

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Montgomery County Schools

Success Unlimited Welcomes New Coaches

Saint James Students AMP’d at Auburn

Six Saint James School eighth-graders traveled to Auburn University September 19 to compete in the Auburn Mathematical Puzzle Challenge. The team of Saint James middle schoolers was named one of the top 3 teams after two challenge sessions. They competed in the final challenge question in front of their 20 competitors and received first place! STJ math teacher Lauren Henry traveled with her students Sam Festoso, Jack Branham, Austin McIlwain, Junseo Hwang, Gabe Robbins, and Nayoon Kang.

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

Success Unlimited Academy announces the hiring of Keegan Sanders as the men’s Head Basketball Coach. Having played and coached at the state level championship at area schools, Coach Sanders brings a wealth of experience to the program. “This year’s team has a lot of new faces as we graduated eight out of the 12 players last year,” said Jack Moody, Athletic Director. “Coach Sanders will have a great opportunity to put his stamp on this team quickly. He is a firm believer in fundamentals and playing inside out, so the change of pace in the program will be great for us as we continue to build this program.” Other changes have been made to the athletic staff for the 2015-2016 season. Pat DeProspo will head up the girls’ basketball programs this year and Jacqui Virgil will lead the girls’ volleyball program. Both bring experience to their respective teams, having played and coached at the collegiate level in their careers. DeProspo has most recently been involved in coaching girls’ AAU teams over the last few years. “He has won championships at this level and I know he is the right man to lead this program,” said Moody.

Keegan Sanders

Pat DeProspo

Jacqui Virgil

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Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate Earns National Recognition

The National Speech & Debate Association, the honor society for middle and high school speech and debate, has named its Top 100 schools in the nation for the 2014-2015 academic year. The Montgomery Academy ranked 72 out of more than 3,200 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. “These students and coaches have demonstrated outstanding participation and achievement in speech and debate activities,” stated Executive Director J. Scott Wunn. “We are pleased to honor them for their hard work and dedication, and wish them continued success in the coming season.” Recipient schools are published in Rostrum, the national magazine of high school speech and debate.

Trinity Celebrates Homecoming 2015

At this year’s Homecoming festivities at Trinity Presbyterian School, the annual alumni tent was filled with memories as several alumni classes returned to the school to celebrate their reunions, including the classes of 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, and 2010. As they watched the Trinity Wildcats defeat Catholic 38-21, they feasted on mouth-watering appetizers. Several alumni could be heard under the alumni tent during the evening recalling special memories from their Trinity school days. Trinity’s 2015 homecoming court was also recognized during halftime: 2015 Homecoming Queen Josey Aughtman, senior attendants Katherine Rowell and Claire Wood, junior attendant Emma Ellis, sophomore attendant Mary Emily Taylor, freshman attendant Mary Ann Pittman, eighth-grade attendany Ivy Bopp and seventhgrade attendant Anna Worth Craven.

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Eastwood Kindergartners Honor Dads with Donuts “D” is for Donuts! Eastwood Christian School kindergarten students recently celebrated Donuts with Dads.

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Bear Named National Blue Ribbon School

Bear Exploration Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology has been named a National Blue Ribbon School for 2015, one of only 285 public schools in the nation chosen for the distinction this year. Bear is one of five Alabama schools to receive the honor. The National Blue Ribbon Schools program recognizes schools that have shown academic excellence or have made progress in closing achievement gaps. Bear was chosen as an Exemplary High Performing School, which means it was one of the state’s highest performing schools based on state and national assessments. Bear is a magnet school that places an emphasis on hands-on activities and project-based learning. Learning tools available to Bear students include a science lab, visual arts lessons and physical education. There is an outdoor classroom with a teaching pavilion, a weather station, a chicken coop, a butterfly house, a beehive and gardens. All students take part in the Aerospace Connections in Education programs, which encourages students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Bear also offers summer camps, including Camp Invention and Beekeeping Camp. The U.S. Department of Education will honor the 285 public and 50 private schools chosen as Blue Ribbon Schools Nov. 9 and 10 in Washington, D.C. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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Trinity JV Volleyball Wins CCC Championship

Trinity Presbyterian School’s junior varsity volleyball team finished the season strong by winning the CCC Championship. The team finished the season with an impressive 27-6 overall record. Hayden Tipton and Drue Walker were named to the All-Tournament team, while Ann Price Bishop was named AllTournament MVP!

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Holy Cross Collects Donations for Elmore County Humane Shelter

The Humane Society of Elmore County recently received much-needed supplies donated by the students of Holy Cross Episcopal School in Montgomery. Every October when the school celebrates the Blessing of the Animals, students collect pet food and other items for a local animal shelter as an outreach project. While Holy Cross students were excited to have their dogs, cats, rabbits, and even a chicken blessed, they became more excited as they watched the collection of donated pet supplies grow. Students brought in an assortment of food for dogs and cats, treats, toys, bedding, cleaning supplies and stacks of old newspapers. The donated items were presented to the humane society during the Blessing of the Animals on October 2, which was held in front of the Chapel of the Annunciation on the Holy Cross School campus. HSEC Executive Director Rea Cord said, “It was so heartwarming to see all the loved pets being blessed! Donations like these truly help as we work to care for those pets that do not (yet) have loving families.”

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Partners in Catholic Education (PICE) Host Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Partners in Catholic Education (PICE) hosted its 15th annual charity golf tournament at the Capitol Hill Robert Trent Jones Golf Course in Prattville on September 25. It was a great day for the 180+ golfers in attendance. Format was best ball. There were Holein-Ones consisting of a new car on both courses. There was also a putting contest for a cash prize 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, seminars for Middle School and the senior class. PICE has contributed more than $1.1 million in projects and equipment to Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School since the beginning. This year PICE honored Carole Clark, a dear friend and long-time PICE secretary who lost her battle with cancer this past year. The board of directors gave players and volunteers pink visors to wear in her memory. From left, Attorney General Luther Strange, PICE founder Liz Sutton, PICE volunteer Patty Debortoli and Dr. David Bronner enjoyed the reception after the tournament.

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

Elementary Pirate Math Night at ACA

Alabama Christian Academy elementary’s second Pirate Math Night was a stellar success with more than 300 students, parents, and guests dressed as pirates filling hallways and classrooms with eagerness to use pirate-themed math activities in everyday learning situations. “Math Night is about using your math skills in a fun way.,” said fifth-grader Rachel Dixon. “My favorite part was taking home measured treasure (snacks).”

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Macon East Celebrates Grandparents Day

Saint James SGA Visits Huntingdon

The Saint James School Student Government Association officers attended the Alabama Independent School Association conference September 14 at Huntingdon College in Montgomery. Independent schools from around the state attended the meeting where they were all given an opportunity to discuss plans for the school year, together. Front row from left are Sydney Brashears, Taylor Meadows, Emma Moody, Isabel Blancett and Daniel Kim; back row are Mason Edwards, James Kelly and Ian Tsekouras. Saint James SGA Sponsor is Kiki Hughes.

Macon East Academy K3 through 6th grade students held their annual Grandparents Day program on Thursday, October 1. Dressed in jeans, overalls, white shirts and bandanas, the boys and girls entertained their special guests with songs and poems celebrating grandparents. The cafeteria was filled with grandparents capturing photos and video of their special studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance. Following the program, students, teachers and grandparents enjoyed a brunch of cinnamon rolls, muffins, sausage balls, fruit and juice provided by the PTO.

Trinity Middle School Football Team CCC Champs! The Trinity Middle School football team defeated Saint James 24-12, capping off a perfect 7-0 season.

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Eastwood Seniors Host Swing Dance

Eastwood Christian School senior class hosted a “Swing Dance” to help raise funds for their Senior Europe trip. Eastwood seniors are given the opportunity to travel with the faculty on “A Trail of Three Cities,” a ten-day trip to Italy, France and England in the spring. This trip is one of the highlights of Eastwood’s “Classical Education.”

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Success Unlimited’s Lower Campus Celebrates ‘See You at the Pole’ The Lower Campus of Success Unlimited Academy gathered September 30 to join millions of students nationwide as they prayed for their schools, nation, state, city and political leaders. SUA’s program was part of an annual event which was initiated by students in Texas more than 25 years ago. SYATP encourages students to find new and unique ways, places, and times to pray. The SUA Ambassador team, along with their faculty sponsors, planned and led the program for grades K4 through 8. Ambassadors opened the program with the Pledge of Allegiance, along with a brief history of the “See You at the Pole” movement. This year’s scripture emphasis was “They all met together and were constantly united in prayer,” Acts 1:14. SUA’s students committed themselves to pray for their generation daily.

Macon East JV Volleyball State Runner-Ups

The junior varsity volleyball team competed in the AISA JV Volleyball State tournament October 10 at Kingwood Christian School. The team played hard all day and advanced through the winners bracket to the championship game where they fell to the host team. Freshmen Madisyn Kennedy and Bailey Williams and eighth-grader Emily Brooks were named to the all-tournament team. The young team has had an amazing undefeated regular season, and the players have grown tremendously in their knowledge of the game. Coaches are Amanda Smallwood and Brynn Nix. The team of 20 includes nine seventh-graders.

Frazer Preschool Students Visit Animal Hospital

Frazer United Methodist K4 students visited Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital to learn how to care for their pets. The students saw the equipment used to take x-rays, a vet showed them how they clean the dogs’ teeth, and then took them outside to watch the dogs play in the pool at the doggy day care. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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Trinity JV Volleyball Team Wins Prattville Tournament

Trinity’s junior varsity volleyball team continued its domination in tournament play, winning the Prattville JV Smash Tournament! In pool play, the Lady Wildcats defeated Smiths Station and Jeff Davis, lost to Vestavia Hills, and defeated the host team, Prattville, in the semi-final game. The Lady Wildcats faced Vestavia Hills again in the championship game, and won in 3 sets, 25-16, 20-25, and 16-14. The team combined for 104 kills, lead by Hayden Tipton and Joy Bishop with 27 each. Myra Rivers Dorey had 6 blocks, while Caroline Chapman had 47 assists, Drue Walker had 50 digs, and Pressley O’Ferrell had 12 aces. The JV volleyball team has won two out of three tournaments, culminating in an overall record 23-5.

Baldwin Middle Students Interviewed by BBC Staffers

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) recently interviewed a group of Baldwin Middle School students for the longest-running children’s show in the world, the BBC’s Blue Peter. The crew was in town after walking the historic Selma to Montgomery March route. They invited the Baldwin students to walk the last few steps from the downtown fountain to the State Capitol. During the walk, the group discussed the Civil Rights Movement. The BBC crew also attended a Lee High School football game. The Montgomery segments aired on the network in late October.

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STJ Celebrates Homecoming 2015

Senior Catherine Lauren Talkington, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Talkington, was crowned Saint James School’s 2015 Homecoming Queen in halftime ceremonies during STJ’s October 2 match-up against the Headland Rams. Lauren’s mother, Lynn Smith Talkington, is an STJ Alum ‘78. The Homecoming court included freshman attendant MarieSoleil Diane Turcotte, sophomore attendant Claudia Elizabeth Hubbard, junior attendant Nicole Irene Millerakis, and senior attendant Rylee Jewel Holt. Queen’s Attendants were Brooke Alexandra Engles and Emma Catherine Moody. The crown bearer was Saint James kindergartner Grayson Elyse Morgan. Grayson’s mother, Kelli Sutter Morgan, is a 2003 STJ alum. The Trojans won the night’s game against the Rams, 26-0. The Queen and her escort were presented along with her court and their escorts at the homecoming dance, following the game. From left, Marie-Soleil Diane Turcotte, Nicole Irene Millerakis, Brooke Alexandra Engles, Queen Lauren Talkington, Emma Catherine Moody, Rylee Jewel Holt, Claudia Elizabeth Hubbard and crown bearer Grayson Elyse Morgan.

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Montgomery Academy Seventh-Graders Qualify for Duke TIP

Forty-three students (72% of the class) from Montgomery Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seventh-grade class qualified to participate in the 36th Annual Scholastic Talent Search sponsored by Duke University Talent Identification Program. Eligible students must have scored at the 95th percentile or higher on a grade-level standardized achievement test, such as the Educational Records Bureau Comprehensive Testing Program (ERB). Students who qualified are Virginia Anderson, Venus Avezzano, Madi Caddell, Isabella Capouya, Ann Cobern Chapman, Jack Cleary, Jones Corley, Harris Gowan, Mary Frances Harper, Charlie Harrelson, Ben Harris, Hannah Hollingsworth, Virginia Hope, Cooper Horn, Bella Hosein, Jordan Hosp, Ben Jordan, Jackson Kelly, Maggie Kinney, Britton Kohn, Mychaela Mathews, Bryant McClendon, Stewart Miller, Cole Mozingo, Anna Perry, Brabee Pirnie, Harris Riley, Leighton Robertson, Ellie Sabel, Garrett Scott, Maddie Sinco, Alisha Singh, Ana Slack, Caroline Strickland, Easton Strickler, Janice Taylor, Turner Taylor, Ben Thackston, Anaya Thomas, Carter Wallis, Julia Williams and Kay Yelverton.

ACA Student Receives Leadership Award

Alabama Christian Academy senior Devin Gilliam was awarded the Dr. Kline Excellence in Leadership Award at Troy University recently as he attended the Leadership Conference at Troy. He was also awarded a books scholarship.

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Eastwood Group Brings Musical Encouragement

Lighthouse, a group of Eastwood Christian School students led by senior Anna Kometer, ECS teacher Greg Teal and ECS coach Mike Kometer, brings encouragement through music to different groups throughout Montgomery and the surrounding areas. At right is the Lighthouse group this summer at an assisted living community in the area.

Mt. Meigs Enjoys STEM

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Montgomery Parents I November 2015

Mt. Meigs Accelerated Christian Academy (MMACA) elementary students are enjoying the new STEM Club after school. This after-school program focuses on the dynamics of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. The STEM Club at MMACA is currently working on its first project which focuses mainly on engineering. Each student is building a one-way bridge out of popsicle sticks. The students plan, construct, and design their own unique bridge. Beginning in November, the STEM Club will participate in the Junior First Lego League. The 2015-2016 MMACA STEM Club members are Bryson Brooks, Micah Merritt, and Thaddeus Merritt Jr.

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Trinity Teddy Bears Spend the Night!

Nairobi Chamber Chorus Performs at MA

Montgomery Academy enjoyed a rare privilege on October 14 as it hosted the Nairobi Chamber Chorus from Nairobi, Kenya. This group has performed worldwide, from Soweto to London to Washington, at international music festivals and for such audiences as the Queen of England and President Obama. In addition to engagements with the Cape Town Opera and Ladysmith Black Mombazo, the chorus has performed and offered workshops for college and high school groups in East Africa. MA’s reputation for having a serious choral program led to a suggestion by Kevin Fenton, choral professor at the Florida State University, that the NCC lead the Upper School chorus in a workshop and sing for the student body. Led by Director Ken Wakia, the Nairobi Chamber Chorus is an amateur group of 22 singers aged 21-40 who come from many different institutions in Nairobi. In addition to making music, their mission is to promote peace and cross-cultural understanding. One way they do this is by hosting an exchange program in which established musicians work with nascent Kenyan musicians. After a U.S. tour in 2013 and tour of Spain this year, the NCC is touring several southeastern states in the U.S. this fall.

In what has become an annual favorite activity in the Trinity Presbyterian School kindergarten classrooms, students recently invited their teddy bears to spend the night at school. Teddy Bear Day was filled with counting, sorting, and graphing the teddy bears, as well as, some fun “gummy bear” patterning. Students also read “bear books” before tucking in their snuggly friends for a good night’s rest. However, the students realized the next morning that the bears did not sleep at all! In fact, some bears were found playing with Legos, working on the MacBook laptops, diving into toy bins, and even hanging from the Smart Board projectors!

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Montgomery Catholic Celebrates Homecoming

ACA Classes Conduct Rocket Project

Eighth-grade physical science classes at Alabama Christian Academy are constructing and launching water rockets in order to gain and apply knowledge of force and motion. They launch their rockets and record data from each launch based on specific criteria. They will then use this information to discover more about how scientific terms such as speed, velocity, acceleration, momentum, motion, and force all work together as well as how they can construct the rocket to manipulate these scientific variables.

