River Region Parents March 2020 by KeepSharing

I would rather be able to run the bases after my home run hit than have to stop to catch my breath by 2nd. - Josie, 7th grade

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EDUCATION is more than YO U K N OW

Experiences in the classroom, moments in the spotlight, and lessons on the field work together at Saint James to educate the whole child, develop young men and women of character, and prepare students for life.

Pre-K3â&#x2C6;&#x2019;12th Grade

Saint James School

334-273-3021 or STJweb.org

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR LIFE Call today to learn more about merit scholarships and affording a Saint James education for your child. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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N E W PA R K

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River Region Parents I March 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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AT TRINITY, WE... Discover the brilliance within each child. Surround him/her with a strong family atmosphere. Show him/her how to excel in more than one area. Encourage students to strive for excellence. Emphasize Christ-like character above all else. Build leaders who possess mental, physical, and spiritual strength.

One World. One School. One Family. 3

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March2020

Volume 25 Number 3

66 Columns

8 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

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

Sleepaway Camp

Six tips to give your child a successful experience.

Day Camp

Why “the camp next door” may be your child’s best option.

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

46 Autauga Education Matters

by Superintendent Spence Agee

54 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis

60 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

2020 Summer Camps Day, residential, sports camps and more! Our listing starts you planning your kids’ summer!

Don’t Panic About Anxiety

Teach teens to navigate nerves when anxiousness strikes.

64 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

86 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Brookelyn Marzett and Kylin Briggins are 5th graders at Garrett Elementary. They are pictured at The Montgomery Zoo. Brookelyn loves dance, gymnastics, drawing and being around family and friends. She is becoming a member of Girls Rock, has been A/ AB Honor Roll K-5th, won 1st Place Track and Field-400m, 1st Place Track and Field-800m, 2nd Place Track and Field-Turbo Javelin and 1st Place Overall All-Star in Track and Field. Her parents are Brandolyn and La’Jana Marzett. Kylin has won a 200 long run medal and shot put medal. She enjoys singing, dancing, and designing. Her parents are Keisha Briggins and Kelvin Simpson.

Departments 12 Teacher of the Month 16 School Bits 92 Calendar/Support Groups 100 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote Our always anticipated Summer Camp Issue is here! With the end of the school year in sight, we parents need to start planning what our children will do this summer to keep them entertained, learning and off the couch with a screen in their hands all day. You won’t need to look any further than our 2020 Summer Camp Guide. Here you’ll find details on registration, cost, included activities and more for all sorts of camps. Your child may be ready to try a sleepaway camp or maybe you want to stick to day camps for another year or two. You’ll find plenty of options in both of these categories to choose from. We’ve also included camps focusing on art, sports, horseback riding, martial arts, robotics, dance/gymnastics and so much more. You are sure to find something that fits the interests of each child in your family. If the decision to try an overnight camp is on the table this year, be sure to read Christa Hines’ article, Six Tips for a Successful Sleepaway Camp Experience. Being prepared can make this new venture run much more smoothly for your child... and for Mom and Dad. In The Camp Next Door, Sarah Lyons discusses the many benefits of day camps like increased independence, making new friends and learning lifelong skills. Day camps come in all shapes and sizes (and costs), so check the Guide and find the right fit for your family. Our daughter Grace is going to an overnight camp for a week this summer and we will also put her in one or two sports camps to hone her skills in her favorite sports. I don’t know about your kids, but Grace is much more pleasant and content when she is engaged in physical activity. She longs to be moving and learning...it just takes a little effort on our part as parents to make it happen. I hope this month’s issue will help you in that effort by taking some of the leg work out of planning your child’s summer. A couple of other great articles you won’t want to miss this month are 5 Risky Apps to Watch Out For in our Common Sense Media column. And addressing a subject on so many parents’ minds, Christina Katz shares Don’t Panic About Anxiety. She offers advice for teaching your teen (or tween) to navigate nerves when anxiousness strikes. Finally, please join us at our 2020 Healthy Kids Expo at Frazer Church’s Wesley Hall on March 28, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. It’s going to be a fun-filled and educational afternoon for the entire family! I’ll be right up front at the sign in table and look forward to meeting you!

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

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

Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Richard Dennis Christa Melnyk Hines Christina Katz Dr. Charles Ledbetter Sarah Lyons Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dr. Ann Roy Moore 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 ads@riverregionparents.com

DeAnne

Ad Design Tim Welch

Member

editor@riverregionparents.com 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.

River Region Parents I March 2020

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Tuesdays with Mommy At the top of the New York Times best seller list back in 2000 was a book called, Tuesdays With Morrie – an old man, a young man and life’s greatest lesson. The entire concept of the book was wrapped around author Mitch Albom’s relationship with his university professor Morrie Schwartz, who was in the final stages of dying from ALS. Morrie and Mitch discussed the power of friendship, forgiveness, loss, life, death and family, amongst some smaller, more trivial daily trials and triumphs. As my 17-year-old twins are preparing to launch into the world and head off to college in the fall, I took a cue from Morrie and at the start of their senior year I initiated, “Tuesdays with Mommy”. Every Tuesday you will find the three of us sharing a table at our neighborhood coffee shop at 7:30 in the morning. I drink coffee, they drink “coffee” – which as far as I can tell appears to be just blended sugar topped with whipped cream – and we argue over who gets the last portion of the lemon poppy seed muffin.

River Region Parents I March 2020

The café door opens and closes, neighbors come and go, and we make small talk with our favorite barista, but it is exactly there in those quiet, normal moments that we oftentimes find ourselves discussing issues or politics or strategies or what’s for dinner or whatever else is pressing. And that matters. There is value there. There is strength of relationship and resolve there. And I love it. My favorite day of the week: Tuesday. As a mom of many with a job that keeps me jumping, Tuesdays with Mommy forces me to pause. It makes me sit down, sip, lean in and hear their hearts. And yes, 17-year-old boys often actually do have a lot to say; it’s just that we need to be intentional in posturing ourselves in a position to listen, and sometimes, like Morrie – to teach. At times it occurs to me that I need to ensure that I have taught them how to write a check, or to remind them to get their tires rotated every other oil change, or the importance of standing up at the

table on a date when she stands up. Other times the table talk centers around childhood memories; sometimes their memories and sometimes mine. Every now and then Tuesdays with Mommy is consumed with them scrambling to finish some homework while I just sit by and remind myself how grateful I am to already be done with the 12th grade. Sometimes we miss a day and sometimes it is just silent. I don’t think there is a “right” way to have your Tuesday. But whether you find your Tuesday at a coffee shop, or you find it on Pizza Fridays or Saturday Morning Waffles, my encouragement to you is to just find it. Find a time where you can be still and hear the heart of your kid. You will find that it makes all the difference.

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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Easter Eggstravaganza Alabama Nature Center

Arts for Autism

March 28 * Activities include three different age group egg hunts (ages 1-12), Easter games, egg race, bunny pictures, and more! Hot dogs will be for sale from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the pavilion outpost. General admis-sion applies and includes this awesome program. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

April 2 * 2–4:30 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Friends and family are invited to gather in support of those among us on the spectrum. April is National Autism Awareness Month, and we will kick it off with a series of fun activities throughout the Museum to help raise awareness and increase communications. Activities will include makeand-take art projects, Ask-Me docents in the galleries, and dancing in front of the Tannenbaum screen. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 625-4333.

Capitol Sounds & Montgomery Recreators Present Swing into Spring Concert

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 March 2020

16th Annual Autism Crawfish Boil

Benefitting Easter Seals Central Alabama Saturday, April 4 * 12-4 p.m. At the Montgomery Biscuits Stadium 4,000 POUNDS of all-you-can-eat crawfish and sides, cold beverages, live music featuring NBC’s The Voice finalist Kirk Jay and Kountry Funk, along with other wonderful local bands and more. Raffle prizes, crawfish souvenirs and fun will all be waiting for YOU! Grab your friends and come support the autism services provided at Easter Seals Central Alabama through the 16th Annual Autism Crawfish Boil. Your belly and your heart will be full! General admission tickets are $35; kids (ages 3-10) are $10 (includes kids’ meal) VIP tickets are $75 and include club car bar seating, table service, swag bag, event shirt and drink ticket. For more info, find us on Eventbrite.com. 10

The Capitol Sounds Concert Band and Montgomery Recreators will present Swing into Spring 2020 on Thursday, March 12, at 7 p.m., at Saint James United Methodist Church, 9045 Vaughn Rd. The Capitol Sounds Concert Band, organized in 1972, will feature the “Overture to Colas Breugnon” by Dmitri Kabalevsky; “Symphony No. 3” (for band) by Vittorio Giannini, “The Chimes of Liberty March” by Edwin Franko Goldman, and “Tuba Tiger Rag” based on the Canadian Brass version. The Montgomery Recreators Jazz Band, organized in 1974, will will also perform a set of classic big band and swing favorites, which will be sure to have a little something for everyone! The event is free and open to the public, but donations are always welcome. For more info, visit www. montgomeryrecreators.com or www. capitolsounds.org.

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2020 Southeastern Livestock Expo Rodeo

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Montgomery Half-Marathon

March 14 * 7 a.m. Half-Marathon Start; 7:15 a.m. 5K Start. Downtown Montgomery. Prices: 5K is $30 per participant; HalfMarathon is $45 per participant. 5K Awards are 9-9:30 a.m. Half-Marathon Awards are 11-11:30 a.m. For more info, visit https://mmstiming.com/races/halfmarathon/half-info/.

March 19-21 Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery. The rodeo coming to town means more than just buckin’ broncos, barrel racing and burly bulls. It means family fun for all ages! Enjoy a stick horse rodeo before every rodeo performance. The Western Festival on Saturday will feature games and activities like dummy roping, mutton busting and wagon rides to teach you all about the life of the cowboy. For more info, visit https://slerodeo.com/.

Pike Road Art Market

Children’s Free Theatre Workshop

March 14 * 9 a.m.-noon. Prattville Cultural Arts Center, 203 West 4th St, Prattville. Way Off Broadway Theatre will present thisn workshop for 1st-5th grades. Though the workshop is free, space is limited and reservations are required. Call (334) 595-0850.

The Art of Baking Puppet Show

April 7-8 * 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Children (aged 3 to 6) and their families are invited to join us as we introduce this fun visual and performance event. The characters show children how it takes everyone working together to turn the bakery’s yummy treats into art using color, shape, and line. Contact Tour Coordinator Jill Byrd at (334) 625.4359 or visit https:// mmfa.org/ to arrange plans.

March 7 * 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Pike Road Town Hall. Browse and buy handmade gifts, art, and more from Alabama artisans. The British Motoring Club of Montgomery will be showcasing their cars and the Montgomery County Humane Society will have adoptable pets onsite! Visit www.pikeroad.us.

Prattville Artists Market

March 21 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Prattville Creative Arts Center. Shop original works of art by local and regional artist members of the art guild. Works include paintings and drawings, photography, clay, recycle art and more! Free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0850.

