Don’t let cough & flu tackle you.
Stay in the game. Get your flu and Tdap shots today. Flu can sideline you for up to a month. And pertussis (whooping cough) is highly contagious. Adults and teens often pass it on to younger children who can become seriously ill. Getting protected is quick and inexpensive. Talk to your healthcare provider, and for more information visit download the ADPH app.
or
Creating Champions On and Off the Field Saint James School takes great pride in its rich history of developing leaders in academics, arts and athletics. Since kindergarten, seniors Sadie Argo, Mikal Webb and Jon Smithart have been destined to carry on that legacy–inside the classroom and on the field.
Saint James School for pre k3-12th grade admissions
6010 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery
334.273.2992
stjweb.org
English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
Recognized by Apple as a distinguished school for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence.
1
SJ01-28668-Parents-Sept14.indd 1
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
8/22/14 9:41 AM
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
2
www.montgomeryparents.com
om
DTC will be hosting the 9th Annual
Capital City JAM Tourney September 27, 2014 call 220-5835 for more info!
3
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
S
A K
Your Future Is Here.
Ea ad
Growing Strong With Phase II Underway!
2 R
New Park is becoming the best-selling new home community
New Lots
in the River Region! So it’s no wonder we’re growing. New Park
Lo as
is closer to the newest schools and the newest YMCA than any
Coming Soon
other new home neighborhood. Plus, we offer an incredible selection of beautiful, quality homes in all price ranges.
Stop by our New Home Information Center today!
4 Bedroom/3 Bath with Bonus Room
S’ C H O
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
H
ON O RA
ON
2014
DER
ICE
RE A
Starting in the $250s
TI BLE MEN
334.215.9215
newparkliving.com
9430 Park Crossing, off Ray Thorington Road
For the latest neighborhood news and promotions, follow us on Facebook.®
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
JW01-28896 New Park Ad Montgomery Parents August 2014.indd 1
4
www.montgomeryparents.com
7/24/14 1:23 PM
om
14 1:23 PM
September2014
Volume 19 Number 9
50 Columns
46
6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
Adapted Toys for Kids with Disabilities Easy and inexpensive ways to adapt toys for a variety of play.
Help for Your Child on the Spectrum
Social development and life skills for the autistic child.
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen
32 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee
54 68
36 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Jeffery E. Langham
44 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith
48 Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey
2014 Special Needs Resource Guide
Local and national resources assist you in caring for your child.
You’ve Got It, Mom!
Discover 10 ways to boost your self-confidence as a mother, and as a woman.
On The Cover Gabriel Aaron Pass (age 2) was diagnosed at birth with schizencephaly, which falls under the umbrella of cerebral palsy, and optic nerve hypoplasia, which causes global delays and severe visual impairment. Gabriel and his family lobbied during the spring legislative session for the passage of “Carly’s Law” which will legalize CBD oil for the treatment of otherwise uncontrollable seizures in a UAB Neurology study scheduled to start this fall. Gabriel is a happy, healthy little boy who is much loved by his parents, Frank and Robin Pass of Prattville, three big sisters, and a host of extended family.
5
64 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 72 Calendar/Support Groups 87 Advertiser Directory 88 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Editor’sNote I can so relate to one of our features this month entitled, You’ve Got It Mom! 10 Tips to Boost Self-Confidence. If there’s one thing parenting does, it’s shake your confidence. I remember when we first brought Will home from the hospital and feeling like I didn’t really know exactly what to do. I knew what I had read in books, but I sure wasn’t a natural at first. It was more like going through the motions until things clicked. (When Anna came along, I felt like a pro at the baby stuff, not to mention she was a super easy baby!) Then, when Will hit the terrible twos I was lost again. I would do the best I could each day, feeling like I was either overdisciplining or under-disciplining him most of the time. Once both kids hit about 5 years old we took a walk down Easy Street for several years. I was probably my most confident as a mom when Will and Anna were 5-12 years old. Of course, things wouldn’t stay that way...they would become teenagers! And here we go again, with me wondering why they were behaving a certain way if I was parenting correctly, etc. To top it all off, we then adopted a 14-month-old. I remember thinking...I’ve been through this age twice so at least I know how to do this already. Well, parenting a toddler at 41 was about as challenging as the first time around (not to mention navigating through the attachment that had to happen between us). I think you get my point. Life is ever-changing, parenting is ever-changing, and we often find reasons, whether valid or not, to question ourselves as moms and dads. In Heidi Luedtke’s article, you’ll be challenged to Know Yourself, Get Passionate, Stop Comparing, and Coach Yourself to name a few. Parenting is a long journey so let’s do what we can to feel good about the job we are doing...as long as we are doing our very best! September is also our Special Needs Issue, where we include articles and a resource guide especially for special needs families. Two features not to miss are Social Development & Life Skills for Your Child on the Spectrum and Adapted Toys for Children with Disabilities. Both written by Varina Mead of Easter Seals Central Alabama, you’ll find expert advice here! Our Special Needs Guide for Families shares resources including local therapists, support groups, recreational activities, tutoring and so much more. We hope it will be a help to the families who face many extra challenges on a daily basis while raising their special needs child. We are heading into a beautiful time of year marked by great weather, an exciting football season and outdoor family fun. Keep an eye on our events calendar each month and get ready to make wonderful memories with your children this fall!
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 Laura Handey Malissa Hoy, M.D. Dr. Jeff Langham Heidi Smith Luedtke Varina Mead John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com
Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Savannah Bowden Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Member
DeAnne
deanne@montgomeryparents.com
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
6
Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2014 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.
www.montgomeryparents.com
urce
n the se, unity. nity ess.
Keep6123. g LLC. written mery cese an
om
FAMILY ACADEMICS EXCELLENCE CHAPEL ATHLETICS TECHNOLOGY
Macon East Academy is an independent, college preparatory school focused on excellence in academics, athletics, and achievement. 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 1 - 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.
Macon East Academy
15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566
Located 7 miles east of Chantilly Parkway, just minutes from Montgomery 7
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Nip ‘Sassiness’ in the Bud Q:
The “sassiness” that I have heard so much about from my friends started a few months ago with my 5-year-old daughter. She will say things to me that I actually find myself tongue-tied on how or what to say to correct her. Sometimes, she apologizes, which tells me she knows she’s talking disrespectfully to me. What do you think about ten minutes of time out for this sort of thing? Also, on a recent vacation with another family in which there are two other girls around the same age, my daughter became very competitive. She constantly wanted to “race” to see who would be first, for example. Is this normal for this age?
A: I take it your friends think sassiness is normal for this age child. That may be true today, but sassiness was far from the norm two-plus generations ago. Furthermore, there are still a considerable number of kids this age who are very respectful of adults.
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
It is certainly true that television and electronics in general have altered the behavior of children. Too many of today’s kids, from relatively early on, pick up a very inappropriate manner of talking to adults from characters on television sitcoms. After all, this sassy manner of addressing and responding to adults is almost always followed by the laugh track. This is one of several reasons why I am completely and unequivocally opposed to allowing young children any exposure to television outside of educational programs on channels like Discovery and History. But even without the toxicity of supposedly family fare on television, young kids often pick up sassiness from friends. When she was 8, my daughter had a friend in the neighborhood who talked to her mother like she was a servant or a peer. Amy would sometimes come home from said friend’s house using the same
8
tone with us. When this happened—and without giving her a warning—we would confine Amy to her room for the rest of the day. That curtailed her loose tongue rather quickly. In that regard, I seriously doubt that ten minutes of time out is going to do the trick. If you want this to stop, and you certainly should, then you need to make an impression on your daughter. Time out for an offense of this sort is an example of what I call “trying to stop a charging elephant with a fly swatter.” I recommend the “Amy cure.” As for the competition thing, I strongly encourage you not to give it a second thought. Kids work these sorts of things out among themselves. In fact, intervention on the part of well-intentioned (albeit anxious) adults can prevent children from going through the trial-and-error of certain social processes. Besides, it’s good to know that the natural drive to compete will survive efforts on the part of many schools to squash it by doing absolutely silly things like banning dodgeball.
Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
www.montgomeryparents.com
he er
e
ut
d
gly
t m in
will ols
-
om
9
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
MPAC Events
The Fab Four “The Ultimate Tribute” w/ Special Guest Ed Sullivan Friday, September 5, at 8 p.m. Represents every era of the Beatles everchanging career. CHICAGO the Broadway Musical Oct. 13 & 14 @ 7:30 p.m. Winner Of Six 1997 Tony Awards Including Best Musical Revival
Broadway Under the Stars
Alice Cooper Friday, October 17, at 8 p.m. Tickets: $65, $55, $40, $30
S
d w T
Thursday, September 11 * 7:30 p.m. Join the Montgomery Symphony at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival - Blount Cultural Park. This free outdoor concert will feature Broadway favorites. Gates open at 5 p.m. for picnicking. Special VIP picnics and tables are available by calling the Symphony office at (334) 240-4004. Visit www. montgomerysymphony.org for details.
September 13 * Shoppes at EastChase Scenic 5K and 10K routes. Electronic chip timing system. Race day registration will begin at 6 a.m. Opening ceremony and warm-ups begin at 7 a.m. by the fountain. The event will begin at 7:30. Food, door prizes and free massages will be provided. Free Kids’ Dash. Proceeds benefit the Family Guidance Center of Alabama. Online registration available at http://www.active. com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=2130307.
Auditions for Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells Wetumpka Depot Players October 5 at 5 p.m. & October 6 at 5 p.m. Casting boys and girls ages 12 and above and four adult roles. Production runs the week of December 8 and those cast must be available for weekday performances. Directed by Kristy Meanor.
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Comedy Central Presents BILL COSBY October 24 @ 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $47.
Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Lion, Witch & Wardrobe
September 26-28 Written by C.S. Lewis, adapted for the stage by Jason Robinette. Directed by Jason Morgan, starring young actors, the Playhouse presents a classic tale of good and evil. The four Pevensie children find themselves transported through a magical wardrobe to the ancient land of Narnia, which has been ruled in perpetual winter by the White Witch. The children join forces with the great lion Aslan and an army of mythical creatures to save the land of Narnia. For audiences of all ages. Performances are at 6:30 p.m. September 26-27 and at 2 p.m. September 27-28. $5 per child 12 and under, $10 adult. Call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org to get tickets. 10
ZZ TOP Wednesday, Oct. 29, at 7:30 pm Tickets begin at $47 Black Jacket Symphony Presents Michael Jackson’s “THRILLER” Saturday, November 1, at 8 p.m. Following the album and a brief intermission, the Black Jacket Symphony returns to the stage to perform a collection of greatest hits by the evening’s artist. Ticket Prices: $34, $29 Tickets are on sale for all of these shows at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Call 481-5100 or visit www. mpaconline.org. www.montgomeryparents.com
ac w
e”
r-
4th Annual World Wide Day of Play
Saturday, September 20 * 2-5 p.m. Cooters Pond Park- Upper Level Join the City of Prattville and the U.S. Army for the World Wide Day of Play. There will be obstacle courses for K-2nd grade, 3rd – 6th grade, and 7th – 8th grades. Each course will be designed for those age groups. Medals will be given out in different categories. The Army will provide camouflage face painting for the event.
Family Art Affair @ the Art Museum
Sunday, Sept. 21 * 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to this FREE fun event, and enjoy a jazz combo, art activities in the studios, and wonderful art work in the galleries! Museum exhibition connection: Origins: The First TwentyFive Years of the MMFA Collection.
Moscow Ballet’s
Great Russian Nutcracker Audition to Dance with Moscow Ballet! For ages 7-16 Wednesday, October 8, 6-9 p.m. Register at Nutcracker.com/audition Tonya Speed Dance Connection 3370 Harrison Rd., Montgomery Call 334-277-1098 or e-mail ucantap2@charter.net. Performance will be held Tuesday, November 25, at 7 p.m. at the MPAC.
30th Annual College and Career Night
Monday, September 15 6-8 p.m., Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery. Hosted by The Junior League of Montgomery, this night is designed for high school students in the tri-county area to explore college and career possibilities, gather scholarship information, and find out about financial aid opportunities. FREE to the Public! Financial Aid Seminar begins at 6:30 p.m. For more info, call 334-288-8816.
Zoobilation 2014
Thursday, September 18 6 p.m.-close. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery. Dance to the groove, delight in drinks and food samplings from the finest eateries in the River Region, try your luck at the vast collection of auction items and rub elbows with the area’s finest animal lovers. Zoobilation is a fundraiser geared for adults only. All guests must be 21 years old or older to attend. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased online at montgomeryzoo.com or at the Zoo’s gift shop and museum. For more info, call (334) 240-4900.
ss
et
om
11
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
My Aching Head As adults we have all experienced a pounding headache at some time in our life. Children are no exception. Headaches are a very common complaint in children, especially in girls over age seven. The question now is whether this is a simple headache or something more, and what you can give your child to help. To figure this out we need to look at the different types of headaches. Tension headaches are one of the most common types. It presents in a band-like distribution around the head and is described as a dull throb or persistent tightness. It is due to muscle contraction and usually worsens as the day progresses. It can last a couple of hours or days. Migraine headaches are also common and usually have a positive family history of someone having migraines. Sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, vomiting, and auras are common findings. They commonly present with one-sided pain, throbbing, and increasing severity with activity. They can be triggered by stress, menses, and many other things and can last as long at 72 hours.
Organic headaches are rare and are the most worrisome. They are caused by underlying problems like tumors or other structural anomalies in the brain. They may start out mild, but the severity continues to increase with no relief by over the counter medication. Many are associated with vomiting and early morning awakenings due to headache. Radiologic studies are the key to diagnosing this type. If your child has these types of symptoms it is important to see your doctor. Treatments for headaches other than the organic type are very similar. Over the counter medications are the first thing you can try. Make sure you are giving an appropriate dosage of the medication to give the maximum effect for your child. Keeping a headache diary with information on each headache occurrence, symptoms, and treatment can be very helpful. Eliminating other triggers of headaches is necessary, too. High on the list of triggers for adults and children is stress. While it is impossible to eliminate all stress in your child’s life, helping
him learn how to deal with stress can be a useful lifelong tool. Another area to examine is your child’s sleep habits. Lack of sleep can contribute to headaches and most children do not get adequate sleep. Adolescents and children require 8-12 hours of sleep a day and will function better if allowed to get the required amount. To help with sleep it is recommended that you remove all screens from your child’s room. Screens in the form of TV’s, computers, or phones all interfere with sleep. A third area to evaluate is caffeine intake. Many people are sensitive to caffeine and will have a headache if not consumed regularly. Eliminating or reducing your child’s caffeine intake can make a difference. Finally, if your child doesn’t eat regular meals or drink enough fluids throughout the day they may be setting themselves up for a headache. If your child has frequent headaches try some of these tips and seek an evaluation by your doctor, too. 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 one son.
Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy
OFFICE (334) 271-5959 NURSE LINE (334) 272-6667
Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday Montgomery Parents I September 2014
8:00 am - Evening Appts. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 12
www.professionalpediatrics.com www.montgomeryparents.com
A c
©2013 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
e an
of
h
ke. will y. e r
ry by
est in . n.
om
A unique method with benefits for today, and for life. At Kumon, we personalize our math and reading programs to fit the skill level of each child. That way, children at all levels can grasp any concept on their own and take full ownership of their success. With success comes confidence that can last a lifetime. That’s learning for the long run.
Schedule your free placement test now at these locations Kumon Math & Reading Center of Montgomery - Central 1655 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36106
334.279.1400 • kumon.com/montgomery-central Kumon Math & Reading Center of Montgomery - Southeast Peppertree Shopping Center 8125 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116
334.649.1178 • kumon.com/montgomery-southeast
13
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
kumon.com 1-800-ABC-MATH
Moving in a New Direction We are up and running with great expectations for this 2014-2015 school year. It has been wonderful visiting schools and departments where everyone appears to be happily attending to the business of educating children. While we have new important goals, we could easily fall back into comfortable, less productive, routines. It is critical we remain focused on making great academic strides and helping students get better results. We must be very, very intentional about doing things differently. With one eye focused on the plan that
leads to success, the other must be on the lookout to ensure we don’t fall back to tendencies that are familiar, easy and hindrances to moving us in the right direction. In Montgomery Public Schools, we want to do what is best for children. We are focusing all our resources towards that end. We are determined, but we are still humans serving a community of learners – without judgment. We need the support of parents and community partners who will join us and stay on the path with us. After all, we are building futures for tens of thousands of children. This construction project, just like building a skyscraper, requires blueprints, tools, materials and workers that are all focused on the same goals. Our blueprint is our five-year strategic plan. It outlines the core of our efforts. It was forged with input from
the community, educators, parents and students. The frame is built of solid, respectful relationships. The plan includes accountability and transparency. Our business is engaging, educating and inspiring children. Our new direction requires that those of us who lead know exactly what is happening where the rubber meets the road – in classrooms. We have many opportunities ahead, and we will celebrate every milestone. Keep watching us as we gain momentum with academics, career and technical education, the arts, sports programs and much more. Montgomery Public Schools are heading in the right direction. 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.
INTRODUCING LaToya Clark, MD
Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology The Jackson Clinic is pleased to welcome Alabama native Dr. LaToya Clark, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Clark graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana with a degree in chemistry. She received her medical degree from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile, Alabama. Her residency was completed at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Dr. Clark is a member of the American Medical Association. When she’s not busy seeing patients, Dr. Clark enjoys traveling, boating and sports of all kinds.
Dr. Clark is now accepting new patients at 1758 Park Place, Suite 406 Call today for an appointment at 334-284-1500.
Another great reason to choose www.jackson.org/clinic Montgomery Parents I September 2014
14
www.montgomeryparents.com
s
g on w ub-
d,
m
nd s
sa rasly n m
om
15
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
ACA Offers New Electives For High School Students
Pike Road School Prepares For First Day in 2015
The Town of Pike Road is just a year away from realizing its dream of having an independent school system. Pike Road Superintendent Dr. Suzanne Freeman has the rare opportunity of designing a school system from the ground up, hiring teachers and finalizing curriculum. Classrooms will have non-traditional learning labs, with an emphasis on technology. “Construction, growth options and teacher recruitment are my biggest concerns,” Freeman said. Knowing how many children will attend the school is nearly impossible. From the time the first rendering was approved until the school opens, that number could nearly double. “It’s not a challenge; it’s an opportunity and we will accommodate them,” Freeman said. The school population could range from 700 to 800 students and Freeman expects to hire more than 50 teachers, based on those numbers. There is no current timeline in place to hire a principal. Teacher recruitment days will be scheduled for educators in early 2015. An artist rendering of the school is shown. (Information for this article came from WSFA.com.)
Alabama Christian Academy high school students now have two more elective courses to enroll in that may help them choose a career path for college and beyond. As of the 2014-15 school year, students in grades 9-12 can choose from a variety of elective courses that also now include Creative Writing/Journalism and Forensic Science. These courses were chosen to add to the already-challenging ACA course lists based on administration, faculty and student input. The Creative Writing/Journalism course consists of a semester of creative writing and a semester of journalism. Both are designed to help students who wish to better their writing and explore job opportunities in writing related fields. The Creative Writing portion of the class is designed to give students a chance to write in a variety of genres outside the realm of academic or technical writing. Guest speakers and field trips will be utilized to allow students to observe journalists in action as well as to gain a personal insight into television, radio, and a variety of print media. The Forensic Science class focuses on the analysis of evidence collection, the decomposition process, crime scenes, skeletal remains, toxicology, document validity, and ballistics. Case studies and crime scenarios help students understand the implications and complicated issues that are emerging as the science of forensics continues to develop. The course will include critical thinking, use of the scientific method, integration of technology, and application of knowledge and skills learned to the solving of practical questions and problems. Laboratory investigations will be used in instruction to illustrate scientific concepts and principles and to support inquiry-based instruction. “I have been interested in the forensics areas from television,” ACA senior Chandler Pugh said. “I also really enjoy science and learning about it.” ACA junior Stephen Lin is shown in Forensic Science class as the students were trying to lift a number from a notepad after discussing the different factors that would affect someone’s ability to lift something previously written on that notepad.
ery vo the gra exc yea stu car
tod ide ab to yo len ou lea em ch
Kin Co
S
3
D S
STJ’s Sullivan Ranked Nationally in Track
Saint James School 2014-15 junior John Sullivan qualified to compete in the USATF Junior Olympic National Championships in Houston, Tex. In a field of 50 competitors, Sullivan threw 44.20 at the national meet placing him 13th in the nation in Javelin for his age group. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Catholic Middle Students Named Ambassadors
Montgomery Catholic’s Middle School has named Knight Ambassadors for 2014-2015. These students show leadership, good judgment, maturity, honesty and integrity while upholding their responsibilities of being a student, serving as campus role models. The 2014-2015 Knight Ambassadors are seventh-grade students Sarah Rose Burden, Bobby Crawford, Darian Riley and Anna Sadie, along with eighth-grade students Annie Bach, AnnaMary Gilbert, David Green, Rhys Holifield, Tate Holifield, Gabe McBeal, Thomas McLaughlin and Jevon Murdock. 16
www.montgomeryparents.com
TE C
ts
s ve e
s
MA Head of School Challenges Students and Faculty to Care
MEA Athletes Named AISA All-Metro Players
On the morning of August 12, The Montgomery Academy held its annual opening day Convocation. Student leaders participated by leading the pledge of allegiance and issuing prayers of gratitude. Division heads welcomed students and excited the audience about the upcoming school year. Head of School Dave Farace challenged the students, faculty and parents in the audience to care. Here is an expert from his speech: “The word, and my challenge to each of you today, is to CARE. I challenge you to care about ideas and great literature. I challenge you to care about integrity and responsibility. I challenge you to care about your unique self, your heart, and your spiritual growth. And most important, I challenge you to care for others, to build your capacity for kindness and empathy for people outside of your immediate circle of close friends. When we talk about developing you into leaders, we are not talking about giving you the tools to get on top, we are talking about embracing and practicing an ethic of caring. I challenge all of you to become leaders of character, eager to use your talents for good. I challenge you to care.” Shown, seniors Josh Thomas and Patrick Thackston process with their Kindergarten Buddy, Damion Womack, during Montgomery Academy’s annual Convocation ceremony.