Success Unlimited Music Class Works Hard

The Success Unlimited Academy Music Department has been hard at work this fall learning music theory, beginning keyboards and guitar. The students have already mastered the “C” and “G” chord progressions on keyboard and are quickly picking them up on the guitar. “I am really excited about this year’s classes,” said music instructor Jack Moody. “The kids this year are really motivated and I can’t wait to see what they can accomplish.” The winter concert is scheduled to be held on December 15 in the Vaughn Road Campus Performing Arts Center. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School crowned its 2015 Homecoming Queen and King during the half-time ceremonies of the varsity football game as the Knights hosted Holtville High School September 25. The school was honored to welcome back the 2014 Homecoming King and Queen, Carlye Schmidt and Reese Smith, to crown the 2015 Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Homecoming King and Queen. Schmidt is currently majoring in Psychology at AUM. Smith is currently majoring in Computer Engineering at Auburn University Montgomery. The Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Court included: senior attendants Agnes Armstrong, Eryka Ellington and Nadine Moussalli. Armstrong was escorted by Michael Collins, Ellington was escorted by Blake Johnson and Moussalli was escorted by Patrick O’Mara. Junior attendant Gabrielle Dallas was escorted by Morris Albert Lottinger IV. Sophomore attendant Annabel Catherine Starrett was escorted by Parker Dennis. Freshman attendant Katherine Koontz was escorted by Joseph Tate Holifield. Eryka Ellington and Michael Collins were announced as the 2015 Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Queen and King. Montgomery Catholic welcomed all alumni home with an alumni party at the Homecoming game from kick-off to half-time. Alumni, including the class of 1965 celebrating their 50th reunion, the class of 1985 celebrating their 30th reunion and the class of 1995 celebrating their 20th reunion, were able to enjoy a delicious meal from Jim-N-Nick’s and catch up with old classmates and coaches. Coaches Cliff Little, Ed Jones and Woody Weaver all made an appearance under the tent. Marty Taylor from the Class of 1948 joined the Knights football captains at the homecoming game as an honorary captain. Taylor wore the number 12 and was on the first Montgomery Catholic football team which was founded in 1945. He was one of only five students who went out for the beginning squad. After recruiting the rest of the team, a new legacy unfolded and has continued for 70 years. Montgomery Catholic coach and Mr. Taylor’s grandson, Alex Taylor, along with Mark Taylor (Marty’s son and Alex’s father) presented Marty with a game day jersey. A Montgomery Catholic commemorative coin was used for the coin toss and given to Mr. Taylor to mark the occasion, along with heartfelt thanks to him and all the men who have played football for the Knights. Montgomery Catholic students celebrated Homecoming Week at all campuses with a host of daily activities including the Homecoming Bonfire and mini-parade held on Thursday evening at the Middle/High School Campus for K4-12 families. Alumni Pat McGinn ‘85 had the honor of lighting the fire. President Anne Ceasar added fuel to the fire by burning the mortgage, with the help of varsity football players Mel Koontz and Wilson Miles, and announcing that Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is debt-free. On Friday the Middle and High School held a pep rally. The Friday night victory over Holtville (33-14) led to a fun night as the High School campus ended the week with their Homecoming Dance on Saturday, September 26, held at the Montgomery Catholic Holy Spirit Campus Gym. The theme was Carnival. From left are the 2015 Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Court: freshmen attendant Katherine Koontz escorted by Joseph Tate Holifield; junior attendant Gabrielle Dallas escorted by Morris Albert Lottinger IV, senior attendant Agnes Armstrong escorted by Blake Johnson, Homecoming Queen & King, Eryka Ellington and Michael Collins, senior attendant Nadine Moussalli escorted by Patrick O’Mara, and sophomore attendant Annabel Catherine Starrett escorted by Parker Dennis. Photo by Total Image.

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Floyd Attends AUM Math Day

Three Floyd Middle Magnet School students, Kerry Anne Straw, Kivy Hicks, and Claire Harden, chaperoned by 8th-grade math teacher Erika Impagliatelli, attended Sonia Kovalevsky Mathematics Day at AUM. The day is named in honor of Sonia Kovalevsky, who was the first woman to earn a doctorate in mathematics in 1874. The event is designed to encourage middle and high school-aged young women to consider careers in mathematics and the sciences. The Floyd students and other Montgomeryarea high school students heard a keynote address from Dr. Kristen Abernathy, Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Winthrop University, and participated in workshops and math games.

MEA’s Jim Brantley Inducted into Athletic Hall of Fame

Macon East Academy Athletic Director Jim Brantley was inducted into the Huntingdon College Athletic Hall of Fame at a ceremony held October 3. A 1996 graduate of Huntingdon College, Brantley was an ace pitcher for the Hawks baseball program. A native of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, he compiled a career record of 23-16 on the mound with five saves and a 3.44 ERA in 295.2 innings pitched in his sophomore year. Brantley’s junior season ended with a 10-3 record and a 1.61 ERA in 95 innings pitched, as well as a 16-inning complete game shutout against BirminghamSouthern. After his senior season, Brantley continued his baseball career with summer stops in Joliet, Illinois (North Central League), and Portsmouth, Illinois (Frontier League). He returned to Huntingdon for the 1996 season to finish his degree and serve as a pitching coach for the Hawks. Upon graduation, Brantley headed north to Springfield, Illinois, to help the Springfield Capitals win the 1996 Frontier League Championship, and ended that season with a 4-3 record and a 2.97 ERA. Brantley began his teaching career in 1999 as a teacher and head baseball coach at Fort Dale Academy. He returned to the professional baseball circuit in 2001 as a closer for the Montgomery Wings and in 2002 as a player/pitching coach for the Selma Cloverleafs. Coach Brantley joined the staff at Macon East in 2002 as a teacher and coach for the Knights baseball, basketball and football programs. He was named athletic director in 2012.

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Trinity Students Promote Hunger Awareness

Floyd Students Enjoy Spanish Art and Dance

In an effort to promote hunger awareness across the nation, September was designated as Hunger Action Month at Trinity Presbyterian School. It is also known as #Spoontember! In conjunction with “Change 4 Change,” Trinity’s Service 101 class raised awareness and resources for the Montgomery Food Bank, the largest food bank in Alabama. For two weeks, contributions that were given to “Change 4 Change,” Trinity’s school-wide mission project (K4-12), were donated to the area food bank. Every $1 = 6.5 pounds of food, which goes a long way in fulfilling their mission, to “feed hope across Alabama!” Calculations revealed that Trinity’s C4C donation equates to 13,000 meals! At three meals a day, C4C provided 4,333 individual people with a full day’s nutrition. To find out more about all of the Montgomery Food Bank’s efforts, please visit http:// www.montgomeryareafoodbank.org Shown, Trinity’s Service 101 Class visits Montgomery Area Food Bank.

Sra. Henley’s Spanish Club and Spanish class students at Floyd Middle Magnet School had the opportunity to attend the Hispanic Flamenco Art and Dance Show at Carver High School Auditorium September 18. The show featured Latin American dances and songs as well as the rich and cultural heritage of the Spanish. After the concert, the students went to a taco buffet catered by Pat Maggard.

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Eastwood Celebrates Summer Reading and Math Olympics

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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Students in grades K4 through six at Eastwood Christian School celebrated the summer reading and math competitions with a Nancy’s Italian Ice party. The parents joined the students for the awards ceremony. The top readers and mathematicians in each grade received Books-A-Million gift cards. The winners were: first-grade reading: Harper Thomas, first place; Kate Sonnichsen, second place; and Collier

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Miller, third place; second-grade reading: Caroline MacLeod, first place; Matt Hodges, second place; and Hope Birchfield, third place; third-grade reading: Abbie Ensminger, first place; Andrew Ensminger, second place; and Andrew Ewald, third place; third-grade math: Andrew Ensminger, first place; Abbie Ensminger, second place; and Emma Hawkins, third place; fourth-grade read-

ing: Emma Sonnichsen and Ava Grace Thomas, first place (2-way tie); M.E. Grace Shuemake, second place; and Ben Duggar, third place; fourth-grade math: Emma Finch, Kate Finch, Jack Hawkins and Paige Sawyer, first place (4-way tie); Hayes Finch, Molly Katherine Mauney, Samuel Treadwell and Ansley White, second place (4-way tie); and Sarah Cox, third place; fifth-grade reading: William Givens, first place; Gracie Phillips, second place; and Neva Schoettker, third place; fifth-grade math: Noah Davies, first place; and Neva Schoettker, second place; sixth-grade reading: Luke Duggar, first place; Gianna Foti, second place; and Josie Powe, third place; sixth-grade math: Farren Spear, first place; and Grayson Ashe, second place. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Saint James School Builds the B.E.S.T.

The Saint James School Robotics Team competed at the War Eagle B.E.S.T. (Boosting Engineering Science and Technology) Robotics competition October 9-10, against 19 other teams from east central Alabama and west Georgia. The Saint James team earned high commendations in six categories advancing the students to the South’s B.E.S.T. Robotics Competition December 5-6, also in Auburn. In six short weeks, the Saint James robotics team studied simulation software and programmed their robot. With the assistance of the Saint James Graphic Design class, the students designed a T-shirt to enter into competition. The hard-working group of teenagers brought home six top-three awards: First Place for their CAD Notebook (for the third consecutive year); Second Places for their Marketing Presentation and their T-Shirt Design; and Third Places for the B.E.S.T. Award, their website, and the Team Exhibit & Interview. The Saint James Robotics Team includes fourteen sophomores, juniors, and seniors: Isabel Blancett, Hayden Cruse, Josh Garnett, Jason Grate, Sean Jung, James Kelly, Daniel Kim, Gibeom Kim, Gyuna Kim, Connor Taylor, Jacob Turcotte, Harris Washington, Katelyn Worsham and Jason Zhang. Robotics teacher and sponsor is Vicky Eichelberg. The STJ Robotics Marketing Team is shown from left: Isabel Blancett, Harris Washington, Jason Zhang, Hayden Cruse, Gyuna Kim and Jacob Turcotte.

ECA and EFCA Students Meet at Flagpole to Pray

Recently the students from Evangel Christian Academy and Evangel Family Christian Academy joined together at the school’s flagpole to pray for their school, county, state, and country. The annual “See You at the Pole” event is celebrated each year by students all across the United States. All of the classes from the school and several homeschool families were represented. During the student-directed event, several students prayed and led praise and worship.

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Cornerstone Robotics Team Advances to State

HOOPER ACADEMY Grade Levels K-12

Please visit and see what we have to oﬀer your family! Early Learning Center 6 weeks thru K-4; Before & After School Care If you have any questions please contact Hooper Academy at (334) 288-5980. Hooper is located at 380 Fisher Road, Hope Hull, Alabama, just oﬀ I-65 South.

Students from Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy have the privilege of participating with the GEARS Robotics Team. Recently the team competed at the War Eagle’s BEST regional competition in Auburn. The GEARS team won a record number of awards advancing them to the state competition to be held in early December. The awards given to the GEARS team were as follows: 2nd Place BEST award; 3rd Place Robotics Competition; 1st Place Project Engineering Notebook; 2nd Place Team Exhibit and Interview; 3rd Place Marketing Presentation; 1st Place Web Page Design; 1st Place Most Elegant Robot; and 3rd Place Most Robust Robot. GEARS teacher is Lee Sumner.

Headmaster: Greg Faulkner • Asst. Headmaster/Athletic Director: Keith Moore 334-288-5980 • www.hooperacademy.org • HCAinfo@hooperacademy.org

MEA Takes Tasty Field Trip

The kindergarten through 3rd-grade students from Macon East Academy enjoyed visiting Montgomery’s Downtown Farm location of EAT South. Students were able to plant seeds in the greenhouse, harvest, and taste food from the farm, as well as interact with chickens and learn the importance of composting. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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Academy Students Design Arcade Games

Success Unlimited Cooks Meal of the Week

Creamy chicken alfredo was the “dish” of the week at Success Unlimited Academy. Kay Smith’s Acheivers Class successfully completed another Life Skills Lab and enjoyed sharing the responsibility in the kitchen. “Preparing one-pot meals that are easy seems to work best for the students,” Smith said. “The students enjoy doing all of the prep work, cooking, and eating the results.” This week Kiki Hardwick, Spencer Reeves,and Alexia Phillips were the chefs. Waiting patiently for 20 minutes until the dish was done, the students cleaned up and set the table. After finishing his bowl, Dari Crum said, “This is great; I want seconds!”

Second-grade students at Montgomery Academy recently took part in the Imagination Foundation’s 4th Annual Global Cardboard Challenge designing and building their own arcade games from cardboard boxes. The challenge was inspired by nine-year-old Caine Monroy, who spent the summer of 2011 building an arcade created entirely out of cardboard boxes and everyday objects from his father’s used auto parts store. After the short film, “Caine’s Arcade,” went viral, the Imagination Foundation was launched and the annual challenge began prompting a global movement to foster creativity in kids. More than 125,000 participants in 46 countries have participated in the Global Cardboard Challenge. Lower School STEM instructor Dinah McLemore was excited to introduce the project this year encouraging her students to think creatively and let their imaginations lead the way. The Imagination Foundation created the challenge as an opportunity for children to explore their interests and passions while also teaching them valuable skills such as critical thinking, resourcefulness and teamwork. MA students worked in groups of three or four to develop their idea, present the idea to their classmates and provide feedback to their peers. After the presentations, class-

mates shared their thoughts in the form of “I Like, I Wish, I Wonder.” In addition to cardboard boxes, students incorporated bottle caps, buttons, plastic bottles and fast food restaurant toys into their designs. On October 6, students were able to transform their ideas into a reality when they constructed their arcade games. “I like how different and creative all of the arcade games are!” said second-grade student Noah Richburg. On building day, classmate Mac Benefield added, “I thought today was just going to be crazy, but it turned out to be really fun!” McLemore said of her first experience with the Global Cardboard Challenge Project, “I have been amazed by the enthusiasm the kids have brought to the project. It was also a great way for them to learn how to give and receive constructive feedback. It was inspiring to watch!”

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Bullying: Up Close and Personal Children face many fears going into a new school year: new friends, a new teacher, bigger kids, and maybe even bigger bullies. Transitioning from school to school can be tough on your little one, especially if another student is bullying him or her. According to a 2015 study from the National Bullying Prevention Center, 1 out of 4 students report being bullied each year. A 7-year-old student from the River Region area, Braden T., knows what it is like being one of the four and wanted to share his experience with Montgomery Parents. Read his interview below. Kathryn: “Braden, how you would describe your bullying experience?” BT: “I was picked on a lot last year. (She) was always pushing me around after she called me mean names.” Kathryn: “What do you think bullying does to people when they grow up? Do you think it should be stopped?” BT: “Yes! It’s getting more powerful. People are starting to do it more.” Kathryn: “So have you ever heard of River Region ROCK at your school?” BT: “No? What is it?”

Kathryn: “River Region ROCK is an organization that has been formed to stop bullying in schools and the ROCK Task Force is a group of individuals who help provide workshops for children to learn the value of respecting others. They also teach what it means to create kindness for those around them. What do you think respect is, Braden?” BT: “It means treating other people good!” Kathryn: “Do you think that bullies should learn what respect is?” BT: “Mhm. They should learn that bullying is mean and that it hurts people’s feelings. If they like doing it, they are going to keep on doing it!” Kathryn: “Do you think if the ROCK Task Force came to your school they could help stop your bully and others too?” BT: “Yeah! They sound like superheroes! Someone needs to teach those bullies a lesson.”

According to a 2013 study by the National Bullying Prevention Center, school-based bullying prevention programs decreased bullying by up to 25%. Raising awareness of all types of bullying can make schools safer places for everyone. The ROCK Task Force (Respect Others, Create Kindness) is a group of over 65 members from churches and organizations, including counselors, ministers and many others who are dedicated to helping educate our children on the harmful effects of bullying through awareness and education. Many children like Braden are affected every day when they witness bullying or experience it firsthand. For more information, please visit www.rocktaskforce.com. Article submitted by Kathryn Taylor. In conjunction with the Montgomery Chapter of the Public Relations Council of Alabama, Montgomery Parents is devoting space in the coming year for a series of articles about bullying to raise awareness.

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Macon East Visits Pioneer Museum

Macon East Academy students enjoyed a recent trip back in time to Pioneer Days at the Pioneer Museum in Troy, Alabama. The 4th-,5th- and 6th-graders learned about life in the 19th century and pioneer heritage. Students enjoyed visiting the cabins, spinning cotton, churning butter and feeding the chickens.

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The students at Evangel Christian Academy recently enjoyed celebrating homecoming. During Spirit Week, the students were allowed to dress up each day and participate in various activities. Some of the dress up days included tacky day, nerd day, spirit day, pink out day in respect for breast cancer awareness month, and character day. The 7th-12th grade classes each decorated a car/float and invited the elementary classes to a schoolwide parade. Not to be outdone, the elementary classes each decorated a wagon and invited the high school to their parade. All the excitement of the week came to a climax on Friday night with the homecoming football game and court. The ECA Alumni were invited to a special reception and the football game. During halftime, the homecoming court was presented and the queen was crowned.

Evangel Christian Academy Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education. Our desire is to help each child achieve their God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth.

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The Autauga County School System celebrates each success and works to improve any shortcomings. Every day is spent working toward one goal---excellence. As we close the book on the fiscal year 2015, a celebration is appropriate. I am thrilled to announce that our financial situation has improved from a near State Department of Education take over in 2011 to a more solid financial footing today. Many taxpayers may not realize that all school systems are required by law to keep a one month operating balance. Autauga Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s necessary balance is $5.1 million. In 2011, our system was in a dire situation with an ending balance of $153,000. In four short years, not only have we managed to reach our required balance, but we have exceeded it! We closed out the 2015 year with $5.8 million in our general fund!