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Sarah Berg Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School

The winner of this month’s Teacher of the Month, Sarah Berg, has been described as fun, helpful, caring and kind. She got her education at the University of Kentucky and has been teaching for 17 years. “I wanted to make a difference in the lives of teenagers. That, coupled with a passion for literature, is why I chose High School English Education,” says Berg. Berg makes a point to get to know her students. She says, “I try to get to know each as a person, not just a student. I attend their sporting events, plays, etc. When a student knows I care about them, they naturally try harder in my class.” Sarah’s husband is currently deployed and she has three children who are very active in school and extracurricular activities. How does she manage? “Being a solo working mom of three busy kids is certainly challenging. I am very organized and take advantage of every free minute. I also lean on my wonderful friends for help when needed.” “Mrs. Berg is an amazing teacher. She is understanding to teenagers in a day and time

River Region Parents I March 2020

when teenagers need a lot of support,” says a former student’s parent. Berg recognizes the need to support teens because she says the biggest challenge they face today is “learning virtuous behavior in the face of all the irresponsible behavior shown, and even promoted, by the media – television, social media, radio, the Internet, etc.” She continues, “I pray every day that I can inspire my students to become persons of faith, virtue, and wisdom.” What advice would she give to a new teacher? “Teaching is way beyond a 9 to 5 job: teachers frequently stay up late planning, prepping, and grading. It is easy to become burned out. My advice to new teachers is to find a balance and be sure to add downtime to their schedules. A pajama day once a month will make you a better teacher!” Sarah Berg teaches 9th grade English at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. She and husband Chris have been married 23 years and have three children: Allison (17), Nathan (14), and Samantha (11). Mrs. Berg enjoys reading, baking and spending time with family and friends.

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Some Notes on Magnet Schools One of the things we get the most questions about at MPS is our magnet program. We are grateful for the interest in our magnet schools, which are regularly ranked among the best schools in the state, and in some cases the country. We are continually trying to streamline the process and improve the overall experience for those who apply for magnet programs, and this year we have made a couple of changes. First, the basics. Magnet schools are public schools and therefore do not cost anything to attend. They are open to all students in the school district regardless of zip code. They offer special curricula, including in the arts, STEM education and a plethora of advanced subjects.

River Region Parents I March 2020

Students who apply and meet the criteria specified for each magnet school are entered into a lottery. Eligible students are chosen at random by computer. Applications were accepted during the month of January, and the first lottery draw is expected in April. One new wrinkle we have added this year is providing transportation to magnet students using the hub concept. These transportation hubs will be determined by school zones. For more information, visit EngageEducateInspire.org or call Transportation at 334-284-2805. We have also changed the way we handle applications for current magnet students seeking slots outside their feeder patterns. â&#x20AC;˘ If your child is awarded a seat at the school where they applied, you have 14 days to accept or decline the offer. If you accept, you forfeit the seat at your feeder school. â&#x20AC;˘ If your child is waitlisted at the school where they applied, you will have 14 days to decide if you would like to

keep your guaranteed seat at your feeder school or stay on the waitlist for the school or schools for which you applied. If you decide during that time that you would like to keep the guaranteed seat at the feeder school, your child will be removed from the waitlist. If you choose to remain on the waitlist, you forfeit the guaranteed spot at the feeder school. We will notify parents of acceptance in magnet schools most likely in late April. The notifications will be sent to the email address entered on the application, and physical letters will be sent out as well. If you still have questions about magnets, feel free to email magnet@mps. k12.al.us, call 334-223-6840, or visit our website to find out more. 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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APRIL 18 WE’VE HELPED OVER 95,000 GET SCREENED ONE STEP AT A TIME. REGISTER NOW AND HELP US KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING! The Walk of Life creates awareness for breast cancer, celebrates survivors, and raises money for those who cannot afford mammograms and breast cancer screenings. Bring the family April 18 and run, walk, donate or volunteer with us at 8:30am in Downtown Montgomery!

5K RUN/WALK & KIDS ZONE & PARTY Register at JOYTOLIFE.ORG

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Montgomery County Schools

Catholic Senior is National Merit Finalist

Montgomery Academy Lower School Artists Selected for Art Museum Exhibit

Seven Montgomery Academy Lower School artists had works selected for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts exhibition, “You Count: Student Response to the 2020 Census.” Shown are Lower School art teacher Ms. Tullos, Oliver Steen, Elle Ingram, Morgan Springer, Pearlin Sharma and Alex Reichert. Not shown are Tara Samant and Annie Yi.

BTW Students Honored at Southeastern High School Artist Competition

Several Booker T. Washington Visual Art and Photography students were recognized at the 2020 Biennial Southeastern High School Artist Competition awards ceremony and reception sponsored by Birmingham Southern College. Their artwork was selected from more than 400 entries from across the Southeast. They are Annie Xia (Recognition Award), Emily Beaudry (Honorable Mention), Jaylin Jones, Jamir Robinson, Mia Johnston, Hannah Johnson and Yaelyn Ha. River Region Parents I March 2020

Officials of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation have named Montgomery Catholic student Sofia Izer as a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. She will compete with other finalists for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $31 million. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, students must fulfill several requirements and advance to the finalist level of the competition. The preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test serves as an initial screening of program entrants. In addition to the PSAT test scores, the student’s academic record, community involvement, leadership ability, and personal essay are considered when determining semifinalists. About 90 percent of the semifinalists, who were announced in September 2019, attained finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the title of Merit Scholar. Izer is currently a senior at Montgomery Catholic. Not only is she a top scholar, but she is also very active in a variety of school activities. She is a member of the Key Club, National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. She is also a varsity cheerleader and holds a black belt in Taekwondo. She is active in her parish, Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Montgomery, and volunteers her time during Vacation BibleSchool. Izer is an aspiring architect who enjoys the merging of her favorite things: art, math and design. Senior Clare Wilson was recognized in September 2019 for being a National Merit Commended Scholar. While she will not have an opportunity to participate in the National Merit Scholarship competition, she ranks in the top 3% of all high school students nationwide who took the PSAT/NMSQT. www.riverregionparents.com

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100 School Days at Resurrection Catholic

Resurrection Catholic School students celebrated 100 days of school by dressing as senior citizens. These first-grade students showed off style while having fun.

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ACA LifeSouth Kids Marathon

The 4th-grade students at Alabama Christian Academy began their LifeSouth Kids Marathon. They will run one mile a day for 25 days. On March 7, the students will complete the Marathon by running the last 1.2 miles with partnering schools in the Montgomery area.

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Churchill Holds Annual Talent Show

Churchill Academy students participated in the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual talent show during February. Lower School students were featured on the opening day of the talent show, with Middle School and High School students showcased on the final day of performances. Singers, pianists, bands and drummers were some of the musical features on each day. Spoken word, acting and specialty performances were highlighted as well. The High School ballroom dance class entertained attendees based on training received from Churchillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own instructor, Judy Hall. Supporters filled the room on both days to enjoy the shows. Many thanks to High School volunteers who served in roles ranging from emcee, set up, props and photography. Talent Show 2020 was a team effort.

Eastwood Students Celebrate 100 Days of School

Eastwood Christian School students had an opportunity to celebrate the 100th day of school by counting, grouping, sorting, building, predicting and snacking! A few of the fun activities students enjoyed included making towers of 100 cups, graphing colored Skittles, counting hundreds of Cheerios, and making artwork to predict how they would look in 100 years. The students were very happy to spend hundreds of minutes enjoying the 100th day of school.

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Montgomery County Schools

Baldwin Strings Students Perform At State AMEA Conference

Advanced strings students from Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet were invited to perform at the Alabama Music Educators Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state conference at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel. These students represented MPS and string students from across the state. They were also able to have a one-on-one, meet and greet session with nationally renowned composer Richard Meyer.

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ACA Angler of the Year

Alabama Christian Academy Bass Fishing Team member and junior Harrison Wingard placed in the top three out of five ACA fishing tournaments during the 2019 fall season: Lake Martin, Lake Jordan, Alabama River and Lake Mitchell. Due to his consistency throughout the season, Wingard was named Angler of the Year.

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Catholic Students Celebrate Australia

The students at the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Holy Spirit Campus took a staycation Down Under for their annual Cultural Day, learning all about the country of Australia. Parent volunteers served as tour guides for the students who led them to different classrooms outfitted with various lessons on the geography, history, art, music and daily life of Australians. They made crafts, enjoyed “fairy bread” (buttered bread with sprinkles), and a few “lucky” students even got to try a polarizing Australian favorite, Vegemite sandwiches. The students learned about the plight of the animals suffering as a result of the recent Australian bushfires, so they collected donations of “Dollas for Koalas” to help with conservation efforts. To cap off the day, the students had a presentation from guest speaker Kathleen Weber, a Holy Spirit parent and native Australian. It was a fun day of hands-on learning about a culture that is half a world away yet so close to our own.

BTW Student Wins Photography Award

Booker T. Washington Magnet High student Baylie Tullo received an Award of Merit in the Double Exposure Photography Competition sponsored by the Tuscaloosa Arts Council. She received a $125 cash prize and was recognized at an awards ceremony at the Bama Theatre. 21

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BrewTech Earns National STEM Certification through Cognia

Brewbaker Technology Magnet High is the first school in the River Region to earn national STEM certification under accreditation agency Cognia’s new standards. BrewTech earned certification in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics under Cognia’s new 16-standard evaluation rubric. An official STEM review team spent two days interviewing BrewTech teachers, students, and stakeholders to evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of BrewTech’s STEM mission and vision. Cognia, formerly AdvancEd, provides schools with accreditation, certification, assessment, professional learning and consulting.

Resurrection Catholic Holds Poster Contest

Resurrection Catholic School (K-6) participated in a “Proper Handwashing” Poster Contest in their health classes. Coach Aubrey Barnes presented a rubric and students researched information and presented it for judging. These students’ posters were selected with honorable mention of great work to ensure proper handwashing safety.

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Two Academy Students Named Natâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Merit Finalists

Montgomery Academy seniors Femi Adediji and Kelly Yoon have been named Finalists in the 65th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented students have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $31 million that will be offered this spring. More than 1.6 million juniors in about 22,000 high schools entered the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2018 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highestscoring entrants in each state.

BTW Students Place in Scholastics Competition

Several Booker T. Washington Magnet High photography and visual arts students placed in the 2020 Scholastics Art & Writing Southeastern Art Region-at-Large Competition. BTW received seven Gold Keys, 12 Silver Keys, and eight Honorable Mentions. Students who received a Gold Key in the regional division will move on to the National Competition. Aubrey Askew, Ryan Grant, Yaelyn Ha, Jazmyne Isaac and J. Amir Robinson each won one Gold Key, and Annie Xia won two.

