River Region Parents February 2020 by KeepSharing

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River Region Parents I February 2020

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February2020

Columns

50 64

Volume 25 Number 2

8 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

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

A Food Journey

One month of trying a healthier diet can change the way you (and your kids) think about food.

Happy Healthy Kids

Eight reasons to promote outdoor play for your children.

34 Pike Road Education Matters by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.

38 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

46 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis

54 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Healthy Kids Guide

Local resources to keep kids fit and healthy...mind and body.

Squash Sibling Rivalry

10 steps to help you enjoy a more

harmonious household.

56 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

68 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Holt McCullough (10) is in fourth grade at Daniel Pratt Elementary School. He plays baseball, basketball, piano, and, almost everyday, plays football in the yard with his neighborhood friends! He is active in the children’s ministry at Prattville’s First United Methodist Church where he sings in the children’s choir. Holt’s parents are Rev. Tony and Carmen McCullough, and he has two sisters: Arden (18) and Adeline (12), a sixth grader at Daniel Pratt. Holt loves traveling and attending sporting events with his grandparents, Dr. Karl and Brenda Stegall, and extended family in Montgomery.

Departments 12 Teacher of the Month 16 School Bits 73 Calendar/Support Groups 84 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote I don’t know about you, but I sometimes feel like I’m fighting an uphill battle when it comes to enforcing healthy eating for our almost nine year old, Grace. Jason and I have been on a health journey for quite a few years now. We’ve researched, listened to podcasts, read books, and researched some more about what foods are truly good for our bodies and which are best to avoid. Sure, we have our cheat days (or cheat weekends), but we try hard to live by the 80/20 rule. That being said, we can’t control what Grace puts in her mouth all day, every day. Though I make her healthy lunches for school, she inevitably comes home with somebody else’s empty bag of chips or Oreos. Even worse was the time I realized her lunch money account had a negative balance because she had been purchasing desserts and snacks, and even full lunches, in addition to the lunch I was packing for her. I chuckle at that story now (the nerve of that child!), but I was furious the day it happened. What it showed me, though, is that the desire to eat processed foods and foods loaded with sugar is very strong. For children and adults alike. Our country is more overweight than ever before, especially our children. The primary reasons: unhealthy eating and the lack of exercise, as kids spend much more time sitting inside on their devices. We know many of you are as passionate as Jason and I about your family’s health. We all want our kids to have long and productive lives. We want them to feel confident not only about their appearance, but their physical abilities. We don’t want weight or an unhealthy lifestyle to leave them feeling sluggish and even depressed. That’s why we’ve devoted our February issue to helping you on your journey to raise healthy kids. In our Healthy Kids Issue you’ll find several helpful articles including Cheryl Maguire’s, 10 Things I Learned From Eating Healthy Foods, and Christa Hines’, Happy, Healthy Kids: Eight Reasons to Embrace Outdoor Play. Our Common Sense Media column discusses Finding a Healthy Balance with Media and Technology in your home. And our Healthy Kids Guide shares local resources to assist you and your family, including active entertainment venues, local parks and trails, health food stores, children’s physicians and more. Finally, go ahead and mark your calendars now for March 28! River Region Parents will be hosting our 2nd Annual Healthy Kids Expo at Frazer Memorial UMC. This educational and action-packed event is FREE for you and your entire family. Visit with vendors as you discover local products, services, activities, health and education options, while having a whole lot of FUN! You and your kids will enjoy hands on activities, special performances and a fun zone with face painting, balloon twisting, inflatables and more! Have a fabulous (and fit) February!

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

Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Richard Dennis Christa Melnyk Hines Dr. Charles Ledbetter Cheryl Maguire Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dr. Ann Roy Moore Jan Pierce Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Judy Barranco www.judybarrancophotography.com

Publisher Jason Watson jason@riverregionparents.com

Associate Publisher Gena Hill Community Coordinator Savannah Bowden Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities (334) 213-7940 ext. 703

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Correction to January 2020 issue: In last month’s Private School Guide under Homeschools, Huntington Learning Center’s name was misspelled. Here is the corrected listing: Huntington Learning Center: One on one instruction in a specific course. (334) 277.9200 huntingtonhelps.com

River Region Parents I February 2020

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.

Member

River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2020 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.

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

You Are Their Biggest Influencer I am part of that in-between generation that was the last to grow up without cell phones or internet, yet young and hip enough to still intelligently navigate such devices (or at least that’s what we tell ourselves). Which brings me to this: Instagram. Or, as the cool kids call it – The IG. I have only recently started navigating “the gram,” and though I would like to tell you with great certainty that I am not at all easily influenced by marketing or media, it turns out that I am ever so slowly being influenced by the influencers. I won’t tell you how many new lip glosses I have purchased recently (3), how many Sherpa pull-overs I now own that I didn’t know I needed (2), nor will I tell you that I bought a steam mop that promises to cover up the mounds of infield dirt that end up in my kitchen – all because I was influenced. I would say the same can be said for our kids. Yes, they have mountains of social media they comb through to find

River Region Parents I February 2020

the latest styles and trends, yes they have television and 782 channels of content that tells them what to do, how to act, and where to go. But I think it is so important to never forget that you, as the parent, have the greatest platform to be the greatest influencer in their developing little lives. They may not look to you for fashion, they may not look to you for makeup tips, but they are certainly looking to you (whether you know it or not) for things like character, morality, goodness, and how to be a decent human. We influence them every day with how we act, how we engage (or don’t engage) with them, and we set a standard for what we hold dear. This also happens more subtly with things like our body language and tone, rate, rhythm and volume of speech. How many times have we found ourselves yelling at our kids to, “Just calm down!!” as we ourselves are far from calm. We have to understand the power that we hold and begin to realize – especially in those inevitable difficult moments – that how we react

and respond is going to greatly influence how they react and respond. So set yourself right first, adjust your angle, change up the lighting that you want to bring into the situation and model a different, more suitable, response for your child. And remember, though you may not have 428,000 followers, never forget you have one – or two – or six little followers underfoot who are watching your every story and notating every direct message you communicate to them. So give yourself a little blue checkmark because you are the real deal. I hope you find that to be a good reminder. I would say more but I have to go order some skincare that promises to make me look 86 years younger. (The 24-year-old influencer who swears by it looks incredibly young and youthful, so I am positive it will have the exact same effect on my middle age wrinkles.) Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

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Pike Road FatherDaughter Dance

February 8 * 6-9 p.m. St. James United Methodist Church, 9045 Vaughn Road Tickets are $25 per person and are sold through PayPal. For more info, visit https:// pikeroadfatherdaughterdance.com/.

In o v s

Celebrate Mardi Gras In the River Region

The Capri Presents The Princess Bride

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Cinderella

Back by popular demand, Alabama Dance Theatre will present the full-length timeless fairytale classic Cinderella March 6-8 at the Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Experience the magic of the royal ball, a beautiful princess, a pumpkin carriage, an enchanted Fairy Godmother, and one lost slipper. This beloved tale of “rags to riches” is perfect for the entire family. ADT’s annual Spring Concert featuring Cinderella is made possible by Poarch Creek Indians; Owen Aronov and Family; Regions; Baptist Health; Sara & Jere Beasley; Pickwick Antiques and Montgomery Antiques & Interiors and media sponsors Montgomery Advertiser and Cumulus, along with the City of Montgomery and the Alabama State Council on the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Performances will be Friday, March 6, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 7, at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, March 8, at 2 p.m. Tickets range in price from $15 to $30. For more info, call (334) 625-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com. *After the matinee performance on March 7, children are invited onstage to a “Party at the Palace” to meet Cinderella and other characters at an additional charge of $10 per child (costumes welcome).* River Region Parents I February 2020

February 14 * 7:30 p.m. The Capri Theatre, 1045 E Fairview Ave. A kissing story for Valentine’s Day! If Buttercup and Westley want to make their relationship work, they’ve got to overcome pirates, princes, assassins, Rodents Of Unusual Size, torture, and death. A swashbuckling, fantastic tale for the ages, The Princess Bride is the perfect movie for your Dinner-and-a-Movie romantic night. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org/ or call (334) 262-4858.

MPAC Presents Kountry Wayne

February 22 * 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. “Kountry” Wayne Colley, who grew up in Millen, Ga. (pop. 3,500), between Statesboro and Augusta, builds his audience with cutting edge yet clean, cursefree material. His appeal transcends all cultural lines and is fit for the whole family. Tickets begin at $47. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. 10

Prattville’s Mardi Gras Parade and Events will be held Saturday, Feb. 8, beginning with a car show in Pratt Park at 8 a.m., followed by vendors, food opportunities and inflatables at 11 a.m. The Mardi Gras parade will begin at 2 p.m. from the Autauga County Courthouse. Floats will proceed on Main Street through historic downtown, turning right on Northington, then making a left on Doster Road. It will end at Stanley Jensen Stadium. For more info, call (334) 595-0850 or visit www. prattvilleal.gov/. Millbrook will hold its Mardi Gras Festival and Parade Feb. 15, beginning with live entertainment and vendors at 9 a.m. at the Village Green, followed by a parade at noon. There is a special emphasis on fun things for kids to do including walking on water in a bubble, a bungee jump, pony rides, sliding chutes, and other activities. Traditional Cajun foods, barbecue, funnel cakes, Philly cheesesteaks, Polish sausages, hamburgers, shrimp, chicken, buffalo strips, pork skins, kettle corn, pop-corn, and much more. The parade begins on the south end of Main Street at Southgate Shopping Plaza (across from The Smokehouse Barbecue LLC) and ends at the Millbrook Shopping Center (Climate Control Storage) parking lot. For more info, visit www.millbrookrevelers.org or call (334) 318-0039. Wetumpka’s Mardi Gras Celebration will be Feb. 22 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in historic downtown Wetumpka. Vendors will begin selling their wares at 9 a.m., with the parade at 1 p.m. Parade will utilize the extended Christmas on the Coosa route. Parade will assemble at First Baptist Church and end at the Wind Creek Casino employee parking lot. Festival foods include chicken on a stick, alligator, gumbo, smoked turkey legs, red beans and rice and much more. There will be pony rides, water walker, a climbing wall and the zip ride. In addition, we will have a DJ onsite all day! Visit WetumpkaMardiGras.com for more info. www.riverregionparents.com

F W p e o y f t t W L M s h a p t w

Jewish Food Festival

Feb. 23 * 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Temple Beth Or, 2246 Narrow Lane Rd., Montgomery. In addition to purchasing delicious food or finding some very unique treasures, visitors have an opportunity to attend a short session to learn more about Jewish customs. This event is free to attend and there is no charge for parking. For more info, call (334) 2623314 or visit https://templebethor.net/.

Drop off homemade or store-bought cards with a sweet note at Pike Road Town Hall, 9575 Vaughn Road, through Feb. 13 to be delivered to local veterans in time for a Valentine’s surprise! For more info, call (334) 272-9883 or visit www.pikeroad.us.

15th Annual Daddy Daughter Diamond Princess Ball

Montgomery Zoo’s Leap into the Museum Family Fun Night

February 28 * 5:30-8:30 p.m. Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. An educational program and family fun night with hands-on experience, all sorts of adventure, and lots of fun geared for boys and girls aged 5-12 years old, and their parents. It includes a flashlight tour of the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, scavenger hunts, live animal presentations, discovery stations and a craft time. To register, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

Critter Crawl 5K & Yeti Dash

February 22 at The Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook. 7:30 a.m. Registration station open for packet pickup; 8:30 a.m. Critter Crawl 5K begins; 9:45 a.m. Yeti Dash begins; 10:30 a.m. Trophy Ceremony. The Critter Crawl is a trail run benefiting the ANC education programs that takes runners through a portion of the ANC’s 5-mile trail system. The Yeti Dash is a 1-mile trail system run. Nature/critter costumes are mandatory for any guests who wish to participate in the Yeti Dash. Advanced tickets: 5K - $25; 1 Mile Yeti Dash - $20. Add $5 day of race. For more info, call (334) 285-4550 or visit www.alabamawildlife.org/.

February 14 * 6-8 p.m. Ware-Farley-Hood House, 450 North Hull St. at Old Alabama Town. This glittering ball is a fundraiser for Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery and is open to girls 6th grade and under (former princesses 7th grade and up are invited to become members of the DPB Board). Moms are not allowed! Dads, favorite uncles and grandfathers will be the princess’s date for the evening of dancing, fabulous food and, of course, tiaras fit for royalty! Attire is black tie optional. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com/.

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Megan Deal Saint James School

Megan Deal knew early on that “helping” needed to be a big part of whatever profession she pursued. “I felt God calling me towards education. I had so many amazing teachers at Saint James growing up that made me see how important a teacher is in a student’s life”, she says. “Mrs. Deal has an optimistic view of every child. She builds confidence and character in the children, while providing them with a strong academic foundation. Her passion for teaching shines every time you see her,” says a parent. Mrs. Deal has also been described as passionate about her work and the children in her classroom. She is humbled and honored to have been nominated and chosen for this award. She says, “I really believe the parents are such a big part of their child’s education and that we are all in a partnership together. I appreciate this award so much!” Mrs. Deal doesn’t nail her teaching style to one type. Instead, she says she adjusts her teaching style slightly every year to meet the needs of her new group of students. She goes on to say, “I believe movement and choice is so important in the classroom, but balanced with some traditional structured time as well. My teaching goals are to make real life connections for my students to their learning, incorporate

River Region Parents I February 2020

technology in a way that is appropriate for a 5-6 year old, help students learn to work in groups or partners, develop inquisitive, independent, empowered learners and problem solvers, and to help each child reach their individual potential.” “Our world is such a busy place with lots of distractions, but also a place with innovation and technology that can help us solve our problems. I think being able to focus and problem solve without immediate gratification is a challenge,” says Mrs. Deal about challenges that children are facing today. To deal with this obstacle, she motivates her students by using an “attention grabber” at the beginning of her lessons and a reason why they are learning about the specific concept. What does she like best about teaching? “There is not a day that goes by that I don’t get hugs, hear laughter, or see smiles from my students. The students are definitely the best part of my job!” Megan Deal teaches Kindergarten at Saint James School in Montgomery. She is mother to two sons, ages 3 and eight months. Mrs. Deal enjoys playing with her boys outside, teaching two-year-old Sunday School with her husband at First Baptist, spending time with friends and family, watching anything Auburn, and exercising.

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February Is A Special Month to Celebrate! July is national hotdog month. National Squirrel Appreciation Day is in January. (Did you remember to thank the one in your yard?) But February is filled with a number of important remembrances and historic events worthy of our (and our childrens’) notice. Here are a few ideas to make it a month of learning. Some designated days are fun – February 1st is both National Give Kids A Smile Day and National Bubble Gum Day. How can one affect the other? It is also National Dark Chocolate Day – now scientists tell us that particular treat can be good for us, can you research how? If

that is not enough, the very next day is National Groundhog Day, when we think about weather and the coming of spring and fitting into swimsuits, and National Tater Tot Day when we consider we still have months to lose weight. Which reminds me, it is also National Heart Month – a time to recommit to having a healthy heart by exercising and eating right. Can you and your children come up with a plan to stay fit AND eat Tater Tots? And speaking of hearts, we turn our thoughts in the middle of the month to love and relationships with Valentine’s Day. Do you know why it is called Valentine’s Day? Why is it on the 14th and how is it celebrated in other countries? But this is also the month we celebrate history. February gives us the opportunity to celebrate our nation’s leaders with President’s Day. Four of our presidents, including George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, were born in this month. Do you know the other two?

And February is Black History Month. If you have a child in the Montgomery County School System, ask him or her about their schools’ Black History Month Program. If you can, make it to your child’s school for that event to find out more about how Americans of color have made our country a better place to live. Many of them lived and worked right here in Montgomery. Ask your child about Fred Gray, Leroy Moton, and Jo Ann Robinson. If they aren’t sure who they were, do the research together. And be sure to end the month with a bang – February 28 is National Chili Day! Cooking together is a great way to bond and learn. Have a great and educational February. 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.

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Montgomery County Schools

MEA Holds Science Fair

Macon East Academy held its annual 4th- through 7th-grade science fair. Each student submitted an essay and display board or experiment in either the biological or physical science category. The following winners will represent the school at the AISA District Science Fair. Biological 1st-place winners: Parker Ruskin, Elliot Fitch and Avery Kyser Physical 1st-place winners: Addie Longcrier, Peyton Baggot and Payton Underwood Junior high division: Marissa Robledo Payton Underwood is shown.

Resurrection Catholic Participates in MLK Activities

Resurrection Catholic School students participated in “Stepping Into Power: Young People’s Town Hall” at the Capri Theatre. Students had the opportunity to listen to panelists speak on various issues from a young professional’s perspective. They enjoyed such an engaging event. Fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade students traveled to the Davis Theatre to participate in the 6th Annual MLK Citywide Parade on January 17. This experience allowed students to gain a valuable perception of how Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was instrumental in the Civil Rights Movement.

