Montgomery Parents Magazine October 2016 by KeepSharing

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

Welcome Wednesdays in November AT STJ November is get to know us month! We encourage all prospective families to schedule an individual tour of Saint James School during the school day. In addition, we are inviting all who are interested in Saint James School’s Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten programs to our Welcome Wednesdays this November. 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.

Save The Date

OPEN HOUSE Sunday January 22, 2017 1:30pm

8:30am 8:40–9:00am

9:00am

Registration in the Admissions Office in Leu Elementary Enrichment Classroom Activity November 2, 2016–Science Lab with Miss Ingram November 9, 2016–Technology Lab with Mrs. Waggoner November 16, 2016–Spanish Time with Mrs. Jackson November 30, 2016–Holiday Library Time with Mr. Martin 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 334-273-3021 or email admissions@stjweb.org at least three school days before the Wednesday you would like to attend.

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

334-273-3021

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, gender, creed, 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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October2016 52

Volume 21 Number 10

Columns

6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

What Politics Teach Our Kids

How to find teachable moments during this political season.

Say Goodbye to Ghosts

Helping them overcome their childhood fears.

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen

38 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

42 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Andre L. Harrison

50 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

54 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

Fall Festivities and Halloween Fun

Our guide to all things “fall” in and around the community.

It’s Time for Time Management

Practical advice for teaching your kids this valuable skill.

On The Cover Solomon Marlow III (age 8) is a 3rd grader at Dalraida Elementary School. Proud parents are Solomon Jr. & Batrinka Marlow, and he has an older sister, Ankeedra Dixon. Solomon loves talking about Jesus, outer space, and playing with friends. He plays football for the Giants through Montgomery’s YMCA. 5

56 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

72 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 76 Calendar/Support Groups 92 Movie Reviews

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Editor’sNote With the start of the school year and having a new kindergartner in our home (plus a 10th grader), our mornings have become much busier. Up until this year Grace had been attending preschool, which meant she could show up pretty much whenever we got her there. Some days that might be 7:45 and other days it was closer to nine. Well those days are over. Now we have to be out the door by 7:05...every school day! Even though it’s the beginning of October I have to admit I’m still getting used to this morning schedule, and part of the reason is that Grace is just learning how to manage her time. She has four things that have to be done each morning: eat breakfast, put on clothes and shoes, brush teeth and brush hair. Sounds easy, right? Oh, but no. Somehow when she leaves my room to begin the process, she comes back five minutes later and her clothes still aren’t on her body. I found myself getting irritated saying, “What have you been doing?!” One morning she came out of her room after I’d been rushing her along for what seemed like forever and unknowingly (though quite proudly) told on herself by saying, “Guess what? I brushed my baby’s hair!” Well that explains it! After many frustrating mornings I finally decided to buy a kitchen timer and put it in her room. I set it on 10 minutes and tell her when that time is up everything needs to be done. Mornings have gone more smoothly I must admit, even though that first week I would peek in her room and see her adjusting the timer if it was getting to close to the bell. Sneaky little thing sure is smart for five! Time management is definitely a learned skill that some of us adults are still working to master. If we can begin teaching our kids early on it will make their lives much easier, and ours too, of course. In this month’s issue, Christa Hines shares practical advice on this topic in her article, It’s Time! It’s also time for Halloween, and our girls are super excited. However, this particular holiday can bring out fear in some children. Heidi Luedtke shares her “timely” article, Say Goodbye to Ghosts...And Other Childhood Fears. Immediately following, you’ll find our Fall Festivities and Halloween Fun Guide. It not only shares spooky Halloween fun happening throughout the River Region, but also fall farms, pumpkin patches, holiday shopping, arts & crafts festivals and much more. So there is something for everyone! It seems like we’ve waited forever for these wonderful fall temperatures so let’s get outside with our families and enjoy every minute of this beautiful season!

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers

Spence Agee Margaret Allen Mark Gregston Andre L. Harrison Christa Melnyk Hines Malissa Hoy, M.D. Carolyn Jabs Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Lori Mercer www.lorimercerphotography.com Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Gena Hill Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson Heather Watts (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell Member

DeAnne

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2015 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Handling Homework Drama Q: Our sixth-grade son has always been an excellent math student. This year, however, he melts down every time he does math homework. Within minutes, he becomes highly agitated, begins crying, and says it’s too hard and he can’t do it. We spoke with his teacher who says that he’s having no problem in class. She had no explanation for what we’re seeing at home. When he begins crying, my husband usually goes to help him, but that only makes matters worse. Your advice would be much appreciated. A: One can reasonably assume that sixthgrade math is more complex than fifth-grade math, but the teacher’s report effectively eliminates the possibility that your son reached his peak mathematical ability level toward the end of the last school year. Let’s see…sixth grade, puberty, episodic emotional turmoil, lack of tolerance

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

for frustration…I think I’ve got it! My diagnosis is tweenage math-specific self-drama syndrome (TMSSDS, confirmed by the fact that his father’s attempts to help only make matters worse). Drama begs for an audience, and no one is more inclined toward drama as the pre-pubescent tweenager. In all fairness, while your son has always been an “excellent” math student, it may very well be that math is actually not his strong suit and that the jump from basic math to complex functions is giving him some trouble. But even if that’s the case, it remains a safe bet that his emotional displays are out of proportion to the actual degree of difficulty. Dramatic professions of helplessness are typical of immature human beings of any age. When playing the victim attracts an audience, the immature human being of any age will invariably choose “I can’t” over “I can” even though “I can’t” is obviously selffulfilling and, as such, self-defeating. I recommend, first, that Dad stop running in to rescue said drama-factory from his

math issues. He should tell your son that if he wants help, he should coherently ask for it and it will be given. If, however, son becomes agitated, Dad’s help is finished and will not resume that evening under any circumstances. Second, make a rule that homework must be put away, finished or unfinished, at a certain time every evening, the actual time depending on after-school activities, when dinner is usually served, and bedtime on school nights. This new policy will promote some much-needed time management on your son’s part. Third, inform your son that if he has a meltdown concerning math homework, his homework and book will be confiscated, upon which he can, if he chooses, wake himself up early in the morning and resume working on it. It’s essential that your well-intentioned husband stops feeding the drama dragon and that your son be forced to bring it under control. Nothing short of consequences is going to accomplish that with a tween, believe me. If experience serves me well, I predict that TMSSDS will be cured within several weeks. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions at www.johnrosemond.com and parentguru.com.

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U.S. Marine Band Performs Free Concert

The United States Marines will present “The President’s Own” FREE concert October 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the MPAC. **Limit four tickets per person. ** Doors open at 6:45 p.m.

October Theatrical Fun!

ADT Presents Dracula: A Ballet To Die For

Sink your teeth into a thrilling vampire drama back by popular demand as Alabama Dance Theatre presents Dracula Saturday, October 29, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 30, at 2:30 p.m. at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. In addition to Dracula, ADT will herald Montgomery’s holiday season by continuing the beloved tradition of Mistletoe, featuring “Favorite Dances of Christmas.” This will be performed for one day only on Saturday, October 29, at 2:30 p.m. at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival as a special children’s matinee. Performance tickets are $15-30. Tickets go on sale October 3 and may be purchased at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival box office or at asf. net. For more info, call (334) 241-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com. Following Sunday’s performance of Dracula, there will be a “Meet and Greet” with guest artist Nick Hagelin, finalist on last season’s The Voice in the Patron Room at ASF. Tickets are $10 and will include a chance to win a pearl necklace and earring set, donated by Harold’s Fine Jewelry. ** The Alabama Dance Theatre will host a special closed dressed rehearsal to honor our Military Thursday, October 27, at 7:30 p.m. All active duty, retirees, reserve and national guard military personnel and their families who present a valid government military ID card at the door are eligible to attend. Tickets are available at the door the night of the performance, at Maxwell/Gunter ITT and at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue. Tickets are limited. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Through October 20, Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents Charlotte’s Web, a “timeless tale about love, loss, friendship and courage,” based on the novel by E. B. White. It is the story of Wilbur, a lonely little pig whose life is transformed by the efforts of Charlotte, a kind and generous spider, who teaches him about the power of belief and the true meaning of friendship. Recommended for ages four and up. For kids 12 and older, ASF presents Agatha Christie’s Mousetrap through October 9. Throw together a group of eccentric strangers trapped in a boarding house during a snowstorm, and murder and mayhem are sure to ensue! The audience will share the nerve-rattling suspense of the guests of Monkswell Manor as they try to determine who the killer is before he or she strikes again! Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Wetumpka Depot Theatre presents Young Frankenstein through October 15. Written by Mel Brooks and directed by Kristy Meanor, with musical direction by Marilyn Swears, this campy, bawdy comedy is great fun for teens and up. If you liked the movie, you’ll love the play! Tickets may be purchased at wetumpkadepot.com or by calling (334) 868-1440.

Trick or Pink at the Shoppes at EastChase

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Jr. League Holiday Market October 13-15 * Multiplex @ Cramton Bowl. Thursday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. A pair of Iron Bowl tickets will be given away. Friday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Spa gift certificate will be given away. Saturday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Santa’s Workshop and Breakfast with Santa: 9-11 a.m. Photos with Santa (for purchase): 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. General admission Tickets: $10; Advance: $5; Military (with Military ID): $5; Three-day Passes: $15; Valet Parking: $5. For details, visit JLMontgomery.com.

Alabama Frontier Days at Fort Toulouse

November 2-5 * Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Experience one of the largest and most authentic living history events here in Wetumpka! See the South as it transitioned from Creek Indian lands to military forts and civilian homesteads from 1700 to 1820. This snapshot of frontier life includes Creek Indians, French soldiers, British traders who lived among the Creeks, and American soldiers who fought in Andrew Jackson’s army during the Creek War. Additionally, there will be strolling balladeers, entertainers, period musicians and a magician as well as merchants selling quality reproductions of items used on the frontier. Admission is $8/adult & $7/child. Call (334) 567-3002 or visit https://fttoulousejackson.org/events/ for more info.

October 29 * 5-7 p.m. Celebrate Halloween while helping to fight breast cancer. There will be a pink pumpkin patch, costume contest, facepainting, food + drinks, music, games, and Halloween fun! Benefits the Joy to Life Foundation. For more info, call (334) 2796046. 10

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Wetumpka’s First Haunted History Tours

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Pike Road Plein Air Paint Out Returns

October 26-29 * 7-10 p.m. nightly Experience the rich history of Wetumpka’s historic downtown buildings and listen to hair-raising personal experiences of paranormal occurrences in the buildings by taking a haunted history tour! Book your tour by contacting Jamie at (334) 567-4811 or jyoung@wetumpkachamber.org.

The Pike Road Arts Council and Alabama Plein Air Artists have partnered to present the fourth annual Pike Road Plein Air Paint Out Friday and Saturday, October 14-15. The event kicks off at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 14, at SweetCreek Farm Market (85 Meriwether Road, Pike Road). Activities will run through Saturday evening, October 15, culminating with an art show and sale at Pike Road Town Hall. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. For info, call (334) 272-9883 or visit www.pikeroad.us.

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Creatures of the Night at Alabama Nature Center A Shakespeare Celebration! Capitol Sounds Band Presents Fall Concert

The Capitol Sounds Concert Band will present “Sounds of Autumn” Fall Concert on Sunday, October 30, at 3 p.m., at City Hall Auditorium in Montgomery. Donations will be taken at the door. For more info, visit www. capitolsounds.org.

October 15 * 4-6:30 p.m. Bring the family and join us for a Halloween-themed evening under the stars, hosted by the ANC and Reality Connection. Activities will include a slithering snake encounter, black lighting for insects, ewwy gooey touch table, flashlight spider search and night hike, and a movie under the stars! S’mores are complimentary for the movie. Bring a blanket or chairs. All ages, but recommended for ages 5 and up. Admission: $5. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call 1-800-822-9453.

October 15 * Noon-7 p.m. A family-friendly, Blount Cultural Park event involving both the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. There will be offerings on the grounds of the theater including performances, creative children’s activities, artisan demonstrations, fight presentations, talks on Shakespeare, and more. Several arts activities (1-2 p.m. and 3-4 p.m.) will also be offered at the MMFA. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

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KidsHealthWatch

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FluMist Missed Its Mark It’s that time of year again. It’s time to roll up your sleeve and get your flu vaccine. This year however, things have changed. You won’t have a choice between the shot or the FluMist. New research is out showing that the FluMist has not been as effective against the prominent circulating strains of influenza as the shot has for the last three years, while prior to that it had been comparable. The most recent numbers showed that the FluMist was 3% effective versus the 63% effectiveness of the shot during the 20152016 flu season. Therefore the Center for Disease Control Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has removed FluMist from the recommendation for influenza vaccination for this year. What caused this change to happen you ask? The verdict is still out. The CDC is continuing to look at data to try and figure out what went wrong. The big change seems to have occurred when the vaccine changed from a three component to four component vaccine. More investigation is needed to decide if and when it will return. This doesn’t change the recommendations. The ACIP is still recommending that everyone over the

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

age of 6 months get a flu vaccine and with good reason. Every year approximately 20,000 children under 5 years old are hospitalized with complications due to the influenza virus. Many of these children were previously healthy with no other chronic conditions. Influenza is a respiratory illness similar to a cold that is caused by a virus. Many of the symptoms resemble those you might have with any other cold and can be hard to distinguish from a cold without being tested. Influenza is spread very easily. Every time an infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits while talking the droplets that land on objects or people have the virus in them and can infect you. A person who seems healthy can carry the virus and infect other people, as the virus can take 1-4 days to make you sick. The best way to prevent getting sick is to get vaccinated. Many places already have the flu vaccine and are already giving them out. It is recommended that children 6 months to 8 years get two doses at least one month apart the first year, then they only need one dose each year

after that year. Everyone else needs one shot every year to provide immunity. Worried about catching the flu from the vaccine? You can’t. The ingredients in the vaccine are inactivated or recombinant (which means no virus in it at all) and cannot cause illness. The shot can cause you to have some soreness at the site and achiness over the next day or two. It is sort of like when your child gets their vaccines. The doctor usually tells you they may be sore, run a temp, or just be fussy for a day or two after their vaccines. These symptoms are much milder than the actual flu and are a result of your body working to make antibodies to protect you from the flu. If you do get sick after the vaccine, it is likely you were already about to get sick from being exposed to someone who was sick. Remember the vaccine takes about two weeks to provide full immunity so don’t delay. Call your child’s doctor today and schedule a time for the vaccine. Dr. Malissa Hoy was born in Montgomery. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa and earned her medical degree from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, West Virginia in 2007. She completed her Pediatrics Residency in Detroit, Michigan at St. John Hospital and Medical Center. Malissa is happily married to Jade and they have two children.

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School to Work October is Manufacturing Month and for MPS secondary schools especially, this is a big deal. So what does manufacturing have to do with schools? Quite a lot actually. Manufacturing is extremely important to the River Region. We have companies that make everything from delicate surgical instruments, to water heaters, and great automobiles. These companies provide jobs for our parents and a tax base to support our schools. The possibilities for careers and earning potential are endless. There is a direct link between Montgomery Public Schools and our manufacturing community. We help to train the next generation of workers for companies’ high paying technical positions with ben-

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

efits that can support families and boost our economy. Beginning in the middle grades, every Montgomery Public Schools student is exposed to opportunities that are available through our career and technical education programs. Students can leave MPS with more than a high school diploma. With our dual enrollment agreements, a student could actually graduate with an associate’s degree along with his or her diploma. There are also dozens of certifications available ranging from computer networking to automated manufacturing technology and certified nursing assistant. Most certifications allow students to step right into a job or give them a step-up when applying for competitive majors in colleges and universities. I hope you will visit our new campus of Montgomery Preparatory Academy for Career Technologies – or MPACT – at the One Center in the old Montgomery Mall. This school is a showcase and a model for how career technical education should be

done. With majors in advertising design, building science and construction, electrical technology, fire science, HVAC, industrial systems, information technology, medical science, public safety, and welding this school meets the needs of both students and the business community. There are hundreds of careers that can get a jump-start with our programs. Whether your child wants to be an architect, builder, computer scientist, an engineer, or wants to save lives as a first responder, nurse or other healthcare professional, there is likely a place in our career and technical programs for him or her. Talk to your child’s guidance counselor, or call (334) 269-3613 to find out more about the possibilities for a great career for your child. 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

Annual Holy Cross Day Celebrates School’s Founding

Pike Road Competes In Cross Country Event

The Pike Road Patriot cross country team had a strong showing in Millbrook at the Stanhope Elmore Mustang Cross Country Invitational. The girls were led by Marissa Hall, and Aubrey Grace led the way for the boys.

Clear blue skies above the green rolling hills on the Holy Cross Episcopal School campus provided a beautiful setting to the annual celebration of Holy Cross Day. The Rev. Bob Hennagin, rector of the Church of the Holy Comforter, led The Litany of Prayer which began the day in the Chapel of the Annunciation with prayers and remembrance of the Founders of the school’s inception. Worship moved into Melanie Kelley Hall, where Holy Eucharist was celebrated by the Rev. Rosa Lindahl of the Church of the Ascension and assisted by Rev. David Peeples, Priest in Charge at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, and the Rev. Hennagin. The Holy Cross Show Choir, which is comprised of fifth- and sixth-grade students, sang an offertory anthem entitled “I’ll Make the Difference,” under the direction of choirmaster Beverly Fain. At the conclusion of the service, the children recessed down the aisle of the great hall singing the Irish Celtic Prayer, “May The Road Rise To Meet You,” and gathered outside on the grass adjacent to the chapel to prepare for the annual balloon release. The children decorate and write messages of hope and encouragement on strips of paper and attach them to each balloon, hoping they will go a long distance and bring words of hope and encouragement to someone far away. While students enjoyed a special treat to celebrate the day, guests moved into the library for a reception, where guests mingled and enjoyed a time of fellowship and celebration. From left, Zoe and Meg Stough are shown with their third-grade class.

Knight Ambassadors Named at Montgomery Catholic’s Middle School Campus

SUA Seniors Create Sidewalk to Success

Success Unlimited Academy seniors were treated to a “Focus on Success” the evening of August 15. To make the night more exciting, the group created a “Senior Sidewalk to Success!” The seniors were served hot dogs, ice cold sodas and bags of chips as they mingled and visited with their friends after the summer break. Headmaster Susan Alred and other faculty members were on hand to wish the new senior class good luck. The Student Government Association and senior class officers greeted returning students and new senior students. “The seniors were so excited to be together,” said Activities Director Julie Beard. “The artwork created was really awesome. Using sidewalk chalk, everyone wrote their names and created their own masterpieces for the first day of school.” Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Montgomery Catholic’s Middle School has named Knight Ambassadors for the 2016-2017 school year. These students show leadership, good judgment, maturity, honesty and integrity while upholding their responsibilities of being a student, serving as campus role models. The 2016-2017 Knight Ambassadors are seventh-grade students Catherine Aaron, Sadie Bartels, Cecelia Crawford, Angeles Gonzalez-Ansaldi, Mallory Hildebrand, Jake Talbot and Auburn Wilcoxson, as well as eighth-grade students Gracie Barranco, David Dean, Cecelia Hoffpauir, Daniel Gacha, Angela Gier, Ines Gonzalez-Ansaldi, Hannah Parrish, Ellie Pool and Eli Starrett (not pictured). The Ambassadors began their duties at Parent Open House held on August 25 at the Montgomery Catholic Middle School campus. The students helped parents follow their child’s class schedule and answered questions about Middle School life at Catholic. Counselor Sarah Rech is the advisor for these young leaders.

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Montgomery County Schools

Mentoring Program Helps New Teachers at Carr Middle

Sylvan Learning Center Uses Fun Food Lessons

Carr Middle School novice and veteran teachers are off to an excellent start this year through their participation in Mentoring Matters, a dynamic program designed to ensure new teachers receive the highest quality professional development possible. The program pairs new teachers with experienced educators and provides them an opportunity to engage in meaningful, sustained, on-site, job-embedded professional learning. Seventh-grade teacher Stacie King recently led a training where new and tenured teachers were actively engaged in hands-on activities and practical strategies they could easily use in the classroom. Eighth-grade teachers Rebecca Cole and Annette Wiley also helped new teachers prepare for their first day of school. Here, the teachers explored their teaching and professional learning styles and were given T-shirts that reflect their strengths.

Sylvan Learning Center teacher Mrs. Joli uses food almost every day in her elementary class to teach concepts in math, reading and science. On this particular day, she taught the concept of patterns by using potatoes dipped in ink to make and recognize patterns. This tactile learning style is fun and keeps students engaged and focused.

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New Holocaust Studies Class Offered at Trinity

A new Holocaust Studies class is now being offered at Trinity Presbyterian School. World History teacher Lucy Thrasher, who has taught at Trinity for more than 20 years, and English teacher Lisa Lawrence are teaching the class in a cross-curriculum format. Thrasher will cover the historical aspects, while Lawrence will teach complementary literature. Last year, Thrasher and Lawrence, shown above, attended the Birmingham Holocaust Education Center’s (BHEC) “Teaching the Complexities of the Holocaust” fall workshop, where they discovered a common interest for the Holocaust. The excitement from the workshop, along with their fervent desire for student engagement in cross-curriculum pursuits, led to the idea of creating a Holocaust course. Because Trinity graduates are required to have a one-semester credit of humanities, they designed the course to fulfill this requirement. They approached the administration with the idea and were given the green light to create a course description to present to the Academic Committee. The Holocaust Studies course was unanimously approved and placed on the 2016-2017 course selection sheets for juniors and seniors. Twenty-one students have signed up for the course to date. While working through the class objectives, description, and curriculum, both teachers applied for and were each awarded a Friedman Scholarship for professional development. Thrasher attended the Summer Institute for Teachers in New York City, and Lawrence attended Facing History and Ourselves: Holocaust and Human Behavior in Memphis, Tennessee. Both Thrasher and Lawrence are eager to implement the skills and incorporate the information learned this summer into the classroom as they present the Holocaust to students effectively. 19

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Montgomery County Schools

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ACA Sisters Attend Medical Leaders Congress in Boston

Ever since they were little girls, Alabama Christian Academy students and sisters Keely and Aly Nguyen say they have dreamed of becoming physicians. As daughters of Drs. Nguyen and Nguyen, they grew up in multiple doctors’ offices filled with opticians, technicians, and optometrists––their childhood heroes. They watched their parents examine patients and save many people from going blind. The opportunity to help the community through bettering people’s health mystified them. This past summer, the girls were given the opportunity to attend the Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Boston, Mass. The Congress consisted of thousands of future physicians, researchers, and medical innovators. The Nguyens were surrounded by brilliant young adults who aspired to change the world; in fact, Aly met one 15-year-old boy who has been working to cure three different diseases using one antibiotic he synthesized in his home lab. Deans from Ivy League medical schools coached the students in the ways of research; genetic engineers explained synthetic mutations; and both the recipient and the inventor of the first bionic eye addressed the group as if they were their personal students.

