River Region Parents June 2022 - Newcomers Edition by KeepSharing

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You Hold The Key To Protect With 3! Tdap

HPV

MCV4

As parents, it is up to you to ensure your children remain up to date with their vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) recommend the following vaccines for adolescents: • Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis • Human papillomavirus • Meningococcal disease • Influenza

Protect your children against vaccine preventable diseases. Vaccine:

7-10 Years

11-12 Years

13-18 Years

Tdap

Childhood Catch-up

Recommended

Catch-up

HPV

>9 Years

Recommended

Catch-up

MCV4

High Risk

Recommended

Flu

Recommended

For more information, please visit alabamapublichealth.gov/imm

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Frazer Church is a place for every generation to connect and thrive through the

Summer Season. Learn more at WWW.FRAZER.CHURCH.

Sunday Schedule Traditional Worship 8:30AM Discipleship Hour 9:45AM Contemporary Worship 11:00AM JUNE

3 JUNE

4 JUNE

Grandparenting With a Plan Seminar Parenting With a Plan Seminar “Then Sings My Soul” Summer Choir Concert

JULY

13-15 July Jam for Kids Summer Teaching Series Did you know that God has always desired to dwell together with His people? Learn more through our Sunday moring sermon series, “God’s House,” as well as our Wednesday night study “The Seven Houses of God.”

Summer at Frazer 3

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J for patient care that requires less patience. In order to be truly helpful to you, healthcare has to be convenient and accessible. That’s why, at Jackson Hospital and Clinic, we offer services designed around your life. Like one-number scheduling for all of our primary care offices, telehealth appointments and JacksonCONNECT, which lets you access your health history, test results and much more anytime. Plus, as we continue

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to add more primary care locations, getting the care you need will just keep getting easier.

YOUR HOME FOR HEALTH

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River Region Parents I June 2022

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June2022 46

Volume 27 Number 6

Columns 6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Kids Say the Wisest Things

Give the Slide the Slip Fun ways to engage kids’ minds during the summer.

2022 2021

Finding Your Crew

The importance of connecting with other adults and how to start.

Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

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

42 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis

44 Teens, Tweens & Screens by Kristi Bush, LSW

48 Dinner’s Ready by Kimberley Carter Spivey

Newcomers Guide

Our top picks to help your family connect with the community.

Before They Head to College This Fall

10 things your child needs to know.

Departments 12 Teacher of the Month

On The Cover Anthony and D’Tanja Brock are pictured with daughters, Noah (17) and Jonah (12). Both girls attend Trinity Presbyterian School. Anthony is the Co-Founder and Head of School at Montgomery’s Valiant Cross Academy and D’Tanja works for the State Department of Health. The Brock family calls the River Region “a gem”. They enjoy the area’s energy and collaboration around art and technology, and also love to see Montgomery’s history embraced by people from all over the world. The Brocks are pictured at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival.

16 School Bits 72 Family Calendar 75 Movie Reviews 76 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote

Parents

Happy Summer! Another school year is in the “books” and now many of us can take a little time to relax and reset. For others, however, summer is anything but relaxing as they pack boxes, load up trucks and relocate to a new city. With that in mind, we publish our Annual Newcomer’s Guide each June to help new families connect better to all that the River Region has to offer! In our guide, you’ll find details on Where to Eat, Where to Grow, Where to Learn and Where to Play. Discover pediatricians and dentists, childcares and schools, plus parks, attractions and annual not-to-miss events in the area. So we’ve got you covered from “business” to “pleasure” as your family settles in and gets to know our community! An important part of settling in is finding a group of friends (or even acquaintances) with like-minded passions or hobbies. In Finding Your Crew, Sarah Lyons encourages stepping out of your comfort zone to begin making those connections. She advises being open and accepting, looking for common interests, giving support and also asking for the support you need. Authentic relationships are formed organically when we are authentic and real with each other. These are the friendships that bless our lives tremendously and that often last a lifetime, no matter where we live. If you are native to the River Region or have lived here for many years, let this be the summer you reach out to a new family and invite them to dinner or even out to a local event. You’ll be giving (and receiving) the gift of friendship while introducing them to all the family fun our community offers, especially during the summer months! Check out this month’s Bits and Pieces, Family Calendar and list of Independence Day celebrations to get ideas for that first outing together! Let’s put away the backpacks and lunch boxes, turn off the alarm clocks and get ready to enjoy the lazy, outdoor summer nights with family and friends, new and old!

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

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

Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Kristi Bush, LSW Richard Dennis Tanni Haas, Ph.D. Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Sarah Lyons Kerrie McLoughlin Dr. Ann Roy Moore Kimberley Carter Spivey Cover Photography Judy Barranco www.judybarrancophotography.com

Publisher Jason Watson jason@riverregionparents.com

Advertising Department (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 adservices@keepsharing.com Digital Manager Scott Davis

DeAnne

Ad Design Tim Welch

deanne@riverregionparents.com Member

River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2022 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in River Region Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

River Region Parents I June 2022

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Congratulations Class of 2022

rinciple d signifigazine is process.

g LLC, nts is ction in ssed in necesement

Anna Dickson Beck

Drew Bray

Ali Churchwell

Hendley Culpepper

Tyler Daniels

Khamani Driver

Braxton Hagood

McKinnon Hammonds

Kris Jackson

Gavin Justice

Abby Ledlow

Rachel Major

Trey Matthews

Gabby McDowell

Garrison Miller

Jay Moore

Luke Noffsinger

Maurice Poole

JP Pugh

Bryant Rascoll

Maddie Ross

Savannah Sharpe

Parker Strickland

Abby Vinson

Teron Wright

Macon East Academy is proud to recognize the graduating Class of 2022. The 25-member class earned approximately $3 million in merit-based and athletic scholarships. Members of the Class of 2022 were accepted to a total of 72 colleges and universities. In their senior year, the Class of 2022 led the athletics program to a State Championship in baseball. Six members of this year’s class have signed athletic scholarships to participate at the collegiate level. Each graduate is representative of the high standards of academic achievement, student life, and Christian values that are the foundation of Macon East Academy. We are proud of these graduates and ready to see them lead the way.

Macon East acadEMy Knights

15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566

Located only a few minutes east of Chantilly Parkway, serving the Pike Road and surrounding communities 7

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with nicer cars.” Teach your child to recognize the facts of the situation instead of their judgements or interpretations of the situation. Practice this several times a day. Please do not attempt to do this when they are overly emotional. Do it when they are calm. Ask simple questions like, “What do you see, what do you hear, what do you feel?” Redirect their answers to the facts. by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Teach Them to... PAUSE Can you control your thoughts, feelings, and emotions? If you answered “yes”, think again. Adult thoughts, feelings, and emotions come and go as quickly as children when it is time to do chores. We have no control over them. The only thing we can control is our response. Appropriate responses are created when we learn to pause. Learning to pause is a multilayered process that requires you to understand more about how the brain works. Our brains never stop talking to us. Some of the statements made by your brain are helpful, “Watch out for that car, that driver is texting” or “You were very rude to that clerk and need to apologize.” Some thoughts are simply untrue, “My son hates math, so he is never going to be able to keep a job” or “She made a rude gesture towards me in the meeting. She obviously does not like me.” Like I said earlier, our brains never stop gathering information and attempting to make sense of it. When we draw conclusions, our brain provides options on how to interpret this information. Unfortunately,

River Region Parents I June 2022

we often draw the wrong conclusions and react before we realize that the story our brain tells us is a lie. These stories are the real problem, not the thoughts, feelings, and emotions that led to the creation of the story. Unfortunately, children do not yet know how to pause and evaluate the accuracy of the stories their brains are telling them. This is why we see huge emotional reactions when we say “no” to the second cookie. Your daughter’s brain may be telling her, “You will never be able to eat another cookie.” If your child cries every time you tell him a problem is incorrect on his math homework, his brain may be screaming, “I am so dumb, I can’t even do math.” How do we teach them to pause? 1. Start by practicing mindfulness with your child. No, you are not sitting cross-legged on the floor chanting with your children. Mindfulness is the habit of experiencing the present moment without judgement. For example, make statements like, “I am driving in a car” instead of “I am driving in an old car around other people

2. Begin using story language. Teach them to say, “My brain is telling me…” Use this language and model it regularly. “My brain is telling me that you had a horrible day at school because you are not happy this afternoon. Is that true?” Then, believe the given answer. 3. Model this story language for them. Tell them stories every day about what your brain was telling you during a situation and then contrast that with the truth of the situation. 4. Create time for these practices. Leave time in your schedule to have these conversations with yourself and your child. Yes, it is that important. Once your children begin to understand that they do not need to believe everything their brain is saying, they will begin to pause.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

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The Marvelous Wonderettes

Alex City Jazz Fest June 10 and 11 * 6 pm to 10:30pm The Alexander City Jazz Fest’s Friday night show will be at Strand Park in Alex City. The Saturday night show will take place at The AMP on Lake Martin. This is a free event! Visit theamponlakemartin.com/events.html for all the details.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Through June 26 Festival Stage | 2 Hours Recommended Ages 13+ This smash OffBroadway hit takes us to the 1958 Springfield High School prom, where we meet and learn about the lives and loves of Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy, and Suzy: four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts. When the Wonderettes reunite to perform at their 10-year reunion, we learn about the highs and lows the girls have experienced in the past decade and are charmed to find that no matter what life throws their way, they will conquer it together. Featuring more than 30 classic 50s and 60s hits, including “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.” Visit www.asf.net for tickets.

Juneteenth 2022

Sunday, June 19 * 10am to 2 pm With the Art Museum and Blount Cultural Park as our backdrop, this Juneteenth we’ll celebrate African American artistic traditions from Jazz and Soul to sculpture and images from as far back as the 1860s to as recently as 2019! Join us inside for this celebration of freedom centered on culture, creativity, and community. After enjoying the events in Blount Cultural Park, head downtown for the Rosa Parks Museum’s Annual Juneteenth Celebration from 11 AM to 6 PM and then over to the Riverwalk Amphitheater from 4 to 9 PM where the City of Montgomery Department of Cultural Affairs will round out celebrations with an event honoring Global African Diaspora Heritage Day. Visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

The Fairy and the Lumberjack

Kayak Trail Fun Run Saturday, June 4 Come take an exciting ride down the Autauga Creek. Lots of beautiful sites, bamboo, waterfalls and beautiful foliage. You must provide your own equipment, (canoe, kayak, paddleboard, life jackets, sunglasses, drinking water, sunblock etc.). No glass or alcoholic beverages allowed. A bus will be waiting to shuttle you back (no charge) to the starting point. The last shuttle will leave the creek walk area at 9:45am. Creek Walk is behind City Hall in Prattville, AL. Visit www.prattvilleal.gov/.

River Region Parents I June 2022

Pike Road Theatre Co. Presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.

Friday, June 10 * 6-8pm Troy University’s Davis Theatre

The Fairy and the Lumberjack is one of the most popular of all Korean folktales. Traditional dance, choreographed by Ms. Sudha Raghura, a native Indian dancer and Alabama screenwriter and director, Angela Dickson, have woven cultures together to produce a tragic love story. Presented by A-KEEP, a non-profit that serves as a bridge for unity between the Alabama and Korean cultures and languages. Tickets · $12.50 www.eventbrite.com/e/the-fairy-and-thelumberjack-tickets-277167835457

June 17 and 18 Pike Road Intermediate School The Little Mermaid Jr. showcases the talents of 45 kids participating in the Youth Production Camp with the Pike Road Theatre Company. Making her PRTC directorial debut is award winning director, Kim Hutchens from Birmingham, AL. This classic Disney title contains all of the songs from the Academy Award® winning animated feature film as well as three new songs from the Broadway show. PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE June 17th-June 18th, 7:30 PM Tickets are $12 with group rates available and can be purchased at www.pikeroadtheatrecompany.org or eventbrite.com. www.riverregionparents.com

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Biscuits Baseball Family Faith Night

Friday, June 10 * 6:35 pm * Riverwalk Stadium Enjoy fellowship as groups from churches all across the River Region join us for a night of faith-based music and games! Visit www.milb.com for more info.

Military Appreciation Days at the Zoo

June 14-16 at the Montgomery Zoo The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum invites all active duty and retired military personnel to visit the Zoo for free on Military Appreciation Days, June 14-16. Maxwell Air Force Base, the Zoo, the Montgomery Chamber, and local sponsors partner to hold this annual event that recognizes our national heroes. For more information, call (334) 625-4900.

Montgomery R&B Blues Picnic

Sunday, June 12 11 am until midnight In the heart of the city at River Walk Amphitheater, featuring: R&B and Blues music from the 80’s to the new millennium, Games, Family Fun (All ages event), Tasty Food, Yoga Sessions. You can bring your cooler ($35 fee), blanket, lawn chair, and umbrella. Visit www. rnbbluespicnic.com for details.

Eastchase Farmers Market

Creekwalk Concert in Prattville

2nd and 4th Tuesday, June and July Beginning June 14 * 6:30 pm Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a free concert by the beautiful Autauga Creek at Heritage Park. Creekwalk Concerts will be held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of June and July and will feature local and regional bands. For information, call (334) 595-0850.

7 a.m.-noon * Saturdays through September More than 40 vendors featuring homemade breads, jams, baked goods, Wagyu beef, local honey and more! Visit theshoppesateastchase.com or follow The Shoppes on FB and Instagram.

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Aaron Franks McKee Middle School

Educate, Empower and Expose our future leaders. He elaborates, “I desire to develop skills and attributes in a child to assist them as they transition into adulthood. A proper education empowers a child to be the navigator in a sea of possibilities. Exposure allows the child to broaden the range of possibilities for success rather than ascribe to the limited range of outcomes proposed by one’s academic achievement only.” With his powerful beliefs and dedication to his craft, Mr. Frank’s desire is for all stakeholders involved in the educational process, particularly parents, teachers, and administrators, to understand how valuable educating our youth truly is. He shares, “Providing resources, time, effort, and energy to the educational process of our children is often deployed from a reactionary position rather than a preemptive one. There is an urgency that is lacking. And far too many children are not receiving the proper educational tools, skills, and information that would translate into them being capable of thriving in a diverse and evolving society/world.”

McKee Middle School boasts many wonderful teachers and this month we honor one of its finest, Aaron Franks. For 13 years, Mr. Franks has empowered young minds ranging from grades seven through nine, currently teaching 7th-grade Geography and Civics. He shares his inspiration, “The middle school years are the most impressionable years for most pupils, particularly African American males. These years require intense attention to detail and guidance.” Mr. Franks is a graduate of Auburn University at Montgomery (Secondary Education Social Science) and the University of West Alabama (Master’s of Social Science). Currently, he’s in a Master’s Administration program. Being a teacher aligns with Mr. Franks purpose. He never considered teaching a job, but a spiritual responsibility and esteemed profession. In his role, he values the responsibility of being a part of providing guidance, direction, and truth to youth. The passion that Mr. Franks exudes flows from his belief that teaching is God’s work, and molding the minds and perspectives of adolescents should not be taken lightly. Since the beginning of his teaching career, Mr. Franks has maintained three consistent goals:

Aaron Franks is from Mobile, Alabama. He is happily married to Alexis Franks, who is also from Mobile. They have been married for eight years and have a two-year-old daughter, Amina.

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Thank You, Montgomery A lot has changed at Montgomery Public Schools since I first joined the system as interim superintendent in 2017. MPS was under state intervention amid questions about finances, academics and more. There were concerns about accreditation, and the system had been woefully underfunded for decades. Things are looking different now. MPS was officially released from intervention in December 2021. Back in November 2020, Montgomery residents overwhelmingly voted to increase local funding. And not only was MPS restored to full accreditation status, international accreditation firm Cognia spotlighted its turnaround as a model of school improvement. Now, I’m not going to claim that I solved every problem, and I’m certainly

not going to say that I made any of the improvements on my own. I will say that I am proud of the progress the system has made and I’m grateful for all the support we have received. I’m also excited for the future of MPS. Our Capital Improvement Plan is well underway with a wide range of projects on the horizon. This is important to me because one of my first impressions of MPS was of the disrepair of so many of its school buildings. The learning environment contributes so much to a student’s ability to excel. We want all our scholars in clean, safe, welcoming buildings. One of the greatest challenges during my time here has been the COVID-19 pandemic and how it has affected students. I believe students simply learn better in a face-to-face environment, but I also believe the safety and health of students and staff are top priorities for a school system. Like systems around the nation, we had to make difficult decisions. One way we were able to mitigate learning gaps caused by COVID interrup-

tions last year was with our Launch into Learning summer program. While most years MPS has about 1,500 students in summer school, last year the system had more than 12,000 take part in summer learning and enrichment. As I said earlier, I couldn’t possibly claim to have done any of this on my own, and one group I especially want to thank is the families of Montgomery County. It has been an honor to serve as superintendent here and to help educate, engage and inspire the next generation. I know I am leaving the system in capable hands, and I have no doubt that MPS and the entire Montgomery community will continue to move forward, together.

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

Passion for Women’s Health Established in 1991, OB-GYN Associates of Montgomery provides comprehensive obstetrics and gynecologic services. The practice also offers gynecological surgical services and the most innovative up-to-date Robotic Davinci Surgeries. The OB-GYN team of physicians, midwives, and nurse practitioners strive to provide excellence in women’s healthcare and are welcoming new patients.

S E RV I C E S O F F E R E D : Gynecology • Obstetrics • Nurse Midwifery

Urodynamics

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PTNS (Percutaneous Posterior Nerve Stimulation) A low risk, non-surgical treatment for overactive bladder and similar symptoms.

Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation A treatment of bladder, bowel, and pelvic pain disorders.

(New) Mona Lisa Touch Laser A novel laser therapy for vaginal health that can be “life changing”

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W W W. O B G Y N M O N T G O M E R Y. C O M River Region Parents I June 2022

Gregory Waller M.D. Allen Dupre M.D. Keith Martin M.D. Joseph Desautels M.D. Matthew Phillips M.D. Benjamin Griggs M.D. Paula Sullivan D.O. Dana Moorer CNM Charla Smith CNM Hayley Carnes CNM Della Fuller CRNP Brittney Mount CRNP Tracey Mendelsohn CRNP Michelle Aplin CRNP Terri Singletary CRNP Fran Rutledge CRNP www.riverregionparents.com

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Montgomery County Schools ECA Students Chosen for the AISA All Star Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball Teams

Montgomery Academy AP Government Class visits Johnson U.S. Courthouse Montgomery Academy Upper School History teacher Dr. Scott Morris took his AP US Government class to the Frank M. Johnson U.S. Courthouse to attend a sentencing hearing and to talk with Judge Austin Huffaker about judicial practices, including appointment, following precedent, and due process. Thank you to Judge Huffaker for being such a gracious host, and to Dr. Morris for creating an opportunity and space for this first-hand experience for his students.

Six students from Evangel Christian Academy recently made the AISA All Star Basketball Team. Zaria Johnson, Karley Blankenship, and Kysha McNeely were chosen to play on the Girls’ East All Star team. Kennedy Holland, Jeremiah Maldon-Williams, and Jhamari Giles were selected to play of the AISA East All Star Boys’ team. Both the girls and boys selected were chosen from among all of the senior basketball players in the AISA. Only 30 girls and 30 boys made the All Star teams. For ECA to have three girls and three boys chosen was an outstanding accomplishment. The game was played at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama.

Saint James Students Win Big at Statewide Mathematics Competition Several Saint James students and their teacher, Mrs. Priscilla Hadden travelled to compete in the second round of the Alabama Statewide Mathematics Competition which was held on the campus of University of North Alabama. The first round was a written exam round. Saint James School received the results in March and were notified those students competing received first place awards in Division Two, District Six for Comprehensive Mathematics (students in Pre-Calculus or above) and Algebra II. Further, Jason Jeong received a second-place individual award on the written comprehensive exam. Woochan Kim received a first-place individual award on the written Algebra II exam. Then, students that took the comprehensive mathematics exam were invited to participate in round two which was a ciphering round. Jason Jeong, Justin Kang, Kelsey Shaffer, and Selina Sun took part in the tournament on April 9 and placed first in the ciphering round for all of Division Two. River Region Parents I June 2022

Trinity Congratulates Co-Recipient of the Jimmy Hitchcock Female Award Mary Alice is a senior at Trinity Presbyterian School where she has lettered as a varsity athlete in Volleyball, Basketball, and Soccer. She was named 3A area all- tournament team and Jack Sweer’s All -Tournament team in basketball. She has helped lead her Volleyball team to state championships in 2020 and 2021 and Soccer teams to state championships in 2018 and 2021. Her Soccer team will be competing for another state title in May. Mary Alice serves as the schools SGA vice president. She is a member of the National Honor Society, French Honor Society, Interact club, Middle School girl’s bible study leader, Show Choir, Trinity School Ambassador, and the FCA leadership team. Mary Alice has been a part of the Headmaster’s list every semester since the 9th grade earning a 94.5 or greater GPA. She will graduate from Trinity with an overall GPA of 4.22. She is a member of First Baptist Church Montgomery where she serves as the youth choir chaplain,VBS volunteer, Missions Montgomery volunteer. Mary Alice was awarded the “Giving Tree Award” at JH Ranch for her Christian leadership. Mary Alice is the 9th female from Trinity to receive the prestigious Hitchcock Award. www.riverregionparents.com

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Montgomery County Schools BrewTech Student Named Presidential Scholar

Recent Brewbaker Technology Magnet High graduate Hailey Mullins has been named a U.S. Presidential Scholar. She is one of only three students in Alabama to receive this distinction. The U.S. Department of Education chooses up to 161 Presidential Scholars nationwide each year. Being named a U.S. Presidential Scholar is one of the nation’s highest honors for a high school student. Hailey is in the Medical Academy at BrewTech and plans to pursue a medical degree.

Macon East Student Recognized by Mayor Reed

Congratulations to Teron Wright who was recently recognized by Mayor Steven L. Reed and the Montgomery City Council for his academic excellence! Way to go Teron!

River Region Parents I June 2022

Four Local Students Earn Memory Master Award Four students from the homeschool community, Classical Conversations Taylor Road, recently finished months of study by correctly reciting over 400 facts from a variety of subjects as part of the Classical Conversations Memory Master program. The students ranging in age from nine to twelve years old earned the Memory Master award in April, when each child spent approximately five hours total recalling facts from six subjects, as well as a history timeline. Besides a chronological timeline of 160 events and people, the students had other subjects of study such as; history, 24 facts about ancient world history; over 120 ancient world geographic features including ancient historical empires, major rivers and mountain ranges; Science, including facts about biology and Earth science; Latin noun declensions; English grammar facts including prepositions and verbs; Math, including multiplication facts to the 15’s, common squares and cubes, basic geometry formulas, and unit conversions; and reciting all 46 US presidents. “Memory Master takes serious effort and practice on the part of the students,” says Amanda Nyberg, director of Classical Conversations Taylor Road campus. “The goal is mastery, which is committing the information to long term memory. There are four oral tests given over a period of 3 to 4 weeks. The last two tests require the student to exhibit 100 percent accuracy in order to receive the title Memory Master. Not only is it exciting to see these students achieve this goal they set for themselves, it is encouraging to see their determination and persistence throughout the process.” The students are pictured from left to right: Anna Wages, Paizlee Wages, Abigail Lysaght, and Tyler Nyberg.

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Saint James Student Athletes Sign Sports Scholarships On April 22, three Saint James student-athletes signed letters of intent to play sports at the collegiate level on athletic scholarships. Two-sport athlete Danielle Greene signed to play volleyball at Birmingham-Southern. Danielle played both volleyball and basketball for the Trojans. In volleyball, she helped her team return to the state playoffs in 6A this year. In basketball, was an integral part of the team that made it to the state finals. Jonathan Harris signed on to play football at Tuskegee University. Jonathan is also a two-sport athlete at Saint James. In football, he has been a starter for the past three years. In track and field, he runs the 4x100, 100-meter dash, and 200-meter dash. Bradley Thomas will continue his athletic career in football at Alabama State University. Bradley has played both sides of the ball for the Trojans and has been a starter for two years. Bradley has also been a team leader of the Trojan basketball team. He has been named to the All-State team and led his team to the Final Four this year. Bradley is also a 1000-point player. All three of these student-athletes were recognized at a signing ceremony on the Saint James campus in front of family, friends, and the high school student body.

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Garrett Elementary Dancers Perform for Teacher Appreciation Day!

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Students danced for a teacher’s luncheon at Garrett Elementary in May. The girls also went out and asked the teachers to come up to participate in a fun YMCA dance! Tonya Speed goes to Garrett Elementary each week to teach ballet, jazz and tap.

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ARTWORKS INTERACTIVE GALLERY

Now reopened—ArtWorks is an engaging gallery for all ages, where visitors can connect with art through interactive elements or enjoy the spaces set aside for quiet reading and imaginative play! Learn more and plan your visit at mmfa.org. Blount Cultural Park One Muesum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117

Open Tuesday–Sunday Free Entry + Parking mmfa.org | @MontgomeryMFA

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Montgomery County Schools Halcyon Hosts Fifth-Grade Pitch Competition

Saint James Students Participate in YMCA’s Youth In City

On April 13, several Saint James students participated in the YMCA’s Youth in City, a division of YMCA’s Youth in Government. Saint James junior Anna Dickey was sworn in as youth mayor by Montgomery Probate Judge JC Love. Brooke Bender and Austin Oh served as city council members, and AJ Kavlick had an ordinance passed unanimously. Students who participated in the day’s events were seniors Anna Fett, Ellen Lane, Caroline Yancy, and Jake Yohn; juniors Brooke Bender and Anna Dickey; and sophomores AJ Kavlick and Austin Oh.

Halcyon Elementary played host to the first-ever FifthGrade Pitch Competition in partnership with MGMWERX and Alabama Power. The winners were the “Halcyon Coding Corporation,” which won a $5,000 donation to complete their robotics program upgrade project. Each student also received a Quest 2 Oculus headset. The title of the competition was “If It Is To Be...It Begins with Me!” and involved 12 students from Halcyon’s fifth-grade class along with a teacher-facilitator. The winning facilitator was technology teacher Christopher Tsuing. All participating students received a medal and certificate of appreciation. Another team, the Environmental Friendly Action Plan Club, so impressed the judges that MGMWERX, through Alabama Power, awarded the team $5,000 on the spot. Those students also received Quest 2 Oculus headsets. A total of $10,000 was awarded to the school! Principal Shannon Schmidt is pictured with MGMWERX Director Trent H. Edwards.

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Eastwood Christian Students Compete In AISA State Art Show The Alabama Independent School Association State Art Show was held Tuesday, May 10, at Faulkner University. All 1st place District winners were invited to compete in most age groups, and 1st and 2nd places could compete in 10th-12th grades. Eastwood Christian School had a record number of 17 pieces in the show! Congratulations to our two ECS 2022 AISA State Art Show winners: Florence Cook, 1st place, painting, K-1st grade, and Liv Menza, 2nd place, color drawing, K-1st grade.

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Macon East Coach Shares Native American Traditions Coach Tim Davenport enjoyed sharing some of his family’s Native American traditions to the Macon East lower school. He brought a talking stick, medicine pouches, clothing, jewelry, a turban that the chief would wear, and dream catchers to show them. The students really enjoyed the hands-on learning and personal stories about his family.

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Montgomery County Schools NASA’s Destination Station Visits T.S. Morris Elementary NASA landed at T.S. Morris Elementary with its Destination Station learning center, teaching students all about space travel. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell and her office made the visit possible. Students learned about the International Space Station, including the robotics that astronauts use and the food they eat. They even got to see one of the only moon rocks available to the public. NASA scientists were on hand at the event, which was a way to introduce students to STEM studies.

ECA Students Place at District Art Show Several students from Evangel Christian Academy recently won awards at the AISA District 5 Art Show. The district event was held at Eastwood Christian School in Montgomery, Alabama. Kennedy Softley and Riley Jones both won first place. Second place winners were Reese Anderson, Deonna Arnold, Julia Jennings, and Blake Softley. Reese Anderson, Layla Johnson, Jonas Brown, and Lillie Rose Parrish all won third place. The first place winners will advance to the AISA State Art Show.

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Montgomery Academy Art Students Sketch Sketchbooks are an integral part of each art class beginning in the second grade. In September, fifth-grade students were starting “Pet in My Yard,” an oil pastel drawing of their pet. At the beginning of the assignment, Erika Tracy brought a service dog, Frog, to pose for the students. Working in their sketchbooks, they made sketches of Frog in several different poses. This was the first time the students drew from life. Usually, the sketchbook drawing is an object placed on a small sculpture box on their table; it does not move. Frog definitely did move.

MPS Students Receive PAF Scholarships Two MPS students were awarded scholarships from the Birmingham Chapter of the Professional Athletes Foundation. Kennedy Robinson, a senior at Brewbaker Technology Magnet High and Nicholas Harris, a senior at LAMP High, were both awarded a $2,500 scholarship from the organization. The PAF Chapter Student Scholarship is designed to reward high school athletes for their non-athletic achievements and assist them in achieving their academic career goals.

Montgomery Christian Hosts Art and Music Festival On May 5th, Montgomery Christian School students had their Spring Art and Music Festival. Trinity Presbyterian Church was the gracious host of this event. All students had an art piece in the art show and performed songs with their class. The fourth and fifth grade classes played the hand chimes as well. This festival highlighted the many talents of MCS students.

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Montgomery County Schools Saint James Performing Arts Performs Godspell

During the weekend of April 21-24, the Saint James School performing arts department performed its spring musical, Godspell. Students from all three divisions, elementary through high school, were a part of this incredible musical. The show was the vision of creative director, Lonny Harrison, with the help of Kristy Meanor and Adrian Bush. Godspell, the hit musical which premiered off-Broadway in 1971, was written by Stephen Schwartz, the Grammy winning composer of Wicked. This musical follows the gospel of Matthew. The Saint James production starred senior Paul Kreischer as Jesus and Hamilton Cunningham as Judas. The more modern-day re-telling of the story and parables of Jesus included a cast and crew from grades 2-12. The student cast also included Ruthie Blakeney, Anna Colson, Mary Ann Coon, Emily Headley, Jack McGraw, Morgan Montgomery, Jalen Trammer Lizzy Dickens, Jimmie Thompson, Abigail Roark, Caleb Hendrick, Alzareiah Stewart, Rose Statam. The Saint James elementary choir, The Rising Stars, also had parts in show. The show was a delight for audiences each show.

Trinity Girls Soccer Team Win State

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Trinity Girls Soccer team is the 1A-3A Girls State Champions, winning back to back titles! MVP is Katherine Warren.

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Isabella Dennison of Booker T. Washington Magnet High was the winner of U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell’s 2022 Congressional Art Competition. Her winning piece, “Legacy,” will be framed and displayed in the U.S. Capitol along with other winners from around the nation.

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GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME Trinity Celebrates Student’s Appointment to West Point Trinity was honored to host a ceremony celebrating Beck Tuley’s appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. Joan Cox, the service Academy Coordinator and Office Manager for representative Barry Moore, presented Tuley with the Certificate of Appointment. The senior class, family, and special guests were in attendance. Tuley has been a student at Trinity since kindergarten and has been a member of the track team, the swim team, and the soccer team. He has well over a 4.0 gpa and has taken seven AP classes and multiple honors classes. In his address to the audience, Tuley said, “I am honored to have received an appointment to West Point and I know I could not have done this by myself. I want to attend West Point to repay the sacrifices of those who came before me and to carry on their legacy of defending our country and safeguarding our freedom. Thank you to the Trinity Family for the opportunities, the support, and for being like a second family to me.” Tuley will begin his training this summer.

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Montgomery County Schools Eastwood Christian Kindergarten Goes “Around the World” The Eastwood Christian School kindergarten class performed a musical program, “Around the World,” for family and friends. Students dressed in colorful costumes, sang songs, and danced to demonstrate and celebrate what they learned through their study of countries and customs around the world.

BrewTech Teams Compete at VEX Worlds Tournament Two Brewbaker Technology Magnet High robotics teams competed at the 2022 VEX Robotics World Championship in Dallas, Texas. There were over 810 robots and 20,000 students and parents attending the event from around the world. BrewTech’s two teams competing were 4828-W, featuring Travis Karvwnaris; Braden Chambless; Ashley Tiblier; and Robert Parker; and team 4828-S with Mason Hatch; Jacob Young; Aiden Gutierrez; and Marcus Causey. Out of 83 robots in each of their division, 4828-W ranked 43rd, and 4828-S ranked 63 out of 81 robots in their division.

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Montgomery Catholic Sends Teams to Robotics World Championships Montgomery Catholic was blessed to have 2 teams make it to the 2022 VEX Robotics World Championships in Dallas, TX this year. These students have been incredibly driven, spending countless hours perfecting their robot’s design and programming to compete on the world stage. Through hard work and prayers before every match, the Middle School team went 9-1 in qualifying and made it to the round of 16. Our Middle School team consists of Gavin Cummins, Bennett Webb, Tye Rountree, Lucy Logsdon, Erik Ojala, and Will Tarkowski. The High School team finished the tournament 25th out of 81 teams and consisted of Turner Clements and Hunter Dailey.

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Montgomery County Schools Saint James Students Place in AISA State Technology Fair Saint James School students from middle and high school participated in the 2022 AISA State Technology Fair at Troy University at Montgomery. These students competed earlier in the year in the ACTE (Alabama Consortium of Technology in Education) Region 5 competition. In Individual Programming, Paul Kreischer placed 1st and Jaeah “Jake” Lee placed 2nd.In Multimedia, Selina Sun won 2nd place. As a team in the Senior High Division, Emerson Hagen, Junseo Oh, Paul Kreischer, Jaeah “Jake” Lee, and Selina Sun won the 2nd place team award. Emily Trock placed 1st in Level I Digital Video, and Aidan Saldanha placed 2nd in Level II Digital Video. Saint James School offers technology classes at all division levels.

Montgomery Academy Fourth Graders Celebrate Pi Day Montgomery Academy Fourth Graders got to play with Pi! No, not p-i-e, but “Pi!” Pi Day was celebrated in Mrs. Kranzusch’s class with friendly competition as students worked in teams to measure the circumference and diameter of any and all common classroom objects to find Pi a total of ten times. Accurate measurements, astute recording, and teamwork were the keys to a fun Pi Day!

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Trinity’s K4 Classes Host Muffins for Moms Trinity K4 classes had a fabulous time hosting a Muffins for Mom morning. Each child introduced their mom and shared something special about her. They sang songs to their mothers to let them know how much they love them. They also shared 10 of the 27 Bible verses they have learned and recited the entire chapter of Psalm 100. They finished their time by singing silly songs that were written about each child.