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

Churchill Holds Multicultural Night

Churchill Academy’s Annual Multicultural Night on January 16 was a tremendous success. Students, parents and teachers had the opportunity to tour the world together—all from the comfort of Churchill! The hands-on learning experience was a chance for students to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of the cultures represented at Churchill. Many thanks to Churchill Academy Parent Association for putting the event together! River Region Parents I February 2020

SUA Names Sellers Head Football Coach

Shawn Sellers has been named Success Unlimited Academy’s new head football coach. He will replace Coach Bill Granger as head football coach, and Granger will continue as SUA’s athletic director. Sellers is a Montgomery native and graduated from Sidney Lanier High School. He attended Alabama State University and Troy University Montgomery. Sellers brings to SUA more than 20 years of coaching experience in football, basketball and baseball, with youth sports programs, high school programs, and post-grad schools. His coaching experience includes affiliations with Highland Home High, Gulf Coast Prep, Calhoun High and Goode Elite Prep, along with a previous coaching position at SUA. Sellers is the proud father of sons Tyrus, 14, and Rowdy, 12. He will assume head football coach responsibilities immediately. www.riverregionparents.com

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Graphic Arts @ ACA

The Middle School Graphic Arts class at Alabama Christian Academy wrapped up the semester with creating T-shirt designs. Students also worked on their own screenprinting process using a loom, hosiery and paint! Allowing students to explore and learn the creative process is an integral part of learning at ACA.

Eastwood Students Compete in AISA Math Contest Eastwood Christian School students put their math skills to the test at the Alabama Independent School Association Upper School/ Middle School District Math Competition on January 14. Upper school team members Elizabeth Cowden, Andrew Grete, Jamal Player-Hall, Daphne Swavely and Claude

Newsome placed third out of nine teams. ECS students Ben Duggar, Ava Thomas, Will Dekle, Johnson DeHuff and M.E. Grace Shuemake were the first middle school students to represent Eastwood in an AISA contest. They placed second in the middle school category. M.E. Grace Shuemake, who is a 7th-grader, received the highest individual score (excluding the winning team) and will go on to compete at the AISA State Contest at AUM on February 7.

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Brewbaker Student Starts Charitable Foundation

Trevor Wilson is an eleven-year-old student at Brewbaker Middle School. He decided that giving back to the community and helping others was important to him and something he wanted to start at an early age. Wilson decided to start a foundation called “Future Hands,” and its purpose is to help those in need, especially in the Montgomery area. The Future Hands foundation went to Brantwood Children’s Home over Christmas break. This was a Christmas treat and time of fellowship which included dinner, board games, crafts, and fun. Every child at the Brentwood Children’s Home received a duffle bag full of necessities and goodies. This trip and opportunity to give back would not have been possible without the help of many sponsors and volunteers. These sponsors included: Dianne Stokes with State Farm, Will Hudson at Subway, Pat Riley with Walmart, and Dianne Stokes from Chick-Fil-A. Volunteers were Cole Gillet, Rory Wilson, Austin Smith, Angela Hampton, Bryce Hampton, Jordan Stokes and Kodee Harrison. Wilson’s mom, Katrina, helped him start the foundation and is teaching him the importance of being kind and giving to others. “Giving has no age limit,” Wilson says. “No matter how young or how old, everyone can be kind and give to those in need. Future Hands has only just begun and will continue to help around the city of Montgomery.”

Montgomery Academy Art Teacher Awarded

Sara Dodd ‘05, The Montgomery Academy’s middle school art teacher, recently received the President’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Alabama Art Education Association! 19

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cheer Team Finishes Third at State

The Montgomery Academy Competitive Cheer Team placed third at the Alabama High School Athletic Association State Cheerleading Competition.

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Resurrection Catholic K4 Celebrates at Eastdale

Resurrection Catholic Pre-K4 took a field trip to Eastdale Mall to visit Santa and his elves. The children were excited about telling Santa all of the things they wanted for Christmas and to listen to see whether Santa said they were naughy or nice.

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STJ Students Chosen For All State Choir

Annually, the Alabama Vocal Association’s All-State Choral Festival hosts a three-day event that culminates in a professionally recorded concert at the Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center. The Festival is an opportunity for students with outstanding ability and initiative to receive public recognition, to sing under the direction of nationally recognized choral clinicians, and to perform choral literature of the highest quality. This past fall, students from across the state auditioned for Alabama Vocal Association board members to be selected to join the esteemed choir this spring. Saint James School choir students selected for the All State Choir are shown with STJ Choir Director Dr. Sallye York. Top row from left are Jayla Brooks, Ella Taylor and Rain Johnson. Bottom row are: Nicole Jung, Abigail Kang and Bree Bennett. Not pictured are Anna Colson and Austin Oh.

MEA Senior Participates In State Pageant Program

Macon East Academy senior Rachel Sargent participated in the Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama program January 11-18. Representing Macon County at the state program, Sargent was awarded a certificate for her “Be Your Best Self” essay and received one of three Bruce Triftshauser Community Service Awards. Sargent enjoyed the week full of activities, interviews and meeting all of the other outstanding DYW participants from across the state. In the talent portion of the competition, she played the piano and sang “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” 21

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Catholic Middle School Robotics Team Qualifies for State Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s RoboKnights robotics program has qualified another team for the upcoming VEX Robotics State Competition. Team “Last Resort,” comprised of 8th-grader Merritt Payne and 7thgraders Zack Azar, David Huston Michael Sasser and Jackson Wright, qualified to compete in the state competition. Last Resort will join fellow RoboKnights team, “The Sevies,” at the VEX Robotics Alabama State Middle School Tournament. “Lost in the Ross,” led by VEX Robotics World Competition alumnus Arthur Murray, will compete at the VEX Robotics Alabama State High School Tournament. Both tournaments will take place on February 27 at the Beard-Eaves Memorial Coliseum in Auburn.

ACA Tumbling Club After School

Alabama Christian Academy provides a variety of after-school clubs for elementary students. On Mondays this group of girls gets together for Tumbling Club.

River Region Parents I February 2020

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A DVA N C I N G STUDENTS TO THEIR FULLEST POTENTIAL

The Polar Express Visits ECA

The elementary classes at Evangel Christian Academy held a special “Polar Express” Day. Students came to school dressed in their favorite pajamas. To the students’ surprise, a passenger train car was waiting outside the school for each child to board and snowflakes were falling. A conductor welcomed each child and gave him a special gold ticket with “Believe” written on it.

$40.4M in Scholarships over the past 5 years

Numerous Ministries

supported worldwide, from the River Region to Guatemala and Uganda 2 Jimmy Hitchcock Award Winners

for Christian leadership in athletics in the past 3 years

36 All-State Honor Band Members

and 86 All-District Honor Band members in the past 5 years

1 World Robotics Competition Team,

1 State Finalist team, and 8 State Competition teams in the past 3 years

Montgomery Academy H.E.A.R.T. Provides Christmas Gifts to Brantwood Residents

For ten years, Montgomery Academy’s community service organization, H.E.A.R.T. (Helping Eagles Are Right There), has been “playing Santa” for Brantwood Children’s Home residents. Each Middle and Upper School homeroom adopts a resident, shops and wraps gifts that are delivered to Brantwood by members of H.E.A.R.T. This year, MA provided gifts for 27 children to open on Christmas morning. H.E.A.R.T. is sponsored by Connie Johnson and Denise Wentworth.

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Montgomery County Schools

Saint James School Takes First Place At AISA District Math Competition

Montgomery Academy Economics Students Excel in Stock Market

Two Montgomery Academy economics students in Dr. Scott Morris’s class placed in the south Alabama regional stock market game sponsored by the Alabama Council on Economic Education. The Alabama Stock Market Game is an exciting 10-week, on-line trading experience. Students begin with $100,000 and may purchase stocks, bonds and mutual funds and make any number of trades with their available funds. The teams with the most valuable portfolios at the end of the 10 weeks win their division. Jennings Lawson came in third, with gains of 15.1%, winning a $100 cash prize, and Bryant McClendon came in fifth, with gains of 14.6%, winning a $50 cash prize.

The Saint James School math teams competed at the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) District Math Competition January 14, and both teams took first place in their respective divisions. This first-place win for each team advances them to the AISA State Math Tournament on February 7. “There are two parts to the high school contest,” explained Vicky Eichelberg, Saint James high school mathematics teacher and math team sponsor. “First, students solve 50 multiple-choice problems covering a wide range of high school mathematics concepts in 90 minutes. The top four scores are totaled for the initial team score. “The second part of the competition is a ciphering contest. Four members of the team compete in this round, one at a time. (One student from every team comes forward to solve four problems. Each problem is projected on the screen for 90 seconds.) Points are earned based on how quickly the correct answer is submitted. The ciphering points are added to the initial team score for the final score.” Debbie Moncrief, Saint James middle school mathematics teacher and math team sponsor, explained that the middle school division contest involves a written competition only. “They have 50 questions with a time limit of 90 minutes to complete the questions.” Both groups practice their math skills in team practices with timed drills so they are prepared for competition.

Saint James high school math team students are pictured with team sponsor Vicky Eichelberg. From left: Su Yun, Ellie Kim, Nayoon Kang, Isabelle Goulet and Jack Branham.

Churchill Track Team Ready to Begin Season Churchill Academy students have their track shoes on and they are ready for the inaugural season! January 16 was a big night for this year’s Track and Field team as they met for a student/parent team meeting. The team has spent a great deal of time working out and preparing for the season, and the meeting solidified plans for the spring. Athlete spotlights, pep rallies, and more – it’s going to be a spring to remember! River Region Parents I February 2020

Saint James middle school math team students are pictured with team sponsor Debbie Moncrief. From left: Wendy Stombaugh, Abigail Kang, Sarah Park, Ian Gregg and Edwin Wu. 24

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Alabama Christian Academy Senior Serve Day

Alabama Christian Academy has created a culture of serving. Recently, ACA senior students had the opportunity to make a difference in the River Region area. The 77 students were split up into different locations, such as the Montgomery Zoo, the Salvation Army, the Medical Outreach Mission and Dalraida Church of Christ Missions Warehouse.

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Macon East Academy Quarterback Honored at Banquet

Christian Faith Instruction

Macon East Academy quarterback Cephus Cleveland was honored as the AISA All-State Quarterback of the Year at the Alabama Mr. Football awards banquet held January 15 at the Renaissance Hotel and Conference Center. In the 2019 season, Cleveland was responsible for 35 of Macon East’s 55 touchdowns. He had 18 rushing and 17 passing TD’s. On the year, Cleveland ran for 907 yards, threw for 1,107 yards, and had 44 tackles on defense. Overall, the Knights went 7-3 for the season with an appearance in the AISA 3A playoffs. Cleveland also represented Macon East in the AISA All-Star football game, where he was selected as team captain and outstanding offensive back for the West team. Cleveland plans to continue his football career at the collegiate level, but has not made his final decision where he will play in 2020.

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Montgomery County Schools

Globetrotters with Churchill

Churchill Academy families gathered on January 20 for an evening with the Harlem Globetrotters. Families gathered in Montgomery to enjoy the high-energy display of athleticism and entertainment, and fun was had by all. Churchill continues seeking to create growth opportunities for students beyond the classroom environment. Gathering as a school community is one way we foster such growth.

Montgomery Academy Math Team Takes Second at Math Competition

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Montgomery Academy students Cyprian Dumas, Martha Ernest, William Robertson, Kelly Yoon and Russell Hughes participated in the AISA District V High School Math Competition on January 14 at East Memorial Christian Academy. The team won second place with Dumas winning the individual high scorer accumulating the most points on the written exam. He will compete at the state competition on February 7.

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River Region Parents I February 2020

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Success Unlimited Academy Students Participate in Math Competition

ECA Students Support Local Food Bank

The students from Evangel Christian Academy recently participated in a food drive to help people in need. To make the drive more exciting, the school headmaster, Bobby Johnson, agreed to get pied in the face if the students reached their goal. The students accepted the challenge and met the goal. The student who brought in the most cans was chosen to pie Mr. Johnson.

The math team at Success Unlimited Academy has worked since school began in August preparing for the annual Alabama Independent School Association District Math Competition. Members of the team met weekly for challenging practices. Team members are Alex Anglin, Shaun’Dreal Bibb, Amiracus Brown. Torie Floyd, Michaela Knighton and Hayden Terrell. Joseph Schaub serves as the team’s faculty sponsor. “SUA’s math team is a very talented group of students this year and I am proud to be their sponsor,” Schaub said. All of the members are exceptional students. For the second consecutive year, math teams in the district competed at the AISA Math Competition at East Memorial Christian Academy in Prattville. The weather was lousy, but spirits were high as the teams gathered for the competition. SUA’s team performed very well and represented themselves and their school with grace and poise. Team members are already looking forward to future competitions.

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Catholic Students Take Part in Olympic Program

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is proud to announce that eight student athletes are participating in the Olympic Development Program for soccer and have been invited to compete in the ODP Championships in Auburndale, Fla. Seventh-graders Isaac Dalhart, Kate Johnson, Eryn Owens, Matt Russo and Heather Walski, and sixthgraders Ava Crimi, Anna Maria Russo and Peter Walski were invited on individual merit and skill to compete against top players from the OPD Soccer South Region. The region includes teams from Georgia, Florida, South Texas El Paso, South Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, North Carolina West and North Texas. The Alabama Soccer Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Olympic Development Program seeks to provide opportunities for top-level players and through rigorous talent identification and training. Players are evaluated on an individual basis and receive training to prepare them to compete at an elite level. Through the ODP program, players have an opportunity to compete with other elite players from the local level all the way to international level of play. Scouts from colleges, Major League Soccer, and US Soccer often attend events and help to further the careers of future soccer players.

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

River Region Parents I February 2020

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Montgomery Academy Tennis Coach Named Coach of the Year

Resurrection Catholic Pre-K Enjoying Their Garden

During the month of October, Resurrection Catholic School Pre-K4 enjoyed an outdoor activity with their garden. The students learned how vegetables are planted, watered and eventually prepared. The students were so excited especially when vegetables from their garden were prepared for their evening meal.

Amy Williams, The Montgomery Academy varsity girls’ tennis coach, was named by the National Federation of State High School Associations as the Alabama Girls’ Tennis Coach of the Year for 2018-2019. Coach Williams was specifically nominated by the Alabama High School Athletic Association as the most deserving recipient for this honor. This year’s honorees were selected based upon their coaching performance in the 2018-2019 school year, lifetime community involvement, school involvement and philosophy of coaching.

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Holds Successful Food Drive

The student body at Alabama Christian Academy came together and collected canned food items for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Our staff did an amazing job coordinating this effort and the students stepped up and donated and helped deliver the food just in time for the holidays.

STJ Club Helps Those in Need

Saint James high school teacher Dane Hawk is pictured with members of the Saint James School Agape Club. “I am extremely proud of these students — they collected school supplies for students in the Colegio J.E.T. in El Tejar, Guatemala,” Hawk explained. “They collected enough for at least 15 students. It is so moving that they want to help students in need—students they have never met.”

River Region Parents I February 2020

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MEA Volleyball Player Signs With Mississippi Team

Macon East Academy senior Emi Lott signed to play volleyball next year at Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, Miss. She is a two-year starter for the Macon East Knights with career stats of 38 aces 119 kills 32 blocks and 121 digs. She is the daughter of MEA Headmaster Glynn Lott and wife Michelle. Emi helped lead the team to the 2018 AISA State Championship and 2019 Final 4 appearance.

Pre-K Pajama Day @ Resurrection

Resurrection Catholic Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pre-K4 students observed Pajama Day at school. Students were able to wear their favorite pajamas while learning their letters, sounds, numbers, writing their names and making pictures.

Montgomery Catholic Elementary Campuses Celebrate Achievement On January 17, the Holy Spirit and St. Bede Campuses of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School celebrated their top students during their awards assemblies. More than 150 students from both campuses were recognized for stellar achievement in academics and in conduct and were congratulated by Principals Laurie Gulley and Nancy Foley and were presented their awards by Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar. Montgomery Catholicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holy Spirit and St. Bede campuses serve students in grades K4 through 6th.