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Montgomery Catholic’s National Honor Society Chapter Welcomes New Members On February 19, the Loretto Chapter of the National Honor Society inducted 32 new members into its ranks. NHS President Clare Wilson, treasurer Chris Valencia and secretary Ashley Hayes welcomed the inductees and acknowledged the high level of achievement in academics, leadership, character and service required for them to join NHS. In addition to the induction of members new to NHS, the Loretto Chapter welcomed four transfers from other chapters: Allison Berg, Mason Branam, Mary Carley and Madison Kille. Loretto Chapter advisor Jeanene Crenshaw, MCPS President Anne Ceasar and High School Principal Justin Castanza also presented each senior with the graduation stole that will be worn on commencement day. The National Honor Society (NHS), established in 1921, is a national recognition program for students who show achievement in scholarship, leadership, service and character. High School students are selected for membership through an application process and are selected by the faculty council. Candidates must meet the chapter’s requirement for scholarship, service, leadership and character in order to be selected for membership. Continued participation in service projects and upholding

the ideals of the school are required to retain membership. Members must also maintain the chapter’s required cumulative grade-point average, 3.75. The inductees to the Loretto Chapter of National Honor Society are: Gracie Barranco, Jasmine Blakeney, Maria Cervantes, Aidan Cochran, Carlo De Jesus, Devan DeRamus, Mitchell Dogan, Mai Ellington, Daniel Gacha, Emma Garrison, Angela Gier, Ines Gonzalez-Ansaldi, Alex Hines, Cecilia Hoffpauir, Myles Jordan, Jayla Milam, Camille Morgan, Molly Nicklay, John Niemi, Ellie Pool, Rachel Rodriguez, James Saliba, Piper Schneider, Harrison Skala, Chad Waite, Valerie Waite, Ja’Michael

Washington, Alexis Weber and Chloe Weber. Graduating seniors from the Loretto Chapter of National Honor Society are: Lorissa Algarin, Sarah Rose Burden, Jack Burt, Tanner Carter, Olivia Cheriyan, Bobby Crawford, Ansley Dean, Nathan Downes, Lainie Doyle, Jason Flowers, Victoria Hall, Ashley Hayes, Michael Hodges, Sofia Izer, Savannah Johnson, Jayla Milam, Denalie Mosakowski, Robert Scott Nation, Katherine O’Connor, Charles O’Donnell, Katherine Perkins, Anna Sadie, Landry Samuels, Elizabeth Speirs, Kinley Tadlock, Chris Valencia, Chad Waite, Clare Wilson, Ja’Michael Washington, Alexis Weber and Chloe Weber.

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Baldwin Students Surprise Teacher

Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet Middle School students surprised longtime guitar teacher Douglas Back with a “Happy Retirement” cookie while on a field trip to the Troy University Guitar Festival. Back teaches fretted instruments at Baldwin and plans to retire at the end of the year. While in Troy, his students scrambled around and chipped in money to order the cookie. They surprised him with it and surrounded him as they sang “Happy Retirement to You.” Back has an outstanding program and the performances and students are his testament. He will be missed by his students, coworkers and parents. Good luck and enjoy your retirement, Mr. Back! River Region Parents I March 2020

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Churchill Participates In School Choice Week

Churchill Academy participated in National School Choice Week in January. Students had an opportunity to discuss why they love their school and to take pictures with their classes celebrating the week’s focus. Parents also weighed in on a few of their favorite things about Churchill Academy. Churchill celebrates school choice in Alabama and welcomes families who are participating in school choice options. www.riverregionparents.com

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STJ Earns High Honors at Junior Youth Legislature

Saint James School was represented by middle school students in seventh and eighth grades who participated in the Annual YMCA Junior Youth Legislature January 24. Several Saint James students served in leadership roles and were awarded for their extraordinary work during the 2020 Junior Youth Legislature. STJ eighth-grade student Saddlar Berrey served as House Pro Temp as well as eighth-grade student Emmett Rasmussen who served as House Floor Leader. Eighth-graders Brooks Bacheler, Will Gulsby and Abigail Kang were named Outstanding Delegates, and again this year, a Saint James student was awarded one of the program’s highest honors, Most Outstanding Delegate for the House. This distinguished title was awarded to Saddlar Berrey. “Each year, I watch with such pride as our students find their voices in this program,” said Diane Gilliland, Saint James Middle School world geography teacher and Junior Youth in Government sponsor. “Our students are mentored and encouraged by upper classmen,” she continued. “And I know that inspiration will lead these middle school students down a meaningful path in high school Youth in Government and beyond.” The Alabama YMCA Junior Youth Legislature program is designed specifically for middle school students who show an interest in the government process. The program focuses on preparing students for moral and political leadership in the American democratic process through guidance, training, and experience in the theory and practice of determining public policy. Junior Youth Leg also provides an opportunity for students to gain a greater understanding of meeting challenges; it helps them accept defeat without discouragement, and it stimulates tolerance towards another person’s point of view. During the program, students from across the state engage in writing and debating bills. They have workshops on parliamentary procedure and how to effectively write a bill. Their mock sessions serve as a model legislative program. Shown, Diane Gilliland of Saint James School poses with STJ middle school students who participated in the YMCA Alabama Junior Youth Legislature in late January.

On February 3, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy and its ministry partner, Morningview Baptist Church, hosted a breakfast for River Region Pastors. Fifteen pastors representing a variety of denominations and local communities, including Wetumpka and Eclectic, joined Cornerstone Classical Headmaster John Bradley and Morningview Baptist Senior Pastor Dr. Shawn Merithew for the school’s chapel service and then enjoyed breakfast together. At the beginning of each week, the entire Cornerstone Classical student body, grades K4-12, gathers together for morning chapel. The students sing and hear from various speakers. On the morning of the pastors’ breakfast, Rev. Wes Gunn from Redland Hills Church spoke. During breakfast, Bradley shared with those in attendance about the school’s desire to partner with parents who are interested in pursuing a classical Christian education. Merithew spoke about Morningview’s desire to support a ministry that provides an affordable, Christian education to parents in the River Region. Although a separate entity from Morningview Baptist Church, the church generously provides Cornerstone Classical its facilities and other support, and has representation on the Cornerstone board of directors.

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Resurrection Visits Let’s Pretend Hospital

Willie Jackson’s first-grade class at Resurrection Catholic School attended an educational field trip to the “Let’s Pretend Hospital” medical simulation at Baptist South Hospital in Montgomery. The students enjoyed role playing as their classmates looked on and learned all about patient safety.

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ACA Forensic Science Class Visits Crime Lab

The Alabama Christian Academy Forensic Science class visited the Alabama State University crime laboratory. The students learned the importance of forensic biologists and chemists and how an investigator would dust for fingerprints. The students were also chosen to participate and demonstrate what a trial would look like.

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Trinity School Show Choir Performs at Disneyland

Trinity Presbyterian School’s Arts Department recently took twenty-five 10th-12th grade Show Choir and Dance Ensemble students on a whirlwind tour of southern California! During the five-day trip, they had the privilege of taking multiple classes with both Disney Performing Arts and Millennium Dance Complex, all from well-known instructors such as famous YouTuber and choreographer Matt Steffanina and vocal contractor/singer Vangie Gunn. An added benefit of the trip was performing live on stage at Disneyland on Valentine’s Day! This motivated and hard-working group of performers also found the time to tour Hollywood, shop in Beverly Hills, play in the sand at Seal Beach and spend a day exploring Disneyland! This is the second time that Dance and Show Choir have collaborated on this incredible experience for their students. In addition to California, they have traveled to New York, Miami, and Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

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foundational skills taught at the elementary level

Eastwood Reels into the Colonial Era

As a part of their study of Colonial America, Eastwood Christian School fifth-grade and second-grade students engaged in many colonial period activities. The second-graders were invited to join the fifth-graders to participate in a fun-filled morning of hands-on learning. Dressed in colonial period costumes, the students practiced writing with quill and ink, stenciling, and making butter. There were many colonial games to learn and play. One favorite activity was when the fifth-graders cranked up a toe-tapping ditty and performed the Virginia Reel for their younger schoolmates.

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Catholic Robotics Teams Headed to State

For the fourth year in a row, the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School RoboKnights are heading to the VEX Robotics State Competition. Two high school teams, “Happy Little Accidents” and “Insert Team Name Here,” and two middle school teams, “Last Resort” and “The Sevies,” will compete at the state level at the end of February. “We’ve been working on our Tower Takeover build since the challenge was announced at Worlds last year,” said Happy Little Accidents team member Arthur Murray, whose 2018-2019 team qualified for the VEX Robotics World Competition in 2019. In this season alone, Happy Little Accidents has been crowned Tournament Champion five times and has won two Robot Skills awards and one Excellence award. In the VEX Robotics challenge this year, two alliances of two robots face each other on the playing field. The teams are tasked with using their robots to stack cubes of various colors in goal zones at the corners of the playing field. Robots can also place cubes into cups that are elevated above the playing field and increase the number of points scored by the stacks of cubes. Like in previous challenges, robots can score additional points by demonstrating autonomous programs in the first 15 seconds of each round. The remaining minute and 45 seconds are driver-controlled and allow the teams to demonstrate not only their designs but also their skills at operating their robots. Happy Little Accidents is comprised of Murray, junior and VEX Worlds alumni Aidan Cochran, and 8th-grader Hunter Dailey. Insert Team Name Here includes sophomores Chris Lathram (a VEX Worlds alumni), Andres Lemuz and Jake Talbot. Last Resort is comprised of 7thgraders Zack Azar, David Huston, Merritt Payne, Will Sasser and Jackson Wright. The Sevies includes 7th-graders Ben Chitlik, Antonio Lemuz, Jaden Sigler and Harrison Vaughn.

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Halcyon Elementary Wins MyON Book Boost Spotlight Award

Halcyon Elementary received the first MyON Book Boost Spotlight School Award, and a group of third-graders were there to accept it. Promise Harris, Paisley Smith, Myles Hutchins and Kiyen Poole joined Principal Shannon Schmidt and Library Media Specialist Melinda Makowsky in receiving the award for the school. This award was given for having 98% of their school complete the Placement Test and Interest Inventory in myON.

$40.4M in Scholarships over the past 5 years

Numerous Ministries

supported worldwide, from the River Region to Guatemala and Uganda

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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

Eastwood Sixth-Graders Hold Valentine’s Bake Sale

1 World Robotics Competition Team,

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

The sixth-grade girls at Eastwood Christian School followed in the footsteps of last years’ sixth-grade class by having a Valentine’s Bake Sale. The girls and their mothers labored joyfully baking homemade decorated goodies. The school families and faculty were enthusiastically supportive. The bake sale raised more than $500 for Zana Christian School in Uganda. Eastwood is continuing its ten-year partnership with students at Zana by assisting with tuition costs and other educational expenses. Eastwood students can watch their sponsored students grow in stature and their faith in Christ. These sponsored students are now serving as ambassadors for Christ in their community. In addition to the annual bake sale, Eastwood students raise money to support their Ugandan classmates by doing odd jobs such as cutting grass, selling lemonade, and also by paying a dollar each Friday for the option of wearing Warrior Wear.

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Montgomery County Schools

ECA Kindergarten Classes Celebrate Winnie the Pooh

Dalraida Student Places In MHS Essay Contest Raven Blackburn from Dalraida Elementary School’s QUEST class was the thirdplace winner in the Montgomery Humane Society’s Essay contest about “A Day in the Life of Your Pet.” Mary Hughes from the Montgomery Humane Society presented her with a medal and a certificate.