Churchill Kicks Off New Year

The students and families of Churchill Academy kicked off the beginning of the school year with an old-fashioned ice cream social held at Pete Peterson Lodge in Montgomery. Bouncy houses, ice cream, and the band “The Surreal McCoys” were all present to help the Churchill Academy family rock in the new school year.

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Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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Holy Cross Episcopal Welcomes Liz Fryer

This year Holy Cross Episcopal School has expanded its program to include an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, Liz Fryer. Having previously served as an ESL teacher at Park Crossing and Pike Road School, Fryer brings with her a wealth of knowledge and skills to assist our ESL students with learning English and transitioning into the classroom. When she is not helping students, Fryer also works with public relations and marketing to communicate the exciting things happening at our school every day. Along with twenty-seven years of experience in education, Fryer served as the coordinator of the Montgomery Advertiser’s Newspaper In Education program, wrote for the children’s publication, “The Mini Page,” and prepared publications for the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce. Fryer is married with a daughter, son-inlaw, and two grandchildren. A native of Texas and a lifelong Episcopalian, she shared her thoughts on her new position at Holy Cross. “I feel I have come full circle to have the honor to represent and showcase the excellence of Holy Cross Episcopal School,” she said. “The stellar academics and enrichments, the warm encouraging atmosphere provided by the administration, teachers and staff, and at the center, the beauty and strength of the Episcopal faith will equip our students for a lifetime.”

Hands-on Science at Bethany Christian Academy

Recently at Bethany Christian Academy, the fifth- through eighth-grade science class learned about living things in their By Design science textbooks taught by their teacher Ms. Carrington. The class learned that all living things are made up of cells. The science lab allowed students to explore living and dead plants and animals with digital microscopes to see details they would not normally see with their own eyes. The students also put together and labeled parts of a plant cell and an animal cell. The students enjoyed the hands-on learning they were able to take part in.

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Churchill Honors Heroes of 9/11 at Special Service

ACA Yearbook Staff Trains for a Great Year

On September 1, the Alabama Christian Academy yearbook staff attended the 2016 Yearbook South Fall Workshop at the Herff Jones Printing Plant on the Selma Highway in Montgomery. They enjoyed a plant tour and informative presentations on yearbook design software and on photography tips. Additionally, they met with a design artist and created the cover for this year’s yearbook. It was a day of improving both their creative skills and their fellowship with each other. From left are Courtney Pruitt, Maya Smith, Grace Bruner, Ashby Henry, editor B Khuntonthong and sponsor Candice Foster.

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

During September, Churchill Academy honored the heroes of 9/11 and remembered the lives lost that day through a service on the school grounds. Students and teachers were joined by the Pike Road Fire Department, along with parents and community leaders who serve in first responder roles across the River Region. Churchill Eagle Scouts Richard and Gary Backus raised the flag to half mast and led the school in the Pledge of Allegiance. Students Josh Tolle and Thomas Rutherford assisted with the flag presentation. Tributes included poems and choral readings by students Christian Anderson and Luke Ferrell, and Mrs. Gunnells’ eighth-grade class. Xander Smith played an arrangement of “America” on the violin, and the ceremony concluded with “Taps,” played by Gavin Gaines and John Faulkner.

Pike Road Junior Varsity Football Team Starts Strong

The Pike Road Patriots junior varsity football team played hard against Tallassee’s Southside Middle and came out with the winning score of 29-14. The team also won against Holtville with a score of 28-6! The team captains were AJ McPherson and Griffin Robinson.

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Chisholm Dedicates ‘Buddy Bench’

Students at Chisolm Elementary recently learned that kindness can be as simple as sharing a seat during a bench dedication ceremony at the school. River Region ROCK (Respect Others, Create Kindness) and the Montgomery chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) unveiled the school’s new “Buddy Bench” on August 25. Designed by NAWIC, the bench features the ROCK and NAWIC logos and is placed where students gather before and after school. Its purpose is to encourage friendship among students and reinforce the strong kindness message that students are receiving as part of the district’s character education and antibullying programs, some of which are delivered by the Family Sunshine Center and ROCK messaging in schools. Family Sunshine Center Public Affairs Director and ROCK taskforce member Melanie Beasley said the programs promote respect, teach conflict resolution skills, and discourage bullying in all forms. “Chisholm was selected because of its success in incorporating ROCK in its Positive Behavior Support programs, and for participating in school-based activities that promote respect and kindness,” said Beasley. “The Family Sunshine Center offers evidence-based anti-bullying curriculum, workshops on teen dating and violence prevention and other tools in schools because we know that violence is often a learned behavior.” NAWIC member Anne Welch said she hopes the bench will encourage students to form friendships with others they don’t know. “Sharing a seat is the first step to sparking conversations that lead to friendship,” said Welch. “We want students to be buddies, not bullies, and we support ROCK’s efforts to create kinder schools and communities.”

Holy Cross Teacher Explores Five Senses

Holy Cross Episcopal School kindergarten teacher Donna Lee introduced the concept of the five senses with her students as they visited the school’s STEM lab. Lee guided her students to explore and focus on the sense of taste, sight, smell and touch. Students had the opportunity to smell and taste different types of foods, such as plain chips, dill and pickle chips, cocoa powder, and M&Ms, and have the opportunity to look at them through a magnifying glass.

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Saint James National Merit Semifinalists Take the Lead for Montgomery Schools

Holy Cross Buddy Program Fun for All Ages

Holy Cross Episcopal School pre-K teacher Lucy Fleming had a collection of activities, books and concepts gathered and ready for exploration. The fifth-grade students began by introducing an octopus cutting activity to help their pre-K “buddies” learn how to hold scissors and cut construction paper to develop fine motor skills. Next, they cut out a large letter “o” and learned how to use a glue stick to secure the octopus on top of the “o” on brightly colored sheets of construction paper. Fleming had selected the book My Very Own Octopus by Bernard Most for the students to celebrate the letter “o” and another book ready for the “buddies” to share to teach the concept of opposites. Guiding and teaching is so much fun for the older students and very exciting for their younger “buddies.”

Four Saint James School seniors have been named National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists, a prestigious honor awarded to only 16,000 students out of the 1.5 million who took the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). These exceptional Saint James students are the largest group from any independent school in the area achieving this high honor. Seniors Daniel Kim, Gyuna Kim, Connor Taylor and Ian Tsekouras were all recognized for their outstanding performance on the PSAT and are now working on the requirements to be named National Merit Finalists in February. When named a National Merit Finalist, the students are considered for Merit Scholarship awards based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. “At Saint James, we work diligently every day to nurture and develop a love of learning in each child at our school,” said Dr. Larry McLemore, Head of School. “We believe each child possesses worlds of potential, and we are committed to developing the unique gifts and talents within each student. When I look at the success and achievements of Connor, Daniel, Gyuna, and Ian, I know that they earned this extraordinary recognition through their devotion, commitment and passion for learning. Their teachers at Saint James have been mentors to them all along the way to reaching this accomplishment. We all celebrate their achievements and we congratulate each of them and their families.” In addition to earning the high honor of National Merit Semifinalist, these four STJ students are Advanced Placement (AP) Scholars. They are among the 20 Saint James students who were named AP Scholars by the College Board in August 2016. Gyuna Kim was named an AP Scholar with Distinction, which means she has earned a score of three or higher on five or more Advanced Placement exams. Daniel Kim, Taylor and Tsekouras were all recognized as AP Scholars with Honor, which means they earned a score of three or higher on four or more Advanced Placement exams. In addition to these four students, six Saint James students were designated AP Scholars with Distinction, four were named AP Scholars with Honor, and six were named AP Scholars, which means they scored a three or higher on three or more AP exams. Gyuna Kim has excelled even further, reaching perfection on several of her standardized tests. She earned a perfect score of five on four AP exams as a junior (English Language and Comp, US History, AB Calculus, and Chemistry), and she earned two perfect scores on the SAT last fall, with a math score of 800 and an 800 in writing. This year, she earned a perfect score of 800 on the SAT subject test, chemistry; and a perfect score of 800 on the SAT subject test, math Level 2. Joining Gyuna with perfect standardized test scores is senior Jason Zhang, who has earned a perfect score of 36 in math on the ACT (twice) and a perfect score of 800 in math on the SAT. Above, from left, seniors Gyuna Kim, Ian Tsekouras, Connor Taylor and Daniel Kim.

ACA Senior Chosen for Macy’s Great American Marching Band

Highland Gardens Class Builds House for a Pig!

Alabama Christian Academy senior Heather Barsukoff has been selected as a member of the 2016 Macy’s Great American Marching Band. She will march in the 90th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Barsukoff has the honor of joining other students from across the nation as an elite member of this band. In addition to marching, she will enjoy some of New York City’s famous attractions including visiting Times Square, seeing a Broadway show, attending a leadership workshop, and enjoying a Thanksgiving dinner dance.

Students in Grace Davis’s class at Highland Gardens got a new take on the classic children’s story “The Three Little Pigs.” Students applied math and engineering concepts to discuss what type of materials and how to construct a house that would be resistant to the huffing and puffing of a big, bad wolf. Students had 20 minutes to then build a house for one of the three little pigs. This one, shown here, looks pretty sturdy! Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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SUA Welcomes New Teachers to the Upper Campus

Success Unlimited Academy announces three additions to its high school campus for the 2016-17 school term. Terrica Carlisle, a retired teacher with more than 28 years of experience, will be teaching Algebra II, Honors Geometry and Geometry this fall as well as Trigonometry. She is also an ACT prep instructor and has worked on site at SUA preparing many students in the tri-county area for the math portion of the ACT. Cecil Turk joins the SUA faculty as our health, life skills and environmental science teacher. He has tutored for SUA this past year and still currently tutors at Huntington Learning Center. Rhonda Wilson, a 25-year veteran of the Montgomery Public School system, will be teaching history, government and economics. Wilson’s energy and love for teaching have made her transition very smooth. “I have never served at a school that has such a God-filled spirit. The staff is so supportive and the students make me feel so welcome,” said Wilson at the end of her first week at SUA.

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Goodwyn Spotlights Student Athletes

Goodwyn Middle School is spotlighting student athletes who excel both on the field and through service to their school community. The September winner was eighth-grader Jaylen Smith-White. He was presented his award by Goodwyn Principal Curtis Black, Head Coach Herman Dudley and Warrior Athletic Director and assistant football coach Javaris Jackson.

Forest Avenue Hosts Back to School Bash

On September 16, the Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School PTA hosted its annual Back to School Bash fundraiser. The event, which featured an Olympic Games theme, had more than 500 families in attendance. Children enjoyed inflatables provided by Space Walk of Montgomery, an exhibit from the Montgomery Zoo, and demonstrations by Tiger Park Taekwondo, US Yoshukai Karate and the Alabama State University cheerleaders. Families dined on Chick-fil-A, Marco’s Pizza, Firehouse Subs, Cupcakes by Tish, Bruster’s ice cream, cotton candy provided by Classic Cookie Company, and other refreshments by the Alabama Sweet Tea Company. The event helped raise more than $20,000 for technology needs at the school.

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Trinity Recognizes Thin Blue Line

Before the football game on September 2, Trinity Presbyterian School recognized law enforcement officials from the Montgomery Police Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. In order to show appreciation to the brave men and women who step into harm’s way daily, Trinity’s varsity football players are wearing “Thin Blue Line” stickers on their helmets for the 2016 football season. Head of School Kerry Palmer commented, “Our desire is to express this appreciation in a tangible way while also making our students aware of the importance of respecting our law enforcement authorities and understanding the sacrifice that they make on our behalf.”

Evangel Pom Squad Performs on the Field Evangel Christian Academy’s youngest Lions showed their pride by performing at halftime during a recent football game. The “PomSquad” consists of students who range in age from kindergarten through sixth grade. The girls dressed in ECA’s school colors and proudly presented their routine. The young Lions had attended a clinic earlier in the year hosted by ECA’s cheerleaders.

Churchill Prepares for School Year

Churchill Academy teachers were joined in August by Esther Williams, M.Ed. of PositivePaths.com, to prepare for students and create a positive, bully-free school environment.

F U M C C H I L D R E N ’ S M I N I S T RY ’ S

OCTOBER 23 } { SUNDAY, 4:00-5:30 p.m.

North Parking Lot (next to the playground)

First United

Trunk-or-Treat (4:30-5:00) Live Music • Horse Drawn Hayride • Giant Inflatable Face/Hand Painting • Guess How Many Cupcake Walk • Candy Corn Bowling and more!

METHODIST CHURCH

Happy costumes are welcome!

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LAMP Students Named National Merit Semifinalists

Montgomery Public Schools recently announced that 12 Loveless Academic Magnet Program students were named 2017 National Merit Semifinalists. Junghoun Bae, Joshua Breckenridge, Marlee Bryant, Seung Gyu Choi, Danica Justine de Jesus, John Frost, Teja Ginjupalli, Micheal Head, Jae Young Kang, Mary Norris, Tae Ho Koh and Hilina Woldemichael are among 16,000 students who were selected from a pool of 1.6 million juniors from more than 22,000 high schools who scored well on the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) and applied for the program. These students, who are now seniors, will advance to compete for some 7,400 National Merit Scholarships, worth $33 million that will be offered next spring. New LAMP Principal Mathew Monson said he’s pleased to be a part of the school’s long record of academic success, particularly with the National Merit Program. “The students that we are recognizing today have earned qualifying test scores on the PSAT that put them in the top one percent of all U.S. high school seniors not only in the state, but across the nation. That’s really outstanding,” said Monson. To be considered for a Merit scholarship, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and more than half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.

Hop into Holy Cross Kindergarten Class

Holy Cross Episcopal School sixth-grade students, who are participating in the buddy program pairing them with kindergarten students for the year, visited Donna Lee’s kindergarten class to help with a very special art project. First, they did a fun reading activity together and then created five little speckled frogs to illustrate the finger play the kindergartners performed earlier in the day during their morning meeting.

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W Grandparents Day at Pike Road

Pike Road School had a wonderful time welcoming grandparents recently. Since not all children were able to have a grandparent attend, Community One teacher Mrs. Hallford invited her parents, Freda and Woody Woodman, to visit. They shared stories and poems with the class. Then each child was involved with a grandparent and an activity. Visitors signed in, graphed their favorite pet, and plotted the country they would most like to visit. There was a selection of old-fashioned candy (from Cracker Barrel), apples, and spice cookies to enjoy. The children set up various centers around the room so guests could share or read a story, make a picture or craft, and play checkers, board games or puzzles. The children also offered a tour of learning centers and then shared the cards and pictures they made. It was such an enjoyable time!

Morningview Makes Messy Learning Fun!

Each Wednesday, students in Megan Davisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-grade class at Morningview Elementary practice writing their spelling words on top of their desks in shaving cream. Students enjoy this hands-on activity which is beneficial for kinesthetic learners. Davis calls out a word that will appear on an upcoming spelling test and will use it in a sentence. Students then write the word in the shaving cream and take turns spelling the word out loud. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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Fitzpatrick Uses Olympics as Teaching Tool

After teaching a lesson on recounting key details, using the recent Olympics as a resource and teaching tool, Fitzpatrick Elementary third-grade teacher Tamia Webster and Principal Dr. William Milledge competed in a 40-yard dash and had the third-graders write key details about their race.

SUA’s Lower Campus Welcomes New Faculty

Success Unlimited Academy’s lower and middle school welcomes new faculty members for the 2016-17 school term. New lower school teachers include Carol Batiste, kindergarten; Stacy Easterling, Achievers A, with Pat Rhodes, paraprofessional; and Whitney Brooks, 2nd Grade. The middle school welcomes Anna Pugh, 8th grade science; Bill Granger, 8th grade history/assistant athletic director; and Diana Norwood, Achievers B. Founded in 2000, SUA operates two campuses and has an enrollment of more than 325 students. Susan Alred serves as headmaster, along with Lauren Morgan as vice principal.

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

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Bishop of Costa Rica Visits Holy Cross

On September 9, Holy Cross Episcopal School was honored by a visit from the The Rt. Rev. Hector Monterroso Gonzalez, Bishop of Costa Rica, who was in Montgomery visiting as a guest of Church of the Ascension. Church members Pat Bamman and Foy McGowin arranged the visit and brought him to see the school. Principal Kathy Taylor escorted the visitors on a tour so they could see the classrooms, meet the teachers and students and witness the school’s outstanding curriculum and enrichment programs. She also invited them outside to experience the picturesque campus and to see the beautiful Chapel of the Annunciation describing its captivating history and the founding of Holy Cross School in the late 1990s. From left are Pat Bamman, Holy Cross Principal Kathy Taylor, The Rt. Rev. Hector Monterroso Gonzalez of Costa Rica and Foy McGowin.

Success Unlimited Begins New School Year Focused on Success

Success Unlimited Academy’s faculty and staff held their teacher in-service August 11 and 12 to prepare for the new school year. As they entered Moody Hall, something was different. The administration greeted new and veteran staff members dressed as mad scientists. The room had been transformed into a science lab equipped with microscopes, magnifying glasses, strobe lights, extra thick reading glasses, and instrumental music playing in the background! This year’s theme, “Focus on Success,” was demonstrated throughout the two-day in-service with faculty members “dissecting” the needs of the student body, weighing out the options for new programs, measuring performance of the students and predicting outcomes for the new school year. “I really enjoy our in-service days,” said high school science instructor Tullis Young. “The administration really put a lot into the presentations and made it so much fun and educational for us at the same time.” Joseph Schaub, 14-year veteran of the school, said, “My favorite part of the two-day training is the spiritual emphasis. This year the scripture reference was from Habakkuk 2:2. ‘Write the vision upon a tablet that you may run after it.’ We all took time to write personal visions for ourselves, focused on new visions for the school, and watched a video of the one who gives us vision- Jesus Christ.” Headmaster Susan Alred concluded the inspirational meeting by treating teachers to theme-related tote bags monogrammed with “Focus on Success.” The bags included teaching supplies, a ream of paper, popcorn, personalized chocolate bars and a hidden treat of $100 for each staff member to enjoy as he started the new school year ready for Success! “I believe my faculty deserves a blessing as they embark on the new year,” Alred said. “So often teachers feel overlooked and underappreciated. My faculty is the best in Montgomery. I am so honored to work beside them each day.” Bonnie Nail, Tullis Young and Lauren Morgan are shown. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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STJ Marching Trojans Named Class Champions

The Saint James Marching Trojans took home the Class A Champion title at the Powder Springs, Ga. Bands of America (BOA) Regional Competition. The show, “No Grit, No Pearl,” was definitely a fan and judge favorite at the contest. Saint James often features vocalists and rhythm section highlights that are unique in marching band shows. The 2016 show includes these elements and even a musical rap performed by a student. Additionally, one of the songs the band performs this year was penned by two of the student musicians currently in the Saint James Band. It is a high energy, engaging show that truly resonated with the audience in Powder Springs. The band played twice during the BOA contest on Saturday and received a capacity standing ovation both times. Under the direction of Susan Smith, the Saint James Band competes in local, regional and national contests through Bands of America. This is especially noteworthy based on the size of the Saint James band. Class A is comprised of schools that have 600 or fewer students in high school, which means most of the bands in Class A have more than 100 musicians on the field when competing. Saint James is often half the size or a third of the size of most bands it is competing against. In November 2015, the Saint James Marching Trojans were named third in Class A at Bands of America Grand Nationals in Indianapolis. Against all other Class A bands across the nation, the Trojans were ranked third for musical performance, visual effect, and general effect. The Trojans are competing at two more contests in Alabama this season and then traveling to San Antonio, Texas, for the BOA Super-Regional competition in November. Saint James has been named the SuperRegional Class A Champion in Atlanta for the past five consecutive years. Shown, STJ senior Emily Kent sings during the Trojans’ performance at the Bands of America Regional Competition in Georgia September 17.

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Wetumpka Depot Players Present School Matinees of The Glass Menagerie

Special daytime performances are available for school groups to see the Tennessee Williams classic The Glass Menagerie October 24, 25 and 26 at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. daily. Students will be invited to a special “talk back” with the actors and director after the performance! Tickets are $10. Few plays have explored the byways of the human heart as poignantly and poetically as Tennessee Williams’s The Glass Menagerie. Amanda is a Southern belle, abandoned wife, and dominating mother, living with two grown children. Amanda dreams of a better life for her painfully shy and crippled daughter, Laura, who evades her mother’s schemes and reality by retreating to a world of make-believe. Tom, her son and sole support for the family, wrestles with his desire for adventure and a life outside the confines of their small apartment in St. Louis. Amanda pushes Tom to find a “gentleman caller” for Laura; however, his arrival sends shockwaves through the family and causes cracks to form in the delicate fantasies that have kept them each going. For more information, contact Kristy Meanor, Depot Executive Director, at (334) 868-1440 or kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

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

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

Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA

NOW ENROLLING K4-12 2016-2017

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

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For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office

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ACA Student Excels Outside the Classroom

Alabama Christian Academy student Sam Andress a skilled rider in Cowboy Mounted Shooting. He is a world record holder as the youngest Men’s Level 4 in the history of the sport, state record holder as youngest Men’s Level 5 in Alabama, and holds multiple Champion State Cowboy titles. Andress will compete in many tournaments across the state in the hopes of winning another championship title. 31

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Goodwyn Middle Salutes Local Veterans

Goodwyn Middle School recently saluted local veterans as part of its annual national Constitution Day Program and Brunch. Students read excerpts from the U.S. Constitution and patriotic poems thanking local veterans for their service. They also presented the veterans handmade thank-you cards. Lanier High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choir and JROTC also performed. The guest speaker for the event was Lt. Gen. Ronald Sams (Ret.), who is the director of city investigations for Montgomery. He shared a light moment after the event with, from left, Goodwyn Assistant Principal Derdia Ramsey, MPS school board members Eleanor Dawkins, Durden Dean and Robert Porterfield, Goodwyn Principal Curtis Black and Schenita Manora, Goodwyn parent liaison, who organized the event.

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Pike Road Volleyball Gets Great Start

The Pike Road School volleyball team defeated Park Crossing in back-to-back matches in September, scoring 25-20 in one match and 25-21 in the other.

A K4-12 College Preparatory School

ENROLLING NOW Holy Spirit Elementary Campus, K4-6 grade

Montgomery Catholic strives to help each student reach their God-given potentialâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in the faith, academics, athletics, and arts.

8580 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36117 334-649-4404

St. Bede Elementary Campus, K4-6 grade 3850 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, AL 36109 334-272-3033

Middle School Campus, 7-8 grade 5350 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36116 334-272-2465

For more information contact vdickson@montgomerycatholic.org or call 334-272-7221 ext. 32.

High School Campus, 9-12 grade 5350 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36116 334-272-7220

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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ECA Alumna Returns to Teach

Alexis Moorer, a new high school English and literature teacher at Evangel Christian Academy, has returned to her former school where she once walked the hallway as a student. Moorer transferred to ECA in 2006 as a 10th-grader. She was a member of the volleyball and softball teams, also having the pleasure of cheering the ECA basketball team on to two consecutive state championships! Moorer graduated in 2008 and attended Huntingdon College, where an English professor inspired her to follow her love of literature. During her last semester in college, she felt God calling her into education and returned to school to become a teacher. She graduated from Huntingdon in 2012 as one of the top five students in her class. Since ECA had been such an essential part of Moorer’s education, she wanted to give back to the school. When her previous high school English teacher retired, Moorer was honored to take her place. She is shown here with her husband and young son.