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Montgomery County Schools

SUA Students Attend 24th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast Students from Success Unlimited Academy were invited as guests of City Councilman Glen Pruitt to attend the 24th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This prestigious event was held on Saturday, January 18, at the Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center. During the program, the fraternity recognized three honorees from the River Region who are fully engaged in carrying Dr. Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream forward through their community service. The memorial breakfast is also a fundraising event to support and fund scholarships for outstanding area students who are preparing to further their education post high school. Students selected to represent SUA at the memorial breakfast included Amiracus Brown, Torie Floyd, Giselle Rodriguez, Devin Johnson, Kelvin Reese, Myles Richardson and Tyler Wood. Accompanying the selected students were Finance Director Pam Johnson, faculty member Rhonda Wilson and Development Direc-

tor Butch Speed. An estimated crowd of more than 600 guests enjoyed a delicious breakfast and listening to the guest speaker, Marshall J. Taggart, Jr., Montgomery Regional Airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first black executive director.

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River Region Parents I February 2020

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Extraordinary Academics. Extraordinary Arts. Extraordinary Athletics. Extraordinary Faculty. Accredited K3 through 12th Grade Independent College-Preparatory School Trinity School is Montgomeryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foremost educational institution providing students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, award-winning fine arts program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. The Trinity Experience is extraordinary in every wayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an education that is as unique as your child. If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Director of Admission Jenny McClinton at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com. Tuition assistance is available. Discount offered to our military families.

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February is the perfect month to reflect on leadership as we celebrate President’s Day. Effective educational leaders, much like presidents, are change agents. Presidents see the problems that arise with our country and work to solve them every day. Educational leaders see the problems that arise in preparing learners for success and seek to solve them each day. Those who are most successful have both a vision of high quality education and a plan for how to move an organization toward that destination. An integral part of leading a successful organization is working together with stakeholders to create a shared vision. High quality educational organizations do this well and have been doing so for years. Pike Road Schools has so far done an excellent job creating a shared vision with our many stakeholders. This is evident in our five year strategic plan.

River Region Parents I February 2020

Sustainable change is necessary to break the cycle of adoption of new solutions to educational problems only to half-heartedly attempt them for a time before trying another solution. This process locks us into a continual cycle of failure. Breaking that cycle depends upon building a leadership team that embraces diverse voices and empowers the team to create solutions that are different than the leader expected, yet effective to move toward the vision. I believe the following key principles build effective leadership teams. Encourage divergent thoughts at leadership team meetings. Leadership meetings have to be a safe place for ideas to be discussed, problems to be considered, and solutions to be proposed so that the most effective plan may be formulated. Humans crave familiarity and naturally resist change. As we empower our leaders to create resolutions for educational issues, we have to also discuss how we can implement them in a manner so that our stakeholders can adjust. Hire for intelligence and work ethic, surely, but I also look for a “HIP” educator. Humility, Integrity, and Passion are the three traits I look for in every educator hire. If a

person will put learners first, make sure learners get what they need to learn, and love to be life changers and success agents, they will be impactful educators. The leadership team should be responsible for empowering the educators who work directly with learners to be able to meet learner needs and facilitate their growth. Understand as leadership we are rarely the tools that fix the problem; we are more often the oil that lubricates the machine to make it run smoothly. We are very proud of the incredible leaders we have at Pike Road Schools and the leaders in the community of Pike Road. While we will never be content with where we stand and will always be working to create sustainable change, it is important to know the leadership philosophy behind our thriving school system. Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 28 years. He has earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Chuck Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his ninth year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.

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Pike Road High Gets Newly Renovated Gym

The Pike Road High School (PRHS) gym has been undergoing renovations for the past four months. The renovations include new lighting, a completely refinished floor, new scoreboard, new retractable bleachers, and air conditioning, which the gym did not have prior to the renovation. The new gym seats more than 600 spectators. It is like a brand-new facility and looks amazing! The gym will be home to several Pike Road teams including basketball, wrestling and cheerleading, plus a community youth league and physical education classes. On January 10, spectators filled the new facility for the first time to see the three Patriot basketball teamsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; JV boys, varsity girls and varsity boysâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;compete against Bullock County. It was an extremely exciting and fun atmosphere. The night was a sellout, standing room only, and all three Patriot teams won, even down to the nail-biter with varsity boys winning in the last 1.1 seconds of the game. The gym renovation is part of ongoing construction to the entire PRHS building. The new facility will also include updated locker rooms for boys and girls, and locker rooms for visiting teams. PRHS varsity boys are currently ranked in the top four in the state. Varsity girls are ranked in the top 10. It means a lot to the players and the student body to have a nice new home facility to compete in. The basketball and full athletic calendar can be viewed on the Pike Road High School website at http:// high.pikeroadschools.org/ Come out and see our newly renovated gym and enjoy the fun family atmosphere at one of our basketball games.

P D b A Pike Road Schools Recognizes Employees for Five Years of Service

Pike Road Schools (PRS) opened the door for learners August 13, 2015, making it the newest school system in the River Region. Initially PRS was comprised of one school that served 950 learners in grades K-8. Now three campuses serve more than 2,000 learners in grades preK-12, making PRS one of the fastest growing school systems in the state. 2020 marks our fifth year as a school system. It also marks the fifth year of service for approximately 30 of our PRS employees. We honored these special employees on January 6 by recognizing them at a district-wide breakfast and giving them a small gift as a token of our appreciation for their hard work and dedication to begin and maintain this amazing school system. They have been a significant part of forming this school system. Their positions range from teachers, to administrators, to central office staff. We applaud the determination and effort they have demonstrated over the past five years. We look forward to seeing all the great things we know they will accomplish in the upcoming years!

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Cheerleaders Honored by Mayor and Town Council Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone and the Pike Road Town Council recognized the Pike Road High School varsity competition cheer team with a proclamation at the January council meeting. This team has worked extremely hard to earn second place at the state competition and a bid to attend the National UCA cheer competition in Orlando February 7-9. The girls have also cheered for the PRHS football and basketball teams all while being ambassadors for the entire PRS system. They have helped to create a fun Patriot Pride-filled atmosphere at games, at school and in the community. River Region Parents I February 2020

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Pike Road Band Director Recognized by WSFA With Class Act Award

Patrick Darby, the band director for Pike Road High School, was recently honored with the Class Act award by WSFA. Darby is a musical mentor to his band students. His enthusiasm and passion for music are contagious. These qualities are what have allowed him to build a successful band program from scratch. Since the Pike Road band program is new, Darby took the initiative to write the school fight song as well as revised the original Alma Mater. He is currently working with donors and fundraising efforts to acquire band uniforms by the next school year. Darby has high standards for band participants and sets lofty goals. He aspires to have the students march in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. This was the first year for Pike Road to have a marching band, so Darby held an extensive band camp over the summer to build this new marching program. Again, he had to start from scratch, even teaching the participants how to actually march. In addition, a color guard program and jazz band were added this year. This has been an exciting and successful year for this young band. The students have marched in multiple parades, performed excellent halftime shows during a winning Patriot football season, hosted beautiful holiday/ winter concerts for a packed house and competed extremely well at band competition: Drum Major 1, Color Guard 2, Drumline 1, Band 1,1,1 for an Overall 1. We are grateful to have Patrick Darby as a PRS musical mentor. He is well deserving of the Class Act award. We look forward to seeing the band program grow and flourish under his passionate leadership. Thank you, Mr. Darby, for your dedication and vision!

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Tickets: alabamadancetheatre.com • Info: 334-625-2590 Sponsors: Poarch Band of Creek Indians | Owen Aronov & Family Regions Bank | Pickwick Antiques & Montgomery Antiques and Interiors Baptist Health | Cumulus | Montgomery Advertiser This performance is funded in part by the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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We have had a fantastic start to our second semester! I would like to take this opportunity to tell you about one of our community partnerships. The PrattvilleAutauga Character Coalition was formed in 2008 following the City of Prattville being designated a City of Character in 2006. Since 2017, the Character Coalition has been collaborating with educators in Autauga County to provide resources and community support to promote good character. Character Education Grants are one of the many ways the Character Coalition offers support for classroom, school and departmental innovative projects. The Character Education Grant Reception was held on December 16th and I would like

to congratulate the following teachers who received grants: • Judy Cordell (PPS) – Dealing with Emotions • Emily Gregory (PLES) – ART TALK • Debbie Langham (PPS) – Pre-K Character Education Books • Emily Rhodes (PPS) – Leading by Design • Kaylyn Walker (DPES) – Character Counts Program • Susan Wilson (PJHS) – Building Good Character at PJHS With the start of the second semester, we begin to plan for another fantastic school year. The 2020-2021 school calendar committee is hard at work creating a calendar for the upcoming school year. I would like to thank the following members of our calendar committee: Felissa Clemons from the Central Office, Board Member Eleanor Ballow, Jimmy Lansdell from Marbury High, Leonna Schmidt from Prattville Elementary, Melinda Kiser from Prattville

Junior High, Susan Shoupe from Prattville Primary, Wyteria Ellis from Autaugaville, Jamie Ramsey from Second Chance, Emily Gregory from Pine Level Elementary, Dana O’Brian from Prattville Intermediate, Heather Skinner from Daniel Pratt Elementary, Misty Harris from Prattville Kindergarten, Neal Murphree from Prattville High, Jennifer Reid from Billingsley, Rachel Surles (a parent representative), Renee Brobst from Marbury Middle, and Shawna Littleton from the Autauga County Technology Center. The 2020-2021 school calendar will be presented to the board for approval on March 12. I take great pleasure in sharing the accomplishments that our schools, staff members, and students receive with the citizens of Autauga County. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

River Region Parents I February 2020

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Autauga County Schools

PCA’s Bowman Lights Up ASF’s Festival Stage

Prattville Twins Win School Spelling Bee

Prattville Elementary School congratulates the Vest twins! Emery Cate Vest won the 2019-2020 Prattville Elementary Spelling Bee and will represent PES in the county bee on February 5. Her brother, Crawford Vest, was runner-up.

For Prattville Christian Academy student Lannom Bowman, being on stage “is like being at home. It feels like I belong there.” Bowman most recently acted in the role of Charlie Bradley in the 2019 Alabama Shakespeare Festival holiday production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. “Charlie, the character I play, could be my friend,” said Bowman. “He is a lot like me, and he fits my personality.” Bowman’s passion for performing on stage began when he played Haydn in PCA’s 2018 Christmas production of The Colors of Christmas. “This past summer, I went to an ASF acting camp and decided it was what I wanted to do!” In addition to serving in the role of Charlie in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Bowman has already developed quite a list of community roles. His onstage presence led to laughter rippling throughout the audience during PCA’s production of Mulan Jr. in his role of Mushu, the quippy, heroic dragonguardian sent by Mulan’s ancestors. He will appear onstage again during PCA’s presentation of Annie Jr. on February 20, as Sandy, Annie’s lovable and loyal dog. Photo courtesy of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival

Pine Level Teachers Attend Leader in Me Symposium

On January 13 and 14, a group of Pine Level Elementary teachers attended the Leader in Me Symposium. Leader in Me is an evidence-based, comprehensive school improvement model that empowers students with the leadership and social and emotional life skills they need to thrive. Leader in Me elementary schools are addressing social-emotional learning, equity for low-income communities, self-directed learning, attendance, PBIS, and more. Pine Level Elementary became a Leader In Me School in August 2019.

Science Display Kicks Off STEM Program at Prattville Intermediate To kick off its after-school STEM program, Ronnie Thomas of Fun, Weird, Science visited with the faculty, staff and students of Prattville Intermediate School. Students were totally engaged and wonderfully delighted by the endless possibilities of STEM. River Region Parents I February 2020

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PJHS Students Recognized for High ACT Scores as Seventh-Graders

Prattville Junior High joined forces with the Board of Education to recognize students who scored well on the ACT as 7th-graders through the Duke TIP Program. At a recent BOE meeting, we recognized seven students (one was unavailable) with scores ranging from 23-30. These students are exemplary in the classroom and are great examples of CAT expectations. From left are Prattville Junior High Principal Janice Stockman with students Margaret Bartlow, John Bradley Bulger, James Byard, Jessica Gray, Shanna Cleveland, and Grayson Murphry, with Autauga County Schools Superintendent Spence Agee. Not pictured is Kaitlyn Rex.

Samford Opera Program Visits Marbury Middle

Recently, Marbury Middle School 6thgrade students had the opportunity to experience a children’s opera. Lucinda y las Flores de la Nochebuena is an interactive children’s opera performed by the Samford University Opera Program. The story is based on a Mexican folktale detailing the origin of the poinsettia and follows the journey of a young girl named Lucinda. For many students, this was the first time to experience a live opera.

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NOT A CLUB... A COMMUNITY

Fitness for Everyone • Summer Camp • Youth Sports • Ability Programs

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Autauga County Schools

PCA Student Chosen to Attend the University of Alabama’s Capstone Leadership Academy

Maddie Jeffery ‘22 has been selected to participate in the University of Alabama’s Capstone Leadership Academy (CLA) later this spring at the Hotel Capstone, located in the heart of campus. Every year, the CLA welcomes just 100 sophomores from across the state, and this year, Jeffery has been invited to attend this prestigious conference. Students are nominated by their school counselor, then selected by the university’s Honors College and Capstone Council. CLA offers sophomores a chance to further develop their leadership abilities during the two-day conference through a variety of speakers, group activities and a service project. Students return to their schools with the tools needed to make a difference in their communities. Jeffery, a key contributor in PCA’s Division B Science Olympiad team’s success during its 2018-2019 season, and one of the top female runners on PCA’s cross country team this past season, was “completely taken aback” and shocked when she received the invitation. “I am extremely excited to have this opportunity and honor,” she said. “PCA and my family have raised me as a strong leader. Through all of the opportunities and activities they give us to learn and succeed, I have been able to become the person I am today. I am independent, a hard worker, and a servant of the Lord. What more could anyone ask for?” During PCA’s homecoming tailgating event earlier this school year, Jeffery helped with the organization and communication within her grade and helped her fellow classmates finish their tent, said Patrica Dean, PCA’s upper school guidance counselor. “Maddie takes the initiative without being asked,” she added. “I love serving others,” Jeffery explained. “I believe that everybody has a voice and deserves to be heard, so I always try to include people. I always strive for the top and do my best, [and] I enjoy seeing others succeed, even when I fail. I’m so proud to be able to represent PCA (at CLA), especially since it has been about six years since we were last represented. The activities and lectures will hopefully help me to become a better leader, and I can’t wait to meet people who have similar values.”

Pine Level Elementary Celebrates 100 Days

Pine Level Elementary celebrated 100 days older of growing and learning on January 21. Students participated in activities such as dressing up, counting, and celebrating 100 days smarter. Some students even designed their own 100 day shirts.

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Pine Level Receives Bright Ideas Grant

Pine Level Elementary received a $500 Bright Ideas grant from Central Alabama Cooperative Electric to purchase snap circuits for the school STEAM room. Materials will be bought for all students to use. Shown are PLE Gifted Specialist Emily Gregory, CAEC President/CEO Tom Stackhouse and PLE Assistant Principal Donna Hoomes. River Region Parents I February 2020

PJHS Receives Safe School Award Prattville Intermediate Holds Spelling Bee

Prattville Intermediate School recently held its schoolwide spelling bee. Twenty-three student finalists competed for the school’s top speller award. Sixth-graders Nicolette Okorodudu and Hayden Rasnake were recognized as winner and runner-up. 42

Prattville Junior High was honored to be the District 5 recipient of the Safe School Award for the second year in a row. Attorney General Steve Marshall made the presentation at an assembly in January. Also attending were members of the Prattville Police Department, Prattville Fire Department, Emergency Management, Mayor’s Office, Board of Education, State of Alabama Fire Department, and other community members that help our schools stay safe so students can learn. www.riverregionparents.com

PCA Panther Duo Invited to National Baseball Tournaments

James Chancey ’21 and Jackson Reed ’22 were invited to play in preseason baseball tournaments hosted by Under Armour’s Baseball Factory. Baseball Factory is an organization that specializes in player development and college placement for elite high school players. Only 175 of the nation’s top high school baseball players competed in these invitationonly tournaments last year. Chancey was selected to attend the 2019 Pirate City Christmas Tournament in Bradenton, Fla., and the upcoming 2020 Omaha National World Series. Reed was selected as a preseason All-American. He will be recognized in Mesa, Ariz., and play with other top atletes from all over the country. These student-athletes have the opportunity to compete in tournament play against top players from around the country and train each day with professional scouts, former professional players, and former college coaches. In addition to learning from the industry’s most talented and knowledgeable players and coaches, Chancey and Reed receive training for hitting, pitching, defense, base running, and team fundamentals. They also learn how to approach hitting above average off-speed pitches, which is crucial at the college level, improving mental performance, baseball-specific weight training tips, and post-event exposure to secure a scholarship to continue their passion at the collegiate level. The Under Armour Baseball Factory invitations are significant achievements for these student-athletes and PCA’s baseball program.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

Evangel Christian Academy Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential

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Autauga County Schools

Billingsley FFA Attends National Convention

Billingsley Future Farmers of America sent members to the 92nd Annual National FFA Convention in Indianapolis. While on their journey, the members had the privilege to visit historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway and take in a horse race at Churchill Downs. As part of the National FFA Convention, the students heard retiring addresses from National FFA officers, motivational speakers, and numerous others. The students also had the opportunity to attend and learn from leadership workshops, a college fair and career show.