Alabama Christian Academy Seniors Give Back The ACA senior class had their annual WeServe day and went to several different places for each member of the class to be able to participate. They all were dispersed to the Montgomery Area Council on Aging, EAT South and the Dalraida church of Christ Ukraine Missions warehouse. They were all able to help different people of different stages of neediness. Their eyes were opened to those less fortunate and those who are facing times of uncertainty. These seniors were happy to have the opportunity to step out of their world for a day and totally pout themselves into others. It truly is such a blessing to be able to give back to the community we live in.

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Montgomery County Schools Montgomery Christian Fifth Graders Attend Starbase Montgomery Christian School’s Fifth grade class spent the first week of May at Maxwell attending their Starbase program. This program gives students hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) experiences. They had the opportunity to launch rockets, “walk” on Mars, build and program robots, and so much more.

MPS Elementary Teachers Attend World Robotics Competition MPS elementary robotics teachers and District K-5 Science Education Specialist Shaniece Williams attended the VEX Robotics World Championship in Dallas, Texas. Schools from every country in the world were present with almost 30,000 students and teachers. The MPS robotics teachers who represented the district were from Highland Avenue, Wilson, Morris, and Johnson elementary schools.

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Macon East Hitchcock Award Representatives Seniors, Rachel Major (cheer) and Luke Noffsinger (baseball, football, and travel baseball) represented Macon East Academy at the 63rd annual Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award ceremony. Since 1959, the objective of the Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award program has been to recognize Christian leadership in athletics and to encourage and inspire others to emulate the man whose memory is perpetuated by this award. Each year coaches nominate senior athletes who have displayed the most outstanding qualities of Christian leadership in athletics and possesses the following qualities: strong character, dependability, 100% effort, team leadership, church leadership, school leadership, and scholastic leadership. 8th grade students who exhibit these same qualities are also invited to attend the annual banquet and be recognized. This year, Berkley Harris and Braiden Watkins represented Macon East Academy as 8th grade certificate winners. We are proud to have these athletes a part of our Knight family!

ACA Sends the K5 Class Off in Style! ACA Kindergarten graduation had a wonderful graduation May 13th, 2022. The ceremony was perfect and the graduates felt as special as they deserved. Since covid, the kindergarten teachers decided instead of a reception for the graduates, they would do a graduation parade. Well, even though the normal way of life is coming back around, the graduation parade stuck because of how special the kids felt. They each get their own moment praised by the whole lower school and are showered with love and a little present from their teacher! It truly is such a special time!

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YMCA of Greater Montgomery Jimmy Hitchcock Award Winners

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The YMCA of Greater Montgomery announces Judson Lindsey, Julienne Pharroms, and Mary Alice Sasser are the recipients of the 2022 Jimmy Hitchcock Award. A total of 40 high school seniors were nominated at an awards banquet held at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel Tuesday night. Judson Lindsey is a senior at The Montgomery Academy. He plays football, basketball, and baseball. In addition to his rigorous sports schedule, he is taking many AP and honors classes and has a 4.5 GPA. He regularly attends First United Methodist Church. Julienne Pharrams is a senior at Montgomery Catholic whose primary sports are volleyball and basketball. She is a member at New Beginnings Baptist Church in Phenix City. She has a 4.25 GPA and has taken every AP and Honors class available at Montgomery Catholic. Mary Alice Sasser is a senior at Trinity Presbyterian School. Sasser is a tri-sport athlete playing volleyball, basketball, and soccer. She is also a member of First Baptist Church. Outside of her many sports and church duties, she is also involved in many clubs at her school. She has a 4.22 GPA and is planning to major in Nutrition at Auburn University in the Fall. The Jimmy Hitchcock Committee honors young athletes for Christian leadership. Students are nominated by their coaches and administrators for setting a Christian example of moral fitness in their athletic development. The Jimmy Hitchcock Award is a program of the YMCA of Greater Montgomery. Hitchcock was the first All-American football player at Auburn University. Hitchcock played 3rd base for the baseball team and later signed with the New York Yankees. He also started little league baseball in Montgomery.

Trinity Baseball Team Wins State Trinity’s baseball team led by head Coach Jarrod Cook, defeated Peidmont to win the Class 3A State Baseball Championship! MVP went to senior Coleman Stanley.

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Saint James Art Students Place Well at D.O.O.T. Competition Saint James high school art students submitted pieces for the 2022 “Doing Our Own Thing” (DOOT) Competition. A number of these students placed in their specific categories. A reception and awards ceremony was held on Tuesday, April 12, at the Anita P. Folmar Gallery. Their artwork will hang in the Anita P. Folmar Gallery through April 29th. For Black & White Drawing, senior Aroa Jung received Honorable Mention. For Color Drawing, junior Natalie Magee won first place while sophomore Wendy Stombaugh received Honorable Mention. In Graphic Art/Digital Design, senior Dakota Alexander won 2nd place. Senior Jack Catchings received Honorable Mention in Color Photography. All of these students are a part of the high school art classes taught by Mrs. Evelyn Shoults.

Macon East Honors Lions Club Scholarship Recipient McKinnon Hammonds was honored at a luncheon recently where he received a scholarship from Montgomery Lions Club. He was chosen by his teachers and was in-terviewed by members of the Lions Club last month for the scholarship. He was one of seven chosen from Montgomery. Congratulations McKinnon!

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Pike Road Girl’s Golf Team Wins State Congratulations to the Pike Road Patriot Girl’s Golf Team for winning the AHSAA 4A-5A State Championship! Team Members include 8th Grader Beka Yang, Freshman Lauren Leonard, and Junior Yvette Gordon. Special thanks to Coach Ted White and assistant Coach Brooke Sansom for their dedication and leadership.

Macon East Inducts Students Into Mu Alpha Theta Congratulations to the high school students inducted into Macon East Academy’s chapter of the Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society: Jameson Byrom, Kaiden Byrom, Anna Watson, Tanner Surles, Barrett Spaeth, Dalton Nickles, Ethan Jones and Will Dekle. Mu Alpha Theta recognizes excellence in mathematics, and the MEA chapter is sponsored by Mrs. Melissa Baker.

PRS Celebrates Military Families During the month of April, we celebrated our military learners and their families. In addition to celebrating Month of the Military Child, all 4 schools in the Pike Road Schools District were awarded the “Purple Star School” designation for their efforts to assist military children with school transition and developing programs that recognize military service and civic responsibility.

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Andrea Maness Named Principal of PRHS Andrea Maness has been named principal of Pike Road High School. Ms. Maness comes to Pike Road from Carroll High School in Ozark, where she has been the principal for the last three years. Before becoming principal, she was a secondary math teacher for eleven years and assistant principal at Carroll High School for four years. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Comprehensive Mathematics Education from Troy State University in 2004, Masters of Science degree in Instructional Leadership and Administration from Troy University Dothan in 2014, an Educational Specialist degree in Instructional Leadership from the University of West Alabama in 2020, and is currently an Educational Doctorate candidate at the University of Alabama. Her area of research is Rural Education with a focus on Organizational Change and Leadership. During her tenure, Carroll High School became the first Cognia STEM-certified school in the state of Alabama, was named both a “School of Excellence” and a “School of Distinction” by A+ College Ready and was recently named a “Purple Heart School” recognizing efforts to support military students and families. Ms. Maness has been recognized for her leadership qualities by being named the 2021 AASSP District 2 Principal of the Year. She was later named a top-three finalist for Principal of the Year in Alabama. Ms. Maness is a native of Troy, AL. She is married to Allen Maness. Together, they have two children, Emma (3rd grade) and Sam (PreK). When their family is not participating in school activities, they enjoy spending time together playing outside or at a nearby fishing hole. When asked about her new position, Ms. Maness expressed excitement and a desire to immerse herself in the community and the Pike Road Way. Ms. Maness officially begins on June 1, but is already working on coordinating with school and district staff and planning for next school year.

Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary Awards Student Scholarships The Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary awarded its Community Service Scholarship for 2021-2022 to two excellent students. Scholarships recipients Payton Early and Jay Moore were honored with an appreciation dinner on April 14, 2022. Early, daughter of Latrice Greene of Montgomery, is a graduate of Lee High School. She plans to attend UAB and major in Chemistry or Chemical Biomedical Engineering. Moore, son of Julian and Rebecca Moore of Fitzpatrick, is a graduate of Macon East Academy. He plans to attend Auburn University and major in engineering. Early and Moore both received $500. They have demonstrated a passion for volunteering while maintaining a level of academic achievement.

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Pike Road Patriot Band’s Successful Fundraiser Another successful Mattress Fundraiser for the Pike Road Band! Thank you to everybody who spread the word, advertised, supported, and purchased a mattress. Huge thanks to Charlie and his team for their amazing work and we look forward to next year’s sale! We have now made just over $20,000 from this sale in only 4 years!

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Macon East Athlete Signs to Play Football with Bethel University Macon East football and basketball star player, Tyler Daniels was recently honored at a signing ceremony in the Macon East Academy school gym after choosing to play football for the Bethel University Wildcats. Tyler is a 2-year starter for the Knights football team and played outside linebacker and wide receiver. He totaled 508 receiving yards and eight touchdowns this past season. Tyler is one of 6 members of the Class of 2022 continuing their athletic endeavors at the collegiate level.

Pike Road C7 Students Chosen to Attend STEM Camp Every year across the state, a group of girls are nominated by their math or science teacher for a chance to be selected to attend a high level technology program. This program is built to honor and encourage young women who excel, and show promise, in the area of STEM learning. For the first time, we have 2 PRS learners chosen for this honor. After a rigorous interview and screening process by Tech Trek, C7 students Raven Hester and Kennedy Thompson have been chosen to attend STEM camp this summer, and represent Pike Road Schools. This honor is well deserved, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for these bright young scientists! River Region Parents I June 2022

PRHS and PRHS Attend Vex Worlds Robotics Championship PRJHS and PRHS Robotics teams recently competed in the 2022 VEX Robotics VRC World Championship in Dallas, TX. The Big Brains high school team battled hard to make it all the way to division semifinals, putting them in the top 40 Alliances out of approximately 820 of the best robotics teams from around the world! They were also awarded the prestigious honor of the VEX Worlds Sportsmanship Award! According to VEX, the Sportsmanship Award is presented to a team that has earned the respect and admiration of the volunteers and other teams at the event. Braden Crowe, Luke Hastings, Langston Morgan, and Josh Martin embody the Pike Road mission of taking ownership of their learning and inspiring others to think, innovate, and create.

PRES Dances with Tonya Speed

The Pike Road Elementary dance classes take ballet, tap and jazz after school with Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection on Mondays and Wednesdays. The girls did a

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Autauga County Schools Allen Signs LOI with University of the Cumberlands Making Prattville Christian History

Prattville Elementary Ends Year with Ice Cream

Prattville Elementary School is closing out the school year with some fun! The winning 3rd and 4th grade classes from Field Day got to turn administration into ice cream sundaes. Mrs. Ferguson’s homeroom class turned Mrs. Turner into an ice cream sundae and Mrs. Lawrence’s homeroom turned Mrs. Aaron into an ice cream sundae. We’ve also had several classes reviewing with glow parties, “glow what you know.”

Prattville Christian Academy is proud to announce that Andrew Allen signed a Letter of Intent to wrestle with the University of the Cumberlands. Allen blazes a new trail for PCA’s wrestling program as the first student-athlete in program history to pursue his passion collegiately. After wrestling at a national tournament in Virginia Beach this past summer, he caught the eye of Patriot recruiters, and the rest is history. The men’s Patriot wrestling program is ranked ninth in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Conference and won the Mid-South Conference North Title just a few months ago. As the team’s lone senior, Andrew went 36-9 and finished in the top two wrestlers at every tournament during his senior season. He has been an integral part of the program since his seventh-grade year.

Please send School News to: editor@ riverregionparents.com by the 15th of the month.

First Graders at Pine Level Learn All About Alabama Billingsley Students Excel in Christian Leadership Senior, Ashton Arnold, was named the Prattville YMCA-FCA Christian Leadership Award winner for Billingsley School. He was recognized at an awards ceremony held on April 25. Ashton has displayed Christian leadership in athletics, school, church, and the community. Prattville YMCA-FCA Leadership Circle award winners for Billingsley School are: Macie Hubbard, Hannah Emfinger, Shidaisha Harris, Randriquis McCary, and Jackson Manning. These students demonstrated good character, Christian values and leadership in athletics, school, church, and the community. River Region Parents I June 2022

Ms. E. Robinson’s first grade class at Pine Level Elementary School has been learning about our state of Alabama. As a culminating activity to the unit, each student presented a poster of Alabama that included at least four facts about Alabama. The students learned many amazing facts about our state and also worked on his/her public speaking skills.

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Pine Level Pre-K Learns About Insects

Prattville Christian’s Baseball Team Captains Sign Scholarships with JUCO Programs

Ms. Allen and Mrs. Mills’ Pre-K students at Pine Level Elementary School learned about bugs and insects. Students enjoyed exploring various bugs and insects in the dramatic play area set up as an entomology lab. Students took magnifying glasses outside to go on a bug hunt and take a closer look at various bugs and insects around our school.

Prattville Christian Academy is proud to announce two more Panthers to sign Letters of Intent to play baseball at the collegiate level. During a dual ceremony last week, Jackson Reed signed with Columbia State Community College in Columbia, Tennessee, and Taylor Lowe signed with Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi. Edrick Yelder signed with Alabama State University in a separate ceremony earlier this year. Both student-athletes anchored the mound during their time on the varsity roster. Jackson Reed and Taylor Lowe were starting pitchers who led the team with stability and dedication to their teammates, their positions, and the sport. According to Tommy Goodson, PCA’s head baseball coach, “the guys were the backbone of the team.” “All great programs need student-athletes committed to the team and families committed to the program,” said Coach Goodson. “These families are big supporters of what we’re trying to do on and off the field.”

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The 20212022 school year has ended, and 766 graduates received diplomas signaling the end of their K-12 academic careers. Thanks to our high school administrators for providing their graduates a ceremony to remember. I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments of these students! The Elmore County High School senior class of 105 students was awarded nearly $1.64 million in scholarships. Seven graduates will enter military service, and 43 students are college-bound. Sean Darnell was named Region 3 Bryant-Jordan winner, and Maggie Thames received the Joe Sewell Girl’s Academic Award. Valedictorian was Maggie Thames, and Co-Salutatorians were Jack Atkinson and Emma Brown. The Holtville High School senior class of 106 students earned approximately $3.2 million in scholarships. Thirteen members of this class

will enter military service, and 41 will pursue post-secondary education. The Joe Sewell Boy’s Athletic Award went to Cooper Harrison, and Michael Forney received the overall boy’s Joe Sewell Memorial Award. Valedictorian was Hannah Daniel, and Co-Salutatorians were Michael Forney and Brae Lee Morris Stanhope Elmore High School’s senior class of 223 students was awarded $3.1 million in scholarships. Twenty-nine graduates will enter military service, and 120 students will pursue post-secondary education. The Joe Sewell Girl’s Leadership Award went to Madison McElrath, and Mackenzie Foshee received the Girl’s Church, Community, and Character Award. Valedictorian was Chloe Naquin, and Co-Salutatorians were Raegan Blame and Madison McElrath. The 239 students in Wetumpka High School’s senior class have earned over $4.6 million in scholarships. Six students will enter military service, and 153 students will pursue post-secondary education. Avery M. Thomas received the Joe Sewell Boy’s Leadership Award. The Valedictorian was Julian Vilardi, and the Salutatorian was Adrianna Orsi.

The EDGE, Elmore County’s virtual school, graduated its second class of 93 seniors. Four graduates will enter military service, 57 students will pursue post-secondary education, and 32 students will enter the workforce. The EDGE Valedictorian was Gabriel Brenneman. Our students have taken advantage of a wide variety of course offerings, including Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, and/ or Career-Technical Education courses and are well prepared to enter college or the work force. They have collectively earned scholarship offers totaling over $12.5 million! Congratulations to our graduates and we wish you well in your new endeavors! The end of each school year provides an opportunity to “look behind and plan ahead.” We will reflect and fine-tune to offer our students optimal opportunities to learn, grow, and achieve maximum potential in the upcoming school year! Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

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Elmore County Schools Homeschool Co-Op Recognizes Graduates

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Redland Celebrates Original Teachers Redland Elementary has had an amazing staff over the years. We’ve had some great ones leave and some great ones come in! These people in this picture are the originals! We’ve been together since the doors opened in 2009. Now that the dream of the Redland Middle School is a reality, some of us will continue serving the redland community there. While the tears are flowing for this end, we know there is an exciting beginning just around the corner.

Wetumpka High Theatre Performs The Addams Family Academy Days Co-op honors its graduating seniors Gabriella Newell of Montgomery, Emma Wilson of Prattville and Gabriella Colburn of Pike Road as they embark on a new chapter in their lives. Held at Eastmont Baptist Church in Montgomery, Academy Days Co-op meets weekly during the school year for homeschoolers to take classes in such diverse subjects as Marine Biology, Chinese, Photography, Shakespeare, Computer Programming, Cake Decorating, and P.E. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information.

Wetumpka HS Theatre Guild’s performance of The Addams Family did not disappoint. Great job by all involved. Go Indians!

Homeschool Kindergarten Graduates Warn the World

Holtville High Baseball Wins Big What a night! The HHS Bulldogs baseball team swept Headland last night in the AHSAA State 5A Semifinals in front of a HUGE crowd and is headed to the Finals for the first time since 1983! We appreciate all who came out to cheer on this awesome group of coaches and young men! The Bulldogs will play Game 1 at 7 p.m. Wednesday night at Choccolocco Park in Oxford, AL!