Kindergarten classes at Evangel Christian Academy recently celebrated Winnie the Pooh’s birthday. During lunch, the students sang “Happy Birthday” to Pooh and enjoyed eating honey buns. The annual celebration was held on the birthday of A. A. Milne, the author and creator of Winnie the Pooh. The children were excited to learn that Christopher Robin was the real-life son of Milne. They also learned that the characters in the Hundred Acre Woods were based on stuffed animals Christopher Robin owned. The stories about Pooh and his friends were bedtime stories Milne told his son.

Please send Your School News to: editor@riverregionparents.com.

Saint James Track and Field Athletes Earn Repeat State Title The Saint James School girls’ track and field team led by Coach Tim Moore has delivered another AHSAA state championship to the capital city. This title makes four consecutive program titles and back-to-back indoor championships for the team. The Lady Trojans won the 2020 AHSAA 1A-3A Indoor Track and Field title in a down-to-the-wire battle February 8. Saint James girls’ indoor track was led by team captain Presley Miles, a junior at Saint James who scored a perfect forty points with a repeat of her four individual state championships, winning the 400m, 800m, 1600m and 3200m. She is the only athlete in the state to have achieved this feat and has now done it three straight times, bringing her overall individual state championship total to sixteen titles. Saint James senior Margaret Anne McNeil won her first state championship in the triple jump and was runner-up in the 60m hurdles. McNeil delivered a total of 20 points for the team. Other scoring athletes from Saint James included freshman Kendal Wright, 1600 runner-up; junior Logann Dean, 60m hurdles 3rd place; and Kendall Hardaway, Hannah Richardson, Mary Grace Hixon, Avery Varon, Aubrey Wright and Ella Reid Rodgers. Saint James indoor girls’ track & field team includes captain Presley Miles, Margaret Anne McNeil, Logann Dean, Kendal Wright, Hannah Richardson, Kendall Hardaway, Aubrey Wright, Mary Grace Hixon, Avery Varon, Ella Reid Rodgers, Sidnee Beavers, Anna Caradori and Addison Ritchie. Coaches are Tim Moore, Soyong Smith, Kevin Madden and Greg Miles. River Region Parents I March 2020

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Montgomery Catholic Elementary Campuses Celebrate Parents with Love Lunch

Each year on February 14, the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Holy Spirit and St. Bede elementary campuses celebrate the most special people in their lives: their parents. Parents, grandparents, and other special friends took some time during their busy afternoons to come to campus and eat lunch with their students. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a day that both the students and their families find very special, and it is a beautiful way to demonstrate love and caring on St. Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day.

ACA Robotics

Alabama Christian Academy Middle School Robotics classes are currently constructing VEX IQ robots which they will operate using a remote control. Once operating lessons are complete, students will use the robots to participate in a series of games designed to test their ability to drive, pick up, move and stack objects. Students will ultimately program the robots for autonomous usage such as object sorting and retrieval. While programming, students will employ the coding practices learned in Computer Science Discoveries last semester.

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Resurrection Participates In Jump Rope for Heart

Resurrection Catholic School students had fun as they participated in the Jump Rope for Heart fundraising and physical activity program based around skipping. This event teaches school-aged children how to keep fit and healthy, all while having fun and raising money to conduct research and education for heart disease.

ACA First Semester Middle School Honor Roll

Alabama Christian Academy recognized and Awarded the Middle School students who made the Honor Roll or earned the Head of School Award for first semester.

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Garrett Elementary Teacher Named MPS Elementary Teacher of the Year

Stacy Skanes of Garrett Elementary works hard to build leaders and keep her students engaged. That work was rewarded recently when she was named Montgomery Public Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year. She has been teaching for 13 years, and this is her fifth year at Garrett. She is the co-facilitator for the school’s Leader in Me program, a leadership model that Garrett and several other MPS schools use to create a culture of empowerment for students. Skanes said she strives to make learning fun and engaging using activities such as nature walks, science experiments and projects that incorporate Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math, also known as STEAM. She uses a wide variety of technology resources as well. Principal Anissha Officer said Skanes is a huge asset to the school. “Stacy Skanes is a wonderful and passionate educator. She is a go-getter who truly has a heart for children,” Officer said. Skanes was recognized at a recent Montgomery County Board of Education meeting, where she was joined by a group of supporters.

MA’s Robertson Joins Duke University Football

Montgomery Academy senior William Robertson signed a letter of intent to play football at Duke University. Robertson finished his career with MA football as one of the most productive players in program history. A four-year starter, he saw action at linebacker, long snapper, and wide receiver. He finished his career as the school’s all-time leader in receptions in a season (55), receiving yards in a season (900), career receptions (122), and career reception yards (1981). He also led in team tackles in 2019 and for his efforts was named to the All-Metro, All-Capital City Conference, and Honorable Mention All-State teams. He was awarded the MA Most Outstanding Receiver and Most Valuable Player Honors.

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Indoor Track and Field Athletes are State Bound

The following girls from Alabama Christian Academy qualified for State track competition: Kyndall Foley, 400 meter; and Kate Finch, 400 meter and 1600 meter. The following boys qualified: Connor Strowbridge, 400 meter; and Lane Kilpatrick, James Davis, Bryan Burleson and Noah Silmon in the 4 x 800 meter race.

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Trinity Celebrates 100 Days of School

The Trinity Presbyterian School kindergarten classes completed their celebration of the 100th day of school! Students dressed in their finest pearls and their softest pajamas. They wore hats, suspenders, glasses and wigs. Some needed walkers and canes to get around campus. Special visitors from Wesley Gardens Retirement Community dropped by to talk to the children and patiently answered all of their questions. The festivities ended with a party full of activities and of course, a huge cake! Thank you to all of the parents and teachers who helped to coordinate this fun Trinity tradition.

Alabama Dance Theatre

Kitty Seale, Founding Artistic Director

Kate Seale Smith, Artistic Director

SUMMER CLASSES, Age 3 to Professional Level

June 8 - July 9

Tutus & Tiaras! Ages 3 - 8

June 1 - 5

Stars on the Riverfront

July 26 & 27

Summer Dance Seminar

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at the Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Avenue

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River Region Parents I March 2020

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BTW Piano Students Perform at Honors Recital Booker T. Washington Magnet High piano students Christina Rollins, Marcus Daniel and Lizbeth Dominguez were chosen to perform at an Honors Recital at Dalraida Baptist Church on Feb. 2. They were chosen to perform after the Boykin Piano Festival, which was held the day before at BTW. About 240 Montgomery pianists from ages 6 to 18 performed for eight judges from Alabama colleges and private studios. Each judge selected three honor students to perform at the Honors Recital. BTW piano students also received several recognitions for their performances, including 17 Outstanding, four Excellent, and two Good ratings.

Dozier Students Win Scholarships

Three Dozier Elementary fifth-graders are reaching for new heights with help from the Gathering of Eagles Foundation. Marquis Braswell, Cornelius Prevo and ZanTarus Glass have won paid scholarships, covering all expenses and travel, to participate in extended learning involving aviation and aerospace. Braswell, left, and Prevo, right, will attend the National Flight Academy in Pensacola, Fla., during spring break.Glass, center, will attend the Space Academy in Huntsville this summer. 35

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Montgomery Academy’s Jackson Continues Volleyball Career at Tuskegee University

BTW Law Students Receive Gathering of Eagles Scholarships

Booker T. Washington Magnet High law students Randy Weaver and Finsen Yu received scholarships from the Gathering of Eagles Foundation to attend the National Flight Academy in Pensacola. They are shown with Levicy Crawford, the foundation’s assistant vice president of scholarship and outreach.

Montgomery Academy senior Grace Jackson signed a letter of intent to continue her volleyball career at Tuskegee University. Jackson was a member of the MA Varsity Volleyball team that won back-to-back state championships in 2018 and 2019 and was state runner-up in 2017. In her career at MA, she recorded 1,241 digs. “We are so proud of Grace and all of her accomplishments on and off the court,” Coach Julie Gordon said.

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

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Montgomery Catholic Dedicates New Performing Arts Building

On the evening of February 10, friends, supporters, faculty and students of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School gathered inside the new performing arts building at the middle and high school campus for its dedication by Thomas J. Rodi, Archbishop of Mobile. It was standingroom only as a large crowd amassed to take part in the ceremony to unveil and bless the new facility. “They’ve always had fine arts,” said Gwen Byrd, superintendent of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Mobile, in her opening remarks about Montgomery Catholic. “But now this is a facility for the arts, and it’s going to get better and better for our curriculum.” The 51-year-old Father Pat Delahunty Memorial Gymnasium, which was replaced by a 33,000 square foot athletic center in the fall of 2019, was breathed new life as a state-of-the-art performing arts classroom facility. The transformation of the Fr. Delahunty comes at a time when the band, chorus and drama programs are seeing tremendous growth and expansion, and Archbishop Rodi emphasized the importance of incorporating the arts into a well-rounded curriculum. “God has given us talents and abilities,” Archbishop Rodi said, “and a Catholic school educates the whole student, going to back to the concept of being educated academically, athletically, socially, culturally and spiritually. That’s a unique gift of a Catholic school.” When Director of Bands Alex Johnson took the helm in 2010, the marching band only had 12 members. Today, the award-winning Marching Knights band features more than 60 musicians and auxiliary members and grows each year. The concert band program has around 80 students in grades 7 through 12 and 50 students in grade 5 and 6. In the spring of 2019, the 7th grade, 8th grade, and high school concert bands each earned straight superior ratings in all categories at the Alabama Bandmasters Association Musical Performance Assessment, an honor that had not achieved by all three bands simultaneously before. The choral and drama departments are also looking forward to the renovation as the new building will feature classroom space dedicated to both programs. The high school choir sings at every weekly school Mass. Serving the greater community, the choir sings at the annual Red Mass held at St. Peter Catholic Church to mark the beginning of the judicial year. They were also invited to sing at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Montgomery Area Perpetual Adoration Chapel at Our Lady Queen of Mercy Church. In the 2018-2019 season, the drama students performed A Christmas Hard Day’s Knight in the style of a madrigal dinner theater, followed in the spring by the 2012 revival version of Stephen Schwartz’s Godspell. This fall, students from all four Montgomery Catholic campuses performed Alabama Stories, a montage of excerpts from plays that take place in Alabama. The drama program will perform Thoroughly Modern Millie this spring.

MA Middle Schoolers Participate in Junior Youth Legislature

Forty-seven Montgomery Academy seventh- and eighth-graders attended the Alabama YMCA Youth in Government’s (ALYIG) Junior Youth Legislature program on January 24. The Alabama YMCA Junior Youth Legislature is in its 28th year and it is designed specifically for students who show an interest in the government process. It is designed to prepare students for moral and political leadership in the American democratic process by providing guidance, training and experience in the theory and practice of determining public policy. It also provides a fellowship that makes for an understanding of other people’s problems, to help accept defeat without discouragement and to stimulate tolerance towards another’s point of view. Three bills passed in the House chamber; two of those bills were authored by MA students. Mary Elizabeth Cole and Marianna Lassner’s bill, Saving Alabama’s Treasures, passed. The second bill, School Shooting Training for Teachers, authored and debated by Win Berry, Mac Freeman, Ware McCollum, and Holt Speir, also passed.