Pine Level Names Teacher of the Year Congratulations to Emily Gregory, Pine Level Elementary Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2019 Teacher of the Year!

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A great program for K-1st repeaters

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Mandi Suggs of Prattville Intermediate School was awarded Bright Ideas grant funding from Central Alabama Electric Cooperative (CAEC) for her innovative proposal featuring Flashlight Friday-Book Studies & Read Alouds.

Kindness Matters at PJHS

In an effort to promote kindness and eliminate bullying, Prattville Junior High School wanted a mural to “Be the I in KIND.” In a collaborative effort with the AP Art program at Prattville High School, students designed each letter to leave their mark at PJHS. Students are allowed to take their picture as the “I” when they demonstrate acts of kindness to other students. It is a great reminder that it takes everyone to create a safe environment. Thanks to Mrs. Helgeson for making a dream become reality.

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Prattville Intermediate Teacher Awarded Bright Ideas Grant

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Spring sports have begun, and students are involved in conditioning and practices in preparation to meet their opponents. School and district science fairs are taking place this month, and elementary and middle schools will be conducting their school-level spelling bees, with the district spelling bee taking place in March. We have already begun planning for the 2020-2021 school year. All departments are involved, from curriculum to facilities to transportation. Ensuring that every aspect of our school system is thoroughly prepared and ready to receive our students is always our goal! As part of our continuous improvement efforts, we conduct surveys and solicit input from various groups of stakeholders. One such group is my student advisory committee. This group, which meets in the fall and spring each year, will meet again in March. These students share their perspectives about their school experiences which, in turn,

allows me to provide feedback to administrators to guide their campus planning processes. In addition, we recently conducted a survey of school administrators to collect information regarding the effectiveness of the central office leadership team. Their survey ratings and comments have already led to community-based roundtable meetings to improve communication between special education staff and the Special Education Department. These are just two examples of steps we have taken to gather input from our stakeholders to improve the quality of education and services we provide to our stakeholders. February is Career Technical Education Month and I want to highlight the great things happening at the Elmore County Technical Center. We have experienced phenomenal growth over the past six years under the leadership of ECTC Director Dr. Jimmy Hull. Enrollment has more than doubled, from 350 to approximately 800 students, and even more growth is anticipated for 2020-2021. Twelve programs are offered on the ECTC campus: Automotive Service Technology, Aviation Technology, Computer Technology, Construction Technology, Electrical

Technology, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Hospitality & Tourism, Medical Sciences, Plumbing & Pipefitting, Pre-Engineering & Design, Public Safety & Law, and Welding Technology. Each of our four high schools also offer some or all the following CTE programs: Agriconstruction; Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC); Food, Wellness, & Dietetics; Business Management and Administration; Marketing, Sales & Service; Restaurant and Food and beverage Services; Finance; Advertising Design; General Agriscience; and Sports Medicine. In addition to these CTE programs, dual enrollment in technical and academic areas are offered on the ECTC campus. Elmore County Schools constantly strives to provide the best possible environment where every student is empowered and every student succeeds! 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.

Sunday Worship Services Traditional - 9:30 AM Contemporary - 11:00 AM

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Elmore County Schools

WMS Students Visited By George Washington!

Wetumpka Middle School fifth-grade students enjoyed visitors from the Alabama Sons of the American Revolution recently. The students learned about colonial uniforms, swords and a 243-year-old-musket!

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WHS Theatre Group Provides Fun for Children

The Wetumpka High Theatre Guild held a successful Royal Princess Tea Party fundraiser where many students dressed as Disney characters and children were able to meet and greet them and enjoy tasty snacks.

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ECTC Participates in Redland’s STEAM Night

Dr. Jimmy Hull and Emilie Johnson Johnson from Elmore County Technical Center took part in Redland Elementary School’s STEAM Night in January. They were able to have a little STEM-based fun with the students and also share about the programs offered at ECTC.

NEW INSTALLATIONS IN THE CADDELL SCULPTURE GARDEN

Beginning March 20, 2020

Come see new works inspired by and created from nature in our outdoor sculpture garden by North Carolina artist Patrick Dougherty and Alabama artist Jamey Grimes. Preview the works at mmfa.org Patrick Dougherty (American, born 1945), Ready or Not, 2013, mixed media, installed at the North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro, NC. Photograph by Juan Villa

One Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL Open Tuesday–Sunday; Free Admission mmfa.org | @MontgomeryMFA

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Elmore County Schools

Elmore County Holds Pre-Registration for 2020-2021 Alabama’s First Class Pre-K

Elmore County Board of Education is accepting online pre-registration applications for First Class Pre-K students for the 2020-2021 school year at Eclectic, Holtville, Coosada, and Wetumpka elementary schools. (For assistance with accessing the online application, contact one of the schools or the Board of Education.) Enrollment is open to all children four years of age on or before Sept. 1, 2020 (children who are eligible for kindergarten are ineligible). Children may be pre-registered for any/all schools; parent/guardian is responsible for transportation. Enrollees must: live in Elmore County; provide proof of residence–a current utility bill or copy of a lease or mortgage; and provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate. Child’s proof of residence and birth certificate MUST be received by the March 18 pre-registration deadline in order to be included in the drawing. Documents may be submitted by one of these methods: uploaded with online preregistration; dropped off at the Elmore County Board of Education, 100 H. H. Robison Drive, Wetumpka, AL 36092 (Office hours: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.); OR mailed to the Elmore County Board of Education, P. O. Box 817, Wetumpka, AL 36092. Failure to provide documents by the March 18 pre-registration deadline will disqualify the child from the random selection process. Upon enrollment, child’s immunization record must be provided. There is no registration fee for this program; monthly tuition of $40 per child will be charged. Go online to https://alprek.asapconnected.com. Complete the Pre-Registration Form and submit birth certificate and proof of residence. Visit www.children. alabama.gov and see Pre-Registration Info under First Class Pre-K. Acceptance is strictly through random drawing to be held on March 31 at 8:30 a.m. at the Elmore County Board of Education. (Families do not have to be present at drawing.) Notices will be e-mailed beginning April 16, 2020. River Region Parents I February 2020

ECTC Seniors Visit Southern Union

Seniors from the Elmore County Technical Center visited Southern Union State Community College in November touring academic and technical programs and learning about the application and financial aid process. Several students in the group plan to become SUSCC Bisons after graduation.

Elmore County Teachers Receive Grants from CAEC Several Bright Ideas grant winners from Elmore County are shown. Included among the group are Tonya Connor and Sheila Wright, who are both Holtville Elementary firstgrade teachers; Amy Colquitt, Elmore County Technical Center medical science instructor, and Lindsay Jordan, ECTC career coach.

Stanhope Classes Take Reality Check

Stanhope Elmore CTE classes took part in the Reality Check budgeting simulation hosted by their career coach in December. Students are assigned mock families and careers with corresponding salaries and expenses to central Alabama. During the activity, each student must navigate a monthly budget without running out of money. 48

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Holtville Culinary Students Bake for Bicentennial

Holtville High School Culinary Arts students fulfilled an order for 2000 Alabama-shaped cookies for the Bicentennial Celebration. With their instructor, Theresa Long, they logged hours of mixing, cutting, baking, icing and packaging the items for delivery.

Eclectic Holds Spelling Bees

Above are Eclectic Elementary’s third-grade Spelling Bee participants. Kristah Dopp won in round 6 spelling the word “oozing.” Below are the fourth-grade participants. Briley Boston won on round 22 spelling the word “juncture.”

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Most of my life I have been a healthy weight, yet never a healthy eater. When I ate healthily, it was an eye-opening experience. For one month I cut out all sugar and only ate a limited amount of carbohydrates. I drank only water, protein shakes, and almond milk. Here are a few things I learned: 1. My Kids Eat What I Eat

One of the most surprising aspects of changing my eating was how my kids wanted to eat all the healthy food I was eating. I assumed they wouldn’t want to try these meals. Yet when they saw me trying new foods they asked if they could try it as well. I didn’t know they liked some of the food, yet they were excited to eat it. Normally, I would give them store-bought chicken nuggets, but I learned they love plain boneless grilled chicken breast and they didn’t even ask for ketchup or anything else to put on it.

2. I Do Like Healthy Foods And So Do My Kids

I am a picky eater which means I rarely try new foods, especially healthy ones. Without realizing it, I was passing on the same poor habits to my children. I would only offer limited options of food which I knew they liked. I was surprised by how many healthy foods my children and I liked, but never tried. Since I don’t like turkey deli meat I assumed I wouldn’t like ground turkey, but I loved it. I even liked turkey burgers better than a hamburger. My daughter and I liked almond milk better than milk. Changing my eating habits forced me to go outside of my comfort zone and in the process, the whole family benefited from it.

3. Mindless Eating

By changing my eating habits, I paid attention to everything I ate. I never knew how many times I ate a slice of cheese while making my child’s lunch or finished their meal just because it was there and not because I was hungry. During the time frame of a month, I attended two different parties and found myself instinctively grabbing for food because it looked good to eat. I became aware of the mindless eating me and my family did.

4. Eating Healthy Can Be Cost-Effective

Before I started my new eating plan I went grocery shopping to prepare for it and my bill was $300. I almost passed out since I never spent that much money, due to the fact I use coupons and shop sales. At this point, I was wondering if eating healthy would be “worth it”. Part of my problem during the first shopping trip is that I bought everything on the list and didn’t plan properly. I also couldn’t stock up on sale items (healthy food does go on sale too). I learned that I can purchase chicken on-sale and freeze it. Or stock up on oatmeal when it is on sale and use a coupon. For one month I did not eat at a restaurant or fast food which saved me tons of money.

5. Too Many Carbohydrates And Dairy

Before this program I ate whole wheat pasta, but a lot of it. I also ate a large portion of cheese and other dairy products. I didn’t realize my portion sizes were too large. I was surprised to learn that I didn’t miss the cheese I used to put on my sandwich/burger or sprinkle on my pasta. The food tasted just as good without the cheese.

6. Hunger Should Not Be Your Guide

I always thought if you are hungry you should eat. I also would feed my children the minute they felt hungry. The first two days of this program I was starving. I did some research and learned that it is normal to feel hungry when you change your diet, so I learned to accept this hungry feeling. After I adjusted to my new meal plan, I did 51

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feel hunger sometimes, but I learned to feel comfortable with this feeling instead of instantly eating, and to also have my children wait until the next meal instead of mindlessly snacking.

7. Correct Portions Are Small I was surprised to learn most of the portions I ate were too large. Over time I felt full from the smaller portions. I learned by adding vegetables to a sandwich or a meal that it will help you to feel more full.

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8. Measuring Makes It Tastier Before this program, when I made oatmeal or other meals, I would guess how much water or oatmeal to put in and it usually never tasted good. By taking the time to measure everything food tasted better.

9. Planning Is Necessary For Successes I don’t like to cook or plan my meals so this was difficult for me, but I found it necessary to be successful on this program. I would plan the meals and bring a grocery list of all items with me. By planning ahead I didn’t feel the need to order fast food or grab a quick snack.

10. Sugar Is In Everything While I was on this program, I read the labels of everything (something I never did before) and I was shocked at how much sugar is in almost everything from ketchup to milk.

What I learned... For me this was challenging, but I completed it because I made a commitment to myself. This experience changed the way I view food and eating in general. I still eat healthy foods, but l sometimes eat sugar and other “non-clean” items in limited amounts. The best benefit of changing my eating habits was realizing my kids were willing to eat healthy too. I think often we as parents don’t appreciate how much our actions impact our kids. Why not give it a try for your sake...and theirs? rrp

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessing and Your Teen Magazine. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05.

River Region Parents I February 2020

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Montgomery Area Zoological Society Presents Golden Egg Award to Former Montgomery Mayor

On January 21, the Montgomery Area Zoological Society (MAZS), a support organization of the Montgomery Zoo, presented the Golden Egg Award to former Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange, for his support and desire to ensure the Montgomery Zoo is ranked among the premiere zoological facilities in the Southeast. The Golden Egg is the highest honor given by the Montgomery Area Zoological Society. It is only awarded to individuals or organizations for their long-standing dedication to the zoo and their work to ensure the Zoo continues its mission to improve the future of wildlife through conservation efforts, education/ outreach programs and to ensure that each Zoo guest gains a greater understanding of our place in the world and our responsibility to protect its resources. Past recipients include Leon Hadley (2000), Larry Stevens (2000), Mayor Emory Folmar (2000), Jack Galassini (2000), Bob Robinson Sr. (2000), Mark Sabel Family (2001), The Hobbs Foundation (2002), The Blount Foundation (2003), Adolph Weil, Jr. Family (2004), Luther Waller (2005), Helga Finks (2005), Mayor Bobby Bright (2007), Dottye Hannan (2008), Betty Brislin (2014), and Doug Goode (2018).

Pink and Pearls for Girls Awards Shooting Star Recipient

Alyssa Kemp is the first recipient of the Pink and Pearls for Girls Shooting Star Award. She was recognized for more than 75 hours of leadership and community engagement. For more info on Pink and Pearls for Girls, Inc., please call (334) 561-5091.

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Be a Role Model:

2) Start good habits early. The secret to healthy media use is to establish time limits and stick to them. Start when your kids are young by setting screen limits that work for your family’s needs and schedule. And don’t just talk the talk -- walk the walk!

Find a Healthy Balance with Media & Technology

3) Use media together.

We’ve all seen that dad yakking away on his cell phone at the playground while his 3-year-old resorts to increasingly desperate measures to get his attention. We’ve also been that parent. We answer emails, update Facebook, take a conference call, and try to get in that one last text. The thing is, kids notice -- and they’re not happy about it. Lots of studies address the impact of screen time on kids, and guidelines show how much is appropriate at what age. But researchers are just beginning to look into the effect that parents’ screen use has on kids. A Boston Medical Center study of how families at a restaurant interacted with each other when they used cell phones demonstrated that caregivers who were “highly absorbed” in their devices responded harshly to their kids’ bids for attention. And in her book The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood and Family Relationships in the Digital Age, Catherine Steiner-Adair found that kids often feel they have to compete with devices for their parents’ attention. Most importantly, kids learn their screen habits from us. It might be easier if someone just gave parents a recommended daily time limit so we’d know when to stop. In the meantime, we’ll need to find balance. But there’s a huge motivator to change our behavior: The little girl on the play structure, the boy learning to skateboard, the twins playing dress-up. They’re watching us, watching our phones.

Whenever you can, watch, play, and listen with your kids. Ask them what they think of the content. Share your values, and help kids relate what they learn in the media to events and other activities in which they’re involved. With

older kids, you can draw them out by sharing stuff from your Facebook and Instagram accounts.

4) Keep distractions to a minimum.

5 Ways to Find a Healthy Balance of Media and Technology

You probably tell your kids to turn their phones off during homework time. Get rid of the stuff that distracts you, too. Hide your apps so they don’t display, set your phone to “do not disturb,” or shut down your devices during important family time.

1) Be a role model. When kids are around, set an example by using media the way you want them to use it. Keep mobile devices away from the dinner table (learn about our Device-Free Dinner initiative), turn the TV off when it’s not being watched, and use a DVR to record shows to watch later. River Region Parents I February 2020

5) Turn off work. Many parents feel they need to be constantly accessible to their jobs. But that’s stressful, frustrating, and not realistic. Set boundaries for work time and family time. 54

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Playing with the Wonder of Wind

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Whether the wind is rifling their hair or they’re blowing out candles, kids experience the movement of air with joy and curiosity. And while they can’t see the wind, they can feel its passage and observe its effects on the world around them. The trembling of leaves on trees, clouds billowing across the sky, and flags waving from a pole, all these point to something moving unseen through their world. From sailboats to windmills, humans throughout history have harnessed the winds that stirred their youthful imaginations. Giving kids the opportunity to explore one of nature’s most mysterious forces, the following toys breathe new life into the uplifting wonder of wind and its power to move the world.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Nylon Diamond Kite

Airzooka

In addition to being a rite of passage for children worldwide, kite-flying is also an interactive way for kids to explore weather, physics, gravity and other scientific concepts through play. With its traditional shape and simple assembly, the Nylon Diamond Kite from Chipmunkk is the simplest introduction to kite-flying. Crafted from super strong, rip-resistant nylon, these kites are as tough as they are beautiful. The kit includes everything you need to get started (string, reel, support struts),conveniently packaged in a reusable bag. Encouraging kids to watch the weather forecast for windy days will help ensure their first kite lofts are successful. The Nylon Diamond Kite is just one of a colorful variety of kite-styles from Chipmunkk that families can try out as they learn to harness the power of the wind.