Macon East Academy outfielder and pitcher Deven Kennedy was selected as the AISA All-Metro Player of the Year for the second year in a row. In 2014 Kennedy helped lead her team to a third consecutive state championship and a second consecutive MVP honor for herself in the state tournament. She had a 9-1 record as pitcher for the Lady Knights including a no-hitter in the state tournament, and as leadoff batter hit .535 with 11 home runs, 34 doubles, and 70 RBI’s. Also representing MEA on the All-Metro team were Bailey Singleton, Paxton Searle, Jesi Garrett, Anna Marie Pugh, and Mari Beth Baker (honorable mention). The AISA All-Metro Baseball team had two representatives from Macon East - Chapman Dean and Matt Johnson. Dean was new to the team this year and led the Knights with a .387 batting average and 2.96 ERA. Junior Matt Johnson was consistent on the mound for the Knights all season and batted .380. Chase Center, Casey Henderson, Hunter White and Peyton Whittle received AISA All-Metro honorable mention in baseball.
r
re
ad.
See Your Future Football Player or Cheerleader with a
3D/4D ULTRASOUND Gender Determinations Starting Around 15 weeks
Actual Image From the Womb.
New Location at Once and Again Consignment in Millbrook Sept 27th and Oct 11th
Sessions from Only $50
s
b-
om
TEXT/ CALL
(205) 265-9584
FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT
4141 Highway 14 Millbrook, Alabama 36054
www.4DMommies.com 17
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
ECA Students Support Missions Program
Each year Evangel Christian Academy’s elementary classes adopt a child to sponsor through the Latin American Child Care program. Each month, students from each class bring money to donate to help underprivileged children in Latin America. The money that is given provides the impoverished children with a hot meal each day, medical supplies, clothes and the chance to attend a Christian school. Even more importantly, the program provides the opportunity to share the love, hope and salvation of Christ. Several ECA graduates have continued this legacy of supporting missions by volunteering for mission trips. Some alumni have had the pleasure of meeting the children they helped support.
Macon East Senior Attends Leadership Forum
Hy to pre are Th ye
Macon East Academy senior Mari Beth Baker had the opportunity to attend the Alabama Lions High School Leadership Forum at Troy University June 20-22. The ALHSLF is a three-day leadership forum for high school students from across the state. Throughout the weekend event, Baker and more than 190 other delegates heard from keynote speakers and participated in hands-on leadership exercises. They also visited Camp Butter & Egg where the teams competed in physical challenges and tested their leadership skills.
Brianna Wallace 205.243.8593 lovethesecrazywraps.myitworks.com
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
18
www.montgomeryparents.com
STJ’s Hicks Named Distinguished Young Woman
at
m
n
om
Hyundai Team Members Volunteer at Pintlala
Hyundai Corporation volunteers led by Tim Haseltine recently visited Pintlala Elementary to spruce up the campus before the first day of school. More than 50 volunteers painted, pressure washed, tidied up the front lawn, spread pine straw, cleaned up the garden area, and painted stop sign points for the kindergarten, first- and second-grade classes. This is the third year the corporation has partnered with Pintlala to start the new school year off “beautifully!”
Chess Class Thursdays
Held at Forest Avenue Magnet School Thursdays from 3:40-5 p.m. Brewbaker Middle School Thursdays from 7-7:40 a.m. For more info, contact Caesar Lawrence at CaesarChess@yahoo.com
19
Caitlin Hicks, a senior at Saint James School, was awarded the title of Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) of Pike County and $1,400 in college scholarships August 2. The DYW program evaluates contestants based on scholastics, interview, talent, fitness and self-expression. The program is designed to recognize young women for their achievements inside the classroom as well as in extra-curricular activities. “One of the things I love most is that they don’t give a crown to the winner,” Hicks said. “They give a medal. A crown almost implies they’re encouraging some false princess reality, but a medal means you’ve achieved something through hard work.” Hicks was chosen to represent Pike County in the state DYW competition to be held in January 2015. Winners of the state contests, across the country, advance to the national DYW competition held in June 2015.
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
Macon East Holds July Jammin’ Camp
“Celebrating God’s Green Earth” was the theme for the sixth annual July Jammin’ summer camp at Macon East Academy. Twenty-four lower school students experienced a week filled with devotions, experiments, activities, and even special snacks related to the theme each day. They discovered how terrific trees are, both inside and out, and celebrated sunflowers and watermelons. Everyone enjoyed planting seeds and young plants in their own school garden. The campers went on scavenger hunts, made bird feeders, tasted a variety of sunflower seeds, planted pumpkins, tomatoes, peppers, basil, and flowers, and tested their skills at spitting watermelon seeds. Friday was a “Wet and Wild” day, complete with swimming in a creek at the Alabama Nature Center at Lanark.
Evangel’s Elementary Students Enjoy Spanish
Twice a week, Evangel Christian Academy students from kindergarten through sixth grade attend Spanish class. Teacher Martha Blount lived abroad in Mexico and is excited about the opportunity to share the language and culture with ECA’s elementary students.
Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
Ba his we can Rifl
dri yo ho be
ing gm
an cam an ba ad ga
ho ma hu pra the
soc
are Gr Montgomery Parents I September 2014
20
www.montgomeryparents.com
p
he h
nd
s,
g
om
Tallassee Armory Holds Student Living History
Teachers, bring your class to Student Living History at the Battle for the Tallassee Armory! Spend time at our 1860s living history demonstrations including a spinning wheel, medical tools, weapons, cavalry with live horses, singing, dancing, and of course cannons! This event will be held Friday, November 7, at 19359 Rifle Range Road in Tallassee. Cost is $5 per student and chaperones, teachers and bus drivers are free. Available slots are at 8:30 & 11 a.m. Reserve your class tour early to assure the best time. Allow at least two hours for the tour. If you need to bring your lunch, there is a beautiful picnic area on site. For more information, contact Sharon Kilpatrick, Student Living History Coordinator at (334) 283-2732 or astepbackintime59@ gmail.com.
Catholic Varsity Athletes Host Summer Camps
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s varsity basketball and cheer teams hosted camps at the Catholic Middle/High School campus in June. Basketball camp was held June 2-5 for boys and girls in kindergarten through grade nine. The Knights varsity basketball coaches Ken Klinger and Jill Clark hosted two sessions a day to help further develop campers’ fundamental skills in the game of basketball while enjoying competitions and games. June 23-25, the Montgomery Catholic varsity cheer team hosted a mini cheer camp for girls ages 4-11. Varsity coach Samantha Rose hosted the girls each morning in the Father Delahunty Gymnasium. The girls spent the day learning cheers and practicing stunts. The campers will be invited to cheer at one of the varsity football games in the fall. Montgomery Catholic also offered baseball, football, girls’ soccer and wrestling camps over the summer. Basketball Camp Coaches Jill Clark and Coach Ken Klinger are shown along with the varsity basketball teams and K5Grade 5 campers in the Father Delahunty Gymnasium. 21
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
V
of Sc Th by an wa Ho
Catholic Varsity Cheerleaders Named All-American at NCA Camp
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School varsity, JV and middle school cheerleaders attended a National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) Summer Camp held at Auburn University in July building a strong foundation for their teams for the 2014-2015 year. As part of the three-day camp curriculum, the National Cheerleaders Association focuses on safety, stunts, cheer and chants, jumps and dance. The NCA selects award winners at each camp for individual and team accomplishments. Coached by Samantha Rose, Montgomery Catholic’s Varsity cheerleading team received the Most Improved award and were voted Most Spirited by the other teams in attendance. Two Montgomery Catholic Varsity cheerleaders were selected as All-American team members: sisters Ashley Kim and Audrey Kim. Selection as an All-American is the most prestigious award that can be received at an NCA camp. Participants vying for All-American status are judged on motion technique, jumps, tumbling, spirit and enthusiasm, voice projection, and overall crowd appeal. These individuals are eligible to perform at various NCA Special Events, including the opportunity to walk in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “I have never been so proud! The girls went above and beyond expectations while demonstrating great sportsmanship!” said Coach Rose of the team’s camp performance. Montgomery Catholic’s 2014-15 Varsity Cheerleaders pictured are: Seniors Ashley Kim (Captain), Brianna Foley (Captain), Maegan Cobb, Courtney Cool, Elizabeth Overton, Katie Reeves and Maggie Ward; juniors Kathleen Beesley (Co-Captain) and Eryka Ellington; and sophomores Ivy Bach, Victoria Barranco, Madison Bednarz, Madison Gaston, Audrey Kim, Katie Slear and Lauren Smith.
Sara Wright Named Trinity’s Academic Dean
Dr. Sara Bopp Wright was recently named Academic Dean at Trinity School. Prior to Trinity, Wright served as a state administrator in the Office of Student Learning, Standards/Courses of Study and Textbooks Section at the Alabama State Department of Education. Wright served as a content/process specialist for Alabama Course of Study committees to design content specific curriculum. As the state textbook administrator, she was responsible for the state textbook adoption process and advised local education agencies throughout the State of Alabama. Her teaching experience spans 21of 34 years in public and private education institutions. Dr. Wright has served at the State Department of Education for the last 14 years. Prior to that appointment, she taught Visual Arts, including Advanced Placement (AP), at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School and Carver Creative and Performing Arts Center (CCPAC) in Montgomery. Wright holds a B.S. with a specialty in K-12 Art Education from Auburn University and Masters in Art Education from Auburn University Montgomery. She recently completed the Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership, Policy and Law at Alabama State University. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
22
www.montgomeryparents.com
co vic fac be sch ne ph pla
ha typ rec to the he an
all ge ex his
Mo spo pla In Ge ge aw Co Vo de ba ma
vic Ch cin ta Ja Me
nm t n -
rs
o, .
,
om
BTW Grad Receives Voltz Comeback Award
Christian Foster, a 2014 graduate of Booker T. Washington Magnet High School, is the recipient of this year’s John Thayer Voltz Comeback Award, presented by Jackson Hospital, Rehab Associates and Alabama Orthopedic Specialists. He was honored with a reception at Jackson Hospital on July 31. “Christian exemplifies the idea of a comeback athlete,” said Robert Kohn, area vice president of Rehab Associates. “When faced with an injury that required surgery before the start of his senior year of high school, his courage and determination never wavered. He pushed himself through physical therapy and came back strong to play basketball for Brew Tech.” Foster tore his ACL in July 2013 and had surgery that August – a surgery that typically requires six-to-12 months of recovery time. In mid-January, he returned to play basketball. When Foster was put in the game halfway through the first quarter, he scored on the first three shots he took, and they were all three-point shots. “The crowd went wild because they all knew what he had gone through to get back to play,” Kohn said. “He was an extremely hard worker and did everything his therapists asked of him and more.” John Thayer Voltz was an athlete in Montgomery in the 1990s. He was a threesport standout at Montgomery Academy, playing football, basketball and baseball. In 2006, he was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS). He fought a courageous battle for six years, and passed away in May 2012 at the age of 39. The Comeback Award will be given annually in Voltz’s memory to local athletes who have demonstrated strength and willingness to battle against the odds to recover from a major injury and return to sports. From left are Robert Kohn, area vice president of Rehab Associates; Charles Lee, director of sports medicine; Christian Foster; Jackson Hospital CEO Joe Riley; physical therapist Jason Harris; and Foster’s mother, Melissa Williams.
23
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
M Montgomery County Schools
Brewbaker Middle Teacher Selected as NEA Facilitator
STJ Kindergartners Make a Big Splash
The National Education Association (NEA), which represents nearly 3 million teachers, administrators, and education support professionals, has selected Brewbaker Middle School teacher Victoria Reese as a facilitator for the NEA Great Public Schools (GPS) Network. The GPS Network is an online community where teachers, parents, education support professionals, and other community stakeholders can share ideas and resources aimed at improving student success. Currently, the Network consists of more than 120 groups, managed by facilitators like Reese, that participants can join to address common interests in specific topics and issues that impact educator and student success. Topics are diverse, ranging from bullying to state learning standards, from teacher evaluation to teaching English language learners. More than 1,000 individuals applied to be the inaugural leaders of this new online network. Dr. Reese and 60 others were selected for their knowledge and understanding of their topic; their ability to facilitate a national discussion presenting a range of differing viewpoints; their technology skills, necessary for facilitating an online community; and, above all, their commitment to helping fellow educators improve their skills to foster student success.
ics co gir Th na allwa on be
ing sta for mu sch spo 64
The Saint James School Class of 2027 enjoyed a beautiful summer afternoon getting to know one another, meeting new teachers and having a grand time on water inflatables, wading pools and the everpopular slip-n-slide. Natalie Barton and Grayson Summerlin are HlfPg shown. JLM_HM2014_MGYparents Ad_v2_Layout 1 8/26/14 3:31 PM Page 1
Presented by Junior League of Montgomery
SHOPPING HOURS:
26 t h A N N U A L
Wed., Oct. 15th:
Holiday Market OCTOBER 16-18, 2014
Title Sponsor:
Montgomery Multiplex at Cramton Bowl
TICKETS: Advance: $5 | Daily: $10 | Military/Seniors: $5 | Children 10 & under: FREE
Preview Party 6-9pm $40/person
Thurs., Oct. 16th: 9am-9pm + Holiday How To’s
Fri., Oct. 17th: 9am-9pm + Girls’ Night Out & Cupcakes with Santa
Sat., Oct. 18th: 9am-5pm + Breakfast with Santa, crafts by Paint and Clay
For Advance Tickets and Event Schedule: Call 334-288-8816 or visit www.JLMontgomery.org Montgomery Parents I September 2014
24
www.montgomeryparents.com
es an an ath 3& co foo tac ot to gr for Bo be
gr pr co Co gr as AC an
A day full of excitement and discovery
LE VIL N
80
219 14
22 SELMA
E
LL
I RV
OR
14
TO PRATTVILLE
80
Y OMER
TO
22
80
GH
ES PL ARIO
September 27th - OCtober 31st Mon – Thurs: (Field Trips and Groups Only) Fri – Sat: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sun: 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
ONTG
Alabama Christian Academy announces the start of its elementary football and cheer programs. In May 2014, ACA announced these newest additions to the athletics programs. The Termite (grades 3 & 4) and PeeWee (grades 5 & 6) teams consist of nearly 65 students total. The football program will be a full contact tackle program that will compete against other area private schools. In addition to the elementary football teams, girls in grades 3-6 are also able to join the newly formed elementary school cheer squads. Both football players and cheerleaders began practice August 11. “I am very excited about this program as it will not only build our football program, but expand and unite our ACA community,” said Head Varsity football Coach Bill Moore. “These kids have a great opportunity to represent our school as elementary students, while learning the ACA way of playing football. The lessons and skills learned at these levels will help
TO M
MIN
MA
ACA Begins Elementary Football & Cheerleading
BIR
14
AM
Pumpkin Patch | Corn Maze | Cornhole | Games | Country Store Cow train | Hay Rides | Local Arts & Crafts | Fall decorations
TO M
om
Following a remarkable year in athletics capturing state titles in boys’ cross country, boys’ tennis, girls’ cross country, girls’ soccer, girls’ track, and volleyball, The Montgomery Academy finished in the nation’s Top 25 in the CBS MaxPreps Cup all-sports ranking of athletic programs. MA was ranked number 24 and was one of only two schools in the state of Alabama to be in the Top 25. The rankings are determined by awarding points for finishing first or second at the state level. The number of points received for each championship is determined by multiple factors including the size of the school, the size of the state, and the type of sport. Montgomery Academy accumulated 648 points in the 2013-2014 school year.
TO
e
MA’s Athletic Program Nationally Ranked
14764 Alabama 14 - Valley Grande, AL 36701
334-375-2424 - www.yeargan.com them as the advance to middle school and eventually high school football.” The fall season begins on September 22 against Montgomery Catholic. Shown from left, ACA fifthgrader JT Moorer and sixthgrader Aaron Treubig practice hitting with JV and varsity players Reed Black, Tyler Lumpkin, Hunter Joiner and Elliot Torode at the Elementary Football Camp. 25
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
Trinity Junior Studies in Scotland
This summer, Trinity junior Betsy Byrne spent the month of July immersed in the city of St Andrews, Scotland, while studying Scottish history, culture and politics. On a day-to-day basis, Byrne and her classmates went to morning lectures, afternoon tutorials, and were free to spend the rest of the day experiencing the city life and culture in St Andrews as they pleased. “One of the things I loved was how I spent that month feeling as if I was in college, having the freedom to experience the city, not just the classroom, with my friends,” Byrne said. “I made life-long friendships and had eye-opening experiences I will never forget.” Outside of the classroom, Byrne and her classmates embarked on several excursions including an Archaeological Tour of Fife, climbing to the top of the William Wallace monument, Glamis Castle, Falkland Palace, the Discovery Ship, and various hikes throughout the Scottish highlands. Byrne was able to do various activities independently outside of class as well, including playing golf with friends on the famous Old Course, going to cabarets, learning traditional Scottish dances at a ‘Cedilih’, having picnics by the North Sea, and attending the St Andrews Baptist Church on Sundays. Byrne is shown with Frances Trahar, Summer Program Manager and Admissions Director.
Macon East Volleyball Team Attends Camp at South Alabama
The Macon East varsity volleyball coaches took eight girls to team camp at the University of South Alabama July 10-12. After two days of grueling work and non-stop drills, the Knights played in a team tournament all day on Saturday. The tournament allowed the girls to compete against some of the larger 5A and 6A schools from the Mobile and north Florida areas. The Lady Knights competed well against schools of all sizes and from all over the southeast. They made it into the Gold bracket (top competition) of play on Saturday. Overall, the group developed individually and as a team, and now the girls are preparing for the upcoming season.
Knowledge is profitable because wisdom gives life to those who possess it.
inc (C be Za cam Ha
Ga sio tea ta ta an Bu Sp Ize
fir
At Montgomery Catholic, our students flourish in a rigorous academic environment designed to fully develop their individual God-given gifts — while strengthening their lifelong walk in the Christian faith. Enroll now by calling 334-272-7221 ext. 32, or visit www.montgomerycatholic.org. St. Bede Elementary Campus Holy Spirit Elementary Campus Middle School Campus High School Campus www.montgomerycatholic.org
26
tea Au
at
ECCLESIASTES 7:12
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
C
www.montgomeryparents.com
d
of g e
e
g ot
b-
us
cas ds
y
es
om
Catholic’s JV and Middle School Cheerleaders Attend Cheer Camp
Montgomery Catholic’s JV and middle school cheerleading teams attended a National Cheerleaders Association camp at Auburn University in July and earned the following honors: JV Cheerleaders are coached by Andrea Watson and include freshmen Hannaley Haigler (Captain), Aimee Azar (Co-Captain), Alexandrea Smith, Carrie Belsterling, Elizabeth Londell, Emily Jones, Kameryn Morris and Samantha Zanglin. Catholic’s JV cheerleaders won the spirit each day at camp and four team members were nominated as All-Americans: Haigler, Zanglin, Belsterling and Azar. Catholic’s middle school cheerleaders won first place in the Game Day Top Team competition for the middle school/ JV division. The middle school team is coached by Shanisty White and team members include eighth graders Isabelle Saliba (Captain), Isabelle Cochran (Co-Captain), Kacey Lyn (Co-Captain), Kendall Couey, Raegan Herbek, Sarah Krasnowiecki and Elizabeth Talbot; and seventh-graders Sarah Rose Burden, Anna DuBois, Sofia Izer, Anna Sadie, Elizabeth Speirs and Kinley Tadlock. Herbek, Cochran, Speirs, Tadlock, Izer and DuBois were All-American Nominees. Montgomery Catholic’s JV cheer team is shown above at NCA camp at Auburn. Below, Catholic Middle School cheerleaders receive first place at NCA camp.
27
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Catholic Kicks Off Year With New Classes
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School kicks off 2014 with new class offerings, improvements at each campus, a new principal, and a new athletic director. The Montgomery Catholic high school campus proudly debuts a new class, Engineering Essentials, an experiential learning environment that will revolve around hands-on projects like designing and testing rockets, building robots, planning and constructing bridges, and building catapults. The middle school campus will offer three new electives, allowing students to explore their God-given gifts, including choir, drama and public speaking. Both elementary campuses will look a little different this year. Construction on our brand-new gym at our Holy Spirit campus will be completed this fall under the watchful eye of the new campus Principal Matthew Monson, and our St. Bede campus courtyard is being refurbished as an outdoor classroom and early childhood recreation space. Finally, we welcome Montgomery Catholic alum Daniel Veres ‘93 back to campus to lead our Athletic Department. Below, Montgomery Catholic K4-6 principal Matthew Monson in front of the Holy Spirit campus gym under construction.
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
28
www.montgomeryparents.com
stu sim de sch
fam wa bo ma stu lar Stu tem in
my stu in the by su Hit
act wa my pa Se
ar
a r. ol i-
td
er
-
s d
MA Seventh-Grade Students Participate in Interactive Unit Tankersley firm spoke to the students about the process residential architects go through for creating custom homes. Students examined blueprints of a McAlpine-designed home as well as plans of the Robie House. They learned about texture, material and scale in design and even saw a scale model of a home the firm designed for a family. Students concluded the lesson by using Legos to design their own model homes. Through the collaboration of all the core seventh-grade teachers, students learned not only about their summer reading novel The Wright 3, but about art, history, design, drama, math and science. “This interactive unit was a fun way to study the book that I will never forget. I enjoyed building with Legos, using my imagination, and learning new things,” said student Cam Holmes. Shown, after learning about design from architects John Sease and Lida Sease, Jalen Daniel proudly displays his Lego creation.