Finishing up kindergarten and letting the world know it are Morgan Perrotta of Ramer, Gavin Lancaster of Montgomery, Daniel DuPre of Montgomery, AnnaGrace Maddox of Montgomery, Zelda Senn of Millbrook, and Shaun Lynch of Montgomery. Not pictured are Nolan Wilson of Prattville and Madalyn Dyer of Mathew. These homeschoolers will start first grade at Academy Days Co-op in the fall. Held at Eastmont Baptist Church in Montgomery, Academy Days Co-op meets weekly during the school year for homeschoolers in preschool through high school. Some of the classes these new first graders and other elementary students can look forward to taking in the fall are science labs, creative writing, history, art, and P.E. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information. 43

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The Hidden Dangers of the “Perfect Picture” We have all done it... used the latest filters to “perfect” or fix our photos. It seems innocent enough. A quick swipe and our faces are flawlessly “fixed”, and for many of us, the filters also remove a few years in the process. The reality is that our young children, and teens, are watching. Additionally, even at a young age, we “pose” them to achieve the “perfect” angle. Or the perfect shot. Sometimes it may take 50 pictures to get “the one”. I have been guilty of this in the past. However, it begs the question: What are we TEACHING our children? Parents are influencers. We are influencers of our children. What are we teaching them by asking them to pose 25 times for the right shot? Are we teaching them they cannot be themselves? That they must always be presented perfectly? When they get their own social media, this may lead to them feeling they can only share the perfectly angled selfie every time. The reality is, who doesn’t love a good selfie? Who doesn’t love a nice picture that we feel proud of. Even so, it feels like the era of selfies and picture sharing has exploded. In 2019, Android reported that its users take 93 MILLION selfies a DAY. This does not include iPhone data. Those numbers combined are staggering. About a third of parents with children ages 7-9 reported that their kids use social media apps via phones or tablets, according to the 2021 C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll in Health. About half the parents with children ages 10-12 reported the same, and the numbers increase as the child’s age increases. This means our kids, at River Region Parents I June 2022

young ages, have easy access to social media and devices where they can post selfies.

Kids love to imitate what they see. If they are being taught from a young age to pose for the perfect picture, or if they grow up seeing this exhibited through parent’s behavior, they begin to imitate that behavior. While we want this to be harmless, it actually can lead to some confusion among our youth. They can begin to wonder if the “real” version of themselves is good enough. They wonder if they should only post the “filtered” or “perfectly posed” version of themselves. We see this among our daughters especially. Research is constantly pointing us in the direction of increasing body image issues among young girls, and at an alarming rate. Constant filtered or forced posing creates a situation where girls can no longer see the “real” version of themselves as being enough. So what can we do to protect our kids? One, ask their permission before you ever post a picture of them. This 44

is so important. Kids tell me at every conference how much they hate when parents post pictures of them without their permission. It is one of their number one complaints. Two, model good behavior. Chat with your kids about why it is not important to always have the perfect picture. If they agree, taking a few quick shots without a lot of posing, might be enough. Also, be careful of your own personal filter use because, again, they are watching. Three, discuss with them that what they see online are simply quick photos or videos, a few seconds out of someone’s 24-hour day. What they see online never presents the “real picture” of the rest of that person’s day. Help them to understand that we are all human, we all have bad days, and that the “real” version is always better than a filtered one.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

www.riverregionparents.com

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Do your kids seem a little less ready for school after each summer break? If the answer is yes, don’t worry. They’re far from alone. It’s a common experience known as the “summer learning slide.” Research shows that kids typically lose the equivalent of a month’s worth of learning over the summer break - and it gets worse the older they get! www.riverregionparents.com

River Region Parents I June 2022

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So, what can parents do to give the slide the slip? Here are seven fun activities that have worked for our teenage son, and I bet they’ll help your kids, too.

Read A Fiction and A NonFiction Book Every Other Week Since our son learned to read, we’ve had him read one fiction and one non-fiction book every other week to keep his reading and comprehension skills at grade level. It’s summer after all, so instead of assigning him books like he’s used to from school, we let him choose what to read.

Keep A Vacation Journal We take at least one big family vacation trip every summer, and since our son was very young we’ve had him keep a daily journal where he writes about what we did that day. It’s been a great way to keep his writing skills up-to-date and document his childhood.

Email Family and Friends To strengthen our son’s writing skills, we also have him email family and friends, especially those people we don’t get to see that much during the year. Teenagers prefer texting, but we insist that he emails them because texts are usually full of broken sentences, odd grammar, and spelling mistakes.

Play Math-Based Board Games In the evening, whether we’re on a family vacation trip or at home, we play math games like Monopoly or spelling games like Scrabble. The key is to focus on the fun part - the competition - rather than the learning. If you do that, the learning will happen automatically.

Watch Feature and Documentary Movies Aside from playing a board game or two, we also watch movies in the evening. With all the streaming services available, it’s not

that hard to find a documentary or feature film, which also happens to be educational. Movies are some of the most fun ways to learn about other time periods, cultures, and current events.

Download Educational Apps Although we try to make our son’s summer activities as social as possible, we also indulge his interest in anything technological, like letting him download all the educational apps he wants. He really likes quiz apps, which like the board game Trivial Pursuit, is great for developing kids’ general knowledge. 47

Visit Arts, History, and Natural Science Museums Museum visits are another great way to keep your kids up-to-date with the arts, history, and natural science. It doesn’t matter whether you live in a big or a small city. Even the smallest town often has a museum nearby. Going to the local town museum and learning about your own history can be surprisingly fun. rrp

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

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by Kimberley Carter Spivey

Summer is officially here! The weather is warmer, and we have a fun recipe to share this month that will keep things simple on lazy summer nights. This recipe is filling and can be considered a “breakfast for dinner” dish. Heather Carroll, a Montgomery resident, shares a favorite dish her family enjoys. She is married to Clint Carroll, and they recently celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary. Heather and Clint have three children: Brooks (10), Abby Kate (8), and Sarah Ann (almost 6). Currently, Heather homeschools their three children, and she is a partner with Juice Plus company, which has been a part of their health journey. The couple owns a paint supply company in Montgomery—John Lee Paint Company. As a child, Heather was intrigued watching her grandmothers make homemade biscuits and gravy and chicken and dumplings. She shares, “I remember the first thing I made with my mother’s help was baked cinnamon apples.” Heather continued finding joy in cooking through college and into marriage. “Before our children were born, my husband and I would come home from work and cook together regularly. I have actually learned a lot from my husband, who cooks really well. He enjoyed being in the kitchen with his mom growing up.” There are periods when cooking is more enjoyable for Heather, often at the end a busy sports season where fruit, veggie trays, and hard-boiled eggs are River Region Parents I June 2022

the norm. In the Carroll household, themed cooking nights include Meatless Monday, Taco Tuesday, and grilling during the weekends for the upcoming week. For the past few years, the Carroll’s cooking style has become simpler. They love sausage and potatoes with veggies on the side, and tacos are a big hit for their family. They cook with a lot of venison so being creative with new recipes is a fun challenge. Heather particularly enjoys cooking with a cast-iron skillet and using it in the oven. One of the favorite nights in their house is breakfast night. When looking for a new breakfast idea on Pinterest, Heather discovered a recipe from poshjournal. com. She modified it to be gluten-free and dairy-free by reducing the butter and substituting the sugar for maple syrup. Heather shares, “I asked our kids their favorite meal, and Dutch Baby Pancakes had all the votes, so I’m sharing it with you.”

Dutch Baby Pancakes Ingredients 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 1/2 cups King Arthur gluten-free flour 1 1/2 cups coconut milk 9 eggs 1 1/2 tablespoons of maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 48

3/4 teaspoon sea salt 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Directions - Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. - Place the butter in a large ovenproof skillet (12-inch Le Cruise) and place it in the preheated oven. - Next, combine flour, eggs, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until uniform using a blender. - Remove the hot skillet from the oven. - Pour the batter into the skillet and cook for about 30 to 35 minutes or until the pancake is puffed. - Top with fresh fruit and whipped coconut cream (1 can of coconut cream and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup whipped).

Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, author, and entrepreneur. When she’s not working as an Instructional Systems Designer and copy-editor on Maxwell AFB, she’s busy freelancing, blogging, or toiling away at her next book. Her debut book Bloom: How to Get from Good Enough to a Life You Love can be purchased on Amazon and girlyouwrite.com.

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The Importance of FINDING

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When my first child was born 13 years ago I was thrilled to be a mom and so in love with my son. My husband and I had decided that I would become a stay-at-home mom and I was looking forward to all the time I could spend with my son. After a few months of adjusting to becoming a mom, I started to feel lonely. I had given up my job, and while I was still head over heels in love with my boy, something vital felt missing.

Whether you are a working mom or stay at home, have one child or five children, whether you are struggling through the exhausting days and sleepless nights of babies and toddlers or the busy schedules of school age kids, you need a crew. Many moms define their crew as other women who understand where they are in life without having to explain a single thing. They get you, they accept you, and they cheer you on as you struggle your way through it. If you are feeling lonely and are seeking a friend, or two, to laugh and cry with through your current stage of motherhood, I encourage you to find your crew.

I realized quickly that it was...

Adult Interaction!

River Region Parents I June 2022

Here are a few places to start. 50

www.riverregionparents.com

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Be open and accepting

The first step to finding authentic people that you can relate to and build lasting relationships with is to be your authentic self. When you are an open, honest, and accepting person, you will encourage others to behave the same. Be yourself, listen to what others have to say, accept others for who they are, and relationships will happen organically. It can be uncomfortable, scary even, to put yourself out there but the relationships far outweigh the risk when you find true friends.

2022 SUMMER FILM SERIES

Common interests

Encanto Thursday, June 23

There are times where finding people to start friendships with can be challenging. Especially when you have a big life change like a move, becoming a parent, or changing jobs. Take inventory of what you love to do or what groups are already existing that you could join. For example, if you love running, join a running club. If you love to read, join or start a book club. If you are a mom, join a playgroup or a mother’s group at a local church. Does the PTO at your school need help? Would you consider being a soccer coach or Boy Scout leader? All of these examples are great ways to get involved in your community and make friends along the way. After the birth of our triplets, I joined an online group of triplet moms. Four years later, I am surprised to say that they are some of my closest friends and one of my biggest support systems.

Beauty and the Beast (Sing-along) Thursday, July 7

Sing 2 Thursday, July 21

Give support and ask for it

One of the main things that makes a crew so important is the support given and received during the times when it is needed most. When my daughter was hospitalized for several weeks, my mother’s group supplied meals, gave my other kids rides to and from school, helped with childcare, sent flowers and cards, and basically kept my family going when my husband and I couldn’t have done it on our own. They would not have known how to help if I hadn’t reached out to them and asked. Asking for help can be hard for people who are used to managing the family and are good at it too, but remember that during difficult times friends want to help. Just ask. Conversely, it can be such a blessing to help others when they need it. Giving a ride to school, making a little extra food to share, sending a text, or talking with a friend when they need a listening ear doesn’t take much extra effort. Finding your crew can mean pushing yourself to step outside your comfort zone and reach out to others. While it is difficult to do at first, once you find a group of friends that understand and support you, it is well worth the time and effort put in to build and strengthen those relationships. rrp

Black Panther Thursday, August 4

Join us this summer for free screenings under the stars! Amphitheatre at the City of Auburn Lawn and Porch Gates open at 6 p.m. • Films begin at 7 p.m.

Free and open to the public! Blankets and chairs permitted. No outside food or beverages allowed.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and contributes articles to numerous parenting publications.

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Jalapeno’s in the Alley 130 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Mexican menu. Child eats free on Monday’s with the purchase of adult meal.

2022 2021

(334) 262.4939

Jason’s Delli 1520 Eastern Blvd Montgomery, AL 36117 Delicious sandwiches, crisp salads, and more quick, quality meals made with fresh ingredients and no artificial trans fats, MSG, high-fructose corn syrup, or artificial colors and dyes! (334) 409-9890

jasonsdeli.com

Lek’s Railroad Thai Restaurant 300 Water St Montgomery, AL 36104 Thai destination offering up curry, noodle dishes & sushi in a historic Union Station building. (334) 269-0708

Facebook: Lek’s Railroad Thai

Logan’s Roadhouse 2775 Legends Parkway Prattville, AL 36066 American food and cocktails. 1 free kids meal per adult entrée purchase on Wednesdays. (334) 285.9900

Where to Eat Burger Fi

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7413 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Committed to serving the best burger experience. We also serve shakes, fried, hot dogs and more. (334) 356.8645

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Beef O’ Brady’s 2776 Legends Pkwy. Prattville, AL 36066 Irish type pub. One Free kids meal for kids under 12 with the purchase of one regular priced adult meal on Monday from 4-8 p.m. Dine in-only. beefobradys.com

Bruster’s Ice Cream All locations River Region, AL Large selection of ice cream, cakes and pies. Kids under 40? get a free baby cone. brusters.com

Capitol Oyster Bar 617 Shady Street Montgomery, AL 36104 We offer the best seafood and view in town. Come visit us and enjoy our live entertainment. (334) 239.8958

capitoloysterbar.com

Chappy’s Deli River Region Montgomery, AL We have several locations in Montgomery and Prattville. Large selection of foods from burgers off the grill, signature sandwiches or salads. Free meals for children under 6 daily. Kids 6-12 eat for only $2.50. Free mini icecream after meal. (334) 279.1226

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CiCi’s Pizza All locations River Region, AL Pizza, salad and dessert buffet. Kids under 3 eat free. cicis.com

Baumhower’s Wings 2465 Eastern Blvd. and 201 S. Union Street Montgomery, AL 36117 Sports pub with wings. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with purchase of $10 adult entrée and is limited to 1 child per adult.

(334) 290.9962

Chris’s Hotdogs 138 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 Old style mom & pop diner that is known for its chili cheese dogs.

chappysdeli.com

Chicken Salad Chik All locations River Region, AL Delicious selection of chicken salad. Offers free meals for kids 10 and under on Tuesdays. chickensaladchik.com

River Region Parents I June 2022

City Grill 5251 Hampstead High St Montgomery, AL 36116 Upscale, adult dining in a casual atmosphere. (334) 244.0960

Facebook: City Grill

Cuco’s 11123 Chantilly Pkwy. Pike Road, AL 36064 Mexican style café. Kids eat free on Tuesday. (334) 271.3528

cucosmexicancafe.com

Dreamland BBQ Two locations Montgomery, AL 36116 Try us for our famous BBQ and sauce. We also offer locally brewed craft beer from the Rail Yard. Free meals for kids on Sundays with the purchase of an adult entrée. (334) 273.7427 (334) 239.8228

dreamlandbbq.com

El Patron Mexican Grill 2152 Cobbs Ford Prattville, AL 36066 Mexican Grill. Kids eat free with paying on adult on Mondays. (334) 285.2120

Fazoli’s 7123 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Italian style food. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with paying adult. (334) 239.9109

fazolis.com

Gazebo Tea Room 414 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36092 Piano music plus sandwiches and tea equal a calming and peaceful lunchtime experience. (334) 277.1839

Facebook: The Gazebo Tea Room

Green Papaya 409 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36109 Authentic Lao-Thai cuisine and experience. (334) 395.7654

greenpapayacuisine.com

logansroadhouse.com

Martin’s 1796 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Longtime local family restaurant with southern comfort food. Known for our fried chicken. (334) 265.1767

Facebook: Martins Restaurant

McAlister’s Deli 2747 Legends Pkwy. Prattville, AL 36066 Known for its sandwiches, baked potatoes and tea. Kids eat everyday for $.99 (334) 285.3334

mcalistersdeli.com

Mellow Mushroom 75 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Pizza, calzones and more in the perfect location. (334) 239.3688

mellowmushroom.com

Mellow Mushroom Prattville 2641 Legends Pkwy. Prattville, AL 36066 Pizza, calzones and more! Kids eat free per adult meal purchase on Tuesdays after 5 p.m. (334) 290.2088

mellowmushroom.com

Midtown Pizza Montgomery and Prattville Pizza, Pasta, sandwiches and more! Casual dining experience for good food with friends. (334) 395.0080

mpkmontgomery.com

Mr. Gus’ Ristorante’ 6268 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Authentic Italian and Greek food. We serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. (334) 593.9388

Facebook: Mr. Gus’ Ristorante

Nancy’s Italian Ice 7976 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 16 flavors of Italian ice served everyday. We also have cupcakes and gelato. (334) 356.1403

nancysice.com

O’Charleys 2301 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville, AL 36066 Traditional American cuisine. One free kid’s meal when you purchase one adult entree, all day every day. Your kids need to be 10 or younger to qualify for the promo. (334) 285.2990

ocharleys.com

Pannie George’s 450 North Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Home Style Southern Cuisine. (334) 386.9116

panniegeorgeskitchen.com

Pizza Perfect 428 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36109 Thin crust pizzas cooked to order and buffet.

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Red Robin 7005 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 American style grub. Kids eat for $1.99 with the purchase of an adult entrée on Thursdays. (334) 396.1078

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Saza’s 130 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Serious Italian food in a hip atmosphere. Walking in awakens your taste buds. (334) 495.7292

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Seafood Bistro 1651 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Cajun seafood at its best and is sure to delight your senses. (334) 279.7500

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Shashy’s Fine Foods 1700 Mulberry Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Home-style southern food + cakes & pastries. (334) 263.7341

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Sinclair’s East 7847 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Steaks, fish, salads, pasta or southern styled meals served. Five kids meals to choose from. (334) 271.7654

sinclairsrestaurants.com

Sol Restaurante 3962 Atlanta Highway and 9539 Vaughn Road Montgomery and Pike Road, AL 36109 Authentic Mexican dishes served in a relaxing atmosphere. (334) 593.8250 and (334)593.7984 getbento.com

solrestaurante.