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Lee Student Places At DECA Event

Lee High School student Cameron Stewart placed 2nd in the Accounting Applications Event at the Alabama DECA Competitive Events & Conference in Birmingham February 19-20. He will proceed to the National level in Nashville, Tenn., April 27-May 1.

STJ Musicians Earn All-State & All-District Honors

After auditions in late January, four Saint James students earned distinguished chairs in the All-District Honor Band. They are, front row, Danny Trock, 7th grade, Flute; and Alex Clenney, 8th grade, French Horn. Upper row are senior Jack Branham, Tuba; and junior Chris Shiffer, French Horn. Branham earned 1st Chair for the district and advances to the top honor band at the state level in April for Alabama Bandmasters Association All-State.

Churchill Holds Open House in Preparation for Open Enrollment

January and February served as Open House opportunities for the community to get to know the team at Churchill Academy. Families of the River Region gathered to tour the school and enjoy refreshments while learning more about the school. Current Churchill families, school administrators and teachers greeted new families during these open houses, introducing them to opportunities the school has to offer unique learners. Open enrollment at Churchill Academy begins on March 1, and private tours continue to be available to those who may have missed the community open houses in January and February.

100 Days at ECA

Resurrection Catholic Open House

Resurrection Catholic School (K-6) hosted an Open House for perspective pre-K families. Several new families attended with the opportunity to preview the pre-K classroom, listen to parent testimonials, participate in question/answer session, and enjoy refreshments. River Region Parents I March 2020

Evangel Christian Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elementary classes recently celebrated the 100th day of school. The children participated in several activities that highlighted the number 100. The students ate 100 things and brought in 100 items. Many students dressed up to look like they were 100 years old. www.riverregionparents.com

School custodians are appreciated more than they sometimes realize, but secondgraders at Dalraida Elementary made sure that their custodian got the message. The students were taking part in the Liberty Legacy program, where each year schools honor their chosen “Torch Team” heroes. The second-graders surprised custodian Dorothy Singleton by honoring her as their hero. This was a touching sendoff for Singleton, who is retiring this year. She said she was moved by the students’ heartfelt gesture.

Montgomery Academy Fifth-Graders Learn to Play Ukulele

Montgomery Academy fifth-graders have been learning how to read chords and play a stringed instrument through the ukulele program. The class recently practiced singing “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” while strumming the accompaniment.

Cornerstone 8th-Graders Hold Classroom Debate

After studying the legends of King Arthur and Merlin, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy 8th-grade students held a formal debate. The topic of the debate was “Is there such a thing as good magic?” Students utilized the texts they had studied as well as the Bible to support their arguments. Through the debate, students are learning to engage in reasoned, evidencebased, respectful civil discourse which is grounded in scripture. Such activities are ultimately in furtherance of Cornerstone’s mission of training students to think critically, reason clearly, and communicate persuasively and articulately from a biblical perspective.

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March is a month of many milestones in Pike Road Schools, including the selection of district teachers of the year, the beginning of spring sports, preparation for our first graduating class, spring testing, and spring theater perfor-

mances to name a few. Pike Road teachers, students, and administrators continue to lead the way in education. I am very proud of the contributions they are making to the overall success of our school district. Our elementary teachers and learners just celebrated the 100th day of school and kicked off Book Madness. Book Madness is an initiative designed to create a love for reading and improve reading skills. Mrs. Barner, one of our 2nd grade teacher’s was recently presented with the Class Act Award from WSFA. March Math Madness is in full swing at Pike Road Middle School (PRMS). March Math

River Region Parents I March 2020

Madness is a math competition intended to make math practice less stressful and more fun resulting in improved math skills. Monthly data meetings indicated PRMS learners have made tremendous gains in their learning since this fall. In addition to excelling in the classroom, theater students at PRMS have worked diligently to prepare for their upcoming spring comedy performance, Bedtime Stories “As told by our Dad, Who Messed them Up”. At the high school level 99% of our seniors are on track to graduate. In addition, 34% of our seniors have earned college credit through the dual enrollment pathways we offer. David Sikes, principal at Pike Road High School, was just elected as the Vice President of the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals. In this significant role he will serve as the legislative voice for secondary principals from across the state as well as travel to Washington D.C to meet with State Representatives on education policy and issues. Further, as a credit to our district and its many accomplishments, I was just elected to serve as president of the AASA Century Club 100 during the Annual Meeting and Collegial Congress 2020 luncheon at the AASA National Conference

on Education in San Diego. The CC 100 is the longest ongoing tradition associated with the AASA National Conference on Education. Originally serving as the governing body of the American Association of School Administrators, since 1925 the Century Club 100 has served as an honorary organization that facilitates a cross-country exchange of ideas and fosters educational leadership. I am the second Century Club 100 president from Alabama, the former being C.M. Dannelly, former Montgomery County superintendent, who served as president in 1958 and 1959. The future is bright for Pike Road Schools! Keep an eye on us as we continue to lead the way in education and make our district the best it can be. THINK. INNOVATE. CREATE. 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 Cheerleaders Place 7th at Nationals

PRES Kicks Off Book Madness

For the fifth year, Pike Road Elementary School (PRES) kicked off a Book Madness initiative. The excitement this year began with a video from Auburn Men’s Basketball Coach Bruce Pearl, who encouraged PRES learners to read. Book Madness is a knock-off of the NCAA basketball tournament “March Madness.” The competition starts with sixteen books and is a single elimination tournament. The Sweet Sixteen turns into the Elite Eight. The Elite Eight becomes the Final Four. The Final Four turns into the Championship Game which results in the Book of the Year. The bracket is in a visible place in the school that results in children talking about books each time they walk by it. Sixteen books are submitted and paired into eight matchups. The teachers read the eight matchups. The learners have ballots to vote on the book from each matchup that they like the best. Votes are tallied in each classroom, and the votes are tabulated across the kindergarten and firstgrade classrooms. The 400 learners gather to hear the results of which books move on in the tournament and which books have to exit. The final vote for the Book of the Year takes place on iPads. The learners vote at the same time and the votes are projected on the screen so that learners and lead learners see the results of the championship book at the same time. The championship game will take place on March 11. The purpose of Book Madness is to get learners excited about reading. Excitement of reading leads to actual reading, which leads to practice, which leads to becoming a stronger reader. Parents purchase the books so that each classroom has the entire set of tournament books for the children to hold, touch, read and love. River Region Parents I March 2020

The Pike Road cheerleaders placed 7th in the Universal Cheer Association National High School Championship Cheer Competition(NHSCC). The NHSCC is the most prestigious cheerleading championship in the country. The competition is held at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. Teams must receive a bid invitation in order to qualify to compete at this level. In addition to cheering for the Pike Road varsity football and basketball teams, cheerleaders had a grueling practice and competition schedule. They competed in local, regional and state competitions where they placed in the top three for their division. They were among 22 teams in their division that received an invitation to compete in the NHSCC. The girls ranked 7th out of the 22 teams on their semi-finals performance which advanced them to finals in the NHSCC. Out of the 11 teams that advanced to the finals, Pike Road cheerleaders again placed 7th. This is amazing for a FIRST year competition team! The team is comprised of 23 girls and they are coached by Keshia Burrow and school sponsor Amber Stevens.

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Pike Road Varsity Wresting Team Sends Six to State

After two grueling days of wrestling at the Super South Sectional Tournament at the Garrett Coliseum, six Pike Road varsity wrestlers finished in the top 8 of their weight class and qualified for state championship. The wrestlers are Hinds Duncan (1st place, 106 weight); Myers Duncan (3rd place, 112); George Coley (8th place, 126); Matthew Rice (5th place, 132) Jack Coley (8th place, 152) and Bishop Singleton (7th place, 170). As a team, Pike Road finished 7th out of 32 teams. Pike Road competes in the 1-5A division and is coached by Craig Duncan. 42

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Woodworking Students Create Gifts for School Board Members January was School Board Recognition Month, and Pike Road Schools participated in a variety of efforts to say “thank you” to the PRS Board of Education. At the Jan. 27 school board meeting, each member received a wooden desk organizer, handmade by Pike Road Students in Mr. Noles’s woodworking class. To make this gift even more special, the organizers were created using wood from the original bleachers of the Pike Road High School Gym on the Georgia Washington Campus.

PRMS Students Excel at Junior Youth Legislature Recently, C7 & C8 learners from Pike Road Schools participated in the 2020 YMCA Junior Youth Legislature, where they learned about parliamentary procedure, debate, and wrote sample legislation. This experience is a great opportunity for students to enter into the world of state-level legislation. Noah and Charlie Gaston were recognized as Outstanding Delegates for their contributions!

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Pike Road Elementary Teacher Publishes Children’s Book

Terry Collins, kindergarten teacher at Pike Road Elementary School (PRES), recently authored and published a children’s book that is also in the Library of Congress. It took Collins a few days to write the story but more than six months to fine tune and edit the book. “This writing adventure taught me several things, but most of all... how to accept constructive criticism,” Collins said. “Now that it was ‘ready for the world,’ I submitted my manuscript to a book publishing company, upon recommendation from a good friend. Mascot Books was her recommendation and, to my surprise, they wanted to publish it. I got a phone call on my birthday. It was the best birthday present ever!” The spark that ignited the story idea came from one of Collins’s friends that posted a problem he was having with a rat on Facebook. It made her think about writing a friendly scenario with threads of love, kindness and respect for others. She wanted to write a story that would encourage young readers to see past appearances and accept and celebrate people for who they are with a message of “size doesn’t matter when you believe in yourself,” a happy ending. Collins has plans to publish and write more children’s stories. In fact, she has two in the works now. She enjoys writing about character building and feelings, using quirky animals to portray a story. Pike Road Schools truly values her passion for differences and her desire to encourage young learners to respect others. River Region Parents I March 2020

Pike Road Varsity Basketball Teams Region Champs

Pike Road Varsity Boys and Girls Basketball teams both won the 3A, Region 5 Area Champions! Both teams have also advanced to the Sweet 16! Most impressive for two year young Varsity programs. Varsity girls are coached by Courtney Ward and assistant coaches Joi Washington and Quawon Baldwin. Varsity Boys are coached by Rob McGaughey and assistant coach Keegan Bell. We are Patriot Proud of these players and coaches!