Over the summer, Montgomery Academy’s seventh-grade students read the book The Wright 3 by Blue Balliett. Instead of simply writing a book report or taking a test on their reading, students participated in an interdisciplinary study of the novel once school began in August. Because he is mentioned in the novel, students discussed famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s life and career and even watched a documentary by Ken Burns in their history class. The book’s main focus is Wright’s Robie house; therefore, in both math and history classes, the students discussed abstraction and studied different examples of abstract art, examining in particular Frank Lloyd Wright’s art glass windows in the Robie House. Students even had the opportunity to use their iPads to design templates for the art glass designs they would later make to hang in the school library. Fibonacci Numbers, which play an important part in the mystery in The Wright 3, were studied in Life Science class and students discovered how Fibonacci numbers appear over and over in nature and play an important part in the human body. Even the Drama teacher became involved in the interdisciplinary unit, by relaying to the students how director Alfred Hitchcock used suspense in his films. Students even had the opportunity to watch Hitchcock’s film Rear Window, which plays a role in The Wright 3. Of course in English class, students analyzed the book’s characters and their problem-solving methods. Students studied the ways the characters described the house and worked to solve the mystery occurring within the home. However, the most exciting part of English class that week was when visiting architects John Sease and Lida Sease of the internationally renowned McAlpine-
-6
r
om
29
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Montgomery County Schools
mi the Sc the sh Fro De Un ho gro na to
ACA Announces Retirement Of President Ronnie Sewell
Alabama Christian Academy President Ronnie Sewell will retire at the end of the 2014-2015 academic year. Sewell first joined Alabama Christian in 1981 as an English teacher and head basketball coach, but his role soon grew to include such responsibilities as Dean of Students and High School Principal before taking a leave to serve as the president of Jackson Christian School from 1990 to 1998 and the superintendent of Central Arkansas Christian from 1998 to 2002. He returned to Alabama Christian to begin his tenure as its president in 2002. The Board has asked Sewell to work with ACA in leading certain fundraising efforts following his retirement as president. “It has truly been a blessing for me to have served Alabama Christian Academy for twenty-one years,” said Sewell. “This year is my twentysecond year. Even though the years came in two different ‘tours of duty,’ in some ways it was as though I never left. God has granted me the opportunity to work in three different Christian schools over the past thirty-four years. While all are good schools, I can say without reservation, the time God granted me at ACA has been one of the greatest blessings of my life.” Under Sewell’s leadership, Alabama Christian’s Advanced Placement program was initiated and has continued to grow and flourish. ACA was one of the first schools in the state to adopt a one-to-one iPad initiative. Enrollment reached an all-time high making Alabama Christian one of the largest private schools in central Alabama. The school’s long-term debt was retired. The face of campus improved with the construction of the school’s Fine Arts building, enhancements to the football stadium at Wade Black Norton field and Denise Ainsworth Field which hosts the nine-time state champion ACA Lady Eagles softball team. The Board of Alabama Christian Academy has formed a succession committee and is prayerfully searching for the next president to build on the foundation laid by Sewell and many before him.
Macon East Competes at UCA Cheer Camp
The Macon East varsity and junior varsity cheerleading squads had a great week at the AISA East Division UCA Cheerleading Camp. Awards for the varsity squad, shown at top right, included 1st place Extreme Routine, Medium Squad Varsity Camp Runners-up, and the Traditions Award. All five seniors were selected to represent MEA on the AISA East All-Star Cheer Squad: Kenzie Gourlay, Taylor Jackson, Morgan Long, Cameron Redding and Dallas Sanders. Also, six team members were selected as UCA All Americans: Kenzie Gourlay, Taylor Jackson, Morgan Long, Cameron Redding, Dallas Sanders and Rai Pritchett. Two Macon East seniors, Cameron Redding and Dallas Sanders, were invited to try out to join the UCA staff next summer. The junior varsity squad, at bottom right, had an excellent showing at camp and received the following accolades: 1st place Home Pom, 1st place Extreme Routine, 1st place Game Day, 1st place Cheer, 1st place Overall Game Day Champions, and East Region JV Camp Champions. Caitlin Martin and Calley Bocchino were selected as Junior Varsity UCA All Americans. Kathy Loomis is cheer coach. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Catholic Celebrates Faculty Milestones
Sa Ch ST
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School held its 2014-15 faculty and staff retreat at Jasmine Hill Gardens in Wetumpka August 11. The program began with Mass celebrated by Fr. Linn Harbour from Maxwell AFB, Holy Family Catholic Community. Anne Ceasar, president of Montgomery Catholic, celebrated milestone anniversaries for nine faculty and staff members. For 10 years of service, they are Lee Anne Barranco and Kerri Moore; 15 years of service, Coach Jill Clark and Ruth Glenboski; 20 years of service, Mary Forsyth and Lori Riggles; 25 years of service, Faith Johnston; 30 years of service, Lynn Downes; and celebrating 35 years of service to the school, Rod Bourke. Ceasar also celebrates a 10-year anniversary with Montgomery Catholic this year. Shown, Montgomery Catholic celebrates faculty and staff anniversaries before school starts. From left are: 10 years of service, Anne Ceasar, school president; Kerri Moore, High School Faculty; and Lee Anne Barranco, Elementary Librarian; 15 years of service, Ruth Glenboski, Elementary Faculty; and Jill Clark, High School Faculty & Basketball Coach; 20 years of service, Mary Forsyth, Business Office; 25 years of service, Faith Johnston, Elementary Staff; and 30 years of service, Lynn Downes, Business Office.
e 30
www.montgomeryparents.com
STJ Alums March Across America
After traveling more than 10,000 miles on charter buses across the country the last three months, three Saint James School alums culminated their summer at the Drum Corps International Championships in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. From Rome, NY to San Antonio, Tex. to Denver, Colo., they have seen much of the United States even while rehearsing 12-14 hours a day and competing with other groups more than 40 times. This extraordinary level of competition is often referred to as the ‘Super Bowl of Marching Music.’ Shown from top to bottom are Savannah Smith, STJ ‘12, Alexander Chung, STJ ‘14 and Madison Smith, STJ ‘14.
reka s
y.
ies
f nh
re of
ah Jill
om
Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. 31
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
This is truly one of my favorite times of the year! The excitement of a new school year is hard to beat and I have some exciting news to report to you! Autauga County’s ACT scores increased again in 2014, up from 21 to 21.4. This is a significant increase considering the already high score. I contribute this accomplishment to outstanding teachers, administrators, students, and parents. Improving children’s education, and in turn their futures, requires a team effort. When everybody is aiming for the same goal, this type of academic advancement is the result! That is what Autauga County is all about! A WalletHub Study that was recently published in the Montgomery Advertiser does not come close to representing the type of academic experience students receive in Autauga County public schools. It ranked
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Alabama 49th out of all the states. Autauga County Schools rank above the national average on the ACT and graduation rate. Scholarships for our graduating seniors has increased from 5 million in 2012 to 7.5 million in 2014. These results are outstanding, especially when we keep in mind that Autauga County is funded last in per pupil expenditures in Alabama. We rank 135th out of 135 school systems. In 2013, we had an expenditure of $7,201 per student. Lowndes County spent $13,084 per student, which is the highest amount for a county school system. Homewood City spent $12,719, which ranks first in per pupil expenditures for a city school system. Ask me how Autauga County is able to achieve above the national and state average, and I will respond with one word – “teachers.” Teachers are the backbone of any school or school system, and Autauga County teachers are unsurpassed! Despite being the worst-funded system in Alabama, our results are among the best! It is always a pleasure to recognize Autauga County’s outstanding educators for their accomplishments. Prattville High
32
School principal, Richard Dennis, has been selected to serve on the board of directors of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools for the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals. He will bring a wealth of knowledge to the board. Ms. Victoria Whitfield, Secondary Instructional Coach, was one of 200 teachers who received training this summer as a part of Learn Zillion’s 2014 Dream Team. She will share her talent by providing valuable resources for not only the students of Autauga County, but also nationwide. Finally, Ms. Sara Hallman from the Autauga County Technology Center was inducted into the Career Tech Hall of Fame. Ms. Hallman has been an educator for 44 years. Congratulations for this grand honor! Next month I will inform you of any increase or decrease in school enrollment this year. 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 ator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.
www.montgomeryparents.com
AR12-305
of s
14
s .
r!
uga n ri-
n
om
GRAPHIC PRINTS IN VIBRANT HUES
COZY WRAP COATS
FLIRTY MINI DRESSES
CHUNKY KNIT CARDIGANS
ANIMAL ACCENTS
STATEMENT MAKING SNEAKERS
ONLINE ON FACEBOOK OR EASTDALE-MALL.COM BELK, DILLARD’S, JCPENNEY, SEARS & OVER 85 SPECIALTY SHOPS, INCLUDING CHUCK E. CHEESE’S® AND THE RIVER REGION’S ONLY BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP® 33
AR12-30586 Montgomery Parents Ad 9/14.indd 1
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
8/21/14 8:52 AM
C
Autauga County Schools
PCA Juniors Attend Leadership Institute
Prattville Junior High Improves School Appearance
Prattville Junior High School worked on three main projects this summer: updating the stage area in the gym, above; repainting murals, below, and re-planting flower beds in front of the school. We will continue to work on these projects and appreciate all those who have supported our efforts and pitched in to make this a school of excellence.
Prattville Christian Academy President Ron Mitchell and PCA juniors Hannah Walker, Addison Grissett, Mitchell Davis and Reid Deason just returned from a trip to York College in Nebraska, where they participated in The Presidential Leadership Institute. Specifically designed for students in grades 10-12, the Presidential Leadership Institute was designed to promote leadership development among high potential students in Christian high school settings. More than 27 students from six high schools in four different states attended the Institute, which was created after York College became involved with Strata Leadership, LLC out of Edmund, Okla. York College, along with Strata Leadership, approached the National Christian School Association about developing a plan to bring students from private Christian schools to the York College campus for a weeklong camp dedicated to leadership development, character building, and Midwestern values. Each invited school was asked to bring the top student leaders from their campus and establish a project they would like to accomplish for their school. The students also spent the week developing personal leadership skills and hearing from speakers on various leadership subjects. Each day had a new theme: Faith, service, leadership and character were included. Throughout the week, the students had many field trip opportunities, including a visit to the state capitol where they were able to meet with Senator Greg Adams who spoke to them about the Nebraska Unicameral before eating lunch at the Governor’s Mansion where they were greeted by Governor Dave Heineman. Walker, Grissett, Davis and Deason all attended the program as representatives of Prattville Christian Academy. York College Professor and Presidential Leadership Institute Speaker Tim Lewis said the visiting students exceeded his already high expectations. “They have just been above and beyond what we expected in their gifts, their ability to lead and their desire to learn about leadership and bring it back to their school,” Lewis said. **Portions of this article were taken from an article in the New York Times by Maegan Detlefs. From left are Reid Deason, Hannah Walker, York College President Steve Eckman, Addie Grissett, Mitchell Davis and PCA President Ron Mitchell.
Billingsley School Raises the Bar for its Students
The Alabama State Department of Education and A+ College Ready Advanced Placement Initiative has selected Billingsley School to participate as a “Pipeline School” in a statewide Advanced Placement Initiative Program designed to increase student enrollment and success in honors and pre-AP coursework preparing them for rigorous college math, science, and English courses. Teachers participate in extensive training to implement a demanding curriculum incorporating lessons and strategies to align with the Alabama College and Career Readiness Standards. Visit http://www.apluscollegeready.org, www.nms.org, and www.alsde.edu for more information. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
34
www.montgomeryparents.com
Th ho Oc Pra co Ala Ch tvi to wit ba we tvi mo
M
Mo an Ma the Clo rec on like div elim son top be ch pla Ea Th
,
Statewide Band Competition in Prattville
The Pride of Prattville Marching Band will host the Heart of Dixie Marching Festival October 11 at Stanley Jensen Stadium in Prattville. It will be a day spent watching competing high school bands from all over Alabama. Please contact Band Director Chris King at (334) 365-8804 or at prattvillebands.com if you would like your band to participate in this wonderful day filled with music. For those who like to watch band competitions, we welcome you as well. Start times will be announced at prattvillebands.com as the date of the festival moves closer.
GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME
o
r
d ve
EVANGEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY MA/PCA Duo Win State Mixed Doubles Title
Montgomery Academy junior Bo Torbert and Prattville Christian Academy senior Madison Thompson had a great time on the court together during the USTA State Closed Tennis Tournament at Lagoon Park recently. Although the two had never been on a court together, they played doubles like seasoned partners. The 18 and under division had a draw of sixteen with single elimination format. Torbert and Thompson defeated four other doubles teams of top-ranked juniors from across the state to become the 18 and under Mixed Doubles champions. Torbert was the #2 singles player for the Montgomery Academy Eagles during the 2014 tennis season, and Thompson played #1 singles for PCA.
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
OpEn EnROLLMEnT K -12 Mention this ad and receive $50 off Registration
Accredited: AISA, SACS-CASI, & ACTS
3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882
ts
o he
re
om
35
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
These first days of school have whisked by at a furious pace, but we are off to an outstanding start this year. Here are just a few things causing a lot of excitement here in our district! We are launching into a partnership with Central Alabama Community College for a Career Tech dual enrollment program in Robotics. As I have stated before, our Robotics program here in our school system has garnered attention on regional, state, national, and even international levels. Last spring, the Business Council of Alabama (BCA) recognized Dr. Virginia Vilardi and the Wetumpka High School Robotics Team for their stellar achievements in the 2013 South’s BEST Competition. What a thrill to see our WHS students receive a standing ovation from an audience featuring former Governor Bob Riley, former State Superintendent of Education Joe Morton, State Superintendent of Education Tommy Bice,
Alabama Commission on Higher Education Chief Mark Heinrich, representatives from Governor Robert Bentley’s office, numerous state legislators, and numerous business VIPs from across the state. What a mountaintop experience for Wetumpka High School and the entire Elmore County School System! So, of course, I am thrilled that we are expanding opportunities in Robotics here in our district. A new Culinary Arts program is on its way to Holtville High School (HHS). Family and Consumer Science Teacher Mrs. Teresa Long attended the College of Le Cordon Bleu this past summer for training in preparation for this exciting addition. Elmore County High School (ECHS) has partnered with First Community Bank (FCB) and now has a branch of the bank on its campus that opened just last month. The bank is operated by eight ECHS students coupled with an employee from FCB. The students completed a six week internship program during the summer. The renovation of the bank area, located in the former cafeteria on the campus, was completed by construction classes at the school. What an ideal school and community business partnership! Both Holtville High and Elmore County High have also demonstrated excellence as our two newest schools in the A+ College Ready/Ad-
vanced Placement (AP) Program. We have seen a 300% increase in qualifying scores at ECHS in the past two years. Those AP students who achieve qualifying scores are able to clep college classes, which provides both an academic and financial benefit for students and their families. Holtville High School has demonstrated a 120% increase in qualifying scores in its first year with the A+ College Ready grant program. We are also proud of our other two high schools, Wetumpka High and Stanhope Elmore High, that have completed the AP grant and have maintained their standards of excellence. It is important to note that national research has shown that those students who participate in AP programs and in dual enrollment programs have a higher rate of completing a college degree. Dual enrollment, Culinary Arts, Campus Banking, and Advancement Placement Triumphs….just a few reasons why this is shaping up to be an “awesome year” in the Elmore County School District. Jeff Langham is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. Now in his eighth year as the system’s leader, he has a total of 27 years of experience in the field of education. Langham is an active member at Landmark Church in Montgomery. He and his wife, Ginny, a nurse educator, have one daughter, Weldon.
8 Montgomery Parents I September 2014
36
www.montgomeryparents.com
na he e s,
e
A Pirate’s Life For Me
ve
ch
ms
re
om
ARRH MATEY! Young & Old, The Pirate Cruise has Something for Everyone! TM
Cruise Away into the Fantasy World of Friendly Swashbucklers & Pirates! 2-Hour Cruises • Dolphin Sightings • Great Music • Cold Beer • Fun for all ages!
850.234.7400
5325 North Lagoon Drive, Panama City, Florida 32408 Located at Lighthouse Marina Next to Boatyard Restaurant
THE GREATEST SIGHTSEEING ADVENTURE ... EVER! 37
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
R Elmore County Schools
Representative Holmes Presents Community Service Grant Funds
Alabama District 31 Representative Mike Holmes presented a Community Service Grant check for $4,000 to Elmore County Superintendent Jeff Langham to address needs in our local schools as the new school year begins. District 31 encompasses all of the schools in the Holtville, Wetumpka and Eclectic school zones. “What a timely gift to our schools and students,” said Dr. Langham. “These funds may be used to address unexpected needs that may present themselves in our classrooms and on our campuses. Representative Holmes has been especially diligent in pursuing these funds for us and on behalf of our district, I extend our deepest gratitude for his efforts.” Dr. Jeff Langham and Mike Holmes are shown with some of the county’s new teachers that were attending a training session.
Seasoned Seniors Organization Donates Supplies to ARIS
The Seasoned Seniors Organization of Millbrook collected and presented school supplies to Airport Road Intermediate School Principal Marcia Stephens and Assistant Principal Sharon Earl in early August. These supplies were then distributed to ARIS students. Mrs. Stephens and Mrs. Earl are shown with the Seasoned Seniors.
Stu cla thr Ac on 42 wit wir the ces AR roo an
On spo ad an op tio stu of thi Stu Te joy nit tha
e Montgomery Parents I September 2014
38
www.montgomeryparents.com
f
es al
om
Redland Equipped With New Computers
Students from Mrs. Williford’s 2nd grade class at Redland Elementary School use three new classroom computers to take Accelerated Reading tests during the second week of school. Over the summer, all 42 classrooms at Redland were equipped with three desk-top computers and one wireless laptop computer. It’s exciting for the students, who will now have more access to in-room computers be able to take AR tests, research for papers and classroom experiments, play educational games and learn typing skills.
Holtville Sponsors Club/Activities Fair
On August 15, Holtville High School sponsored a Club/Activities Fair during the advisory period. During this event, clubs and student organizations were given the opportunity to promote their organization at display tables and educate fellow students about their organization. Some of the organizations that participated in this event were DECA, Junior Civitan, FFA, Student Government Association, Fishing Team, and Culinary Club. The students enjoyed learning about the various community service and leadership opportunities that the organizations offer students.
Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. 39
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
A In Elmore County Schools
Tallassee Starts Off New Year
Eclectic Elementary Recognizes Art Winners
More than 1,900 students returned to Tallassee’s three campuses August 13. Tallassee Elementary enrolled around 770 students in kindergarten through 4th grade. The number registered at Southside Middle School is 580. There are approximately 570 students at Tallassee High School. “We are very pleased with the preparations that have been done this summer,” said Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Varner. “Schedules are complete. The buildings are ready. Personnel positions have been filled.” The gymnasium at Tallassee High School just received new air conditioning. A new weight room facility is being constructed next to the stadium. And, THS students are in year two of the “One-to-One Initiative,” which provides every student with his very own iPad. Principals, below from left, are Jose Reyes, Tallassee Elementary; Bruce Dean, Southside Middle; and Matt Coker, Tallassee High.
Sparking the Arts is an Outreach Project of the Elmore County Art Guild and the KFMG. An exhibition and awards reception was held for winners August 14. Shown are winners from Eclectic Elementary. Gold Award: Stryker Shick; Silver Awards: Rachel Allen, Leah Watson and Paisley Williams; Bronze Awards: Ophelia Bentley, Nadia Storrs, Aubrey Strouse and Hanna Winn.
Int ser off St Pa Mis en lin tan the “W
an str ex Th dis to the
Pa
P
On Gr its the 20 be do ers sh the
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
40
www.montgomeryparents.com
d dy.
n
om
ARIS Faculty Attend In-service Training
The faculty and staff of Airport Road Intermediate School attended a special inservice and training session July 29 to kick off the new school year. Principal Marcia Stephens invited inspirational speaker Pastor Marcus Collins from Lake Elam Missionary Baptist Church to motivate and encourage the faculty and staff. Pastor Collins reminded teachers about their important role in students’ lives and challenged them to move forward from questioning “Why?” to answering “Why not?” Teachers also reviewed College and Career Ready Standards, discussed strategic lesson planning techniques, and explored project-based learning resources. They brainstormed teaching strategies and discussed a variety of teaching methods to best meet the varied learning styles of their students. Principal Marcia Stephens and Pastor Marcus Collins are shown.
Holtville High Band Prepares For Season
On August 1, the Holtville High School Green Machine Marching Band completed its week of Band Camp. During the week, the band and auxiliaries worked on the 2014 season’s show, “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Band Camp culminated with a hot dog supper sponsored by the band boosters and a sneak preview of the half time show. Parents and band members enjoyed the night of music and food.
41
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Wetumpka High Welcomes New Administrators
Wetumpka High School welcomes new administrators for the 2014-15 school year. From left, Dr. Robbie Slater is the new head principal, while Benetta Eutsey, Nick Davis and Bonnie Sullivan are assistant principals.
Tallassee City Schools Given Excellence Award
Tallassee City Schools recently received eBoard Solutions’ 2014 Newcomer Award of Excellence for the Best Use of the Meeting Module. This award is given to the school district that best demonstrates a high level of competency using the system over the past twelve months or less. Winners from across the Southeast were recognized during the GSBA Summer Conference in Savannah. Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Varner expressed his pleasure with the Board’s transition to eBoard. About one-third of Alabama school districts have transitioned to eBoard’s digital platform. “This truly demonstrates that our Board possesses a deep understanding of the critical impact that technology can have at the governance level,” he said. “I am so proud that our Board wanted to be a trailblazer in the digital arena. It speaks volumes about their vision for the future.” Varner outlined some of the advantages to moving online with meeting materials, which included reducing paper consumption and maintaining a digital public record of our meetings. “It insured 100% transparency to our meetings by providing the public with access to the same materials that Board members receive,” Varner said. “And with the high school going one-to-one, it was important that the Board model the use of technology and embrace a digital environment as well.” The public can view Board meeting packets online by clicking the eBoard icon on the district’s webpage at www.tcschools.com. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
42
www.montgomeryparents.com
ar.
s-
s d
d f
of
na s
d cal erur al
s
n ur o cgh
cke
om
43
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Ready for Launch and the Sky’s the Limit
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
Kids learn how to launch their possessions early in life. It usually starts with their pacifier launched via an explosive puff of air that sends parents scrambling to collect it (within five seconds –as a rule). Finding delight in both the launch and the landing, children are quick to pick up the physics of force and momentum as they later heft more toys into the air. And while it’s no fun reclaiming the kid-propelled items that occasionally make their way onto the roof of the house, fostering their enthusiasm for launching toys is worth the air time. There are hidden physic lessons as they learn about force, trajectory and mass along the way! The sky’s the limit with these toys and games that break the bonds of gravity and send playtime soaring!
by Gerry Paige Smith
Robotic UFO Helicopter
When Pigs Fly
Remote controlled air vehicles have come so far in recent years. The Robotic UFO Helicopter is super lightweight and enclosed in a semi-flexible spherical frame. This vehicle launches smoothly and follows a trajectory and altitude directed from a simple-to-use remote control. With a flight-time of about 10 minutes between battery charges, it’s an easy-to-master entry into the RC aircraft fleet. The spherical frame protecting the propeller gives the moving parts a good measure of ‘bounce-back’ protection as rookie pilots launch into occasional obstacles while their RC skills evolve. Best enjoyed by kids eight and up, the Robotic UFO Helicopter lets young pilots quickly launch their budding career as remotecontrol masters of the sky!