What does this mean for Autauga County? First, we no longer have to attend meetings and submit plans to reach our required one month operating balance. Next, we do not have to seek State Department of Education approval to refinance our existing debt to take advantage of lower interest rates. Finally, we have the financial freedom to make purchases without State Department of Education approval. An example would be purchasing new buses with our fleet renewal money. What does this mean for the schools? By passing a budget each year that was not only balanced but contained a surplus, we were able to meet the state required one month operating balance. While we were getting our financial house in order by making prudent and wise decisions, we were still able to make capital improvements all over the county. Parking lots were paved and refurbished. Schools were painted and improvements like new tile and carpet were made. Technology was upgraded at all schools. Each school now has a wireless management system, and additionally, thirteen new computer labs were

added. We also quadrupled our bandwidth and purchased fifty-nine Nooks, hundreds of computers, laptops, and IPads! What does this mean for students? Textbooks had not been bought for many years prior to the purchasing of math textbooks in the summer of 2012. Now each student has a math and English/reading book, and students in grades 7-12 have a history book. Being financially sound means that students will receive new textbooks on a regular schedule. Textbooks, remodels, and technology on top of a surplus in our general fund---what a way to end one financial year and head into another! Great things are happening in Autauga County Schools! Our administrators, teachers, and staff members continue to give 100% and constantly set the achievement bar higher and higher, and our students and parents continue to reach for the top. 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

Autauga County Tech Center Hosts Manufacturing Day Celebration

PJHS Football Players Visit Prattville Primary

A group of 7th- and 8th-grade football players represented Prattville Junior High School during National Breakfast week. They supported the Cubs at Prattville Primary School by having breakfast with the students and sharing ways to better improve their bodies and a few football tales along the way. Upon their return, one student told the principal, “It sure was a lot of fun mentoring the little kids. We need to do more of that!”

Manufacturing Day is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers. To honor this event, Autauga County Technology Center paired with the Prattville Chamber of Conference to use October 2 as a day to expose their career-minded students to life in the workforce. Representatives from companies in the surrounding areas were invited to participate. International Paper, Alabama Technology Network, Mayor Bill Gillespie, Trenholm State Community College, Central Alabama Electric Cooperative, Gipson’s Tire Center, Four Star Freight Liners, Superintendent Spence Agee, and council members from the Region Seven Workforce were all participants in this event. Students were given the opportunity to present questions to the panel of participants to better prepare themselves for college and career readiness. “This was a great opportunity for our students to receive input from industries that will help them prepare for their future,” explained ACTC Principal Brock Dunn. “Our Autauga County Schools career coach, Chris Thornton, helped to plan this event with the Chamber. I feel it had such a positive impact on our ACTC students. It also speaks volumes that these businesses took time out of their busy schedules to help educate our children.”

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Prattville High Presents ‘Chemistry in Motion’

The Prattville High School Advanced Placement Chemistry students presented “Chemistry in Motion” October 7 in the PHS Media Center. This demonstration was a fundraiser for the PHS Science Olympiad Team and all proceeds will go to purchase materials needed to prepare for their Science Olympiad Competition in February 2016. Five groups of AP students each demonstrated three experiments, including catching a dollar on fire yet the dollar didn’t burn, burning ice that didn’t melt, creating elephant toothpaste, illustrating how the human body “burns” calories from a gummy bear, and conjuring a genie in a bottle. The students explained the chemical reactions to the captive crowd to illustrate that chemistry can be fun.

PJHS Students Prepare for College It is our mission at Prattville Jr. High School to ready our students to be prepared and knowledgeable graduates in the future. In our College Applications CATalyst class, we are doing just that. In this class, students have the opportunity to explore higher education options. Throughout the course of the class, students are becoming familiar with various colleges and the opportunities that are offered at these various colleges. Here at PJHS, our Cats are preparing to take on college and succeed in all that they do! 49

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THANK YOU, PARENTS! October has been deemed Statewide Parent Visitation Month. In recognition of this observance, our school board also passed a resolution proclaiming October as Parent Visitation Month in our school system. This year’s theme is Homes and Schools: Cultivating Positive Relationships, and we have already held a wide variety of activities and events designed with this theme in mind to involve parents, grandparents, community members and others. Our elementary schools have been very busy this month with creative activities to engage their stakeholders. At Coosada Elementary and Holtville Elementary, we have held Prime Time Family Reading Nights where parents were provided with books to take home to read to their children and follow up activities to foster discussion at home. Wetumpka Elementary hosted Math Night

earlier this month and has a second session scheduled for October 23. Redland Elementary PTO meeting featured a play performed by Mrs. Trussell’s class, and the Library invited a grandmother dressed as Mother Goose to read to younger students. Airport Road Intermediate School hosted over 500 participants for their Grandparents’ Day celebration. Holtville Elementary and Wetumpka Elementary participated in a 9/11 remembrance memorial. HES partnered with Holtville Elementary School in California, through distance learning, and WES had the mayor, fire department, and parents to participate in their program. Wetumpka Elementary hosted its first-ever run event, the Frankenstein 5K, on October 17, and Eclectic Elementary hosted the 5K Cotton Run on October 24. Last but not least, all of our elementary schools hold fall festivals which are enjoyed by children, parents, grandparents, and community members. Our middle and high schools also have many opportunities for parents and others to be involved in their children’s activities. Football and homecoming festivities are always exciting, and Stanhope Elmore High School’s 50th anniversary celebration was no exception! Former administrators, teachers, and alumni

were invited to participate in various activities throughout the week. A county-wide College Night was held at Wetumpka High School to which all high school seniors and their parents were invited. Math Nights have been held at Holtville Middle and Wetumpka Middle and are scheduled for Eclectic Middle and Millbrook Middle in the near future. A county-wide Parent Awareness Seminar is in the planning stages, and more details will be provided soon. We in the Elmore County School System recognize that parent engagement is a key factor to student success, and it is important for all of us to work together to benefit the whole child. We invite you to partner with us, not only in October but throughout the year, to support our students academically, socially, and emotionally with your presence and encouragement in all of their endeavors. For information on events or how you can be involved in your child’s school, please contact the Central Office at 334.567.1200 or your child’s school.

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Andre` L. Harrison has served as a teacher, acting principal, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services and Human Resources, Assistant Superintendent of Education, and the Deputy Superintendent of Education/Chief of Staff. He is married to Monica, and they have a daughter, Aundrea, who attends the UAB. They reside in Millbrook, Alabama.

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“One test of the correctness of educational procedure is the happiness of the child.”

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Set in a beautiful community just off Taylor Road in Montgomery, Montessori School at Hampstead provides a hands-on, tailor-made approach to education that nourishes a student’s curiosity inside and outside the classroom. Our students are able to work at their own pace and receive the time and attention they need to excel. We offer programs not found at other schools such as farm-based and international curricula along with fundamentals, French, Art, and P.E. We welcome children age 18-months through 9th grade.

334-356-1969 MSHMontgomery.org Montessori School at Hampstead, Inc. is a 501(c3) non-profit organization. Montessori School at Hampstead, Inc. admits students of any race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Montessori School at Hampstead, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, loan programs, athletic programs, and other school-administered programs.

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Holtville High Welcomes New Staffers

Holtville High School welcomes new teachers and staff. From left are: Matthew Chambless, Band Director; Mark Turner, Health; Alyssia Partridge, English; Ben Jackson, Science; Paige Keeter, Math; and Brandi Guary, Special Education Paraprofessional.

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ECHS Students Read To Elementary Classes

The Elmore County High School Book Club read Not Norman: A Goldfish Story to classes at Eclectic Elementary for Read for the Record Day.

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Coosada FD Visits Airport Road

Airport Road Intermediate received a special visit from the Coosada Fire Department on Oct. 5th. The fireman came to share crucial safety tips with the students during Fire Prevention Week. The students got to participate in safety drills and witness proper methods of fire safety. ARIS is very thankful for community volunteers who are willing to share in the education of our students. 51

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Elmore County Schools

WES Third-Graders Visit DeSoto Caverns

ARIS Honors Grandparents

Airport Road Intermediate held an extremely “grand” event in late September. More than 300 grandparents were in attendance for Grandparents’ Day lunch and a special program performed by the students. So many people worked to make this day a success including volunteers, staff, lunchroom workers, central office staff and Career Tech Culinary students.

On October 7, Wetumpka Elementary third grade students visited Desoto Caverns. DeSoto Caverns are a series of geologic caves and a tourist attraction located in Childersburg, Alabama. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, it is touted as “Alabama’s Big Cave.” Students were given the opportunity to tour the caverns, pan for gold, and attempt a maze. Students traveled to three towers and at each tower collected a different traveler’s stamp on their ticket. Students panned for gemstones, and were able to find onyx, pyrite and other semiprecious stones.

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Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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Millbrook Middle Holds Homecoming Events

The week of September 21-25, Millbrook Middle School celebrated Homecoming. Each day students dressed up. Monday was Neon Day, Tuesday was Rock, Country and Hip Hop Day, Wednesday was Shipwreck Island Day, Thursday was Mustang Gone Mad Day, and Friday was Grade Level Color Day. The 2015 MMS Homecoming court included: 5th grade: Bella Barfoot, Marissa James, Dillon Barnes and Zach Stevens; 6th grade: Chloe Wegner, Kelbi Johnson, Parker Lee Harris and Jakobe Smith; 7th grade: Abrianna Wright, Macie Smith, Xavier Hall and Austin Gay; and 8th grade: Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Leciah Salter, Laricka Parks, Aubrey Beyer, Daniel Janes, Tray Duncan and Jordan Epkins. Parks and Epkins were crowned king and queen during the Homecoming game.

Eclectic Elementary Names September Students of the Month

Kindergarten: Jamie Lovelady, Marshall Stroud, Daniel Weldon, Jordan Smith, Gabby Kendrick, Blaine Attaway; 1st Grade: Zane Priest, Parker Luster, Brock Hragyil, Haylie Mann, Katelyn Frazier, Tony Mask; 2nd Grade: Sydney Boardwine, Isabella Fulmer, Zoe Parr, Bailey Gardner, Gage Tompkins, Natalie Moore; 3rd Grade: Alexa Harrison, Danny Wellman, Ellie Milam, Chaning Thomas, Emily Pickett, Dallin Simpson; and 4th Grade: Hunner Mulder, Taylor Clayton, Hayes Fulmer, Morgan Spear, Laniya Gill

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Elmore County Schools

Clyde Chambliss Presents Elmore County with Grant

Holtville Teacher Named WSFA Class Act

At left, Holtville Elementary teacher Julie Conn was recently selected as the WSFA Class Act Award Winner. Station meteorologist Amanda Curran visited Conn at the school to make the presentation in front of her students.

State Senator Clyde Chambliss presented a Community Service Grant check in the amount of $8,000 to the Elmore County Board of Education to be distributed to the school libraries and the newspaper project at Stanhope Elmore High School. Chambliss stated it was a pleasure to provide financial assistance for the students and schools of Elmore County. Shown, Elmore County librarians and Superintendent Andre’ Harrison with Senator Clyde Chambliss.

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Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.

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Eclectic First-Graders Study Johnny Appleseed

Mrs. Sandlin’s first-grade class at Eclectic Elementary celebrated Johnny Appleseed’s birthday by making a sign, crafts and reading books about him.

Redland Kindergartners Celebrate Community Helpers

Redland Elementary kindergarten classes recently held Community Helper Day. Haynes brought the Life Flight helicopter for the kids to see, and a firefighter talked to the classes about fire safety. Paige Pyles’s class is shown with the helicopter.

Wetumpka Teachers Complete Training

On October 12, teachers from Wetumpka Elementary received their CPR certification for children and adults. CPR instructors were Margaret Sims and Margo Thomas. Newly certified teachers, front row from left, are Shay Weldon, Margo Thomas, Mallory Thornton, Leigh Lightner, Cheryl Jones, Natasha McMillan; and back row, Brandy Ingram, Emily Wells, Debra Weldon, Margaret Sims, Michelle Russell, Taryn Brodie and Judy Welch. Teachers also completed the Marshall Anderson Challenge Course in Wetumpka for their professional development. The course is created to build self-confidence and teamwork.

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ARIS Participates in ‘See You at the Pole’

Airport Road Intermediate students, parents and teachers recently observed See You at the Pole. ARIS PE Coach Jared Parker led the group in singing “This Little Light of Mine.” The group was encouraged to spread goodness throughout the school and shine their very own light of goodness.

Business Owner Donates to HES

Holtville Rewards Perfect Attendance

Ben McNeill with Citgo United Food and Fuel came by Holtville Elementary and donated $507 to the school.

September was Attendance Awareness Month and Holtville Elementary celebrated by having a bike drawing for students who had perfect attendance for the month. Bikes were donated by the local Wetumpka and Millbrook Walmart stores. 55

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Dealing with Distraction Many parents are conscientious about making rules for when and how kids can use technology. But what about rules for parents? For her book, The Big Disconnect, Catherine Steiner-Adair, a psychologist at Harvard, interviewed more than 1000 children, aged 4-18. Over and over, she heard kids talk about how they felt frustrated or forlorn because their parents spent too much time on their cellphones. The same results showed up in the State of the Kid Survey, done by Highlights Magazine in 2014. Over half the children surveyed reported that their parents often didn’t respond to them because they were distracted by technology—laptops, cellphones or television. Several researchers have observed that interacting with technology is different from other parenting activities like cooking, shopping or even driving in ordinary traffic. Cellphones, in particular, are designed to grab and hold attention, so people lose track of other things including how much time they’ve spent staring at the device. E-mailing, texting or even scrolling through social media preoccupies parents in a way that can make children feel shut out, lonely and unimportant. At the same time, giving kids constant undivided attention isn’t possible or desirable. Children need to learn how to soothe and amuse themselves. They benefit from opportunities to play and daydream without the direct supervision of adults. Also, good parenting can’t happen in a vacuum. Adults must earn a living and stay informed. They are also likely to be more grounded and happier if they stay connected to colleagues, friends and other parents, something that’s supported by new technologies. In other words, cellphones and other technological distractions aren’t a problem in and of themselves. They become a problem Montgomery Parents I November 2015

when parents aren’t mindful about how they distribute their most precious resource—attention. Here are things to consider: Focus on safety. After years of decline, visits to pediatric emergency rooms have risen. No one can prove cellphones are responsible but research shows that adults who use cellphones while walking, much less driving, are more likely to have accidents. For safety’s sake, parents (and other caregivers) should put away all devices when supervising kids in risky settings—changing tables, bathtubs, parking lots, city streets, swimming pools and playgrounds—where even a moment of inattention can be dangerous. Make the most of reunions. Adair recommends putting devices on hold when family members see each other after they’ve been separated. Make yourself fully available when you pick your child up from daycare or other activities and when someone (including your spouse!) walks into the house. Plan ahead so you can stop what you’re doing and let your child know how happy you are to see him or her. Teach (and appreciate) patience. There’s nothing wrong with asking a child to wait while an adult finishes a task. How long a child can be patient depends upon age, temperament and other stresses, so you’ll want to take those variables into account when you ask for “just a sec” to finish something on your phone or laptop. Be sure not to take advantage of your child’s self control. If you promised to get a snack or play a game in ten minutes, set a timer so you keep your commitment. Respect tech free zones. Many families enjoy each other’s company more if they put technology off-limits at particular times. Meals and bedtime are obvious choices but you might also set aside time for a walk after dinner or game night on the weekend. Some families make the car a tech-free zone, but others depend on tech to relieve the stress of a long commute. Once you decide on rules 56

that make sense for your family, be sure you follow as well enforce them. Before checking in with a ping that seems urgent, think about what you’re telling your children about their place in your priorities. Monitor emotions. Do you feel irritated when your child wants your attention? In one recent study, researchers observed caregivers and children in a restaurant. Most of the adults used a cellphone during the meal, and those who were most focused on their phones responded harshly to interruptions. Some kids gave up and sat passively, but others became more disruptive in an effort to get the adult’s attention. If negative feelings are building in you or your child, it’s time to take a tech break and tune in to what’s happening. Take a breath and focus on your child. If you have to correct misbehavior, feel compassion for what has caused it. Notice what your child is doing right. Ask yourself what you can do to restore good feelings. Make good use of found time. Even when life is very busy, there are moments of unclaimed time. Your toddler is napping. Your school age child is playing happily with a friend. Your teen is engrossed in homework. Use these moments on something that will replenish and not deplete your energies. If you reach for your device, be selective. Answer the e-mail that’s weighing on your conscience. Reach out to the friend who lifts your spirits. Pay attention to your feelings. Does a hit of social media feel refreshing? Or would you be better served using found time on exercise, crossing off something on the To-do list or daydreaming with a cup of tea? Finally, think about times in your life when you have felt treasured and loved. In all likelihood, you had another person’s full attention. Be sure your child regularly has that experience in your company. Read together. Share a snack. Take a walk. Play a game. Snuggle before bedtime. What you do doesn’t matter nearly as much as the fact that you let go of everything else so your child can feel the security and warmth of your undistracted love. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2015, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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Benefits of the token system The token system has a number of advantages over other forms of discipline and behavior management plans. First, it can be carried out any time and any place. Children often act up in stores or public places, leaving parents with few options for immediately settling the problem. But with the token system, you and your child will carry a supply of tokens everywhere you go. Before you head out, remind your child that good behavior will be rewarded and that inappropriate behavior will result in immediate loss of tokens. The second advantage is the token system teaches children how to save, budget, and plan expenditures because tokens are used similarly to money. Next, this system prevents inappropriate or useless measures that parents often utilize in the heat of the moment. The token system makes empty threats a thing of the past, and because your child is aware of the consequences and your ability to administer them immediately, he’s less likely to act up. Fourth, the token system is a positive approach by eliminating criticism, yelling, arguing, and other unhealthy and ineffective ways parents often get caught up in dealing with problem behavior. Finally, the token system can be altered regularly to keep kids’ interest and thereby increase its effectiveness. The token system, or one of its variations, can be used from about the age of three on into the preteen years, depending on your child’s level of maturity.