Churchill Welcomes New Staff Members

Churchill Academy celebrates the most recent additions to our faculty and staff by welcoming Kristie Kiernan, Jay Sampson, and Jessica Harden to the Churchill Academy family.

Back to School at Bethany Christian Academy

On August 10, Bethany Christian Academy opened its doors to welcome students back to school. Teachers and staff worked together weeks before to get the school ready for the 2016-17 student body. Under the direction of Principal Mrs. Bussey, teachers Mrs. Franks, Dawson, Freeman and Ms. Baskins and Carrington, students were met with smiles and open arms. This year Bethany Christian Academy’s theme is RESPECT! Bethany is trying to teach its students to have respect for God, adults, themselves and others. The school mascot is an Eagle and at Bethany the students believe they will “soar high.”

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Saint James 8th-Grader Crowned Miss Iron City’s Outstanding Teen

Catholic Campuses Start the Year with Fun

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s St. Bede and Holy Spirit campuses start the year off learning the rules and getting to know each other. Mary Pear’s sixthgrade class at the St. Bede campus kicked off the year with a friendly game of “Dot Math.” Above, Nicolas Calandra and Grant Eady compete to see who can win the game by connecting dots to make the most squares and answering fun math questions correctly. Below, at the Holy Spirit campus, Austin Taylor and Aubrey Sadler from Mary Walker’s K4 class were the first students to visit the treasure box in Mrs. Ceasar’s office. Following the rules is a BIG deal in K4, and these two students were rewarded for being safe, respectful and responsible.

Young ladies from across the State of Alabama recently competed in the inaugural Miss Iron City’s Outstanding Teen Pageant at HewittTrussville High School. The event was emceed by Chandler Champion, Miss Alabama 2013. Under the directorship of Kelly Wright, the pageant is a preliminary to the Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen Pageants. Laura Grace Henry was crowned the first Miss Iron City’s Outstanding Teen. She is an eighth-grade student at Saint James School. Her platform is “Hiding in Plain Sight-the Children of Domestic Violence,” and her talent is piano performance. She is the daughter of DiDi and Bryan Henry of Prattville. Henry will represent her title at the Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen Pageant March 4-5, 2017, in Sylacauga, where she will compete for thousands of dollars in college scholarships and the opportunity to advance to the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant, which will be held in Orlando in July 2017. The newly crowned Iron City titleholder won cash scholarships and numerous prizes, thanks to the many generous sponsors of the program. She will also enjoy a year of activities including a visit with Alabama Governor Robert Bentley, serving as a hostess at the Governor’s Mansion Christmas Tour, and numerous other local appearances and activities. The mission of the Miss Alabama organization is to help educate the young women in Alabama by providing scholarships for their college education. Local pageants are held from the end of June through the end of January’s each year. The Miss Alabama and Miss Alabama Outstanding Teen programs are state preliminaries to the Miss America and Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageants.

Holy Cross Offers Unique Curriculum

Holy Cross Episcopal School begins every day in the Chapel of the Annunciation with a service of morning prayer, uplifting worship music and each Wednesday, Holy Communion. The chapel service is led by an Episcopal priest from various Montgomery parishes. As a result, Holy Cross offers an exclusive curriculum which features faith, academics, arts, athletics and ESL Instruction. On September 8, Rev. Robert Wisnewski of St. John’s Episcopal Church was the guest priest for Thursday Chapel. His message was not only instructional but also a demonstration. He called for two volunteers, one to be calm and one to panic, and then suggested a scenario for the students to role play and also joined in the fun. Father Wisnewski fell to the floor “in pain” and said, “You broke your leg. How do you react? Go!” What a contrast we saw in reactions between the two students acting as if they were in that exact situation, and it was also very realistic particularly with Father Wisnewski participating himself in the feigned injury! The message was very close to situations which actually play out in our lives on a daily basis and was an excellent reminder that all of our days are under the watchful protection of God. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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Forest Avenue Supports Spirit Night

Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School hosted “Spirit Night” at the Chipotle Mexican Grill on September 8. Students and their families enjoyed a delicious meal while helping to raise funds for the school. Chipotle is donating a portion of the sales from that night to Forest Avenue.

2016

October 29 @ 7:30 pm & October 30 @ 2:30 pm A special children’s matinee October 29 @ 2:30 pm of

“MISTLET

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Alabama Shakespeare Festival Stage • Information: 241.2800 Tickets: alabamadancetheatre.com This performance is made possible by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the following sponsors:

Churchill Sponsors Community Expo

Churchill Academy was a presenting sponsor for the Montgomery Parents Magazine Special Needs Expo in September. What an honor to spend this time with the families of Montgomery and the River Region!

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Pike Road 7th Graders Study Cell Theory

After completing Life Science Standard 1, Pike Road School’s Community Seven students decided to show off their mastery.Each learner participated in several activities that encouraged them to express a scientific argument supporting cell theory. Learners had to base their arguments on evidence gathered from experiments and studies from the founding scientists of cell theory. 35

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Senior Selected as Distinguished Young Woman of Macon County

Morningview Class Makes Continent Models

Students in Mrs. Berry’s social studies class at Morningview Elementary made models of the seven continents using salt dough. They had a blast! Students went on webquest and virtual field trips to find facts about all of the continents. To tie in art, the students were able to paint their continents.

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Alabama Christian Academy senior Morgan Prestage has been selected as the Distinguished Young Woman of Macon County. She will compete at the state competition in January. “I am so honored to be selected to represent Macon County at the Alabama state program,” Prestage said. “I am excited about meeting other young ladies from the state and learning from them. I am looking forward to this amazing opportunity and I am very excited to see what will happen.”

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There is a tug of war for the hearts and minds of our children. Here are critical questions E astwood Christian S chool believes every parent should be asking:

K4 / K5 Open House January 12, 2017 / 11:00 a.m.

¥ Do I believe in a quality, classical education provided with a biblical worldview?

New Student Registration (K4-12) January 23, 2017-February 3, 2017

¥ Who is shepherding my child each day, five days a week, and 175 days a year? ¥ What has gone wrong with the product of modern education? ¥ Will those leading my child’s extra-curricular activities be godly, mature, skilled leaders and coaches? ¥ Who are you joining with in the great struggle of developing a Christian mind and heart?

Eastwood Christian School 1701 East Trinity Blvd.

(334) 272-8195

www.eastwoodschool.org Our Headmaster invites you to set an appointment with him.

Eastwood Christian School admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, 37 scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

We have had a great beginning to the school year, and I have made it around to check on the progress of all 9,562 students in Autauga County. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than watching our young people excel. Each year, we strive to improve in all aspects of your children’s education, including making as many necessary capital improvements as possible. The remodel project for Prattville High School was completed just in time for the opening of school. This project refurbished the front entrance area. This area was closed in with a glass front and office spaces were added. The project provides better entry control, an assistant principal’s office with a view of the parking lot, a centrally located school nurse’s office, and an attendance and registrar office.

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

The 2017 budget passed on September 9, 2016, and contains numerous capital improvement projects. Prattville Kindergarten School will be getting a new roof; Prattville Junior High School’s roof will be reconditioned; Prattville Elementary School will have its parking lot paved; and Prattville High School and Prattville Elementary School will be receiving new intercom systems. Many other smaller projects were approved, as well. Being able to improve the educational facilities is always important; however, we must first get our students to school safely. I am pleased to announce that on August 15, the board approved the purchase of 35 new school buses. A major concern of mine each day is getting your child picked up from your home and returned to your doorstep safely. Having reliable buses is a top priority. I have always said that our schools are excellent because of the support we receive from our communities. The communities within Autauga County work with our system to give our children the very best they have to offer. A prime example of this

type of dedication to our children comes from Century 21 Real Estate in Prattville, who competed among Century 21 offices throughout the nation and won a prize that will benefit the children of Autauga County. Two team players from the US Olympic Soccer Team will hold a mini-camp for interested students in Autauga County. This camp will take place on October 24th at the Bradford Branch YMCA. Your student will receive more information from their school about this exciting offering. How blessed we are to have local businesses who take an active role in the betterment of our young people’s experiences! Next month I will give a report on how all of our fall sports are progressing. To keep up with the day to day events in our system, like us on Facebook at Autauga County School System. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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Sixteen Prattville High School Students Score a Five on AP Language Test Sixteen Prattville High School students achieved a rare feat by scoring the highest score, a 5, on the Advanced Placement English Language and Composition Test. These sixteen students are joined by Andrea Forrester, their AP Language teacher, as well as PHS Principal Richard Dennis and Autauga County Superintendent Spence Agee. Prattville High School currently offers 18 Advanced Placement course options on campus or through Access Online Learning. After completing an AP course, students have the option of taking the associated AP exam. Any student receiving a high score on an AP exam, typically a 4 or a 5 on a 5-point scale, may earn college credit. In 2016, thirtyfour Prattville High School students were named AP Scholars with an average score of 3.68. Four of these students were named AP Scholars with Honor with an average score of 3.56. Ten of these students received special recognition from College Board as AP Scholars with Distinction with an average score of 4.16. This is an honor granted to students who receive scores of 3.5 or higher on all AP exams taken, and has scores of 3 or higher on four or more these exams. AP Scholars: granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams include 2016 graduates Alexandra Aerni, Robert Ashurst, Brittany Bayes, Dani-

elle Cook, Michael Fennell, Tristin Glmore, Madison Hollon, Ashlyn Jackson, Samantha Jefferies, Victoria Norfleet and James Smitherman; and current seniors Daniel Burnham, Lauren Chambliss, Elina Dawson, Allison Hall, Katie Holtzscher, Molly Kopf, Eunjee Oh, Connor Settle and Zoe Sparks. AP Scholars with Honor: granted to students who receive scores of 3.25 or higher on four or more AP Exams include 2016 graduates Catherine Connell, Devin Townsend, Sidney Wasner and Mykaela Watt. AP Scholar with Distinction: granted to students who receive scores of 3.5 or higher on five or more AP Exams include 2016

graduates Gavin Baugh, Julia Crothers. Katie Fagan, Kristen Grooms, Abhi Gulati, Donald Ho, John Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Driscoll, Connor Rainey and Taryn Watkins; and current senior Wesley Donhauser. Front from left are Jennifer Go, Katie Holtzscher, Isobel Moreland, Hannah Edwards, Grace Glidden, Molly Kopf, teacher Andrea Forrester and Allison Hall; middle, Spence Agee, Christian Chapman, Lauren Chambliss and Savannah Cowart; and back, Daniel Burnham, Kai Scharff, Kevin Jacobs, Wesley Donhauser, Mackenzie Martin, Madeline Ward and Richard Dennis.

PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN

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Autauga County Schools

Prattville Primary Celebrates Grandparents

Prattville Primary School had more than 250 grandparents come and celebrate Grandparents Day with their grandchildren during the week of September 12-16. Lots of smiles, hugs, and delicious breakfast were shared. Mrs. Mary and her awesome staff truly “stepped up to the plate” during the entire week to serve the students and special guests.

National Merit Program Recognizes Four Prattville High School Students

Autauga County Superintendent Spence Agee and Prattville High School Principal Richard Dennis announce that Lauren Chambliss, Christian Chapman and Laura Vickery are semifinalists in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program. They are three of the 16,000 semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,600 Nation Merit Scholarships worth $43,000,000 that will be offered next spring. Shown above from left are Superintendent Spence Agee, Laura Vickery, Christian Chapman, Lauren Chambliss and PHS Principal Richard Dennis. PHS also announces that Allison Hall is a commended National Merit Scholar. This placed Hall among the top 5% of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2017 competition by taking the 2015 Preliminary National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. She is shown below with Agee and Dennis.

Prattville Christian Academy Hosts Superhero 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run

Prattville Christian Academy’s Panther Prowl 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run is a superhero-themed event that will be held Saturday, October 22, beginning at 7 a.m. on the PCA Campus. This year’s run will feature huge registration discounts for our favorite superheroes, the River Region’s first responders, as well as costume contests, games, giveaways, emergency vehicle exhibit and more! The Panther Prowl is an annual event that benefits PCA’s annual fund. The PCA annual fund supports educational enhancements that positively impact all students. Registration for the 5K will be $25 and the 1-Mile Fun Run will be $15. First responder entry fees for both will be $5. The 5K will feature some of comic history’s most evil villains and you just might get to experience the ultimate good versus evil duel during your run. After the run, there will be refreshments, activities and the chance to thank many of Prattville’s superheroes during their display of emergency service vehicles. We encourage all participants to dress like their favorite superhero whether it’s a comic book character or a real-life hero such as a first responder. A winner will be announced in the following categories: adult (16 and older) and child. To learn more or register, please visit prattvillechristianacademy. org/panther-prowl. You may also like the event’s Facebook page at facebook.com/PCAPantherProwl.

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Prattville’s Cub is Positive Influence

Prattville Primary School’s Cub has been spotted in car line, at Movie Night, handing out gift certificates with representatives from Chicken Salad Chick, and walking children to class. We have found that the cub can change the attitude of both children and adults. There is something about waving to a cub that just makes you smile.

Prattville Primary Holds Open House

During Prattville Primary School’s Open House/Orientation, art teacher Rebecca Lee facilitated a participatory art experience. A progressive masterpiece was created with student and adult participation. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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Prattville Primary Resumes Bell-Ringing Tradition

Prattville Primary School had overwhelming support as it restarted the tradition of ringing the PPS bell. The first bell ringing took place August 22 with first-grader Brayden Marcinko and second-grader Shelby Horne selected as the first ringers of the year. The bell ringing is being used as positive reinforcement for behavior that supports the PPS “Cub Motto.” Use your manners; be prepared; show respect and choose responsibly. The 900-pound bell sits atop a steel derrick on the Washington Street side of the campus. Woodrow Johnson, the late father of retired sheriff Herbie Johnson, designed and helped build the structure when he was working at Continental Eagle. That was the name of the “gin shop,” downtown Prattville’s iconic landmark.

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Prattville Primary Holds Movie Night

Prattville Primary School had a wonderful turnout for “Movie Night” on September 9. Families and friends came to watch Zootopia and enjoyed time together with their children. The movie was free and concessions were sold. 41

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Montgom

I Am Elmore County Schools I am an educator, an administrator, a lifelong learner, and for the past 24 years have been devoted to the students, parents and staff in Elmore County. “I AM ELMORE COUNTY SCHOOLS. “ From a young age, I have always wanted to be a teacher. Growing up and attending school in Lowndes County, I became pigeon-holed as a student who would never make anything of himself. If not for the encouragement, guidance, and support of Mrs. Evelyn Bedgood at Calhoun High School, I would not be where I am today. Ms. Bedgood saw something in me, believed in me, and

helped me find a way to attend college, thereby putting me on track to become a teacher. Through her encouragement, I found my purpose. I knew that if I could help a student reach his or her potential, I would be fulfilled. This same passion for helping others succeed still carries me today. I have spent 24 years instilling this principle into the minds of students, teachers, and staff, shaping Elmore County Students. I often get asked, “What makes Elmore County Schools successful?” The answer is simple – our people! Our teachers and staff touch the lives of our students daily and pour themselves into making these students the best they can be. Our students, in turn love to learn, strive for the best, and excel. Over the next few weeks, we will be telling the stories of staff, students, and teachers who collectively make up Elmore County Schools. Whether it’s a graduate from one of our schools

returning to teach a new generation of students, a third grade student who has the highest level of Accelerated Reader points in the school, a bus driver who ensures all of her students are transported to and from school safely every day, or a student athlete who excels on and off the field, each of these individuals are what make Elmore County Schools successful. This project is entitled “I am Elmore County Schools” and we hope you’ll enjoy hearing the individual stories of the people of our school system that make us so successful. You can find these stories on our Facebook page. I couldn’t be more proud to say that “I am Elmore County Schools!”

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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It’s a good neighborhood for letting go. HE’S JUST A LITTLE BOY BUT FEELS TEN-FEET TALL WALKING TO SCHOOL. AS A FIRST GRADER, HE STILL LETS ME HOLD HIS HAND, BUT I KNOW HE’LL BE PULLING AWAY SOON. AND MY JOB – HARD AS IT IS – WILL BE TO LET GO. AT LEAST I KNOW THESE SAME SIDEWALKS WILL SEE HIM THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL.

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Elmore County Schools

Area Homeschoolers Give to the Community

ARIS Donates to Flooded Louisiana Schools

Airport Road Intermediate Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faculty and students were honored to participate in a school supply drive for the teachers and students of East Baton Rouge Parish. Many classrooms that were previously stocked with pencils and notebook paper became completely submerged from flooding and they had to be thrown out. An abundance of donations came in within days! We are very proud of the giving spirit shown by our teachers, students and parents.

A few Academy Days Co-op students delivered canned goods to W.E.L.C.O.M.E. Inc. in Millbrook recently. More than 225 cans were collected at the start of fall semester and donated by the homeschoolers to the food bank serving West Elmore County families in need. Pictured are Micaela Morbidelli of Wetumpka, Windsor Joye of Deatsville, Sarah and Tamara Phillips of Millbrook, and Jason Jackson of Millbrook. The teenagers represent the 49 families of the tri-county area who participate in the homeschool co-op. Held weekly during the school year at Coosada Baptist Church, Academy Days Co-op offers preschool through high school classes in subjects such as science labs, acrylic painting, computer programming, Spanish, creative writing and P.E. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information about the coop or homeschooling.

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Eclectic Participates in Community Helper Parade

Eclectic Elementary kindergarten classes studied community helpers and ended the week with a parade. Students dressed as what they would like to be when they grow up and paraded up and down the halls. Pictured is Mrs. Hicks’s class.

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Wetumpka First Grade Celebrates Grandparents Day

County Promotes School Attendance

September was Attendance Awareness Month in Elmore County. Holtville Elementary School set aside the entire month to promote perfect attendance. Students that had perfect attendance for the month had their names entered into a drawing for one of 15 bikes. Wal-Mart in Wetumpka supported this event.

2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690

460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411

Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen 45

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Elmore County Schools

Elmore County High Schoolers Surprise Eclectic Kids

The Elmore County High School football players and cheerleaders greeted car and bus riders to Eclectic Elementary School on game day.

Wetumpka Teacher Makes Active Classroom

Shay Nobles, third-grade teacher at Wetumpka Elementary, has changed her classroom into a kinesthetic classroom. Students can ride stationary bikes and balance on exercise balls while working on classwork. (photo courtesy of the Montgomery Advertiser)

Students Present Elmore County Vision

Redland Fifth-Graders Head to STARBase

Redland Elementary School fifth-graders are excited to be heading to STARBase Maxwell. STARBase Maxwell provides an educational experience second to none, strengthening the core educational base for children in the River Region. This is accomplished specifically in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Hosted at Maxwell Air Force Base and supported by the community, area children are immersed in an environment of positive role models, cutting edge technology, advanced curriculum presentation, higher level learning concepts and dynamic team teaching styles. It is the hope of Maxwell AFB that the STARBASE program will continue through a mutual relationship with a community partner. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Elmore County Public Schools vision and mission proposal was presented by local students at the ECBOE meeting on September 12. The vision is “Every Student Empowered. Every Student Succeeds.” This vision simply and effectively communicates the role of the faculty and staff members across the county to EMPOWER; and it places accountability on the students to strive for SUCCESS in all they undertake, whether it is in the classroom, in athletics or through extra-curricular activities. The students presenting the vision are: Gracie from Eclectic Middle School, Libby Clair from Eclectic Elementary, Allen & Abby from Wetumpka Middle, Kaylie from Holtville Middle, Hudson from Wetumpka High and Avery & Chloe from Holtville Elementary.

WES Class Enjoys Hands-On Science

Mrs. Tyler’s fourth-grade class at Wetumpka Elementary collaborated in groups to create a light bulb.

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Holtville Bulldogs Work Together

School is in full session and so is the Bulldog Spirit in Holtville. Each Friday we support our high school by wearing green and white, and our high school supports elementary students by helping unload car riders.

WES Collects Donations for Louisiana

Wetumpka Elementary collected 52 cases of water, one box of diapers, and one box of wipes to send to flood victims in Louisiana.

Send Your School News to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FREE!

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Redland Choir Performs at PTO Meeting

ARIS Teachers and Staff Honored with Grandparents’ Day Gift

Redland Elementary School students, led by third-grade teacher Misty Trussell, serenaded the teachers with “Better Place” by Rachel Platten at the first PTO General Membership Meeting in August. The guest speaker was District Attorney Randall Houston, who spoke to the parents, teachers and staff about the programs his office has in place to ensure the safety of the students in Elmore County.

The Zeta Phi Beta Sorority/Omega Xi Zeta Chapter, Wetumpka honored the teachers and staff of Airport Road Intermediate School who are also grandparents. They were given a beautiful personalized gift to honor their work at ARIS and for being a grandparent. Thanks to this organization and its representatives: Tonya Allen, president; Pat Williams (1st Vice President); and Kelbrey Porter (ZHope Coordinator). Z-Hope stands for Zeta Helping Other People Excel.

ARIS Curriculum Night

Airport Road Intermediate School held a very special annual event September 8. Curriculum night is where we “bridge the learning gap” between school and home.” Parents are invited to come learn strategies from their children’s teachers so that they can better assist their children at home. Parents were also treated to a free meal courtesy of the ARIS PTO.

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Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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Upcoming Events at Wetumpka Elementary

Wetumpka Elementary invites everyone to WESFest Thursday, October 6, from 5-7:30 p.m. There will be games, prizes, food, music, and much more! WES Frankenstein 5K and Fun Run with costume contest will be held October 22. Registration for the 5K with a free T-shirt is $25; 1 mile fun run with free T-shirt is $15. 5K race starts at 8 a.m. and 1 Mile Fun Run starts at 9 a.m. Meet at the back of the school. For more information about registering, please contact Wetumpka Elementary at (334) 567-4323.

Eclectic Elementary Learns About Community Helpers

Kindergarten classes learned about community helpers in August. Firemen and dads Cody Johnson, Denver Thompson, and Reed Dutton came to talk to all the kindergarten classes at Eclectic Elementary. Students were able to try on helmets and firefighter gear while learning about firemen duties. Pictured is Jessica Kelleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class.

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

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

A Great Teen Parenting Mistake Well-intentioned parents, doing as they have always done to protect their children when they were young, often circle the wagons and marshal control when their teenager makes a mistake in judgment. Others keep their wagons circled all the time, never giving up any control to the teenager in the first place. Such parents then wonder why their teenager rebels against them or lacks maturity. It’s natural for parents to believe that trouble can be avoided by keeping their teenager always in sight, by fixing their every problem, and by generally keeping them under their control. But I’ve learned that teens mature quicker when parents take steps in the early teen years to give up some of the control they have over their teen’s life.

Learn to Let Go!