A hilarious twist on an old expression, ‘When Pigs Fly’ brings home the bacon for energetic game play! Players have their own collection of pigs in their pen that they must get rid of to win. Using the game’s cannons, pigs (attired with their own stylish scarves) are propelled upward in hopes that their scarf will stick in the cloud cone. And while players feverishly are launching their porcine pieces, they’re also taking turns with a spinner that may compel them to add more pigs to their pen, give pigs to another player, or other actions that may help or hinder their mission to get rid of their pigs. It’s fast, fun and definitely hogs the action in the board game closet!
(Happy Cow)
(Poof Slinky)
Ultra Stomp Rocket
Hot Wheels Mega Jump
(D-L Company)
In the market space for stomp rockets, the Stomp Rocket Ultra takes the high ground with a smart, durable design that sends lightweight rockets soaring upward with ease. Including 4 foam-tipped rockets, the batteries-free set uses the force of a child’s stomp on an air pad to launch the rockets skyward. Timid steps on the launch pad quickly evolve to enthusiastic stomps that send the foam projectile far afield (and the rockets’ foam design ensures that landings are harmless and damage-free to surroundings). Exposing young minds to trajectory, projection, force and motion – this intro to rocketry is one giant step toward stellar playtime!
(Mattel)
There is almost no time between the moment little hands learn to roll a toy car across a table and the instant that same car becomes airborne with imagined jumps and stunts. As kids seek reputable roadway for their cars to journey farther (and higher) the Mega Jump is an ideal addition to every Hot Wheels enthusiast’s tool kit! With clamps that mount on the child’s chosen obstacle, the challenge is to propel their auto with just enough force to launch and land after a huge jump. Best with additional Hot Wheels track to maximize the run up to launch, unleash your kid’s inner ‘Dukes of Hazard’ with the Hot Wheels Mega Jump track accessory!
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
44
www.montgomeryparents.com
BH01-295
“You probably
think your heart is fine.
Before my Advanced Heart Check, so did I.”
l-
r
p he e s .
Sue Spencer had no idea she had a problem with her heart when she and
3D IMAGE
her husband went in for an Advanced Heart Check at Baptist Health. “I was
ADVANCED
more concerned about my husband when we went,” she says. And that’s when
HEART CHECK
she got the news that one of her arteries had 80% blockage. After open heart surgery that probably saved her life, Sue doesn’t hesitate to recommend the test to everyone. “$199 is a small price to pay for something that could save your life, or at the very least give you peace of mind.”
199
$
Call (334) 273.4450 to schedule yours today. NOTHING BEATS A
Happy HEART
45
om
BH01-29510-MGMParentsad-May14.indd 1
BaptistHeartHealth.com www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
4/21/14 10:42 AM
ma oth se
•
ac wo ch kin pa Se to am the he ea
•
wit fru pe pla bo tio an ing ma
• Action figure adaptations - You will need the figure(s), poker chips and hot glue. Glue the figure’s feet onto the poker chip and viola! You now have a stable mini-figure for play!
Every parent is always on the lookout for new, fun, educational, developmental and inexpensive toys for their child. A parent with a special needs child can find toy shopping to be more of a frustration and challenge. Adapted toys are one of the many sub-categories of Assistive Technology (AT) which refers to devices, tools and adaptations made to objects to help your child (or any individual) do something they may not have otherwise been able to do. AT can come in many shapes, sizes and packages. It can be purchased off the shelf, customized, can be high tech or low tech, or developed to fit a specific need. AT can help your child to move independently and explore the world around her. With the assistance of AT, your child can attend birthday parties, participate in family routines and activities, play and explore books and toys to help advance learning! In this article, we will explore options you can use to adapt toys you probably already have, easily and inexpensively, to help your child with a variety of play. A couple of tools of the trade are hot glue guns (keep out of reach of children) and battery interrupters. If you are not familiar with those items yet, just wait, you will be and you will find them to be a very valuable tool in your box. Below are some simple adaptations made to classic toys and activities to help make it easier and less frustrating for you and your child to play and learn! Montgomery Parents I September 2014
• Games – Use puff paint or glue to outline the sections on a board game. Add velcro to each section and attach to game pieces for added stability and ease of placement. For card games, consider using a hairbrush to slide cards into for stable holding or cut a “shelf” out of a piece of inexpensive foam!
Art – Crayon/pencil holders can be made out of many different things depending on your child’s grip. A foam ball (similar to a stress ball) can be used as a grip for a crayon when a small incision is made and the crayon securely inserted. A pill bottle with an “x” cut at the bottom can also be used to securely insert a crayon for easier grasp. For painting, consider sponge painting (an insert can even be added to help with grip if needed), or add paint into an empty roll-on deodorant container to roll-on the paint!
•
Small motorized cars/toys – Purchasing a battery interrupter (at Radio Shack, Amazon.com and other stores with prices ranging from $11-$150) and adding it to almost any battery operated device can allow your child to operate •
46
www.montgomeryparents.com
many of the toys he/she wants and sees other kids playing with, all by themselves!
• Reading – This is such an important activity that any adaptation you find that works…do it. You may find that a giant chip clip or giant paper clips (such as the kind used on clipboards) secured to each page may make turning each page easier. Separated contact lens cases attached to the pages work well also. Generous amounts of hot glue dots or felt pads (like the ones used on the bottom of chairs) are helpful to help fluff and separate pages for easier turning. •
Puzzles – Starting off with a puzzle
with less complexity may offer a less frustrating option for your child. Use a permanent black marker to outline the placement of each puzzle piece on the board. You can also color each section on the board with a different color and then color the back of the matching puzzle piece with the same color for matching fun!
•
Magnetic grips – If your child is
able to grasp a magnetic wand you can purchase one or make one out of a tube or pvc pipe based on your child’s grip. Add magnetic tape to the wand and to the toys for easier maneuvering. Your child can use the wand to attach and manipulate the toy as well as pick it up to move to another location!
Pull toys – The tiny, thin string attached to pull toys can be frustrating for a child with low grip. Attach a large wooden bead, cut dowel rod or shower ring to the end of the string for easier grasp.
•
• Ride on/push toys – Add a phone book, canned food or water bottles to the toy so it doesn’t tip over while in use. Secure non-slip cabinet or rug liners to the seats of toys so the child doesn’t slip off.
Bubble fun – Purchase a small bubble machine from any local retailer (Target, Wal-Mart…). They are very inexpensive (around $10) and can provide hours of fun. Using a battery interrupter, attach it
•
to the bubble machine so the child can operate the bubbles using the large button switch and watch it go! You can add in a game by trying to pop all of the bubbles yourself “in a hurry” while allowing your child to be in control! Locate resources in your area and talk with other parents to see what adaptations they have made to help their child learn and play. There is a known adapted toy lending library located in Huntsville at United Cerebral Palsy of Huntsville. Soon there will be one in Montgomery at Easter Seals Central Alabama! A wonderful online resource, used for this article, is the Tots-n-Tech website (tnt.asu.edu). Play with your child and think creatively so they can, too! mp Varina Mead, a mother of two, Prattville native and current Director of Marketing for Easter Seals Central Alabama, has enjoyed working in the family service field for over 15 years. Raised by a single mother with Cerebral Palsy, Varina learned from an early age that she wanted to work in disability advocacy and education. Easter Seals Central Alabama is a collection of programs designed to assist children and adults with disabilities, find greater independence, enhanced quality of life, and be seen for their abilities.
s),
e
e
r-
all e rt or he
om
Sunday Morning Worship Services 8:45 & 11 am Chapel Service & Holy Communion Wednesdays | 5:30 pm View live stream of Sunday services at www.fumcmontgomery.org/livestream Dr. R. Lawson Bryan | Senior Minister
2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 334.834.8990 fumcmontgomery.org
Join us in September for our 185th Anniversary celebration! 47
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
lie Ja
Save Money on Your Style:
Shop Vintage Vintage clothing is described as new or second hand garments originating from a different era of time. The phrase is also used in connection with a retail outlet, e.g. “vintage clothing store.” One reason I love vintage is because I can have a very unique yet affordable style. Now I’m not saying everything in your wardrobe needs to come from your favorite flea market/consignment store, but you can enjoy shopping for a few of these pre-loved treasures. Vintage items can cost anywhere from 50 cents to $12. I myself have found a few items to add to my style, and not only does it make it fun to shop, it’s also an amazing complement when you have people noticing what you have on. The best thing is that only you know that your outfit cost much less than what you would pay in a high end store. When you shop vintage here are a few tips to use.
Set a BudgetWhether you’re shopping in a used clothing store or looking online, you should try setting a budget before buying anything. Besides, that’s what the Montgomery Parents I September 2014
point is anyway, saving money and finding a fun new style. The best part about setting a budget is that if you under spend you can save the money for your next shopping trip.
What are you looking forLook through current designer items and find something that you love now. Then you can look for that same designer’s previous seasons for a similar look at a fraction of the current cost. Chances are, they will have made something similar in the past, especially considering that many styles cycle back every three to five years.
Check with friends or familyEnjoy plundering through the closets of friends or family who might have the perfect vintage item for you. If they are still hanging around then its probably a good sign that the clothing/accessories are well taken care of.
Check the quality before buyingEven designer label vintage clothing won’t be valuable if it’s in poor condition. It is important to check for tears, strains and anywhere that the garment has been mended.
Know how to wear current-
in with your current style. This updates your vintage look a bit more.
AlterationsBe sure that the quality of clothing is durable enough to be altered if needed. You want your clothes to fit properly whether they are vintage or not.
Find a buddyThere is nothing wrong with bringing a friend along. It’s always a great idea to get opinions from your BFF’s. And rummaging through all those treasures might end up being a fun day for all involved.
Wash your clothesYes, be sure the clothing you purchase can be washed or dry-cleaned. There is a reason the clothes are called vintage. Just as you can find vintage pieces to compliment the current fashion trends, you can also use vintage to go against them. With vintage you find classics that have never gone out of style, or you can find off the wall pieces to set yourself apart from the mainstream. So enjoy shopping vintage! Have fun with the styles and set yourself apart from everyone else. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to look fabulous. Make your style a story to tell. Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website at www. centsiblysouthern. com.
If you buy items of clothing that are vintage be aware of how to mix them 48
www.montgomeryparents.com
pa sho Air the Ma lip Ca Sa clu tot Ind silv Tea silv
Rifl firs mo Mo Of wa mo at Gu
River Region Rifle Competes at the Alabama State Games
s
g dly
-
or
d
es
o
es
n’t
ll.
From left are Samuel Blackshear, Micah Oliver, Rebecca Phillips, Tara Cross, Callie Littlefield, Tamara Phillips, Coach Ed Boyett, Madison Price, Chanceton Littlefield, Jake Rotten and Sarah Phillips. River Region Rifle 4-H Club, coached by Edward Boyett and Jennifer Creasy, recently participated in the Alabama State Games 2014. Everyone who went had the opportunity to shoot as individuals in three different events: CMP Rimfire Sporter, Three Position Sporter Air Rifle, and Four Position BB Gun. Our Senior Team, the Rifle Rangers, took first place in the CMP Rimfire Sporter Match: Rebecca Phillips, Micah Oliver, Callie Littlefield and Sarah Phillips. Our club brought home a total of the following: Individual medals: 2 silver and 6 bronze; and Team medals: 1 gold, 4 silver. Our River Region Rifle Club meets on the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m., at the Montgomery Extension Office on Atlanta Highway, as well as one or more outdoor practices at the Central Alabama Gun Club.
TH E LEARNING TREE C H I L D D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R S , I N C . Your children deserve the best, why not give it to them.
We pride ourselves at The Learning Tree in having the best child care program for ages 6 wks. to 12 yrs. We are D.H.R. Licensed and provide transportation to and from public school. Full Day Care and Half day (morning or afternoon).
ENROLL NOW, CALL TODAY!
5 Convenient Locations:
d, ay ail
FREE REGISTRATION
om
6wks-12yrs available at all locations but Carmichael Rd.
1816 Glynwood Dr. Prattville - 365-1451 I 288 Deatsville Hwy. Millbrook - 285-1188 1767 Halcyon Blvd. - 272-3188 I 3335 Woodley Rd. - 284-5560 I 4120 Carmichael Rd. - 271-4733
SPECIAL OFFER
rn.
Pink and Pearls for Girls Inc. will host its annual Career and Community Day Saturday, September 27, at the Chisholm Community Center. Pink and Pearls for Girls Inc. is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide educational and family-oriented activities and events for its members and the community. This year’s theme of Career and Community Day is “Runway of Dreams.” Local businesses, organizations and vendors are invited to help celebrate our youth’s dreams and goals by setting up a table with any type of literature, donations, giveaways, or arts and craft/activity. Tables will be provided for set-up. The event will start promptly at 9 a.m. but vendors may come at 8 a.m. to set up. This event will end promptly at 11 a.m. At 10:30 a.m., youth will get a chance to walk the “Runway of Dreams” by modeling career attire of what they would like to be or have a career in. If you are able to participate, please contact Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091. Chisholm Community Center is located at 545 E. Vandiver Blvd. in Montgomery.
N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2014 2011
nt
rn.
Pink & Pearls for Girls Hold Career & Community Day
With this coupon and new enrollment only. Up to $85 Value! 49
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
1.
im lan sa ing ate an no for ma lev op fro als no Be ge mo
2.
yo bo ski list to lat ing the so
Teaching social development for the parent of an autistic child can be quite a stressful and
daunting task. Add in teaching life skills and you have a recipe for burnout. Although these concerns may feel like you are trying to climb an uphill battle, don’t be discouraged. A focused, patient, and consistent approach is key. In this article, we will share helpful tips and advice from some local professionals who work in the field of autism intervention. Let’s discuss social development. Your child may appear to be more withdrawn, try to isolate, or have a difficult time grasping communication concepts such as listening and following directions. Intense one-on-one interaction is best until your child appears more comfortable in gradually increasing groups. Throughout this article, several techniques are provided to help your child reach their full potential. You will hear the phrase “descriptive language”. Descriptive language refers to identifying objects as you see and use them (let’s put the pillow on the bed, the cup goes beside the plate, etc.). Here are some tips to keep in mind when working with your autistic child: Montgomery Parents I September 2014
50
www.montgomeryparents.com
om
1. Wait, observe and listen. It is important to observe your child’s body language and listen to what he or she is saying through his nonverbal cues. By doing this, you will not miss attempts to initiate, such as pointing, eye gazing, gestures and grunts, which all have meaning. Do not anticipate all needs; wait to be asked for things and try as much as possible to make sure you are down on his physical level. Being face-to-face allows you the opportunity to receive communication cues from your child, no matter how small, and also allows him to study and learn your nonverbal cues with limited distractions. Being down on his level and using exaggerated expressions helps you to be the most interesting thing in the room!
2. Reading together. Reading with your child can be one of the best ways to bond, as well as helping him develop the skills necessary for learning language and listening skills. Functional reading will help to set the foundation for independence later in life (cooking, shopping, scheduling daily activities…). Some children on the spectrum have short attention spans, so you may want to select a short book or
plan on reading in segments. Find a quiet comfortable room where you and your child cannot be interrupted and make sure to point out objects as you read and discuss the characters and pictures. You may find that he becomes intensely interested in one topic and wants to read everything he can on that particular subject! No matter what type of child you have, keep the reading a fun time and it can be a special time for you both.
3. Encouraging communicative gestures. Helping your child express thoughts, needs and emotions through gestures can be a wonderful tool (and can usually make for some fun games)! One tip is to secure a favorite toy inside a clear and difficult-to-open container. Hand the sealed container to him and encourage him to open. If he is unable to do so, he will then hand it back to you and gesture for you to open. This is a communicative gesture and is a foundational building block for later communication. Another tip is to place things just out of reach so he has to ask, point or gesture. Eat a favorite food in front of your child without offering any to him and wait for him to communicate
51
that he wants some. Engage your child in constructing a block tower and then knock it down saying “uh oh!” Do this several times and then knock it down without saying anything and wait to see what your child says or does! All of these skills will help to encourage your child to interact with the world around him. Be patient, be consistent, use descriptive language, and keep it positive (though sometimes that can be challenging). Never feel intimidated to seek outside help for yourself or for your child. Another valuable skill to teach that fosters independence is life skills. Life skills are everything from preparing a meal, hygiene and grooming, money management, organization and other skills you would use to help live productively in the world around you. Establishing life skills is one of the foundations for confidence and greater independence. Here we will share some information to incorporate into your everyday routines with your child.
1. Establishing routines. Establishing a routine is beneficial for anybody at any age! Establishing a strong routine can
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
help your child feel more in control of his environment as well as helping to establish the foundations for organization--an important life skill lesson as an adult. Sometimes making a simple picture chart for certain situations (undressing for bath time, getting dressed, etc.) can be a helpful tool to help him understand “what comes next”.
Life skills are everything from learn more about each other and for you to gain support as a caregiver. preparing a meal, hygiene and grooming, money management, 4. Maintaining a bedtime routine. This is a special time to read organization and other skills you stories and spend some quality time would use to help live productive- learning more about him in a calm environment. Try to stick to the same routine ly in the world around you. every night and keep bedtime as conas possible. A well-rested child Establishing life skills is one of sistent who knows what to expect and when to the foundations for confidence expect it, will have a greater opportunity to engage in the world around him! and greater independence.
2. Getting dressed. Sometimes, simply getting your child dressed can be a task worthy of a sigh at least. Making sure you continue to use your descriptive phrases (shirt on, pants up, etc.) will help teach and allow the child to do as much as possible. Laying clothes out on the bed, for example, can be useful in helping your child identify in groups and learn how to follow three-step commands. Lay the clothes on a surface, ask him to get one of the articles and help walk him through the “shirt on” process. The same descriptive language used for getting dressed can be used for undressing (shirt off, pants down, socks off…). Always try to encourage him to remove the clothes himself with as little help from you as possible; again, patience is key here. This may take more time in the beginning,
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
but can help advance independence as time goes on.
3. Making mealtime a teachable moment. For mealtimes, try to stick to the same routine of everybody sitting at the table together for each meal as much as possible. This allows for a comfortable opportunity for social interaction and practice. Have your child help you set the table by putting the napkins on the table or beside the plate. Make sure that as you are serving his plate or when you set it down on the table that you identify the objects on it. Enjoy this time with your child and family. Mealtime can be a great opportunity to
52
With an estimated 50,000 children in Alabama living with autism, new resources are popping up all over the state to help support you and your child. Become knowledgeable and take advantage of the services and support groups that are available to help support you as a caregiver and provide valuable opportunities for development in your child. mp Varina Mead, a mother of two, Prattville native and current Director of Marketing for Easter Seals Central Alabama, has enjoyed working in the family service field for over 15 years. Raised by a single mother with Cerebral Palsy, Varina learned from an early age that she wanted to work in disability advocacy and education. Easter Seals Central Alabama is a collection of programs designed to assist children and adults with disabilities, find greater independence, enhanced quality of life, and be seen for their abilities.
www.montgomeryparents.com
ou
ine
d o ty
te me
nd -
ral e with at caf ith
om
53
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
SCHOOLS/TUTORING Churchill Academy
395 Ray Thorington Rd., (334) 270.4225 Churchill Academy was founded in 1996 to educate the many children in Montgomery and surrounding areas with unique learning differences that range from Attention Deficit Disorder to Learning Disabled to Gifted. We believe strongly that early intervention is essential to maximize the success of every child with special learning needs. Our youngest classroom, classroom A, identifies areas of strength and weakness in our 6 & 7 year olds and provides appropriate remedial instruction. Please visit us at www. Churchillacademymontgomery.com.
4500 Vaughn Road. Success Unlimited Academy is dedicated to teaching all children. In our Special Education Achievement Class, we have provided a special place of learning for those who need more one-on-one instruction and individualized lesson plans. Please visit our website at www.suacademy.com.
Huntington Learning Center
2800 Zelda Rd., (334) 277.9200. Several teachers on staff with Special Education needs. Tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/ SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 adult.
Prattville Area (334)361.3609 Overlook Memorial , 299 Jay Street, handicap accessible, swings. Pratt Park Child Place, 460 Doster Road, handicap accessible, swings. Spinner’s Park, 390 West 6th Street, Metal slides for cochlear implants.
Kumon of MontgomeryCentral
1655 Perry Hill Rd, (334) 279.1400. After school learning program for long term solution. We prepare your child to be a more independent learner in Reading and Math and developing their learning attitude. Kumon is one of the world’s largest afterschool programs. Please call or visit us at www.kumon.com/montgomery-central.
Kumon Reading and Math Center 8125 Vaughn Rd, (334) 649.1178. Afterschool academic enrichment program that helps children achieve success. The Kumon Math program develops necessary skills to help children progress from counting through calculus. The Kumon Reading program begins with basic phonics and progresses all the way through advanced reading comprehension. Please call us or visit our website at www. kumon.com.