Getting started Make a list of the behaviors you’d like to work on with your child including positive behaviors you’d like your child to improve on, such as using good table manners or putting dirty clothes in the hamper. If your child is five or older, also make a separate list of problem behaviors you’d like to reduce, such as name calling or hitting. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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For children under five, the token system should be used only for reinforcing positive behavior. The frustration caused by losing tokens for poor behavior will not be helpful to the preschooler. That said, when a preschooler misbehaves, you can simply tell your child she will not be receiving any tokens as a result of the bad behavior. Next, go through each list and prioritize, and choose only four or five behaviors to work on at a time. Once your child has improved on a certain behavior, remove it from the list and add a new one. Next determine how many tokens to reward your child or to confiscate for specific behaviors. Your list might look similar to the one below. Keep in mind the number of tokens assigned to a particular behavior should fit the severity or difficulty of the behavior relative to the other behaviors on which you are working. Hang up book bag and jacket Eat supper without complaining Saying please and thank you Completing homework Hitting Tattling

Earn 3 tokens Earn 2 tokens Earn 1 token Earn 6 tokens Lose 5 tokens Lose 2 token

You should also try to estimate the number of tokens your child is likely to earn and lose in a week. Your child should be able to earn enough tokens to pay for problem behaviors. It’s not a good idea for your child to go into debt. If this becomes a problem, adjust the distribution of tokens accordingly. You’ll also need to choose rewards your child can purchase with the tokens. Determine what will be most enticing to your child. While a trip to rent a DVD might be a real winner with some kids, others won’t be fazed by it. As you plan the rewards, include privileges your child asks for or does regularly and would be devastating to your child if the privilege were lost. Those rewards will be the strongest motivators. To make such rewards effective, you’ll need to place limits on those privileges unless they have been earned and purchased by your child. Be sure to set guidelines with your child for rewards that require your time or attention. If your child wants to buy a trip to the apple orchard, require a two-day notice. While for a board game you might agree you’ll play within four hours of a request. 59

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Fun rewards for gaining your child’s cooperation:

Call it intuition,

A trip to the ice cream parlor A DVD or video game rental Collector cards Gel pen A trip to the park Favorite fast food Playing a board game with Mom or Dad A new book A pass to stay up late A friend overnight An hour of TV A packet of colorful modeling clay Bowling or roller skating Favorite meal for supper

but no one

understands her own body more than a woman. And that’s why you’ll appreciate Dr. LaToya Clark as she brings a

unique, female perspective as well as Set a variety of values to the rewards so your child has the option to either make frequent purchases or to save for something big. Small children require frequent opportunities to purchase rewards to maintain their interest. Poker chips make good tokens. For older children assign different point values to each color. Finally, when handing out tokens, always verbally praise your child. Say you’re proud of his actions or appreciate her thoughtfulness. When your child is no longer earning tokens for the behavior, continued use of praise will reinforce it.

her medical expertise to patients in the River Region.

Dr. Clark is now accepting new patients and offers a full range of obstetric and gynecological services. Because no one understands a woman’s health like another woman.

FOR AN APPOINTMENT, CALL 334-284-1500.

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If your child struggles to complete schoolwork and turn in assignments, use the token system for this alone. Ask your child’s teacher to send home a daily report of what your child has completed and turned in, then reward your child’s efforts. Use grade rewards only if your child is capable of achieving high marks without too much difficulty. As your child approaches the teen years, tokens may be perceived as childish. If your preteen still struggles behaviorally and with completing tasks, offer a checkbook ledger for tallying points instead. When points are earned, have your child fill in the ledger with the specific behavior or task and the number of points earned. Then immediately initial to show you’ve approved the points. mp Kimberly Blaker, of Arizona, is an author and freelance writer. Her articles have appeared in more than 200 newspapers, parenting and women’s magazines, and other publications throughout the U.S.

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Getting the Wheels Rolling

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Most adults can still remember the heady feeling of independence that accompanied acquiring their license to drive. It’s a feeling that isn’t limited to teens. The mastery of forward motion on wheels drives a satisfying sense of freedom at every age. When kids get their first set of wheels, it puts them on the road to independence as well as enhancing gross motor skills, cultivating balance and developing coordination. The following rides are great starts toward getting little ones rolling on the road to independence.

by Gerry Paige Smith

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Fly Bike

Radio Flyer Ziggle

Ideal for riders on the go, the Fly Bike is ready to roll at a moment’s notice. Designed for indoor and outdoor use, the Fly Bike offers a threewheeled base for beginning gliders. Pedal-free, the bike is propelled by feet and sized for the littlest riders who feel too big to be pushed (and are young yet for balance bikes). The added appeal of the Fly Bike is its portability. It folds down into a small bundle that kids can easily carry and it stores in the back seat of a car. The Fly Bike goes everywhere so little riders can roll anywhere they go.

Powered by kid energy alone, the Radio Flyer Ziggle is all action for young riders. Kids generate forward motion on the Ziggle by twisting the handlebars while wiggling the back. The caster-style wheels also create the opportunity for 360 degree travel and turns. As riders develop their “Ziggle wiggle”, they can explore the spin-out capabilities of the widebased, low-sling Ziggle. The Ziggle doesn’t have brakes, so it’s ideal for riding and spinning on flat surfaces. For the kid with energy to burn, or the child who needs more physical activity, exercise is definitely a benefit that comes with the Ziggle!

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Batman Baby Walker

PlasmaBike (PlaSmart)

With a cool design that mimics the fast track racers, the PlasmaBike has all the visual cues of a speed bike. But it’s actually a much simpler ride. The PlasmaBike is crafted with lightweight, safe materials and has no gears, chains or pedals. It’s extra wide wheels and limited turn range help little riders keep this balance bike upright in its stationary position. Bolstering their confidence as they develop their coordination, the PlasmaBike combines bike fun with balance training as kids cultivate their skills on wheels.

(Kids Embrace)

Babies know that they’ve leveled up once they age into the walker that allows them to move about, to have some autonomy. It’s a small but important step when toddlers learn that they can control the motion of their conveyance. And, if we’re honest, there really is no cooler conveyance than a baby Batmobile. The Baby Batman walker features all the awesome hallmarks of the DC detective’s ride, as well as an activity tray with a key that starts a rumbling engine sound, a gear shift, lights and more. Adjustable heights and a high backrest ensure comfort for the babe behind the wheel. It’s true that there are other rolling walkers available, but if there’s a Batman wheeled walker...always be Batman.

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

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Plant the Seeds: Teach your values

Projects for Your Generous Family

Agree on the values you wish to teach your -Allow children to do chores to earn money for children and encourage the purpose of giving to a worthy cause. them in everyday living—in -Adopt a needy family through a local agency work and play and how you and meet their holiday needs. spend your time. Those les-Work as a family to earn money to donate to a sons begin in the nursery specific family-selected charity. and continue to adulthood. -Make the decision to sort through old clothing, In the book Just Moms, Conveying Justice in an toys and other possessions to “pare down” posUnjust World, Marta Oti sessions and live with less. Sears writes about a project -Take the entire family to a shelter or group her seven year old daughhome and help serve a meal. ter took on one Christmas. -Choose to provide a snack or meal to a homeThe year before, she’d parless person you pass on the roadways each day. ticipated in a project to give -Decide how to spend vacation time with an a farm animal to a needy emphasis on enjoying one another without excommunity overseas but cess financial drain. this year, said her daughter, “I want to give the whole -Regularly plan family fun times including farm!” The whole farm was games, music, food, work projects and other a group of animals costing inter-generational or extended family activities. in excess of $2000. Marta -At meal times make it a point to discuss the outlines her family’s journey “fine art of having enough.” What does it look through, “Can we really do like in real life? What are the distinctions beit?” to “Yes, we did it with tween wants and needs? the help of friends and family.” You can bet the family ence. Have a family meeting and talk had planted those seeds in about the choices you make. Explain why their daughter’s heart at an early age and you make certain purchases, what you give as a result they’ll all treasure the memory to others and why you shop for bargains. forever. Why do you choose certain family activities and not others? When do you refrain from Water: Tell Your Stories spending? Does fun always require spendMost of us have stories from our faming a lot of money? Are there opportunities ily’s history documenting a much simpler for your family to give time or money to lifestyle. My father received only one gift his help others? Model the decision-making entire childhood. It was a sled made by his process and include the children. father. His was a North Dakota farm family working hard to make a simple living, and Reap the Reward: gifts were not expected. Knowing his father took the time to make the sled for him made A Thankful Family in Action it more than special. The benefit of careful planting, watering When my own children had questions and pruning is a healthy family with thankful about the concepts of rich and poor we children. You’ll have kids who understand came up with a saying that covered our life beyond their own wants and needs. A philosophy of family life. It was, “We’re rich thankful heart doesn’t just happen, it’s taught in love.” The children knew we gave gifts over time. Living out the values of a thankto those less fortunate. They knew we had ful heart in day to day family life isn’t easy enough to share with others in times of in our consumer-driven world. We have to need. The message they received was the say no to the want-more, have-more cycles truth––we had all we needed and enough so many families embrace. But we can do left over to be generous. We were content. it, because it’s the right thing to do. So go What true stories of simpler times do you ahead and plant, water, feed and prune. have to share with your kids? Your family will thrive when you teach them

Feed and Prune: Model a Thankful Lifestyle

Children may learn by hearing stories, but they’ll take to heart the things they see with their own eyes and actually experi-

to have thankful hearts.

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a freelance writer published in Young Child, Momsense, The Mother’s Heart and in Just Moms: Conveying Justice in an Unjust World. She currently helps to plant, water and prune the thankful lives of her three terrific grandsons.

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Montgomery 10th 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 2-6 from 1-8 p.m. A special concert for Seniors and Veterans will be held Thursday, Dec. 3 from 9:30-10:30 a.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 18th Annual Lights of Love Dec. 3rd, 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 McGough Oncology Unit at Jackson Hospital. For more information, call 293.6940. 49th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival Marks House Pike Road November 7th 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 2015 Capital City Christmas Parade The City of Montgomery would like to invite you to the 2015 Christmas Parade. The lineup will begin this year at the Capital steps to Fountain. The event will be held Friday, December 18th at 6:15 p.m. A limited number of parade entries will be accepted. Registration deadline for float sign up is November 25, 2015. All questions about a parade entry and parade festivities should be directed to Denise Welch at (334) 625.2118 or Visit www.montgomeryal.gov for entry forms. 2015 Capital City Tree Lighting December 1, Time to be announced. Located in front of City Hall 2015 Capital City Governors Tree Lighting December 4 at 5:15 p.m. - Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol Montgomery Parents I November 2015

“A Christmas Carol” at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ad on page 53)

Starting November 22-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 $30. Please visit us at www.asf.net.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Holiday Tree Lighting (ad on page 53)

November 21 at 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. The Alabama Shakespeare Festival will host it’s first holiday tree lighting event. Come join us as Santa parades through the park and lights a 40 ft. Christmas tree that will be on display throughout the holiday season. Guests will also get to enjoy free hot chocolate and donuts from Krispy Kreme as members of the Montgomery Chorale lead the crowd in a festive carol sing. In addition, Capitol City Carriage will offer free carriage rides through Blount Park. Cast members of ASF’s “A Christmas Carol” will also be on hand. For more information please visit website at www.asf.net.

Alabama Dance Theatre presents “Mistletoe” featuring favorite dances of Christmas Davis Theatre, Montgomery November 13 at 7:30 p.m., November 14-15 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.

Alabama Farmers Federation Presents Wynonna & The Big Noise Christmas Concert Sunday December 6, at 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center; Tickets prices: $67, $57, $47 and $37. Tickets can be purchased online or at the MPAC Box Office. Aldersgate UMC Christmas Events 6610 Vaughn Road Sunday, December 6, 4 p.m. The Great Christmas Cookie Caper. Christmas Cookie contest, Mission projects and concert. Sunday, December 13: “The Silence and the Sound”, 10:30 a.m. Lessons and Carols Service; A heart stirring presentation featuring the Chancel Choir, Children and Youth Choir’s and Orchestra. Wednesday December 24: Christmas Eve Service; 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Communion, Carols and Candlelight. For more information call (334) 272.6152.

Annual Holiday Light Festival The Montgomery Zoo

December 3-6, 10-13, 17-31; 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 2nd; 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 11th. Proceeds from the reception will benefit the Christchurch Pipe Organ Fund. Please visit www.christchurchxp.net for more details. Christmas Open House Saturday, December 12 from 9 a.m. until noon., Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, 919 Felder Avenue. Guest appearance from Santa Claus. Donations requested. Call 264.4222. Please visit us at www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net. Cruising With Santa December 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 Family Friendly; Boards at 6:30 p.m., Cruises 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., $46 per adult & $26 per child. This cruise will include dinner, entertainment and Santa!! Cash Bar. Please visit us at http://www. montgomeryal.gov.

Eastdale Mall (ad on page 3)

Santa’s Magical Arrival on Ice Friday, November 13, 7:00 p.m. Santa Claus will arrive in his magical sleigh during a spectacular ice show at the Eastdale Mall Ice Palace. Ice Palace skaters will perform whimsical vignettes featuring traditional Holiday tunes that will delight children of all ages. The Eastdale Express will be up and running, so make sure and catch a ride! www. eastdale-mall.com Thankgsiving Day Thursday, November 26, 8 – Midnight Eastdale Mall is the perfect place to work off all of that turkey and stuffing from Thanksgiving with your family! We will be open from 8pm - Midnight on Thanksgiving night, and the first 100 people to line up at Customer Service that night will receive a FREE $10 Eastdale Mall

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Gift Card and a FREE 6 Piece Nugget from Chick-Fil-A! In addition, everyone that registers at Customer Service that night will have a chance to win a $500 Eastdale Mall Gift Card! Drawing will be held at midnight, and it is not necessary to be present to win. Black Friday Friday, November 27. We’re opening bright and early Black Friday at 7am and hope to see you there! And to thank you for getting up so early and shopping with us, Eastdale Mall is giving away $25 Gift Cards for shoppers that spend $150 or more during the hours of 7am and Noon! In addition, every shopper will have the opportunity to win a $500 Eastdale Mall Gift Card by registering at Customer Service. Drawing will be held at NOON and it is not necessary to be present to win. Breakfast with Santa Benefiting Child Protect Saturday, December 12, 9:00 a.m. Santa always starts his day off with a good breakfast, and this year Eastdale Mall invites you to join him! Breakfast sponsored by Cinnabon is $5 per child and all proceeds will go to Child Protect. For more information, or to make reservations, please email Suzanna.wasserman@aronov.com. WLWI Giveaway Saturday, December 12, 2:00 p.m. I-92 and Eastdale Mall are giving you the chance to win a $2,500 Shopping Spree! From November 18 December 14, listen to WLWI 92.3 FM to qualify for a chance to win! Call Mall Information Desk, 277.7359, for more information.

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Eastern Hills Baptist Church presents 11th Annual “Hanging of the Green” Sunday, December 6 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 (in the Forest Hills neighborhood) (334) 272.0604 ext. 214 or www.ehbconline.com.

Frazer Memorial UMC presents Christmas Musical (ad on page 9)

Wesley Hall, December 13 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Frazer presents this community wide production, Christmas Theatre. Fun for the entire family! Please call (334) 272.8622 or www.frazerumc.org. “Candlelight Worship” December 24 , 5 p.m. in Sanctuary and 7 p.m. in Wesley Hall. Glenn Miller Holiday Concert featuring Airmen of Note December 17 at 7 p.m. Annual Glenn Miller Holiday Concert. This year’s performance is free to the public. Will be accepting canned food donations for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. This performance will be held at the Davis Theatre. Featuring The United States Air force Band, Airmen of Note, premier jazz ensemble, will perform holiday and Glenn Miller favorites. The Airmen of Note ensemble was created in 1950 to carry on the style and tradition of the Glenn Miller Army Air Forces Dance Band. 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 7, 14, and 21 from 5:30 until 7:30. 1142 South Perry Street. Two for the Holidays: The Long Christmas Dinner and The Santaland Diaries Cloverdale Playhouse, Montgomery’s Community Theater, December 10-20. THE LONG CHRISTMAS DINNER by Thornton Wilder. The Long Christmas Dinner–nine decades long–showcases the lives of several generations of the Bayard family, and some of their Christmas dinners. Wilder breaks the boundaries

of time as we measure it, and invites us to partake of “one long, happy Christmas dinner”-past, present and future. THE SANTALAND DIARIES by David Sedaris is based on the outlandish and true chronicles of David Sedaris’ experience as Crumpet the Elf in Macy’s Santaland display. This hilarious cult classic features comic encounters during the height of the holiday crunch. Please call the box office (334) 262-1530 or boxoffice@cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Holiday Open House @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

(ad on page 36) December 5th, 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 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 14th, 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Join the MSO for an evening of everyone’s seasonal favorites. To order tickets please call the Symphony office at (334) 240.4004. Huntingdon Annual Christmas Celebration Share some holiday cheer at Huntingdon College’s annual Community Christmas Celebration Thursday, December 3rd, on the Huntingdon Campus. The celebration includes: 6:30 p.m., the Arrival of Saint Nicholas, in front of Flowers Hall plus 6:45 p.m. Treelighting Ceremony and caroling, in front of Flowers Hall; 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.

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Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis December 5th; 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 us at http://JBRMontgomery.kintera.org/. Old Alabama Town Open House December 15th, 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 Date To be announced. Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church, 1550 East Washington St., will host its Annual Christmas Production, by the Youth Dept. Join them as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Call (334) 265.1807. Church of the Holy Comforter Santa’s Helpers 2911 Woodley Road, (334) 281.1337 Date to be announced. Free child care! Drop off your kids at Holy Comforter while you shop. We will have activities for them, feed them lunch, and help your children make ornaments. When you get back, we’ll help you wrap gift for free! Bring your camera for a stress-free picture with Santa. Ages 2-12. Reserva-

tions required.