Take the power of the wind in hand with the Airzooka air-launching system. Lightweight with slick design, this cannon delivers a blast of wind across a room by trapping air and then firing it forward. The operation is easy, a simple pull of the elastic launcher draws air into the barrel, releasing the elastic propels an ‘air bomb’ toward its target. It never runs out of ammo, and has no small pieces to lose along the way. Airzooka also features a pop-up site for improved accuracy. Whether you’re puffing your parent’s hair from across the room, blowing up a game of air tag with friends, or honing your air blast skills with some indoor target practice, Airzooka offers endless opportunities to wield the wind at will!

(Chipmunkk)

(Squirrel Products)

Wind Power Strandbeest

Bubble Gun Blaster (BamGo)

Blowing bubbles is one of the coolest (and cleanest) ways for very young children to observe air and wind in action. Featuring a soft, foam fan rotor that’s safe for little fingers, this bubble gun is also lightweight for easy aim. A simple press of the trigger generates air into four rotating hoops, producing a multitude of iridescent bubble in an instant. The gasket sealed battery slot helps prevent corrosion of battery contacts as kids dip and blow bubbles. The bubble gun comes with an initial supply of soap solution as well as a “How To” guide on making kid-friendly bubbles with safe products from around the house. Ideal for backyards or balconies, parks or pools, the Bubble Gun Blaster blows in with clear, clean fun!

(Bo-Toys)

Inspired by artist Theo Jansen’s marvelous kinetic wind-powered sculptures that ramble across windswept dunes, the Wind Power Strandbeest combines the mechanics of wind-powered engineering with table top scale. Lightweight plastic pieces easily assemble into a working model, with a propeller-like turbine that will power it forward. While the model is somewhat fragile, it only takes the slightest of wind to breathe life into the creation. Reminiscent of the fluttering leg movements of millipedes, a breath of air or the blow from a hairdryer will start the hypnotic perambulations of the Strandbeest’s limbs as it moves forward. Guaranteed to captivate observers and stir the imagination of builders, this little model makes the most of wind and wonder.

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

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Are you one of those parents who wonders if your child’s life schedule is too crowded? Too stressful? Do you watch him play video games by the hour and get a little nervous about the long-term effects? Do you wish she had time to “just play” rather than run from school to lessons to team practices?

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If you can relate to the above situations, you’re in good company. It seems today’s busy lifestyles don’t allow much time for healthy, unstructured outdoor exploration and play. As a culture, our children are paying the price in increased anxiety, poor sleep habits, and a higher degree of difficulty with attention and engagement in learning situations. Kids seem fidgety, easily bored, unable to focus. Take a deep breath. Remember how it used to be when children played freely without a lot of oversight and adult intervention. Can you recall the days when you scraped your knee and just got up and kept playing? When you could sit under a tree and inspect the intricacies of the natural world? When you could dig and build with natural objects? When it seemed there was all the time in the world to just be? Today’s children need the same healthy, authentic play experiences. They need time to explore the out of doors, time to think and dream. Time to wonder and experiment. It’s easier than you might think. Just unplug and send the kids outside. They won’t need an agenda or directions. Once they find themselves in the great outdoors, they’ll do the rest. Here are eight benefits of unstructured, outdoor play:

tracking the tiny veins and capillaries on a leaf, of squishing the dirt and water together into mud. Kids need to play self-created games and make up their own rules apart from adult supervision. They need to learn how to try and fail and try again to make their play creations work. They need time to do these things.

Enhanced Decision-making

Children need to know how to listen and follow directions in the classroom and in sports. But they also need the opportunity to play independent of adult oversight. They need to decide to create something or explore something and then make their own plan. They need to cooperate with others to follow the rules to their own games. They need the freedom to adapt rules to their current situation and then evaluate whether or not their plan worked. All of these skills are strengthened when kids are allowed to play outside independently.

Active vs. Sedentary Play

We all know the statistics on the overall health of today’s kids. Too many are overweight and unfit. Too many are lethargic and uninspired. In short, many of our kids don’t move enough to be happy and healthy. But knowing isn’t the same as doing. Parents need to push through a bit of resistance and insist that our children go outside whether it’s time in their own backyard or access to a larger natural environment. While parks can offer some of the necessary ingredients to healthier play, wilder natural environments such as hiking trails or woodlands are even better. Nothing inspires kids to build forts and create their own games more than an untouched by man setting.

Authentic Play

Today’s kids are steeped in a virtual world. They’re adept at computer use, coding, programming and the like, and that’s fine. They need to understand the technological world. But they also need authentic, hands-on experiences that can’t be had in a classroom or computer lab. They need to be grounded in the real world and able to engage in real-life experiences, both socially and in their understandings. They need to do real-time observation, exploration and interaction with the real world. They need the sensory experiences of watching a bird find a worm, of

Room for Wonder and Joy

Watching spiders spin a web. Catching grasshoppers in a

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jar. Hearing birds sing in the trees and seeing them drop bits of food into the open beaks of their hatchlings. Wandering a beach, picking up beautiful shells or bits of driftwood, smelling the scent of grasses on a warm summer day. We all need opportunities to absorb the wonder of nature and to experience the joy of being part of the natural world. Give your kids the chance to do these simple things. They’ll benefit immensely.

break the pattern of over-managing our kids lives, but it’s vital that we do so.

Improved Social Skills and Interaction

If you’ve ever watched a group of kids play a game of softball you might see more arguing about the rules than actual play. But what you’re seeing is social skills in the making. Older kids will make the rules and try to enforce them. Quieter kids will be given chances to play, bossy kids will try to run the show. In the middle of the chaos, children will learn how the world of rules works and they’ll play a little ball too. When children are free of adult supervision, they build leadership skills and learn to work as a community. Is it pretty? Not always, but there are always lessons learned. In some of the school where increased free play has been introduced with fewer rules and the attitude of “safe enough,” the children earlier seen as bullies have emerged as leaders. Why? Because they’ve been successful in more active, hands-on play and have been given the chance to expend pent-up energy in all-out activity.

Better Classroom Performance

Some schools are experimenting with longer recesses and more frequent breaks in their school day and wonder of wonders, every one of them reports better behavior and engagement in the classroom. When kids are given enough time to move and play, they’re better able to focus their attention on classroom work. They feel better, they perform better. It’s not rocket science. In other studies, it’s reported that children who play more outside get a better night’s sleep. A well-rested child is better able to focus attention and “get into” lessons in class. Children who get enough chances for active play also feel more content and happy. Happier kids have lower levels of stress which produces better classroom performance.

Improved Mental Health

The rise in mental health problems amongst kids as young as preschool are a testament to our over-managed, over-tested and earlier to learn environment. The skills that used to be taught in first grade must now be mastered in Kindergarten. The results are children with a too hurried and too stressful world. There will always be expectations in the learning world, but for those children who enjoy more free time, more authentic outdoor fun and more opportunity to run and play and get their wiggles out, the better they’ll feel about themselves and their life. We give our children a great gift when we encourage and champion free play in the great out of doors. rrp

Self-reliance Through Exploration

We like it when our children are able to follow directions—when they’re “coachable,” and that is an important skill. But it’s also important for kids to learn how to operate via their own internal rules and understandings. Children benefit when they’re able to manage their own behaviors based on their convictions, when they can make a plan and follow it through. When they can try and fail and try again to accomplish a task. All of these skills can only be practiced when kids have the chance to engage in unstructured play free of adult supervision and oversight. It may be hard to

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Active Entertainment

Brain Support

Newtopia

Askin Synergy House

3731 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 Indoor playground designed to keep your children happy for hours.

3501 Whiting Ave., Montgomery , AL 36105 Brain Enhancement Techniques and Therapeutic tutoring.

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(334) 356.4518 newtopiafunpark.com

2211 The Ultimate Play Zone

3541 McGehee Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 Roller-skating Rink (334) 593.7180 2211ultimateplayzone.com

Eastdale Bumper Cars on Ice

1000 Eastdale Circle, Montgomery, AL 36117 Sunday-Friday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and Saturday from 11:30-12:30 and 6-8 p.m. (334) 277.2088 shopeastdale.com

Eastdale Bungee Jump

1000 Eastdale Circle, Montgomery, AL 36117 Open from 12-9, Monday-Saturday (334) 277.2088 shopeastdale.com

Eastdale Ice Palace

1000 Eastdale Circle, Montgomery, AL 36117 Ice-skating on Monday-Sunday (334) 277.2088 shopeastdale.com

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(334) 549.8955

Neurokinetic Solutions

7150 Halcyon Park Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 A coordinated body is an organized brain. Brain pump classes and Educational Consulting offered. (334) 625.0068 nksolutions007@gmail.com neurokineticsolutions.com

Fitness Gym/ Recreation Center Prattville YMCA ad on page 41

Various Locations, Prattville, AL 36067 Youth Fitness programs, Youth Sports and Swimming. Please call or visit our website for more details. (334) 361.0268 prattvilleymca.org

Launch

Club Pilates

(334) 568.2041 info@launchprattville.com launchtrampolinepark.com

(334) 603.8055 clubpilates.com

Rockin Jump

2940 Zelda Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 CP Teen - good class for athletic or inactive teenagers.

891 Boardroom Drive, Prattville , AL 36066 Multiple trampoline court with different activities. Please visit our website for more details.

5544 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, AL 36117 Where exercising is FUN! Multiple jump arenas. (334) 239.2587 rockinjump.com

Skatezone Wetumpka

88 Red Eagle Pkwy., Wetumpka, AL 36092 Roller-skating Rink (334) 567.4434 Facebook - Skatezone Wetumpka

8143 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 CP Teen - good class for athletic or inactive teenagers.

Club Pilates Zelda

(334) 328.2465 clubpilates.com

Gunter Pool - Montgomery Parks & Recreation 2390 Congress W L Dickinson Drive, Montgomery, AL 36109 funinmontgomery.com

Montgomery YMCA

Various Locations, Montgomery, AL Youth sports, Teen programs, Swimming and Fitness classes. Each location will offer unique classes to them. Please call individual locations for more information. (334) 271.4343 ymcamontgomery.org

Rebar Performance

8200 Emma Court, Pike Road, AL 36064 Cross Fit Kids is a method for teaching Greg Glassmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cross Fit to children ages 7-14.

(334) 224.3946 coachhudson1984@gmail.com rebarperformance.com

Wetumpka YMCA

200 Red Eagle Drive, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Aquatics and Youth Sports. Please call for more programs available. (334) 567.8282 ymcamontgomery.org

WP Cross fit

1555 Eastern Blvd. , Montgomery, AL 36117 Speed and Agility & Strength and Conditioning for ages (7-18) and Performance Training, 7-11 & 12-18 (228) 257.9117 wpcrossfit.com

Health Food Stores/ Meal Prep Herb Shop Wellness Center ad on page 51

8151 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Helping kids be healthier and smarter through specific testing. Vitamins & Supplements, Food Allergy Testing, Nutritional Genetical Testing to maximize your health & Natural Skin Care for Eczema and Psoriasis. (334) 271.2882 herbshopal.com

Blue Apron

Delicious, chef designed recipes. Responsibly sourced ingredients. (646) 891.4349 contact@blueapron.com blueapron.com

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Fountain City Health Foods

101 S Memorial Dr, #3621, Prattville, AL 36067 Grocery and herbal remedy store. We offer vitamins, supplements, essential oils and more. (334) 361.7550 fountaincity1@knology.net fountaincityhealthfoods.com

Fresh Market

1635 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 Organic foods and healthy snacks. (334) 272.8952 thefreshmarket.com

GNC

7966 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 Health- & sports-related vitamins, supplements & herbs, plus drinks & snacks. (334) 213.2462 gnc.org

Healthwise

5147 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, AL 36109 Functional foods, Organic Groceries, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health and Adolescent Health. (334) 277.9925 healthwisefoods.com

Hello Fresh

Chef crafted recipes, ready in under 30 minutes. (646) 846.FOOD hellofresh.com

Natural Healing by Vitamins Plus

407 Coliseum Blvd., Montgomery, AL Natural Healing Clinic specializing in restoring balance and helping the body heal itself.

Whole Foods

1450 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 Organic whole foods, Supplements, Vitamins & Supplements. Join us to Eat, Read & Make at Whole Foods Kids club, wholekidsfoundation.org. (334) 523.2940 wholefoodsmarket.com

(334) 356.8195 naturalhealingbyvitaminsplus.com

Sun Basket

Parent Support

(855) 204-7597 sunbasket.com

Alabama Department of Public Health

Cook healthy and delicious meals with organic produce + clean ingredients. Paleo, Lean & Clean, Gluten-Free, Vegan, and more

Vitamin Shoppe

7345 Eastchase Pkwy., Montgomery, AL 36117 Vitamins & Supplements, Herbs & Natural Remedies and Natural Beauty & Skin. (334) 279.4061 vitaminshoppe.com

River Region Parents I February 2020

ad on Inside Front Cover

201 Monroe Street, Montgomery, AL 36116 All Kids Children Health Insurance Program: A low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children under age 19. Benefits

include regular checkups and immunizations, sick child doctor visits, prescriptions, vision and dental care, hospitalization, mental health and substance abuse services and more. Women, Infants and Children (WIC): supplemental nutrition program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, women who had a baby within the last 6 months, infants and children under the age of five.

888-737-5437 adph.org

The Parent Assist Line (PALS)

Montgomery, AL A collaborative service of the University of Alabama Child Development Resources and the Alabama Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trust Fund. Call and a parenting resource specialist will answer, listen to you, then offer helpful and supportive information. 1-800-962-3030 apal.ua.edu

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Parks / Trails / Natural Areas Audubon

3174 Cloverdale Rd, Montgomery, AL 36106 Located in the Cloverdale neighborhood, Audubon Park is a 1 acre open, grassy area perfect for frisbee, picnics, or walking the dog.

AUM/Ron Nunn Montgomery

250 Brown Springs Rd., Montgomery, AL 36117 Batting cages and a playground.

Autauga Creek Canoe Trail

Behind City Hall, Prattville, AL 36067 Historic creek in downtown Prattville. Offers a 13 mile spring fed trail great for kayaking, canoeing or floating down.

Blount Cultural Park

3 Festival Dr., Montgomery, AL 36117 Open play area and miles of walking trails.

Buddy Watson

1801 Taylor Rd, Montgomery, AL 36117 Batting cages, walking trail and playground.

Cloverdale Park

2415 W Cloverdale Park, Montgomery, AL 36106 Playground and open green space.

Cloverdale Road Park

rentals of all types for your adventure.

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3415 Carter Hill Rd, Montgomery, AL 36111 Batting cages, open play space and playground.

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5400 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, AL 36116 Playground, tennis courts and walking trail.

Kiwanis Park

400 N Hull St, Montgomery, AL 36104 Large playground and open green space.

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Lagoon Park

474 Dr.

2855 Lagoon Park Dr., Montgomery, AL 36109 5 miles of biking and walking trails, playgrounds, batting cages and tennis courts.

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Memorial Center Park

155 Dr.

3168 Park Circle, Millbrook, AL 36054 Walking trails, creek and Kids Kingdom playground.

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Oak Park

1010 Forest Ave, Montgomery, AL 36106 Multiple walking trails and horseshoes.

704 Vill Dr.

Pratt Park

3124 Cloverdale Rd, Montgomery, AL 36106 Open green space and walking trail.

460 Doster Road, Prattville, AL 36067 Walking trails, “A Child’s Place” Playground, Splash pad and community pool.

Coosa River Adventures

Riverfront Park

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

(334) 514.0279 coosariveradventures.com

335 Coosa St, Montgomery, AL 36104 Splash Pad.

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

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Thompson Park

1655 Ray Thorington Rd, Pike Road, AL 36064 Playgrounds and batting cages.

Vaughn Road Park

3620 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, AL 36106 Boundless playgrounds, tennis courts, walking trails, large open play space and walking trails.