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PRHS Principal Elected as VP of Alabama Association of Secondary Principals

David Sikes, principal of Pike Road High School, was recently elected as the vice president of the Alabama Association of Secondary Principals (AASP) for the state of Alabama. Other secondary principals from across the state elected Sikes to serve in this significant role where he will be a voice with our legislators, travel to Washington, D.C. to meet with state representatives on education policy and issues, and set up AASP conferences. 44

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Pike Road Track Teammates Earn Gold, Silver and Bronze Nia White and Kaan Oliver, both seniors at Pike Road High School, brought home victories from the AHSAA Indoor Championship. White placed first in the 60 meter dash and long jump. Kaan placed first in the 60 meter hurdles, breaking the 1a-3a division state record with a time of 9.05 seconds. She placed second in the 60 meter dash and third in the 400 meter race. Both girls wanted to give Coach Derrick Riley credit for his love for young athletes and the sport of track. “I’ve known Coach Riley since I started running at the age of 10,” White said. “He became my coach when I was in the 10th grade and since then he’s been everything I could ask for and more. Coach Riley goes out of his way to make sure we are the best at whatever we do... he always shows up to watch us at each track meet and if he can’t make it, he is checking results online and texting/calling us to check up on us. He doesn’t just coach; he teaches us life lessons that we can take with us when our track career has ended. His wife has also been like a second mom for us always cheering us on.” Oliver said, “I was first introduced to Coach Riley through Nia the summer of

our freshman year. He then became my coach and I’ve been running with him and the Max Speed family ever since. He goes above and beyond to make sure that we are the best that we can possibly be. Even when I didn’t think I actually wanted to take track past high school, he would always find a way to show me that the talent I have is God-given and I should take it as far as I possibly can. One of the things he always tells me is, ‘I can’t want it more than you do, Kaan.’ He’s always at every meet and he is always checking up on us to ensure everything is going as smooth as practice does.” Coach Cleveland, the indoor track coach at Pike Road, added, “This was my first year to coach indoor track. To be able to see first-hand how hard these two girls work at their sport was an amazing sight to see. They both have shown an endless amount of potential as they continually improved throughout the season to the state meet. I got several chances to talk with their private coach, Derrick Riley, while watching at the meets during this season. Derrick Riley is an incredible man who has a profound love and enjoyment of coaching young athletes and the sport of track. He told me countless times about how these

girls can do anything when they realize what they are capable of and get out of their own way... and they certainly did that at the state meet. The girls crushed it, taking home three gold medals, one silver, and a bronze. He is an incredible coach and a role model for me. He would never ask for any credit but he has impacted the lives of many young athletes and he deserves all the credit in the world for changing the lives of these athletes.”

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Setting goals is an important part of life. Some goals seem daunting, but through hard work and dedication, most can be attained. The Autauga County School System is always setting new goals for our faculty and students. Reaching new heights and bettering ourselves is simply a part of who we are, so it is with great pride that I share our latest news. Autauga County Schools received an 88 “B” on the state report card. This is a 2-point increase from last year and demonstrates the excellence teachers and administrators strive for each day-despite being severely underfunded.

Speaking of achieving goals, the Autaugaville and Marbury Varsity Boys’ Basketball teams both advanced to the Regional Tournament in February. This is a huge accomplishment! I want to recognize and congratulate the coaches and players. Coach Darren Golson guided the Autaugaville Eagles to a 20-12 season. The Eagles fought hard in the Regional Tournament before Frances Marion High School pulled away in the 4th quarter. Congratulations to the following players on a great Eagle season: Ladarrien Golson, Deontae Hester, Dimitri Nelson, Jaden Nixon, Antonio Perry Jr., Jamarcus Rose, Jermaine Sanders, DeWaun Stubbs, Jeremiah Taylor, Dontrell Wilson, and Montrell Wilson! Coach Reginald Brown guided the Marbury Bulldogs to a 25-10 season. The Bulldogs fought the LeFlore Rat-

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tlers into overtime, but lost the Regional Tournament. Congratulations to the following players on a great Bulldog season: Pharrell Banks, Dantavius Bristow, Reginald Brown, Zamari Brown, Cedric Calloway, Jessie Caver, Devin Clark, Azeer Hicks, Samuel Klimek, Xavier Quince, Landon Riley, and Kyle Tucker! I hope everyone has a fun and restful Spring Break (March 23-27) and returns refreshed for testing season. The 2020-2021 school calendar was approved in February to allow everyone to start planning for next year. You can find it on our website at acboe.net.

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.

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Autauga County Schools

Prattville Intermediate Inducts New Jr. Beta Members Prattville Intermediate School held its annual fifth and sixth grade Jr. Beta Club induction ceremonies February 11. The newly inducted Jr. Beta Club members totaled 155 well-deserving young scholars.

Prattville Primary Firefighter Lesson

During career week, Ms. Russell’s 2nd-grade students at Prattville Primary School learned about firefighters. Keith Jefferson, a Montgomery firefighter, came and spoke with the students. They discussed the responsibilities of a firefighter as well as exit plans and drills for their homes. Jefferson brought some of his gear and even let the students try it on. The students really enjoyed learning about firefighters.

PJHS Hosts Career Tech Month

Prattville Jr. High School’s Future Business Leaders of America, Technology Student Association, and the Counseling Department hosted many activities to celebrate Career Tech Month. One of the many events was a schoolwide Career Fair, which allowed students to interact one-on-one with community and business industry experts. Students networked with businesses from many industry areas including automotive, architecture, forestry, transportation, engineering, health and hospitality. Prattville Jr. High School’s Career Tech Program goals are to expose and encourage students to explore as many career pathways as possible while building a strong technical skill foundation to introduce and guide them toward a facet of career pathway choices. Also, students dressed as their future career profession and got the opportunity to job shadow with the school’s professional faculty and staff members.

ASE Credit Union Caters Pine Level Teacher Lunch

The teachers at Pine Level Elementary had a duty-free lunch that was catered by the ASE Credit Union. A team from the area branches cooked and served hot dogs to the faculty and staff. Thank you, ASE, for partnering with us at PLES. We appreciate your support and community involvement.

History Meets Cake Wars at PJHS

Ms. Spencer’s world history classes held rounds of Cake Wars during a recent unit on Greece. Students researched a specific god/goddess and created a design that included 90% edible components to showcase what they learned. Students were creative in their approach while enjoying a different way to learn. River Region Parents I March 2020

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PJHS and PPD Team Up

Prattville Junior High sponsored the 3rd annual First Respondersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Basketball Game. Members of the Prattville Police Department played a couple of games of basketball with our students as we showcased positive community relations. The PPD remains undefeated against the students, although the 7th-grade team gave them a run for their money. We appreciate a community dedicated to safety!

Pine Level Teacher Receives Golden Apple Award

Cassie Fields, 3rd grade math and science teacher from Pine Level Elementary School, received the February 2020 ABC 32/CBS 8 Alabama News Network Golden Apple Award for Excellence in the Classroom.

DPES Student Wins District-Wide Contest

Daniel Pratt Elementary sixth-grader Savannah Foreman won the districtwide Spelling Bee. She is a student in Mrs. Shortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Class at DPES.

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Autauga County Schools

Prattville Christian Academy’s Jake Bius Signs Stetson University Football Scholarship

Prattville Christian Academy senior Jake Bius has declared his intent to pursue his passion for football at Stetson University, an NCAA Division I school in DeLand, Fla., on National Signing Day surrounded by family and friends. Bius is only the second studentathlete in the program’s history to sign with a Division I school. Bius, a 6’4”, 275-pound beast, stepped up for the Panthers during the 2019 season on both sides of the ball as an offensive tackle and defensive lineman. During his senior season, he made 35 tackles, 15 assists, and multiple quarterback hurries, as well as 25 pancake blocks. Bius was awarded the Team Captain Award for his leadership qualities and work ethic. “Jake is always hungry to improve and appreciative of the coaching he gets to make him an even better athlete,” said Ed Lovvorn, PCA’s defensive coordinator. “This attitude will take him a long way.” Bius has been passionate about football since he was a young boy, and has played since he was in second grade. He has been a starter for the Panthers since his sophomore year. “Jake is a hard worker and a great leader in the way he works on and off the field,” said Jeremy Carter, PCA’s head football coach. “He has a determination that is required at the next level of football. He is a Godly young man with all the right tools to become the man that God desires him to be. I am proud of Jake and the way he has modeled leadership and work ethic for future student-athletes.”

Daniel Pratt Teacher Earns Class Act Award

Emily McKay was chosen for WSFA’s Class Act Award. McKay has been a teacher for twelve years, nine of those years at Daniel Pratt Elementary. She is married with two boys and says, “It is an honor to teach in the county that taught me so much and made me who I am today.”

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Billingsley School Family Movie Night

The parents and students of Billingsley School enjoying a free night of fun at their Annual Movie Night. The participants enjoyed popcorn, friends, and family as the watched Abominable. The event was hosted by the teachers in grades K- 2 as a part of their monthly parental involvement activities. These special events are put on to encourage a strong partnership between community and school.

Pine Level First-Graders Hold Musical Program

The first-grade students at Pine Level Elementary held a special musical program for parents. The students dressed as their favorite crayon color. The message of the program was about being you and being your best. Thank you to the students, teachers, parents and teacher Megan Anglin for a wonderful performance.

Happy Birthday Across the World! Students in Hannah Mehergâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ESL (English as a Second Languate) elective class celebrated her birthday in style. Celebrations included traditions from around the world. Several students had never had a birthday party, so they enjoyed singing, cake, selfies and more.

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Autauga County Schools

Prattville Primary Readers Complete Challenge

Prattville Primary School students partnered with the Autauga Prattville Public Library to complete a Winter Reading Challenge. Each child had a goal of a number of books to read during the challenge. Several students completed the challenge and were treated to a magic show at the public library.

Pine Level Classes Receive New Art Books

The gifted classes at Pine Level elementary have been able to add books about art and artists thanks to the Prattville-Autauga Character Coalition. The books will be used to inspire creativity, define art concepts, and encourage uniqueness. The stories in the books appeal to the students in a positive and emotional style of learning.

River Region Parents I March 2020

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We believe that every child in our school system is someone’s whole world! Our students’ safety takes priority over every other area of school and system operations. I would like to focus on two areas related to school safety – inclement weather and the growing impact of mental health concerns in our schools. Mother Nature can deliver some frightening weather events, as evidenced by the tornado that struck downtown Wetumpka in January 2019. The frequency of inclement weather has increased significantly, it seems, in recent years, and we are faced with the question of when and how severely a particular weather event will affect our school day more often than in years past. Anytime a severe weather event is predicted, we begin immediately monitoring weather forecasts and com-

River Region Parents I March 2020

municating with Elmore County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Director Keith Barnett. The frequency of those communications increases the closer the weather event gets to our area. Our first consideration is whether we can safely transport our students to and from school which is determined by the timing of the weather event and road conditions. The last thing we want to happen is for our students to be in route to school in the midst of a predicted severe weather event. Another factor we consider is that the school building is often safer than the housing for many students. Weather patterns, timing, road conditions, and our ability to transport students safely inform our decision for a late start or school closure. Mental health is a growing concern in our school system, as it is in schools and districts throughout the nation. One specific area where we have seen an increase in mental health-related incidents is the adverse effects of stress on students caused by threats made on schools. A threat on a school has a domino effect.

With the proliferation of cell phones, word of a threat spreads rapidly. Students contact parents/guardians, social media posts begin almost instantly, inaccurate information is often shared, and panic ensues. Our central office, school administrators and staff are trained on safety procedures and spring into action immediately when a threat is received, including contacting law enforcement, to assist in investigating the threat. Because of the turmoil caused by the threat, however, students are upset, and instructional time is lost. Some students are much more susceptible to stress and/or anxiety from such an event and need additional support. Students must first feel safe – then we can empower them to succeed in school and in life!

Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

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Elmore County Schools

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 March 2020

RES Receives Donation from Ingram Redland Elementary School thanks Rep. Reid Ingram for supporting the school’s one-to-one initiative with the presentation of a $6,000 donation. From left are Redland Principal Chad Walls, Rep. Ingram, Redland Assistant Principal Georgia Pinkston and Elmore County Schools Superintendent Richard Dennis.