First Baptist presents the The Joy Singers Christmas Program (ad on page 4)

Sunday, November 29 at 6:15 p.m. Main Sanctuary in First Baptist Church, 305 South Perry Street. Come join us JOY Singers Senior Adult Choir as the y lead us in worship celebrating Christ’s birth. Please call (334) 834.6310 or visit us at www. montgomeryfbc.org.

First Baptist presents The Living Christmas Tree (ad on page 4)

First Baptist Church, 305 South Perry Street December 11-13, Come join 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. A Montgomery Family Christmas with Keith and Krtistyn Getty: “Joy – An Irish Christmas” Presented by Baptist Health at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Thursday, December 3 at 7 p.m. Tickets: $25-$35. Tickets can be purchased online or at the MPAC Box Office. The Montgomery Chorale Holiday Performances Messiah Sing Along December 15th at the The Sanctuary of the Church of the Ascension. Tickets, please call (334) 265.3737 or visit www.montgomerychorale.org. Moscow Ballet Thursday, November 24 at 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Bring the whole family for the sweetest Christmas celebration of the season! Experience the exquisite artistry of world class Russian dancers, playful puppets and the unmatched splendor of hand crafted sets and costumes. Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is the Holiday tradition that brings the Christmas spirit to life! New York Times raves, “Real beauty!” and Los Angeles Times, “Bravura expertise!” Get your seats now for Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece at nutcracker.com. Tickets: $30 to $175. Tickets can be purchased online or at the MPAC Box Office. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

“The Nutcracker” by Montgomery Ballet December 11-13 Montgomery’s Favorite Holiday Tradition for over 40 years presented by The Montgomery Ballet. The world’s most famous Christmas ballet. A Montgomery tradition since 1976, this year’s production promises to delight all ages with brilliant dancing, beautiful scenery, and colorful costumes. All reserved seats. Tickets are $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 Lights Up!: Saturday, November 14 at 9:00 a.m. Joins us on Main Street for a parade celebrating Santa’s arrival at 9 a.m. followed by festive performance and carriage rides. That night at 6 p.m., watch as The Shoppes at EastChase light up with holiday spirit with a magical Christmas tree lighting and grand fireworks show! Sponsored by J Jill, Classic Buick GMC Cadillac and River Bank & Trust. For more information call 334279-6046 or visit www theshoppesateastchase.com.. After Thanksgiving Gift Card Giveaway: Friday, November 27. We’re giving away $3,000 in gift cards at the following times and locations. J Jill: Registration opens at 8 a.m. Drawings at 10 a.. and 11 a.m. at J. Jill. Pandora: Registration opens at noon. Drawing at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Versona Accessories: Registration opens at 2 p.m. Drawings at 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Find out more at www.theshoppesateastchase.com. Photos with Santa: Meet Santa at his outdoor workshop in front of Blackfinn. November 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 and December 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 19, 20 21, 22, 23 and 24. Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Starting November 14) Sundays from 1 – 6 p.m. (Starting November 15) Friday, December 11 from 5 – 8 p.m. *Pet Night Photo package prices vary. Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, December 12 & 19, from 8-10 a.m. Enjoy breakfast and visit with Santa for just $5 at Panera Bread! Reserve your spot by calling Guest Services at (334) 279.6046. Photo package prices vary. Select time between 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 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 5, 8:30-10:00 a.m. Bake yummy holiday cookies with the Big Guy himself for just $10 at Williams Sonoma! Reserve your spot by calling Guest Services at 334-2796046. Select times between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Carriage Rides: December 5, 12, 19 (FREE) Carriage Rides provided by Capitol City Carriage Service: “Tis the season to enjoy a seasonal horse drawn carriage ride around the property – Selected dates from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Located adjacent to Genghis Grill Salvation Army Angel Tree: November 12 Bring joy to an area family this year by selecting a child’s name from The Salvation Army Angel Tree, located at Guest Services next to Ware Jewelers. Purchase the requested gifts and return them unwrapped by December 10th. They will be delivered magically for the big day. For information call 334-279-6046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com. “Tis the Season!” and the “Alien Who Stole Christmas” at W.A. Gayle 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://mongomery.troy.edu/ planetarium for details.

Just for Kids

Sylvan Learning Center Holiday Camps

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(ad on page 51)

Robotics Camps Working with a buddy, your child will enjoy fun, handson projects building and animating LEGO® robots. Each session encourages creativity and imagination as kids brainstorm, build and experiment with amazing robots. It’s a wonderful way to develop critical STEM and problem solving skills. (Grades 4-6): Experiment with advanced STEM concepts, create and bring to life sophisticated robots based on themes such as Safari Adventures and Movie Stunt Sets Bot Lab (Grades 2-4): Stretch your imagination and skills by creating new robots based on fun themes, such as Superhero School and Dino World Coding Camps Your child will learn computer programming through engaging, hands-on projects like animating stories and creating video games. Plus, our technology platform is seriously cool… kids have thousands of backgrounds, props, characters and music to choose from to help bring their imaginations to life. Game Design Studio (grades 3-5): Get familiar with programming by designing and building 2D video games from start to finish, including animated players, music and sound effects. Game Design Studio (grades 6-8): Build a strong foundation of programming skills by building a different type of video game each day—complete with game logic and physics. Robotics Camps: Monday – Wednesday, November 23-25 (9:30 – 12:30) Safari Adventure! Monday – Wednesday, December 21-23 (9:30 – 12:30) Carnival Exploration! Coding Camps: Monday – Wednesday, November 2325 (9:30 – 12:30) Game Design Studio Monday – Wednesday, December 21-23 (9:30 – 12:30) Game Design Studio YMCA Camp Chandler Holiday Camps 1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, Alabama Christmas Camp Dec. 20-22 arriving on Dec 20th at 4-5 p.m. and departing Dec. 22nd at 4-5 p.m. This adventure is for old and new campers (ages 5-14), old and new staff, friends and relatives. Fee: $105 (members) and $120 (non-members), which includes t-shirt and camp store. Please call 229.0031 for more info. YMCA Goodtimes Holiday Childcare Call 279.6666 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 - 14. 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 nonmembers.. Call 229.0031 or log on to www.campchandler.org for more information on all camps.

Eclectic Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas December 1-8, Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. This event will take place at 1455 Claud Road Eclectic AL, 36024, 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.

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Christmas Music and Tree Lighting Millbrook Village Green Stage, December 3 at 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., Performances by school, church and group choirs and Christmas caroling for everyone. Refreshments for sale. The Spirit of Christmas Parade, “The Miracle on Main Street”, Dec 5th, 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.

East Memorial presents He Has Come For Us December 6th , 10 a.m. and at 6 p.m. East Memorial Baptist Church, 1320 Old Ridge Road, invites the Public to experience Admission is free. For more information contact the church office at (334) 365.7500 or visit website at www.eastmemorial.org.

Christmas Tree Lighting December 4th at 5:30 p.m. at Veterans Park.

Prattville Annual Christmas Concert by Prattville Community Chorus and Prattville Pops TBA.. Doster Center. This event is free and open to the public. Please check www.pratvilleal.gov under Events for updated information. City of Prattville Annual Christmas Parade Friday, December 4th at 7 p.m. Parade will begin that the Autauga County Courthouse. Theme: “Christmas Around the World”; 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 information. City of Prattville Christmas Tree Lighting Monday, November 30th 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

Mistletoe Market

Friday, November 6 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Saturday, November 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 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. Prattville’s Nutcracker Ballet Visions of sugarplums, swirling flowers and magical snowflakes will grace the stage at the Jefferson State Community College Performing Arts Center this December. The Nutcracker celebrates the power of human imagination, which children have in abundance. This production is performed by students of C.J.’s Dance Factory, The Prattville Ballet and by local children and adults in surrounding Autauga, Elmore and Chilton counties. Excerpts of the ballet will be performed at Prattville’s Mistletoe Market on Saturday, November 7th at 11:00. You can also bring the children to Prattville’s Holiday Open House on Sunday, November 22nd to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and other characters for a photo opportunity between 1 and 4:00 p.m. Where: Jeff State Performing Arts Center When: Saturday, December 12th, Time: 2:00 Kingdom of the Sweets (matinee for children) and 7 pm. full production. General admission: $12.00 for more information call: 334-467-8603.

Holiday Parade December 5 at 10 a.m.. Begins at Tallassee Church of Christ and goes thru Central Blvd down to Barnette Blvd. and end at Tallassee Highschool. For more information please call (334) 283.5151.

Lake Martin/Alex City Christmas Market Saturday, December 5, 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 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 information, call (334) 857.2021. Hometown Christmas Parade One of East Alabama’s largest parades featuring elaborate floats, dancing groups, marching bands, horse-riding clubs and Santa Claus highlight. December 7; 6-7 p.m. Downtown Alexander City. Please call (256) 329.9227. www.alexandercity.org

Wetumpka Charis Crafters 17th Annual Christmas Show and Tasting Fair November 12th-14th. Wetumpka Civic Center. Thursday “Preview Show”, 4-7 p.m., Friday, November 13th from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 14th

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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.

Christmas on the Coosa (ad on page 65)

December 12th: 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 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. City of Wetumpka Tree Lighting December 1st, in Gold Star Park. Photos with Santa and hot cocoa. Please visit www.cityofwetumpka.com for more information. “Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas” At the Wetumpka Depot The Wetumpka Depot Players will present Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas Monday, November 30- Friday December 5 at 9am, 10:30 and noon daily. Based on the book of the same name, this production is a must-see for Fancy Nancy fans. Call 868.1440 or email kmeanor@wetumpkadepot. com for availability. The Depot Theatre is located at 300 S Main Street in the heart of historic downtown Wetumpka. Nativity and Luminary Open House December 4th, Downtown Wetumpka from 6 p.m. Please visit www.cityofwetumpka.com. New Year’s Eve Party December 31st behind the City Administrative Bldg. 9 p.m. until midnight. Fireworks, DJ and a whole lot of fun! Wetumpka Christmas Decoration Contest December 8th; 6:00 p.m. Businesses and residential. There will be judging to those who have submitted applications. Prizes will be awarded.

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 5th. Visit www.eufaulapilgrimage.com. Victorian Christmas Sample turn-of-the-century desserts, sip hot chocolate or mulled cider and try your hand at making traditional Christmas decorations. December 13th; 1:00-4:00p.m. (334) 794.3452. Free www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Calera Santa Claus Special Train Ride The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum (ad on page 67) 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 28th, December 5th, 12th, & 19th. For tickets and info call (800) 943.4490 or order online at www. hodrrm.org. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

North Pole Express Train Rides

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum (ad on page 67)

Fridays, Nov. 20, 27, December 4,11 and 18 Saturdays, Nov. 21, 28, December 5, 12, and 19 Sundays, Nov. 22, 29, and Dec. 6 and 13 Please visit our website www.hodrrm.org for times. “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your journey begins. Through the dark night, the magical train speeds to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves board the train to visit with everyone, so be sure to bring your camera! You’ll enjoy chocolate milk and cookies and sing Christmas carols along with the live musician, Mr. Jim. Listen to a special Christmas story

and receive a Christmas gift.

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 11-13 and 18-20 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 miss. (205)322.4300. www.alabamaballet.org. Admission charged. Samford University Wright Center. Breakfast in Santa’s Workshop at the McWane Science Center Two dates to choose from: December 5 or 12th; 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 Sound, Water, Laser and Light Show DeSoto Caverns November 1-January 4. 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 4-8. Wednesday-Saturday 10:00am- 8:00pm; Sunday, noon until 5:00pm. The largest indoor arts, crafts, and gifts show in the south, this show draws exhibitors from over 30 states with products like clothing, jewelry, food, decorations and much, much more. 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 20. 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 Brrrr! When the weather outside is frightful, McWane

is so delightful! November 21-January 10; 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

Out of State/Georgia Annual Fantasy In Lights Callaway Gardens The most spectacular holiday light and sound show in the south begins November 13- Jan. 2! 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-thanlife 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 14, 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. Atlanta New Year’s Eve Peach Drop 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.. Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Snow Mountain is Atlanta’s first snow park! The 2015/2016 season opens November 21, 2015 – February 28, 2016. 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-tobe-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 7-January 3. 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. mp

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Some of you know that I am expecting, and we are beyond thrilled in the Handey house! Recently, while looking on Pinterest for a few fashion pregnancy styles, I found cute ideas, but I was somewhat disappointed about all the tiny little models in those cute form-fitting maternity clothes. Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s awesome that some women can stay so fit and skinny during pregnancy. Call it good genes or good luck...not sure what to call it. Either way they look great! I’m one that will probably gain weight in my stomach...of course, plus my rear and thighs. That’s pretty normal. And yes, I’m still working out, but it’s just not in my DNA and that’s okay. We all know the goal is to have a healthy baby and to show off that proud baby bump. Let’s be real when it comes to pregnancy fashion, especially for all of us moms who aren’t going to be stick thin with a tummy. I want to share a few tips on fashion for not only our growing bellies, but possibly our growing back end, thighs, arms, and chest. Enjoy, as I break down the do’s of a fashion forward pregnancy wardrobe.

Find comfort. You can have great style, but allow yourself to be comfortable. No need to squeeze into those tight fitting clothes. And

if you are expecting the second, third or fourth time around then we all know we are growing much quicker. Comfort is always the key when juggling other kiddos, wife duties, work, and the like. Think comfort meets stylish.

Find a trend. Find a trend that works for you. Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t rock out the latest trends. My favorite trend while pregnant is the Boho look. This look seems to have a lot of give when it comes to loose-fitting, but stylish clothing. And the best part about Boho is that you can wear it into the fall and winter with an extra little layer. Find what’s comfortable for your personal style when it comes to trends.

Layer. I absolutely love to layer. Layering is the perfect way of changing up your style and camouflaging those parts of your body that may be growing along with the tummy. Keep your layers light in the summer and heavy in the fall and winter.

Know how to style everything. This is a great way to gain confidence and enjoy your pre and post pregnancy. Even if it’s just throwing on a little makeup and fixing up your hair. Add a pop of color in your nails, or maybe try a new lipstick.

Accessorize. Accessories go a long way. I know we all get to a point of not wanting to buy one more piece of maternity clothing until that baby is born. So purchase fun and trendy accessories to change up your style. This gives a small change without the stress of spending money and time on more clothes.

Enjoy your changing body. I think once we embrace the changes our body will be going through in order to keep this little miracle healthy, then we can enjoy styling our bodies. Prepare yourself for the little extra weight before and after pregnancy. Most importantly focus on the health and well-being of the unborn child, while looking and feeling good in the process.

Research. I have researched my pre and post pregnancy style. Although it’s been a little harder to find what fits my shape, it has allowed me to be a bit more creative with what I have in my wardrobe. You can be a little more open-minded when dressing your changing body. Take those ideas from Pinterest and fashion magazines and use what you have hanging in your closet. We all have a few items that are made a bit bigger. Work with what you have until it’s time to shop for pre/post pregnancy pieces. 69

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 and read her blogs at www.centsiblysouthern.com.

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A Page in a Book Alternative Alphabets Alphabet books are common fixtures in the literary landscape of children. The ‘A is for apple, B is for ball’ formats are popular and usually feature recognizable objects from kids’ environments to introduce the alphabet sounds. But the building blocks of our language offer much broader opportunities for artistic treatments that go beyond the customary ‘ABC’ fare. The following titles explore and celebrate the alphabet through captivating alternative avenues!

ALPHA

by Isabelle Arsenault (Candlewick Press) Based on the NATO phonetic alphabet, this title features the words that military branches, first responders and relief organizations use to clarify letters as they are spoken. For example, the word ‘five’ would be spelled ‘Foxtrot - India – Victor – Echo’ for clarification. Each letter in this book is part of a two-page spread that features an image with connections to its NATO code. Sometimes the letter/word connection to the artwork is obvious and other times it’s obscure. But always the pictures inspire thoughtful exploration and conversation between readers. Part ABC primer, part art book, ALPHA is a Tango – Oscar – Papa choice for the alphabet book shelf.

The Numberlys

by William Joyce & Christina Ellis (Atheneum / Simon & Schuster) In a monochromatic world of no nonsense numbers, everything adds up and numerals are the name of the game. But in a place without words, there can be no books, or colors, or even pizza. So five friends in this numberly city join forces to create something...more. They begin to manipulate the numbers around them to build new shapes that will enrich their bland and orderly world. With Art Deco sensibilities, the rich sepia-tone edge-to-edge illustrations demand study as color is slowly introduced and the evolution of the alphabet breathes life into the world formerly dictated by numbers. With endless secrets to discover in the art, The Numberlys can be counted on for repeat reading.

8: An Animal Alphabet

by Elisha Cooper (Orchard / Scholastic Press) While alphabet books that feature animals are not new to the ABC theme, this title from Elisha Cooper offers a refreshing challenge to readers. Introducing an unparalleled menagerie of creatures, each page dedicated to a letter of the alphabet features a menagerie of creatures whose name begins with the letter – including eight representations of one animal in particular. In addition to learning about more uncommon animals, readers are also encouraged to explore counting on each page to find the ‘eight’ among the many. With a fine glossary at the end of the book, this animal alphabet is a choice title to both reinforce alphabet sounds as well as introduce cool trivia about more obscure creatures around the world.