Do you have the habit of picking up the slack, covering all the bases, answering all the questions, solving all the problems, and making everything easy for your teen? If so, you might not be doing your teenager any favors. Instead, you may just be keeping your teenager immature, dependent and powerless. If you want your child to grow up, and he’s reached the teen years, you may have to learn to let go. You may have to get out of the way. It boils down to one very simple concept — the best way to empower your teenager is to share the power you’ve always had over him, allowing him more and more power and responsibility for making his own decisions.

Hold Them Accountable

Responsibility becomes an internal life force when parents empower a child to make decisions, line out their options, define the consequences, and then let them choose. If your teenager is fully capable of doing well, communicate that belief to him by giving him more freedoms. Fortunately, most teens want to take control of things in their life — so let them. As you back off, let your teenager know they will be given even more freedoms if they handle the first steps well. And make it clear that you will remain in the role of the enforcer of consequences, should they break the rules. Such consequences could include losing some of their newfound freedoms and losing some of your trust. Then, let them make their own choices, and also let them bear the full responsibility for Montgomery Parents I October 2016

those choices. Line out their options, define the consequences for bad decisions, and then let them choose. Don’t rescue them by not enforcing consequences for their poor choices. And equally as important, don’t forget to congratulate and reward them for making good choices!

The Power of Empowerment

As you learn to let go, your teen’s expectations will shift away from leaning on you to run their life and fix everything for them (including their mistakes), to the understanding that they are the ones responsible for how things turn out. They’ll surely make many mistakes before they begin to understand what good decisionmaking looks like. And they may even try every trick in the book to get you to rescue them out of their poor choices. But don’t do it! Hold them responsible, just as they will some day be held accountable as an adult.

Give Them Something to Be Responsible For

Teenagers don’t become responsible or learn to think more maturely by accident. They learn from being in situations where responsibility and maturity is expected and modeled. That’s why I highly recommend to parents that they get their child into a part-time job throughout the teen years, and particularly one that is service-oriented. Probably the biggest mistake of schools today is when they keep kids so busy with after school activities, that there is no time for a job in which teens can learn responsibility. Outside of what Mom and Dad are expecting of them, nothing can teach a teenager about life and making a livelihood than a job can. Kids who get their first job after they graduate from high school are at a disadvantage and have a lot of catch-up to do in the area of maturity. The right job for just a few hours each week can be a perfect training ground for a teenager, teaching people-skills, moneymanagement, time-management, and even helping the teenager determine what she does or doesn’t want to do after high school.

When to Take Back Parental Power

Now, let me address the family dealing with a teen who is already spinning out of control 50

or is addicted to drugs, alcohol, sex, or other harmful substances or behaviors. This situation is entirely different. In this day and age, a child choosing to self-destruct or to live a dangerous lifestyle could end up in serious trouble, or could even die. In this case, empowerment shifts back to the parent, who must intervene and retake decisive control, since the teen’s lifestyle is actually controlling the teenager at this point. Take whatever measures are necessary to ensure his safety and do it now. It is up to you to create a solution, such as counseling or substance abuse treatment. Then, with a plan in hand and with all the power you can muster, communicate this message: “Honey – we love you. Nothing you do or say will make us love you any less, and nothing you do or say will make us love you any more. But we are not going to live like this anymore. Since you are not making the right choices on your own, here is what will change in your life, as of today…” And then stick to your plan. There’s nothing that will ruin your future ability to get such a teen back on track than to not follow through the first time.

Small Bumps Are Temporary

Maybe you are just having some small bumps in the road with your teenager. Let me assure you, most immature behavior is just that — immaturity. They will grow out of it as they mature and as they come up against the consequences for wrong decisions. And they’ll mature more quickly if you empower them to take on more responsibility for their own life. Give them ample opportunity to make errors in judgment early on, when you still have some control over them in your home. Letting go doesn’t mean backing off completely. It simply means allowing the teenager to make more and more decisions on their own, and to have more and more freedoms. When they make mistakes, or overstep your household boundaries, it is still a parent’s responsibility to dole out the consequences as a means of discipline, which will prevent them from making the same mistake again and again. For that is how teenagers learn.

Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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Macon East Academy is an independent, college preparatory school, committed to providing students with a safe, nurturing environment that promotes academic achievement, patriotism, and belief in God through Christian values. Our accelerated curriculum is complemented by offerings in performing and visual arts, music, foreign language, and over 20 interscholastic sports, as well as a 1:1 Apple iPad program for students in grades K5 - 12. At Macon East, our students are held to high standards in all areas of student life, and Christian values are reinforced throughout all school programs. Small class sizes and a safe, nurturing environment give every student the opportunity to excel. Macon East is more than a school; we are a family. Schedule a campus tour today, and find out why Macon East is the right school for your student.

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MACON EAST ACADEMY 15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, Alabama 36013 Telephone: 334.277.6566 Web: maconeast.net l

Leadership scholarship opportunities are available. 51

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think for themselves. Ask your children open-ended questions to hear their points of view. “Find out what they’re thinking. What you want to do is stimulate their analytic, natural human curiosity,” says Dr. Fran Walfish, a child and family psychotherapist and author of The Self Aware Parent: Resolving Conflict and Building a Better Bond with Your Child. Watch the speeches and debates together. Ask your child who he thinks is telling the truth based on body language or who seems more respectful during a debate. Whether you agree or not, ask her: “Why do you feel that way? How would you solve the problem?” Share your opinions with your children by prefacing your comments with “I feel” or “I think” and ask questions like: “I wonder how he’ll make that happen? What do you think? How would you make it fair if you were president?”

vigorous dinner party debates to divisive Facebook exchanges, tis’ the season when there’s virtually no escape from politics. Your kids may come home with questions about opinions overheard at school or elsewhere. From a parenting perspective, the democratic process--and political shenanigans--provides plenty of fodder for teaching kids lessons in independent thinking, respectful

Avoid anger. As hard as it may be, try to refrain from making judgmental comments or calling candidates with whom you disagree colorful names. “Shouting at the TV, or at one another, presents a very negative example of responding to conflicting opinions,” says Mary Jane McKittrick, author of the

discourse, values and civics. Nurture independent thinkers. Take advantage of the political process to help your children learn to

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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Boomer and Halley children’s series (written for ages 4 to 8), including the Mom’s Choice award-winning book Boomer and Halley: Election Day. Through humor and embedded life lessons, McKittrick’s books tell stories of families and communities resolving difficult challenges by working together.

Model respectful dialogue. Not all parents agree on politics, but what matters is how they discuss the issues in front of their children without raising a child’s anxiety. Make ground rules with your spouse before engaging in the discussion: No interrupting, take turns listening and no put-downs, insults or blaming. And, if you come to an impasse, agree to disagree. “I would love for parents to respect each others points of view. I would also hope that they will respect their children’s point of view,” Walfish says. “Be able to tolerate differences. We still love each other, and I can tolerate you having powerfully different feelings than mine.” If you find yourself getting drawn into a heated argument around the table with loved ones, keep your cool and suggest you pick up the conversation at another time.

Play nice--in politics?! Political rhetoric may be difficult for your child to comprehend, but behavior in politics can often parallel real-life situations your child can relate to about how we should treat each other and who we can trust. “Here we are: two political figures. They’re going to say their beliefs right out front, but wouldn’t it be nice if that was all they were doing,” Walfish says. “Instead what they’re doing is using put-downs, criticisms, (and) willing to go forward at all costs to win.” Perhaps the vindictive nature of politics will never change, but parents can use examples of how politicians conduct themselves to teach values about what it means to win honorably, treat others with respect and be a trustworthy friend. For example, on the playground, a child might promise your child that he can have the ball next, but then passes the ball to an ally or continues to hog the ball. Even a young child understands that the other child’s actions are unfair. “A good friend is someone who treats you right all of the time. And that’s what we’re looking for in politics,” Walfish says. “And a lot of times people will say anything to get what they want, which is to win. Our job is to try to figure out who’s telling the truth, who’s going to deliver on the goods.” Civics 101. Talk to your kids about the democratic process. Take your child to the voting booth and follow the results on election night together to help her see the election process in action and the connection between your vote and why it matters. Explain that politicians are public servants and they usually enter the political process in an attempt to make a difference in the lives of citizens. “Parents can offer examples from their lives to illustrate giving to others as a positive way to explain politics,” McKittrick says. “After all, politics exist in our families, communities, schools and workplaces--not just at the ballot box.” mp Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines, resides with her opinionated family, which includes her husband, two rambunctious boys and a pair of playful dogs. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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10 Ways the Web Can Help Thrifty Families The number of websites promising to help families save money has grown almost as fast as the number of Americans who need to trim their budgets. Unfortunately, not all of those websites deliver on their promise. Many of the Save!Save!Save! websites actually have something to sell. Some even charge for things like credit reports that families can get free from other sources. Other websites make you pay in time, forcing visitors to navigate through one adfilled screen after another searching for nuggets of helpful information. Parents, of course, need to save time as well as money. The ten tips that follow are designed to give you maximum control over the money you have. Zero in on the places where your budget needs help, and you’ll find relevant websites that are free, useful and easy to use. 1. Make a Budget. Lots of websites help you track your money. At mint.com, for example, you can enter passwords for bank accounts as well as credit cards, making it possible for the site to categorize and track everything you spend. If that seems like overkill, check out the paper and pencil budget forms available at frugalliving.about.com, a website that has tons of tips about living well with less. 2. Look for structural savings. So-called “fixed” expenses aren’t nearly as fixed as they used to be. At lowermybills.com and bankrate.com, you can compare rates for utilities, credit card companies and even mortgage lenders. Other sites are more specialized. Use saveonphone. com to untangle the complicated packages offered by cellphone companies or billshrink.com to compare credit card deals.

Even though the deals may be terrific, you’ll still be tempted to spend money on things you may not need simply because the price is right. The same rule applies to so-called “deal” sites where “Only 2 Left At this Price!” tags may trigger impulsive spending. 4. Do your homework.

Before making any purchase over $25, check a price comparison site like pricegrabber.com to find out what the item “should” cost. If you’re trying to save money on an auction site like Ebay, visit honesty.com first so you’ll recognize bargains when you see them. 5. Be smart when you spend online. If the going

price for something is beyond your budget, put what you’re willing to pay into pricespider.com and let their bots e-mail you when they find a deal on what you want. Then look for coupons at coupon sites like retailmenot.com or couponmountain.com. Avoid shipping charges with the codes at freeshipping.org. And register your purchase on priceprotectr.com. They’ll send you an e-mail if they spot the product at a lower price and many retailers will refund the difference. 6. Eat for less. Cutting your food budget means spending less on the food you buy and choosing recipes that get maximum nutrition per dollar. Like many other grocery sites, mygrocerydeals.com lists the specials at local stores after you’ve registered and provided your zip code. This site also lets you search for online coupons, check nutritional information and even search by item so that, for instance, you’ll know who has the best deal on peanut butter this week. For frugal recipes, try cheapcooking.com, a website that doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles--just hearty family friendly recipes that don’t call for costly ingredients.

3. Control discretionary spending. If you’re

serious about sticking to a budget, don’t even visit sites like overstock.com and woot.com. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

7. Save on energy. Energy prices may fluctuate but, the pay-off strategy in the long-term 54

is to cut consumption. To make your home more efficient, take the time to work through the calculations at The Home Energy Saver (http:// hes.lbl.gov/). To be sure you are getting the best price on gasoline, visit the price data map at Fueleconomy.gov (http://tinyurl.com/4fnot). 8. Indulge in free stuff. If you were dependent on retail therapy to improve your mood, it’s time to make the switch to freebie hunting. At sites like The Absurdly Cool Freebie Finder (www. absurdlycool.com) and Hey It’s Free (www. heyitsfree.com), you’ll find all kinds of things you never knew you wanted. Of course, nothing is truly free. In some cases, there will be shipping charges. In others, you’ll give up contact information. Either way, you’ll pay less for your consumer high. 9. Bypass cash. The Internet has made it much easier to swap things you don’t want for things you need. Freecycle.org lets members post both “Have” and “Want” listings. Dignswap.com sets up exchanges between women who have things they don’t wear in their closets. At Swaptree.com, registered users can trade books, videos, games and other items. 10. Learn tips and tricks. Saving money doesn’t have to be a grim business. You can, for example, recruit the kids to search for coupons and give them a percentage of what they help you save. Or you can visit thriftyfun.com, a lively site filled with craft projects that can be made from odds and ends most people already have on hand. Or you can get the e-mail newsletter from stretcher.com, a website that’s been collecting ideas about getting the most from every dollar since 1996. Join frugalvillage.net, a community where moms cheerfully share their ideas about thrifty family management. Although no website can tell you how much you “should” be saving, visiting any of these thrifty websites will provide encouragement and even inspiration. And, you’ll know you’re not the only family trying to make sense of the new economic landscape by doing more with less. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved

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A Page in a Book The Trouble with Toys From early childhood, toys are a central fixture in most kids’ lives. Playthings are the first thing children turn their thoughts to upon waking, the items that demand their attention throughout the day, and often the objects of comfort that join them in bed as they fall asleep. But like any constant companion, toys can also have their moments when they become vexing. Toys get lost, sometimes they break, they collect underfoot (see: Lego™) making us unhappy for a little while. The following titles touch on both the moments when toy frustration peaks, as well as solutions that bring our beloved toys back into the fold.

Too Many Toys

by Heidi Deedman (Candlewick) Lulu was gifted with a very special toy when she was just a baby, her one-and-only teddy bear Jupiter, whom she loved very much. But as more birthdays and holidays arrived, so did more toys. By the time Lulu is five-years-old, toys are overflowing her shelves, crowding her at bath time and making it impossible to actually play with every one of them. After discarding several creative ideas, Lulu crafts a plan that will relocate her toys and give her more time with her one-and-only, Jupiter. One solution solves the problems of both a child with a surplus of toys and a host of children who may have a deficit of playthings. A delightful exploration of generosity from both ends, Too Many Toys highlights the importance of balance between too much and just enough.

Finding Monkey Moon

by Elizabeth Pulford, Illustrated by Kate Wilkinson (Candlewick) Michael’s bedtime is on approach, but his constant companion Monkey Moon is missing. As he and his dad turn the house upside down searching, Michael’s worries for this lost friend begin to amplify. Father and son retrace their steps through a darkening park on their mission to find Monkey Moon. The park at night reveals new sights, but no sighting of Micheal’s missing friend. When the discouraged pair turn toward home the last bit of light glints upon something hidden in the bushes, something that could be a sight for sore eyes. A testament to teamwork and tenacity when an important friend goes missing, Finding Monkey Moon is a hopeful and uplifting journey from lost to found.

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Stuck

by Oliver Jeffers (Philomel / Penguin) Floyd’s simple plan to fly his kite barely gets off the ground when his kite gets stuck in a tree. Throwing his favorite shoe at the stranded kite doesn’t knock it down, but instead it gets stuck with the kite in the branches. His second favorite shoe soon joins the group aloft. Maddened with frustration, Floyd begins launching anything he can find up into the tree to get his kite unstuck. A ladder, a can of paint, a cat, the milkman, and an orangutan join an increasingly more ridiculous progression of things – all hurled into the tree to knock the previous (now stuck) items from the high branches. But when Floyd approaches the tree with one final thing – it may be just the ticket to getting his kite released. Readers will appreciate Jeffers’ sublimely absurd illustration of a boy’s escalating mission to retrieve his special kite. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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In addition to being a short-order cook, housekeeper, and 24/7 chauffeur, I’m also my kids’ #1 fear-fighter. I check under their beds for bad guys and stick my arm in the toy bin “to make sure the crab isn’t real.” Almost every day my kids ask for help with scary situations. My daughter believes zombies live in our attic and my son swears he’s seen a green ghost in my bedroom. I tell them, “Monsters are just pretend,” but neither child believes me. They’re convinced that danger lurks in the darkness. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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unintentionally feed kids’ fears by reassuring them they have nothing to worry about,” Wendt warns. The best approach is problem-solving. Here are some ways to do it.

Where Fears Come From

Kids’ fears are as unique as their personalities. Many young kids are afraid of animals and insects (dogs, snakes, spiders), characters in costumes (beware Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny), and things that go bump in the night. Others fear loud noises or believe they’ll be sucked down the toilet when it flushes. Even kids who don’t believe in the boogeyman may fret about schoolyard bullies. “Some kids are more fearful than others because they are born with a predisposition to worry,” says San Diego, Calif., clinical psychologist Joanne Wendt, PhD. Other fears grow in response to trauma. For example, a child may start to fear bees after being stung himself or seeing a classmate get stung on the playground. A little information can be dangerous: Kids who learn about killer bees may believe backyard bumblebees are mini-mercenaries. Adult role models can also fuel kids’ fears. A mom who is deathly afraid of escalators may pass along her anxieties by telling kids moving stairs are slippery and insisting the whole family take the elevator. “Kids look to parents for cues about whether a situation is safe,” says Tamar Chansky, PhD, author of Freeing Your Child from Anxiety. “Parents need to be mindful of the signals they send so they don’t send fearful messages about objects or situations that are basically safe, or can be managed,” she says.

Identify the issue. When your child comes to you for help with a fear, engage in some critical thinking. Questions like “Why are you afraid of this spider?” and “Have you been hurt by a spider in the past?” encourage your child define her fear more clearly. Once she’s defined her fear, she can start to question its legitimacy. Teach kids to think twice. First, ask your child what worry is telling him about the situation, using a funny voice or puppet to represent worry. “Then, using his ‘smarter mind,’ ask your child what he really thinks will happen,” Chansky says. A worry might be saying, “The 6th-grade bully will toss me in the trash can,” but your child’s smarter side knows, “The trash can has a locked cover.” Fight scary with silly. Have your child draw a picture of the thing that scares her. Then, do a goofy makeover. The hairy monster in your daughter’s closet will look a lot less frightening wearing a ballet tutu and hair curlers. Coach your child to imagine the monster slipping on a banana peel or falling off a cliff. “This allows her to take charge of her fear and her imagination,” Chansky says. Practice self-soothing. Kids can learn breathing and muscle relaxation techniques to calm themselves. The easiest strategy is to breathe in slowly while counting to four and breathe

Fight Fears Together

Dismissing kids’ concerns isn’t the answer. “Parents can

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out while counting to seven. This focuses your child’s attention and puts him back in control. “Repeating a special word, phrase or affirmation, such as ‘I can handle this,’ also eases anxiety,” Wendt says. Practice these calming behaviors every day so they become automatic.

Outsmart Anxieties Research and logic can help kids shrink fears down to size. “Have your child write down three facts about his feared situation to put it in perspective,” says licensed professional counselor Neil McNerney, LPC, of Reston, Va. A child who is afraid of thunder storms might note:

When your child feels overwhelmed, allow him to step back and observe the scary situation from a distance. Before long, he’ll probably be ready to reengage.

If Ghosts Won’t Go

All kids have occasional worries, but some suffer from intense and persistent fears. Step it up. Use a technique “Anxiety disorders are the most called systematic desensitization 1) Thunder makes a loud boom, common psychiatric disorders, to approach the feared situation but it can’t hurt me. affecting between 10 and 17 gradually. “Make a simple drawing 2) I can keep myself safer by staying inside percent of children and teens,” of a stairway from the side view during a storm. Chansky says. “They are also the and put your child’s goal at the 3) The odds of being struck by lightning most treatable.” Using cognitivetop,” Chansky says. Then start at are only 1 in 700,000. behavioral therapy, kids can learn the bottom and write in steps from to turn down their over-reactive the least to most threatening. For Bottom line: Fear is a healthy response to a emotion systems and teach their example, a child whose goal is to brains new tricks. pet a dog might start by looking dangerous world. Encourage your child to If your child’s fears keep her at pictures of dogs, visiting a pet learn from it. from enjoying everyday activistore or animal shelter and letting ties at home and at school, reach a dog sniff her hand. Remind your out to your pediatrician or school child to take deep breaths as anxipsychologist. A professional fear-buster can help your child say eties escalate. “Boo!” to ghosts and other childhood anxieties. mp Be patient. Forcing kids to confront their fears when they aren’t ready will only increase their anxiety. Talk about your own Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mom. She is the author of Detachment Parenting: 33 Ways to Keep Your Cool When Kids Melt Down. insecurities and model a courageous approach to the unknown.

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Distinguished Young Women Celebrate Heroes

DYW (Distinguished Young Women) wave their American flags in honor of heroes of 9-11. This year’s scholarship program will be October 9 and 10 at Frazer Church. Pictured here are contestants and little sisters.

Girl Scouts Seeking Adult Volunteers

At the youngest ages, girls face both personal and societal obstacles that keep them from reaching their full potential. The ability of Girl Scouts, the leading expert on girls, to provide fun and enriching experiences is more important than ever. Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama is here to lead southern Alabama’s girls into the future. The Girl Scout Research Institute’s “State of the Girl” details realities for many girls in Alabama. Girls in Alabama ranked 30th in terms of overall well-being. Girls ranked 21st in terms of emotional health, 33rd in physical health and safety, 34th in economic well-being, and 42nd in education. The report also notes that roughly 26 percent of school age girls in the state are currently living in poverty and around 8 percent of girls, ages 6 to 17, have experienced some form of neighborhood violence. These numbers leave much room for improvement. This report is the first of its kind to focus exclusively on girls, which allows Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama to direct its efforts of bettering their lives. With programs focusing in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), financial literacy, healthy eating and exercise, and reading readiness, the Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama has a positive impact on every girl we come into contact with. However, with decreases in funding and a lack of volunteers, our ability to serve girls is in serious jeopardy. Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama has the tools it takes to instill leadership skills into the girls of our future, but volunteers are needed to put these tools to use. Adult volunteers are vital for the survival of Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama in continuing the mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. For more information on how to volunteer or become Girl Scout contact Jennifer Thrash, director of membership development, at 800-239-6636 or jthrash@girlscoutssa.org.

Family Karate Center Teaches Children of Pike Road About Safety

Master Carole Smith of The Family Karate Center teaches her students each month about safety from predators and how to handle aggressive bullies. She would like to extend an offer to the students of Pike Road School to be given a free lesson for playing such a great role in children’s safety. Smith, a 7th degree black belt, has been training and teaching martial arts for 45 years here in Montgomery, and is always honored to share her knowledge of children’s awareness tips with your child. Family Karate Center provides free demonstrations of child safety for your school, day care, adult group and business meetings. Call 220-9319 today to try free classes any day of the week.

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& Halloween Fun Camp Chandler Halloween Carnival October 22 from 5-8 p.m. Admission is $5.00 per child. Come out and join us for a night of carnival games, raffle tickets, inflatables, Little Pumpkin Playhouse in Lions Lodge, facer painting, hayrides to Waterfront for Marshmallow Roasting, Concessions and cake walk, Haunted House and a costume contest. Call 567.4933. Please check with your local YMCA for other fall festivals.

Capri Classics: An American Werewolf in London Thursday, October 13 The Capri Theatre, 1045 East Fairview Avenue The Capri Theatre presents the classic movie An American Werewolf in London.