Wetumpka Middle School Students Win Awards at County District Science Fair

The following Wetumpka Middle School students won awards at the Elmore County District Science Fair held at Alabama Nature Center: First photo, second from left, Allen Wright, first place, engineering; Emma Wasden, first place, physical and chemical energy; Lily Vilardi, third place, medicine/health; and second photo, far right, Joseph LeFevre, first place, life science.

Eclectic Elementary January Students of the Month

Kindergarten: Jaylen Compton, Jakayden Freeman, Jace Hall, Hensley Greene, Lily Grace Mann and Rachel Jarrett; 1st Grade: Destanie Floyd, Trayvon Pierson, Jaquan Kendrick, Preslyn Luster and Maci Bailey; 2nd Grade: A’zarian Riley, Braylynn Clayton, Sophia Mulder, Alice Buckley and Aidyn Blackburn; 3rd Grade: Kamren Floyd, Eason Clark, Bryce Allen, Graysen Scanlan and Ja’Edlen Benson; and 4th Grade: Tripp Edwards, Natalee Mann, Emma Nummy and Caitlyn O’Banion

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Homeschoolers Demonstrate “Canned-do” Attitude

Students at Academy Days Co-op in Millbrook delivered and shelved 205 canned items at Millbrook’s Welcome Inc., a food bank which serves West Elmore County families in need. Pictured are Landon Baughcum of Deatsville, Sutherlin Halbrooks and Dawson Halbrooks of Montgomery; Levi Baughcum and Isabelle Baughcum of Deatsville; Kellen Halbrooks and Shelby Carter of Montgomery, and Annie Flanagan of Deatsville. The homeschoolers represent 50 families in the tri-county area who participate in the homeschool co-op. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information.

Holtville Student Council Conducts Shelter Drive

Holtville Elementary School’s Student Council conducted a drive to collect items for the Elmore County Humane Shelter. Shown are Student Council members taking a break from collecting items and posing for a picture.

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Elmore County Schools

Wetumpka High Winter Guard Scores Superior

Wetumpka High School Band’s Winter Guard team learned a routine within a month, cleaned it and performed in their first competition of the season recently in Prattville. The girls earned Superior ratings.

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Stanhope Senior Receives AUM Theatre Scholarship

Will Walker, a senior at Stanhope Elmore High School, has become the first-ever Stanhope student to receive a full-tuition scholarship for theatre studies. He signed his letter accepting a $32,000 scholarship from Auburn University at Montgomery in front of a big crowd of family, friends and fellow theatre members in the school library. SEHS Principal Ewell Fuller said he is extremely proud of Walker’s accomplishment, and gave a special shout-out to instructor and theatre director Brady Walker (no relation) who recently took over the program. “I told Mr. Walker that I wanted him to get our theatre program off the ground, and he has done way more than that,” Fuller said. “I hope to have a lot more signings like this one in the future.” The school also received recent word that the SEHS Mustang Players theatre group has been given a $15,000 grant that will allow the students to do a multitude of things to advance their program. Thanks to the talents of SEHS teacher Susanne Harrison who penned the grant, Brady Walker said the grant from the Daniel Foundation will help purchase props, sets, costumes, lights and sound equipment. Shown above are, front row from left, Ramona Walker (mom) and Will Walker; back row, Michael Walker (dad), Brady Walker (SEHS theatre director) and Val Winkelman (AUM theatre professor).

River Region Parents I March 2020

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Holtville Elementary Holds Annual Spelling Bee

Holtville Elementary School recently held its annual Spelling Bee for third and fourth grades. The homeroom winners are shown below, along with the grade-level winners.

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Wetumpka High Wrestler Named State Champion

Wetumpka High School junior Mason Blackwell is a two-time STATE CHAMPION. He was the youngest Wetumpka wrestler to medal at state in 8th grade, he’s Wetumpka’s first four-time state medalist, and now he has become Wetumpka’s first twotime STATE CHAMP! With three first-period pins, he won a title and only wrestled a total of 3 minutes, 46 seconds in the entire tournament!

Airport Road Intermediate Holds Valentine’s Dance

Airport Road Intermediate School held its annual Valentine’s Dance. Congratulations to the ARIS King and Queen and all students who participated.

Send Your school news to: editor@ riverregionparents.com. It’s FREE!

EXPEDITION LANARK SUMMER DAY

is filled with

, adventure &friendships!

EXPERIENCE a new program like ARTventure. LEARN the basics of bee keeping at Busy Bee Camp. SEARCH for tadpoles, frogs, fish, salamanders and other aquatic insects. EXPLORE Still Creek and catch some of the 98 different species of crayfish found in Alabama. CHECK OUT our interactive hands-on Discovery Hall. GET HANDS-ON with some of our educational animals such as our baby alligator, eastern indigo snake, gopher tortoise, and more.

CHECK US OUT:

www.alabamawildlife .org

We also offer 2 Spring Break Camps & a Thanksgiving Camp! 59

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5 Risky Apps to Watch Out For

What parents need to know: Video-chatting with strangers can be risky for teens. When it’s paired with location, it’s a no-go. Also, while HOLLA supposedly bans iffy content -- like nudity and violence -- user reviews indicate that masturbation, fake identities, and negative comments are common. The app’s age-matching is a red flag, too. It was easy for our tester to pose as a 13-year-old and get paired with 16- and 17-year-olds. Similar apps: Yubo, MeetMe - Chat and Meet New People, Spotafriend - Teen Meeting App To Make New Friends, ChatLive, Random Video Chat

It seems like every time you turn around, there’s a new app -or type of app -- that’s popular with tweens and teens. Of course, it’s nearly impossible to keep up with every hot new app, which makes knowing the risky features -- like interaction with strangers, anonymity, privacy concerns, and iffy content -- a solid first step. But it’s still important to know the specifics of what’s on your kid’s device and whether or not you’ll allow it to stay there.

BIGO LIVE - Live Stream

IMVU: 3D Avatar Creator & Chat

Kind of like Twitch and YouTube, BIGO LIVE lets teens stream live video of themselves that other users can see and comment on in real time. You can also receive and send “Beans” -BIGO’s term for virtual gifts -- that cost real money. You can level up and improve your ranking by logging in every day and sending gifts. The platform is designed for people who supposedly want to get famous, but it seems to be filled mainly with people competing for gifts. What parents need to know: BIGO has a lot of mature content, including sexy talk and clothing, and users’ comments are often predatory and explicit. Also, its focus on status and spending money, as opposed to creativity and talent, makes it feel shallow.Similar apps: Tagged - Chill, Chat & Go Live! and imo video calls and chat.

Using the website or the app, users interact through elaborate 3D avatars. You can dress them up, place them in public or private rooms, and follow other users and chat with them. You can also buy a wide variety of objects using virtual coins -- earned primarily through taking surveys or watching ads or through buying outright with real money. There’s no game or goal other than acquiring outfits, rooms, furniture, and other items or chatting with other users. What parents need to know: Virtual sex and user privacy are the main issues for teens in IMVU. The avatars sport highly stereotypical body types with big muscles or breasts, and many of the outfits are skimpy. It also appears that users generate a following on other platforms by sharing their IMVU usernames, which invites more contact with people they don’t know. Finally, the search term “IMVU sex” results in lots of advice about how to have (virtual avatar) sex and where to find it in IMVU. Similar app: Avakin Life

BitLife

In this simulation game, you’re assigned an identity to play through the entire game, from infancy to death. As you play -- and your character gets older -- you can make text-based choices about how to make money, spend time, and develop relationships with pretend profiles (which aren’t connected to real people). Those choices determine your levels of happiness, health, smarts, and appearance. When you die, you can start all over. What parents need to know: While kids can’t engage in actual risky behavior, BitLife exposes them to mature ideas. As your character gets older, you can choose to “hook up” with the pretend profiles, drink, do drugs, gamble, and commit crimes. (On the other hand, you can make healthy choices such as going to the gym and meditating.) It’s also easy for players to become overly fixated on the idealized world of sim games. Similar app: Reigns

Socratic by Google

This app lets you take a picture of a homework problem or question and get an answer and explanation in return, similar to Photomath - Camera Calculator. Because it’s more focused and filtered than an open internet search, the results are more targeted and helpful (in other words, it gives you the answers). What parents need to know: The biggest concern is cheating. If your kid decides to use this app as an easy way out of homework, they’ll lose a lot of learning. Secondly, since the answers come from the internet, they aren’t always right. Used with good judgment (and monitoring by a parent), a teen could legitimately use Socratic to dig into tough concepts, but it’s pretty easy to use for cheating. Similar apps: Photomath - Camera Calculator, Mathway, Got It Study - Homework Help

HOLLA: Live Random Video Chat

This app is all about connecting with strangers. Once you sign up using a phone number or your Facebook account, you can get matched instantly with a stranger -- and both you and they appear on camera. Or you can swipe Tinder-style until you like someone and they like you (by tapping a heart). You can also enable location tracking to be paired with someone nearby. River Region Parents I March 2020

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Considering a sleep-away camp for your child this summer? Here are few tips to make the experience an adventure theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll remember long after the campfire songs are mere echoes in their ears. River Region Parents I March 2020

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Determining readiness. Overnight camps vary in size, scope and age, welcoming campers anywhere between the ages six and 19. Most kids are ready for an overnight camp by age eight or nine. Whether or not a child is ready for overnight camp depends on their personality and physical and emotional maturity. Kristina Marchuk, mom of three, says her oldest daughter Katelyn, 14, went to her first overnight, a week-long Girl Scouts camp, when she was 11, and her younger daughter Alyssa, 6, a Daisy in the Girl Scouts, will go to her first overnight camp this summer. Try day camps to help you introduce your youngster to the camp experience. Marchuk says sleepovers with grandparents and occasional overnights with their Girl Scout troops also helped her daughters prepare for extended sleep-away camps. Consider the length of the camp. Because Alyssa is younger and hasn’t spent many nights away from home without at least big sister present, Marchuk chose a shorter three-day camp to see how she does. “I’m more nervous about Alyssa. She’s going into second grade and will only be seven by the summer,” Marchuk says. “I’m glad they offer that option to get the kids acclimated to spending time away from parents.” Trish Barnes, the Executive Women’s Director and K-2 Women’s Director at Camp Kanakuk, and a mom of three children and three step-children ranging in age from 12 to 30, says choosing the right duration of camp definitely depends on the child and your goals.

“The first year I sent my oldest son just for a week because I knew two weeks or a month would have been tough on him. A week would have been out of his comfort zone, but not so overwhelming where it would spin him into anxiety,” Barnes says. “My middle son? He was the complete polar opposite. He was ready to go for a month right off the bat.”

Set goals. Besides learning new skills, children learn how to collaborate and live in community while at camp, gaining selfconfidence and independence through problem-solving and teamwork. “The camping world is an unbelievable place where you can help your kids learn how to face disappointments, have a voice, make new friends or just get outside their comfort zone and try something new in a very safe environment,” Barnes says, who has worked at Kanakuk for 26 summers. “It’s such a great accomplishment for a kid to get to do that away from home so that they know they accomplished that on their own.” Also, include your child in deciding on a camp. Maybe they wish to hone a specific interest like a sport they enjoy or want to try a variety of new activities like canoeing, horseback riding or zip-lining.