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

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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ADT Presents 2015 “Mistletoe” Performance

The Alabama Dance Theatre will open its 29th season with Montgomery’s holiday production of “MISTLETOE,” which will be performed November 13-15 at The Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. More than 90 dancers and artists participate in this year’s elaborate production which features “Favorite Dances of Christmas” and “The Messiah” with live music. One of ADT’s signature pieces, “The Messiah”, choreographed by Amelie Hunter to George Frideric Handel’s famous score, returns by popular demand to the Davis Theatre Stage. It will be accompanied by the Montgomery Chorale Ensemble and a small orchestra under the new direction of Dr. James Seay. “Favorite Dances of Christmas”, a collage of dances set to beautiful Christmas carols and songs, will feature the return of audience favorites including “First Noel,” “I Saw Three Ships,” “We Three Kings,” “Sleighride” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Other favorites returning to the stage are “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” and “Down To the River to Pray.” New “Favorite Dances” will include Janie Alford’s “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” and “Mary Did You Know?” choreographed by Sara Sanford.

Performances are Friday, November 13, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, November 14, at 2:30 p.m.; and Sunday, November 15, at 2:30 p.m. at The Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Tickets range in price from $15 to $30. All tickets are discounted. Tickets are $15 for children 12 and under. Reserved and general admission tickets are available at www. alabamadancetheatre.com. For more info, call (334) 241-2800.

** The Alabama Dance Theatre, along with Troy University of Montgomery, will host a special open dress rehearsal in honor of our Military on Thursday, November 12, at 7 p.m. at the Davis Theatre. The performance is open to all active duty, retirees, reserve and national guard military personnel and their families who present a valid government military ID card at the door. Tickets are available at the door the night of the performance and at Maxwell/Gunter ITT. **

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Sterling Little Miss Pageants To Be Held November 21

Girl Scouts Donate Cookies to Montgomery Area Food Bank

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama is known for building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. By donating leftover Girl Scout cookies from the sale to the Montgomery Area Food Bank, they show just one more example of how Girl Scouts give back to their community. The annual Girl Scout Cookie Sale teaches girls life-long skills, such as goalsetting, decision-making, money management, public speaking and business ethics. At the end of the sale, troops decide where to donate the left over cases of cookies, which in turn, teaches them another way of giving back to their community. Following the 2015 Cookie Sale, Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama was able to donate more than 2,800 pounds of cookies to the Montgomery Area Food Bank. MAFB has an extended reach to an estimated 330,000 individuals living near or below the Federal Poverty Line. Meghan Cochrane, director of PR and marketing for GSSA, said, “Donating Girl Scout Cookies to the food bank allows us to live by our motto of doing a good turn daily, while helping further the MAFB mission of feeding hope across Alabama. We are proud to contribute another year of positively affecting the lives of others.” Selling cookies and giving back with generosity is all in days’ work for Girl Scouts. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

The 6th annual Sterling Miss Christmas Pageants will be held Saturday, November 21, at the Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall, located at 511 N. Memorial Drive., in Prattville. This pageant series is for girls who live in Alabama, age newborn to 18 years, with seven age categories: Baby Miss (newborn to 23 mos.), Tiny Miss (24-35 mos.), Petite Miss (3-5 yrs.), Little Miss (6-8 yrs.), Pre-Teen Miss (9 -11 yrs.), Jr. Teen (12 -14 yrs.) Teen Miss (15-18 yrs.). The pageants will begin at 2:30 p.m. The deadline for applications is Friday, November 16. Applications may be found online at www.SterlingMiss.org, in Prattville at the Bridal Boutique & Tux Shoppe, in Clanton at Brenda’s Formals and in Wetumpka at A Touch of Class. Contestants up to 5 years old may wear a long or short pageant dress or heirloom dress. For ages 6 and up, formal wear is a LONG pageant gown. No other outfits are required for this competition. Optional categories include: Most Photogenic, Most Beautiful Dress, Most Beautiful Smile, Most Beautiful Hair, Most Beautiful Eyes and Best Personality. A People’s Choice crown will also be awarded in each age category. Collect votes from family and friends at $1 per vote for the contestant. Votes will be collected at and throughout the pageant. No double crown winners. The money collected benefits Children’s Miracle Network. “Space is limited, so I would suggest sending in the applications early for those who want to compete,” said Director DiDi Henry. She also noted that the November date is scheduled so that winners will have time to enter area Christmas parades before they fill up. “So many of the local parades are held shortly after Thanksgiving, so we want to give our queens time to prepare for all of the upcoming parades.” Check in opens at 1:30 p.m. for all age categories. The entry fee for the event is $40. Optional categories are from $5 to $15 per category. Checks should be made payable to: Sterling Miss Pageants, P.O. Box 763, Montgomery, Alabama 36102. For more info, applications and the Frequently Asked Question fact sheet, visit www. SterlingMiss.org or call (334) 313-5444. Like the Sterling Miss Christmas Pageant page on Facebook to get all the latest information.

Family Karate Center News

The students and instructors of Family Karate Center were the special guests of Maxwell Air Force Base’s National Night Out October 6. The festivities included bouncy houses, refreshments, booth displays with law enforcement officers, and many free prizes given away from The Family Karate Center. Family Karate Center youth and adults led child abduction prevention and Bully Busters demonstrations. Call 220-9319 or 277-4911 for more information about Family Karate Center. Members of the two- to- four-year-old Tiny Tiger class are shown demonstrating Stranger Danger for Maxwell Air Force Base.

Pink and Pearls for Girls Hold Hoedown Night Pink ‘n’ Pearls for Girls welcomed more than 60 families with a great big “Howdy” at the Hoedown Parent Orientation Night. Children participated in games and activities while enjoying western food. Parents had a chance to mix and mingle with Pink and Pearls mentors and volunteers. For additional information on how to join us, please call Grace Harvey at (334) 5615091. 72

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Kicking for Christ Wins the AFYI 2015 Center Stage Youth Talent Show

The Kicking for Christ karate demonstration team from Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy of Montgomery won first place during the Alabama Family Youth Initiative Family Unity Dinner held October 5 at the Embassy Suites Hotel. Cash prizes were awarded to the top three winners, who were all selected to perform at the “Walk in My Shoes” event that will be held on Veterans Day also at the Embassy Suites Hotel. If you are interested in having “Kicking for Christ” to perform at your event, organization, or youth ministry, please contact David Johnson at (334) 284-2344. Shown from left are Briana Jackson (choreographer), Sydney Talbert, Booker Pitts, Christopher Wilson, Kamiya Moten, Jakori Hollinger, Kavian Mitchell, Kamille Moten, Hezekiah Hampton, David Johnson (instructor), and kneeling, Leland Talbert and Tyler Bell.

To share news about your group’s special events, e-mail editor@montgomeryparents.com by the 12th of each month.

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Prattville Dancer Chosen for ‘Dream Role’

Portraying the role of Clara in The Nutcracker is an aspiration of many young ballerinas. Lauren Miers, a fifth-grader at Autauga Academy, has been cast to play the role of Clara in Prattville’s Tri-County Nutcracker Ballet this year. Miers has been dancing since she was four years old and studies ballet at C.J.’s Dance Factory. She is the daughter of Gil and Kim Miers of Prattville. The Tri-County Nutcracker Ballet performances are Saturday, December 12, at 2 and 7 p.m. at Jeff State Community College Performing Arts Center in Clanton.

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According to a study from LiveScience.com, hovering or over-protective parents are more likely to turn out neurotic, more dependent adult children. “(College) students with helicopter parents tended to be less open to new ideas and actions, as well as more vulnerable, anxious, and self-conscious, among other factors, compared with their counterparts with more distant parents,” the study reported. Dr. Ed Christophersen, a psychologist at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, says hovering becomes problematic if the child isn’t learning key life skills like good sleep habits, independent play and self-calming skills. “But, because, in my experience many hovering parents hover in order to keep themselves from getting stressed by seeing their child distressed, the odds are they will not allow their child the opportunity to learn the life skills,” Christophersen says. To raise children to become self-reliant, independent adults, Christophersen urges parents to instill four important life skills.

Good sleep habits. Avoid co-sleep-

Social skills. Once your child enters toddlerhood, encourage cooperation and sharing through parallel play, in which two children play independently with the same group of toys, and eventually social play skills, in which children play together with the same toys. In tandem with healthy sleep habits and social skills, establish a system that helps children learn step-by-step independence. “Set them up for success when they are young and then back off,” says Mary Jennings, a kindergarten teacher who has taught for 34 years. The night before a school day, for example, help your children pack their backpacks and have them set out their clothes. Assign specific household chores to help them build a skill set and a sense of responsibility. Cues and prompts like index cards or color-coded family calendars are simple reminders. “Consistency is key. Don’t give up too soon. It takes 21 days to change a habit,” Jennings adds. Recalling how difficult it was to drop off her two middle-schoolers for their first day in a new school, Holly Clark

understands the temptation to hover. “I felt bad for them since they did not know anybody, but I also knew the last thing they needed was their mommy walking in with them,” she says. Clark gives her six children, ranging in age from 2 to 15 years, the space to make age-appropriate decisions and learn personal responsibility. “If we see that they may head down the wrong path, we will step in and intervene,” she says. With her husband in the military, the family moves frequently. To get everyone off on the right foot, she and her husband make it a priority to select a good school district and neighborhood. “When the children...go to college, we will not be there so we need to let them have some responsibility for themselves now so they will not be overwhelmed when we are not there.” For additional parenting tips, check out Christophersen’s book, Parenting that Works: Building Skills that Last a Lifetime. mp

Christa Hines is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.

ing with your baby (514 children were smothered in the past 10 years due to cosleeping with a parent according to Christophersen). After the age of one, establish a short bedtime routine that includes brushing teeth, bath, bedtime stories and prayer or quiet talk time. Studies show, children who can fall asleep on their own and stay asleep throughout the night are more likely to do well in school.

Separation skills. The first day of preschool or daycare is often stressful for both parents and their children. Your child may cry or “press back into you. Don’t pick them up,” Christophersen advises. Allow your child time to adjust and soon it’s not so anxiety-provoking. Learning healthy separation skills promotes a sense of self-confidence and the ability to transition more easily from one situation to another. Independent play. Children as young as 18 to 24 months can learn to play by themselves for extended periods of time. Unstructured playtime not only provides children with a quiet outlet from a busy day, it nurtures creativity, decision-making and self-reflection. 75

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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. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. This is a general overview of Alabama history in our museum galleries led by one of our staff or experienced docents. Stay tuned 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-yearolds 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. Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with wellknown artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters. Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and communitybased organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@bellsouth.net. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 4579254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. Central Alabama Contra Dancers Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and entire families are welcome. All levels of experience - including no experience. Dancing is on 1st and 3rd Fridays from 7-9 p.m. at the MASDA building, 2200 Popular St. For more info, visit www.contralines.com or email info@contralines.com. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. 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 ac-

cess 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. The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 3494235 or visit www.chomonline.org. 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.

November2015 and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www. blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown. com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www. touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/ person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. 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

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

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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. Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops and Parties for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, 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. 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. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www. firstwhitehouse.org. Friday Night Hoops Attention students in 5th through 12th grades: Are you looking for something to do on Friday nights? Get together with your friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org. 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,

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 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

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Calendar/Support Groups 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 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 classes are November 18 and December 9 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info. YMCA 7 to 11 Club Calling all children ages 7 to 11 for this fun, free event. While Mom and Dad are working out, join us for games, arts & crafts, service projects and more. Earn special beads for participation and try to break records for superior achievements. Monthly special events will be hosted as well. Check with your YMCA center or visit ymcamontgomery.org for more details.

Classes

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Caring For Your Newborn Helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Partners are encouraged to attend. $20 fee per couple. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week evening series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, Caesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and newborn characteristics are included. A maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. This class is $60 per couple. Space is limited. Registration is required.

Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more information. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp Fast-paced Saturday class including the same information offered in our weekly series in a compressed format. Maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. Fee is $60 per couple and includes 2 box lunches. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more information. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. 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 the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors, but this class is not a certification class. $10 fee per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes 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

November2015 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 Baptist Medical Center East class provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. $20 per couple. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Expectant moms should register for classes by the fifth month of pregnancy for best selection as class space is limited. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Second Saturday of each month, 10 a.m.-noon. NICU Conference Room, Baptist Medical Center South. Take the main hospital elevators to the 2nd floor. Go left off the elevator. Take an immediate left down the first hallway you come to (which only goes to the left). The conference room is the last door on your right at the end of the hallway, just before the back entrance to the NICU. This class is free to the community. Moms in their second trimester are welcome. Those that qualify will receive incentives. No children please. This is a learning environment. Call (334) 286-2829 to register. 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 Take a break from your desk and relieve stress with some slow flow yoga at Old Alabama Town! 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 Molton South Building. Enter through the Rose House, located on Columbus St. between N. Hull and Decatur. Parking is available along Decatur and N. Hull. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days) Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. Pay by cash or check payable to Juliet Thomas. Blocks will be provided. 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) 2404500 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 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

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Calendar/Support Groups 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 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. 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. However, the group will meet in room 8253 in November. For more information, call Monica Russell at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@ childrensaid.org. Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Audrey Derevenko at (205) 943-5343 or e-mail adereven@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups. com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Cancer Support

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

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

Divorce Support

Boundaries Study for singles meets each Tuesday through November 24 from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. This study helps singles learn to set boundaries with emotions and help avoid the harmful behavior of others. For more info, call the Singles office at 495-6386 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org. DivorceCare will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. You will experience the GriefShare group as an oasis in the midst of a difficult season of your life. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays starting August 22 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Divorce Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays through November 24 from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call (334) 495-6386 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K), Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays through December 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. This group is for children ages 5 and up and helps children of all ages heal from the pain of their parents’ separation and divorce. Call (334) 495-6386 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org 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

November2015 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. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. 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 Rm. 3105. Call 2728622 for more info. GriefShare will begin meeting weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. You will find a warm, caring environment for your journey through grief and loss. You will not be left alone to deal with all the grief issues in your life. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. GriefShare, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. 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. Hospice of Montgomery (HOM) Grief Support Thursdays in October beginning Oct. 8 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. The group will meet at Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. The Grief Support Group is open to the community. HOM’s bereavement program is a voluntary one offered to family members and loved ones of HOM’s patients who want this type of support. Grief education programs are also avail-

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Calendar/Support Groups

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able to individuals living within Hospice of Montgomery’s service area. For more info, call (334) 279-6677 or visit www.hospiceofmontgomery.org. 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.

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Homeschool Support

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

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 272-8622. The Renaissance Spirit Group (an adult day group for Alzheimer’s patients in their early to middle stages) meets each Thursday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Registration is required. For more info, contact Nancy McLain at (334) 233-2139. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA. Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. It will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. This Christ-centered recovery will provide a safe place to share and to heal. You will also experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” will be led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Depression/Bipolar Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 272-8622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com. Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 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.glutenfreemont-

gomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (2712280) for details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. 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, normally meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. However, the group will meet on the 3rd Thursday in November due to Thanksgiving. It will not meet in December. For more 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. 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

Circle of Moms Club Meets Nov. 2, 16, & 30; also Dec. 14 & 28 from 11:30 a.m.1 p.m. at UAB School of Medicine Basement Auditorium, adjacent to Baptist Medical Center South. Bring your baby, your questions, and hang out with other moms and moms-to-be. Learn from each other and have a great time at this free breastfeeding club. A lactation nurse will be at each meeting to offer expert help. A baby scale will also be available to monitor the weight of your baby. Light lunch provided, and door prizes! For more info, call (334) 286-2829 or e-mail llrambo@baptistfirst.org. D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. 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 Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Our leaders are experienced breastfeeding mother volunteers who have completed an accreditation program through LLL International. At monthly meetings mothers share their questions and concerns as well as the benefits and joys of breastfeeding. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail us at LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www. llli.org/groups/@llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on

November2015 Facebook facebook.com/LLL.Montgomery.AL. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc. org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http://montgomerymultiplesclub. org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? 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. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/ MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? 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. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Redland Baptist Church in Wetumpka. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of every month from 9-11 a.m. during the school year. We will also have scheduled play dates and mom’s nights out. Women can come just as they are to build friendships, be encouraged by each other and gain practical parenting strategies. Moms get together to share food, laugh, and hear inspiring speakers. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. In a MOPS group, you experience authentic community, mothering support, personal growth and spiritual hope, all to help you be the best mom possible. For more info, please call (334) 567-8649 or visit www.mops.org/redlandmops.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.