Creatures of the Night at Alabama Nature Center October 15 * 4-6:30 p.m. Bring the family and join us for a Halloween-themed evening under the stars, hosted by the ANC and Reality Connection. Activities will include a slithering snake encounter, black lighting for insects, ewwy gooey touch table, flashlight spider search and night hike, and a movie under the stars! S’mores are complimentary for the movie. Bring a blanket or chairs. All ages, but recommended for ages 5 and up. Admission: $5. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call 1-800-822-9453.

Fall Harvest Market at The Shoppes at Eastchase The Fall Harvest Market will take place each Saturday morning ending October 22nd. Shoppers will continue to find unique, local items such as organic meats and goat cheese, pumpkins, honey, cakes, and seasonal vegetables and fruits. For more information, visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com or call 334-279-6046.

Halloween Candy Walk Thursday, October 27th at 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. Downtown Main Street, Prattville. Free admission. Fun filled event for all children through 3rd grade. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

The event is free but we ask that you make a donation of a non-perishable food item for the Autauga Interfaith Care Center Food Bank. Call (334) 595.0851 or visit www.prattville.com.

Halloween in Hampstead October 31 starting at 4:30 Celebrate Halloween in Hampstead! Bring the whole family for kids’ activities. For more info, call (334) 546-2282 or visit Facebook.com/HampsteadLiving.

Haunted Hearse Tours of Montgomery (334) 514.4457 Come along with us on a ride through Montgomery’s dark history. You will visit places of those souls who according to legend won’t or can’t rest. Listen to our ghostly tales of events, some long past, that happened along the quiet streets of the Capitol City. You will tour Montgomery’s most macabre locations in a real hearse. Tours will leave The Alley every hour on the hour beginning each evening in October starting at 7:00pm; the last tour is at midnight each night. Reservations are strongly suggested due to the limited seating capacity. Call us and make your reservation and our “hearsetess” will meet you at the water tank at The Alley and get you prepared for the tour. The cost is $15.00 per person, cash only please. Please visit us at http://www.hauntedhearsemgm.com/.

Haunting on the Harriott II Riverwalk, Montgomery, Saturday, October 29. (334) 625-2100. Boarding at 8:00pm, Cruises time 8:30-10:30pm. Tickets $25/Adult, Ages 21 and over only. Live entertainment, Cash Bar, Costume Contest with prizes and more!

Judgment House

ad on page 7 4003 Eastern Blvd., October 12, 15-16, 19, 21, 22-23, 26-31 from 6-9 p.m. The ministry of Judgment House spans over 29 years with its roots tied to Montgomery. River Region Judgment House is a God centered drama which focuses on the triumphs and tragedies 62

faced in the lives of today’s youth and young adults. All aspects of this ministry are based on Biblical principles and teachings. Please visit us at www.judgmenthouse.org.

South Montgomery Academy’s Haunted Hayride in the Forest 12900 Mt. Zion Road, Ramer. Come take the ride of your life and see if you too can return from the deep dark forest. October 15-6, 21-23 and 28-30. Gates open at 6:30 and close at 12 a.m. on Friday & Sat. nights and 10 p.m. on Sundays. Parking is $2.00 and Entrance fee is $10. Concessions available. Please visit www.hauntedhayrideintheforest. com or call (334) 562.3409.

Trick or Pink at The Shoppes at EastChase Trick or Pink! Come together for a night of family fun at The Shoppes at EastChase on Monday, October 29, from 5 – 7 p.m. There will be a Pink Pumpkin Patch, Halloween costume contest, Face painting, Food + Drinks, Music, Games, and Halloween Fun! For more information, visit www. theshoppesateastchase.com or call 334-279-6046.

United Gymstar and Cheer Annual Trunk or Treat

ad on page 71 6100 Brewbaker Blvd., Montgomery Friday, October 28, 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm Cost is $30 for the first child and $25 for each additional sibling. T-shirt included. Pizza and soda provided. Call 284.2244 for more info or visit www.unitedgymstarandcheer.com.

Wetumpka’s First Haunted History Tours October 26-29 * 7-10 p.m. nightly Experience the rich history of Wetumpka’s historic downtown buildings and listen to hairraising personal experiences of paranormal occurrences in the buildings by taking a haunted history tour! Book your tour by contacting Jamie at (334) 567-4811 or jyoung@wetumpkachamber.org. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Zoo Boo: Montgomery Zoo

ad on page 63 www.montgomeryzoo.com; October 13-16, 20-23 and 27-31. 6:00-9:00pm. A safe alternative to Halloween, ZooBoo provides a fun-filled evening of games, treats, and costumed characters, Enjoy education presentations, and the traditional haunted ride.

Fall Farms Backyard Orchards 6585 Hwy 431 North, Eufaula, AL (334) 370.6490 U-Pick It Farm with fresh fruits, veggies and pumpkins! Fall Festival September 24– October 30th. Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze. Please visit backyardorchards.com for more information.

Corn Dodgers Farm 1555 Knowles Road, Headland, AL www.corndodgersfarm.com. Open weekends September 24 through October 30 for the 2016 maze season. Corn cannon, hay rides, pony rides, cow train, corn crib, 7 acre corn maze, giant jumping pillow and more!

Cornfield Country Farms Pumpkin Patch

ad on page 55 Located in the Elmore County community of Redland at the intersection of Redland Road & Willow Springs Road. Pumpkin Patch, Corn Maze, Sunflower Maze and more. Also booking

Bonfires and Birthday Parties. Church groups welcome! Open September 24-October 30, Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, Sundays 1 pm to 5 pm. Weekdays and groups by appointment only. Call 334.850.7084 or visit www.cornfieldcountryfarms.com.

Cotton Pickin’ Pumpkin Patch

ad on page 66 Lazenby Farm, 11546 Lee Rd. 54, Auburn. 334-321-7946, www.lazenbyfarm.com; Saturdays, October 15, 22, and 29; 10:00am6:00pm. Open during the week for field trips. Hayrides, pick a pumpkin/cotton, corn maze, corn crib, pony rides, country store and more. Call to schedule your group, schools, daycare, or parties!

Dream Field Farms

ad on page 66 6376 Highway 82, Union Springs, AL (334) 534.6976, www.dreamfieldfarms.com; Pumpkin patch-pick in the field, train rides, corn maze, child-sized haybale maze, corn cannon, tractor-pulled hay rides, inflatables, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, farm animals and more. October 1 – October 31.

Farmer in the Dell Pumpkin Patch On Wire Road 6 miles west of the Vet School. (334) 750.3792. Pick your pumpkins off the vine, enjoy the hay bale play area, ride the hay ride, pick sunflowers, dig in the corn trough, farm animals, bring your blanket, purchase a hotdog meal and enjoy the picnic outdoors.

Jack-O-Lantern Lane at The Oaks L.L.C. 18151 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Lafayette, AL (334), 864.0713. Pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, tractor-pulled hay rides, wagon rides, petting zoo, inflatable park, train rides, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, face painting, and more. Friday 12:005:00pm; Saturday 9:00am-6:00pm; Sunday 12:00-6:00pm. Also available by reservation Monday-Friday for school, church, daycare field trips and more. Please visit us at www. jackolanternlane.com.

Paradise Pumpkin Patch

ad on page 64 910 County Road 79 South, Eufaula, AL (334) 695.2258. Pumpkin Patch, Petting zoo, Cow Trains and Hayrides, Farm Playground, Giant Corn Box, Cotton pickin and more! Open for Fall Season on October 1st. Saturdays 9 am-6 pm and Sundays 11-6 pm. Special event dates and field trips available Monday-Friday. www.paradisepumpkinpatch.com.

The Pumpkin Patch Express Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, Calera, AL www.hodrrm.org; Every Saturday and Sunday in October. Train boards and departs Saturdays 10:00am, 1:00pm, and 3:00pm; and Sundays 1:00pm and 3:00pm. Enjoy an autumn train ride aboard the Pumpkin Patch Express that lasts approximately 1 1/2 hours, including our time at the Pumpkin Patch. Snacks and soft drinks are available for purchase. Pick the perfect pumpkin from the patch for an additional fee. Reservations recommended.

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The Pumpkin Patch at Barber Berry Farm 2362 Alabama River Parkway, Millbrook, AL www.barberberryfarm.com; October 8-30. Hayride, pumpkin patch, pick your own pesticidefree fruit and veggies. Hours of operation are Saturdays, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays, 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Admission is $3.00 and a field pumpkin is $4.00.

School Festivals Alabama Christian Academy Fall Festival

ad on page 2 and 69 Thursday, November 10th, from 3-6 p.m. Inflatables, Pony rides, games and more. They will have a silent auction and Country Kitchen and chili cook off. Each class sponsors games for children of all ages. Concessions will be available. Admission is $5. Please call 277.1985 for information.

Autauga Academy PTA Fall Festival Saturday, October 22 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Autauga Academy Gymnasium. Dinner, Games, Haunted Trail. Come join us for an evening of fun! Call (334) 365.4343.

Bear Exploration Center Fall Family FunFest Tuesday, October 18th, 3:40 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., At the Bear Exploration Center sporting field. Preschool age children and parents are free. Wristbands are available for purchase at the gate.

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Concessions will be available for purchase. Fun activities for all ages will include Pony Rides and Hay Rides, Inflatable’s, Karaoke, Face Painting, Bead Art, games and so much more. Come join the fun! Everyone is welcome. 2525 Churchill Dr. near the intersection of Woodley Road and McGehee Road. Please call 284.8014.

Edgewood Academy Fall Festival (334) 567.5102, 5475 Elmore Road, Elmore, AL Tuesday, October 25, 5-8 p.m. Carnival, games, cake walk, hayride, inflatables, and much more. Costume contest divided by age group. Ticket prices at the door.

Hooper Academy Fall Festival ad on page Thursday, October 27, 5 to 7 pm 380 Fischer Road, Hope Hull $10 per child, for kids 6th grade and under. Trunk or treat, inflatables, cake walk, toy walk, and more. Haunted house $2. Concessions will be available for purchase. 7 pm Halloween Blacklight show by Hooper Varsity Cheer and Dance ($5 admission, recommended for 6th grade and up).

Arts & Crafts/Fall Festivals

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5th Annual Make a Memory Day

ad on page 41 Free Fall Family Fun Outdoor Event taking place at the Union Station Train Shed at 300 Water Street in downtown Montgomery on Sunday, October 16th from 1-4 pm. October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, as well as the birth month of Wendy & Nathan’s baby boy, Owen. Continuing H.A.L.O’s goal of educating and raising public awareness regarding such loss, H.A.L.O’s Make A Memory Day is a free event and everyone is welcome. The event will feature live music by Larry Arrington, Life Through Colors and Surviving the Fall. Enjoy: Live characters, face painting, balloon twisting, games, pumpkin patch, bounce houses, refreshments. Families are encouraged to come out to enjoy a time of togetherness and fun. Please no Halloween costumes or pets. Event T-shirts available for a donation to H.A.L.O. For more information about H.A.L.O., please visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org.

Montessori Academy Fall Festival 1025 South Hull Street Friday, October 21, 5:45 to 7:45 p.m. Pony rides, Inflatables, Face Painting, Cup Cake Walk, Games and Prizes. Admission fee charged. Alumni and grandparents are always welcome. Call 262.8685 for information.

8th Annual Charis Crafters “Home for the Holiday” Craft Show November 10-12. Wetumpka Civic Center Tickets are available in advance and at the door. One ticket is good for all three-show days! Door prizes will be given away every hour. The Craft

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Show features a variety of handmade items as well as homemade delight available for purchase. These pieces are perfect for gift giving, home decor and Holiday decorating!

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21st Annual Arts on the River 1100 Block of Broadway, Columbus, Ga. October 15. 11:00am-5:00pm. The fine art show and sale includes paint, photography, handthrown pottery, and sculpture, with some artists performing live demonstrations. Free.

23rd Annual Alabama Cotton Festival October 29th from 8:00 a.m. -2 p.m. Eclectic, AL Vendors will line Main Street with a wide variety of delectable food and unique wares as live music is played. The festival also features a variety of contests, including a car show, photography and art contests and the annual taste-off to see who can bake the best Sweet Treat. Registration forms for each contest can be found either in the front lobby of the Eclectic Municipal Building at 145 Main Street in Eclectic. Please visit townofelectic.com.

26th Annual Christmas Made in the South Columbus Convention & Trade Center, Ga. www.madeinthesouthshows.com; October 28-30. Amazing craftspeople, outstanding art, unique gourmet food, and diverse entertainment to whet and satisfy every demanding appetite. Handmade, one-of-a-kind designs populate the booths that fill the festival: silk wearables to fabric bags, glass jewelry to close-up photography of nature’s funniest and fiercest creatures all await and more! Adults $7.00, Children 12 & under-Free; admission good for all 3 days.

36th Annual Oktoberfest Charles E. Bailey, Sr. Sportplex, Alexander City, AL. www.alexandercityonline.com; October 8. Day-long celebration features local arts and crafts, great food, entertainment, Kid-Fest children’s activities, sports programs, antique car show and much more. A Native American Artifact show is our newest showcase.

38th Annual Alabama Tale Tellin’ Festival Presented by ArtsRevive October 14-15. 5:30 p.m. Hear tales told by popular storytellers Norton Dill, Suzi “Mama” Whaples and Pat Nease will headline the event. The family friendly event returns to the Carneal Cultural Arts Center, 3 Church Street, Selma, AL, and features stories, music and lots of laughter! The Swappin’ Ground, where amateurs can tell their own tales, starts a 6 on Friday and follows the Dixieland Cloggers on Saturday with the main event at 7 p.m. both nights. Sponsored by ArtsRevive, admission is $15 for adults for one night, $10 for students Tickets will be sold at the door or in advance through PayPal. Call 334-878-2787, email info@artsrevive.com or visit artsrevive.com, and find ArtsRevive on Facebook.

45th Annual Harvest Day Festival Headland, AL October 8, 9am-3pm. This fun-filled event takes place downtown in and around the beautiful city square. The day features arts and crafts, a car show, children’s games and rides, a variety of food vendors, and live entertainment throughout the day. Local shops and restaurants will also

have special offers and sales. Please visit www. headlandal.com for more information.

45th Annual National Shrimp Festival Gulf Shores, Al. October 13-16. Over 300 vendors that offer fine art, arts and crafts, a retail marketplace and of course, SHRIMP!!

50th Annual Pike Road Arts & Crafts Fair Historic Marks House, Pike Road, Al. November 5, 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. Please visit us at www.pikeroadartsandcraftsfair.com for more information.

53rd Annual Bluff Park Art Show Bluff Park Community Center, 517 Cloudland Dr. Hoover, Al. October 1. 9:00am-5:00pm. Sponsored by the Bluff Park Art Association and includes more than 130 local and national artists displaying fine art for sale. Bring the kids to enjoy some hands on art fun. Free admission, parking and shuttles. Please visit our website at www. bluffparkartassociation.org for more information.

60th Annual Central Alabama Fair Lion’s Fair Park, 2401 W. Dallas Ave. Selma, Al. October 3-8. Fun-filled event offering a midway with rides, entertainment, beauty pageant, agricultural exhibits, livestock judging and a competition for local arts, crafts, canning, sewing, and more! Please visit www.centralalabamafair.com for more information.

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62nd Annual Cullman County Fair September 22-October 1. Thrilling rides, amazing exhibits, and the best in local and regional entertainment. Please visit www.cullmanfair.com for more information.

62nd Alabama National Fair Garret Coliseum, Montgomery, Al. October 28-November 6. Midway rides, main stage entertainment including Collective Soul, Hunter Hayes, En Vogue, Eli Young Band and Cameo, food, information and commercial booths, kids area, livestock and other competition, family faith day, and more! Please visit www.alnationalfair. org for more information.

69th Annual Lee County Fair US 431 near Opelika High. 334-749-3353. September 27-October 1. Livestock shows, contests, exhibits, pageants, rides and much more.

73rd Annual National Peanut Festival November 4-13, located 5622 U.S. Hwy. 231 S., Dothan, AL. Headliners Dustin Lynch, Chase Bryant, Old Dominion and Big Stage Regional Bands. Livestock exhibits, competitions, demolition derby, crafts, food preservation, recipe contests, entertainment, carnival rides, sea lion show, and much more! Please visit www.nationalpeanutfestival.com for more information.

Alabama Gourd Festival October 15-16, Cullman Civic Center. Theme: Gourds from the Heart. Annual festival features gourd arts and crafts, such as birdhouses, musical instruments and decorated gourds. Please

visit www.alabamagourdsociety.org for more information.

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Alexander City Fall Family 7\ Festival

October 31 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.,Russell Crossroads, Alexander City, Al. Join friends and neighbors for pumpkin painting, a costume contest, wagon rides and more, courtesy of Russell Lands on Lake Martin. Please visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com for more information.

Boll Weevil Festival October 29 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.,Enterprise, Al. Arts and crafts vendors, variety of music, food, children’s costume contest and activities, farmers market, car show, family entertainment. www.enterprisedowntown.org

Christmas Village Festival November 2-6 at the Jefferson Convention Complex, Birmingham. 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

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Cotton Pickin’ County Fair October 1-2 in Gay, Ga. Return to 1910 where the Farmhouse, the Cotton Gin, and the Cotton Warehouse form a unique backdrop for a great day of 21st century fun. Amidst skilled artisans and antique specialists, the Fair shares remnants of farm life in days gone by. New talent keeps the festival fresh and interesting while returning artists welcome loyal customers seeking to add to individual collections. Please visit us at www. cpfair.org for more information.

Country Living Fair October 21-23 in Stone Mountain Park, Ga. A fun, folksy and fabulous show and sale of folk art, antiques, “Made in America” crafts, art, furniture, home decor and more. Meet the editors

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of Country Living Magazine, attend seminars and how-to’s, artisan demonstrations, Harvest & Gourmet Market, and fall festivities. Please visit us at www.stonemountainpark.com.

Fall Farm Day & Festival October 15 at Landmark Park, Dothan. Learn how peanuts were harvested in the Wiregrass a half-century ago. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of cane grinding, syrup making, butter churning, basket weaving, soap making and other traditional farm activities. Plus, food, music and antique tractors and farm equipment. Please visit our website www.landmarkparkdothan.com.

Harvest Hoe Down October 8-9 in Warm Springs, Ga. Enjoy this fall celebration with arts, crafts, good food, entertainment and more! Please visit us at www. warmspringsga.us for more information.

Hummingbird Festival October 15-16 in Hogansville, Ga. Main Street will be bustling with food, crafts, antiques, music, local artists, open storefronts, rides, and activities for the whole family. Visit us on our website at www.hummingbirdfestival.com

Indian Festival & Pow-Wow November 3-6 in Stone Mountain Park, Ga. Experience Native American culture through dance & drum competitions, music, authentic craft demonstrations, cooking samples and storytelling activities. Learn about primitive skills such as flint-napping, bow making, fire starting, open fire cooking and pottery. Find that one-of-a-kind holiday gift in our artists’ marketplace, where world-renowned Native artists and crafters demonstrate their skills and offer items for purchase. Please visit us at www.stonemountainpark.com.

Merry Market October 20-22 at Callaway Conference Center, Campus of West Georgia Technical College, LaGrange, Ga. Thursday: Preview Party and Silent Auction: Enjoy this kick-off event and first chance to buy a variety of items. Your ticket $25 includes food, beverages, music and admission to the market for the entire time the market is open! Friday-Saturday: General Admission tickets $6. Please visit us at www.merrymarketlagrange.com for more information.

Peanut Butter Festival October 29 in Brundidge, AL. A harvest and heritage celebration honoring the town’s proud heritage in the peanut butter industry. The free for all festival features a 5-K Peanut Butter Run, non-stop entertainment, contests, games, exhibits, recipe contest, Peanut Butter Kids Contest and the Nutter Butter Parade and food galore including everything peanut butter. Please visit www.piddle. org for more information.

Pioneer Days October 7-8 at the Pioneer Museum of Alabama, Troy, Al. Horse and wagon rides, trips on the Pioneer Express, Native American camps with demonstrations of candlemaking, spinning, weaving, quiltmaking, blacksmithing, drum, dance, etc. Friday is School Day. www.pioneer-museum.org 67

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Spinners 35th Annual “Pumpkin Patch” Arts & Crafts Show October 22-23 at Spinners Park, Prattville, Al. Exhibitors of original art and crafts from throughout the southeast will display their wares. Food vendors, live entertainment, games, a coloring contest and many other activities for children and youth. Door prizes will be given at intervals during the show. Other events include The Great Pumpkin Race, a 5K/8K Race and a one mile Run/Walk, a motorcycle show, jack-o-lantern contest and more. Free admission and free parking. Please visit www.spinnersprattville.com for information.

The Greater Columbus Fair October 26-November 2 at the Columbus Civic Center, Columbus, Ga. Celebrate the beginning of autumn in the Chattahoochee Valley. Food, rides, games, pageant and more! Visit www. columbusciviccenter.org for more information.

Holiday Shopping 28th Annual Montgomery Junior League 2016 Holiday Market The Multiplex at Cramton Bowl, 220 Hall Street. www.jlmontgomery.com; October 12-15. Start the Winter Holiday Season off right with shopping the Jr. League’s Market. Each year, holiday themed booths set up for a great, one-stop-shop for all your Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years items.

Mistletoe Market Friday, November 4, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

on Saturday, November 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mistletoe Market, a merchant’s market held at the Family Life Center at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church at 511 N. Memorial Drive in Prattville, 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.downtownprattville.com or call 365.7058 for more information.

Prattville Holiday Arts & Craft Show

ad on page 61 One day only, November 12th. Indoor Show from 10am-6pm at Prattville Pickers, 616 Hwy 82 West. Produced by Julianne Hansen, Fine Art & Pottery. Find custom artwork by local artists, pottery, ornaments, soaps/lotions, candles, candy, holiday home decor and much more. Fabulous door prizes. Call 256.476.6016 for more info.

with a bake sale, silent auction, children’s carnival, great concessions, entertainment, and loads of vendors selling unique wares, and the sale of the best cooked Boston Butts in the River Region. Family fun, no admission charged. Come out and help us celebrate Angel Fest. All proceeds go the outreach program of the church!

Blue Ridge Baptist Church 4471 Jasmine Hill Road in Wetumpka Sunday, October 30; A hotdog and chili supper. Trunk or Treat, bouncy houses, fun, games and crafts. Friendly costumes are welcome. Call John Carney at 567.4325 for more information.

Dalraida Baptist Church Annual Family Fall Festival Sunday, October 30, 5:00 until 7:30 p.m. 3838 Wares Ferry Road, Games, Prizes, Food, Hayride, Inflatables and More! Call 272-2412.

Dalraida UMC Fall Festival

Church Events Aldersgate UMC Fall Festival 6610 Vaughn Road, Sunday, October 30th, Time to be announced. Trunk or Treat, Games, prizes, crafts, hayride, inflatables. For information call 272.6152.

Angel Fest October 15 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at St. Michael and All angels Church, 5941 Main Street, Millbrook. We are celebrating 17 years of Angel Fest

October 29th, 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. 3817 Atlanta Highway. Games, food, prizes, costume contest and other surprises. Please Call 272.2190.