Pediatric Dentist & Orthodontics Bush Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 71

4740 Woodmere Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36106 Dr. Samuel Bush (334) 676.2144 bushpediatricdentistry.com

Chapman Orthodontics ad on page 28

1550 East Trinity Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36106 Dr. Lewis Chapman and Dr. Will Chapman (334) 272.9447 chapmaortho.com

Dentistry for Children ad on page 64

7047 Halcyon Summit Drive, Montgomery and 68 Village Loop, Wetumpka, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. Julia Schreiber and Dr. Benjamin Cumbus (334) 277.6830 chew-chewtrain.com

Just for Grins Orthodontics ad on page 44

7051 Halcyon Summit, Montgomery; 68 Village Loop, Wetumpka; and 207 Ashton Plaza, Millbrook, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. Dunn & Dr. Schreiber. We have locations in Millbrook and Wetumpka. (334) 270.1044 justforgrinsortho.com

Kingry Orthodontics ad on page 66

8101 Seaton Place and 31 Bridge Street, The Waters, Montgomery, AL 36116 Dr. Mark Kingry. (334)272.4900 kingryorthodontics.com

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics ad on page 74

2600 Bell Road, Montgomery; 460 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville , Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. John H. Payne, IV; Dr. J. David Stanley; Dr. Robert H. Owen and Dr. R. Davis Denney (334) 277.6690 Montgomery; (334) 358.6411, Prattville smilesfromus.com

Pike Road Dental

ad on page 37 31 Bridge Street, Pike Road, AL 36064 Dr. Victoria Wells (334) 819.7377

pikeroaddental.com

Dentists 4 Children

7015 Halcyon Park Dr., Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. Richard K. Vann, Dr. Heather Thornton and Dr. James M. Jenkins (334) 284.1100 dentist4children.com

Smart Smiles

315 Ray Thorington Rd, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. Foch Smart (334) 271.2345 smartsmiles.com

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TW Orthodontics

4635 Woodmere Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. Nick Turner, Dr. Brett Wood and Dr. Jeffrey Shelley (334) 260.8166 twortho.com

Pediatrics Pediatric Associates PA 420 Cotton Gin Road, Montgomery; 645 McQueen Smith Rd. N, Prattville Danica Taylor, CRNP, Jamie Mathis, CRNP, Melissa Johnson, CRNP, Dr. Allen Newton, MD, Dr. John Sumners, M.D., Dr. James Rabon, M.D. (334) 260.9129, Montgomery and (334) 361.7811, Prattville www.montg-pvillepediatric.com

All About Kids 2921 Zelda Rd., Montgomery, AL 36106 Dr. Michael Doyle, M.D.; Dr. Nicole Sheffield, M.D (334) 277.5431 www.zeldapeds.com

East Montgomery Pediatrics 337 St. Lukes Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. Elmer Roque (334) 356.1411

Partners in Pediatrics 8160 Seaton Place, Montgomery, AL 36117 136 E. Main Street, Prattville, AL Catherine Woods, M.D., Susan Brannon, M.D., Lamenda Blakeney, M.D., Elizabeth Diebel, M.D., Rama Mukkamala, M.D., Melissa S. McNally, M.D., Dr. Danielle Speight, M.D., and Sabrina Colburn, CRNP (334) 272.1799 www.mykidsdr.com

Pediatric Healthcare 4700 Woodmere Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36106 David Morrison, M.D., Den Trumbell, M.D., and Jeffrey Simon, M.D. (334) 273.9700 www.pedhealthcare.com

Physician’s to Children 470 Taylor Road, Suite 210, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. Kendra Gillis Colvin, MD, Dr. Cheryl Gardner Fekete, MD, Dr. Alicia Hughes, MD, Dr. Dina Winston, MD, Dr. Olivia C Garcia, MD, Dr. Karen Doles, MD and Dr. Marissa Hoy, MD (334) 293.5033 www.childrensal.org

Professional Pediatrics 4154 Carmichael Rd., Montgomery, AL 36106 Dr. C Allen White, Dr. Robert L. Coggins and Dr. David W. Drennen (334) 271.5959 www.professionalpediatrics.com

Pediatrics/Wetumpka Carlile Pediatrics

78 Cambridge Court, Wetumpka, AL 36093 Dr. Carlile (334) 567.6915 www.carlilepediatrics.com

Wetumpka Pediatric Clinic

815 Jackson Trace Rd., Wetumpka, AL 36092 Dr. Anne Young, Kasey Emmons, CRNP and Kathleen Calhoun, CRNP (334) 567.2882 ivycreekhealth.com/primary-care/ wetumpka-pediatrics rrp

River Region Parents I February 2020

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Just Mercy

Dolittle

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: A Violence: C+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B “You don’t know what you into down here in Alabama. When you’re guilty from the moment you born.” So says death row inmate Walter McMillan (Jamie Foxx) to earnest young lawyer Bryan Stevenson (Michael B Jordan). An idealistic graduate of Harvard Law School, Stevenson has moved to Alabama and open the Equal Justice Initiative, a small office dedicated to helping the most vulnerable victims of the justice system. As he digs into McMillan’s case, Stevenson uncovers a web of perjury, witness intimidation, and undisclosed evidence, eventually realizing that his client is on death row for a murder he did not commit. Director Destin Daniel Cretton deserves credit for not sensationalizing this case but for providing a measured, dignified retelling of the tragic story. And Jamie Foxx’s portrayal of McMillan steals the show. Just Mercy can be a hard film to watch, with scenes that alternately filled me with hopelessness, frustration, and anger. Fortunately, the film isn’t 136 minutes of unrelieved darkness. There is hope in the scenes of community and loving support extended to those who suffer. There is hope in the determination of Stevenson and his growing staff to free the innocent and to end capital punishment. And there is hope that their efforts at legal reform will be successful. Parents considering family viewing can be assured that the PG-13 rating is appropriate. There is some swearing in the film and many viewers will be deeply disturbed by a few scenes. But the scariest moment in the movie comes at the very beginning and it’s a simple phrase on a dark screen: “Based on a true story”.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: B Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: C The story opens with Dr. Dolittle (Robert Downey Jr.), nursing his grief after the death of his beloved wife and living as a recluse on his estate. But then Queen Victoria (Jessie Buckley) falls ill and sends a tween-aged friend to extend an invitation the physician can’t refuse. Dolittle’s medical skill and his dog’s refined sense of smell lead to a diagnosis, but, alas, the only possible cure is the fruit of the Eden Tree, a semi-mythical plant which has never been proven to exist. The doctor, apprentice Tommy Stubbins (Harry Collett), and most of the talking menagerie head off on their ocean voyage, unaware that there are members of the court who don’t want the queen to recover and will stop at nothing to ensure Dolittle’s failure. Sadly, Dolittle also has some unexpected content problems. Parents will be pleased that there are no swear words, sexual activity, or alcohol consumption. But they won’t be happy to see Dolittle sedated against his will so his animals can “groom” him. Forced use of a drug is a big red flag in any movie, but particularly one for kids. But the most grotesque moment in the film is when the doctor has a most unusual patient – a very cranky dragon (Frances de la Tour). With his usual acumen, Dolittle diagnoses her with an “obstruction” in her nether regions. The movie is also chock-full of moderately violent action scenes, but everything else fades into insignificance after seeing the doctor up to his elbow inside a dragon’s backside. If you’re looking for a fun family movie night, Dolittle is unlikely to fit the bill, unless your kids really love talking animals, fart jokes, and dragon posteriors, and don’t care if the plot hangs together.

Underwater

The Turning

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: CSexual Content: B Profanity: D Alcohol / Drug Use: A In the depths of Pacific Ocean’s Mariana Trench, Tian Industries has built a massive mining complex to extract resources from the earth. Unfortunately for the crew, things have started to go wrong, beginning with a massive earthquake that destroys nearly 70% of the station. Worse yet, the damage threatens to send the nuclear reactor which powers the facility into a meltdown. A mechanical engineer, Norah Price (Kristen Stewart), must team up with the other survivors, including Captain Lucien (Vincent Cassel) and Emily Haversham (Jessica Henwick), a biologist, in order to escape the crippled complex. But out in the deep dark water, something is moving. Underwater is astoundingly unoriginal, but oddly watchable nonetheless. As far as parental concerns go, Underwater is a pretty standard PG-13 action/horror. It stands out for a lack of awkward sexual innuendo or dialogue but overcompensates in the language and violence categories. With three extreme profanities and around 18 scatological curses, the movie is getting away with a lot at the PG-13 level. The violence is more of what you’d expect, but it still isn’t wholesome family fun to watch a man’s pressure suit break and see what happens when the human body is suddenly exposed to 8 tons of pressure per square inch. I guess you could frame it as a science lesson? Maybe not. Underwater is so stereotypical it almost feels like it belongs in another movie. Movies like this set your brain firmly in the off position, rendering any complex thinking impossible for the following half hour at minimum. As such, it’s a perfect choice for teenagers looking for a quick scare.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: D Violence: CSexual Content: D Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: C Kate (Mackenzie Davis) has been teaching school, but when an opportunity comes up to become a live-in tutor for a young girl, she packs up and moves to the remote manor in the Maine countryside. Flora (Brooklynn Prince), the young girl Kate is supposed to be teaching, has lost both of her parents, and her last nanny disappeared in the middle of the night. Determined not to abandon the girl, Kate sticks to her post even when Flora’s delinquent older brother, Miles (Finn Wolfhard) is expelled from his boarding school and comes under Kate’s care. But as more and more strange things happen around her, Kate begins to wonder if she shouldn’t move back to the city. The content is a little much for a PG-13 rating, although in a pleasant surprise, there is far less profanity than I would expect in a horror movie. The violence also seems milder – until you get to the scene of sexual violence. This makes the film feel much darker than the other categories would indicate. It isn’t a careless treatment of that subject, but that doesn’t make it any more pleasant to watch, and it doesn’t make this a teen-friendly horror flick. For adult genre fans, The Turning could be a fun horror movie, especially if you’re willing to cut and run before the end. There’s a pretty clear point where you can choose to end the movie, and that’s where I’d get up and start making my way for the door. The big advantage of that, aside from not having to deal with the confusing ending, is that you don’t have to listen to every other person in the audience asking aloud: “What was that about?” 67

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A Page in a Book Two For One Reading: Bilingual Books For young children, collecting language is an active part of their brain chemistry. Children are built to absorb information; their minds subconsciously gathering words and meanings, constantly in a state of passive learning. While we can all learn a new language, research shows it is easier for young children to acquire a second language, boosting multiple cognitive and social benefits for the child. The read-aloud age is an ideal time to introduce a new language to kids. With meaningful stories and paired reading, kids and adults can pick up words and phrases that may spur further bilingual exploration. Featuring simple words and phrases in two languages, the following titles offer two-for-one learning folded into one story time.

Palo y Piedra / Stick and Stone

by Beth Ferry, Illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Stick stands alone on a beach staring at the empty line of the horizon, while round Stone gazes at the moon. Stick is solitario (lonely) and Stone is sola (alone). Both lament their solitude as they make their separate ways to the playground. When Stone gets teased by Pinecone, Stick charges in with just the right word to send the bully on his way. As they discover the languages of friendship, these very different characters find their individual strengths multiply when they work together. Combining very brief bilingual text (English and Spanish), some clever puns, and expressive illustrations, this title is a sweet introduction friendship that transcends language.

Let’s Learn Japanese: First Words for Everyone

by Aurora Cacciapuoti (Chronicle Books) Wildly divergent from English in both sound and symbol, Japanese language can be a challenge to explore. Let’s Learn Japanese offers simple translations for common objects punctuated with Japanese flair. Filled with pictures and items from everyday life, each object has a caption in English followed by its kanji (ideographic symbol), its kana (sound symbols) and its romaji (essentially the pronunciation in English).The illustrations are clear, clean and grouped in themes, allowing for the extra text information to be more easily digested. Ideal for sampling Japanese words and testing the water for more in-depth language learning, this title is an excellent primer for children with an interest in Japanese culture. Picking up Japanese words is as easy as ichi-ni-san!

Penguins Love Colors

by Sarah Aspinall (Scholastic) Even though they live in a very snowy, very white environment, these six penguin siblings love color. Named after brightly colored botanicals, Tulip, Tiger Lily, Dandelion, Broccoli, Bluebell and Violet want to create something special for their Mama. And what better gift for her than to make something that features their own colorful namesakes. Each penguin embraces their own hue as they enthusiastically (and messily) craft gifts that only a mother can truly appreciate. The bilingual text asks the reader questions to more fully engage them in the penguins’ story. With its sweet and simple message, Penguins Love Colors delivers twice the tale in both English and Spanish.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

River Region Parents I February 2020

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Whether they arrive in the family biologically, through adoption or remarriage, kids donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to choose their siblings. With diverse personalities collected under one roof, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wonder brothers and sisters have antagonized each other, and aggravated their parents, since time began. Instead of losing your cool with your clashing kids, try a few of these tips to enjoy a more harmonious household and teach valuable life skills in the process. River Region Parents I February 2020

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Take a step back. Unless a sibling squabble is ramping up

“It’s important for siblings to resolve their issues on their own so they can practice managing challenging interpersonal interactions,” says child and adolescent psychologist Dr. Simone Moody. “As a parent you will not always be there to rescue your children and solve their problems.” Developing conflict resolution skills will not only help kids better manage a dispute on the playground, but will also serve them well later in life as they navigate confrontations in their personal relationships or with a pesky co-worker.

into a hair-pulling, cat-scratching, fist-fighting kind of affair, allow your kids to work out their disagreement on their own. “I give parents permission to not get involved. When we intervene, we are not allowing the skills of conflict resolution or problem-solving,” says Jennifer Jackson-Rice, MSW-LSCSW, a therapist certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.

Don’t take sides. When your child complains to you of an injustice committed by their sib, you may be tempted to take sides, especially if one child got hit. But, it takes two to tangle. You can’t know for sure how the situation unfolded or what instigated the physical aggression. Jackson-Rice encourages parents not to get into the weeds of who-did-what-when. “There’s nothing positive that can come out of refereeing a sibling disagreement,” she says. “The only reason we’re involved is because someone wants attention from us, and it’s negative attention.”

Establish house rules. “Make sure your kids understand your family values in terms of kindness and treating each other with love and respect,” says parent coach Sara Minges. Sit down with your children to discuss your family’s values and a simple code of conduct, like keeping hands to yourself, using respectful language and sharing.

quarreling offspring for awhile. “We need to take a break, and we need to calm down. It doesn’t have to be a punishment. It’s just learning to cope and get through the situation,” Jackson-Rice says.

Reward the positive. “Set an attainable goal for following the rules to earn a desired reward,” Moody says. “Catch your children following these rules often. Provide praise immediately and give them a token to represent each step toward their goal.” For example, you might create a sticker chart or marble/cotton ball jar and every time your kids work well as a team, they receive a token in the jar or a sticker on the chart. When the tokens reach a certain number, they earn a special family activity.

Foster problem solving. Ask your kids to consider each other’s feelings and work toward problem-solving their disagreements, with empathy-building questions like: “How would it make you feel if your brother/sister said that to you?” and solution-seeking queries like: “What can you do to help the situation?”

Know your hot buttons. “As parents, we are models for our children. It’s important to remain calm and respectful so that we can teach our children to treat others in the same manner,” Moody says.

Take breaks. Instead of playing judge and jury, separate your

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When creating your house rules, consider the types of behaviors that your kids do that flip your patience. “What are the things that drive you bonkers? Try to come out with as comprehensive or realistic a list as possible, whether it’s yelling and screaming, throwing things, stomping feet or using foul language,” Minges says. With a plan in place, it will be easier to keep your cool. For example, you might say: “You know our rule about name-calling. This is your first warning. Do it again and you’ll lose your video game time today.” Calmly and consistently follow through whenever necessary. “Kids will learn ‘Hey, I’m not going to be able to get mom or dad angry so that they just give in,’” Minges says. “If this is how it happens all of the time, it makes it harder for them to take advantage of the situation or try to get out of something.”

Acknowledge conflict resolution in action. “Remem-

ber to praise your children when they resolve an issue appropriately,” Moody says. “If only one child is managing the situation appropriately, give praise and attention to that child’s behavior (‘great job staying calm!’) and ignore minor misbehavior of the other child (taunting, boasting and complaining).” By focusing on the positive interactions, the negative interactions are likely to decrease. “Whatever we water grows. Whatever we pay attention to or whatever we give our kids attention for will grow,” JacksonRice says.

Don’t compare your kids. While competition can be

healthy, it shouldn’t fuel all out war in your household. Try not to perpetuate sibling rivalry by drawing comparisons between your kids. One child may learn to ride a bike sooner than another, while the other figures out how to cross the monkey bars faster. One may be better at basketball while the other excels at art. “Focus on each child’s individual strengths. Encourage your children to participate in activities that foster their unique strengths,” Moody says. Also, spend time one-on-one with your kids by engaging them in their favorite activities, playing a game or going for walks together. Individual time strengthens parent-child bonds and helps kids feel valued for who they are rather than how well they perform at a particular activity.

Promote a team atmosphere. Initiate team-building

opportunities like playing a game as team rather than as opponents, helping to prepare dinner, cleaning up after a meal or doing yard work together. And, again, reinforce positive interactions by praising your kids whenever they work or play well together. rrp

When to Consult a Professional

• Parents can’t spend time with both children at the same time • Routine physical aggression • Frequent degrading statements directed at a sibling (you’re ugly/I hate you/you’re fat, etc.) • Causes significant distress in the family • Interferes with quality family life Sources: Jennifer Jackson-Rice; Dr. Simone Moody

Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of a pair of squabbling siblings, who are forced to work out their differences while doing yard work and post-dinner clean up.