Mathnasium
3457 Taylor Road, (334) 356.1570. We specialize in teaching kids math the way that makes sense to them. We provide: Expert tutors, Custom learning plans and personalized instruction, and Homework help. Please call Monica Virgil at (334) 356.1570 or visit us at www.mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery.
Success Unlimited
2328 Fairlane Campus, (334) 213.0803 and Montgomery Parents I September 2014
The play area does have handicap accessible swings. Thompson Park, 1655 Ray Thorington Road – “No Limits” Miracle Field Playground and Miracle League Ball Field. Therapeutic Recreation Center, 604 August St., 240.4595 (Frederick Thomas) one of Montgomery’s proudest accomplishments, makes recreation accessible to our city’s special population. The center offers a 26,000 square foot facility that is barrier free, and features a large gymnasium, indoor/ outdoor swimming pools, weight room, game rooms, meeting rooms, locker rooms and a kitchen. Spring Prom and Special Olympic competitions are held here. Please visit Parks and Recreation at www. montgomeryal.gov for more information.
RECREATION & ENRICHMENT Sylvan Learning Center
2640 Zelda Rd., (334) 262.0043 Study skills, (courses for credit) writing/grammar, reading, math and SAT/ACT college preparation. Also individualized tutoring. Diagnostic evaluation. Students improve skills, becoming more motivated and gaining in self-confidence. Certified teachers.
PARKS & RECREATION Montgomery Area Vaughn Road Park, 3620 Vaughn Road – Boundless Playground Ida Belle Young Park, 5400 Vaughn Road – Sight Impaired Playground Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Alabama 36110, (334) 240.4900 Montgomery Zoo is open year round with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Years Day. The zoo opens at 9:00 am and closes at 5:00 pm. The Montgomery Zoo is handicap accessible. Wheelchairs are available for rental at the Zoofari Gift Shop. 54
Abrakadoodle Susan Parker, (334) 265.5758 Offer several enrichment programs in Montgomery’s public and private school settings as well as daycares. We offer autism and special needs classes, which are not limited by age. Please visit us at www.abrakadoodle. com/al01 or email sparker@abrakadoodle.com. Access To Recreation Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. 8 Sandra Ct., Newbury Park, CA. (800) 634.4351. www.accesstr.com. Alabama Angels Pageant Renee Lantz (334) 300.9238. The Alabama Angels Pageant is a pageant specifically for individuals with special needs, both male and female of any age. Please check back with our website for the 2015 date to be announced. Anyone with a medically diagnosed physical or intellectual impairment is invited to participate. Registration is free. Participants will receive free hair and makeup and then enjoy a short rider in a limo before being dropped off at the red carpet premier. There are only 100 spots available. Registration can be done online at www.angelwww.montgomeryparents.com
spa don ties Tan
Arm (33 off the info
Bo 306 vid and
Dr (33 Ad chi dis nity dis ten life beh spo tem Un p.m Ten vis us
e
St.,
p-
or/ ht
a d e. nd w. v a-
a
rial ,
-
spageantsystem.com . For more information on donations, registration, or volunteer opportunities contact Renee Lantz at (334) 300.9238 or Tanya Murphy at (334) 799.7119. Armory Athletics Center (334) 241.2789, 1018 Madison Avenue. Classes offered and combined. Case to case basis upon the need of extra coaches. Please call for more information. Boy Scouts of America 3067 Carter Hill Rd., (334) 262.2697. We provide an educational and social program for boys and young adults. Dream Court, Inc. (334) 414-1980. Sharing hope, changing lives. Adaptive tennis program in Montgomery, AL for children and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities. Dream Court provides an opportunity for individuals with intellectual and/ physical disabilities a chance to play the lifetime sport of tennis. Dream Court focuses on inclusion, active lifestyle, positive self esteem, appropriate social behavior, and having fun while learning the sport of tennis. Our dates for Fall 2014 are September 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 at Alabama State University Tennis Center from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. and October 7, 14, 21, and 28 at O’Connor Tennis Center from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. Please visit our website at www.dreamcourt.org or find us on Facebook: Dream Court
Family Karate Center
Carole Coker, (334) 277.4911; 8159 Vaughn Road. Next door to Jalapenos, Peppertree Shopping Center. Only karate center that specializes in teaching special needs students- autistic, Asperger’s Syndrome, Attention Deficit Disorder, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Hearing and Visually impaired, all wheel chairs welcome. Call today for registration and information. We are the only Montgomery school with a Master degree Instructor who specializes in special need children. There is no extra cost for the special needs child. A FREE gift for all new enrollments. Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (334) 272.9164, 145 Coliseum Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36109 Helps girls self value, social and volunteering skills through troop service. M.A.N.E. 3699 Wallahatchie Rd., Pike Rd., (334) 213.0909; The Montgomery Area Non-traditional Equestrians is dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with a wide range of disabilities through safe and effective therapeutic riding, hippotherapy, and equine-assisted learning activities. Please visit our website at http:// maneweb.org.
Melodic Vibes
8448 Crossland Loop, Suite 103 and 105. Kim Vaughn, (334) 220.0468
MELODICViBES, LLC is designed to provide opportunities for students to learn, create, and demonstrate their talents. We encourage an atmosphere that inspires creativity, promotes focus, and fuels dreams. We strengthen development and growth of the whole person, while gaining a genuine appreciation of the arts. Classes offered for special needs and children with disabilities. Please visit our website at www.melodic-vibes.com or visit us on Facebook at MelodicVibes, LLC. Montgomery Miracle League The Miracle League provides an opportunity for children and adults with physical and/or cognitive disabilities a chance to play baseball. Please visit us on Facebook under Montgomery Miracle League. Special Olympics Alabama 880 South Court Street, Montgomery, AL (334) 242.3383. Offers year-round sports training and athletic competitions in 18 individual and team Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Please visit us at http:// specialolympicsalabama.com/. Storybook Farms 300 Cusseta Road - Opelika, AL 36801 (334) 444.5966. www.hopeonhorseback.org ; The year-round equine assisted activities are tailored to serve children ages 2 years to young adults who are challenged with life-threatening
ool
ed
m.
for y
r
r e. ee in e. -
om
55
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
illnesses, disabilities, mental and/or emotional trauma, and grief. The gentle nature of our horses provides hope and healing. In addition to our “hope on horseback” riding programs, Storybook Farm also provides weekly Enrichment Classes for local school system’s inclusive special education classes, “Forever Families” quarterly events for families created by adoption or fostering, as well as annual events such as Easter Eggstravaganza, SBF Horse Show, Fall Festival, and the Christmas Celebration. Therapeutic Recreation Center 604 August St., (334) 240.4575 One of Montgomery’s proudest accomplishments, makes recreation accessible to our city’s special population. The center offers a 26,000 square foot facility that is barrier free, and features a large gymnasium, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, weight room, game rooms, meeting rooms, locker rooms and a kitchen. Spring Prom and Special Olympic competitions are held here.
RECREATIONAL CAMPS Camp Smile-a-Mile Alabama’s Program for Children with Cancer 1(888) 500.7920; Camp Smile-A-Mile’s mission is to provide year round challenging, unforgettable recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients, their families as well as young adult survivors from Alabama at not cost
to the families. The purpose is to provide these patients, families and survivors with avenues for fellowship, to help them cope with their disease and to prepare them for life after cancer. Camp Smile-A-Mile, located in downtown Birmingham by Children’s of Alabama, has year round programming including seven annual sessions at Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin. The use of this facility is donated. 1 (334) 500.7920. Please visit us at www.campsam.org. Camp Sugar Falls & Camp Seale Harris (205) 402.0415; www.southeasterndiabetes.org. provides our kids with the chance to learn about effective diabetes management, while at the same time allowing them to interact with other children living with this same illness.
Easter Seals Camp ASSCA
(256) 825.9226; www.campascca.org. Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and mental disabilities. Providing weekend and week long sessions- open year-round. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more.
Lakeshore Foundation (205) 313.7400; www.lakeshore.org; Offers a wide range of fitness, recreation, athletic and education programs to children and adults who experience diagnostic conditions including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, amputation, and visual impairment.
SUPPORT & EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities RSA Union Building 100 North Union Street Post Office Box 301410 Montgomery, Alabama 36130-1410 Phone: (334) 242.3973, TollFree: (800) 232.2158, FAX: (334) 242.0797 Email:addpc@mh.state.al.us. Auditory Visual Enhancement of Alabama Call Lorrie P. Piazza at (334) 277.7046. Dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults so that life goals may be more realized. Provides AIT (Auditory Integration Training). Dianne Craft – Child Diagnostics (303) 697.7511 Wonderful website filled with information, articles, resources for learning disabilities, dyslexia, auditory processing, right/left brain learning. Nutritional therapy and supplement recommendations. You can purchase Dianne’s DVDs, CDs, Books, vitamins, and other
var Ple
Ea
212 361 Co gra rec Ala tion pat Job Ca
K596 395 K-9 niz We by ser wit fam at
Th (88 am bra sch tor tor em inc &l ski and pro and dys us info
Ma Bir cho Al.
Th Atl sou tion wit Th Re Ken Ca
N
He 277 nut wit oth ety for Ple Montgomery Parents I September 2014
56
www.montgomeryparents.com
o nal ,
S
a
a ats des
seft
er
om
various products through her online store. Please visit http://www.diannecraft.org.
Easter Seals Alabama
2125 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36116; (334) 288.0240 Consists of eight community rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier free recreational camp Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. K-9’s for Kids 5960 East Shirley Lane, Montgomery, AL; (334) 395.4489 K-9s 4 Kids is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in the State of Alabama. We are a part of the Canine Programs offered by the Easter Seals of Alabama network of services. These services exist to help children with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives. Please visit our website at www.ServiceDogsAlabama.com. The Listening Program (888) 228.1798 The Listening Program (TLP) is a music listening therapy that provides engaging brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. It gently trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. Auditory processing problems can lead to academic, emotional, cognitive and social challenges, including problems with ADD, Listening, Speech & language, memory, communication, Social skills, reading, Sensory Integration, Balance and coordination and self regulation. Auditory processing problems are often found in children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, dyslexia and learning disabilities. Please visit us at www.thelisteningprogram.com for more information. March of Dimes Alabama Chapter Birmingham, Al. (205) 824.0103; www.marchofdimes.com; Central Division in Montgomery, Al. (334) 277.6910 The Southeast ADA Center Atlanta, GA. (800) 949.4232; www.ada. southeast.org; The Center provides information, training, and guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and disability access. The Center serves eight states in the Southeast Region including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
NUTRITION Health Wise 277.9925, 5147 Atlanta Highway. Provides nutritional supplements for children and adults with ciliac disease, autism, ADD/ADHD and other learning disabilities. We offer a wide variety organic, egg free, gluten free food products for individuals with celiac disease and autism. Please visit us at www.healthwisefoods.com. 57
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Herb Shop, The 271.2882 8151 Vaughn Rd. We have a whole section dedicated to special needs and learning disabilities. Please visit our store for individual supplement recommendations. Lee Silsby, Compound Pharmacy (800) 918.8831, Compounding Pharmacy focusing on children with Autism. Please visit www. leesilsby.com. Our Kids (877) 533.7457, 3216 Silsby Rd. Cleveland Hts., OH 44118 Our Kids was founded as the result of the joy Lee Silsby Compounding Pharmacy experiences in working with Autistic children. Our Kids focuses 100% of their product line exclusively on supplements for Autistic children and designing innovative, high quality products. Please visit us at www.ourkidsasd.com.
SPEECH THERAPY AUM Speech and Hearing Clinic 7177 Halcyon Summit Drive, 244.3408 AUMSHC is a full-service speech and hearing clinic. We have been in operation since 1975. We offer speech and hearing diagnostic testing and rehabilitative therapy, as well as hearing aid services. We are a non-profit research/teaching organization, associated with the university. We train students in communication disorders and supervise doctoral level students from main
campus that do clinical rotations here with us in their second year. We proudly serve the AUM family and surrounding River Region communities. Our patients are all ages from birth and up. Please visit us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/aumshc Comprehensive Therapy Center Baptist Speech and Hearing Clinic (334) 358.6501. Baptist East Hospital, 400 Taylor Road. Provide speech, hearing, OT and physical therapy department and swallow and feeding therapy. We see patients from birth to geriatric. Only facility offering families and the communities of central Alabama comprehensive rehabilitation services. Individualized treatment is provided by experienced and licensed occupational, physical and speech therapists.
Easter Seals of Central Alabama
(334) 288.0240; 2125 E South Blvd., Montgomery Our goal is to provide quality life enhancing programs and services to meet the individual needs of our consumers. ESCA offers the following programs; Janice Capilouto Center for the Deaf, Speech Therapy, Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Clinic, Vocational Evaluation, PACE Program, Job Placement, CAN Certification, Learning Disabilities Evaluation, and CARE. Please call or visit us at www.eastersealsca.org. Prattville Baptist Speech and Hearing (334) 358.6501. 635 McQueen Smith Road, Suite D. Center for Advanced Therapy. Provide
speech, hearing, OT and physical therapy department. Speech and Hearing, Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama (256) 325.8885; Info@AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org The Alabama Public school systems offer speech-language evaluations and therapy (if eligible) for children 3 and up. This is available to children, by law, regardless of if they go to private, public or are homeschooled.
EARLY INTERVENTION Alabama Institute for the Deaf & Blind (256) 761.3200, 205 South Street, Talladega, AL. AIDB is the most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service system serving children and adults who are deaf, blind and multi-disabled. Children ages 3 to 21 are served through the Alabama School for the Deaf, the Alabama School for the Blind and the Helen Keller School of Alabama. Please call or visit our website at www.aidb.org. Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind 334-262-0824 Serving Lee County and the surrounding area. Missy Byrd.Missy@aidb.state.al.us or serving the Opelika area Robin Blake at Blake. Robin@aidb.state.al.us serving the Auburn area Alabama School for the Blind- 705 South Street East, Talladega, Al. (256) 761.3259
Ala Eas He Las or sch
Ch (80 in A be Ala
Th 310 Mo Off han chi
Ea
(33 gom enh ind fer Ce Sp Eva CA tio eas
Th (33 Pla pro par ner
PP (33 Mo
Un Ho lan Ear
Join us for a celebration of God’s goodness through praise and worship,
M PU
followed by a life-applicable Biblebased teaching by senior pastor John Schmidt via video. Come casual and
AD (88 ind
enjoy our service that starts at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday at the Jim Wilson YMCA
Att Bisup 233
at New Park. Nursery and children’s program provided.
Ex 1(8 pro me chi wh exc
For more information contact our office at (334) 356-3076 or visit our website at centeringlives.com
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
58
www.montgomeryparents.com
g
n ess
ed
our
us e. a et
om
Alabama School for the Deaf- 205 South Street East, Talladega, Al. (256) 761.3212 Helen Keller School of Alabama- 1101 Fort Lashley Avenue, Talladega, Al. (256) 761.3377 or please visit us at www.aidb.org/helen-kellerschool-of-alabama Child Find (800) 543.3098 Child Find is the process used in Alabama for identifying all children who may be eligible for services and referring them to Alabama’s Early Intervention System. The Children’s Center of Montgomery 310 North Madison Terrace, (334) 262.4850, Montgomery Public School for Special Needs. Offer services for cognitive delayed or multihandicapped. Please call or visit us at www. children.mps-al.org/.
Easter Seals of Central Alabama
(334) 288.0240; 2125 East South Blvd, Montgomery Our goal is to provide quality life enhancing programs and services to meet the individual needs of our consumers. ESCA offers the following programs: Janice Capilouto Center for the Deaf, Speech Therapy, Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Clinic, Vocational Evaluation, PACE Program, Job Placement, CAN Certification, Learning Disabilities Evaluation, and CARE. Please call or visit us at www. easterseals.com.
SHE HOLDS THE HOUSE RECORD FOR “MOST STATE CAPITALS RECALLED IN FIVE MINUTES” AND “BIGGEST HOLE DUG IN THE BACKYARD FOR NO APPARENT REASON.”
The PLAY Project Wiggles & Giggles (334) 264.8887, 1031 Oak Street, Montgomery. Play and Language for Autistic Youngster. Our program emphasizes the importance of helping parents become their child’s best P.L.A.Y. partner. Please visit us at www.playproject.org PPEI Early Intervention (334) 832.1080, 310 North Madison Terrace, Montgomery. Early Intervention United Cerebral of Central Alabama Horizon EI Program, (334) 271.2280, 2520 Fairlane Dr., Suite 360, Montgomery, AL, Early Intervention
MAGAZINES & PUBLICATIONS ADDitude Magazine (888) 762.8475 Bi-monthly lifestyle magazine for individuals with ADD/ADHD. additudemag.com. Attention Bi-monthly magazine with information and support for people affected by ADHD, (800) 233.4050. www.chadd.org.
and at Children’s of Alabama we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.
C H I L D R E N A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY
September is Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders Month. For information and ways you can help, visit ChildrensAL.org/CommittedToACure. 1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org
We’re committed to a cure and you can be too.
Exceptional Parent Magazine 1(877) 372.7368 Monthly publication that provides information, support, ideas, encouragement and outreach for parents and families of children with disabilities and the professionals who work with them. Please visit us at www. exceptionalparent.com. 59
MontgmryParents_COA_CancerHeadlineAd.indd 1
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents 8/19/14 2:54 PM
ALABAMA RESOURCES
(334) 262.7688. Advocates for people with disabilities. Visit us at www.thearcofalabama.com
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (334) 293.7500 or (800) 441.7607 (Montgomery office); (800) 205.9986 (Alabama’s Toll Free Hotline for ADA Information); www.rehab.state.al.us/ada
Blind or Visually Impaired, Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind www.AIDB.org Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind- Mobile, AL; (251) 432.7777
Alabama Alliance for the Mentally Ill 396.4797, 1401 I-85 Parkway Suite A, Montgomery. www.namialabama.org Alabama’s Early Intervention System and Department of Rehabilitation Services Birth-3 years. (334) 293.7500. Programs for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities, 602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery. Please visit us at www.rehab.alabama.gov
Career & Technical Education Alabama State Department of Education- Montgomery, AL; (334) 242.9111; www.alsde.edu/ Client Assistance Program Department of Rehabilitation Services, Montgomery (800) 228.3231 Developmental Disabilities Alabama Dept of Mental Health-Montgomery, Al. (334) 242.3454; www.mh.alabama.gov/
Alabama PTA 470 S. Union St. Montgomery (334) 834.2501 or visit www.alabamapta.org
Developmental Disabilities Council Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities -Montgomery, AL (800) 232.2158; http://acdd.org
American Foundation for the Blind 100 Peachtree Street, Suite 620, Atlanta, Ga. 1(404) 525.2303
Governor’s Office on Disabilities Montgomery, AL. (888) 879.3582 Provide information on Disabilities.
American Speech-Language-Hearing Assoc. (800) 638.8255. Committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. http://www.asha.org/public/
Medicaid Waivers These waivers help those families who make too much money for Medicaid but “fall through the cracks” of their insurance. Alabama Department of Public Services, (334) 293-7160, Ask for sail waiver program. State of Alabama of Independent living waiver – (800) 441.7607
Arc of Alabama 557 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery
Mental Health Rep. for Children/Youth Office of Children’s Services/ Alabama Department of Mental Health-Montgomery, AL. (334) 242.3454; www.mh.alabama.gov Montgomery Scottish Rite Learning Center (334) 277.8109, 565 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery. Testing for children up to 9th grade with dyslexia. Programs for Children with Disabilities Ages 3-5, P.O. Box 302101, Montgomery, (334) 242.8114 or (800) 392.8020 Protection and Advocacy Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP)The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL. (800) 826.1675; www.adap.net Respite Care Temporary short-term relief for caregivers of individuals with special needs such as: developmental and physical disabilities or other chronic illnesses that are related to health concerns, medical fragility, or for those at risk of abuse and neglect. Please visit us at http://alabamarespite.org. Birmingham, Al.; 1(866).RESTALA ; alabamarespite@aol.com Southeast ADA Center 1419 Mayson Street, Atlanta, GA 30324; (800) 949.4232; www.facebook.com/southeastadacenter or www.adasoutheast.org Special Education Services Alabama Department of Education- Montgomery, Al. (800) 392.8020; www.alsde.edu/
AUBURN MONTGOMERY
Homeschool Enrichment AUM homeschool enrichment classes are specially designed for homeschool students to enhance learning for ages 6-15. This program offers classes that are not easily available at home due to space, expense or lack of expertise.
Classes start Sept. 16!
Fall classes include: Mosaics Video Game Creation Slimy Science Lab and more! For a complete class schedule visit us online at www.ce.aum.edu or call 334-244-3804.
60
Sp Ala vic go ala
Sta Sp P.O or
Sta (33 Mo ala
Te (St Ala (80
Un De Civ of 352
D R
AD
Ch De (80 and dit pu me adv ind cha
Fe (80 erh tion res die hav Ww
Le (41 par leg Ww
Facebook: AUMConEdYP | YouTube: Search AUMYouthPrograms Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Sp Ala Phy Mo ww
www.montgomeryparents.com
Au
Ala In We cha vis
er
4)
)-
pic
A;
st-
om
Special Format Library Alabama Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. 6030 Monticello Drive , Montgomery, AL 36130-6000; (800) 392.5671; www.afb.org Special Health Care Needs Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services/ Children’s Rehabilitation Service- Montgomery, AL; (800) 441.7607; www.rehab. alabama.gov/crs State Department of Education: Special Education P.O. Box 302101, Montgomery, (334) 242.8114 or (800) 392.8020. State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (334) 293.7500. 602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery. Please visit us at www.rehab. alabama.gov Technology- STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response for Alabamians with Disabilities)-Montgomery, AL; (800) 782.7656 ; www.rehab.alabama.gov/star University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Civitan International Research Center-University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham, AL 35294-0021; (800) 822.2472; www.circ.uab.edu
DISABILITY-SPECIFIC RESOURCES ADD/ADHD
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (C.H.A.D.D) (800) 233.4050; Provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with AD/HD. In addition to our informative Web site, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting individuals with AD/HD. Please visit us at www. chadd.org. Feingold Association of the United States (800) 321.3287, 554 E. Main St., Ste. 301, Riverhead, NY. (800) 321.3287 Provides informational materials, online/telephone support, and resources. Helps families introduce low-additive dietary programs for children with learning/behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. Www.feingold.org. Learning Disabilities Assoc. of America (412) 341.1515 Offers support programs for parents, an information and referral network, legislation and school program development. Www.ldaamerica.org.