East Memorial Baptist Church Family Fun Fall Festival Monday, October 31st, 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1320 Old Ridge Road, Prattville, AL Games, Blow ups and all sorts of fun for the whole family! For info call (334) 365.7500 or visit us at www.eastmemorial.org.

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Eastmont Baptist Church Trunk or Treat

ad on page 61 Sunday, October 30, 4-6 pm in the front parking lot of Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Highway. Bring your little super heroes, princesses, pirates and cowgirls for a FREE, fun and safe alternative to trick-or-treating. Visit www. eastmont.org for more info or call 277-6300.

First Baptist Church Montgomery FamilyFest ad on page 7 Sunday, October 30, 4 to 6 pm 305 S. Perry Street; Free Games, Fun Fellowship, Fantastic Prizes. Wear a fun, happy costume! There will be a hot dog dinner with chips and drink for $3 per person. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/familyfest for more info.

First Baptist Church Prattville Fall Festival

ad on page 67 Sunday, October 30, 4:00-6:00 p.m. Preschool-Sixth Grade; 138 S Washington Street Games, Rides and Prizes! Free admission, popcorn and cotton candy! For more information visit fbcprattville.org or call 365-0606.

FUMC Wetumpka Trunk or Treat Sunday, October 30th at 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. 306 W. Tuskeena Street; Contest, games, concessions, inflatables, cake walk, dunking booth

and treats for all ages. Parents are encouraged to attend with child. Call 567-7865, Email: sean. eiland@gmail.com or www.fumcwetumpka.com.

showing football! For more info: (334)277-1156 or www.harvestfamilychurch.com

FUMC Montgomery Fall Bazaar

Trunk or Treat, Monday, October 31, 6 - 8 p.m. 3454 Firetower Road, Wetumpka Fun for the whole family. Free hot dog supper, hayrides, inflatables, games with prizes, candy and face painting. For more info call 567-4225.

ad on page 26 Wednesday, October 5th. Luncheon $12 | 12:001:00 p.m. Fellowship Hall Featuring Birmingham Harmony Belles Music of the 40’s Shopping & Silent Auction 1:00-7:00 p.m. Wesley Hall Baked Goods • Frozen Foods • Garden Treasures • Gifts & Crafts • Kid’s Closet • Nice as New. Red’s Little School House Bbq Dinner $10 | 5:00-7:00 p.m. Park Avenue Parking Lot Kid’s Chicken Finger Meal: $5 Please call 834-8990 for more information. Tickets can be purchased for $10 by calling the church. First United Methodist Church, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, Montgomery.

Gateway Baptist Church Fall Family Festival Monday, October 31st, 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. 3300 Bell Road, Free admission. Games, popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones and Trunk or treat. Little bit of something for everyone. Call 272-9494 for more information.

Harvest Family Church Trunk or Treat Saturday, October 29th, 4 -5:30 p.m. 7245 Copperfield Drive All superheroes, princesses and minions (and their families!) are invited to stuff their bags with candy and enjoy fun games at a FREE carnival presented by the folks at Harvest Family Church in the Copperfield community. FREE hotdogs will be provided (while they last) and a TV will be

Mulder UMC Fall Festivities

Ridgecrest Baptist Harvest Revival Sunday, October 29 at 6 p.m. 5260 Vaughn Rd, For more info, call 277.0011.

Saint James UMC Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat 9045 Vaughn Road Sunday, October 30th, 5 until 6:30 p.m. Inflatables, candy, hayride, pizzas and much, much more. For info, call Jennifer at 277-3037.

Taylor Road Baptist Church Treats the Town

ad on page 89 1685 Taylor Road, next to Shoppes at Eastchase. Saturday, October 30 and Monday, October 31st. Gates open at 6 p.m. FREE FOOD. Hot dogs, drinks, popcorn, peanuts, cookies, candy, games, hayrides, and family pictures. Family Atmosphere. NO scary costumes please. Call 271-3363 for more info.

Thorington Road Baptist Fall Festival Sunday, October 9th, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. 450 Ray Thorington Road. Come join us for

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inflatables, games, and fun for the entire family. Free! Rain or shine! Call 396.9376.

The New Testament Christian Center Annual Fall Festival

ad on page 68 10300 Highway 80 East (next to Jenkins Brick Company and Buck Masters) Saturday, October 22 at 2 p.m. We will have Hay Rides, Games, Food, Inflatables and much more. For information, call 215.7215 or call Ms. McCall at 717.9009.

Out of Town/ State Fun 13th Annual Pumpkin Festival September 30-October 30 (Fridays-Sundays) in Stone Mountain Park, GA. Take in all of the splendor that autumn provides with attractions, fun-filled games, shows and more. Follow the life sized telling of The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin as you wind your way through Spookley’s A-MAZE-ING Adventure. Join Spookley the Square Pumpkin and lift his friends into the air for a DanceA-Long Party Parade that dances through Crossroads, and then meet him at Spookley’s Pumpkin Patch Meet & Greet. Please visit us at www.stonemountainpark.com for more information.

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

25th Annual Halloween Fairyland

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October 29th at the Tannehill State Park. The Tannehill Halloween Festival, a non-scary fun-filled holiday event focused on the campgrounds, annually attracts over 6,000 visitors, most of them children. Begun in 1992, the event features park-sponsored programs during the afternoon and traditional Halloween candy “trick or treat” stops at more than 200 campsites during the evening. Park events include a moon walk, clowns, face painting, pony rides and sand art. A special tradition is the festival’s annual Halloween Festival tee shirt. Campground site decorations and lights are extensive, creative and surreal. Please visit us at www.tannehill.org for more information.

October 20-23, 27-30 at the Newnan Theatre in Newnan, Ga. Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a smart young man from a respectable family – a man her parents have never met. Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before on the night they meet her ‘normal’ boyfriend and parents. Please visit us at www. newnantheatre.org for more information and tickets.

30th Annual Indian Summer Arts and Crafts Festival October 8-9 in Eufaula, Al. The district will be lined with handmade arts art crafts, perfect for the home, garden or holiday gift giving. Food and all types of games and activities featured. Please visit us at www.eufaulachamber.com for more information.

30th Annual Tour of Southern Ghosts October 14-30 in Stone Mountain Park, Ga. Meet professional storytellers spinning their tales of famous (and not-so-famous) Southern Ghosts along the lantern-lit paths of the Antebellum Plantation grounds- never too frightening and always appropriate for young children. Each night offers a different cast of six storytellers. Please visit www.stonemountainpark.com for more information.

AUsome Amphibians and Reptiles October 23. 4:30-5:30 p.m. at The Forest Ecology Preserve in Auburn. Come learn all about the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found throughout our state. $5 per person, 3 yrs and under free. Please visit www.auburn.edu/preserve for more information.

BOO 21 Halloween Party ‘Monsters Inc’ Benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Alabama October 28. 8:00pm at the B&A Warehouse in Birmingham, Al. Live music, M-80’s singing, costume contest and more. Open to adults 21 yrs and older. Please visit www.boohalloweenparty. com for more information.

Fall Family Fun Days- The Rock Ranch October 8-November 5 at Rock, Ga. Open 10:00am-8:00pm each Saturday, guests will enjoy themed entertainment plus Train Rides, Hay Rides, a Petting Zoo, Zip Lines, Pony Rides, the Pumpkin Cannon, Tiny Town and much more! Cowboy Day- October 8.

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Hot Air Balloon Rally- October 15. The Great Outdoor Adventure- October 22. The ‘Not-So-Spooky’ Halloween Festival- October 29. Pumpkin Destruction Day- November 5. Please visit us at www.therockranch.com for more information.

Fields of Fear Haunted Hayride October 8, 15, 22 and 29 on Freeman Rd, off Highway 49N, Dadeville, Al. What really lurks in the deep hollows of the woods in Central Alabama? On your tour, bring someone you can hold tight because when you dare to venture down the Fields of Fear Hayride, the last thing you want is to be alone. Visit us at www.eaglecreekhayride.com for more information.

Judgement Journey 2016 October 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29 and November 4-5 at 552 Hammett Road, LaGrange, GA ministry of Faith Baptist Church, Judgement Journey was started in 1997 as a method of presenting the events of the end of the world, as the Bible describes them. The vision was to present various ‘scenes’ where each person could experience a multi-sensory presentation of how the Bible describes what is yet to come. The event is held each year on the church campus on a ‘trail’ that meanders around the property. Please visit www.judgementjourney.com for more information.

Owl-O-Ween October 29 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Al. Features

children’s activities, wildlife presentations and educational programs. Free after paid admission to park. Please call 205-663-7930, Ext. 4. For more information.

Pope’s Haunted Farm October 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29 and the 30. Located at 450 Lee Rd 724,Salem, Al. 706-566-7766. Pope’s Haunted Farm has four different events to experience and scare you. Zombie Paintball Safari, Haunted Hayride: The Hunted, Haunted Barn: Times UP!! and Haunted Forest: The Darkness. Please visit www.popeshayride.com for more information and other events.

Sloss Fright Furnace September 30-October 1, 7-8, 13-16, 20-23, 25-31 at the Sloss Furnace in Birmingham at 20 32nd Street North. Let us take you into the deepest, darkest parts of Sloss Furnace. Explore new locations normally closed to the public including the terrifying Boiler Room. Come see why Sloss Fright Furnace is voted one of the top fright attractions around and prepare yourself for the terror that is Slag’s Revenge. Visit www.frightfurnace.com for more information. Be prepared to be scared! Make your way though our newly designed trail including the furnace catwalk, underground tunnels, and new dark passageways that force your group to go single file–leaving you completely exposed. Experience our all new 3D maze, complete with killer clowns and spinning vortex that bring grown men to their knees weeping with fear. Encounter Slag in his inferno, run from deranged serial killers, crawl through

cockroaches, and try to escape chainsaw wielding hillbillies.

Tomb of the Risen Dead September 30-October 27th. Every Friday & Saturday from 6:30-10:30 Admission $8 per person ages 3+ or Combo admission for $20. No refunds will be given for tickets once they’ve been purchased. Our Haunted Halloween Park will feature two incredible haunt attractions: The Labyrinth of Lost Souls and The Tomb of the Risen Dead. The Labyrinth of Lost Souls will be located within our 3/4 acre maze. In The Labyrinth of Lost Souls Attraction each guest will be deciding their own fate and ultimate reward, but not without encountering the assembly of the dead who may long to persuade each and every guest to stray. Our cave will be transformed into the Tomb of the Risen Dead Attraction and our not-so-faint of heart guests will experience a terrifying awakening because the deep is ready to speak. When our thrill seekers exit these attractions they can join in the festival fun and entertainment located on the other side of the park. Please visit www.desotocavernspark.com for more information.

Whispers From the Past: A Native American Experience October 2 from 10 a.m. until 5:30pm at the Aldridge Botanical Gardens, Hoover, Al. Explore Native American life through demonstrations featuring flint knapping, cooking, hunting and weapons and activities like leaf pounding, grinding corn and more. Please visit us at www. aldridgegardens.com for more information. mp

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Discover Wonders Below the Surface

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

From the moment we hide behind our hands, and then drop them to reveal our smiling face to an infant, we have begun to introduce them to the delights of discovering what is hidden. There’s a certain satisfaction derived when we finally see something that has been shielded from our sight. Mirroring the anticipation that accompanies a curtain rising at the theater or the wrapping falling away from a gift, toys and kits that unmask new marvels can generate tremendous satisfaction. Satisfy your child’s instinct to reveal the hidden with the following items that make discovery child’s play.

by Gerry Paige Smith

T-Rex Skeleton Dino Excavation Kit

Rock Tumbler Science Kit

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Taking a child’s fascination with dinosaurs one step further, the T-Rex Skeleton Dino Excavation Kit gives small hands the opportunity to dig into their own prehistoric discoveries. Featuring a complete disassembled skeleton locked inside a lightweight clay matrix, the kit comes with a guide and excavation tools to help young paleontologists start their own dig. A small hammer and chisel help to remove the clay, revealing sections of a T-Rex skeleton that can be reassembled into a cool display model (or glued together for dinosaur play). Excavation can create a dusty mess, but moving the project outdoors or to a porch adds to the sense of real dinosaur discovery for young scientists on their first big dig!

You’d never guess just by looking at most rocks and pebbles that they hide a captivating and colorful beauty just below the surface. The Rock Tumbler Science Kit speeds up the process of wearing away the dull outer covering from ½ pound of semi-precious pebbles through constant tumbling within its small waterproof drum. Inside the motorized drum, water and grit slowly grind away the dross over thirty days, revealing smooth colorful stones ready for mounting into jewelry or adding rich hues to any rock hound’s collection. Tips for finding your own rocks to tumble are included for more independent discovery. A true gem in the rough, this kit reveals a treasure trove of beauty hidden in the rocks and minerals around us.

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Treasure Tracker Metal Detector Truck

Break Your Own Geodes

(National Geographic)

(Geoworld)

(Gem Center USA)

Half of the search is done with this kit that provides 12 geodes that are preselected for dazzling interior formations. Resulting from volcanic activity, stone geodes were created when bubbles in molten lava hardened creating a hollow environment for crystals to form over time. The color and kind of mineral crystals inside have remained an ancient mystery... until kids open them. A hammer and chisel reveal never before seen beautiful structures that can be identified using the included geode guide. Combining the thrill of the action with the mystery of hidden beauty, the Break Your Own Geodes kit provides both a fun learning experience and exciting natural treasures to keep and study for a lifetime.

(Matchbox)

The search for buried treasure gets high-tech with the Treasure Tracker Truck. This ruggedly appointed truck is equipped with a metal detector halo that activates when you push the antenna down. As it rolls across sand, loose dirt or similarly permeable surface, the signal changes and alerts the driver when it encounters metal just below the surface. Once ‘x’ marks the spot, treasure hunters can get to work with scoop and sifter to begin excavating their site to find what’s buried just below the surface. Battery-operated and easy to maneuver, this vehicle gets the hunt for buried surprises rolling in style.

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

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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October is...

National Bullying Prevention Month River Region ROCK (Respect Others, Create Kindness), schools and communities across the country are observing National Bullying Prevention Month in October. The goal is to encourage communities to work together to stop bullying by increasing awareness of its impact on children of all ages.

and community resources. It is designed for teachers, parents, churches, community groups or anyone who works with children and is concerned about preventing bullying. Members of the River Region ROCK Task Force are available to conduct presentations in schools, churches and the community on bullying awareness and prevention. For more information about River Region ROCK or to contact a member of the ROCK Task Force, visit www.ROCKTaskForce.com. With your help, we can raise awareness about all types of bullying and can make schools and communities safer places for everyone.

These efforts are coordinated by River Region ROCK, a coalition of educators, parents, community groups, churches, law enforcement and youth whose goals are to: • Raise awareness about bullying in all its forms • Educate the community and empower young people with ways they can help prevent bullying • Promote programs that advocate respect for others • Foster partnerships with community groups to advance the ROCK message

Pictured: Steering Committee member Laura Hicks speaking at the unveiling of the Chisholm Elementary Buddy Bench, provided by the Women in Construction, Montgomery Chapter. Two students help with the unveiling.

What better time than now to help begin a bullying awareness program at your child’s school? You can download a special toolkit at www.ROCKTaskForce.com. This toolkit, which ROCK is providing to schools and communities throughout the River Region, provides general information about bullying, suggested prevention strategies and activities, as well as online

In conjunction with the Montgomery Chapter of the Public Relations Council of Alabama, Montgomery Parents is devoting space for a series of articles on bullying to raise awareness. Check out next month’s issue and follow the River Region Rock Task Force on Facebook to learn who received the ROCK Star Award!

HOW CAN YOUR SCHOOL GET INVOLVED?

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“What are you doing?!” I say to my son. “I told you five minutes ago to get dressed. We’re leaving for your baseball game!” Even in my apparent state of frustration, my 6-year-old refuses to be rushed along as he reluctantly tosses his toy plane onto the floor and slowly begins pulling one sock on and then another. His inner clock shows no urgency. And no amount of lecturing about dilly-dallying is going to expedite my dawdler. So begins another frantic dash out the door. Although some of us may be inclined to consider punctuality, or the lack there-of, as a personality trait, experts say that time management is a skill that can be taught and is just as important to academic and long-term success as learning the three Rs. “Time management skills for children are linked to ‘school survival skills’ when mastered young and become ingrained habits for later in life,” says Dr. Stephanie Mihalas, a nationally certified school psychologist and clinical instructor, department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences at UCLA. “Starting too young is never too early!” Time management includes executive functioning skills like organization and planning, reviewing work for quality and accuracy and staying focused.

Ask your child to estimate how much time he needs to finish his math assignment and then time him. With practice, he’ll start to realize how long each task actually takes. “A great tool is TimeTimer (http://www.timetimer.com/) which is like a kitchen timer (either a stand alone tool or an app) that shows time in stopwatch fashion with the time remaining in red,” says Cindy Sullivan, a productivity, time management and professional organization expert. “As the red shrinks you are getting closer to the end time. It works great with homework or when doing a ‘beat the clock’ to tidy up or work on other tasks.” Timers can also work well to keep parents on track, says Dr. Jane Sosland, clinical assistant professor, department of Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center. “A lot of times we’ll say, ‘I need you to brush your teeth. I’ll be back in five minutes.’ Then we get busy with other children,” Sosland says. Use your microwave or your phone timer to help remind you when it’s time to check on your child.

Schedule weekly family meetings. Use Sunday evenings to discuss the family’s upcoming schedule. Give each child her own calendar that she can fill out. Hang up a master schedule with each person’s activities in a different color of ink.

Create a chunked to-do schedule Divide the day into chunks of time on a dry erase board or laminate a task list. For example, the morning routine might say: Get

Use a timer. Build awareness about how long it takes to complete a task. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

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dressed, make bed, eat breakfast and brush teeth. Your child can check off the tasks as she completes them.

Offer incentives. “More checks can be linked to a natural reward like time with the family, helping to create the meal for the evening or play time with friends,” Mihalas says. Fewer checks results in natural consequences like less time to play with friends or watch a favorite TV program before school.

Use visuals. For children who aren’t reading yet, photographs or pictures can help cue them. “I helped my son take responsibility for his morning routine as a kindergartner by drawing pictures on post-it notes of school clothes, eating breakfast, and driving to school and stuck them on an analog clock,” says mom of two Sherlyn Pang Luedtke, author of The Mommy Advantage. Luedtke says that the day her son was still sitting in his pajamas when it was time to go, she calmly put him in the car with his clothes and shoes next to him. “He got dressed while the car was in the driveway with the engine running,” she says. If at first you don’t succeed, keep trying. Changing old habits can take at least a month, and kids don’t usually share the same sense of urgency as adults do. “If a morning goes poorly, rather than being furious and upset on the way to school, try and problem solve to decide what to do tomorrow so this doesn’t happen again. Maybe that’s waking up a few minutes earlier,” Sosland says. *Looking for additional resources? Check out Smart but Scattered by Peg Dawson, Ed.D., and Richard Guare, Ph.D. *Poor executive functioning can be a sign of ADD/ADHD. If you are concerned, consult with your family physician. mp Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, is a mom of two boys and the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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

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Calendar/Support Groups This Month

Saturday, October 1

Dream On! Write On! Hosts Writers Workshop 2-5 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton, 120 Madison Avenue, Montgomery. So you want to write a book? Don’t know how to get started? Come learn valuable information from Alabama authors Cedric Threatt, Tasha M. Scott, and Sharmon Threatt. Join us for a small group learning experience to explore your writing journey. Bring your desire to learn and passion for writing. $25 registration fee. Advance registration encouraged / limited seating. To register, visit www.dreamonwriteon. wixsite.com/montgomery. For more info, call Cindy at (334) 546-0096 or Lakeisha at (334) 313-8908. Living History Program at Fort Jackson Featuring the 1814 Militia Ft. Toulouse State Park, Wetumpka. All events are $2/ adult & $1/child unless otherwise noted. Call (334) 567-3002 for more information. Theatre in the Mind at Alabama Shakespeare Festival Noon-1 p.m. Participate in free pre-show discussions, author, cast, designer and director talks at ASF, most Saturdays at noon. Hosted by Dr. Susan Willis, ASF’s resident dramaturg, these entertaining and thought-provoking lectures by noted theatre scholars complement a perfect Saturday afternoon at the theatre! For more info, call (334) 271-5353 or visit www.asf.net.

Millbrook Community Players Present You Can’t Take it with You -- @ 7:30 p.m. and October 2 @ 2 p.m. Written by Mose Hart and George Kaufman; directed by Daniel Harms. At first the Sycamores seem mad, but it is not long before we realize the rest of the world is madder. In contrast to these delightful people are the unhappy Kirbys. The plot shows how Tony, attractive young son of the Kirbys, falls in love with Alice Sycamore. For tickets or more info, visit http://www. millbrooktheater.com/ or call (334) 782-7317. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also October 8 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3 and up. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. October 1 is Sprout Mashup Masks; October 8 is Clothespin Bats. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Agatha

October2016 provide snacks/drinks. Gift shop will be open. Visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call 1-800-822-9453.

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AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes -- Every Saturday Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu.

Civil Rights Walking Tours -- Every Saturday and Sunday 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. start times. Tours start from The Village Gallery. Come explore Montgomery’s history walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era. Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under - $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling (334) 595-9243.

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

Worldwide Day of Play Pratt Park. 2-5 p.m. Join the City of Prattville for its 6th annual event, in conjunction with Nickelodeon’s Worldwide Day of Play. Get up, get active and join the Parks and Rec staff for a carnival-themed afternoon of FREE fun. For more info, visit www.prattvilleal.gov/. 5th Annual River Region Prayer Walk 8:30-10:30 a.m. Union Station Train Shed. The purpose of this gathering is to bring together the citizens of the River Region to pray over our cities, government leaders, schools and teachers, uniformed heroes and servants, pastors and ministry leaders, businesses, and all of the people that make up the River Region. We will conclude the Prayer Walk at the train shed with a FREE concert, FREE hot dogs hot off the grill, and lots of fun fellowship! For more info, call (334) 612-7894 or visit www.beautybyfire.org/river-region-prayer-walk. html. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is a fire truck with real wheels so you can race it to the rescue! Once the fire truck is built, your child can paint it his favorite color. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://workshops.homedepot.com/workshops/ kids-workshops. Auditions for Wetumpka Depot Christmas Show Also October 2 2 p.m. both days. Batten down the hatches! The Wetumpka Depot Players present Jingle ARRGH the Way! A Christmas Pirate Adventure. Show dates December 1-7 at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and noon. Based on the popular How I Became a Pirate series, this delightful show is sure to delight our school audiences. A mysterious message left in the crow’s nest of their ship brings Captain Braid Beard and his pirate mates back to North Beach to seek out young Jeremy Jacob to help solve a riddle and find the Christmas treasure. For more info, visit www.wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Christie’s Mousetrap -- Through October 9 Throw together a group of eccentric strangers trapped in a boarding house during a snowstorm, and murder and mayhem are sure to ensue! The audience will share the nerve-rattling suspense of the guests of Monkswell Manor as they try to determine who the killer is before he or she strikes again! Recommended for ages 12 and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Wetumpka Depot Theatre Presents Young Frankenstein -- Through October 15 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2 p.m. October 9. Written by Mel Brooks and directed by Kristy Meanor, with musical direction by Marilyn Swears. If you liked the movie, you’ll love the play! Tickets may be purchased at wetumpkadepot.com or by calling (334) 868-1440. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Charlotte’s Web -- Through October 20 Based on the novel by E.B. White, Charlotte’s Web shares the story of Wilbur, a lonely little pig whose life is transformed by the efforts of Charlotte, a kind and generous spider, who teaches him about the power of belief and the true meaning of friendship. Recommended for ages four and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Farmers Market at The Shoppes at EastChase All Saturdays through October 22 7 a.m.-noon. The grand opening of this 12th annual event will feature all vendors and festivities for the entire family. Shoppers will continue to find unique, local items such as organic produce, meats, milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads, fruit pastries, birdhouses and nursery plants. For more info, call (334) 279-6046 or visit www.facebook.com/eastchase. Alabama Nature Center Weekends -- Every Saturday 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

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Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museum Spring Spectacular -- Weekends Wetumpka. Reproductions of famous statuary from Greek and Roman times, and many flowers you do not usually see in the Deep South. Perennials include delphinium and digitalis, with such familiar annuals as tulips, Japanese cherries and azaleas loaded with blossoms. Open Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, noon-5 p.m. For more info, visit www. jasminehill.org.