Sommer’s Place 7972 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Fine selection of fresh sea fish, seafood, southern cooking and more. (334) 279.5401

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Steak ‘n Shake All locations River Region, AL Diner style meals. Kids eat free on Sundays. One free kids’ plate for every $9 adult purchase. Dine in only. steaknshake.com

Sweetcreek Farm Market & Café 85 Meriwether Road Pike Road, AL 36064 Farm to table eatery with local fresh produce and signature sandwiches. Kids eat free in the café on Tuesdays with a purchase of an entree. (334) 280.3276 Market

Facebook: SweetCreek Farm

Texas Roadhouse 7525 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 American fare with a southwestern spin. Kids eat for $2.99 with purchase of adult entrée after 4 p.m. on Thursday’s. (334) 396.7774

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The Little Donkey 7720 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Farm to table style Mexican food. (334) 625.1949

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The Wharf Casual Seafood 6945 Eastchase Loop and 3954 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL Large selection of seafood entrees. Kids choose a free meal from the kids menu with the purchase of an adult entrée on Thursday’s. (334) 593.1850

wharfcasualseafood.com

Tipping Point 5015 Hampstead High St Montgomery, AL 36116 A local hangout where you can enjoy food, drinks and fun with the whole family. Garden area for your kids and dogs to play in while you enjoy the patio. We offer an extensive selection of craft beer and good eats. (334) 260.9110

tippingpointhampstead.com

Tomatino’s Pizza and Bake Shop 503 Cloverdale Rd Montgomery, AL 36106 Quaint locale offering traditional pizzas, salads, housemade breads & calzones, plus beer & wine. (334) 264-4241

tomatinos.com

Urban Cookhouse 7712 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Wide selection of farm fresh food. Child eats free from 4-6 p.m. on Mondays with purchase of adult entrée. (334) 293.7801

urbancookhouse.com

Wishbone Café 7028 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 A true foodie’s paradise serving creole cuisine. (334) 244.7270

wishbone-café.com

Where to Grow Montgomery Childcare Macon East Academy ad on page 7, 39

15396 Vaughn Road Cecil , AL 36013 Each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, emotional and intellectual needs. (334) 277.6566

maconeast.net

Memorial Presbyterian Children’s Center ad on page 71

2130 Bell Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Connecting Children’s Hearts and Minds to Jesus. (334) 274.1018

memorialpres.net

Montessori at Hampstead ad on page 28

5251 Hampstead High Street, Suite #111 Montgomery , AL 36116 We offer a structured yet individual, child-driven approach to education based on Montessori method. (334) 356-1969 MSHMontgomery.org Facebook: facebook.com/MontessoriatHampstead

The Learning Tree Child Development Center ad on page 42

4120 Carmichael Road and 3335 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Your Children deserve the best so why not give it to them. We pride ourselves in having the best childcare program for ages 6 weeks to 12 years. (334) 271.4733 and (334) 284.5560

Vaughn Road Preschool ad on page 62

8790 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 To nurture and educate the whole child in a loving, Christian environment. We accept children 6 weeks to preschool age. (334) 277.4815

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early in a child’s life. Our preschool ministry is a place children can be themselves and learn more about the One who created and deeply loves them.

The Learning Tree Child Development Center

1816 Glynnwood Drive Prattville , AL 36066 Your Children deserve the best so why not give it to them. We pride ourselves in having the best childcare program for ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

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(334) 361.9481

2022 2021

fbcprattville.org

ad on page 42

(334) 365.1451

First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten 211 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067 Our desire is to help your child grow academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually while he or she is here with us throughout the school year. (334) 365.6387

fpkprattville.com

Wetumpka

Aldersgate Weekday Children’s Ministry 6610 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Our mission is to provide quality childcare and education in a Christian environment that provides opportunities for spiritual, education, emotional and physical development. (334) 277.0880

aldersgateumc.org

Eastmont Christian Kindergarten 4505 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36109 Our dedicated staff is eager to serve your family by providing a loving environment for your child while challenging them academically and nurturing them spiritually. We offer K3, K4, and K5 classes Monday through Friday mornings from 8:30am to 11:30am. (334) 239.8555

eastmont.org

Evangel Christian Preschool 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 We provide a safe and loving environment for children ages 6 weeks to 3 year across the River Region. (334) 273.0730

ecalions.org

First United Methodist Church Early Childhood Development Center 2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 We partner with families to help children grow physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually for children 6 weeks to 5 years. (334) 834.8964

fumcmontgomery.org

Frazer Christian Preschool 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Our program that provides students with numerous opportunities to develop strong social, academic and spiritual foundations. (334) 495.6370

frazer.church

Gracepointe Child Development Center 1565 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery, AL 36117 We run an intentional play based center. Our teachers use developmentally appropriate practice skills to teach your child from ages 6 weeks to 5 years. (205) 799.7570

grace-pointe.com

Heritage Child Development Center 1849 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36016 Our goal is to lead people into a life changing relationship with Jesus Christ in Montgomery and beyond by providing excellent early childhood education that helps preschoolers grow spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally. (334) 279.0643

heritagecdc.net

River Region Parents I June 2022

Hooper Academy Early Learning Center 380 Fischer Road Hope Hull, AL 36043 We offer a quality program with unconditional love and care for each child. Our center provides structured schedules which promote each child’s physical, emotional, intellectual, language, and motor skills development. (334) 288.2770

hooperacademy.org

Lakeview Child Development Center 9225 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Providing a safe, loving, Christian environment where children are happy and parents entrust their children to our care with confidence. Ages: 6 weeks to 4 years, Monday-Friday (334) 396.3944 care_info

lakeviewbaptistchurch.cc/day-

Montessori @ Mulberry 2034 Clubview Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Montessori at Mulberry serves children 18 months to 6 years of age. Children learn at their own pace and with a variety of hands on materials geared specifically for them. (334) 265.7733

montessoriatmulberry.com

St. James Christian Preschool 9045 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Saint James Christian Preschool is dedicated to providing a loving, nurturing environment, which allows a child to grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. (334) 481.0722

sjlife.com

Taylor Road Baptist Mother’s Day Out Program 1685 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Providing a safe, nurturing environment for children since 1991. (334) 271.3363

taylorroad.org

Vaughn Park Church of Christ Mother’s Day Out 3800 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Mother’s Day Out at Vaughn Park is a half-day program full of fun and learning. We accept babies at 6 weeks through 4 years old. (334) 272.2665

vaughnpark.com

Prattville & Millbrook Childcare First Baptist Preschool & Kindergarten ad on page 41

138 South Washington St Prattville, AL 36104 We believe it’s important to plant seeds of faith

First Baptist Child Development Center 205 W. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Our goal is to provide a well-rounded ministry of nurturing for your child, as well as a system of encouragement and support for parents and grandparents. (334) 567.3319

fbc/wetumpka.org

First Steps Mother’s Day Out and Preschool 1266 Dozier Road Wetumpka, AL 36093 We offer a Christ centered environment, small classes with age appropriate curriculum, designed to foster a love of learning and prepare your child for academic success in the years to come. (334) 221.5681

Facebook: First Steps RBC

Wetumpka Preschool and Child Development Center and Periscope, LLC 502 N. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Our goal for preschool is to foster the development of a healthy self-image which will assist the child to regard themselves as people who are important, good friends of classmates, good learners and eager participants in Preschool and whole school activities. (334) 567.4689

gatewaypreschool.weebly.com

Hospitals Baptist Medical Center East ad on page 35

400 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 277.8330

baptistfirst.org

Baptist Medical Center South ad on page 35

2105 E. South Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 288.2100

baptistfirst.org

Jackson Hospital ad on page 4

1725 Pine Street Montgomery, AL 36106 (334) 293.8000

jackson.org

Elmore Community Hospital 500 Hospital Drive Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567.4311

ivycreekhealth.com

Prattville Baptist Hospital 124 S. Memorial Drive Prattville, AL 36067 (334) 365.0651

baptistfirst.org

VA Medical Center 215 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36109 (334) 272.4670

centralalabama.va.gov

www.riverregionparents.com

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Mom Groups Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts ad on page 19

One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Pre-school and school age classes for parent/child partners. (334) 240.4333

mmfa.org

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Century Strong Moms 11 Chapel Hill Street Pike Road, AL 36064 Dedicated in helping moms in the community be STRONG moms. Please email lifegroups@ century.church.

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Mom2Mom Frazer Church Montgomery, AL 36117 Playgroup to connect mother of newborn to 5 years old. Email mom2mom@frazerumc.org

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frazerumc.org

Montgomery Multiples Offers support to mothers of twins, triplet and more. Moms night out with dinner once a month. sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) First Baptist Church, 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Support group for moms of preschoolers. Meet twice a month with motivational speakers, conversations with other moms and activities. Childcare provided. (334) 241.5165

montgomeryfbc.org/mops

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Young Meadows Church, 5780 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Support group for moms of preschoolers. Meet 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 am at Young

Meadows Church (September-May). Interested moms can reach out to riverregionmops334@ gmail.com or find us on Facebook. Childcare provided. vfcmops.weebly.com

(334) 265.3543

OBGYNs OB-GYN Associates ad on page 14, 21

495 Taylor Road, Montgomery 630 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville For over 20 years, our medical practice has provided health care for women of all ages in Montgomery and the surrounding areas. At OB/GYN Associates of Montgomery we provide up-todate comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic services in high risk and normal risk pregnancy, infertility, incontinence, pelvic prolapse, menopause, abnormal pap smears, menstrual problems, birth control, endometriosis, pelvic pain, and weight loss. Our talented and personable doctors and staff offer individualized care at three practice locations. We are equipped with some of the latest technology to better and more efficiently serve you. (334) 279.9333

Central Alabama Ob-gyn Associates 2024 Chestnut Street Montgomery , AL 36106 Specializing in gynecology and obstetrics, female infertility and surgery.

obgynmontgomery.com

Montgomery Women’s Health Associates 470 Taylor Road, Ste 300 Montgomery, AL 36117 Specializing in routine and high risk prenatal care, including non-invasive prenatal testing. Ultrasounds, nonstress testing and biophysical testing done in office. (334) 281.1191

montgomerywomenshealth.com

Physicians for Women 287 Mitylene Park Drive, Montgomery and 645 McQueen Smith Road Specializing in gynecology and obstetrics. (334) 290.4200 and (334) 491.4200

mypfw.com

Phone: 334-659-1436 | Cell: 334-398-6904 | Toll Free: 1-800-376-2012 | Fax: 334-659-2242 8116 Old Federal Road Suite C Montgomery, AL 36117 Website: www.hagenwealth.com

rnole

“Our professional experience, financial market insight and knowledge of global economic trends combine to inspire the confidence that you are in capable hands.” - Chris Hagen

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Independent Advisor Alliance, a Registered Investment Advisor. Hagen Wealth Management LLC, and Independent Advisor Alliance are separate entities from LPL Financial. 55

Chris M. Hagen, MBA LPL Financial Advisor chris.hagen@lpl.com www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Millbrook Public Library 3650 Grandview Road Millbrook, AL 36054 (334) 285.6688

2022 2021

cityofmillbrook.org

Pike Road Branch Library 9585 Vaughn Road Pike Road, AL 36064 (334) 244.8679

mccpl.lib.al.us

Wetumpka Public Library 212 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567.5147

wetumpkalibrary.com

Museums Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts ad on page 19

1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Come and view the exhibitions and collection, take an art class, participate in our many events or visit the interactive kids room. (334) 625.4333

Pediatric Dentists/ Orthodontists Chapman Orthodontics ad on page 27

1550 E. Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36106 Father-and-son orthodontic team that provides comfortable and efficient orthodontic treatment to families throughout the Montgomery, Prattville, and Greenville communities. (334) 272.9447

chapmanortho.com

Dentistry for Children ad on page 33

7047 Halcyon Summit Drive, Montgomery 68 Village Loop, Wetumpka We provide comprehensive dental care to infants, children, adolescents and special needs patients. (334) 277.6830

chew-chewtrain.com

Just for Grins Orthodontist ad on page 24

7051 Halcyon Summit Drive, Montgomery; 68 Village Lp, Wetumpka; 207 Ashton Pl, Millbrook We offer a wide array of orthodontic treatment options to get you or your child a smile to be proud of. (334) 270.1044

justforgrinsortho.com

Montgomery and Prattville Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics ad on page 37

2600 Bell Road, Montgomery; 460 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville; 9547 Vaughn Road, Pike Road Our mission is to provide comprehensive dental and orthodontic treatment and education for children and adolescents in a friendly atmosphere that encourages children to enjoy their dental experiences. (334) 277.6690

(334) 358.6411

smilesfromus.com

Kingry Orthodontics 8101 Seaton Place, Montgomery 31 Bridge Street, Pike Road We offer services for Invisalign, early treatment, adult treatment, incognito and headache relief. Creating Smiles for Life! (334) 272.4900

kingryorthodontics.com

River Region Parents I June 2022

Pediatricians Carlile Pediatric 78 Cambridge Court Wetumpka, AL 36093 Provide complete and personal healthcare for infants, children and adolescents. (334) 567.6915

carlilepediatrics.com

Partners in Pediatrics 8160 Seaton Place Montgomery , AL 36116 136 E. Main Street Prattville, AL 36066 Complete healthcare for pediatric and adolescents. On call service for each night and on weekends. (334) 272.1799

mykidsdr.com

Pediatric Healthcare 4700 Woodmere Blvd. Montgomery , AL 36106 Provide quality care for infants, children and adolescents and to assist parents in the endeavor in rearing their children to reach their optimal physical, emotional, and spiritual development. (334) 273.9700

pedhealthcare.com

Professional Pediatrics 4154 Carmichael Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. Our office consists of 3 doctors and accepting new patients. (334) 271.5959

professionalpediatrics.com

Where to Learn Libraries Autauga-Prattville Public Library 254 Doster Street Prattville , AL 36067 (334) 365.3396

appl.info

Coliseum Boulevard Branch Library 840 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36109 (334) 271.7005

mccpl.lib.al.us

E.L. Lowder Regional Branch Library 2590 Bell Road Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 625.5717

mccpl.lib.al.us

Hampstead Library 5251 Long Acre Street Montgomery, AL 36116 (334)244.5770

mccpl.lib.al.us

Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library 245 High Street Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 625.4999

mccpl.lib.al.us

mmfa.org

Alabama Cattleman’s MOOseum 201 S. Bainbridge Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Hands on agricultural education center for children . They can dress up as cowboys and cowgirls. (334) 265.1867

bamabeef.org

Dexter Parsonage Museum 309 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Take a tour of the home where Martin Luther King and his family lived during the Civil Rights Movement. (334) 261.3270

dexterkingmemorial.com

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum 919 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 This museum is dedicated to the lives of the Fitzgerald’s during their stay in Montgomery. Come and visit us for a tour or one of our yearly local events. (334) 264.4222

thefitzgeraldmuseum.org

Freedom Rides Museum 210 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Come see how 21 people changed history using non-violent protest methods. (334) 414.8647

freedomridesmuseum.org

Hank Williams Museum 118 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Museum dedicated in the preservation the country star’s memorabilia, instruments and more. (334) 262.3600

thehankwilliamsmuseum.net

Legacy Museum 115 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Displays the history of racism and hatred in America (334) 386.9100

museumandmemorial.eji.org

Mann Wildlife Learning Museum 325 Vandiver Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110 Visit and learn about North American wildlife in a realistic setting of their natural habitat. Located at The Montgomery Zoo. (334) 240.4900

mannmuseum.com

Rosa Parks Library and Museum 208 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Memorial to the life Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. (800) 414.4756

troy.edu

Performing Arts Centers & Theatres Alabama Shakespeare Festival 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 A beautiful vision built by one of the locals. People from all over come to visit ASF and enjoy many of the plays throughout the year. 1 (800) 841.4273

asf.net

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Capri Theatre 1045 East Fairview Ave Montgomery, AL 36106 One of the oldest remaining theatres in Montgomery. Please check our website for playlist.

Wetumpka Depot Players 300 South Main Street Wetumpka , AL 36092 Live performances by local actors. Junior group performances.

Cloverdale Playhouse 960 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Performing arts center in Montgomery located in the Cloverdale Historic District. Educational programs available in theatre.