Autism
Alabama Autism & Asperger’s Statewide Info & Support Network Website offers videos, articles, forums, groups, chats, bulletin board, links and resources. Please visit www.alabamaautism.org. 61
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Autism Society of America (800) 328.8476 Provides services in the areas of advocacy, education, awareness and research. 7910 Woodmont Ave., Ste. 310, Bethesda, MD. www.autism-society.org.
Autism Society of Alabama
(877) 4.Autism Provide a resource list of services that have been recommended by families and professionals, support groups, lending library, newsletter and Education & Awareness. Please visit our website at www.autism-alabama.org. Autism Alabama (334) 242.8114, is an initiative of Special Education Services, Alabama Department of Education, to provide on-line training resources for parents and educational professionals on autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). www. alex.state.al.us/autismAL.
Easter Seals of Central Alabama
(334) 288.0240; 2125 E South Blvd., Montgomery Our goal is to provide quality life enhancing programs and services to meet the individual needs of our consumers. ESCA offers the following programs; Janice Capilouto Center for the Deaf, Speech Therapy, Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Clinic, Vocational Evaluation, PACE Program, Job Placement, CAN Certification, Learning Disabilities Evaluation, and CARE. Please call or visit us at www.eastersealsca.org. TACA (Talk About Curing Autism) (949) 640.4401, TACA is a not-for-profit foundation of families helping families affected by autism. TACA Alabama Chapter meets in Birmingham/Huntsville/Tuscaloosa area. TACA aims to speed up the cycle from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments. TACA holds monthly meetings throughout the United States that feature educational speakers on important topics and allow family members to connect with one another and stay on top of the latest news in the autism world. Members can check out books on Autism and DVDs/CDs. Please visit us at www. tacanow.org (Alabama Chapter).
Cerebral Palsy
4 My Child 1(800) 692.4453. Provides provide all families of children of special needs with Help and Hope For Life. Please visit us at http://www.cerebralpalsy.org. United Cerebral Palsy 2520 Fairlane Dr Suite 360, (334) 271.2280 Leading service provider and advocate for adults and children with disabilities, including cerebral palsy. Please visit us at www.ucpmobile.org.
Dyslexia
Alabama Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (855) 247.1381, 280 Marwood Drive , Birmingham, AL 35244. We are here to help improve the lives of individuals with dyslexia through education, legislation and services. For more information or to contact us please email info@ Montgomery Parents I September 2014
62
www.montgomeryparents.com
ida con
Int (80 an and par
Le Ala (33 tion ing sio
Do
Do Bir Syn and Off ww
F.R (Fa Ne tion an us abo
Mo Ou Pro soc ow
Ep
Ep (80 sup fam edu epi epi tio
M
Mu Pro ref an Sou (20
Sp
Sp Str Bifi soc Vis con SB Oc and by link
of
. D.
icnd
idaalabama.org or visit www.idaalabama.org/ contact.htm. International Dyslexia Association (800) 222.3123 Offers information on products, an online store, conferences, support groups and more for children, teens, college students, parents and educators. www.interdys.org.
ca-
Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama (Montgomery) (334) 277.9151; Non-profit grassroots organization whose members are individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and the professionals who work with them.
sm
Down Syndrome
e
ry
on,
E. g.
dago to ete
e on w.
pe l-
ults al
-
@
om
Down Syndrome Alabama Birmingham (PADS) Parent Advocates Down Syndrome (205) 988.0810 Promote awareness and acceptance, and advocacy for individuals. Offers education and support for individuals. www.downsyndromealabama.org. F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families Reaching, Influencing, Educating, and Networking for Down Syndrome), local organization for families, friends and advocates who love an individual with Down Syndrome. Please visit us at http://www.downsyndromefriends.org/ aboutus.html. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach Group (Prattville) Provides family support, education, links and social opportunities. www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama (800) 626.1582 Mission is to educate and support individuals with epilepsy and their families. Provide services and programs; educating and increasing awareness about epilepsy; providing leadership in advocacy for epilepsy issues. http://www.epilepsyfoundationalabama.org.
Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular Dystrophy Association Provides informational materials, networking, referrals to local resources, summer camps and an equipment loan program. 700 Century Park South #225, Birmingham, Alabama. Please call (205) 823.8191 or visit us at www.mdausa.org.
Spina Bifida
Spina Bifida Association of Alabama Strives to provide families affected by Spina Bifida with the most up-to-date medical and social information related to this birth defect. Visit their website at www.sbaofal.org for contact information. The 2014 Walk-N-Roll for SBA of AL at the Montgomery Zoo will be held October 4, 2014 - Registration begins at 9am and the Walk-N-Roll begins at 10am! Register by calling (334) 221.1707 or clicking on the link on our website. mp 63
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
A Page in a Book The Journey: There and Back Again Every day is a journey for children. The travel to and from school, questing around the neighborhood, and journeys of the spirit and imagination are all opportunities for children to pursue adventure beyond the normal confines of home and hearth. And for most journeys, the final leg brings a traveler full circle; back to where they started. We return from our travels with a fuller appreciation for home, friends, family and all the things that we carry in our heart when we’re away. The following titles all embody the spirit of adventurous journeys, while carrying along the fondness for home that’s never far away.
Journey
by Aaron Becker (Candlewick) Faced with a distracted family and a yearning for adventure, a young girl picks up a red crayon and draws a door into another world. As she travels through the neutral and pastel colors of the alternate landscape, her vibrant red crayon creates the things she needs to venture forth. She draws a red boat that takes her to a kingdom of kind people who welcome her exploration of their world. She then draws a red balloon that wafts her among a not-so-kind army of the air. When she’s captured by the airmen, her red crayon is lost …along with her means to return home. But a flash of rich purple emerges and may solve her problems both at home and abroad. A brilliantly executed work of art and storytelling, “Journey” is a steampunk-styled flight of wordless fancy that children will revisit again and again.
Following Papa’s Song
by Gianna Marino (Viking/Penguin) In the seemingly endless ocean, Little Blue, a young blue whale, is preparing with his family for his first migration. But he’s worried about being separated from his father on the journey. Traveling thousands of miles through the deep sea, a blue whale’s home is vast and moveable. Home is where his family is. His father assures him that if he will listen, Little Blue can hear Papa’s whale song and find him should he become lost. When Little Blue is distracted on the journey and becomes lost in the deep, he will need all his listening skill to hear the song of home. Lush edge-to-edge illustrations submerge the reader in all the hues of the deep oceans as they plumb the depths with father and son. ‘Following Papa’s Song’ is a moving and beautiful reminder of the call of home that resonates through every journey.
Three Bears in a Boat
by David Soman (Dial/Penguin) When three bears (playing where they shouldn’t) break their mother’s favorite blue seashell, they immediately run to the beach to hide. And as they huddle in the shadow of their boat, the brothers decide to undertake a quest; to sail away to find a blue shell. They query other seafaring bears for clues as their journey carries them far afield, but their search yields no blue shell. As their odyssey lengthens, their tempers grow shorter and home seems farther away than ever. It takes the stirring of a great storm to reveal the welcome calms and turn their voyage homeward. Complete with a cheeky nod to ‘Moby Dick’, this title is a reassuring testament to treasures and safe welcome found at home.
Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
64
www.montgomeryparents.com
k
nd
. he e er
s
f en a y at
ng
om
65
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Pink and Pearl Girls Host Social Event
Pink and Pearls for Girls hosted a recent volunteers mix and mingle. Teens had a chance to play icebreaker games and work together on team building skills. The girls also shared ideas of educational activities and community service projects. For additional information on how to become a member, please call Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091.
New Junior League President Engages Children in Volunteerism
The Junior League of Montgomery’s new president, Ashley Killian White, has begun her 2014-15 year of service. White, who has been a member since 2002, most recently served as the Community Council vice president and Operations vice president, before she was voted president-elect. Part of her plan is to involve children with the League’s mission and commitment to volunteerism in the community. “I am most excited this year about implementing the first annual ‘Little Leaguers’ program,” White said. She’ll be inviting League members to bring their children to volunteer alongside them. “It is my belief that exposing children to volunteer opportunities at an early age encourages them to be more engaged in their respective communities as adults.” White is tasked with leading the organization through a revisit of the League’s strategic plan. Members will lay out a new roadmap for the next three years, ensuring viability and growth in years to come. She is married to Nowell White and has two children, Killian, age 8, and Cooper, age 4. She is a senior staff attorney at the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals. The League will kick off a busy fall calendar of fundraisers and community events with College and Career Night on Monday, September 15, followed by Taste of the River Region on Sunday, September 28. The League’s biggest fundraiser, the 26th annual Holiday Market, is set for October 16-18.
Jackson Clinic Opens Friday Night Sports Clinic
Local Student Earns National Volunteer Award
Laura Grace Henry, a sixth-grade honor student at Prattville Christian Academy, was recently recognized with a national award for her community volunteerism. She was notified in late July that she is one of eight young people from across the United States recognized of her extraordinary achievements in community service by Hasbro, Inc. in partnership with generationOn. The Hasbro Community Action Hero Awards are an integral part of Hasbro’s ongoing partnership with generationOn. This critical support helps generationOn provide kids of all ages with the tools and hands-on opportunities to understand the issues in their communities - and to become part of the solution. Henry was also recently named a regional winner of a $1,000 scholarship in the Kohl’s Cares Scholarship program, sponsored by Kohl’s Department Stores. Along with her scholarship money, Henry and other scholarship recipients will be featured on posters in Kohl’s department stores this year. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Beginning August 22, The Jackson Clinic is open on Friday nights during football season to assist with sports-related injuries. Jackson Hospital Sports Medicine, Alabama Orthopaedic Specialists and Rehab Associates have specialists available to examine and treat athletes at Friday night sports clinic. “When an athlete is injured during a game, he doesn’t need to wait to get help,” said Jackson Hospital Director of Sports Medicine Charles Lee. “We need to get these players treated quickly so they can start healing and get back in the game faster. This is just one part of our commitment to keeping athletes in the River Region healthy.” The Friday night clinic will be open from 6-11 p.m. every Friday night during football season. It is located at 1801 Pine Street in The Jackson Clinic Family Medicine Center on Jackson Hospital’s campus.
First River Region Gross Out Camp Successful
Recently the Alabama Wildlife Center in Millbrook hosted an award-winning Gross Out summer camp. Campers learned about snakes, salamanders, worms and roly polies. Gross Out Camp brings kids out into their native habitat, woods and creek beds, to discover nature through hands-on biology. Students spent hours exploring the Alabama Wildlife Center looking for frogs and tadpoles, turtles and stinky plants. Science experiments included dissolving cereal to find iron and making mold. At the end of the day, journals were filled with pictures and stories. “Biology is disgusting, and kids love it,” said Verna Gates, executive director, Fresh Air Family, Inc. “Kids have gotten more sophisticated with technology, but we can assure you, they still love to plop down in a creek, hunt for worms and build forts, just as kids have through the ages.” Other sessions have been held at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and at the Greystone YMCA in Birmingham and The Villages at Cook Springs in Pell City. The camp combines science experiments, exploring, journaling, and nature-inspired arts and crafts to address a variety of learning styles. Activities include Meeta-Tree (scientific observation), Create-a Creature (scientific description), and making slime (chemistry, plus it’s fun -and gross). The River Region camp was sponsored by Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C. From left are Helen Taylor, Beasley Allen Law Firm; and Verna Gates, Founder and Executive Director, Fresh Air Family Inc. with the Gross Out campers. 66
www.montgomeryparents.com
c
8, . h
y
c
a
aid s ne
all n
l
s. o a
re
at d . ts, ed
s
d-
om
67
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
4.
Te “I sh cre ac to to en in to co
5.
de of br ov Ba wi tak be mo
6.
yo se
1. Know Yourself. Overestimating your abilities will
In my adult life, nothing has sapped my self-confidence like motherhood. Just when I think I’ve got it figured out, the kids grow and change in a new direction. And watching other moms only makes matters worse. I spend my days sucking up cereal with a hand-held vacuum while Supermom posts to-diefor pictures on Pinterest. Of course, it is perfectly normal to feel insecure at times. But self-doubt can create a vicious, downward spiral. To lift yourself up, you’ve got to tap in to your inner core of confidence. Here’s
cause you to crash and burn like an American-Idol wannabe, says Lynn Kennedy Baxter, B.S.N., M.A., a licensed marriage and family therapist in Colorado Springs, Colo. And underestimating your abilities may cause you to pass up chances to stretch your skills. “Get reality checks from people you trust to give you good, honest feedback,” says Baxter. You may be holding yourself back.
2. Get Passionate. Fuel your confidence by investing in your own interests. Take dance classes, start a blog, or finish your college degree. “When we’re passionate about something – about anything – we become more attractive to others, and more importantly, we become more attractive to ourselves,” says certified life coach and inspirista Jennifer Tuma-Young of Edison, NJ. Do what lights your fire. 3. Stop Comparing. “If you feel like your life is a seesaw, perhaps you’re depending on other people for your ups and downs,” says communication consultant Sam Horn, author of What’s Holding You Back? 30 Days to Having the Courage and Confidence to Do What You Want, Meet Whom You Want, and Go Where You Want. Comparing yourself to others generates feelings of inferiority or superiority, neither of which is helpful. Be accountable to your own wishes and values.
how. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
68
www.montgomeryparents.com
4. Banish Limiting Language. Telling yourself “I can’t,” “I’ll never,” or “I always,” reinforces your flaws and shortcomings, says Baxter, and can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. “Either accept your inadequacies, or choose to develop the trait or skill you’d like to have.” Ask yourself, “What words of encouragement would I offer a friend in the same situation?” then say them to yourself. Optimistic self-talk inspires confidence.
5. Rest Up. “Research clearly demonstrates that even a few days of too-little sleep causes a part of the brain called the amygdala to go into overdrive with fear and anxiety,” says Baxter. Instead of responding to stress with worry and panicked preparation, take a warm bath then get to bed. You’ll be ready to move mountains in the morning. 6. Affirm Your Attributes. List your top ten qualities. “They can be serious – like ‘I’m a great listener’ – or
silly, like ‘I always call people back,’ ‘I read with my kids every night,’ or ‘My cookies sell out first at the bake sale,” says Tuma-Young. Celebrating your own unique, special skills makes you feel fabulous.
7. Coach Yourself. There will be times when you don’t live up to your own expectations, like when you scream at your 4-year-old for washing the dog with pricey salon shampoo. “The key to a more productive approach lies in these two little words: next time,” says Horn. Focusing on how you’ll act differently in the future frees you from shame and self-blame.
8. Speak Up. When you’re unhappy, you have three options: you can whine, you can wait, or you can take responsibility, says Horn. Be proactive rather than passive. Tell the PTA president “No” if you don’t want to be in charge of the silent auction this spring. Staying true to yourself minimizes feelings of burnout and resentment.
9. Make a Difference. Giving to others increases feelings of competence and connectedness. TumaYoung volunteers with Enchanted Makeovers, a non-profit organization that offers inside-out makeovers to women and children living in shelters. “It’s not about giving to the needy,” says Tuma-Young. “We’re all needy. When we help each other, we heal our own lives.”
10. Be Positive. It may seem like other people have easier lives, but that’s just an illusion. Pay attention to small victories, like making a homecooked meal that everyone in the family will eat. Celebrate improvement rather than focusing on perfection. And give yourself permission to feel disappointed when setbacks happen. Just don’t let them stop you from starting again. And again. mp
Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mother of two. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.
be, ge eso t
o o
n,
m
r d
om
69
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
NextGen Martial Arts Finish Successful Season
Sterling Little Miss Christmas Pageant November 1st
The 5th annual Sterling Miss Christmas Pageants will be held on Saturday, November 1, at the RiversEdge Church, located on Atlanta Highway in Montgomery. This pageant series is for girls who live in Alabama, age 1 month to 17 years, with seven age categories: Baby Miss (12 month to 23 mos.) Tiny Miss (24 mo.–35 mos.), Petite Miss (3-5 yrs.), Little Miss (6-8 yrs.), Pre-Teen Miss (9-11 yrs.), Jr. Teen (12-14 yrs.) Teen Miss (15-17 yrs.). The pageant will begin at 2:30 p.m. Deadline for applications is Friday, October 24. Applications may be found online at www.SterlingMiss.org, in Prattville at the Bridal Boutique & Tux Shoppe, in Clanton at Brenda’s Formals and in Wetumpka at A Touch of Class. Contestants, age 12 month to 5 years, may wear a long or short pageant dress or heirloom dress. For ages 6 and up, formal wear is a LONG pageant gown. No other outfits are required for this competition. Optional categories include: Most Photogenic, Most Beautiful Dress and Best Personality. A People’s Choice crown will also be awarded in each age category. Collect votes from family and friends at $1 per vote for the contestant. Votes will be collected at and throughout the pageant. No double crown winners. The money collected benefits Children’s Miracle Network, which offers free assistance to victims of domestic violence and their children. New, unwrapped toys are also being collected for Toys for Tots. “Space is limited, so I would suggest sending in applications early for those who want to compete,” said Director DiDi Henry. “We limit each age category to no more than 10 contestants.” Check in opens at 1:30 p.m. for all age categories. The entry fee for the event is $40. Optional categories are from $5 to $15 per category. Checks should be made payable to: Sterling Miss Pageants, P.O. Box 763, Montgomery, Alabama 36102. For more information, applications and the Frequently Asked Question fact sheet, visit www.SterlingMiss.org or call 313-5444. Shown are the Queens from the 2012 Sterling Miss Christmas Pageant. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
NextGen Martial Arts kicked off the summer with a HyperPro weeklong day camp. Activities included sword training, kick challenges, and tumbling. Then, five students from NextGen traveled to compete in the prestigious Battle of Atlanta where they brought back 3 first places (sparring, musical weapons, traditional weapons), 2 second places (creative weapons, creative forms), a third place (musical forms), and a 4th place in creative weapons. NextGen also hosted seminars taught by World Champion martial artists Kalman Csoka and Austin Crain. The seminars focused on sword training techniques and Extreme Kicks and Tricks training. Our students then had the opportunity to attend a Tang Soo Do boot camp which focused on training in forms, weapons, sparring, self defense, kicks, history and etiquette. At the end of this week, several students completed testing for their Black Belts. Our new Black Belts are: Kevin Henry, Daniel Maddox, Isabelle Scott and Grant Scott. The final event to cap off a successful summer was performing a demo for the premiere of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie in Prattville. Students from our Extreme Martial Arts class entertained the crowds by showing off their skills with bo staff, sword, kamas, sai, and nunchakus. For more info on our classes and school, visit www.nextgenmartialarts.com or call (334) 590-3759. Kalman Csoka and Austin Crain are shown at one of the seminars.
Armory Gymnasts Reach New Level
Practicing 16 hours a week during the summer paid off for eleven new Armory Athletics Level 6 gymnasts. On August 11, these girls competed in a mobility meet held at the Armory. Counter clockwise from top left are Landyn Williams, Kassidy Roberts, Tehya Lujan, Phoebe Reed, Julianna Pope, Isabella Baker, Anne Chamberlain, Borden Lash, Miquela Borth, Anniston Kelley and Jordyn Rizzuto.
70
www.montgomeryparents.com
an
inf ow
n
Aldersgate Methodist Men Host 30th Annual BBQ
om
g , g le
me , n-
Chung’s Tae Kwon Do & Fitness Competes in Regional Championship
Sixteen students from Tallassee participated, all of whom placed in Forms competition and/or Sparring and Board Breaking. Sixteen trophies and fourteen medals were earned. Chung’s Tae Kwon Do & Fitness is located on King Street in Tallassee. For more information about Tae Kwon Do classes for all ages anytime throughout the year, contact owner Tracy Daar at (334) 799-1891.
Training Classes Offered for Foster Parents
Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries will begin its next session of foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area soon. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@ abchome.org.
Fall is almost upon us and that means it is time for some slow-cooked BBQ at the Aldersgate United Methodist Men’s 30th Annual Barbecue on Saturday, October 18. For only $8 per plate, folks can taste the finest barbecued pork and chicken on the SAME PLATE, as well as generous sides of baked beans, slaw and bread. Boxes will go on sale beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, located at 6610 Vaughn Road. Boxes will be available until 2 p.m., or while supplies last. Drivethru pick up service is provided at the front of the church by Boy Scout Troop 306. Tickets can be purchased in advance, or boxes can be bought on the day of the sale. Proceeds from the barbecue will benefit the Aldersgate Methodist Men’s mission and service projects for the upcoming year. Projects include Boy Scouts, United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) and other disaster relief organizations, hunger relief (such as the Society of Saint Andrew), short-term mission trips, and assistance for the elderly. For more information, contact Aldersgate United Methodist Church at 272-6152 or send e-mail to aldersgateumm@gmail.com.
One of the many reasons to smile...
s ra en
om
“ ” Prattville Location 460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, AL 36066 (334) 358-6411
www.SmilesFromUs.com 71
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing
Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Grandma’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. However, the Hands-On Gallery and Grandma’s Attic will temporarily close for 2nd floor hallway renovations this summer. The Museum will remain closed until Monday, August 19. You can visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. Stay tuned in for upcoming events from the Archives, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-yearolds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with well-known artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters. Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and community-based organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@bellsouth.net. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 457-9254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail. com for more info. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The
CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 3241406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com. The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown
September 2014 as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from FebruaryMay 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www. firstwhitehouse.org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church
Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 349-4235 or visit www.chomonline.org. Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops and Parties for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 3565292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served
72
(215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www. oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/ person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admis-
www.montgomeryparents.com
sion 6 fr tion Pra An ing frie also at v suc me a.m info or n Riv Eve littl fam ing at Roa dan Ro 252 Mo Sun und wit Mu Sto Enj var Vis ent din 4-D Sum tion Hig ing Tre tion $19 fee Req an sto Toa was wit club spe effe tak den tim ced ters Toa Reg Me loca 179 Gen aol Tal Join and for fere Nex ww
C
Bre Des bre
4
,
ge m
m.