Single Parents Support

Single and Parenting! A new group for single moms meeting every Tuesday through December 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. for hope, encouragement, guidance and parenting ideas. For info, 495-6386 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering

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Calendar/Support Groups single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook—SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids) for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2016 pageant date TBA. Visit www. alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo. com for more info. 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): This is a FREE program through Family Guidance Center of Alabama and a partnership with the Alabama Healthy Marriage and Relationship Initiative (AHMREI). LIFT provides relationship and marriage education and real-world skills through fun, distinctive workshops, information & referral services, ongoing support, and the LIFT library. Singles, non-married parents, stepfamilies, premarital couples, and married couples can all enjoy the benefits of LIFT workshops: ELEVATE blends 7 practical skills with an understanding of the physiology of human interaction (the heart-brain-behavior connection). Couples can get skills to help manage stress and reduce conflict. Learn how to relax, get to know each other more deeply, and make your relationship something you look forward to every day! In Relationship Smarts (RS+), participants learn what true love really is, the role of “brain chemicals,” how to build healthy relationships, how to handle breakups, the “red flags” to domestic violence, relationship skills, and so much more. Written for 9th through 12th graders, RS+ is a solid, basic curriculum for adults too. Date Nights! is a program for couples that are in committed relationships. Using the Basic Training curriculum, participants get the unique opportunity to enjoy a date together at a local restaurant- ON US! Topics include benefits of a healthy marriage, communication, surrender, problem-solving as a team, and intimacy. How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette) is a great program for singles and daters. Participants learn the

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

technical definition of a “jerk” and how to spot one, how to build a healthy relationship, and the five things to know in order to be able to predict what someone would be like in marriage. For Couples Only is a must-have for any couple in any stage of their relationship. Using the Mastering the Mysteries of Love curriculum, couples go through intensive training in communication, conflict management, and problem-solving. Smart Steps for Stepfamilies was created for couples where at least one partner is not the biological parent of at least one child in the family. This curriculum is useful for all stepfamily couples regardless of whether the couple is married. A children’s component is often available. Contact Tonya Rogers at 270-4100, trogers@familyguidancecenter.org, or www.familyguidancecenter.org today! Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

This Month

Sunday, November 1

Special Needs Skate -- Also November 15 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com. Alabama National Fair -- Through November 8 Midway rides, livestock and cooking competitions. Special discounts throught the week. Live entertainment during the week includes Anthony Hamilton November 1, The Heritage Brothers November 6 and Lynyrd Skynyrd November 7 at 7 p.m. For details and more info, visit www.alnationalfair.org or call (334) 272-6831.

Wednesday, November 4

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. 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. Alabama Frontier Days -- Through November 7 Using Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park as its historical backdrop, Alabama Frontier Days focuses on demonstrating frontier life in the southeast during the period 1700-1820. The public can experience this living history as frontier trades and crafts are demonstrated by living historians period correct costumes. The event takes place over four days, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Admission: $8/adult and $7/child. For more info, visit: http://fttoulousejackson.org or call (334) 567-3002 or visit fttoulousejackson.org.

Thursday, November 5

In the Arts: A Professional Event for Teens, cohosted by the Muses and BTW 6-7:30 p.m. In partnership with Booker T. Washington Magnet High, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is planning its third annual arts-related career night for teens. Professionals from community arts organizations and creative businesses will showcase their work and answer questions about their education and career paths. Each presenter will have a station in the Rotunda, and teens and family members can visit as many as they like. Please contact Alice Novak at anovak@mmfa.org or (334) 2404362. 6th Annual Farm-to-Fork Food Invasion Celebrate the best in local food and drink at EAT South’s event set for 6-8:30 p.m. at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead! This year’s event features the first-ever Invading Chefs duel, with Chef Miguel Figueroa of The A&P

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Social and Kudzu Noodle Bar and Chef Leonardo Maurelli III of The Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center. These long-time friends will join together to create a fantastic fall feast, cooked and served at the revitalized Hampstead Farm. Tickets are $45. For more info, e-mail info@hampsteadliving.com or visit www.foodinvasion.com/. Theatre AUM Presents Helvetica-- Through November 15 By Will Coleman. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. ThursdaySaturday 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.

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Friday, November 6

Miss Alabama USA and Miss Alabama Teen Usa Pageants -- Through November 7 7:30-10 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The preliminary competition will be held on Friday, and the finals will be held on Saturday. Tickets can be purchased online or at the MPAC Box Office. For more info, call (334) 481-5100 or visit www.missalabamausa.com. Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also November 13 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/first child; $15 per sibling. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walk-ins accepted until maximum number is reached. Visit www.unitedgymstarsandcheer. com for more info. Friday Night Hoops -- Also November 20 Attention students in 5th through 12th grades: Get together with your friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org.

Saturday, November 7

Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org. Capitol 10 Miler 7:30-11 a.m. Help Centerpoint Fellowship Church thank our military & first responders! All proceeds of this event will be given in support of Operation: Heal Our Patriots, a Project of Samaritan’s Purse. Come join a fun and exciting course through the historic districts of Montgomery, including downtown, Oak Park, Cloverdale, and the campuses of Alabama State University and Huntingdon College. Fleet Feet Sports Montgomery will direct the race that starts and ends at the Alabama State Capitol Building. The registration fee for the 10 Miler is $10. The event is free for all active or retired military and first responders (you must still register). Registration is open at www.active.com. Veterans 5K Freedom Run/Walk 8:30-11 a.m. WVAS-FM Radio Station is partnering with Jimmy John’s to host this event. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Adults and youth of all ages and all branches of military, whether active or retired, are encouraged to participate in this event honoring and supporting veterans in the River Region. The Run-Walk will begin at Jimmy John’s on Carter Hill Road and wind its way through the campus of Alabama State University and Old Cloverdale. Additional information, including vendor information and entry fees, is available by contacting Reletta McGhee, WVAS Community and Public Affairs Coordinator, at (334) 229-5074 or via e-mail at rmcghee@alasu.edu. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and

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Calendar/Support Groups tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “build a Veterans’ Day jet.” In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free. Santuck Flea Market Outdoor flea market features booths with arts, crafts, antiques, novelties, imports, food and more. Free admission with free parking available. For more info, call (334) 567-7400. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Preregistration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/ events to register or for more info. Alabama Nature Center Weekends -- Also November 14, 21 and 28 Guests are encouraged to arrive by 10 a.m. to enjoy the first of the day’s activities. Take a look around the the Discovery Hall, enjoy the movie specials in the theater, and explore the trails. Vending machines will provide snacks/ drinks. Gift shop will be open. November 7 is Lanark Hike/ Animal Encounter; November 14 is Art of Baitcasting; November 21 is Go Fishing; and November 28 is Migrating Birds of Alabama.

Sunday, November 8

Trekking through the Past: Landmarks Foundation Fall 2015 Walking Tours 2 p.m. at Oakwood Cemetery, Eastern Ridge. Join Jeff Benton as he launches the first tour of the Eastern Ridge. You will visit graves of Civil War heroes, a Union burial plot, the Jewish Eternal Rest area, the graves of Hank and Audrey Williams, and many more! Enter cemetery at Columbus St. gate and park along the road at the top of the hill. $10 tour admission, free to Landmarks Foundation members. Call 240-4517 or 240-4500 for more information and to reserve a spot! Montgomery Symphony Orchestra’s Fellowship Series The Montgomery Symphony Association presents its two Artists in Residence, violinist Nadir Khashimov and cellist Natalie Helm, in a six-concert series known as the Fellowship Series. These artists-in-residence will be joined by a number of guest artists on these exciting chamber music programs. All concerts will be presented in the Wilson Auditorium located in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and will feature Nadir Khashimov on violin and Barno Nishanova on piano. Tickets for the six concert series are $85 for adults. Single tickets are available for $17 for adults. Students age six and over are admitted free. For more info, call (334) 240-4004 or visit www.montgomerysymphony.org/fellowship-series/. Veterans’ Appreciation Week -- Through November 14 Join the Montgomery Zoo in thanking the proud men and women of the armed forces. During Veterans Day Week, all veterans, active military personnel and immediate family members 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. Thank you for your service and dedication. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com.

Tuesday, November 10

VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm 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. Spice Up Your Marriage: Date Night 7 p.m. First Baptist Church, Montgomery. Dr. Gary Chapman, world-renowned speaker and author of The 5 Love Languages, will headline “Spice Up Your Marriage: Date Night,” an event designed to equip and encourage married couples in a fun, engaging evening of music, comedy and inspiration. Joining Chapman for this unique event will be Michael O’Brien, former lead singer of Newsong, as well as national speakers and humorists, Jeff & Debby McElroy. Tickets: $22.50. Visit www.foreverfamilies.com/ministries/marriage/spice-upyour-marriage/.

Wednesday, November 11

Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. 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/. Veterans Day Event & Holiday The City of Prattville will join the American Legion Post 122, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1349, in sponsoring a wreath-laying ceremony at the Autauga County Courthouse at 11 a.m. to officially mark Veterans Day. Veterans Day Parade and Concert The 6th Annual Montgomery River Region Veterans Day Parade will take place beginning at 11 a.m. in front of the State Capitol and will proceed down Monroe/Lawrence. Following the parade, the Capitol Sounds Band will perform inside the City Hall Auditorium beginning at noon - rain or shine. For more info, call (334) 625-2100. or visit www.funinmontgomery.com/announcements/ veterans-day-parade-and-concert. 7th annual “Musical Tribute to Veterans” Hosted by Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka 6:30 p.m. This year’s concert will be dedicated to the memory of Solomon Seay, a long-time and dedicated member of Trinity Episcopal Church Wetumpka. He served in the US Army in the early 1950s but his more notable service was as a civil rights activist and attorney in the River Region. The event will honor all who have served in the United States armed forces at present or in the past. An outstanding cast of performers will entertain this year: Huntingdon Harmony from Huntingdon College in Montgomery, directed by Dr. Jennifer Canfield; our own local celebrity Jessica Meuse from Slapout who placed 4th in last year’s American Idol; outstanding organist Randy Foster of Montgomery; percussionist Robert Glasscock of Tallassee, the pianist trio of Trinity (Charlotte Henderson, Barbara Davis and Ebba Dunn); and other area talent. The Boy Scouts of America Troop 50 of Wetumpka will post the colors to open the event and present US flags to WW II Veterans in attendance. The “Gallery of Honor” military exhibit will be open from 4-8 p.m. on the day of the concert in Trinity Hall. Everyone is encouraged to post copies of veteran’s service photos and memorabilia.

Thursday, November 12

Millbrook Community Players Present Miracle on 34th Street -- Through November 15; also November 19-22 This is a tale that we want to believe in, that creates a world we seem to desperately desire, free of the blatant commercialism that surrounds us, where love and decency and generosity of spirit are their own rewards. What we want Christmas to be all about, really. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. except for November 15 & 22 at 2 p.m. Visit www.millbrooktheater.com or call (334) 782-7317 for tickets.

Friday, November 13

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

November2015 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. Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Mistletoe Through November 15 Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. This year’s elaborate production features “Favorite Dances of Christmas” and “The Messiah” with live music. It will be accompanied by the Montgomery Chorale Ensemble and a small orchestra under the new direction of Dr. James Seay. Performances are Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Tickets range in price from $15 to $30. Reserved and general admission tickets are available by visiting www. alabamadancetheatre.com. For more info, call (334) 241-2800. **A special open dress rehearsal will be held in honor of our Military on Thursday, November 12, at 7 p.m. at the Davis Theatre. The performance is open to all active duty, retirees, reserve and national guard military personnel and their families who present a valid government military ID card at the door. Tickets are available at the door the night of the performance and at Maxwell/Gunter ITT. ** Charis Crafters Craft Show & Tasting Fair -Through November 14 Wetumpka Civic Center. Friday hours, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday hours, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. A wide variety of handmade crafted items and homemade delights perfect for gift giving or decorating your home. Call Del Mock to reserve a booth (334) 201-1817. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also meets November 27 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 14

Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/eve nts/1374454692792666/?source=1. The Fragile and the Fleeting: A Multi-Media Workshop for Teens at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-5 p.m. Led by local art instructor Sally Chambliss, the workshop is offered in conjunction with the exhibition Once and Again: Still Lifes by Beth Lipman. Lipman works in glass and often photographs her sculptures in the landscape. Participants will create “glass” sculptures by manipulating plastic bottles, then photograph the works in the beautiful Blount Cultural Park, and post their creations on social media. Call Brandy Morrison t 240-4365 to register for this free workshop hosted by the MUSES, the Museum’s teen council. Vist www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333. 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 “build a pullback #48 car.” Ages 5-12. Free. Online registration opens before each clinic’s date. For more info, visit www. lowesbuildandgrow.com or call your local Lowe’s. Prattville Gigantic Flea Market Doster Community Center, 6 a.m.-noon. For info, call (334) 595-0800. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Second Saturday of each month, 10 a.m.-noon. NICU Conference Room, Baptist Medical Center South. Take the main

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Calendar/Support Groups hospital elevators to the 2nd floor. Go left off the elevator. Take an immediate left down the first hallway you come to (which only goes to the left). The conference room is the last door on your right at the end of the hallway, just before the back entrance to the NICU. This class is free to the community. Moms in their second trimester are welcome. Those that qualify will receive incentives. No children please. This is a learning environment. Call (334) 286-2829 to register. Alabama River Region Arts Center Christmas Faire -- Through December 22 ARRAC Center, 300 W. Tallassee St., Wetumpka. Saturday Jam Sessions at Old Alabama Town Also November 28 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) 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com.

Sunday, November 15

Trekking through the Past: Landmarks Foundation Fall Walking Tours 2 p.m. Robert Gamble and Mary Ann Neeley will lead the way from St. John’s Episcopal Church along historic Perry St. toward the I-85 bridge. Referred to in the 1850s as the “Fifth Avenue of Montgomery,” Perry Street’s houses date from the 1820s and include cottages, Greek Revival mansions and turn of the 20th Century revivals. Tour begins at St. John’s at the corner of Perry St. and Madison Ave. $10 tour admission, free to Landmarks Foundation members. Call 240-4517 or 240-4500 for more information and to reserve a spot! Mythbusters: Adam & Jamie Unleashed -- Jamie’s Farewell Tour Atlanta’s Fox Theatre, 7 p.m. Ticket prices begin at $33. Visit www.foxtheatre.org or call (855) 285-8499 for more info or tickets. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Oak Ridge Boys 7:30 p.m. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of The Oak Ridge Boys have spawned dozens of Country hits and a Number One Pop smash, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry and fan accolades. Every time they step before an audience, the Oaks bring four decades of charted singles, and 50 years of traditions, to a stage show widely acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere. Tickets begin at $35. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100 for tickets.

Tuesday, November 17

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Veteran and Police Appreciation Night 6:30 p.m. at Wetumpka Civic Center, presented by the Wetumpka Police Department. Featuring motivational speaker and professional bass fisherman Clay Dyer. Free to veterans and police officers. Meal furnished by Wind Creek Casino Staff. Please RSVY to WPD Chief Danny Billingsley at (334) 567-5321. Donations to the Wetumpka Police Department Donation Fund are appreciated and tax deductible.

Wednesday, November 18

A Dog Named Gucci 7 p.m. Fundraiser for the Montgomery Humane Society. Capri Theatre. Tickets are $10. Also collecting food for the shelter. Visit www.capritheatre.org or call Dee at (334) 467-9082.

Thursday, November 19

Capri Classics Presents The Breakfast Club 7:30 p.m. The classic 1985 John Hughes film featuring Molly Ringwald, Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Anthony Michael Hall and Ally Sheedy as a motley crew of teenagers sentenced to Saturday detention. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org.

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

December 4, 2015: It’s A Wonderful Life 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 “Alabama’s ‘Invisible Map’ of 1818 & the Origins of the Great Seal,” presented by David Robb. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Don’t miss the last session this year of this popular program for artists and art lovers alike. Artists can bring one work of art to show for friendly feedback. Light refreshments are also served. Cost is slightly more for nonMuseum or Montgomery Art Guild members. Call Brandy Morrison at (334)240-4365 or e-mail edsecy@mmfa.org to register. Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of Montgomery invites all women of the River Region to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. Our guest speaker will be Dr. Mary Casals, endocrinologist, on the topic “Something You Really Need to Know.” Ignorance is NOT bliss! Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, November 16, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com.

Saturday, November 21

Sterling Little Miss Christmas Pageant Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall, located at 511 N. Memorial Drive., in Prattville. This pageant series is for girls who live within the state of Alabama, age 0 month to 18 years, with seven age categories: Baby Miss (0 month to 23 mos.) Tiny Miss (24 mo. – 35 mos.), Petite Miss (3 – 5 yrs.), Little Miss (6-8 yrs.), Pre-Teen Miss (9 -11 yrs.), Jr. Teen (12 -14 yrs.) Teen Miss (15-18 yrs.). The pageant will begin at 2:30 p.m. The deadline for applications is Friday, November 16. Applications may be found online at www.SterlingMiss.org, in Prattville at the Bridal Boutique & Tux Shoppe, in Clanton at Brenda’s Formals and in Wetumpka at A Touch of Class. For info, visit www.SterlingMiss.org or call 313-5444. Autauga County Heritage Association Low Country Boil 6-10 p.m. Buena Vista Mansion, 641 County Road 4 E, Prattville. $30 per person in advance/$35 at the door. Silent auction, live Cajun music, BYOB. For tickets or more info, call (866) 283-5516 or visit www.autaugahistory.org. Second Annual Holiday Tree Lighting At ASF At 4:30 p.m., Santa will parade through Blount Cultural Park and light a beautiful 40-foot Leland Cypress Christmas tree on display in front of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival theatre. Bring the whole family out for this fun event and enjoy pictures with Santa, festive carols from the Montgomery Chorale, free carriage rides throughout beautiful Blount Cultural Park, free hot chocolate and Krispy Kreme donuts, and cast members of ASF’s a Christmas Carol. For more info, call (334) 2715354 or visit www.asf.net.