Private Schools

(334) 262.4858

(334) 262.1530

capritheatre.org

cloverdaleplayhouse.org

Davis Theatre for Performing Arts 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Beautiful historic theatre that hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year. (334) 241.9567 Theatre

Facebook: Troy University’s Davis

mpaconline.org

Pike Road Theatre Company Pike Road, AL 36064 Community Theatre offering educational and performance opportunities for aspiring community artists, while growing audiences through quality theatre. pikeroadtheatrecompany.org

Prattville Cultural Arts Center: Way Off Broadway Theatre 203 West 4th Street Prattville, AL 36067 Community theatre in Prattville that puts on several performances a year. (334) 595.0850

prattvilleal.gov

River Region Parents I June 2022

wetumpkadepot.com

Alabama Christian Academy ad on page 22

4700 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, AL 36109 The mission of Alabama Christian Academy is to glorify God by providing a quality, Christ-centered education which challenges students and teachers to maximize their potential so that graduates are prepared to further their education while becoming productive Christian citizens. (334) 277.1985

Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Large auditorium located in the Renaissance Hotel for traveling performers and artiste. Please visit our website for concert and performance dates. (334) 481.5100

(334) 868.1140

alabamachristian.org

Churchill Academy ad on page 31

395 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery, AL 36117 The only comprehensive school program in Montgomery specializing in educating bright children with unique learning differences. Testing Requirements: Previous diagnosis of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder or other, and average to above average intellectual functioning, however Churchill will also conduct a testing evaluation to assist in placement. (334) 270.4225

churchillacademy.net

Evangel Christian Academy

LEAD Academy ad on page 26

2897 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery , AL 36116 A public charter school for grades K-5. Our mission is to provide innovative programs designed to spark curiosity, maximize learning potential and continuously improve student achievement by empowering them with 21st century skills. We believe in a Montgomery where every child is given the tools they need to be knowledgeable, productive, and wellrounded citizens, and to lead themselves and our community well. (334) 230.7756

leadacademyal.org

Macon East Academy ad on page 7, 39

15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, AL 36013 A college preparatory school, committed to providing students with a safe, nurturing environment that promotes academic achievement, patriotism, and belief in God through Christian values. (334) 277.6566

maconeast.net

Montessori at Hampstead ad on page 28

ad on page 25

Montgomery Catholic

(334) 272.3882

Saint Bede Campus, 3850 Atlanta Hwy. Holy Spirit Campus, 8580 Vaughn Road; Middle & High School Campus, 5350 Vaughn Rd Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is an

3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Evangel Christian Academy is dedicated to helping prepare our children academically, spiritually, emotionally; to be all that God wants them to be. ecalions.org

ad on page 9, 21

www.riverregionparents.com

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integral part of the Catholic Church’s mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. As an adult community, we share in the responsibility to prepare students for college and beyond while helping them to grow to become persons of faith, virtue, and wisdom. (334) 272.7221

montgomerycatholic.org

Resurrection Catholic ad on page 18

2850 Forbes Drive Montgomery, AL 36110 We strive to offer a quality spiritual and academic program for students from pre-K through the eighth grade. We believe that all students deserve an excellent education regardless of race, creed or color.

ad on Back Cover

Upper School, 3240 Vaughn Road; Lower School, 1550 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106 The Montgomery Academy (MA) is a K–12, co-ed, nonsectarian day school serving the River Region community since 1959. Our mission is to develop leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence. (334) 273.7170

montgomeryacademy.org

Trinity Presbyterian School ad on page 17

River Region Academy

1700 East Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36106 To glorify God by providing for students the highest quality, college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, thus enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body.

4240 Lomac Street Montgomery, AL 36106 River Region Academy is a SACS Accredited school program which offers an individualized education experience. By offering a low student to teacher ratio, we are able to individualize and meet the educational needs of each student.

Cornerstone Christian Academy 125 Calhoun Road Montgomery, AL 36109 Cornerstone Christian Academy’s ultimate objective is to glorify God by preparing students spiritually and intellectually for life-long service in His kingdom.

(334) 263.4221

rcmsouth.org

ad on page 15

(334) 239.0874

sylvanlearning.com

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Saint James School

6010 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Saint James is an independent, nonsectarian, college preparatory school with a student body broadly representative of college-bound students. We are committed to challenging and assisting students in realizing their individual potential and preparing them for lives of responsibility, service, and achievement.

The Montgomery Academy

ad on page 1

(334) 277.8033

stjweb.org

(334) 213.2100

(334) 356.7788

trinitywildcats.com

ccamontgomery.org

Eastwood Christian Academy 1701 East Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36123 At Eastwood, we desire to cultivate in each student a lifelong love of learning, and a pursuit of academic and moral excellence, for the purpose of bringing glory to God alone. (334) 272.8195

eastwoodschool.org

Hooper Academy 380 Fischer Road Hope Hull, AL 36043 Our mission is to provide a balanced and quality curriculum, which allows each student the op-

portunity to achieve full potential and maximize mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual growth. (334) 288.5980

hooperacademy.org

Montessori @ Mulberry 2034 Clubview Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Each child is encouraged to reach his/her full potential in all areas of life. The specific needs of individual children are met at each developmental level. Our curriculum, which is challenging, interdisciplinary and real world related, provides a strong academic bridge to elementary school. (334) 265.7733

montessoriatmulberry.com

Success Unlimited 2328 Fairlane Drive and 4500 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Montgomery’s foremost institution dedicated to individualized education. SUA provides a safe and loving environment where students feel accepted and are challenged by educational excellence, instilled with loyalty to our country, and developed through spiritual growth. (334) 213.0803

suacademy.com

Valiant Cross 301 Dexter Avenue (located inside of River City Church) Montgomery, AL 36104 Our mission, our purpose is to help raise young men up to be supernatural. Men who will learn from their youth, to let go of self, to let the Holy Spirit raise them to new heights. Courageous men, righteous men, committed men, loving men who will rise up to lead, to serve, to inspire. We will provide the armor to help them rise above. To rise above with Honor, with Discipline, with Integrity, with Excellence with Love. (334) 694.9200

Valiantcross.org

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Public Schools Autauga County Public Schools 153 W. 4th St Millbrook and Prattville, AL 36067 Learning today, Leading tomorrow. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar. (334) 365.5706

acboe.net

Elmore County Public Schools 100 H. H. Robison Drive Wetumpka, AL 36092 Every student Empowered! Every student Succeeds! Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar. (334) 567.1200

elmoreco.com

Montgomery Public Schools 307 S. Decatur Street Montgomery , AL 36110 Our mission is to engage, educate and inspire our students to succeed in college, career and beyond. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar. (334) 223.6700

mps.k12.al.us

Pike Road Public School 696 Georgia Washington Rd Pike Road, AL 36064 Think, Innovate, Create the Pike Road way. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar. (334) 420.5301

pikeroadschools.org

Tutors Churchill Academy Tutoring ad on page 31

395 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery, AL 36117 Tutoring available for summer. One on one tutoring for Grades K-12. (334) 270.4225

churchillacademy.net

Mathnasium ad on page 23

3453 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 We are the authority in math education. Changing lives through Math. (334) 356.1570

mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery

Sylvan Learning Center ad on page 15

4240 Lomac Street Montgomery , AL 36106 Offering tutoring in Study Skills, Math, ACT/SAT Prep, Writing, Reading and Homework help.. (334) 262.0043

sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

The Learning Tree

Local River Region 4th of July Events Please visit City of Millbrook, Montgomery, Pike Road, Prattville and Wetumpka for their 4th of July Events and check our 4th of July listing in this issue.

ad on page 47

Growing Independence Behavioral Services for children with Autism. Applied Behavior Analysis assessment and treatment for preschool and school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. (334) 425.6418

learning-tree.org

Read & Write Learning Center 3240 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Our services include multisensory instruction in reading, math, grammar and writing and comprehension. (334) 328.2134

readwritelearningcenter.com

Annual EventsOctober through December Alabama National Fair Garrett Coliseum Montgomery, AL 36107 Action packed 10 days held in October. Come join us for fun, food, rides and music. Please visit website for performers.

sylvanlearning.com

Where to Play

(334) 272.6831

Broadway Under the Stars Blount Cultural Park Montgomery, AL 36117 A night filled with music from some of your Broadway favorites. Come prepared with blankets, chairs, coolers and food for this free concert. montgomerysymphony.org

Farmer’s Market Eastchase Montgomery, AL 36117 Come visit us in Eastchase on Saturday mornings through September for local vendors and farmers. You will find anything from homemade soaps, farm fresh veggies and more. Opens in May. (334) 279.6046

shoppesateastchase.com

alnationalfair.org

Camellia Bowl Crampton Bowl Montgomery, AL 36104 This is an NCAA sanctioned FBS college football game held sometime in December.

Annual EventsJuly through September

(334) 240.4004

russelllandsonlakemartin.com

(334) 567.5147 Facebook under Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music and Arts Festival

suacademy.com

Sylvan Learning of Prattville 206 Fairview Avenue Prattville, AL 36066 Providing support in study skill and homework help, math, writing, reading, STEM & Robotics sessions and ACT/SAT Prep. (334) 212.8448

(256) 397.1019

Wetumpka River and Blues Festival Gold Star Park Wetumpka, AL 36092 Annual free event usually held in July features arts, crafts, music and more! Held annually in July.

Success Unlimited 2328 Fairlane Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 Tutoring available for any subject by certified teachers. (334) 213.0803

Russell Lands Fourth of July Blast Lake Martin Amphitheatre Eclectic, AL 36024 Russell Lands puts on a show annually at Lake Martin. Fun filled night with concerts and huge firework display. Beautiful if viewed from the lake or amphitheater. Please visit website for more details.

(404) 862.4730

camelliabowl.com

Christmas on the Coosa Gold Star Park Wetumpka, AL 36092 Annual Christmas parade held on the Coosa River with decorated boats at night. The festival also offers art/crafts, street parade, classic cars and more. (334) 567.5147

cityofwetumpka.com

Daddy Daughter Diamond Princess Ball 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 A fundraiser that allows daddy’s and daughters to have that special night out. Open to girls ages 6th grade and under. Held in December. (334) 240.4500

oldalabamatown.com

A L A B A M A D A N C E T H E AT R E

SUMMER 2022 L E A P I N TO YO U R S U M M E R T R A I N I N G !

REGISTRATION OPENS APRIL 6 FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS AVAILABLE

TUTUS & TIARAS

MAY 31 - JUNE 3

SUMMER CLASSES

JUNE 6 - JULY 8

SUMMER INTENSIVE

JULY 11 - 25

STARS ON THE RIVERFRONT JULY 24 - 25 Kate Seale Smith, Artistic Director

WWW.ALABAMADANCETHEATRE.COM River Region Parents I June 2022

www.riverregionparents.com

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VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

JUNE 20-24 | 9 AM TO NOON Ages 4* through 6th grade // Free

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY JUNE 12

montgomeryfbc.org/vbs *Child must have turned 4 by September 1, 2021 to attend VBS. 61

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Frontier Days at Fort Toulouse 2521 W. Fort Toulouse Rd Wetumpka, AL 36093 One of the largest and authentic living history events in Alabama. Demonstrates life on the southern frontier during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Held in November. (334) 567.3002

fttoulousejackson.org

Junior League Market The Multiplex at Cramton Bowl Montgomery, AL 36104 Annual Holiday Market held in October. (334) 288.8816

jlmontgomery.org

Montgomery Christmas Parade Capitol Building Montgomery, AL 36104 Annual parade that kicks of city celebration of Christmas begins at the steps of the capitol and ends at the Court Square. (334) 625.4400

visitingmontgomery.com

Montgomery Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 The orchestra plays everyone’s favorite holiday songs. Great concert for family traditions. (334) 240.4004

montgomerysymphony.org

Tavern Fest 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Popular event downtown featuring craft beer, live music, food, silent auction and much, much more! (334) 240.4500

oldalabamatown.com

Turkey Day Classic 915 South Jackson St Montgomery, AL 36104 Alabama State University’s traditional Thanksgiving Day football game. (334) 229.4100

bamastatesports.com

River Region Parents I June 2022

Annual EventsApril through June Alabama Book Festival 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 A wonderful lineup of regional authors from every genre. Lots to do with author panels, quiz shows, children’s activity area, live music, theatre, vendors, food and more. Held in April. (334) 240.4500

alabamabookfestival.org

Flimp Festival 1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Free Art festival featuring over a dozen art activities, chalk, live music performances, games and food vendors. Held in May. (334) 625.4333

mmfa.org

Fountain City Arts Festival in Prattville Downtown Prattville, AL 36067 A fun filled day with literary works, artist, musicians and more. Held in April (334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

Herb Day Grace Presbyterian Church, corner of the Atlanta Highway and Bell Rd. Montgomery, AL 36117 Heirloom organic vegetable plants and herbs. Held in April/May. (334) 245.3508

www.alabamaherbsociety.org

Prattville CityFest 131 North Court Street Prattville, AL 36067 Visit our local vendors, enjoy the food vendors, fun area for the kids to play, live music and more. Held in May. (334) 365.7392

prattvillecityfest.com

Ride for Freedom Bus Tour 210 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Meet with a Freedom Rider, Historians, Activists

and other locals to hear the story from those who lived it and where it happened. Held in May. (334) 414.8647 Museum

Facebook at Freedom Rides

River Jam Music Festival Riverfront Amphitheatre Montgomery, AL 36104 Annual Music Festival held at Riverfront Park. Please visit website to see Heading and other performers. Food vendors and beverages available. Held in May. (334) 625.2100

funinmontgomery.com

Seafood and Arts Festival Union Station, 300 Water St Montgomery, AL 36104 Delicious seafood, arts and crafts. Benefits Child Protect. Held in April. (334) 625.2100

funinmontgomery.com

Sounds of Summer Concert Series Eastchase Montgomery, AL 36117 Eastchase serves up a series of summer concerts and they are FREE! You can visit our their website for dates and who’s playing. Begins in June. (334) 279.6046

shoppesateastchase.com

Sweet Creeks Spring Chicken Festival 85 Meriwether Road Pike Road, AL 36064 Free Event with live music, BBQ cook-off, kids activities, handcrafted booths and more. Held in April. (334) 280.3276

Annual EventsJanuary through March Millbrook Reveler Mardi Gras Festival and Parade Village Green Millbrook, AL 36054 Largest Mardi Gras celebration north of Mobile. Lots of vendors and activities for the children. (334) 467.6726

millbrookrevelers.org

www.riverregionparents.com

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Ice Palace at Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 Skate indoors year round.

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(334) 568.2041

launchtrampolinepark.com

Rockin Jump 5544 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 Jump and soar in our open trampoline park. Café and tables provided for parents.

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shopmalls.com

Launch Trampoline Park 891 Boardroom Drive Prattville, AL 36066 Looking for something to do indoors? Launch Trampoline Park has trampoline courts, Dodge ball, Basketball, Knockout, Launch Pad, Tumble Traks, Laser Tag, The Challenger, Battle Pit, Launch Eats and Arcade.

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(334) 239.2587

rockinjump.com

Local Attractions Prattville Mardi Gras Parade Downtown Prattville Prattville, AL 36067 Let the good times roll! Come join the fun with great food, arts, crafts, inflatables and the parade. Bring a bag and expect to catch some candy and beads. (334) 358.0297

prattvilleal.gov

Southeastern Livestock Exposition Rodeo Garrett Coliseum Montgomery, AL 36107 Grab your lasso and come on out and have some fun! We’ve got Cowboys, Cowgirls, Rodeo Clowns, Live performances and Xtreme bullfights. (888) 2RODEO2

bamabeef.org

Alabama Department of Archive & History 624 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130 Take a glimpse into Alabama’s past with valuable preserved records and artifacts at the Alabama Department of Archives and History.

Fun for Kids Newtopia

(334) 242.4435

ad on page 65

archives.state.al.us

3731 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 Large indoor play arena with many activities for your children to enjoy. Café with free wifi available for parents to sit back and relax while their children play.

Alabama State Capitol 600 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130 Schedule a tour of one of the oldest capitols and learn about the history of Alabama.

2211 Ultimate Playzone 3541 McGehee Road Montgomery, AL 36111 Great place for some family fun! Roller skating

Biscuits Baseball 200 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Love baseball? Come join us for a great season of

(334) 356.4518

newtopiafunpark.com

(334) 242.3184

ahc.alabama.gov

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

of the people who settled and developed Central Alabama. (334) 240.4500

2022 2021

oldalabamatown.com

The Alley 133 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Modeled after New Orleans, the Alley offers unique restaurants, bars and shops. (334) 387.3333

alleystation.com

W.A. Gayle Planetarium 1010 Forest Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 Auditorium setting with a 50 foot domed ceiling. View the planets, sky and many other show throughout the year. Located in the beautiful Oak Park. (334) 625.4799

montgomery.troy.edu/planet

Parks Blount Cultural Park 3 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Open play area and miles of walking trails. Shakespeare Garden, Dog Park and ponds on sight. (334) 625.2300

Biscuits Baseball at the Riverwalk Stadium. Concessions available. Stay and watch the fireworks after scheduled games. (334) 323.2255

milb.com

Blount Cultural Park Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Beautiful park located between ASF and MMFA. Bring the kids to fly a kite, have a picnic by one of the beautiful lakes or walk the many walking trails. Visit the Shakespeare garden and the dog park. (334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Centre for African American Culture 1345 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Offers classroom instruction and curriculum through its living museum, seminars, and publications. Is open to all who are interested in studying the modern civil rights movement. (334) 229.4824

lib.alasu.edu

Civil Rights Memorial Center 400 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 The Civil Rights Memorial was built to honor the 41 people killed in the struggle for equal and integrated treatment of all people.

Harriott II 255 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Enjoy a scenic ride on the Alabama River on the Harriott II. Book for parties and reserve a spot on their dinner cruises. Scenic lunch and dinner cruises available. (334) 625.2100

funontheriver.net

Meteor Crater 408 S. Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 One of the greatest natural disasters in the history of Alabama. Come see the 5 mile wide impact crater. (334) 567.5147

meteorcrater.com

Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110 This 40 acre zoo is divided into 5 continents. Ride the skylift, rent a paddle boat, take a train or walk the beautifully landscaped pathways to view over 500 animals. (334) 240.4900

montgomeryzoo.com

Governor’s Mansion 1142 S. Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 13 First families have resided here in the past 60+ years. Free guided tours with reservations. (334) 242.7100

governor.alabama.gov

River Region Parents I June 2022

funinmontgomery.com

Lagoon Park 2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36109 5 miles of biking and walking trails, playgrounds, batting cages and tennis courts. (334) 240.4050

funinmontgomery.com

Memorial Center Park 3168 Park Circle Millbrook, AL 36054 Walking trails, creek and Kids Kingdom Playground. (334) 285.7277

cityofmillbrook.org

Pratt Park 460 Doster Road Prattville, AL 36067 Walking trails, “A Child’s Place” Playground, Splash pad and community pool. (334) 595.0080

prattvilleal.gov

funinmontgomery.com

Vaughn Road Park 3620 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Boundless playgrounds, tennis courts and walking trails and large open play space. (334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Parks for Dogs Cooter’s Pond 1844 Cooter’s Pond Prattville, AL 36066 Located on the banks of the river. Fenced in area for your pups to play with shade and fountains.