Sunday, October 2

Capital City Artists Reception and Art Show 2-4 p.m. The Capital City Artists are holding a public reception for their 2016 show, “Southern Shores.” The reception provides visitors an opportunity to see and purchase new works, as well as meet the artists and talk with them about their paintings. The show continues throughout the month of October at the Armory. For more info, call (334) 462-7285. Open Auditions for Millbrook Community Players’ 2017 Season -- Also October 3 5 p.m. Sunday; 7 p.m. Monday. 2017 season includes the following shows: Leading Ladies, The Odd Couple, Music Man, Diary of Anne Frank and A Country Christmas Carol. Visit www.millbrooktheater.com/ and complete the audition form if interested. Form will also be available at auditions. If you are auditioning for either Music Man or A County Christmas Carol for a singing part, you should bring sheet music. For more info, call (334) 782-7317. Special Needs Skate -- Also October 16 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. First Sundays at One -- Also November 6 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the traveling exhibitions as well as the Museum’s Permanent Collection in these FREE docent-

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6 led tours the FIRST Sunday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.

Monday, October 3

The Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Holds Auditions at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection 6:30 p.m. for ALL local dancers ages 6-17. This year’s performance will be December 26 at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection is located at 3370 Harrison Road in Montgomery. Call 277-1098 for more info.

Tuesday, October 4

National Night Out in Prattville 6-8 p.m. National Night Out (NNO) is an annual event designed to strengthen our communities by encouraging neighborhoods to engage in stronger relationships with each other and with their local law enforcement partners. Join us in the Target parking lot in Prattville. There will be free refreshments, demonstrations, and fun events. Invite a neighbor and bring a friend to this regional community awareness event. For more info, contact Tammy Wingard at (334) 595-0202.

Wednesday, October 5

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. 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.

MUSES Meeting at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Also October 19 and November 2 4-5 p.m. The MUSES is a teen council that meets to enjoy creative experiences in the galleries and to plan art events for teens in Montgomery. To learn how to represent your school and become part of the MUSES, please call Alice Novak at (334) 240-4361.

Thursday, October 6

Montgomery Women’s Newcomers Group: Moving On After Moving In 9:15-11 a.m. at St. James UMC Cafe, Vaughn Rd. Meet

other women who have recently moved to the River Region! Join us for a time of learning, sharing and meeting new friends during this class assisted by Susan Miller’s book, After the Boxes Are Unpacked: Moving On After Moving In. Childcare available. For more info, contact pam.zavada@gmail.com or (256) 541-7888.

Friday, October 7

Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents Agatha Christie’s Black Coffee Also October 8, 13-15 and 20-22 Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner served 6:15-6:45 p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Faulkner University Dinner Theatre, 5346 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery. Visit https://www.faulkner.edu/undergrad/student-life/ student-activities/dinner-theater/dinner-theatreschedule/. Volunteer Museum Guide Training 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH) is seeking volunteer museum guides to lead student and adult tours of the Museum of Alabama. Flexible schedules are available and museum tours typically last one hour. Qualifications for guides include good communication skills, the ability to work well with people of all ages, and an interest in teaching others. For more info, contact Sara at (334) 353-4712 or sara.kunau@archives. alabama.gov. Corks in the Courtyard 5:30-7:30 p.m. The A&P Courtyard, 503 Cloverdale Rd. Join RSVP Montgomery and A&P Social for a tasting of more than 20 wines. Sip, stroll and enjoy live music. $10 advance ticket or $15 day of. Call (334) 356-4598 to reserve your advance ticket. Color The Town Pink in Wetumpka The City of Wetumpka, Ivy Creek and Belk encourage all Wetumpka businesses to “Color the Town Pink” for the month of October in honor of breast cancer awareness. The Pink Walk will be held at noon beginning in front of the Civic Center fountain. Charity Fashion Show will be held 7-10 p.m. at Wetumpka Civic Center. Join us for fashions, food and fun honoring survivors and those that are ill. Pink bows will be available for purchase at the City Administrative Building, 408 S. Main St. All proceeds will benefit Joy to Life.

Friday Night Hoops -- Also October 21 Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every first and third 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 non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org.

Saturday, October 8

Third Annual Bow Wow & Meow 5K and Kids’ Dash The Waters, Pike Road. Race starts promptly at 8 a.m. Water and treats will be on hand for both you and your furry running/walking partner, should you choose to bring your dog along. The Montgomery Humane Society staff will be on site with lots of cuddly friends looking for forever homes. For more info, visit www. facebook.com/MHS5K. Sista Strut 3K Breast Cancer Walk 8 a.m. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The goal of Sista Strut is to heighten awareness about the

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Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also October 28 and November 4 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/first child; $15 per sibling. For ages 5-12. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! October 28 is “Trunk or Treat.” $30 for the first child and $20 for each additional sibling! *Includes T-shirt.* Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walk-ins welcome. Visit www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com for more info.

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Calendar/Support Groups issues of breast cancer in women of color, as well as provide information on community resources. Registration fee is $25 per individual or $30 per team member. For more info, call (334) 274-6451 or visit http://1043hallelujahfm.iheart.com/features/sistastrut-2177/.  Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/events/1374454692792666 /?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and preregistration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com.

Sunday, October 9

Prattville Annual Fall Art Show 2-4 p.m. Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery’s exhibit will feature works by local and regional artists in a variety of art media as well as many different artistic styles. The exhibit and the reception are free and open to the public. For more info, please call the Special Events Office at (334) 595-0854. Jamey Johnson’s 5th Annual Charity Golf Tournament & Concert 6 p.m. Cottonwood Golf Club, 7160 Byron Nelson Blvd., Montgomery. Hosted by the Nikki Mitchell Foundation, a Nashville-based pancreatic cancer non-profit. For more info, e-mail events@nikkimitchellfoundation.org.

Monday, October 10

Introduction to Korean Culture and Language The YMCA of Greater Montgomery is inspring boys and girls ages 11-17 by exposing them to Korean culture and language at the Wilson YMCA. The course will provide a basic foundation that will enable students to acquire and develop language skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing in Korean. Cost: $25/ Members; $50 Non-Members. Classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays beginning October 10 (all dates are subject to change). For more info, contact Yongbok Lee at (334) 356-8471 or ylee@ ymcamontgomery.org.

Tuesday, October 11

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 downtown. For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth.org or visit www.facebook.com/ VegOutMontgomery.

Wednesday, October 12

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. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/ Elmore/.

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Thursday, October 13

Hampstead’s 7th Annual “Farm to Fork Food Invasion” The 100-person seated dinner will feature a menu celebrating fall produce grown at Hampstead Farm, the 1.5-acre community garden and event space for Hampstead community members. Beginning at 6 p.m., guests will be treated to a cocktail reception and oyster bar followed at 7 p.m. by a family-style, four-course meal. More information and tickets are available at www.hampsteadliving.com/food-invasion or contact anna@hampsteadliving.com.

Junior League Holiday Market -- Through October 15 Multiplex @ Cramton Bowl. Thursday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. with Spirit Night: 5-9 p.m. Door prizes from Auburn, Alabama, ASU, AUM, Faulkner, Huntington and Troy. A pair of Iron Bowl tickets will be given away. Friday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. with Girls’ Night Out: 5:30-9 p.m. Spa gift certificate will be given away. Free shopping bags for the first 200 shoppers! Saturday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Santa’s Workshop and Breakfast with Santa: 9-11 a.m. Photos with Santa (for purchase): 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Pricing: Preview Party: $40; General Admission Tickets: $10; Advance: $5; Military (with Military ID): $5; Three Day Passes: $15; Valet Parking: $5. For details, visit JLMontgomery.Com Montgomery’s Zoo Boo -- Through October 16; also October 20-23; and 27-31 6-9 p.m. each night. Join us for 13 nights of horror and fun at Zoo Boo. Climb aboard the thrill ride of a life time on the Haunted Hay Ride or mosey on over to the Pumpkin Pull for a good, ole fashioned, non-scary, traditional hay ride. Enjoy games, bouncy castles, concessions and much more. Event fee: $15 (ages 3 years old and older). Montgomery Zoo members receive a 50% discount. For more info, visit www. montgomeryzoo.com or call (334) 240-4900.

Friday, October 14

Christian Comedian Tim Hawkins Live at Samford University 7 p.m. at Samford’s Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center, 800 Lakeshore Drive. Advance ticket prices begin at $25. For tickets or more info, call (888) 780-1116 or visit tickets.samford.edu. Parents’ Night Out at Grandview YMCA 6-10 p.m. For children ages 5 and up. Cost: $10/ members; $20/non-members. Contact: Rachel Joiner at rjoiner@ymcamontgomery.org or 290-9622. Art in Concert at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-11 p.m. featuring Daniel Ellsworth and the Great Lakes. Advance tickets can be purchased online or tickets may be purchased the night of the concert. A VIP package for $100 includes food, drink and a meet and greet with the band prior to the concert! This event is rain or shine on the grounds of the Museum. Please no outside food or drink. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333. Virtual Dementia Tour, An Innovative Hands-On Sensitivity Training, Simulating the Dementia Experience Drop in between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Country Cottage

October2016 Assisted Living and Memory Care, 235 Sylvest Drive. Free memory screenings available! For more info, call (334) 322-0668 or visit cottageassistedliving.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Gravedigger’s Tale -- Through October 15 Special limited engagement! An interactive retelling of Shakespeare’s Hamlet from the point of view of the Gravedigger, Gravedigger’s Tale comes to ASF from the Folger Theatre to celebrate the national tour of Shakespeare’s Folio on display at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts in October. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Pike Road Fourth Annual Plein-Air Paint Out Also October 15 The Pike Road Arts Council and Alabama Plein Air Artists partner for this event which kicks off at 8 a.m. October 14 at SweetCreek Farm Market (85 Meriwether Road, Pike Road). Activities will run through Saturday evening, culminating with an art show and sale at Pike Road Town Hall (9575 Vaughn Road, Pike Road). The event is open to the public. People who attend the art show and sale Saturday evening, can cast their vote for the “People’s Choice Award” and will be entered in a drawing for a free painting. For more info, call (334) 272-9883 or visit www.pikeroad.us. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also October 28 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

Saturday, October 15

Easter Seals Annual Walk ‘n’ Roll Miracle League Field. Registration starts at 8 a.m. and the walk begins at 9. For more info, call Varina Mead at (334) 387-3256 or e-mail vmead@ eastersealsca.org. Also visit www.crowdrise.com/ eastersealscentralalabama.org.

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Riverwalk Wine Festival Riverfront Park, Montgomery. 3-6 p.m. Tickets: $25/ person. For more info, call (334) 625-2100 or visit http://www.funinmontgomery.com/. Making Strides Against Cancer 5K Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.; walk at 9 a.m. Riverwalk Stadium. For more info, contact Maggie Kuykendall at MontgomeryALStrides@ cancer.org or (334) 612-8170. British Motoring Club of Montgomery’s 20th Annual Car Show 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The Shed at the Alabama Farmer’s Market, located on the corner of Coliseum Boulevard and Federal Drive. Free to the viewing public, $20 for participants who enter cars in the competition. Visit www.montgomerybrits.org for more info. A Shakespeare Celebration! Noon-7 p.m. A family-friendly, Blount Cultural Park event involving both the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. There will be offerings on the grounds of the theater including performances, creative children’s activities,

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artisan demonstrations, fight presentations, talks on Shakespeare, and more. Several arts activities (1-2 p.m. and 3-4 p.m.) will also be offered at the MMFA. The day will begin at noon with a special Theater in the Mind Lecture on ASF’s Festival Stage in anticipation of a 2 p.m. performance of Gravedigger’s Tale. The First Folio exhibit will be on view at the Museum until 5 with related drop-in arts activities offered at the Museum from 1-2 and 3-4 p.m. Young visitors will be invited to create their own paper Hamlet characters with costumes. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

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Wednesday, October 19 Creatures of the Night at the Alabama Nature Center 4-6:30 p.m. Bring the family and join us for a Halloween-themed evening under the stars, hosted by the ANC and Reality Connection. Activities will include a slithering snake encounter, black lighting for insects, ewwy gooey touch table, flashlight spider search and night hike, and a movie under the stars! S’mores are complimentary for the movie. Bring a blanket or chairs for the movie. All ages, but recommended for ages 5 and up. Admission: $5. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call 1-800-822-9453.

Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Presents ZZ Top 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $50. For tickets or more info, call (205) 458-8400 or visit www.bjcc.org/. Wonderfully Made Seminars for Women Noon-1 p.m. MCI Auditorium on the Campus of Baptist South. This month’s topic is “Patient Navigation and Having Cancer” with the Nurse Navigators from the Montgomery Cancer Center. Lunch is provided. Space is limited. Please register if you plan to attend by calling (334) 273-4444.

EAT South Harvest Table Part III Fall’s Finest Flavors 6-9 p.m. Presented by EAT South and Central at the EAT South rear parking lot of The Advertiser, 485 Molton St. For foodies and farmers, fall means the best flavors a season can offer. Join us on the farm for local craft beer, craft cocktails and a carefully crafted menu by Chef Brandon Burleson utilizing all the fine flavors of EAT South’s Fall harvest. For more info, call (334) 422-9331. Capri Theatre Presents Forrest Gump 7:30 p.m. The classic Robert Zemeckis film featuring Tom Hanks will be shown courtesy of the Friends of the Alabama Governors Mansion for its annual fundraiser. The event includes a pre-screening reception and silent auction at 6 p.m. at the adjacent Stonehenge Gallery with the movie beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 and may be purchased at www.alabamagovernorsmansion.org or by contacting any FOAGM board member. Tickets may also be purchased at the Governor’s Mansion Gift Shop located at 30 Finley Avenue in Montgomery.

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Riverview Reﬁnement, Program, Campﬁres night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

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first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,

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Raise The Roof Fundraiser for Montgomery Area Non-traditional Equestrians 6-9 p.m. Wintzell’s Oyster House will cater and the Whiskey River Band will perform. For tickets or more info, call (334) 213-0909 or visit www.maneweb.org/.

Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “The History and Culture of the Muscogee People,” presented by Justin Giles. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

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Discovery Sundays Join Landmarks Foundation for its dynamic new series one Sunday a month at 2 p.m., and the program will vary from presentations at Old Alabama Town to field trips around Montgomery. Free to the public. October 16 program is “Field Trip to Sidney Lanier High School.” Meet at the school, 1756 S Court St. Visit http://www. landmarksfoundation.com/ or call (334) 240-4500.

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.

FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF

Thursday, October 20

Prattville Pops Annual Fall Concert Doster Community Center at 3 pm. This concert will feature a variety of music and is great for the entire family to enjoy. Admission is FREE and it is open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0854.

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Calendar/Support Groups Exploring Alabama’s Caves Events begin at 6 p.m. at the Alabama Nature Center. Ray Knott, executive director of The Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc., will tell us all about the secret world below our feet. Watch an exclusive screening of Southern Exposure’s Sharing the Secrets, a film that takes viewers underground into the vast subterranean geology of a few of Alabama’s more than 4,000 caves! Come at 5:30 to enjoy a BYODinner, and stroll through the Discovery Hall. Admission: $5. For more info, contact tharris@alabamawildlife.org or visit www. alabamawildlife.org/.

Disney on Ice: Dream Big at Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center -- Through October 23 Various performance times. Tickets begin at $17. For tickets or more info, call (205) 458-8400 or visit www. bjcc.org/. Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Presents Dead Man’s Cell Phone -- Through October 30 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Written by Sarah Ruhl and directed by Maureen Costello, this imaginative new comedy is about how we memorialize the dead—and how that remembering changes us. It is the odyssey of a woman forced to confront her own assumptions about morality, redemption, and the need to connect in a technologically obsessed world. For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530. (*Recommended for ages 16 and up.*)

can enjoy the background of Jazz Jams, a dynamic exhibition, a related art activity and ballet spectacular. Participants will be invited to explore the exhibition Federico Uribe: Transformart and create inventive 3-dimensional artwork with jazz performances ongoing. The afternoon will end with a dance interpretation of Uribe’s work by the Booker T. Washington Magnet High Dance Theater starting at 4 p.m. Thanks to the Alabama Roots Society for making Jazz Jams possible. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. Newsboys Live at Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center 6 p.m. Tickets begin at $27. For tickets or more info, call (205) 458-8400 or visit www.bjcc.org/.

Monday, October 24

AUM Political Film Series -- Also November 10 7 p.m. Goodwyn Hall, AUM, 7440 East Dr. FREE and open to the public. The October 24 film will be Fed Up, attempting to answser the question, “Does what we eat make us sick?” The November 10 film will be We Were Soldiers, which covers the first major battle between the American and the Vietnamese armies as seen through the eyes of the Battalion Commander Lt. Colonel, Hal Moore (Mel Gibson). For more info, call (334) 244-3642.

Wetumpka Depot Theatre Presents Glass Menagerie -- Also October 23 7:30 p.m. performance October 21; and 2 p.m. October 23. Written by Tennessee Williams and directed by Tom Salter, this performance will be the Wetumpka Depot’s entry in the ACTFEST2016, Alabama’s Community Theatre Festival. Amanda is a Southern belle, abandoned wife, and dominating mother, living with two grown children. Amanda dreams of a better life for her painfully shy and crippled daughter, Laura, who evades her mother’s schemes and reality by retreating to a world of make-believe. Tickets may be purchased at wetumpkadepot.com or by calling (334) 868-1440.

Capital City Club’s Charity Classic “Under the Big Top” 5-9 p.m. This year’s local beneficiary is the Boys and Girls Ranches of Alabama. Tickets are $45 for adults and $20 for children and will feature a silent auction, live entertainment, an open bar, circus bites, sponsored fairway games, good will and a grand ole’ time. For more info, contact heather.logan@clubcorp.com or call (334) 834-8920.

Saturday, October 22

EAT South Ghouls and Garlic 10 a.m.-2 p.m. EAT South rear parking lot of The Advertiser, 485 Molton St. Halloween is the time to plant garlic, and folk traditions tell us that garlic keeps the spirits as well as vampires at bay. Together, we’ll plant garlic, taste garlic, and enjoy seasonal treats like sugar cane and apples. Our neighbors at New South Books will join us with ghostly tales and books for sale. This will be a frighteningly fun event for the whole family. Visit www.eatsouth.org/.

Sunday, October 23

Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams 2-4 p.m. Bring the whole family to this FREE Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts program where everyone

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Thursday, October 27

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. Featured speaker will be Sara DuBose, Montgomery’s own recognized storyteller. DuBose is a member of the Board of the Alabama Storytellers Association and a published author of five books. Lunch cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, October 23, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com. Prattville Halloween Candy Walk 4-6 p.m. This free event is for toddlers through second graders. Lineup will begin at 3:30 p.m. and this year we plan to have two starting points for the lines to begin. We will have our usual starting point in front of City Hall and to relieve the congestion and long waiting times, we will have a second starting point at the end of Main Street at Heritage Park. Each line will continue through the shops of downtown, with many businesses participating. Please bring canned goods for donation to the Autauga Interfaith Care Center (AICC) food bank.

Friday, October 28

63rd Annual Small-Standard Fall Flower Show, “Denim and Diamonds” -- Through November 6 Held at the Alabama National Fair @ Garrett Coliseum, 2nd floor, 1555 Federal Dr. Pre-registration required by Oct. 6 and open to any amateur photographers. Demonstrations of Floral Designs by Flower Show Judges Oct. 29 from 5-6 p.m. and Nov. 5 from 11 a.m.noon. Look for the entry form at www.alnationalfair. org/competitions/flower-show. Also contact Rose Winkler, Flower Show Chairman, at (334) 270-0884 or rmwinkler45@yahoo.com. The Fall Flower Show is open to the public after judging and throughout the duration of the Fair. There is no charge after admission into the Fair.

Friday, October 21

“The President’s Own” United States Marine Band Free concert at 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets available at the MPAC Box Office. **Limit 4 per person** Doors open at 6:45 p.m. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

October2016

Tuesday, October 25

Friendship Mission Benefit Dinner & Silent Auction Friendship Mission Inc. is a non-profit organization that operates two homeless shelters and serves meals daily for those in need in the River Region. The men’s shelter and meal kitchen is located on the Mobile Highway, and the women’s and children’s shelter is located on Chisholm Street. The event will be held at the Landmark Church Life Center and the keynote speaker will be Mike Kolen, former Auburn and Miami Dolphin football player and author of The Greatest Team: A Playbook for Champions. Tickets are available by calling (334) 356-6412. Wetumpka Candy Walk 4:30-6:30 p.m. Ages toddler through 4th grade. Behind the City Administration Building. Please bring a canned good for donation to the Elmore County Food Pantry. For more info, call (334) 567-5147.

Wednesday, October 26

Wetumpka’s First Haunted History Tours Through October 29 7-10 p.m. Experience the rich history of Wetumpka’s historic downtown buildings and listen to hair-raising personal experiences of paranormal occurrences in the buildings by taking a haunted history tour! If you’re especially daring, participate in a paranormal investigation in one of the most haunted buildings in Wetumpka! Book Your tour by contacting Jamie at (334) 567-4811 or jyoung@ wetumpkachamber.org.

Alabama National Fair -- Through November 6 Garrett Coliseum. Hours and ticket prices vary daily. Midway rides, competitions and live entertainment including Eli Young Band, Cameo, En Yogue, Collective Soul and Hunter Hayes. For more info, visit www. alnationalfair.org/ or call (334) 272-6831.