River Region Parents I February 2020

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Saturday, February 1

Old Cahawba Road to Freedom Wagon Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. 100 years before the 1965 Voting Rights March focused on the Dallas County courthouse in nearby Selma, a brave community of recently emancipated African-Americans gathered around an older courthouse in Cahawba. This wagon tour tells the story of Cahawba’s African-American majority and traces their path with a special emphasis on how they reshaped Cahawba as they pursued their dreams of equality. Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook.com/ oldcahawba. Admission is $8/children and $10/adults. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Agitators -- Through February 13 Written by Mat Smart; directed by Logan Vaughn. The Agitators tells of the enduring but tempestuous friendship of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass. Recommended ages 13+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net/ or call (334) 271-5353. The Civility Paintings -- Through February 15 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Alabama State Capitol, The Old Supreme Court Chamber, 600 Dexter Avenue. The ALABAMA 200 finale event commemorates the stories of our people, places and path to statehood. This exhibition bridges the year 2019, marking the conclusion of the ALABAMA 200 Bicentennial celebration, with the National Women’s Suffrage Movement Centennial commemorating Women’s Right to Vote through nationwide celebrations of Women in American History. Family-friendly and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 242-3935. Gatsby’s Here -- Through February 29 10 a.m.-3p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, 919 Felder Ave. Gatsby’s Here is a new exhibit on the history and influence of The Great Gatsby. The exhibit will feature memorabilia from the original 1926 stage play and silent film, as well as the 1949 film starring Alan Ladd, the 1974 production starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow, in addition to a tuxedo and Gatsby Pink Suit on loan from Brooks Bros. from the 2013 Warner’s Bros. production. Admission: $10 per person. For more info, call (334) 264-4222 or visit www.thefitzgeraldmuseum.org/.

Guided Nature Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook -- Also March 7 10 a.m. Hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced ANC naturalist by your side. Learn how to bird or ID plants and animals, splash through the creek, or catch insects in the meadow! General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Monday, February 3

Valentines for Veterans -- Through February 13 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Pike Road Town Hall, 9575 Vaughn Road. Drop off homemade or store-bought cards with a sweet note through Feb. 13 to be delivered to local veterans in time for a Valentine’s surprise! For more info, call (334) 272-9883 or visit www. pikeroad.us. Feast of Flavours 2020 5:30 p.m. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Local chefs and mixologists will prepare tastes of entrees, desserts, and cocktails that are sure to delight. Tickets are limited. Must be 21+ to attend. General admission: $35 per person. For info, visit https://asf. net/feast-of-flavours or call (334) 271-5353.

Tuesday, February 4

The Montgomery Academy aMAzing Evening 6 p.m. 1550 Perry Hill Road. For parents and students entering kindergarten this August. For more info, call (334) 273-7156 or visit montgomeryacademy.org.

Wednesday, February 5

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public Noon-1 p.m. Normally the first Wednesday of each month. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water provided. Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also February 19 & March 4 Noon-1 p.m. Each Artful Yoga session will draw

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inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the Museum. Led by instructor Nancy Beale, the class is free for members ($10 for non-members) and suitable for all levels; beginners are welcome. Bring your yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/discover/artful-yoga/ or call (334) 240-4333. Wild Wednesdays at the Montgomery Zoo Throughout February. Buy one admission at regular price and receive another admission of the same or lesser value for FREE. Admission includes: Admission to the Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, Petting Zoo, Parakeet Cove, Stingray Bay, Elephant keeper talk at 10:30am daily, Lion keeper talk and training at 1pm daily. For more information, contact (334) 625-4900 or zooinfo@montgomeryal.gov.

Thursday, February 6

Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -Also Feb. 13, 20 & 27 2:30-3 p.m. ArtWorks at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the arts of different cultures. ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing, and traditions of the country in focus (this month is Philippines). For more info, call (334) 2404333 or visit mmfa.org/. Wetumpka Depot Players Present Big River Through February 22 7:30 p.m. performances except for a 2 p.m. matinee Feb. 16. A musical featuring the adventures of Huckleberry Finn with a large and diverse cast. Written by Mark Twain and directed by Kristy Meanor. For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Friday, February 7

Alabama Decorative Arts Symposium Through February 8 4 p.m. Friday; 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery presents the

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FamilyCalendar 2020 Cultural Crossroads, Alabama Decorative Arts Symposium: The Emerging State, 1819-1860. The Emerging State will examine the influence that existed on the disappearing frontier as well as how the “outside” world of imports influenced artistic expressions. Registration: $100 per person (includes reception and lunch) and deadline is February 1. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www. landmarksfoundation.com/. Jeff Davis High Theatre Department Performs Cinderella: A Dream Come True 1 & 6 p.m.Don’t miss this timeless retelling of a childhood classic in the Dannelly Elementary cafetorium.

Saturday, February 8

Pike Road Father-Daughter Dance 6-9 p.m. St. James United Methodist Church, 9045 Vaughn Road in Montgomery. Tickets are $25 per person and are sold through PayPal. For more info, visit https:// pikeroadfatherdaughterdance.com/. Meet the King: King Snakes at Alabama Nature Center 10 a.m. During this program we will get to meet some of our resident ANC king snakes and even get to touch a few! Come learn more about what makes king snakes so unique. General admission applies and includes this awesome program. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Beaver Trail 5K 9 a.m. Lagoon Park Trails, Pete Peterson Lodge, 2635 Gunter Park Dr., Montgomery. The Beaver Trail will take runners on the beautiful Lagoon Park Trails, Montgomery’s outdoor adventure area. After the race, runners will enjoy complimentary post-race refreshments and musical entertainment. In addition, there will be a mountain bike time trial with awards for several age groups following the run awards ceremony. For more info, visit runsignup.com/Race/ AL/Montgomery/BeaverTrail5K Prattville Mardi Gras Parade and Events 8 a.m. car show in Pratt Park, followed by vendors, food opportunities and inflatables at 11 a.m. The Mardi Gras parade will begin at 2 p.m. from the Autauga County Courthouse. Floats will proceed on Main Street through the historic downtown, turning right on Northington, then making a left on Doster Road. It will end at Stanley Jensen Stadium. For more info, call (334) 595-0850 or visit www. prattvilleal.gov/. AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also February 22 For guests and families living with autism or other special needs, AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don’t forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly. Whole Foods Second Saturday Kids’ Club 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Each second Saturday, Whole Foods will

2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690

host fun, hands-on craft activities to teach kids about healthy eating. It’s totally free, and every participant gets a piece of fruit and whatever they make in the workshop! For more info, call (334) 523-2940 or visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/montgomery. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/events/137445469279 2666/?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. $20 per person and pre-registration required. For info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@ morganstanley.com. Visit www.secondsaturday.com. Second Saturdays at Old Alabama Town 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Second Saturdays bring special programs for the whole family including crafts, music and lectures! Children are free with a paid adult. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown. com/.

460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411

Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen River Region Parents I February 2020

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FamilyCalendar Sunday, February 9

Afternoon Tea with ADT (Alabama Dance Theatre) 2 p.m. Capitol City Club. Join us as the Alabama Dance Theatre honors and treasures the memories of our founding artistic director, Miss Kitty. All will enjoy a traditional English tea—complete with tea sandwiches, scones, delightful sweets and, of course, tea and lemonade for our younger guests. Tickets are $35. ADT dancers will entertain our guests and pose for pictures in beautiful Cinderella costumes. Space is limited. Purchase your tickets soon! For info, call (334) 625-2590. Second Sundays at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Families and friends are invited to spend the second Sunday of each month at the Museum enjoying the sounds of live music, making an art project in the studio, or taking a short docent-led tour—or all three! Drop in anytime between 2 and 4 for this free offering. For more info, visit http:// mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents And Then They Came for Me: Remembering the World of Anne Frank -- Through February 15 Written by James Still; directed by Addie Gorlin. And Then They Came for Me is a unique theatrical experience. The multimedia play combines videotaped interviews of Holocaust survivors Ed Silverberg and Eva Schloss with live actors recreating scenes from their lives during World War II, including their

memories of Anne Frank. Recommended ages 12+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net/ or call (334) 271-5353.

Wednesday, February 12

Wild Wednesdays at the Montgomery Zoo Details on February 5. Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call (334) 5676301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

Thursday, February 13

Cloverdale Playhouse Presents The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time -Through February 23 7:30 performances except for 2 p.m. matinees Feb. 16 & 23. Written by Simon Stephens; based on the book by Mark Haddon. Recommended for ages 14+. Call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/ for more info. Theatre AUM Presents Gruesome Playground Injuries -- Through Feb. 15; also Feb. 20-23 7:30 p.m. performances except one 2 p.m. matinee Feb. 23. $10 general admission; $5 senior citizen, non-AUM students, and military (with ID); and free for AUM students, faculty, staff, and alumni (with AUM ID). For reservations or more info, contact Katie at (334) 244-3632 or kpearso2@aum.edu.

Prattville High School Theatre Group Presents Othello -- Also February 20-23 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday. 1315 Upper Kingston Rd, Prattville. One of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies in a vibrant, thrilling production that incorporates elements of various styles of physical theatre into our own unique blend. TICKETS ARE $5. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Little Women -- Through March 1 7:30 p.m. performances most days and 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. Adapted from Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel and directed by Patrick McDonald. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door (if available). For more info or to reserve your tickets, visit cc.prattvilleal.gov or call (334) 595-0850. MPAC Presents Joe Bonamassa 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Two-time GRAMMY-nominated blues-rock sensation Joe Bonamassa is hailed internationally as one of the greatest guitar players of his generation. He is one of today’s top live performers and his enthusiastic live shows are one of the biggest parts of his career. Tickets begin at $69. For info, visit mpaconline.org/ or (334) 481-5100. Winters North and South Celebration at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 5-8 p.m. The public is invited to gather with us for a celebration of winters north and south. Participants will cozy up on the terrace, sip on specialty cocktails, and enjoy tasty hors d’oeuvres. They will have an opportunity to engage with the new exhibitions in unique and exciting ways by hearing from artists and having their portraits captured, all while enjoying the sounds of live music. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

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FamilyCalendar Friday, February 14

The Capri Theatre Presents The Princess Bride 7:30 p.m. The Capri Theatre, 1045 E Fairview Ave. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org/ or call (334) 262-4858.

15th Annual Daddy Daughter Diamond Princess Ball 6-8 p.m. Ware-Farley-Hood House, 450 North Hull Street at Old Alabama Town. This glittering ball is a fundraiser for Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery and is open to girls 6th grade and under (former princesses 7th grade and up are invited to become members of the DPB Board). Moms are not allowed! Dads, favorite uncles and grandfathers will be the princessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s date for the evening of dancing, fabulous food and, of course, tiaras fit for royalty! Attire is black tie optional. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com/. Fall in Love with the Art of Bee Keeping 9-11 a.m. at Pike Road Founders Station, 4902 Pike Road. Mike Keller, local apiculturist and owner of Southern Sweet Bee, will share the basics of bee keeping and maintaining a healthy hive. This free event, presented in partnership with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, is perfect for anyone interested in bee keeping - no experience required! Extraction techniques and more! Registration is required. Call (334) 272-9883 or visit https://www. pikeroad.us/.

River Region Parents I February 2020

MPAC Presents Asleep at the Wheel with Supporting Act Brennen Leigh 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $22. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Open Gym at The Armory 7-9 p.m. For ages 5-18. Students do not have to be a member but must have a waiver signed by parent. $10 per student due at registration. Last day to register is 7 p.m. Thursday prior to the event; may not register day of event. For more info, visit https:// armoryathletics.com/ or call (334) 625-2789. Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also February 28 6-10 p.m. 6100 Brewbaker Blvd, Montgomery. $25 for the first child / $20 for each additional sibling. Ages 5-12. Pizza and drinks provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more. For more info, call (334) 284-2244 or visit http://unitedgymstarsandcheer.com/. Walk-ins welcome (until maximum capacity is reached). Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also February 28 10 a.m.-noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round (except during November and December). Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

Saturday, February 15

Hoppity Hop: Frogs and Toads at Alabama Nature Center 10 a.m. We will jump, leap and hop into the world of our favorite amphibians, frogs and toads. You will get to meet some of our resident educational animals including native tree frogs and toads. General admission applies and includes this awesome program. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Highlights Tours 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view and latest exhibitions at the Museum with docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. These tours are free and open to the public, no reservations required. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. Millbrook Mardi Gras Festival and Parade 9 a.m. at the Village Green with live entertainment and vendors, followed by a parade at noon. There is a special emphasis on fun things for kids to do including walking on water in a bubble, a bungee jump, pony rides, sliding chutes, and other activities. Traditional Cajun foods, barbecue, funnel cakes, Philly cheesesteaks, Polish sausages, hamburgers, shrimp, chicken, buffalo strips, pork skins, kettle corn, popcorn, and much more. The parade begins on the south end of Main Street at Southgate Shopping Plaza (across from The Smokehouse Barbecue LLC) and ends at the Millbrook Shopping Center (Climate

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FamilyCalendar Control Storage) parking lot. For more info, visit www. millbrookrevelers.org or call (334) 318-0039. Montgomery Zoo Animal Enrichment Day 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tour the Zoo and observe how animals respond to an assortment of new creative and behavior-stimulating enrichment items. More than 15 species will take part in the semi-annual event, including the tigers, elephants, chimpanzees, and jaguars. Presented in the form of special toys, unique scents, puzzles, boxed goodies or food treats, the enrichment items provide Zoo animals with both mental and physical exercise. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

Monday, February 17

Montgomery Symphony Classical Concert 8:30 p.m. Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts, 251 Montgomery Street. The MSO is joined by internationally acclaimed local pianist, Dr. Adonis Gonzalez in a performance of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 17. This concert will finish with the monumental Fourth Symphony by Johannes Brahms. For tickets, visit www.montgomerysymphony.org or call (334) 240-4004.

Wednesday, February 19

See Me: Exploring Animals in Art at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 p.m. Led by ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan, individuals with different abilities (ages 6 and older) are invited to explore the galleries, point out animals in art, and then create a mixed-media artwork of an animal. Free but registration required. Call (334) 625-4365. Wild Wednesdays at the Montgomery Zoo Details on February 5.

Thursday, February 20

Food For Thought Noon-1 p.m. The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “Margaret Murray Washington, Tuskegee Reformer,” presented by Sheena Harris. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Always a Bridesmaid -- Through March 1 7:30 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturdays; 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. Written by Jones, Hope & Wooten; directed by Stephanie McGuire. In this hilarious comedic romp, four friends have sworn to keep the promise they made on the night of their senior prom: to be in each other’s weddings… no matter what. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www. millbrooktheatre.com/. Friends and Newcomers Club of Prattville/ Millbrook 9:30 a.m. at the Bradford Branch YMCA, 972 McQueen Smith Rd., Prattville. General meeting every third Thursday. All ladies welcome. Guest speaker this month is Lt. Col. USAF Nia Bluford from Maxwell. The program title is “This is a Way of Service.” For more info, contact Nancy at (334) 414-8185 or nschrull@knology.net. Beekeeping 101: Learn Basic Honey Bee Management -- Six Times Weekly through March 26 Elmore County Extension Office. Sponsored by the Central Alabama Beekeepers Association. Cost per person is $60 if paid by Feb. 13, or $75 if payment received after Feb. 13. Your tuition will cover learning about getting started, honeybee biology, getting your bees and much more taught by board members and

Alabama Master Beekeepers. For more info, call Stacy at (334)224-8355 or Allyson at (334) 799-2254. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. This friendly critique led by Museum educators is an opportunity for artists to share and receive feedback from their peers. Get an up-close look at artists, their work, and the creative process in this unique program designed for artists in the area. Participants are invited to bring one work of art to each session for discussion. Enjoy light refreshments and networking with other professionals whether or not you choose to bring artwork. ArtTalk is free to attend, but registration is required. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at bmorrison@mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4365.