(334) 263.3970 dexterkingmemorial.com

firstwhitehouse.org

(334) 625.2300

(334) 625.2100

Dextre Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church 454 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 Known for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s hope and change speech.

(334) 242.1861

Ida Bell Young Park 5400 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Playground, tennis courts and walking trails. Picnic area and bathrooms available.

Riverfront Park 335 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Entertainment on the banks of the Alabama River. Splash pad, river boat rides, concerts at the Amphitheatre and biscuits baseball near by.

splcenter.org

First White House of the Confederacy 644 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 The residence where President Jefferson Davis and his family resided when the Confederate States of American was in Montgomery.

funinmontgomery.com

National Memorial for Peace and Justice 417 Carolina Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Dedicated to the legacy of enslaved African Americans. Reflect America’s history of racial inequality. (334) 386.9100

museumandmemorial.eji.org

Old Alabama Town 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Old Alabama Town is a collection of restored 19th and 20th Century structures that display the lives

(334) 595.0800

prattvilleal.gov

Hannah Daye Ridling Bark Park 6055 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 5 acre park made especially for your furry pet. Separate areas for large and small dogs. Benches and shade available. (334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Rotary Dog Park Rotary Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Dog park located downtown near the Riverfront.

www.riverregionparents.com

WE ARE MORE THAN A RADIO STATION, we are your prayer partner

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TUNE TO 89.1 FM • DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP LISTEN LIVE ON FAITH RADIO.ORG • TELL YOUR SMART HOME DEVICE “PLAY WLBF”

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Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Sports Club 4758 Wetumpka Road Wetumpka, AL 36110 Choose from clay courses, covered 5-stand, wobble trap, skeet field, and continental pheasant hunts.

2022 2021

(334) 420.3371

lwssc.com

Montgomery Bicycle Club Recreational and competitive bicycling promoted for the Central Alabama area and increase bicycle safety awareness. Rides listed on our website. mgmbikeclub.org

Montgomery Miracle League Where every child deserves a chance. We provide opportunities for children and adults with physical/cognitive disabilities. (334) 300.1088

montgomeryamerican.com

River Region Runners Dedicated to serving all levels of runners. Be kept up to date on local runs, receive discounts on runs and merchandise, build friendships and gain support with other local runners. (334) 595.9786

Features water fountains dog sized and separate areas for large and small dogs. (334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Recreation O’ Connor Tennis Center ad on page 24

500 Anderson Street Montgomery, AL 36107 O’Connor Tennis Center features a 12 court facility + two 36’ courts for children. Ben Bradshaw is a certified USPTA Elite professional who teaches private lessons. Multiple tennis lessons and clinics available. Please visit our website for more information. (334) 240.4884

oconnortenniscenter.com

Alabama Nature Center 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL 36054 Outdoor facility that offers nature walks, educational programs, Day Camps, Homeschool programs and seasonal programs. (334) 285.4550

alabamawildlife.org

Civil Axe Throwing 39 Dextre Avenue, Unit 2 Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 209.5576

civilaxethrowing.com

Coosa Outdoor Center 172 River Road Wetumpka, AL 36092 Everything you need for some fun on the Coosa! Rentals, Campgrounds and Event sites available. (334) 201.5510

coosaoutdoorcenter.com

YMCA Prattville

Coosa River Adventures 415 Company Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Paddle along the Coosa River for fun.

972 McQueen Smith Rd S Prattville, AL 36066 We offer Childcare, Education and Leadership, Swim, Sports & Play and Camp. Please visit our website for more information on our 5 locations and pricing.

Lagoon Park & Golf 2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36109 18-hold public golf course. Lighted driving range, chipping and putting area and private lessons.

ad on page 41

(334) 365.5582

prattvilleymca.org

River Region Parents I June 2022

(334) 514.0279

(334) 240.4050

coosariveradventures.com

playmontgomerygolf.com

riverregionrunners.org

Swayback Bike Trail Jordan Dam Road Wetumpka , AL 36092 On the shores of Lake Jordan and offers 12 miles of biking/hiking. (334) 567.9090

trailoflegends.org

YMCA Grandview 4700 Camp Grandview Rd Millbrook, AL 36054 Large facility with pools, Indoor basketball court, camps and sports. Please call for more information about what we have to offer and pricing. (334) 290.9622

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Montgomery 880 South Lawrence St Montgomery, AL 36104 Choose from many of our programs: Childcare & Early Learning, Fitness, Swimming, Camps, Youth Sports, Adult Sports, Youth Programs, Senior Programs and Adventure Guides. Please visit our website for more information about our 12 locations what they have to offer. (334) 269.4362

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Wetumpka 200 Red Eagle Drive Wetumpka, AL 36092 We offer adult sports, aquatics, before and after school childcare, Summer Day Camps and Youth Sports. Please call for more information and pricing. (334) 567.8282

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Your family has survived the testing, the essays, the applications and the waiting game. Now it’s time to teach your college-bound child some important skills before they head out of the house and explore the world on their own.

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Here are some basic things I’ll be working on with my own college-bound teens, and summer is the perfect time to do it!

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1. How to wash clothes. Wash light and dark clothes separately. Put a set of clothing in the washer, add detergent based on product recommendations, and wash everything on warm just to be safe. Never put “dry clean only” clothing in a regular washing machine. Once clothes are washed, put them in the dryer on a medium temperature for about 40 minutes or as long as a specific setting runs. River Region Parents I June 2022

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www.riverregionparents.com

2. How to cook a decent meal to save time and money. Start with basics like how to scramble eggs, boil pasta

and bake pizza in the oven (Recipes.com and YouTube are amazing teachers!). Work your way up to assembling casseroles and putting together slow cooker meals.

3. How to change a tire (and other maintenance). Always have a spare tire in the vehicle you drive, as well as a jack, flashlight, rain poncho and gloves. Parents, you should help teach this one a few times until the college-bound young adult gets the hang of it.

4. How to budget money. Track your income and spending in a small notebook or Excel spreadsheet so you can be realistic about how much you’re spending. If you know something is coming up that you’ll need money for, make a note about it and save in other ways or figure out income-earning opportunities. 5. How to manage money and the difference between a credit card and a debit card. A debit card needs a PIN because money comes from a bank account right away. A credit card needs a signature because you’re agreeing to pay interest and anything you owe at a later date. Kids, make sure you know how to balance a checkbook (or keep a watch on your account balance) so you don’t get that debit card declined!

6. What an advanced care directive is and why you should have one. Once you turn 18, the law states

that you can make your own medical decisions. Since you’re away from home, you need to think about what you would want done in the event of a life-threatening accident. A living will gives specific instructions, while a durable power of attorney is when you assign someone to make the decisions for you.

7. How to manage time. You might just have a part-time

job along with classes, homework and social time. Just like with money, getting real makes a huge difference. Google Calendar is a great on-the-go option and different activities can be colorcoded so you can see where you might have a free block of time, or where you may be double-booking yourself.

8. How to refill a prescription. Make sure you have insurance information at the ready so it can be logged in the database, and find a drugstore that will take your insurance. The first time you do this, you will likely need to contact your doctor so he/she can contact the pharmacy, but after that refills should be smooth sailing. 9. How to deal with people. There truly is an art to

bringing up grievances and respectfully disagreeing with people such as authority figures and roommates. You don’t have to be a doormat when arguing your case with a professor, doctor, boss, but you also don’t have to always go for the win.

10. How to use student transit and/or public transportation. You’re not the only college kid to arrive

without a car, or to decide parking on campus is too expensive. Check out your university’s transit schedule and other forms of public transportation in your college town. Now that you have some important basics down, relax and enjoy your college experience. rrp Kerrie McLoughlin is the seasoned homeschooling mom of 5 and author of The Tater Tot Casserole Cookbook.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

be one of the best ever! The Lake Martin Amphitheater is located on Highway 63 about 1 mile south of Kowaliga Bridge. For more information call (256) 397. 1019 or visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com

Callaway July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party

in the

River Region

Annual Flag Boat Parade Monday, July 4, beginning at 10 a.m. at Kowaliga Marina on Lake Martin. Boats of all sizes parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor and back. Onlookers from the shoreline and water can watch free of charge. Boat registration is due by July 1. Forms can be picked up at any Russell Marine location - Kowaliga, Real Island, The Ridge and River North. For out-of-towners, call (256) 397.1210 to request a form. Registration is free.

Prattville Celebration 2022 Schedule of Events Patriotic Concert Sunday, July 3rd at 3 p.m., Doster Center Featuring patriotic pieces performed by the Prattville Pops and Community Chorus Annual 4th of July Parade On Monday, July 4th at 9am, family members of all ages will enjoy the fire engines, candy, floats and more. This years Grand Marshals will be announced shortly. Bring your lawn chair and set up early for a good spot along the parade route. Begins at the River Region Parents I June 2022

Autauga County Courthouse. For more information, call 595-0854. Annual Lion’s Club BBQ The annual Lion’s Club Bar-B-Q and Camp Stew Sale will take place at Pratt Park July 4th from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. There will be music, a patriotic program, bake sale and arts and crafts. Cardboard Boat Races and the Pratt Pool will be open for public swimming July 4th from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Call 358.1068 for info. Fireworks Presentation July 4th and takes place at the Home Place Clock Tower fireworks begin at dark. Visit www.prattvilleal.gov for information

Russell Lands Fourth of July Blast Join us on the grassy lawn at The AMP for the 4th of July Concert and the Southeast’s largest fireworks show. We are in the planning stages but rest assured when you join us you will have a fun time with great music – then we light the sky with a million colors! Claim your spot early and get ready to have some fun!Don’t miss this one! It’ll 70

The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at our annual July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach activities, live music and our annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Be sure to pack plenty of red, white and blue for this All-American Weekend! Stay tuned for complete schedule of events. Please visit www. callawaygardens.com for more information.

Pike Road Summer Fest

Thursday, June 30 from 5pm-9pm. The Town of Pike Road is excited to invite the community to SummerFest at SweetCreek Farm Market on the evening of June 30. This community celebration of patriotic spirit will be a nod back to the history of our community and this annual tradition. Of course, there will be fireworks! Stay tuned for more information as this family-friendly event approaches. For information, call (334) 272.9883 or visit www.Pikeroad.us.

Wetumpka Celebration Friday, July 1st from 6-8:30 p.m. Music by Slim and the Soulful Saints Fireworks will be at 8:30 p.m. Gold Star Park with food, face painting and more. Please visit for more information and updates or call (334) 567.5147.

Cloverdale-Idlewild Parade Monday, July 4, at 2 p.m. at the corner of Plymouth and Lexington. Ends at Bottom Park on Cloverdale Rd. Drums, bikes, floats; 6 p.m. there will be a band. Dress in your red, white and blue and join this old fashioned 4th of July celebration. Contact Charlie Colvin, 834.6030. www.riverregionparents.com

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#TSDC STRONG

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection DC Strutters took home all Platinum awards for their group dances at American Dance Championships Competition in Columbus, GA. They also took home Diamond awards at Inspire Competition at MPAC. Senior dancers this year are Savannah Milner, Madylin Edwards & Selena Knighton. Several Judges awards were given also! Winning is a wonderful thing, but it’s the journey and teamwork that is priceless!

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Share your announcements and photos celebrating youth accomplishments across the River Region! Send to editor@ riverregionparents.com.

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Day and Overnight Summer Camp Options

At Y summer camp, your kids will make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day.

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Camp Grandview, Camp Chandler, and Summer Goodtimes Day Camp

FIND YOUR Y AT YMCA of Greater Montgomery ENROLL TODAY

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

FamilyCalendar Thursday June 2

City of Wetumpka Farmers Market (free) 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, 304 E. Coosa Street, 304 E. Coosa Street Wetumpka, AL, 36092 City of Wetumpka Farmers Market Season will run every Thursday starting May 19th - August 25th. www.facebook.com/City-of-Wetumpka-FarmersMarket-110897704513587 The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Wetumpka Depot, 300 South Main St. Wetumpka, AL, 36092 This award-winning play has won acclaim on Broadway, in film and as a TV movie. Enjoy an evening filled with humor and heart. (334) 868-1440 www.wetumpkadepot.com

Friday June 3

Friday on the Green

(free)

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Russell Crossroads on the Town Green, 19 Russell Farms Rd. Alexander City, AL, 35010 Grab your comfy stuff, kids, friends and leash for the pup and claim your spot on the Town Green to kick off the season with music by Daniel and McDaniel! www.russellcrossroads.com/events.html The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) Details June 2.

Saturday June 4

EastChase Farmers Market 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, The Shoppes at EastChase near Sephora, 7274 EastChase Parkway Montgomery, AL, 36117 The market will be located near Sephora and H&M. This year is going to be bigger and better than ever with all of your favorite vendors and some fun, new vendors! https://www.theshoppesateastchase.com/event/ farmers-market-3/2022-05-21/ Prattville Farmer’s Market 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, The Grove on Doster Road, 322 Doster Rd. Prattville, AL, 36067 The Prattville Farmers Market will open its 2022 Season on Saturday, June 4, from 7am-12noon. There will be local and regional growers, bakers and makers, special giveaways, fun activities, a guest chef, and live music. The market will be open every Saturday from 7am-12 noon through August 27. (334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov/ Central AL March for Babies 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St Montgomery, AL, 36104 Join the movement to fight for the health of every mom and baby. The U.S. remains among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth, especially for women and babies of color—but together we can make a difference. 1-888-274-3711 https://www.marchforbabies.org/ event/centralal Kayak Trail Fun Run 10:00 AM Creek Walk behind City Hall, Prattville, AL, 36067 Come take an exciting ride down the Autauga Creek. Lots of beautiful sites, bamboo, waterfalls and beautiful foliage. You must provide your own equipment, (canoe, kayak, paddleboard, life jackets, sunglasses, drinking water, sunblock etc.). No glass or alcoholic beverages allowed. A bus will be waiting to shuttle you back (no charge) to the starting point. The last shuttle will leave the creek walk area at 9:45am. (334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov/

River Region Parents I June 2022

Wetumpka Cruiser 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Dowtown Wetumpka, E Commerce St. Wetumpka, AL, 36092 This is a special showcase of antique cars located in Downtown Wetumpka on E Commerce Street, 3pm-6pm. Enjoy the show! http://www.cityofwetumpka.com/ The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) Details June 2.

Sunday June 5

Summer Brunch ($45.00) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Verde Cafe Montgomery Museum, 1 Museum Drive Montgomery , AL, 36117 Limited Seating. Registration closes on June 2 at 5 PM. Brunch is $45 per person all-inclusive and includes two mimosas. (334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 2:00 PM Details June 2. Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters 7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 The Boxmasters have recorded an impressive and diverse catalogue of music that touches on their love of a wide array of influences, but most importantly, the rock and roll of the 1960’s. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org

Monday June 6

Swim Lessons at Pratt Pool ($50) Pratt Pool, 460 Doster Rd. Prattville , AL, 36067 Swim lessons for ages 3 & up. Space is limited, sign your child up now. There will be no refunds once a session begins. Days lost to inclement weather will not be made up. 1st Session: June 6 – 17; 2nd Session: June 20 – July 1; 3rd Session: July 11 - 22 (334) 595-0800 www.prattvilleal.gov/

Tuesday June 7

Wetumpka Nutrition Class ($5 member/$10 nonmember) 9:15 AM Wetumpka YMCA, 200 Red Eagle Rd. Wetumpka , AL, 36092 This class meets the first Tuesday of every month in Group X Room. This class will teach simple ways to properly fuel the body in order to sustain a healthy weight, healthy heart, and healthy brain function. (334) 567-8282 www.ymcamontgomery.org/specialevents/ Thrifty Tuesdays at the Zoo 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL, 36110 The Montgomery Zoo is proud to announce our summer discounted admissions promotion, THRIFTY TUESDAYS. Receive 50% OFF admissions every Tuesday afternoon, beginning June 7 - July 26, 2022 (with the exception of Tuesday, June 14, 2022). Tickets must be purchased in person, 12pm (noon) - 4pm (Tuesdays only) in order to receive the discounted admission. This discount cannot be combined with any other discount, coupon, and/or offer. (334) 625-4905 www.montgomeryzoo.com/

Wednesday June 8

Biscuits Baseball Military Wednesday 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Active, veteran, and retired military

personnel with a military ID will receive admission, food, and drink discounts throughout the stadium! (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com

Thursday June 9

City of Wetumpka Farmers Market (free) Details June 2. Biscuits Baseball Tank Top Giveaway 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 The first 1,000 fans 15 & older will go home with a summer tank-top pres. by ALFA Insurance! (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Wetumpka Depot, 300 South Main St. Wetumpka, AL, 36092 This award-winning play has won acclaim on Broadway, in film and as a TV movie. Enjoy an evening filled with humor and heart. (334) 868-1440 www.wetumpkadepot.com

Friday June 10

Alex City Jazz Fest (free) 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM, Strand Park, Alexander City, AL The Alexander City Jazz Fest’s Friday’s night show will take place at Strand Park. This event is non-ticketed and paid for by a great group of sponsors from the area. www.theamponlakemartin.com/events.html The Fairy and Lumberjack ($12.50) 6:00 PM Davis Theatre, 251 Montgomery St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Korean traditional dance, choreographed by a native Korean dancer and Alabama screenwriter and director, Angela Dickson has woven cultures together to produce a tragic love story about a lonely lumberjack who married a fairy. www.eventbrite.com/e/the-fairy-and-the-lumberjacktickets-277167835457 Biscuits Baseball Family Faith Night 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Enjoy fellowship at the ballpark as groups from churches all across the River Region join us for a night of faith-based music and games! (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Details June 2.