Sunday, November 22

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents A Christmas Carol -- Through December 24 A heart-warming, holiday must-see that will get you into the swing of the holiday season with Scrooge’s search for redemption and a spectacular, magical evening of ghosts, spirits, festivity and goodwill. “God Bless Us, Every One!” Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-5 p.m. Bring the entire family to this FREE fun event. View a special exhibition of artwork by well-known Alabama artist William Christenberry, “jive” with the rhythm and sounds of jazz, make your own art in the studio, and enjoy the BTW Dance Theatre’s energizing performance to end an afternoon of fun! Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333. Comedian Brian Regan Performs Live 7 p.m. Concert Hall at The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center. Ticket prices begin at $40. To order or for more

November2015 info, call (205) 458-8400 or visit www.bjcc.org/.

Monday, November 23

An Evening of “The Three B’s” with the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra Join Maestro Hinds and the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra at the Davis Theatre at 7:30 p.m., for an evening of “the three B’s” featuring Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, Bach’s Orchestra Suite No. 4 and Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1. The evening will feature classically acclaimed pianist Dr. Vadim Serebryany. For more info, call (334) 240-4004 or visit www.montgomerysymphony.org.

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Tuesday, November 24

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker 7 p.m. Tickets begin at $28. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100 for tickets.

Friday, November 27

Funksgiving Concert Union Station Train Shed. Gates open at 6 p.m. and concert starts at 7 p.m. Entertainment includes: BYOG, McLovins and Robert Randolph and the Family Band General Admission is $25 per person. Seating is first come, first serve. Food from Chris’ Hotdogs. Rain or Shine Event. Call (334) 625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com for more information.

Saturday, November 28

4th Saturday Mission Outreach Event 9-11 a.m. River City Church, a United Methodist congregation, invites the entire community to this event at the church, located at 301 Dexter Avenue. Admission is free. The River Region will have access to blood pressure/ glucose screenings, career services, free haircuts, hygiene items and canned goods. Participants can register for a drawing for a weekly bus pass and gasoline gift cards. During the 2-hour period, attendees can speak with prayer partners and purchase items (clothes, furniture, etc.) in the River City Rummage Sale located in the lower level of the church. Nurses will screen for diabetes (glucose testing), assess body mass index, blood pressure, and other vital signs. Volunteers will also provide homework help and a craft for children. For more info, please call 263-0549 or visit www.rivercityumc.com. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “build a school house bank.” In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free.

Monday, November 30

Wetumpka Depot Presents Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas -- Daytime Performances Through December 4 All shows are 9, 10:30 and noon daily. What could be fancier than Christmas? Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles—and who could forget the tree? This year, Nancy is especially excited about decorating the Christmas tree. She bought a brand-new sparkly tree topper with her own money and has been waiting for Christmas to come. But when things don’t turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous? In this merriest of stories from bestselling duo Jane O’Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser, Nancy proves that a little fancying up can go a long, festive way! For tickets or more info, call (334) 8681440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com. Prattville Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Festivities begin at 6 p.m. in the grassy field on Court Street with a breathtaking view of the spillway in the background. The Prattville Pops and local dance groups will perform and Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr. will flip the switch to light the Christmas Tree at 7 p.m. Just after the Tree lights up, Santa will arrive to visit with the children and hear their Christmas wish lists. And, of course, everyone will want to

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Groups

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Calendar/Support Groups join in as the Prattville Community Chorus sings Christmas Carols for the crowd. For more info, call (334) 595-0851.

Thursday, December 3

Christmas Lights Festival at Montgomery Zoo Also December 4-6, 10-13 and 17-31 5:30-9:30 p.m. nightly. See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland sparkling with thousands of lights. Take a leisurely stroll, a brisk train ride or see the lights atop the Zoofari Skylift Ride. Visit Santa, enjoy the nightly live entertainment, craft hut, petting zoo… and no winter’s night would be complete without some warming hot chocolate and fresh baked cookies. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents An O. Henry Christmas -- Also December 5; 10-12; and 17-19 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/. Red Door Theatre Presents Always a Bridesmaid Also December 4-5 & 12-13 Downtown Union Springs. All performances at 7:30 except December 13 at 2:30 p.m. By Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope & Jamie Wooten; directed by Kim Mason. directed by Kim Mason. Always a Bridesmaid is the rollicking tale of four loyal and determined women who definitively answer the question, “Just how far are you willing to go to keep a promise to a friend?” If you’ve ever elbowed a stranger out of the way to catch a bride’s bouquet, seriously questioned the mental stability of the duo saying “I do,” or been forced to wear the world’s ugliest bridesmaid dress, this deliriously funny comedy is definitely for you…and your dearly beloved! Written by the same playwrights who brought you The Hallelujah Girls and Mama Won’t Fly, this

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

might be their funniest play yet! Tickets may be obtained by calling (334) 738-8687 or visiting www.reddoortheatre.org. Baptist Healthcare Foundation Presents Keith and Kristyn Getty 7 p.m. at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Keith & Kristyn Getty occupy a unique space in the world of music today as preeminent modern hymn writers. In re-inventing the traditional hymn form, they have created a distinguished catalogue of songs teaching Christian Doctrine and crossing genres by connecting the world of traditional and classical compositions with contemporary and globally accessible melodies. Tickets begin at $25. Visit www. mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100 for tickets.

Friday, December 4

Capri Classics Presents It’s a Wonderful Life 7:30 p.m. The classic Frank Capra holiday film featuring Jimmy Stewart. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org.

Saturday, December 5

Holiday Open House at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1-4 p.m. The Museum invites you to an afternoon of holiday cheer at the 20th annual Holiday Open House. Local choral groups will perform throughout the Museum and the studios will bustle with holiday crafts including the ever-popular Reindeer Feed Bags. The galleries will be open, as will ARTWORKS. Be on the look-out for a certain red-suited guest who will listen to all holiday wishes.There is no charge for Holiday Open House, but we encourage you to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots or canned goods for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333 for more info. Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain

November2015 management, medical procedures,cesarean birth. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Preregistration is required. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org.

Sunday, December 6

Alabama Farmers Federation Presents Wynonna Judd: A Simpler Christmas 7 p.m., Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The fivetime GRAMMY award-winning and New York Times best-selling author, Wynonna Judd, is best known for her commanding voice and rich storytelling in song. Tickets begin at $37. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 4815100 for tickets.

Monday, December 7

Wetumpka Depot Presents Radio T.B.S. Trailer Park Broadcasting Scandals -- Also December 8, 10-11 and 13-15 Written by Mark Landon Smith and directed by Tom Salter, the action revolves around radio hostesses and society doyennes Vesta Poteet and Dixie Mandrell, who bring to you the comings and goings of the activities in and around The Luna Del Mar Manufactured Home Oasis and Monkey Empire. And what a jumpin’ place this trailer park is! The colossal celebration at Luna Del Mar, penicillin capital of central Florida, honors Jesus and Elvis: A Tribute to the Kings, a little nativity with some rock n’ roll. If you think that this kings’ tribute runs smoothly, you’ll also believe that teased hair is a thing of the past. For tickets or more info, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.

Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Home Based Business Directory Creative Wonders Parties No party to big or small--we have creative ideas for them all. Let us set up and decorate your event. Also, book your favorite character! Stress less and book the best today! Call 334-233-8617 or email Jackie at jstouter21@gmail.com.

Authentic Professional Consulting Tabitha Campbell, CEO Medical Billing Services, Bookkeeping, Professional Development Practice Management, Strategic Planning. Call 334.799.3862 or email authenticpconsulting@gmail.com

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Concerned for someone in an alternative religion? Lora Brown can help. 25 years experience with pre-evangelism, evangelism and re-evangelism. Free consultations & referrals. I also teach groups.

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DJ style entertainment for all ages and occasions. We play “age appropriate” music. Call Kyle Kessler at: (334) 233-4235 or visit www.kyle-co.com.

Located in East Montgomery Years of experience Smoke and pet free/clean home Ages 12 months-4 years Call (334) 676-3136.

Consultations and other services offered. For more information, please visit www.alawellness.com or contact Alissabeth Taylor at Alissabeth@alawellness.com.

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Funerals, Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthday Parties, and Family Reunions. Call Charles “Tee” Taylor at 334-220-2533.

Certified Dr. Sears Health Coach teaching family and pregnancy nutrition classes in the local area and online. Taught by Alissabeth Taylor, RN, HC

Chemistry Tutor

Provides lactation education and consulting, antepartum and postpartum doula services. For more information please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-531-0145. Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com

The Piano Man

No job too big or small. Clean/disinfect kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum, dust and floors. Over 13 years experience. Affordable pricing. 334.451.0052

Piano tunings, repair, and restoration. Active member of the Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. Call 569-9662 or visit www.pianoman.net/al

Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors. Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.

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Mental Health Strategist

Dedicated, Result oriented, Resilience building. With 10 years of (Psychology) and Community Practice. My evidence-base approach to integrated care provide: Pro-social relationships, Selfefficacy and a Subjective state of (Mental) well being to Clients, Educational, Hospitals, Federal, State, and Local Government agencies. For rendered services under (Clinical Supervision) please contact: Genevieve Morris Geneva.jiles7@facebook.com

Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 9 years. Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183

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Beautifully framed Scriptures. Elegantly custom made for every occasion. Bless someone you love with a gift of eternal value or treat yourself. Call Paige at 334-201-7994.

Get a DJ and a Photographer in one package for your next event. We specialize in birthdays, weddings, luncheons, family reunions, and holiday parties.

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The FREE AD GUY knows that every business needs a few lucky breaks before it can become successful. That’s why he is offering more FREE ads to Home Based Businesses. In return, the FREE AD GUY would appreciate it if you would tell a friend about Montgomery Parents Magazine. If you’ll just help him spread the word about Montgomery Parents Magazine he’ll keep working for you and your business. If you have already run a FREE ad you can send a request to repeat the ad or make changes. Please understand but we will not accept any phone requests. For new Home Based Business advertisers, just send your information to: FREE AD GUY, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123, or freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com. The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.

Montgomery Parents I November 2015

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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 UMC, Montgomery, 24

Montgomery Gem & Mineral Show, 21

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Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 36

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 20

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 35

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Frazer Memorial UMC, 9

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 28

Alabama Christian Academy, 15, Inside Back

From My Closet to Yours, 85

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 85

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My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 19

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 53

Great Leaps Learning Center, 48

New Park, 2

ASKIN/Synergy House, 86

Greater Faith Christian Academy, 85

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 43

Autauga County Family Support, 37

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, 67

Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 37

Baptist Health, 13

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 27

Precision Medical Solutions, 71

Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 41

Hooper Academy, 42

Bradford Health Services, 83

Interscapes, Inc., 11

Chapman Orthodontics, 59

Jenny Alexander, MD, 85

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 39

Kingry Orthodontics, 41

Christmas on the Coosa, 65

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Churchill Academy, 18

Kumon, 47

Dentistry for Children, 31

LaToya Clark, M.D., 60

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 26

Learning Tree Child Care, 46

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 20

Legacy Early Learning Center, 52

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Lighthouse Baptist Upward Camp, 26

Eastdale Mall, 3

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Eastwood Christian School, 30

Macon East Academy, 57

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Mathnasium, 34

Evolve Church Learning Center, 51

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 43

Family Support Center, P’ville, 85

Montessori @ Hampstead, 23, 50

FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 42

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First Baptist Church, Montgomery,4

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 25

Professional Pediatrics, 12 Providence Early Childcare/Preschool, 63 Pump It Up Party, 49 River Region Straw, 36 Riverview Camp for Girls, 54 ROCK Campaign, 44 Saint James School, 1 Smiles Galore Parties, 48 Spacewalker, The, 45 Spotless Cleaning Services, 8 Success Unlimited Academy, 29 Sylvan Learning Center, 51 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 21 The Dollhouse Toy Store, 49 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover Trinity Presbyterian School, 7

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 14 Vaughn Road Preschool, 73 Vishnu Dental, 75 YMCA, Montgomery, 31 www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

He Named Me Malala

Jem and the Holograms

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: AViolence: C+ Sexual Content: A Language: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated He Named Me Malala PG-13 for thematic elements involving disturbing images and threats. Malala Yousafzai captured the world’s attention when, in 2012, she and two other schoolgirls were shot by Taliban henchmen while riding their school bus home. Miraculously all three girls survived, but have been left with physical and mental injuries. For Malala, the bullet that entered the left side of her head caused a large skull fracture, and cut off the muscle movement on that side of her face and destroyed her ability to hear in one ear. Yet Malala’s story is not about her injuries -- it’s about her spirit. Raised in the Swat Valley of Pakistan in a moderate Muslim family, Malala observed and kept the moral codes of her religion. But when the Taliban decided girls could no longer attend school, the edict went beyond what her conscience could bear. As a young teenager she began to publicly challenge the law and that’s what placed her squarely in the crosshairs of her attempted assassins. Perhaps the most endearing aspect of this story is the subject’s sincere desire to put her cause ahead of the celebrity attention she is receiving. Although her father is by her side, Malala is no puppet child. Certainly Dad has engendered social responsibility in this family, yet his daughter claims personal responsibility for her advocacy activities. The filmmakers should receive praise for doing their best to tell the tragic details of Malala’s life without being overly gratuitous. Re-enactments of the terrorist attack where she was injured are shot with obscured camera images and imply the violence (with some blood effects) rather than showing it. Many parts of her past experiences, along with the accompanying fears, are portrayed in colorful, simplistic animation. The most shocking content is the inclusion of real news footage. Photographs of the empty bloodstained bus in which the girls were shot are seen, as well as a short clip featuring the body of a person executed in the town square that is wrapped in a blood-soaked cloth. Despite theses sensitive depictions, this documentary may still be too much for young children. However teens and adults will be offered a wealth of valuable discussion points, such as the benefit of being able to attend school and the rights of all children to receive an education. Malala especially embodies the challenges endured by girls --and her courageous actions are a great example of how one person can stand up to effect positive change.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: ALanguage: B Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Jem and the Holograms PG for thematic material including reckless behavior, brief suggestive content and some language Do you remember the Jem and the Holograms cartoon that ran on TV between 1985 and 1988? If so, you are likely too old to be impressed by this live-action reimagining of the young rock star. However, you just might have a daughter who’s the perfect age to be part of this movie’s target audience! The screenplay up-dates this thirty-year-old series by placing the characters in the middle of the social media revolution. While closet songwriter Jerrica Benton (Aubrey Peeples) is too shy to promote her talent, her sister Kimber (Stefanie Scott) has no such inhibitions. Hoping to be an internet star, Kimber constantly has her video camera turned on, and is forever trying to form a band featuring her sibling and their two foster sisters, Shana and Aja (Aurora Perrineau and Hayley Kiyoko). Despite the desperate money issues faced by their caregiver Aunt Bailey (Molly Ringwald), the foursome seem to have no shortage of pricy cell phones and computers, nor more pressing obligations than playing around with them. So one night when she thinks everyone is asleep, Jerrica borrows Kimber’s camera, pulls out a guitar, and records herself singing a sorrowful, self-authored ballad about loneliness. Embarrassed to show her real self, she paints her face, dons a blonde wig and calls herself “Jem”. Unfortunately, it is hard to keep a secret in such a small house, and everyone overhears her soulful solo. As soon as Kimber gets a chance, she uploads the video – which, of course, goes viral literally over night. The next day, major media outlets are commenting about the mysterious Jem, and just as quickly Erica Raymond (Juliette Lewis), owner of the large record label Starlight Music, announces she is interested in signing the unknown singer. Initially, Jerrica is uncomfortable with the attention she is attracting. Yet when Aunt Bailey simultaneously faces the treat of eviction, the 18-year-old decides to seize the opportunity to secure a better financial future for their family. The rest of the plot plods predictably as we watch the rising starlet and her back-up band face the challenges of relocating to a mansion in Los Angeles, the monotony of makeovers, the tediousness of trying on brand name fashions and enduring a grueling rehearsal schedule. Perhaps viewers within the intended demographic will buy into this dream of instant fame and the mantra of being true to one’s self. Their accompanying parents though, might find themselves asking some obvious questions, like how likely is it for a young artist to achieve lasting success? If Jem’s music is supposed to inspire each listener to embrace his or her own identity, why are so many of her fans dressed up just like her? Why are there no consequences for the depicted illegal activities? However, if you can overlook such details, then you may be able to focus on some of the redeeming messages. Family bonds, teamwork and forgiveness are strong contenders here.

What Parents need to know about He Named Me Malala...

Violence: Death threats, executions and murders are frequently discussed. Re-enactments of men gunning down students on a school bus, and a wounded girl being transported to medical care are purposely shot to obscure most details, although some blood is seen. Animation is used to depict some portions of this story, including a battle between warring soldiers where weapons are seen, and death and killing implied. Historical news footage is used and shows depictions of blood where shootings have occurred, a bloodied corpse, surgical procedures and bombed out buildings. Scars from life-threatening injuries are shown and the damage of a bullet wound to the brain is discussed. Slapping children as a punishment is mentioned. The documentary also shows other girls, children and refugees who are suffering because of poverty, war and terrorist acts. Sexual Content: None noted. Language: Siblings exchange some name-calling. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. Montgomery Parents I November 2015

What Parents need to know about Jem and the Holograms...

Violence: One character frequently steals little things. The girls don’t keep rules (like their curfew), lie, trespass, “borrow” cars and break and enter. Sexual Content: Teen couples kisses passionately. A mild sexual slur is used. A crude icon is shown on a computer screen. A man is seen wearing only a towel. Some performers wear skimpy costumes. Language: Mild cursing, profanity and name-calling are heard. Terms of deity are used as expletives. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Ask about financial aid options that make an MA education a possibility. The Academy admits students of every color, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, or other legally protected status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.