. or h
2
n
9. a
t
r s ed
g sts t
n by sit ry-
and up n
call
m.
om
sion: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com River Region Contra Dancing Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and families are welcome. All levels of experience – including no experience. Dancing is on 1st & 3rd Fridays at 7 p.m. at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 5260 Vaughn Road. For more info, visit www.riverregioncontradance.com or call Katherine Thomas at 334-361-6572. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www. stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@ aol.com. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next class is September 17. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.
Classes
Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-
shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. Content includes: Traffic Light Eating, Brainy Breakfasts, the Truth about Fats, Powering up with Protein and Play, and more! The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities, and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more information, contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. Baptist Medical Center East. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Math & Science for Preschoolers Classes for “3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science)” are held every
73
Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children ages 3-5 will learn math and science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. long and $8/week. Join us at 1585 E Main St, Prattville (next to Pri-Med), to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook for times. To register or for more info, contact Susan Trombley at 321blasttimes@ outlook.com or (334) 380-1879. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Fun, interactive 3-week series of nutrition classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; Optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; Transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more information contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or via Facebook - www.Facebook.com/ LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Provides expectant mothers information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule.
Services
American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team.
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/patients_volunteers. html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. College scholarships to cancer survivors Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through www.cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345 The Central Alabama Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets 10 a.m.-noon on second Saturdays at Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church, 6000 Atlanta Highway, Room 3105. We have guest speakers, video presentations, printed information and a group that welcomes sharing in an informal setting. Refreshments provided. Interested patients, family members and friends are encouraged to come. For more info, contact Lorenzo and Elaine Duncan at (334) 281-8158, or by e-mail at duncan6563@gmail.com. General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.
Support Groups
Divorce Support
Adoption Support
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Hannah Taylor at 4099477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and gettogethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.
Cancer Support
American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore, Autauga, & Macon Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery office at 6128162 or call 1-800-ACS-2345 and you will be connected to the Montgomery office.** Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call Luella Giles at 612-8162 for more info. Man to Man is an American Cancer Society support group for men who are battling or have survived prostate cancer. It offers them education, discussion and support. Please call for next meeting dates at the American Cancer Society Office in Montgomery. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Divorce Care and Divorce Care 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays starting August 22 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Divorce Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info.
Gambling Support
Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420
Grief Support
Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or
74
September 2014 grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 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 organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 2842721. We will also collect Toys for Tots for anyone interested in participating. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. Grief Recovery After Suicide, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., first Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Room 3102. This group is open to family members and friends who have lost a loved one as the result of suicide. Group offers a confidential environment in which to receive support, hope and information. Contact Rev. Susan Beeson, 272-8622. Grief Share, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. HOM provides quality palliative care to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in our community affected by terminal illness; maintains the highest ethical standards; and educates the community about the hospice concept and end-of-life issues. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen. org or call (334) 328-1202.
www.montgomeryparents.com
Mo for thro day We info Gw tom to M ser our
Ho
ECH Har Dea to n fam mo
Ill
Alz mo to 1 req tion to b of e me sup Car tive 4th Cen call Hea Dai pro Div Cha
4
n
SW
ed
ey, ato
,
zave will ren
is al rs
p
, r:
000 p
Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Our purpose is to glorify God as we serve Him in comforting and encouraging each other in our grief and growth.
Homeschool Support
ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com
Illness Support
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. Each participant needs to bring a sack lunch. On the first Thursday of each month, the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 beginning at 10:30 a.m. For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA.
Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 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. Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance, Room 3101 at Frazer UMC, 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 2728622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 2019638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChaseNE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page.
Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group will begin meeting on May 12 from 6:30-7:45 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group will meet on second Mondays of each month. Meetings are open to anyone who is interested in issues concerning mental health. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for directions/details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. This group is just getting started so a specific meeting time has not been set yet. Location will be 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 3rd Tuesdays from 6:30-8 p.m. in room 3104. This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For 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
MC, m. s
d
e
ust ut
les
ly to ed
s o age d
e d ng
al
asn.
om
75
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif. org. Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.
Parent Support
D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his daughter Erin. It gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. All fathers in the River Region are invited to bring their daughters to the library to read, laugh and have fun. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more information, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (5691500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_heather@ yahoo.com). Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http://montgomerymultiplesclub.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, need a little break? MOPS is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail. com.
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Pregnancy Loss/Infertility
Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information.
Single Parents Support
Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 2728622.
Special Needs Support
Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/ caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@ earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more information, contact Lyrastephens@yahoo. com.
Teens/Families Support
Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled
76
September 2014 seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info! “Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way. Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m. “Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity! “Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children. “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating. “Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher! Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot! You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or email trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.
This Month
Monday, September 1
Labor Day Celebration at Old Alabama Town Bring your kids (and your dog!) to explore our two blocks of authentically restored early Alabama structures. Our village will be bustling with musicians strumming on banjos, craftspeople demonstrating traditional crafts like spinning & weaving, “real life villagers” eager to tell you the latest village gossip on the porch, kids throwing horseshoes or playing checkers, and folks just enjoying daily village life! Let your kids have a hand at some old-fashioned games, then get their photo taken with a costumed character. Top it off with a plate from Smokehouse BBQ and some cool drinks, available for purchase. As the sun begins to set on Old Alabama Town, we’ll gather in Kiwanis Park for a bluegrass concert by Lindsay Lou and the Flatbellys, sponsored by the Alabama Roots Music Society. No set admission, just pay what you want! Proceeds benefit the Roots Music Society and Old Alabama Town. The kids can play on the playground while you grab a blanket and kick back! Smokehouse BBQ will also be available for purchase during the show. Old Alabama Town will be open 9 a.m.-4 pm. Last ticket sold at 3 p.m. Adults are $10, kids ages 5-18 are $5, age 4 & under free. Bluegrass in the park will start at 7 p.m., gates open at 6 p.m. Donations accepted. Visit www. oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500 for more info.
Tuesday, September 2
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math,
www.montgomeryparents.com
Eng hel 3-2 eve Toy boo on call Pra Tue 3-6 the loca brin add abo the
W
Cap And The sion Mad The mo a va late Ser are Ice Sci 3-2 Eng eve den Cla ceb 380
Th
Sci 3-2 Eng eve will Cla ceb 380 Yel Par Des the Dai ab con ent Mor two and acti eve Fes to t ann eve Pra Thr Pra Wri Bar dep $8 pur mo gov
Fr
The Gu 8p Bea
4
oof s
s ve he
n en ges at
es
s t s
nd 8 ks,
s
EE s, e’t the
ia age
res.
s ell ng g
a ese.
say ots
ld
w. et age m.,
,
om
Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held every Tuesday at Kazoo Toys. Children, ages 3-2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 minutes. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 4:45 pm, to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request more info. Prattville Autauga Tuesday Farmers Market Tuesdays through September 23 3-6 p.m. This additional market day will be held in the parking lot of Dollar Tree and the old Office Depot location at 1922 Cobbs Ford Road. Local growers will bring their fruits, vegetables, honey and more to this additional market day in Prattville. For more information about the Prattville Autauga Farmers Market, contact the Special Events office at 334/595-0854.
Wednesday, September 3
Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. The Capital City Master Gardener Association provides a monthly educational series called “Lunch and Learn,” on a variety of gardening topics in a classroom setting. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided. Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held every Wednesday at Prattville Wesleyan Preschool. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information.
Thursday, September 4
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held every Thursday at Montessori at Hampstead. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information. Yellow Daisy Festival at Stone Mountain (Georgia) Park -- Through September 7 Despite its growth from a small arts & crafts show to the four-day event that it has become today, the Yellow Daisy Festival Presented by Humana continues to be a big show with a small-town feel. The mission of reconnecting families and friends with fun, shopping, live entertainment and good food has remained constant. More than 400 artists and crafters from 38 States and two countries display their works for your appreciation and purchase. Daily live entertainment, Children’s Corner activities, and crafter demonstrations throughout the event as well as fabulous festival foods. Yellow Daisy Festival is free with paid parking admission. Vehicle entry to the park is $10 for a one-day permit or $35 for an annual permit. Visit http://www.stonemountainpark.com/ events. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Presents Bargains Through September 21 Prattville Cultural Arts Center, 203 W. 4th Street. Written by Jack Heifner and directed by Tina Abate. Bargains is a comedy that revolves around a discount department store in a small Texas town. TICKETS: $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the Cultural Arts office or by phone. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal. gov/.
F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADITIO NAL W O RSH IP 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 A M SUNDAY SCH O O L 9: 45 AM TH E W ELL 11: 00 AM
www.prattvillemethodist.org
Friday, September 5
The Fab Four “The Ultimate Tribute” w/ Special Guest Ed Sullivan at MPAC 8 p.m. The Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles tribute due to their precise attention to detail.
77
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups With uncanny, note for note live renditions of Beatles’ songs, the Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing. Hosted by “Ed Sullivan,” this incredible multimedia stage production represents every era of the Beatles ever-changing career. Call the MPAC Box Office at (334) 481-5100 or visit www. mpaconline.org for tickets. Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held one Friday a month at Glynwood Childcare Ministries in Prattville. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@ outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request more info.
Saturday, September 6
Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Pre-registration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/events to register or for more info. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Jasmine Hill Gardens & Museum Wetumpka. Open Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. through October. For more info, visit www.jasminehill.org. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is “Build a Wizard of Oz Birdhouse.” In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.noon. Ages 5-12. Free. Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Saturdays Through September 28 New location and new management. “In the grove” located on Doster Road across from Gillespie Center (332 Doster Road). 7 a.m.-noon. Featuring locally grown fruits, vegetables, plants, honey and more, with special features, music, art and lots of fun every Saturday. Call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal. gov. Santuck Flea Market 7300 Central Plank Road/Highway 9, Wetumpka. An outdoor flea market with more than 450 booths featuring arts, crafts, antiques, novelties, imports, food, and more.Open the first Saturday of each month MarchDecember from daylight until 2 p.m. RAIN OR SHINE. Santuck Flea Market and Santuck Community Center are owned and operated by community volunteers. All proceeds benefit the Santuck Volunteer Fire Department, Santuck Community Center, and various community needs. Each month a different church or civic organization operates the kitchen in Venable Hall to raise much needed funds. Free admission, free parking available. Call (334) 567-7400.
Sunday, September 7
Special Needs Skate -- Also September 21 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.
Monday, September 8
Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math,
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Engineering, & Science) classes begin today and are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children, ages 3 through 2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 mins. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 10:15 a.m. or 1585 E. Main St. in Prattville (next to Pri-Med) at 12:05 p.m., to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call 334-380-1879 to register or request more info.
Tuesday, September 9
VEG OUT Montgomery 7-9 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead community. Look for a big red barn! For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth.org or visit www.facebook.com/ VegOutMontgomery. Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes continue today at Kazoo Toys. Children, ages 3-2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 mins. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 4:45 p.m., to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request more info.
Wednesday, September 10
CAMGA “Lunch & Learn” Meeting Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, the free event will begin at noon and end at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more information call the ACES office at 567-6301.
Thursday, September 11
Free Forum on ‘Common Core’ 6:30 p.m., River City Church (formerly Dexter Ave UMC) at 301 Dexter Avenue in Montgomery. For those wanting to learn more about the Common Core programs in Alabama’s schools, there will be a free forum entitled ‘Stand In the Gap Alabama.’ Panelists are Alice Linahan, Luca Bocci and Troy Towns. Linahan, of ‘Voices Empower’ and ‘Women on the Wall’, will share how concerned parents can use social media strategically and effectively. Luca has been active in promoting freedom in countries around the world. Montgomery resident Troy Towns is the Minority Outreach Director for the Republican Party in Alabama. No pre-registration is required but those interested are encouraged to visit www.cityonahill.tv and click on Eventbrite to indicate their intention to attend. More information may also be obtained by going to Stop Common Core AL on Facebook. Broadway Under the Stars Join the Montgomery Symphony at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival Blount Cultural Park. This free outdoor concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and will feature Broadway favorites. Gates open at 5 p.m. for picnicking. Special VIP picnics and tables are available by calling the Symphony office at (334) 240-4004. Visit www.montgomerysymphony.org for details. Capri Classics Presents The Big Lebowski 7:30 p.m. Directed by the Coen Brothers and starring Jeff Bridges as “The Dude” Lebowski. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org.
78
September 2014 Pike Road Annual 9/11 Ceremony 6:30 p.m. Location is Pike Road Town Hall (9575 Vaughn Road.) In addition to remembering those who lost their life, the Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary will honor the first responders and firefighters from the eight Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Departments along with law enforcement officers who serve today. Guest speaker will be Retired Colonel Charles “Chuck” Douglass who was a first responder for the US Air Force at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Special music will be performed by Donica Knight and the presentation of colors and ringing of the bell will be performed by the Montgomery County Honor Guard. Hot dogs & hamburgers will be served at the conclusion of the event. Visit Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary on Facebook.
Friday, September 12
Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also September 26 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a nonprofit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tricounty area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho. com.
Saturday, September 13
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. Family Guidance Center Walk/Run 2014 Shoppes at EastChase. Scenic 5K and 10K routes. Electronic chip timing system. Race day registration will begin at 6 a.m. Opening ceremony and warmups begin at 7 a.m. by the fountain. The event will begin at 7:30. Food, door prizes and free massages will be provided. Free Kids’ Dash. Proceeds benefit the Family Guidance Center of Alabama. Must register by September 5 to be guaranteed a T-shirt on event day. For more info, visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com or call (334) 279-6046. Crossroads Theater Returns to the Town of Pike Road 6:30-8:30 p.m. This year’s event will feature the “Legends and Lore of Pike Road.” Pike Road native, author and storyteller Conie Mac Darnell will share first-hand stories about growing up here and give you insight into what shaped Pike Road into the place we call HOME today. The evening will also feature live music from the talented Wes Darnell. Tickets are just $25 and include a delicious meal from Pike Road’s own Tammy Griffin-A Catered Affair!
www.montgomeryparents.com
Pur is l Fre Sch 10 Mo to we con unf len fro on mo ses lim at ( Be Sa Bea par sea par Che The con tec bam but to (33 com Mu On 1p foc is a and thr Se by Gre Gra spe req Ala dow Sta Mo For ala
4
o st dies
w
les
1. d
ard. -
a d u or
We ir he nd y hip
ay
.
Purchase your tickets at Pike Road Town Hall. Seating is limited. For more info, call (334) 272-9883. Free Admission To ‘America’ Movie for High School Juniors, Seniors, College Students 10 a.m. at the AMC Theatre on Vaughn Road in Montgomery. The movie “America” will be shown free to River Region high school juniors and seniors as well as college students. The movie presents pro and con responses to the question “Was America evil and unfair in its infancy or was it innovative and benevolent?” Well-known professors, historians and authors from the ‘left’ and ‘right’ give their views and opinions on this most important subject. The free, two-hour movie will be followed by a question and answer session. Seating for the free showing of “America” is limited and may be reserved by contacting Mary Long at (334) 462-4214 or Phil Easter at (334) 451-0366. Beasley Allen Sponsors Fifth Annual Seat Check Saturday Event Beasley Allen Law Firm sponsors free seat checks for parents and caregivers to ensure children’s safety seats are properly installed in their vehicle; event is part of National Child Passenger Safety Week. Seat Check Saturday will be held from 9 a.m.-noon at The Shoppes at EastChase and will be presented in conjunction with Safe Kids USA, which provides safety technicians to install and check seats, and the Alabama Department of Public Health. The event is free, but space is limited, so please call to reserve a time to have your car seats inspected. Call Helen Taylor at (334) 495-1169 or e-mail helen.taylor@beasleyallen. com. Museum Of Alabama Offers Free, Themed Tours On Second Saturdays 1 p.m. Led by expert staff members, these tours will focus on a wide variety of Alabama history topics. This is a unique opportunity for visitors to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of Alabama’s story through the museum’s Smithsonian-quality exhibitions. September 13 is “Alabama Celebrates,” presented by Shaelyn Amaio, Curator of Education. From the Green Corn Ceremony to the Iron Bowl, from Mardi Gras to World’s Fairs, learn how Alabamians mark special occasions. No pre-registration for tours is required. The Museum of Alabama is located at the Alabama Department of Archives and History in downtown Montgomery, across the street from the State Capitol. The Archives and the Museum are open Monday-Saturday, 8:30-4:30. Admission is always free. For more info, call 242-4364 or visit www.museum. alabama.gov.
Sunday, September 14
Prattauga Art Guild ARTrek Exhibit Opening 2 p.m., Prattville Creative Arts Center. ARTrek is considered the opening of the Art Season in the River Region and the Prattauga Art Guild is a member of the River Region Art Gallery Association which sponsors ARTrek. This exhibit is free and open to the public. For more info, please call (334) 595-0854.
Monday, September 15
30th Annual College and Career Night 6-8 p.m., Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery. Hosted by The Junior League of Montgomery, this night is designed for high school students in the tri-county area to explore college and career possibilities, gather scholarship information, and find out about financial aid opportunities. FREE to the Public! In addition to financial aid seminars, a comprehensive booklet, published by the Junior League, is distributed free of charge and includes information on federal, state and local scholarships, grants and loans. Financial Aid Seminar begins at 6:30 p.m. For more info, call 334-288-8816.
Tuesday, September 16
Wetumpka Business Expo 2:30-5:30 p.m. Wetumpka Civic Center. Wetumpka’s biggest business event of the year! Spaces sell out fast with more than 500 in attendance. 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.
Thursday, September 18
ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “Bishops, Bourbons, and Big Mules: A History of the Episcopal Church in Alabama,” presented by J. Barry Vaughn. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov. Zoobilation 2014 6 p.m.-close. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery. Dance to the groove, delight in drinks and food samplings from the finest eateries in the River Region, try your luck at the vast collection of auction items and rub elbows with the area’s finest
animal lovers. Zoobilation is a fundraiser geared for adults only. All guests must be 21 years old or older to attend. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased online at montgomeryzoo.com or at the Zoo’s gift shop and museum. For more info, call (334) 240-4900.
Friday, September 19
Alabama Roots Music Society’s Juke #7 7-10 p.m. at the Union Station Train Shed in downtown Montgomery. Nick Moss and the Flip Tops will bring their traditional Chicago blues sound. Bring your picnic and enjoy a great night of music while supporting ARMS. Visit www.alabamarootsmusic.com.
Saturday, September 20
4TH Annual World Wide Day of Play 2-5 p.m. Cooters Pond Park- Upper Level in Prattville. Join the City of Prattville and the U.S. Army for the World Wide Day of Play. There will be obstacle courses for K-2nd grade, 3rd-6th grade, and 7th-8th grades. Each course will be designed for those age groups. Medals will be given out in different categories. The U.S. Army will provide camouflage face painting for the event. GO Explore Good Old Days at the Alabama Nature Center -- Through September 21 Stressed out? Take a step back in time and enjoy life when things were a lot simpler. Mosey around the ANC and enjoy bee keeping, quilters, historic tours, dulcimers, hayrides, wood carving, blacksmiths, potters, dutch oven cooking demonstrations, tour the heirloom gardens, plant sale, Gene Jones antique tractor displays and period arts and crafts--just to name a few. Gates will be open Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for ANC trail use. Good ‘Ole Days activities will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.alabamawildlife.org for details.
Sunday, September 21
Family Art Affair at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to this FREE fun event, and enjoy a jazz combo, art activities in the
un e ill us w. 1.
n
l s
irt
,
air!
om
79
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Calendar/Support Groups Thursday, September 25
studios, and wonderful art work in the galleries! Museum exhibition connection: Origins: The First Twenty-Five Years of the MMFA Collection.
Monday, September 22
Local Librarians Invited to State Library Workshop Through September 24 All local librarians are invited to the Alabama Church Library Workshop at Shocco Springs Conference Center. Special guest will be Gilbert Morris, who is among today’s most popular Christian writers, his books having sold more than seven million copies worldwide. A former pastor and English professor, he specializes in historical fiction and won a 2001 Christy Award for the Civil War drama Edge of Honor. Morris lives with his wife in Gulf Shores. Check In/ Registration begins at 9:30 a.m.; Early Bird Session Begins at 10:15 a.m.; First General Session Begins at 12:15 p.m. Workshop Ends After Lunch on Wednesday. For more info, visit www.alsbom.org/churchlibrary. To register, call 1-800-280-1105.
Wednesday, September 24
The Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. The speaker will be The speaker will be Ned Jenkins, who will talk about the history of Ft.Toulouse-Jackson National Park. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, September 22, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth. net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com.
ARTtalk at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Get an up-close look at artists, their work and the creative process in this unique program, designed for area artists as well as those interested in art. Artists bring a work of art to the Museum, show it to other artists and have friendly feedback about their work. Charge is $20 for Museum or Art Guild Members, $35 for non-members. Visit www.mmfa. org or call 240-4333 for more info. Millbrook Community Players Present Harvey Through October 4 Directed by Susan Chain. When Elwood P. Dowd starts to introduce his imaginary friend, Harvey, a six-and-a-half-foot rabbit, to guests at a society party, his sister, Veta, has seen as much of his eccentric behavior as she can tolerate. She decides to have him committed to a sanitarium to spare her daughter, Myrtle Mae, and their family from future embarrassment. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. September 25-27 and October 2-4 and at 2 p.m. September 28. Visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call (334) 782-7317 for tickets. Theatre AUM Presents The Pulitzer Project Through October 5 An evening of scenes and songs from Pulitzer Prizewinning plays. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. MondaySaturday and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $10 for the general public and $5 for seniors, non-AUM students and military. AUM faculty, staff and students admitted free of charge. No late seating. Children younger than age 6 not admitted. For reservations, contact Katie Pearson at 244-3632 or kpearso2@aum. edu. Wetumpka Depot Players Present A Higher Place in Heaven -- Through October 11 The prequel to Pamela Parker’s hit play Second Samuel, A Higher Place in Heaven is the story of
September 2014 unlikely friendships and family secrets. This heartfelt dramedy set in 1925 is directed by Kim Mason and features a small, but mighty, cast of Depot favorites. For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit www.wetumpkadepot.com. Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents Man of La Mancha -- Through October 18 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $26.50 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $21.50. Reservations must be paid in advance. To make reservations or for more information, call 877840-0457 or visit http://www.ticketforce.com/.