Saturday June 11 Eastchase Farmers Market Details June 4.

Alex City Jazz Fest (free) 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM, The AMP, 8878 Kowaliga Rd. Eclectic, AL, 36024 The Alexander City Jazz Fest’s Saturday night show will take place at The AMP. This event is non-ticketed and paid for by a great group of sponsors from the area www.theamponlakemartin.com/events.html Biscuits Baseball - Youth Sports Night and Fireworks 6:05 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 A celebration of all the great achievements of local sports teams! Stick around after the game for a MAX Fireworks Show! (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Details June 2.

www.riverregionparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Sunday June 12

RNB Blues Picnic ($25 and up) 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM, River Walk Park - Ampitheater, 355 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Montgomery’s R&B and Blues Picnic is in the heart of the city at River Walk Amphitheater. DJ’s, Food, Music, Games. www.rnbbluespicnic.com Michaels Sunday Makebreak: Father’s Day Coaster 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Michaels, All Locations Prattville, Montgomery, AL Come into your local Michaels and take a break and make with us! This free wood burned coaster is the perfect father’s day gift. This event is available at all Michaels locations! www.michaels.com/ Biscuits Baseball - Kids Sunglasses Giveaway 3:30 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 The first 500 kids 14 & under will receive Biscuits-themed sunglasses! Bring your leashed 4-legged best friend out to Riverwalk for some Biscuits baseball! Don’t forget to join the Lil’ Crumbs Kids Club pres. by Go Fish Alabama, offering complimentary Sunday game tickets along with a variety of other perks. (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com

Tuesday June 14

Military Appreciation Days at the Zoo (free) 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL, 36110 Montgomery Zoo invites all active duty and retired military personnel to visit the Zoo for free on Military Appreciation Days, June 14-16. Maxwell Air Force Base, the Zoo, the Montgomery Chamber, and local sponsors partner to hold this annual event that recognizes our national heroes. (334) 625-4905 www.montgomeryzoo.com/ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2nd Tuesday Programs (free) 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 The MMFA is open late from 5 to 9 PM on the second Tuesday of each month. Enjoy all of the things that make the Museum great including special events and programs. (334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org Creekwalk Concert Series Heritage Park Downtown Prattville, Prattville, AL, 36067 Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a free concert by the beautiful Autauga Creek. Creekwalk Concerts will be held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of June and July and will feature local and regional bands (334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov

Wednesday June 15

Military Appreciation Days at the Zoo (free) Details June 14.

Thursday June 16

Military Appreciation Days at the Zoo (free) Details June 14. Food for Thought (free) 12:00 PM Alabama Department of History and Archives, 624 Washington Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36130 Alabama history lunchtime lecture series, Food for Thought are held on the third Thursday of every

month at 12:00 pm CT. Programs are presented both in-person at the ADAH and online via the ADAH’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. This month Joshua Burford presents The Invisible Histories Project. (334) 242-4435 www.archives.alabama.gov/ City of Wetumpka Farmers Market (free) Details June 2.

Friday June 1

Sunday June 19

Father’s Day at the Zoo (All Dad’s FREE) 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL, 36110 Celebrate Father’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, Sunday, June 19. All Dad’s receive FREE admission, so make plans to join us for Dad’s special day. (334) 625-4905 www.montgomeryzoo.com/

Art Walk Wetumpka (free) 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Historic Downtown Wetumpka, Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Take a stroll through the streets of downtown Wetumpka and shop from talented local artists. Third Friday of the month, April to November. www.mainstreetwetumpka.org/events/2022/4/15/artwalk-wetumpka

Michaels Sunday Makebreak: Father’s Day You Rock Canvas 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Michaels, All Locations Prattville, Montgomery, AL Come into your local Michaels and take a break and make with us! This free painted canvas is the perfect father’s day gify. This event is available at all Michaels locations! www.michaels.com/

Friday on the Green (free) 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Russell Crossroads on the Town Green, 19 Russell Farms Rd. Alexander City, AL, 35010 Grab your comfy stuff, kids, friends and leash for the pup and claim your spot on the Town Green to listen to the music of Rachael Wilson. www.russellcrossroads.com/events.html

Wednesday June 22

Saturday June 18 EastChase Farmers Market Details June 4.

Camp PRIDE (Personal Responsibility In Delivering Excellence) (free) 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Cramton Bowl, 1022 Madison Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Camp P.R.I.D.E. (Personal Responsibility In Delivering Excellence) is a unique opportunity for teens from the tri-county area. Registration for the football camp for young men between 8 - 18 years of age will be from 7:30am7:55am at Cramton Bowl. A volleyball camp will be held for young ladies between 8 -18 years of ages from 9:00am to 1:00pm at Multiplex at Cramton Bowl. Registration for volleyball will take place from 8:00am-8:30am at Multiplex. www.facebook.com/events/cramton-bowl/camppride-personal-responsibility-in-delivering-excellence/335826943999604/ Boards and Bubbles 10:00 AM Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue Montgomery, AL, 36104 In this hands on one day class, each student will not only learn the basics of building a charcuterie board, but they will also design and build a 10” charcuterie box to take home. Spaces will go fast, so plan ahead and register early! 334-625-2787 www.allevents.in/mobile/amp-event. php?event_id=200022289761821 Juneteenth at MMFA (free) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 With the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and Blount Cultural Park as our backdrop, this Juneteenth—a national holiday celebrating the emancipation of the last enslaved people in the Confederacy—we’ll rejoice with a focus on African American culture, creativity, and community. (334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org World Giraffe Day at the Zoo 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL, 36110 World Giraffe Day at the Montgomery Zoo, Saturday, June 18. World Giraffe Day is an exciting annual event initiated by Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) to celebrate the longest-necked animal at the Montgomery Zoo, and on the planet. (334) 625-4905 www.montgomeryzoo.com/

Biscuits Baseball - Military Wednesday presented by WOW! 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Active, veteran, and retired military personnel with a military ID will receive admission, food, and drink discounts throughout the stadium! (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com

Thursday June 23

City of Wetumpka Farmers Market (free) Details June 2. Biscuits Baseball - Fresh Baked T-shirt Giveaway 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Get here early to score a Fresh Baked T-Shirt pres. by The Waters! Only the first 1,000 fans 15 & older will get one. (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com

Friday June 24

Biscuits Baseball - Cookie Cutter Giveaway 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 We’re giving away a baseball cookie cutter to the first 1,000 fans of all ages! (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com Ricky Skaggs at the MPAC 7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Ricky Skaggs has often said that he is “just trying to make a living” playing the music he loves. Previously scheduled for June 26, 2022 at 7:00 PM. Previously purchased tickets will be honored for the new date. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org

Saturday June 25 EastChase Farmers Market Details June 4.

Character Toddler Time with Princess Beauty and Beauty’s Prince ($15) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Launch Trampoline Park, 891 Boardroom Dr. Prattville, AL Toddler Time is a special we offer for 5 & Under to come with their parents (or adult) to enjoy jump time and all of the attractions offered for kids who are their age and size! Toddler Time is ONLY $15 for 1 parent & 1 Toddler | $5 per additional toddler | $15 per additional parent (334) 568-2041 www.launchtrampolinepark.com

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FamilyCalendar Rock Country Roll Music Festival ($40 and up)

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM, River Walk Park - Ampitheater, 355 Coosa St. Montgomery AL, 36104 Come join us for Montgomery’s ROCK COUNTRY ROLL MUSIC FESTIVAL in the heart of the city at River Walk Amphitheater . We will be playing the best of Classic and New Rock & Country Music Bring your own cooler (No Glass). This event will be from 12noon untill 11pm, Saturday June 25th. 334-625-2100 www.rockcountryroll.com Biscuits Baseball - “Fan vs. Food” Challenge and Fireworks 6:05 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 We’ll select a few lucky fans to participate in our Food Challenge to see who will be the last standing and go home with a big prize! Stick around after the game for a MAX Fireworks Show! (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com

Sunday June 26

Michaels Sunday Makebreak: 3D Summer Wall Art 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, All Locations Prattville, Montgomery, AL Come into your local Michaels and take a break and make with us! Decorate your home with free summer craft canvas art! www.michaels.com/ Biscuits Baseball - Kids Baker Hat Giveaway 3:33 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. ontgomery, AL, 36104 The first 500 kids 14 & under will go home with a Baker hat! Bring your leashed 4-legged best friend out to Riverwalk for some Biscuits baseball! Don’t forget to join the Lil’ Crumbs Kids Club pres. by Go Fish Alabama, offering complimentary Sunday game tickets along with a variety of other perks. (334) 323-2255 www.milb.com

Tuesdays June 28

Creekwalk Concert Series Heritage Park Downtown Prattville, Prattville, AL, 36067 Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a free concert by the beautiful Autauga Creek. Creekwalk Concerts will be held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of June and July and will feature local and regional bands (334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov

Friday July 1

Wetumpka 4th of July Celebration 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Gold Star Park, Wetumpka , AL, 36092 Music by Slim and the Soulful Saints, food, face painting and more! Fireworks begin at 8:30 pm. (334) 567-5147 www.cityofwetumpka.com/

Sunday July 3

Prattville Patriotic Concert 3:00 PM Doster Center, 424 S Northington St Prattville, AL, 36067 Patriotic pieces performed by The Prattville Pops and Community Chorus. (334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov

Monday July 4

Prattville Independence Day Celebration 9:00 AM Downtown Prattville, Prattville , AL, 36067 Parade begins at 9 am. Next, head over to Pratt Park for the Annual Lions Club BBQ from 8 am until 2 pm, and stop by to cheer on the participants in the Cardboard Boat Races starting at 10:30 a.m at Pratt Pool. Finally, wrap up your day with the Independence Day Firework Celebration at the Homeplace Clocktower. Fireworks will begin at dark. (334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov 4th of July Fireworks and Concert The AMP, 8878 Kowaliga Rd. Eclectic, AL, 36024 Find your spot on the soft grass and soon the earth will

shake and the sky over Russell Lands On Lake Martin will burst into a thousand different colors. www.theamponlakemartin.com/events.html

Saturday July 16

MPAC presents Vince Gill 7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 An evening with Vince Gill at the MPAC. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org

Saturday and Sunday July 23 and 24

Trolls Live at MPAC Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Get ready for another hair-raising adventure when Poppy, Branch and their friends come to life on stage in Trolls LIVE!, their first ever live tour! Shows Saturday 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org

Through June 26

The Marvelous Wonderettes Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 1 Festival Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 This smash Off-Broadway hit takes us to the 1958 Springfield High School prom, where we meet and learn about the lives and loves of four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts. When the Wonderettes reunite to perform at their 10-year reunion, we learn about the highs and lows the girls have experienced in the past decade. Featuring more than 30 classic 50s and 60s hits. (334) 271-5353 www.asf.net

Please send calendar info to editor@riverregionparents.com.

River Region Parents I June 2022

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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases The Bad Guys

Talh

Sneakerella

Overall A

Violence B

Sex A

Profanity A-

Alcohol/Drugs A-

Disney+

Rating TV-G

Overall B

Violence B

Sex B+

Profanity B+

Alcohol/Drugs B

El has a passion for sneaker design and the beautiful girl he just met is looking for a designer with street cred to boost sales for her dad’s shoe company. They should be able to solve each other’s problems but there are some cruel stepbrothers and a few lies in the way before the young couple can find their happily ever after. This gender flipped remake of Cinderella comes with an exuberant soundtrack, clean content, and strong messages about honesty and hard work. There are no surprises here, but the familiar story still has some charm. Photo © Disney+

tim-

gh eet and pes r hs e.

Rating PG

The Bad Guys are a notorious gang with a knack for pulling off successful heists – until their luck turns. To stay out of prison, they have agreed to take “goodness lessons” and turn over a new leaf. This movie does the impossible: it tells a fun heist story at a kid-friendly level. Even adults will find themselves involved in the character arcs, laughing at the jokes, and appreciating the story’s themes about biases, stereotypes, and the intrinsic value of doing good. Photo ©Universal Pictures

ir rst

Theaters

Marmaduke

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

TV-Y7

B+

The Winslows are astonished when a champion dog trainer tells them that their rambunctious Great Dane, Marmaduke, has potential. In fact, the trainer is so confident, he enters Marmaduke in a dog show. For the first 40 minutes, this film drifts along on a tide of predictable mediocrity until it takes a sharp turn into offensive ethnic stereotypes and casual racism. The animation, despite an attempt at clever stylization, looks like it came from a video game and the voice acting is somehow worse. This film aims low and succeeds. Photo © Netflix

Along for the Ride

Netflix

Rating TV-14

Overall B

Violence A-

Sex B-

Profanity C-

Alcohol/Drugs C+

Auden has decided to spend the summer after high school with her dad, breaking free from her critical mother and her own intense, socially awkward self. In the beach community, Auden meets Eli, an insomniac with his own burdens. This is a good-hearted teen summer romance flick with comparatively light negative content. The romance is sweet and messages about courage, self-confidence, and loss are delivered without being preachy. Photo ©Netflix

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

Theaters

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B-

C-

C+

After fending off a colossal tentacled monster, Doctor Stephen Strange finds a girl bearing the corpse of another Dr. Strange from a parallel realm. As Marvel continues to explore the Multiverse, the storyline gets much darker. The strong horror elements in the story make it unsuitable for children as do scenes involving demons, torture, and gruesome death. Older Marvel fans will appreciate the complexity of the story and the return of Wanda Maximoff as a villain. Photo ©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 75

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going to Friday night football games (football is not a sport we play in Argentina) to enjoy our boys playing in the band during halftime. I feel like I did all I was supposed to do. RRP: What are you most proud of in your motherhood journey? MA: The fact that I was always present in my kids’ lives. I enjoyed each of their stages. Having four children under five was draining, and I wanted to skip to the less dependent years. I couldn’t have had the kind of motherhood experience I had without the support of my husband. I owe most of it to him.

Maria Adela Ansaldi

RRP: When you came to the U.S. in 2000, you were a new mom with your firstborn. How did you adjust to being a first-time mom in a new country? MA: It was hard. I came from a large Italian-descendent family and was used to being able to ask for help immediately. My parents and my parents-in-law, together with my brothers and my husband’s sisters, were the support system I suddenly didn’t have. I had to get out of my comfort zone. We made friends in the U.S., and some of those friends became the family we didn’t have close by us.

RRP: Being a physician, why did you decide to become a stay-at-home mom after your fourth child was born in 2004? MA: I did not feel comfortable with someone else raising my children. I couldn’t be a mom and physician in the way I desired to be (totally invested). It is not in my personality to do things halfway. So, at some point, I had to choose. It was not an easy decision, and it was not an easy time in my life, either.

RRP: What is your best advice for moms during the tough teenage years? MA: My best advice would be to pray a lot. Work/talk with your husband beforehand. You and your husband have to be on the same team and act as ONE. Let your kids know what you expect from them. Set clear rules and enforce them. I am talking about curfews, phones, and social media. I grew up in a different time. We didn’t have the Internet and all the information our kids have at their fingertips now. The Internet is amazing, but it is also dangerous. You must be proactive, be up to date, and research before letting them download something on their phones. Lastly, make yourself available at all times. Talk to them, and especially listen to them. You want them to have enough confidence to talk to you when good (or not so good) things happen.

RRP: Why did you decide to become a pediatric physician? MA: I believe it was a combination of two things. First, my high school degree allowed me to teach music in schools. As soon as I graduated high school, I started working as a music teacher at the elementary level (while studying medicine). I enjoyed working with children. Secondly, I had a pretty great pediatrician myself, whom I always admired. He worked at the hospital where I did my pediatric rotations during medical school. The whole experience was remarkable. So, I would say pediatrics was a great combination of my love for medicine and children.

RRP: Looking back, if you could do anything differently in motherhood, what would it be? MA: I feel like, at certain times, I put the kids’ needs before mine or my husband’s. I would have tried to balance that better.

RRP: You have four children: Francisco (23), Ezequiel (21), Ines (19), and Angeles (18). Your youngest will be off to college soon. How are you adjusting to becoming an empty nester?

RRP: If you had to choose one parenting mantra for yourself, what would it be?

MA: I believe I am adjusting just fine. I think I am looking forward to it. I am not saying it will be easy. If you ask me again in August, my answer might be different. I was able to be with all of my children whenever they needed me or when they wanted me close by. I helped at school functions, camped with them, drove on field trips, volunteered at several ballet dress rehearsals and performances, watched piano recitals, and chaperoned dances. I even started

River Region Parents I June 2022

MA: Parenting is one of the most challenging tasks in life, but also the biggest blessing! Maria Adela Ansaldi is married to Dr. Gerardo S. Gonzalez and they have four children. The couple met in Cordoba, Argentina, and live in Montgomery.

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River Region Parents June 2022 - Newcomers Edition

Articles inside

Elmore Education Matters

Kids Say the Wisest Things

Teens, Tweens & Screens