Saturday, October 29

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Dracula Also October 30 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Sink your teeth into a thrilling vampire drama back by popular demand at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. In addition to Dracula, ADT will continue the beloved tradition of Mistletoe, featuring “Favorite Dances of Christmas.” This will be performed for one day only October 29 at 2:30 p.m. at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival as a special children’s matinee. Performance tickets are $15-30. Tickets may be purchased at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival box office or at asf.net. For more info, call (334) 241-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com. Lions Club Chili Cook-Off 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Historic Train Shed in downtown Montgomery. Visit www.montgomerylionsclub.com/ chili-cookoff.html for details. Trick or Pink at the Shoppes at EastChase 5-7 p.m. Celebrate Halloween while helping to fight breast cancer. There will be pink pumpkin patch, costume contest, facepainting, food + drinks, music, games, and Halloween fun! Benefits the Joy to Life Foundation. For more info, call (334) 279-6046.

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Sunday, October 30

Montgomery’s Capitol Sounds Concert Band Presents “Sounds of Autumn” Fall Concert 3 p.m. at City Hall Auditorium in Montgomery. The Capitol Sounds Concert Band will perform selections from Bizet’s opera, “Carmen,” as well as the overture to the opera “Morning, Noon and Night in Vienna” by von Suppe. The band will feature Dr. Katrina Phillips on Clarinet in a selection with sounds of Halloween called “Black Dog.” Donations will be taken at the door, and will go towards our Children’s Concert in January and the Young Artist Solo Competition in March. For more info, visit www.capitolsounds.org.

Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Presents Jeff Dunham 8 p.m. in Legacy Arena. Tickets begin at $51. For tickets or more info, call (205) 458-8400 or visit www. bjcc.org/.

Sunday, November 6

Bell Road YMCA Member Fall Festival 2-4 p.m. Come join us for a fun and safe alternative Halloween event. The Bell Road YMCA will have a hay ride and candy bags for youth participants between the ages of 2 and 12 (accompanied by an adult). Enjoy games and concessions available for purchase. The event is FREE to all members of the YMCA of Greater Montgomery, but you must register. Registration is limited to 125 participants. Visit http://ymcamontgomery.org/.

Monday, October 31

Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Presents Bonnie Raitt 8 p.m. in the Concert Hall. Tickets begin at $35. For tickets or more info, call (205) 458-8400 or visit www. bjcc.org/.

Untangling the Web: Finding Your Alabama Ancestors In Cyberspace 9 a.m.-noon. Taught by Nancy Dupree at the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History. Are you lost in the web of too many family history sites? Spooked by cyberspace? Join us on Halloween to gain valuable knowledge of the best websites, online resources and most effective genealogical search strategies to take your family history research to the next level. Learn how to use online resources including Ancestry.com and Fold3. This workshop is suited for all levels of research experience. $30 for the public, $20 for Friends of the Alabama Ar-

Wednesday, November 2

Alabama Frontier Days at Fort Toulouse/ Fort Jackson -- Through November 5 Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ft. Toulouse State Park, Wetumpka. Experience one of the largest and most authentic living history events in Alabama! See the south as it transitioned from Creek Indian lands to military forts and civilian homesteads during the period 1700 to 1820. Using Fort Toulouse - Fort Jackson Park as its historical backdrop, Alabama Frontier Days focuses on demonstrating life on the southern frontier during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Admission is $8/adult & $7/child. Call (334) 567-3002 or visit https://fttoulousejackson.org/ for more information.

Friday, November 4

RPM Productions Inc. Presents the 2017 Miss Alabama and Miss Teen Alabama USA Pageants Also November 5 Preliminary competition November 4 and Finals November 5; both are at 7:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $40.

2016 Town of Pike Road Veterans Day Program 2 p.m. at Veterans Park near Founders Station. Bricks will be dedicated and installed in the Walk of Honor at the Town of Pike Road’s Veterans Memorial, 4902 Pike Road. For more info, call (334) 272-9883 or e-mail tosha@pikeroad.us. Also visit www.pikeroad.us. Veterans’ Appreciation Week at the Montgomery Zoo -- Through November 12 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily. Join the Montgomery Zoo in thanking the proud men and women of the armed forces. This week, all veterans, active duty military and their immediate family members receive a 50% DISCOUNT on regular daytime admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Participants must provide a valid military identification to receive discount. For more info, visit www. montgomeryzoo.com or call (334) 240-4900.

We are now open and acceptin Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents new Beatles Medicaid patients! The Fab Four: Ultimate Tribute 7:30 p.m. The Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing. Their incredible stage (334) 801-9800 performances include three costume changes Thursday, November 10

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Calendar/Support Groups representing every era of the Beatles’ ever-changing career, and this loving tribute to the Beatles has amazed audiences in countries around the world. Tickets begin at $28. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

Ongoing

Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. In Grandma’s Attic, kids can try on clothes, 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 to do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. 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 meeting on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/ Drawing. Each club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. 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. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building). 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

October2016

from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333.

call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 3241406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com.

“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.

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.

Brain Pump is a group exercise class, targeting children 4-12 years old. The class is the collaboration of a physical therapist and a kinesiology professor combining traditional therapy and exercise concepts with the latest cutting edge research on movement and the brain. This is all done in a fun, energetic setting, that seems much more like playing than exercising. Brain Pump is taught at Metro Fitness on Saturdays from 1111:45 a.m. Contact Tiffany Higginbotham at Body Logic PT & Wellness (334-380-5920) for more info. 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) 457-9254 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. For event info,

Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the Civil War and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org. Friday Night Hoops Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with 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 play basketball to be involved. Participants must have a

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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, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-2409452 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 or visit http://www.troy.edu/planetarium/.

Harriott II Riverboat Cruises Seasonal. Typical hours are 6:30-9 p.m. Live entertainment, cash bar and concessions available. For more info and available dates, visit www.funinmontgomery. com, call (334) 625-2100 or visit the Riverwalk Box Office at 200 Coosa Street. Montgomery Women’s Newcomers Group: Moving On After Moving In Thursdays from 9:15-11 a.m. beginning September 15. St. James UMC Cafe, Vaughn Rd. Childcare available. For more info, please contact pam.zavada@gmail. com or (256) 541-7888. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum 468 South Perry Street. Learn how 21 young people helped change our nation’s history using nonviolent protest. Black and white, male and female, none of them were older than 21. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, noon -4 p.m. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or call (334) 242-3184. 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 or vist www.landmarksfoundation.com/. 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 and help new residents do the same. For information on meetings and locations, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-9897 or nschrull@knology.net. Prattville Movie Club (for Teens) Meeting twice a month on Fridays, current Prattville Movie Club members range from 14-18 years old and meet at the Carmike Promenade 12 on Cobbs Ford Road. There are no GPA requirements and no class requirements. We are friends who enjoy moviegoing and want to meet others who also enjoy watching movies. For more info, call (334) 224-7811 or e-mail brandonperdue12@gmail.com.

Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street. 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. For more info, call 241-8615 or visit www.troy.edu/rosaparks/. 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 October 12 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 troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org to register or for more info. Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and

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Calendar/Support Groups breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee:

$20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth 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 Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.

October2016 Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more info or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu. 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. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www. Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org.

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Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Maternity Area Tour Baptist Health’s Maternity Area Tour is for parents not attending Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp. Tour is offered on select Saturdays of each month and is complimentary. Tour is for adults only. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@jackson.org. Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. Slow Flow Yoga Classes are held at Old Alabama Town on 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. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 2070909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com.

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Calendar/Support Groups 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. 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 info, or to volunteer, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Baptist Hospice Volunteers There are many 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 to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Baptist 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. 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 info, call (334) 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and (334) 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Hospital Animal Therapy Program 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. Jackson Hospital Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital information desk 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. Call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/patients_ volunteers.html. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. River Region Association of Doulas Doulas Traci Weafer, Rebekah Hawkins and Christina Clark provide prenatal counseling, labor and postpartum doula services, breastfeeding education, events and support groups. Contact rradoulas@gmail.com or visit rradoulas.weebly.com or https://www.facebook. com/RRADoulas/.

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

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

UMC. For more info, 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 lifelong 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. 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. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.

Divorce Support

DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. beginning September 6 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Join us for thirteen weeks of guidance and purpose as you move forward with life after divorce. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info.

October2016 Divorce Care for Kids meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. beginning September 6 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Children of divorce or separation find hope, help, and healing. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com.

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 at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info. “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 ages 7-11 who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 2796677. 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 2796677. 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 organiza-

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tion 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. This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. 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 272-8622 for more info. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. 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. 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. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www. honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group.

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 first Thursdays from 10 a.m.-2

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Calendar/Support Groups 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. Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. Meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. You will experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” is led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Diabetes Support Group 4-5 p.m., fourth Thursdays, Jackson Hospital. Are you interested in learning how to better manage your Type 2 diabetes? Would you like support from others as you work to control your diabetes? Sponsored by inpatient diabetes educator Michelle Carothers, this group offers clinical information, advice and tips to make living with diabetes easier for you and your family. Register today! Call (334) 293-8574 or e-mail michelle.carothers@jackson.org. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. 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 (Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) 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. Meetings are held at 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 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742.

Montgomery Parents I October 2016

Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org. 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 info, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

October2016 MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail.com or visit http://vfcmops.weebly. com/. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Redland Baptist Church in Wetumpka. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. during the school year. We also have scheduled

La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https:// sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/ MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.

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Parent Support

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

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play dates and mom’s nights out. 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. For more info, 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

God Will Make a Way, Frazer UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. beginning Sept 6. Learn to follow God’s principles to thrive relationally, emotionally, and spiritually in 12 key areas of life and use God’s wisdom to cope with your most difficult problems. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info.

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Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many familyoriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget. 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. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info.

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. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.

com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com for more info. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. 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, e-mail LyraStephens@ yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate, Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more info, e-mail Lyrastephens@ yahoo.com.

Teens/Families Support

Family Guidance Center of Alabama’s September Schedule is below. Call 270-4100 for more information about any of these classes: October 4 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Career Planning” explores various employment choices and the basic skills expected by potential employers.

October 5 from 1-3 p.m.: “Anger Management” provides participants with information on how to detect anger triggers and ways to control their reactions to anger. October 6 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Your Own Home” provides information on renting versus owning a home, the home buying process, and financially protecting your home. October 11 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Resume’ Writing” teaches participants how to compose a resume’ based on the type of employment they are seeking. October 18 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Interview Skills/ Dress for Success” prepares participants for the steps to take before, during and after an interview for the best possible opportunity of obtaining employment. October 20 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Financial Recovery” describes steps participants can take to recover financially and rebuild their credit after experiencing a financial setback. October 25 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Work Ethics” instructs participants on how to obtain a high standard of conduct at work for job retention and promotion. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Pink and Pearls for Girls Hosts Annual Luncheon

Pink and Pearls for Girls participated in selfesteem and hygiene workshops at its annual Pretty in Pink Luncheon. Afterward, each Pearl received a hygiene bag and some great self-esteem affirmations. For more info about this organization, call Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091.

Montgomery Ice Skaters Win President’s Award

The Montgomery KLynn Ice Skating Team attended Ice Skating Institute World Recreational Team Championships in Minneapolis the end of July. The competition hosted 18 states and three international teams with more than 1,000 skaters. KLynn skaters participated in 163 events during the week long competition. They returned home with the ISI President’s Award, sixth overall of 66 teams and medals for all. The total count: 50 Gold, 45 Silver, 31 Bronze, 15 fourth placements, 12 fifth placements, and 10 sixth placements The KLynn Blue Diamonds synchronize team was selected to skate in the ISI Benefit show at the end of week of competition. Also, skating in the show from KLynn was Alyssa Allen, one of four Education Foundation Scholarship winners. These skaters performed with the United States Figure skating Champions Gracie Gold (Olympian) and her sister Carley Gold. The skaters will now set their goal for attending the 2017 Championships in Anaheim, Calif. The next local project will be “Santa’s Magical Arrival on Ice” at Eastdale Mall, November 11. KLynn team members include: Imani Abdullah, Alyssa Allen, Jasmine Anderson, Elisa Bode, Bella Chambers, Heidi Chiou, Mary Jo Fryer, Anna Ryan Hansen, Jamison Hood, Jared Hood, Elle Hughes, Terry Kim, Hannah Lee, Ruel Lee, Lindsay Levy, Alison Magda, Emily Magda, Caroline Rodgers, Libby Rodgers, Jordan Stokes and Elle Jane Tatum.

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Business Card Directory

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AdvertiserDirectory

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

Family Guidance Center, 70

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 90

First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 7

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 23

First Baptist Church, Prattville, 67

New Park, 43

First UMC, Montgomery, 26

New Testament Christian Center, 68

First UMC, Prattville, 75

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 21

Frazer Memorial UMC, 3, 48

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 42

Grand Reserve at Pike Road, 14

Paradise Pumpkin Patch, 64

H.A.L.O. Event, 41

Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 33

Hansen Fine Art Pottery, 61

Prattville YMCA, 38

Health Services, Inc., 85

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 20

Pump It Up Party, 75

Hooper Academy, 83

Riverview Camp for Girls, 79

Hudson Huffman, 90

R.O.C.K., 73

Inflatables of Montgomery, 18

Rockin’ Jump, 28

Interscapes, Inc., 77

Rolling Video Games of AL, 41

Capital Chevrolet, Inside Front

KLynn Ice Skating, 14

Saint James School, 1

Chapman Orthodontics, 85

Kingry Orthodontics, 25

Shade Tree Riding Stables, 49

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 39

Kumon, 15

Smiles Galore Parties, 42

Churchill Academy, 29

Learning Tree Child Care, 44

Spacewalker, The, 31

Cornfield County Farms, 55

Legacy Early Learning Center, 59

Spotless Cleaning Services, 11

Cotton Pickin Pumpkin Patch, 66

Lori Mercer Photography, 21

Success Unlimited Academy, 22

Dentistry for Children, 33

Macon East Academy, 51

Sylvan Learning Center, 27

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 47

Mathnasium, 36

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 89

Dreamfield Farms, 68

MEOW Academy, 25

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 38

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 18

Tooth Buds, 81

E & S Hobbies, 90

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Trinity Presbyterian School, 9

Eastern Oaks Church, 4

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 32

Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 47

Eastmont Baptist Church, 65

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 87

United Gymstars & Cheer, 71

Eastwood Christian School, 37

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 45

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 89

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 59

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 19

Vaughn Road Preschool, 84

Evangel Christian Academy, 31

Montgomery Zoo, 63

Vishnu Dental, 35

Adventure Sports II, 27 Alabama Christian Academy, 2, 69 Alabama Dance Theatre, 35 Alabama Partnership with Children, 60 AL School of Math & Science, Inside Back Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 53 ASKIN/Synergy House, 90 AUM Early Childhood Center, 8 Baptist Health, 13 Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 49 Bradford Health Services, 57

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The Wild Life

Storks

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated The Wild Life PG for mild action/peril and some rude humor. Life on a tropical island looks like paradise to most, but not to a bored parrot (voice of Kaya Yanar) who is sure bluer adventures lurk in faraway oceans. Then, much to his surprise and delight, all the excitement he could hope for washes ashore in the form of a shipwreck. While the broken oddities and splintered boat are interesting, nothing is more amazing than the human being who emerges from the rubble. As it turns out, the castaway is Robinson Crusoe (voice of Matthias Schweighöfer), a character made famous in Daniel Defoe’s classic novel. This version of the story is told through the eyes of the parrot who is eventually named Tuesday, and the rest of the bird’s animal pals: Rosie the Tapir (voice of Ilka Bessin), Carmello the chameleon (voice of Gerald Schaale), Pango the aardvark (voice of Tobias Lelle), Scrubby the goat (voice of Dieter Hallervorden), Epi the porcupine (voice of Aylin Tezel) and another feathered friend called Kiki (voice of Melanie Hinze). Told with all the depth of a Saturday morning cartoon, and looking like the graphics from a video game, this animation simplifies the plot and presents a bumbling Englishman attempting to survive on his own. Feeling sorry for the inept soul, the indigenous creatures lend a wing and a paw to help him build a nest in a large tree. Of course plenty of slapstick antics ensue. Not all of the danger is harmless however. Some drunken pirates make an appearance and try to force the landlubber to join their ranks. And a couple of mangy cats (voiced by Ghadah Al-Akel and Tommy Morgenstern), that also managed to escape the sinking ship, prove to be an ongoing threat. Angry and hungry the pair resolve to seek vengeance on the man, wreak havoc on the larger critters, and eat the smaller ones. (They do succeed in killing a character, and that death is depicted.) The felines’ have a secret weapon as well – their ability to multiply! Soon their increased population is invading the whole ecosystem. Although The Wild Life is only 90 minutes long, it moves along at a plodding pace. The script has little intelligent to share, including (thankfully) any of the agendas many moviemakers seem determined to impart to an impressionable audience. For young viewers, the very black and white characters, silly action and not too scary bad guys may be mildly entertaining. However, it is probably safe to say, most of the adults who accompany them will be as eager to get off this tedious island as Tuesday and Robinson Crusoe.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Storks PG for mild action and some thematic elements. According to folklore, storks have had the honor and duty of delivering infants since the dawn of time. Although often a challenging task, the feathered flyers maintained a flawless record up until eighteen years ago. That was when Jasper (voice of Danny Trejo), one of their ranks, went crazy and destroyed the destination beacon on the bundle of joy he was entrusted with. The serious mishap had long reaching effects. First, the flock was forced to adopt the undeliverable little girl. Second, the parcel distributor decided to quit the baby business. Since then, storks have handled only non-living cargo -- and the decision has proved profitable. The eighteenth anniversary of the event also marks another milestone. The human orphan they named Tulip (voice of Katie Crown) is now an adult, so the big-billed birds no longer need to take care of her. And that’s a blessing because the redhead’s well-meaning contributions to work efficiency usually have counterproductive results. Hunter (voice of Kelsey Grammer), the boss, should be the one to fire her but he’s too chicken to do the dirty work himself. Instead he recruits company climber Junior (voice of Andy Samberg) to do the job. Unfortunately, the underling hasn’t the heart to do it either. Eventually, Tulip finds herself “promoted” to manager of the obsolete mailroom for the now-defunct baby factory. Yet before Junior can congratulate himself for having found a creative solution to the problem, a rogue letter arrives from a child requesting a sibling. Just as quickly the eager new employee fires up production and fills the order. Before he knows it, Junior and Tulip are engaged in a desperate attempt to get the newborn to its rightful home before Hunter discovers what has happened. The ensuing road trip includes perilous situations, scary wolves (voices of Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele), devious penguins, a stool pigeon bad guy (voice of Stephen Kramer Glickman) and several chase sequences. Along the way, the unlikely pair learn to appreciate and have sympathy for each other, as well as work together for the welfare of the wriggling package. While the depictions of silly antics and slapstick violence are occasionally tedious, the animation still has some redeeming qualities. Some of these are found in the secondary storyline about the lonely boy (voice of Anton Starkman) who thinks a younger brother might be a consolation for his work-aholic parents (voices of Ty Burrell and Jennifer Aniston). When he tells them he’s asked the storks to deliver a playmate, Mom and Dad giggle at first. Yet over time his persistence with the idea helps the couple think about some important things they might be neglecting. My favorite part of the movie is something the script calls “baby cuteness.” As contagious as the flu, those who get near infants need to protect themselves by never looking them in the eye and never giving them a name. By the end of the film, just about everyone has been infected by this strange sickness. And it is delightful to see a story celebrate that charm.

What Parents need to know about The Wild Life...

Violence: Portrayals of slapstick and non-graphic violence are frequent. These feature weapons use, hitting, falling, crushing, fire and explosions, as well as hanging from cliffs and ropes. Characters face perilous situations, including shipwreck and pirate attacks. A character is killed, and the deaths of several others are implied. A character suffering from seasickness vomits. Scary looking cats hunt and try to harm other characters: they are also abusive to each other. Skeletons of dead animals are shown. The punishments of walking the plank and the gallows are mentioned. Sexual Content: Mild sexual innuendo occurs. A pregnant cat shows off her large belly and nipples. Language: A couple of mild profanities are used. Alcohol / Drug Use: Pirates frequently drink alcohol, and some of these characters are depicted as intoxicated. Montgomery Parents I October 2016

What Parents need to know about Storks...

Violence: Frequent portrayals of slapstick violence and mild peril. Characters fall, crash and fly into glass windowpanes -- some non-detailed injuries result. Small birds are unwillingly used as ping pong and golf balls. Characters are chased, threatened, stabbed with forks, tied up with ropes, hung upside down and hit with sticks. Some explosions and fires cause property damage. Sexual Content: Parents giggle when a child asks where babies come from. Babies’ bare bottoms are occasionally seen. Some potty humor is included. Language: Name-calling occurs. 92

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ASMS

The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science Come find out if ASMS is right for you by attending a statewide info meeting (see dates below) and visiting our campus for Preview Day on November 12 or December 3. Register for the meeting you plan to attend as well as for Preview Day at www.asms.net. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are

ANNISTON

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 6:00 PM Gadsden State Ayers Campus Learning Resource Center Auditorium 1801 Coleman Rd

AUBURN

Thursday, Oct. 13, 5:30 PM (Central) Auburn University Ross Hall Auditorium, RM 136

BIRMINGHAM

Thursday, Oct. 20, 6:00 PM University of Alabama at Birmingham Heritage Hall, RM 104 1401 University Blvd

ENTERPRISE

Thursday, Oct. 27, 6:00 PM Dauphin Jr. High School Library 425 Dauphin Street

HUNTSVILLE

Wednesday, Oct. 19, 6:00 PM University of Alabama in Huntsville Louis Salmon Library, RM 111 301 Sparkman Drive NW

tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your application today at www.asms.net. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. All ASMS students go to college and most receive merit-based scholarships. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

LIVINGSTON

MONTGOMERY

Thursday, Oct. 13, 6:00 PM University of West Alabama Student Union Small Conf. Room Student Union Drive

Thursday, Oct. 27, 6:00 PM Montgomery Main Library 245 High Street

MOBILE (OPTION 1)

Wednesday, Oct. 26, 6:00 PM Wallace Community College Hank Sanders Tech. Bldg., Conf. Room 3000 Earl Goodwin Pkwy

Thursday, Oct. 6, 6:00 PM ASMS Campus Media Center 1255 Dauphin Street

MOBILE (OPTION 2)

Thursday, Oct. 27, 6:00 PM ASMS Campus Media Center 1255 Dauphin Street

MONROEVILLE

Thursday, Oct. 13, 6:00 PM Alabama Southern Community College Library, RM 101 2800 South Alabama Avex

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net admissions@asms.net

SELMA

THOMASVILLE

Thursday, Oct. 20, 6:00 PM Alabama Southern Community College Library Building 3000, RM 107 30755 Hwy 43 South

TROY

Thursday, Oct. 20, 6:00 PM Troy University Trojan Center Room 212 231 Adams Center

TUSCALOOSA

Tuesday, Oct. 18, 6:00 PM University of Alabama South Engineering Research Center RM 1059

Rigorous Academics. Lasting Friendships.

MA students come from many different backgrounds, but they share one qualityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;intellectual curiosity. We invite you to see what makes MA one of the leading independent schools in the South.

Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y Ask about financial aid options that make an MA education a possibility.

Contact Susannah Cleveland Director of Admissions admissions@montgomeryacademy.org

334.272.8210 montgomeryacademy.org The Montgomery Academy admits students of any race, religion, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school.

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