Friday, September 26
14th Annual Blue Jean Ball Benefiting Auburn University and AUM’s Schools of Nursing Dust off your dancing boots, because the 14th annual Blue Jean Ball will return to Coach Pat Dye’s Crooked Oaks Hunting Lodge in Notasulga at 5 p.m. Net proceeds from the event support scholarships, programs and initiatives benefitting the schools’ students and faculty. The evening will kick off with a silent auction while Jay Hughes performs country music from the front porch of the lodge. Birds of prey from the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Southeastern Raptor Center and university mascots Aubie and Curtiss will make appearances for photo opportunities. Blue Denim will provide musical entertainment during dinner and for dancing. Tours of Dye’s home will be available, followed by a live auction emceed by Dye and Auburn men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl. Former NFL player and Montgomery native Jeno James is also scheduled to be in attendance. Individual tickets are available for $125. Sponsorships start at $1,200 for a table of eight guests. Reservations must be made in advance. For more info or
0000067769-01
New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
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...
waiting lists start early...sign up soon!... Waitingwww.riverviewcamp.com! lists start early...sign up soon!... 1
Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722
D RAMA
www.riverviewcamp.com
Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 3 hr drive.
AND
Dr. Larry & Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors • Donna Bares,Asst. Director
1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16
C RAFTS • C HORUS
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,
AND
FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF
We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International
• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T OWER • O UTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
80
to o nur ste Mo Be FRE Mo we beg Vis Go Thr Vau Sat Kim wo
www.montgomeryparents.com
am wh Wh lion
4
elt
s. mp-
m
w. ust
7-
n
m.
rey td
t e
ips -
to order tickets, visit www.auburn.edu/academic/ nursing/bluejeanball or contact Stephanie Wood at stephaniewood@auburn.edu or (334) 844-7390. Montgomery Ballet Presents Ballet and the Beasts FREE performance under the stars at the Montgomery Zoo. Picnic blankets and chairs are welcome. Gates open at 6 p.m.; the performance will begin at dusk. Visit www.montgomeryzoo.com. God of Order Conference for Women Through September 27 Vaughn Forest Church, Friday 7-9:30 p.m.; and Saturday 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jo Hancock, speaker; Kim Hendrix, guest speaker; and Jonathan Green, worship leader. Tickets $25 before 9/5; $30 after 9/5; and $35 at door. Visit vaughnforest.com or call (334) 279-5433. Cloverdale Playhouse Troupe Presents The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe -Through September 28 Directed by Jason Morgan and starring young actors, the Playhouse presents a classic tale of good and evil. The four Pevensie children find themselves transported through a magical wardrobe to the ancient land of Narnia, which has been ruled in perpetual winter by the White Witch. The children join forces with the great lion Aslan and an army of mythical creatures to save
the land of Narnia. Performances are at 6:30 p.m. September 26-27 and at 2 p.m. September 27-28. For audiences of all ages. $5 per child 12 and under, $10 adult. Call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org to get tickets.
Saturday, September 27
Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, Cupcakes by Tish will now host Cupcake Decorating Workshops. Classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 1215 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@cupcakesbytish. com. “Runway of Dreams” Career and Community Day Hosted by Pink and Pearls for Girls Inc. at the Chisholm Community Center, 545 E. Vandiver Blvd., Montgomery. On behalf of Pink and Pearls for Girls Inc., we would like to invite local businesses, organizations, and vendors to help celebrate our youth dreams and goals. Also, we ask that you bring the children any type of donations, giveaways, or provide an arts and craft/activity. Tables will be provided for you to set up. The event will start promptly at 9 a.m. You may come at 8 a.m. to set up. This event will end promptly at 11 a.m. At 10:30 a.m. our youth will get a chance to walk the “Runway of Dreams.” They will
model career attire of what they would like to be or have a career in. If you are able to participate, please contact Grace Harvey at (334) 561-5091.
Sunday, September 28
Taste of the River Region Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery. The Junior League of Montgomery and The Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance host the 2014 Taste of the River Region from 6-8 p.m. Sample food and beverages from local establishments, dance to live entertainment and win fabulous door prizes! General admission tickets are $30. For more info, call (334) 288-8816 or visit www.jlmontgomery. org./
Friday, October 3
Alabama National Fair -- Through October 13 Entertainment this year includes Styx, Kool and the Gang, Easton Corbin and Joe Nichols. For more info, visit www. alnationalfair.org.
Saturday, October 4
Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
•
AND
C RAFTS • C HORUS
AND
D RAMA
•
om
81
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
throughout the year, from 9 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org. Deck the Halls with Former White House Decorator 11:30 a.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Trinity Hall.Luncheon benefits Alabama Governor’s Mansion. Learn how to make your home merry and bright by attending Deck the Halls, featuring former White House decorator Jane Karotkin. Admission is $30 and includes a boxed lunch from Jennie Weller Catering for those who register in advance. Learn more at www.facebook.com/foagm. To register for Deck the Halls, mail a check payable to the Friends of the Alabama Governor’s Mansion to PO Box 124, Montgomery, 36106. While last-minute guests will be admitted at the door, lunch will only be provided to those who register in advance. For more info, call (334) 263-7914. House of Holidays at First Methodist Church of Wetumpka 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Come join us for a day of shopping fun. Arts and crafts in the Depot, bakery, frozen entrees, Second time around, yard sale, plants, toys and children’s corner. Lunch served for $5 a plate. FUMC Wetumpka, 306 W. Tuskeena St. Call (334) 567-7865 or visit www.fumcwetumpka.com.
B
R
Wednesday, October 8
Audition for Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker 6-9 p.m. Sponsored by Tonya Speed Dance Connection, 3370 Harrison Rd., Montgomery. For ages 7-16. Register at Nutcracker. com/audition. Performance will be held Tuesday, November 25, at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. For more info about the auditions, call (334) 277-1098 or e-mail ucantap2@charter.net.
Friday, October 10
An Evening with the Gaither Vocal Band 7 p.m., Frazer United Methodist in Montgomery. For more infor and tickets, visit https://www. premierproductions.com/tour/gaither-tour-2014/ montgomery-al.
Saturday, October 11
Pride of Prattville Marching Band Hosts Heart of Dixie Marching Festival Stanley Jensen Stadium in Prattville. Competing high school bands from all over Alabama. Please contact Band Director Chris King at (334) 365-8804 or at prattvillebands.com if you would like your band to participate. Start times will be announced on prattvillebands.com as we get closer to the date of the festival.
Calendar information due by the 15th of each month. Please send to editor@ montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
82
www.montgomeryparents.com
fu
on
th •
I
•
C
•
M
•
P
•
E
•
R
•
F
•
A
•1
or
y on. y
Bradford Health Services ROAD MAP TO ADOLESCENT RECOVERY
s ,
d all
ys
r
e
., y. 16.
Addiction is not an easy road for adults and can be even more difficult for teenagers. Drug and alcohol dependency can take
n.
adolescents away from their families, friends, and a successful
future. Bradford Health Services has guided young people and their families
BRADFORD
on the road to recovery for more than 30 years. We help adolescents and their families identify, embrace, and maximize their strengths and skill sets. •
Inpatient Treatment, Intensive Outpatient Treatment & Continuing Care
t
•
Clinical services facilitated by licensed therapists
igh ct
•
Medical services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
•
Psychological Evaluation
•
Education Program
•
Recreational Activities
•
Family Education Program
•
Adventure-Based Counseling
e
om
• 12-Step
HEALTH SERVICES
Call today for a free consultation 334-244- 0702 • 1- 800 - 333 -1865 www.bradfordhealth.com
Groups
There Is Hope Ahead. 83
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Business Card Directory
Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! Montgomery Parents I September 2014
84
www.montgomeryparents.com
om
Business Card Directory
Virtual Assistant
Social Media Management **NO SET UP FEE FOR SEPTEMBER** Professional Resume Writer / Cover Letters Multiple Database Management ANY Typing Needs
KatieGrimesRotton@Yahoo.com 334-467-7042
Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! 85
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
MontgomeryParents “Parents in the Know, Know Montgomery Parents” The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
www.montgomeryparents.com freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com
Are Your Customers WOMEN? So Are Our READERS! We Offer SMART ADVERTISING! Call Today, 213-7940
Home Based Business Directory Squeaky Clean
No job too big or small. Clean/disinfect kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum, dust and floors. Over 13 years experience. Affordable pricing. 334.451.0052
Saxon Lawn Service
You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324.
Chemistry Tutor
Virtual Assistant
Social Media Management / Ghostwriter Resume Writer / Personalized Cover Letters Effective Business Letters / ANY Typing Needs Brochures / Newsletters / Researcher / Grant Writer / Multiple Database Management / Calendar Choreographer / Special Events / FUN Excursions / Field Trips P/T Child Care / Pet Care Homeschool Mom / Tutoring (Elementary & Preschool)
B.E.C.T. Services
Email KatieGrimesRotton@Yahoo.com or call 334-467-7042.
Half off on first session if you mention this ad.
www.bect-services.com “Providing Support For Change” Providing supportive, flexible and individualized in-home and in-school counseling, behavioral and autism services. Licensed Professional Counselor National Certified Counselor Certified Anger Management Specialist Certified Autism Specialist 256-452-8504
BJ’s Cleaning Service
Piano Teacher
TUTORING
Clarence Hann, IV
Current Chemistry Teacher Experienced chemistry tutor Email channiv30@gmail.com or call 334-546-4860.
“We Clean When You Don’t Want To”
Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome. 1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.
Move In/Move Out Residential & Commercial Construction Sites Free Estimates Quality & Reasonable Rates Call Betty Dennis, Cleaning Specialist 334-303-2585
28 years teaching experience Tutoring grades 1st-8th Call Alice Gwin at (334) 300-8350. Email dalice.gwin@gmail.com.
4D
Ad
Ala
Alc
Ali
AS
AU
Au
Ba
Bra
Ca
Ce
Private Security Guard Work or Sit with Elderly
Busy as a Bee
Will do private security guard work for private parties at reasonable fee. Call 334-566-7124. Will sit with elderly, and do have experience. Call 334-670-6906.
Light and Deep Cleaning Jobs Free Quotes, Window Cleaning, Light Painting Jobs. Call Teri at 365.2727 or 320-8966.
Need a Babysitter?
Ms. Kidd’s House Daycare “Where Kids Come to Have Fun!” Call anytime for more information at 334-324-4559.
“Absolute Clean” Cleaning Service
Reliable, dependable, and trustworthy are the three things most needed when trusting someone in your home. We have all three of them, so just call Trenella @ 334-391-7596 for your free estimate and the absolute best cleaning job you could ask for with no worries, just a clean house. Call today!
Need It Clean? Give Us a Ring!
Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.
Provides breastfeeding education and consulting, antepartum and postpartum doula services. For more information please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-531-0145. Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com
Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training
The Piano Man
I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 9 years. Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183
Piano tunings, repair, and restoration. Active member of the Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. Call 569-9662 or visit www.pianoman.net/al
Southern Quality Lawns, LLC
Cassie’s English Tutor, Proofreader, Typist and Writer
“Quality Service from the Ground Up” Serving the tri county area. Call or email us for a free estimate. Bobby, 334-657-7750. robertsqlawns@gmail.com
Cassie Rogers (662) 380-6000 cassiesenglish@yahoo.com
Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors. Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.
Certified K-6 Teacher Reading and Math Tutoring Contact 334-456-3728 or email brittanygraves13@ hotmail.com
Montgomery Parents I September 2014
Ch
Ch
Da
De
Do
Do
Dr
Dy
E&
Ea
Ea
Brother to Brother Entertainment, Inc.
Get a DJ and a Photographer in one package for your next event. We specialize in birthdays, weddings, luncheons, family reunions, and holiday parties. Contact Matthew Ezell @ 334-202-6869 or Alexander Strum @ 334-235-3518
The FREE AD GUY knows that every business needs a few lucky breaks before it can become successful. That’s why he is offering more FREE ads to Home Based Businesses. In return, the FREE AD GUY would appreciate it if you would tell a friend about Montgomery Parents Magazine. If you’ll just help him spread the word about Montgomery Parents Magazine he’ll keep working for you and your business. If you have already run a FREE ad you can send a request to repeat the ad or make changes. Please understand but we will not accept any phone requests. For new Home Based Business advertisers, just send your information to: FREE AD GUY, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123, or freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com. The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.
86
Ch
www.montgomeryparents.com
Ea
Ed
Ev
Fa
Fir
Fir
Fle
G2
Gli
om
AdvertiserDirectory We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.
Holiday Market, Junior League, 24
New Park, 4
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 36
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 27
4D Mommies, 17
Hooper Academy, 28
Paradise Pumpkin Patch, 40
Adventure Sports II, 21
Huntington Learning Center, 27
Party Junction, 84
Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front
It Works, 18
Prattville Wesleyan Preschool, 85
Alcyone Gunn, 84
Jaclyn’s Salon and Spa, 28
Professional Pediatrics, 12
Alice Gwin Tutoring, 85
Jenny Alexander, MD, 84
Pump It Up Party, 42
ASKIN/Synergy House, 85
Johnson Martial Arts/Karate, 22
River Region Straw, 22
AUM Continuing Education, 60
KLynn Ice Skating School, 52
Riverview Camp, 80
Autism Society of Alabama, 51
Katie Rotton Virtual Assistant, 85
Saint James School, 1
Baptist Health, 45
Kids Carousel, 31
Saint James UMC, Inside Back
Bradford Health Services, 83
Kingry Orthodontics, 77
Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 37
Camp ASCCA, 51
Kreative Moments, 85
Centerpoint Fellowship Church, 58
Kumon, 13
Chapman Orthodontics, 23
L.E.A.N. Health in Central AL, 39
Children’s Clothing Exchange, 2
LaToya Clark, MD, 14
Churchill Academy, 53
Learning Tree Child Care, 49
Dancewear, Etc., 85
Legacy Early Learning Center, 20
Dentistry for Children, 56
Little Explorer’s Learning Center, 38
Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 3
Lori Mercer Photography, 57
Doodlebugs Consignment, 41
Macon East Academy, 7
Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 65
Mathnasium, 21
Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 75
Melodic Vibes, LLC, 85
E & S Hobbies, 84
Miller Beef and Cattle, 65
Eastdale Mall, 33
Montessori @ Hampstead, 67
Easter Seals, 55
Montessori @ Mulberry, 39
Eastern Hills Preschool, 17
Montessori Academy, 61
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 19
Montgomery Catholic Schools, 26
Evangel Christian Academy, 34
Montgomery Humane Society, 11
Family Karate Center, 9
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 63
First UMC, Montgomery, 47
Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 71
First UMC, Prattville, 77
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 81
Fleming’s Martial Arts, 67
Montgomery Zoo, 69
G2 Services, 84
Mrs. Sandy’s House,84
Glitterbug the Clown, 42
My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 23, 29
Smart Smiles, 62 Smiles Galore Parties, 75
87
Soiree Mobile Spa for Girls, 67 Spacewalk of Montgomery, 38 Spacewalker, The, 35 Spotless Cleaning Services, 8 Success Unlimited Academy, 32 Sugar N Spice Daycare, 62 Sylvan Learning Center, 31 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 81 The Big Green Bus, 56 The Dollhouse Toy Store, 79 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover Tiger Park Taekwondo, 85 Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 55 Trinity Presbyterian School, 15 United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 19 Vaughn Park Church Upward, 57 Vaughn Road Preschool, 65 Vishnu Dental, 63 WeeOnes Daycare and Preschool, 41 Yeargan Farms Pumpkin Patch, 25 www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
If I Stay
When the Game Stands Tall
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: BSexual Content: CLanguage: C Alcohol / Drug Use: CThe MPAA has rated If I Stay PG-13 for thematic elements and some sexual material. If I Stay offers a highly predictable and sentimental love story, based on the popular novel by the same name, about a teenager torn between her love of music and her love of a boy. Mia Hall (Chloë Grace Moretz) plays the cello like an angel. Her parents (Mireille Enos, Joshua Leonard), rock-n-rollers from a previous generation, aren’t sure where their daughter’s appreciation for classical music came from, but they are supportive of her blossoming talent. Mia’s boyfriend Adam (Jamie Blackley), also a member of a rock band, enjoys hearing her play as well. Life is almost perfect. Then everything changes in an instant on a snowy highway. Suspended between life and death in an out-of-body experience, Mia watches from the sidelines as her comatose self is rushed to the hospital to undergo surgery. Standing beside the gurney, she watches Nurse Ramirez (Aisha Hinds) lean into her ear and tell her to fight. Yet with her world crumbling around her, Mia struggles to decide if she’ll stay or go into the light at the end of the hall. Like many movies aimed at adolescents, this one portrays characters involved in casual sex and drinking. But in this film, these aren’t college students or young adults. When the story begins Adam is a senior in high school and Mia a junior. Despite the fact she’s likely only 16, Mia gulps down liquor she’s been served in a bar while attending one of Adam’s gigs. And though Mia’s hipster parents may be more liberal than some in their outlook, there doesn’t seem to be any concerns about their daughter’s sexual activity. There certainly aren’t any consequences for her choices. As far as Mia’s mom is concerned, life is just one big mess so just live it. While that may be true, it could get a lot messier than it needs to be if teen viewers imitate the actions of these characters. The story jumps between the present and a jumble of flashbacks designed to fill in the details of Mia’s young life. Among the most redeeming elements are the relationships she shares with her family, including her brother Teddy (Jakob Davies) and her Grandpa (Stacey Keach). She’s also lucky to have friends and relations who stand by her unconscious body offering words of comfort and hope. It’s then that Mia learns about the sacrifices her parents made to encourage her talent. Unfortunately while those heartwarming moments are meant to generate tears, they don’t excuse the content issues that arise in this film. Sex and alcohol aside, Adam also pressures Mia to give up her dream of auditioning for Julliard in order to support his ambitions. While love often means making sacrifices, this seems like an awfully hefty concession for the exceptional cellist to have to make at such a young age.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: C+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated When the Game Stands Tall PG for thematic material, a scene of violence and brief smoking. Every team would rather win than lose. But nobody wants to be the team that brings a winning streak to an end -- especially one that has lasted for 151 games. From 1992-2004 the De La Salle High School Spartans won every football game they played under the tutelage of Coach Bob Ladouceur (Jim Caviezel) and his assistant Terry Eidson (Michael Chiklis). Ladourceur’s record still stands as the all-time winning coach in California’s high school football arena. Those are stats that could easily go to one’s head. Yet when one team member announces he would rather die on the field than let his team down, Coach Ladourceur’s says the better choice might be collapse on the field -- since it is only high school football. To his credit, Bob is man who is more interested in teaching boys to be honorable and accountable men than bringing home trophies. However, after his team secures their 12th season championship, Bob suffers a heart attack brought on in part by smoking. Five stints later he is under doctor’s orders to take a break from his coaching responsibilities. It is devastating news to Bob’s son Danny (Matthew Daddario) who is heading into his senior year on the football field and wants his dad there to coach him. Bob’s wife Bev (Laura Dern), on the other hand, is ready to have her husband off the gridiron and home spending time with her and their other children. For the first 45 minutes of this biographical movie, the script bobbles around setting up scenes, introducing several story lines and marching out a whole squad of characters before it finally gets to game time. If you can be patient, the rest of the film is remarkably inspiring. That first loss is devastating -- for the team and for their fans as well. Unfortunately it brings out the ugly in a lot of them, including one father who takes the loss as a personal affront to him. Still Bob, who also teaches at the private Catholic school, appears unscathed. When his team fumbles to a second loss, he takes the opportunity to help the players put it in perspective before they face off against the number one team in the country. From a statistical perspective, Bob’s career record (399-25-3 at his retirement in 2013) is extraordinary by any measure. Yet what is even more impressive is his leadership as members of his team face the death of one of their own, deal with an abusive parent and learn to share their emotions. Bob is a man who expects not a perfect performance, but a perfect effort. He is a man who asks his players to make commitments to improve and then holds them responsible. He is a man who does more than coach football. He builds boys into a band of brothers.
What Parents need to know about If I Stay...
Violence: Characters are killed in a car crash. Some blood and injuries portrayed. A girl screams and lashes out after she learns of the death of a loved one. Sexual Content: A teen couple kisses frequently. A girl asks that they go slow and later admits she has not had sex before. The couple is seen undressing one another and tight shots show some brief depictions of bare shoulders while making love. The couple is shown in bed together after having sex on another occasion. A woman asks a man to autograph her partially exposed breast. Language: The script contains numerous uses of scatological slang, course language, mild and moderate profanities, terms of Deity and some vulgar expressions and slurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters make references to illegal drugs. Underage teen characters drink on several occasions including in a bar, at a home party and in social settings. A man is shown with a pipe in his mouth.
What Parents need to know about When the Game Stands Tall...
Violence: A character is targeted and shot to death at close range. A father yells at and pushes his son around. Some on-field sports violence is shown. Sexual Content: Brief kissing and embracing is shown. Language: The script contains only a handful of profanities. Alcohol / Drug Use: A man smokes on a couple of occasions. Characters are shown at a house party. Montgomery Parents I September 2014
88
www.montgomeryparents.com
Here, the line
leaders of
today grow into the world leaders of
tomorrow.
F O R
MA T
I V E
From the very beginning we provide a foundation for success that is without parallel. And since , thousands of graduates have proudly transitioned into positions of responsibility in the region, state, nation and world. To learn more about the truly distinctive character of The Montgomery Academy, contact Susannah Cleveland, Director of Admissions, --.
Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y T h e
P u r s u i t
o f
E x c e l l e n c e
admissions@montgomeryacademy.org | montgomeryacademy. org Financial Aid Available
ma05-25166-MGM Acad-parents Feb13.indd 1
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.
1/11/13 3:25 PM