Saturday, February 22

Critter Crawl 5K and Yeti Dash The Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook. 7:30 a.m. Registration station open for packet pickup; 8:30 a.m. Critter Crawl 5K begins; 9:45 a.m. Yeti Dash begins; 10:30 a.m. Trophy Ceremony. The Critter Crawl is a TRAIL RUN benefiting the ANC education programs that takes runners through a portion of the ANC’s 5-mile trail system. The Yeti Dash is a 1-mile trail system run. Nature/critter costumes are mandatory for any guests who wish to participate in the Yeti Dash. Advanced tickets: 5K - $25; 1 Mile Yeti Dash - $20. Add $5 day of race. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

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FamilyCalendar MPAC Presents Kountry Wayne 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $47. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Wetumpka Mardi Gras Celebration 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Historic Downtown Wetumpka. Vendors will begin selling their wares at 9 a.m., with the parade at 1 p.m. Parade will utilize the extended Christmas on the Coosa route. Parade will assemble at First Baptist Church and end at the Wind Creek Casino employee parking lot. Festival foods include chicken on a stick, alligator, gumbo, smoked turkey legs, red beans and rice and much more. There will be pony rides, water walker, a climbing wall and the zip ride. In addition, we will have a DJ onsite all day! Visit WetumpkaMardiGras.com for more info.

Sunday, February 23

Jewish Food Festival & Treasure Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Temple Beth Or, 2246 Narrow Lane Rd., Montgomery. In addition to purchasing delicious food or finding some very unique treasures, visitors have an opportunity to attend a short session to learn more about Jewish customs. This event is free to attend and there is no charge for parking. For more info, call (334) 262-3314 or visit https:// templebethor.net/.

Tuesday, February 25

Wyatt Edmondson/The Wilson Brothers/ Cameron DuBois 7 p.m. The Capri Theatre, 1045 E Fairview Ave. Celebrate the release of If I Don’t Try, the third EP by Montgomery native/Nashville-based singer-songwriter Wyatt Edmondson. Featured performances by The Wilson Brothers and Cameron DuBois. Tickets are $15 in advance. VIP tickets are available in limited quantity. Includes premium seating and a signed event poster. Ticketing via Eventbrite. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org/ or call (334) 262-4858.

Wednesday, February 26

Wild Wednesdays at the Montgomery Zoo Details on February 5.

Thursday, February 27

Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon All women of the River Region are invited to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. The program will be a fashion show sponsored by Dillards with Newcomer members as models. Luncheon cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, February 24, to Janie Kennett at (813) 309-0300 or jmkennett12@yahoo.com. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com for more info.

Friday, February 28

Montgomery Zoo’s Leap into the Museum Family Fun Night 5:30-8:30 p.m. Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, 325 East Vandiver Blvd., Montgomery. An educational program and family fun night with hands-on experience, all sorts of adventure, and lots of fun geared for boys and girls aged 5-12 years old, and their parents. It includes a flashlight tour of the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, scavenger hunts, live animal presentations, discovery stations and a craft time. To register, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

River Region Parents I February 2020

Saturday, February 29

What Do Animals Eat? at Alabama Nature Center 10 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Have you ever wondered what different animals eat? Today we will look at what some of Alabama’s wildlife like to eat. We will dissect an owl pellet to see what they have eaten. You will also get to witness one of our resident educational box turtles in action! General admission applies and includes this awesome program. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Russell Forest Run – Russell Crossroads 7:30-10:30 a.m. 19 Russell Farms Road, Alexander City. Runners will hit the trails at Russell Crossroads and receive a new spectacular view from Heaven Hill. Entry fee is just $40 per runner/walker (increases to $50 after midnight on the 28th) and includes a long sleeve T-shirt, the famous after-party at The Stables with live entertainment, cold beer, and our Famous Grits Bar, as well as the awards ceremony. The finish line is closer to The Stables on the former outbound part of the race. For more info, call (256) 397-1019 or visit www. russelllandsonlakemartin.com/. Late Winter Zoo Volunteer Serve Day 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum. We are picking a single day to gather volunteer groups to accomplish several tasks, including landscaping, trimming bushes, planting flowers, raking leaves, painting, and overall prepping the Zoo for upcoming events. Volunteers ages 12-16 years old must be accompanied by a parent/ legal guardian or a designated group chaperone. Volunteers under the age of 19 must obtain parent/ legal guardian permission to volunteer. To register, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo. com/.

Thursday, March 5

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Alabama Story -- Through March 22 Written by Kenneth Jones; directed by Rick Dildine. It’s 1959, and the Civil Rights Movement is starting to grip America. In Montgomery, a gentle children’s book stirs the passions of a segregationist senator and a no-nonsense librarian. A contrasting story of childhood friends — an African-American man and a woman of white privilege who are reunited in Montgomery that same year — provides private counterpoint to the public events of the play. Recommended ages 12+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net/ or call (334) 271-5353.

Friday, March 6

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Cinderella -Through March 22 7 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Performance tickets are $15-$30. For more info, call (334) 625-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com. **After the matinee performance on March 7, children are invited onstage to a “Party at the Palace” to meet Cinderella and other characters at an additional charge of $10 per child (costumes welcome).**

Saturday, March 7

Baptist Health 2020 Bun Run Colon Cancer Awareness Run. 7 a.m. - Registration, 8 a.m. - 5K, 8:30 a.m.- 1 Mile Fun Walk, 9:30 a.m.Kid’s Dash. Featuring WSFA’s Lead Morning Anchor, Tonya Terry as the event emcee. All proceeds go to the Baptist Health Foundation to cover treatment

costs of colon cancer patients. Visit https://mmstiming.com/2020-bun-run.

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Montgomery Zoo Weekend -- Also March 8 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Festive environment with live entertainment, games, rides, concessions and animals from around the world. Enjoy the many activities, fantastic food and have fun together at an affordable price. It is also an excellent opportunity to take advantage of discounted memberships. For more info, call (334) 6254900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

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Classes Adoptive Parent Training Classes Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections recruits, prepares, and supports parents adopting waiting children in Alabama’s foster care. For information on adoptive parent classes or to register for classes in Alabama, contact our team at (866) 803-2722 or visit apac@ childrensaid.org. Baby and Me Young children (ages 10 to 36 months) and their caregivers are invited to join us in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts studio for visual stimulation and connection to the art world. This new class focuses on colors, textures, and shapes and will help set a foundation for curiosity and art basics. Next classes are February 4 & March 10 from 10-10:30 a.m. and 10:30-11 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www. mmfa.org for more info. Baptist East Maternity Area Virtual Tour We invite you to visit our hospital from the comfort of wherever you are. A personal tour of Baptist Medical Center East’s Maternity Area is now just a click away. This virtual tour is designed to answer any questions you may have regarding our “familycentered maternity care.” Receive an inside look at our Labor and Delivery Suites, Newborn Nursery, Post-Partum and NICU units. From admission to discharge, this video provides all of the information you and your family needs to know. Visit www. baptistfirst.org/. Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@ jackson.org to register or for more info. Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10

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Childbirth Preparation (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South. This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 286-3466.

Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the TriCounty Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-4307569 or e-mail bolson@alabamachild.org.

Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For

Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is

required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org for more info.

Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook. com/LeaninCentralAL.

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SupportGroups Prepared Childbirth Class Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@ jackson.org. Preparing For A Natural Birth (One Time Class) Baptist Medical Center East. Please bring two bed pillows and a floor mat to class for breathing and relaxation exercise. This class equips expectant parents with natural childbirth options providing them with tools, techniques and coping skills for their labor and delivery experience. Pre-registration required. Class fee: $20 (couple or single) payable at class by cash or check. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org or call 273-4445.

Adoption Support

Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Kathy King at (205) 943-5331 or e-mail kking@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

River Region Adoptive Family Group (part of Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections) 6-7:30 p.m. 2nd Thursdays. Now meeting at Frazer United Methodist Church in the John Ed Mathison Activity Center. This is the building that faces Atlanta Highway. This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Dinner is provided and will be from 6-6:30. Parent, teen, children’s groups and childcare will start at 6:30 and go till 7:30. For more info, contact Jill Sexton at 409-9477 or jsexton@childrensaid.org.

Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley. com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.

Divorce Support

Grief Support

DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. For more info, call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@frazerumc.org. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc. org or 241-5125. Divorce Care in Millbrook 7 p.m. beginning February 5 and meeting every Wednesday for 13 weeks. Millbrook Church of the Nazarene, 3251 Browns Rd in Millbrook. Divorce Care is a support group to help individuals find hope and healing from the pains of divorce. The cost is a one-time fee of $20. For more info, contact Pastor Jacob Snyder at (615) 512-4517 or pastorjacob@ millbrooknazarene.com. The church phone number is (334) 285-7509 and the website is www.millbrooknazarene.org.

Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. GriefShare meets on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in the parlor of First United Methodist Church Prattville. Led by Michael Beatty. For more info, call the church office at (334) 365-5977. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202.

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River Region Parents I February 2020

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SupportGroups Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.

Homeschool Support

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

Parent Support

Century Church Strong Moms 9:30-11 a.m. Wednesdays. Different host homes in Pike Road’s The Waters community. The focus of this group is to build relationships between moms through Bible study, play dates, prayer and encouragement. Childcare provided for ages 2-5 years old and babies are welcome! For more info, visit https://centurychurch.churchcenter.com/groups/general-ministries/ strong-moms.

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. GirlTime at East Memorial Baptist Church 9:30-11:30 a.m. 2nd Tuesdays at various locations in Prattville. GirlTime is open to ladies of all ages. Visit eastmemorial.org or call the church office at (334) 365-7500 for info. Childcare is provided at the church. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-tomother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery. AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@ llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a Bible study community for moms of preschoolers. It is a Frazer United Methodist Churchsupported ministry to reach moms of the community through encouragment and prayer during these early years of raising our kids. Join us for weekly Bible studies focusing on parenting, marriage, women’s studies and more. Childcare provided for newbornK5. For more info, e-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org.

Moms in Prayer International is a Christ-centered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gather to pray for their children and schools. Meets every Sunday afternoon from 3-4 p.m. at St. James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road. Call Annette Jones at (850) 529-4730 or e-mail Montgomerymipac@gmail.com for more info on joining us or training to start your own group. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919.

FEBRUARY SERMON SERIES | SUNDAY MORNINGS 8, 9:30 &11AM OR WATCH LIVE 9:30 OR 11AM FRAZER.CHURCH/LIVE

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www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Single Parents Support

Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.

Mending kids’

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Our team of more than 250 pediatric professionals is recognized for its excellence in providing world-class cardiac care in an environment best suited to the needs of our patients. From tiny babies to teens, we care for Anna Robin Wignall and every child like our own. l

26 board-certified cardiologists, intensivists, anesthesiologists and surgeons

441 cardiac surgeries performed in 2019, including 8 heart transplants

More than 725 cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology procedures performed in 2019

Learn how you can help. Visit www.ChildrensAL.org/heart. For Children’s Financial Assistance information, call 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance

The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:3011:30 a.m., September through May. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc. org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

First Choice Women’s Medical Center conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet

River Region Parents I February 2020

for one weeknight over eight consecutive weeks and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. Confidientiality is assured. Please contact Kathy at (334) 260-8010 or kkay@firstchoicewmc. com for more details and information about upcoming groups. Post-Abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the One who came to set you free. Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) For more info, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.

Special Needs Support

Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. Visit www.alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. D.A.T.S. M.O.M. (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move), a non-profit parent empowerment organization for parents of children on the autism spectrum (or with related special needs challenges) that focuses on inspiring, equipping and motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@yahoo.com for more information. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome. com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com for more info. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_ montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org.

Teens/Families Support

Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 2704100 for information about current classes. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

Please send calendar info to editor@riverregionparents.com. www.riverregionparents.com

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saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.

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Frazer UMC Kindergarten, 52

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 47

Frazer Memorial UMC, 30, 79

Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 74

Adventure Sports II, 22

FUMC First School, 20

Montgomery Zoo, 49

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Alabama Christian Academy, 29

Gogue Performing Arts Center, 2

My Kids Attic, 21, 27

Alabama Dance Theatre, 37

Guardian Credit Union, 13

New Park, 57

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AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front

Guild Mortgage, 39

Newtopia, 55

Ala School of Math & Science, 9

Healthy Kids Expo, 63

OB/GYN Associates, 59

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 72

Hooper Academy, 28

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 65

ASKIN/Synergy House, 44

Huntingdon Learning Center, 14

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 60

Autauga County Library, 44

Inflatables of Montgomery, 18

Pike Road Dental, 37

Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 21

Jackson Hospital, 15

Prattville YMCA, 41

Bandaloop Yoga & Wellness, 64

Jeff Dickey, New Waters Realty, 34

RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back

Baptist Health, 7, 35

Judy Barranco Photography, 65

Resurrection Catholic School, 31

Bush Pediatric Dentistry, 71

Just for Grins - Orthodontist, 44

Riverview Camp for Girls, 69

Chapman Orthodontics, 28

KLynn Ice Skating School, 8

Saint James School, 1

Children’s Clothing Exchange, 19

Kingry Orthodontics, 66

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 4

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 82

Kreative Moments, 75

Spotless Cleaning Services, 73

Churchill Academy, 19

Lakeview Baptist Church, 75

Success Unlimited Academy, 3, 45

Cornerstone Classical Academy, 38

Larry Chapman, ALFA Insurance, 77

Sylvan Learning Center, 41

Dentistry for Children, 64

Learning Tree Child Care, 80

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 34

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 20

Lil’ Priss Parties, 79

The Herb Shop, 51

EdTech Academy, 64

Macon East Academy, 26

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 79

Mathnasium, 53

Trinity Presbyterian School, 33

Evangel Christian Academy, 43

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 60

Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 79

Eye Center South, 76

Montessori @ Hampstead, 22

United Gymstars & Cheer, 11

Family Guidance Center, 69

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 46

First Baptist of Prattville, 46

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 23, 25

Vaughn Road Preschool, 32

First Presb. Kindergarten, P’ville, 43

Montgomery Gray Softball, 18

We Care Therapy Services, 62

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children at the same time. I met Jabar my first day there. His smile just melted me...he is such a happy boy. RRP: You became skilled at a young age to take care of special needs children. How have you been able to use those skills in your life? Rochelle: I did a lot of babysitting as a young teen and several of the children I kept had special needs. Spending time with these children and interacting with them, I saw how bright they were, while noticing how unique their learning styles were. I realized how important it was for these children to have specific modifications based on their needs so they could shine and express their knowledge as others are able to do. It is so important for these children to feel successful, and by providing them with resources, they can. Self-esteem is crucial, and I will do whatever I can for my child and other children to be proud of who they are and what they can do.

Rochelle Kohn RRP: Rochelle, how would you describe your parenting style?

RRP: What things have you found to enjoy about having a child with special needs? Rochelle: Everything! Morgan has blessed our entire family in so many ways. He loves so deeply...he puts a smile on someone’s face wherever he goes.

Rochelle: I would say my parenting style is authoritative. We set standards and goals that challenge our children while encouraging them so that they grow into confident young adults. We are a very close family and spend a lot of time together. I always try and encourage constant open communication.

RRP: Recently, you and your husband have become guardians to baby Jabar. How has his arrival into your home impacted your household? Rochelle: God is so good! It has been a wonderful experience. Watching each one of my children bond with him has been so special to watch. I want my children to understand that by giving and helping others, they are giving themselves the world. They are getting to experience this first hand, and I know it will impact who they become as adults.

RRP: You mentioned that you began babysitting when you were just 10 years old. Do you think those experiences increased your desire to become a mother?

RRP: Tell us one thing you admire about each of your children.

Rochelle: Absolutely! I began babysitting at a young age. During summers, I would work as a camp counselor. Working with children has always been something I enjoy. I graduated from Auburn University with a major in Elementary Education. I taught school for several years and moved into teaching preschool during my kids preschool years. I began teaching fitness to others as an instructor, as well as a trainer when I was 17 years old. Later I used that experience by training children in fitness, agility and endurance drills, and just to overall help improve children’s self-esteem. Over a year ago, I began volunteering at the Adullam House where I get to love on the precious children, as well as use my teaching experience to help them with developmental skills. Having my own children has motivated me to continue working with other children, and has been my biggest blessing.

Rochelle: Sydney has a giving and serving heart. Britton is soft on the inside with such a big heart, yet tough and silly on the outside. Morgan’s love and knowledge of the weather and his uplifting support he gives others. Jabar loves to snuggle and is always laughing and smiling! RRP: What is something you hope your children are learning from watching you? Rochelle: I want my kids to share and serve God’s love. Teaching my kids that this is why we are here is the biggest gift I could ever give them. RRP: What advice would you share with new parents?

RRP: Tell us about your involvement with Adullum House.

Rochelle: Cherish each and every moment with your children because it goes by with the blink of an eye.

Rochelle: I started as a volunteer, and still my work is volunteer, but I noticed that the toddlers could use some help with developmental skills and I’m experienced in that area. I also wanted to help them with structure to prepare them for school. I now have a classroom set up so I can work on these skills while loving on these precious

River Region Parents I February 2020

Rochelle Kohn is a group exercise coach, personal trainer, preschool teacher and home manager. She has been married to Robert for 21 years. Rochelle loves running, going on walks with Morgan and Sydney, and spending time with her family and friends.

www.riverregionparents.com

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