Research the camp. Do you want a faith-based camp or a more secular type of environment? Where is the camp located? Are you seeking a camp that offers a smattering of activities or one that specializes in one of your child’s interests like art, music or a specific sport?

Look at the camp website. Talk to other parents for referrals. Visit the camp and talk to the camp director. Ask about counselor to camper ratios, safety policies and how the camp manages situations like homesickness, anxiety and medical situations. And listen to your intuition. Does the environment feel safe and well-organized? Is the staff kind, attentive and nurturing?

Manage expectations. Explain to your child that they need to stick with the camp through its duration. By seeing things through to the end, they will grow more independent in their ability to make decisions and more resilient to adversity and discomfort-skills which will prove invaluable as they grow into adulthood. “Coming home is not an option. Let them know that the expectation is that they are going to finish because once you start something, you want to finish it. The only reason you wouldn’t finish something is because you are in harm’s way or it’s going to be ethically, morally bad for you,” Barnes says.

Arrive prepared. Together with your child, spend time gathering everything they’ll need at camp. Through diligent research, careful preparation and a positive attitude, you’ll lower any anxiety they may have and set them up for a successful sleep-away camp experience. rrp Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published freelance journalist. She and her husband are the parents of two happy camper sons and a menagerie of pets. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in the Digital World.

PIECES AND PATTERNS QUILTS OF WEST ALABAMA On view through May 10, 2020 Come see the varied patterns and themes of traditional quilts in over 20 examples on view from quilters Plummer T. Pettway, Mary Maxtion, Yvonne Wells, Norah Ezell, Mary Lee Bendolph, and more. Preview the exhibition at mmfa.org. This exhibition was sponsored by the Alabama State Council on the Arts with additional support from cosponsors Dr. and Mrs. Robert Combs. Organized by the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Montgomery, Alabama. Mary Maxtion (American, 1924–2015), Hotel Window, ca. 1996, cotton, cotton/polyester blend, wool, and taffeta, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Gift of Kempf Hogan in honor of Nadine and Walter Ludwig, 2004.20.4

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

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High Score for Arcade Games

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

First appearing in the early 1900’s as part of the midway attractions at amusement parks, games of chance and skill have claimed their permanent space as part of the arcade experience. While flashy video games took over much of the gaming space in later years, traditional mechanical games held their ground and remain fixtures in arcades today. These more tactile traditional games are also ones that kids cut their arcade teeth on, with their simplicity and easy access. The following games are new versions of old favorites that bring classic arcade superstars right into the home.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Skee-Ball Classic Arcade Game

Whac A Mole (Catch Star)

(Buffalo Games)

A familiar game to any kid who’s visited an arcade, the game of Skee-Ball is more storied and complex than most folks know. Entertaining players since 1908, Skee-ball even has its own lingo with terms like ‘rook skee’, ‘hundo’ and ‘bombshell’ that describe different plays. The Skee-Ball Classic Arcade Game from Buffalo Games is the officially licensed version of this vintage sport. Crafted with quality, durable materials, Skee-Ball Classic includes a wooden base, game rules, five balls and four scoring hoops. This game can be played by 1 to 4 players with multiple competitive variations that add new twists and challenges to the traditional scoring. Skee-Ball Classic is super portable and can be set up in an instant on any tabletop or flat surface. Just add players and this arcade favorite is ready to go!

Recreating the game that stormed arcades in the 1970’s, Whac a Mole from Catch Star brings this energetic favorite into the home with a miniature version. The game base (with suction cups for anchoring) features colorful ‘moles’ with cheery expressions that light up in random order. The hammer handle is plastic, but the head is crafted with durable squishy foam protecting little fingers and the moles from unintended damage. With the goal of ‘whacking’ moles as quickly as possible when they light up, kids learn to focus their attention on the board as they race to pound the lights out. With sound features in English, Spanish and Music modes, there’s also an option for muting the sound. Ideal for building handeye coordination as well as relieving stress, this fast-paced arcade game pops its head up for active arcade play, right at home!

Giantex 27” Tabletop Foosball

Pop-a-Shot Dual Shot Sport Basketball

Take the field old-school with a whole team at your fingertips. The twist and turns, the slam and jam of foosball are ready to clear the table - right at home. With a whole team at your fingertips, this versatile foosball setup is ideal for play on most sturdy flat surfaces. Each team’s side features a goalie rod (goalie, two defenders), midfield rod and attacking rod (three players each). The rod grips are ergonomically designed for concise handling and energetic control. Both sides have abacus scoring and ball return (balls sold separately). Because it’s designed to take advantage of existing surfaces, this foosball game is easy to store under a bed or in a closet when not in play. Ideal for rec rooms, as well as game nights and playdates, kids and adults will love taking the field with this smaller version of the arcade foosball favorite!

Made from sturdy steel tubes with a powder coating to eliminate rusting and chipping, the Dual Shot Sport Basketball can withstand years of frequent use. An easily accessible panel control on the front accesses 10 total games, from the classic 1-on-1 competition to individual skill challenges; audio with 3 different music selections, sound effects (crowd noise and basket “swishes”) and an announcer who calls the game for you. The Dual Shot Sport includes an AC adapter so you can power the game via plug-in with the option of battery-powered play. This full-sized arcade fixture requires some dedicated assembly time, but the final result guarantees an addictive game play experience.

(Giantex)

(Pop-A-Shot)

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

River Region Parents I March 2020

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Many parents want their kids to experience summer camps but the idea of spending several nights away from home is a little scary for both the parent and child. A great alternative, especially for younger kids, is to send them to day camp. Day camp, as the name implies, typically consists of a series of consecutive days where the child is away during the

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daytime hours. Children leave in the morning to have the camp experience and come home in the afternoon or evening to have dinner with their families and sleep in their own beds. Day camp gives kids many of the same learning River Region Parents I March 2020

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Builds independence Camp is a great place for kids to explore their own independence and day camp is no different. Kids are dropped off at camp in the morning where they are challenged with new activities that they may not get the opportunity to try at home. They will make friends, eat lunch, and follow directions without the help of their parents. Kids start to feel more self confident and independent as the week goes on.

Learn new skills Day camps typically offer opportunities to learn and grow in areas that children may not be exposed to at school. Kids can pick camps that tailor to their interest, including a variety of sports, music, dance, theater, science, art, exploring nature, and more. If your child is drawn to a particular activity or subject, chances are there is a camp that would interest them. Kids who are not particularly drawn to academics will thrive in day camps because they are rewarded for their talents and interests.

Make new friends While you may sign your child up for a camp with a friend, they will meet many new people their age. Children gain confidence as they learn to talk to and work with people they have never played with previously. The opportunity to make friends with children that share similar interests and a fun new experience helps kids feel more comfortable when they are in new situations.

Take a break from the screen When children attend day camp, they get a much needed break from screen time. As video games, apps, TV, and tablets take more and more of our free time, getting the kids outside to play or having fun while learning new skills is a priceless benefit to parents. Who knows? When the kids come home from camp, they may realize they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need as much screen time as they thought they did.

Lifelong skills Day camp helps kids learn skills they can use for a lifetime, including problem solving and leadership skills, improved confidence, and an openness to new things. Depending on the camp, they may learn other skills that will stick with them. My kids learned how to start a fire and cook their own meal at local scouting camps. My daughter gained the confidence to get on stage in front of a room full of parents and peers at theater camp. My kids improved their skills at sport camps and they faced their fears while trying the camp obstacle course. These experiences will stay with your child throughout their life as they are faced with challenges and successes in the future. As you are deciding if day camp is right for your family, consider what type of camp your child would be most interested in. Choose something that you know they will be successful at and consider inviting a friend to sign up with your child. This can make them more comfortable that first day. Let your child help you choose the right camp and then let them know you think they will do great. rrp Sarah Lyons is a contributing writer.

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AS Art

Whether you want them to experience day or overnight camp, sports or fine arts, our listing has details on these and many more. It’s time to get your campers ready for summer fun!

2020

Guide

Fine Arts Abrakadoodle Summer Art Camps and Classes ad on page 18

Abrakadoodle provides a dynamic learning environment for art education that actively sparks the student’s imagination while developing new skills. Abrakadoodle camp programs immerse kids in design, exploration, creativity, planning and problem solving in an environment that is packed with art activities that kids love! As kids unleash their creative potential, they will use a wide variety of art materials to make original creations, experiment and problem-solve with inspiring activities and enjoy fun social interaction via collaborative art adventures.This summer, Abrakadoodle will be offering an outstanding series of camps at the two Abrakadoodle Pop-Up Art Studios. Each session has unique themes and fine arts lessons. Discounts offered for Early Registration. Daily rates are available. Visit our website, www. Abrakadoodle.com/AL01 for camps themes, online registration and our full list of summer offerings. Or contact us to customize your camp sessions. Location: Armory Learning Arts Center 3 Day- Half Day Camps June 2-4 9:00-12:00 (Ages 3-5 & 6-12) July 7-9 9:00-12:00 (Ages 3-5 & 6-12) Location: Pike Road Arts Center 3 Day: Half Day Camps June 16-18, 9:00-12:00 (Ages 3-5 & 6-12) Plus professional Face Painting and Arty Parties all year! (334) 265.5758 mcornwell@abrakadoodle.com abrakadoodle.com/AL01

Alabama Christian Academy’s Camp Eagle ad on page 78

4700 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36109 Eight One-week sessions from June 1-July 24. Camp Eagle is a FUN-tastic first class Christian day camp for ALL kids ages 5-completed 5th grade. Come experience a summer of fun at Camp Eagle. Every single day is filled with an exciting variety of activities. Your child will participate daily in recreational and cooperative games, River Region Parents I March 2020

arts and crafts, sports activities, academic components, praise time, swimming, free time field trips and more. Ages: 5 Years - Completed 5th Grade (334) 277-1985 dsanford@alabamachristian.org acacampeagle.org

Art Buzz Kids Camp ad on page 70

Wine and Design, 7732 Eastchase Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dates: June 8-12 and July 6-10, 9 am to 1 pm. Register Now!

(334) 245-3387 montgomery.al@wineanddesign.com www.wineanddesign.com/montgomeryal

ASF Acting Camps ad on page 67

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 1 Festival Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Camp Shakespeare fosters an appreciation for the works and words of William Shakespeare by providing opportunities for students aged 5 – 18 to explore theatre through imaginative play, movement, stage combat, storytelling, design, text analysis, and more! Camp Shakespeare Jr. (½ Day): June 8 – 12, Ages: 5-8 Camp Shakespeare Jr. (Full Day): June 15 – 19; June 22 – 26, Ages: 5-8 Camp Shakespeare: June 15 – 19; June 22 – 26, Ages: 9-12 Camp Shakespeare (2 Week): June 29 – July 10 (No camp July 3) Camp Shakespeare Extreme: June 8 – 12, Ages: 13-18 Broadway South builds young actors into triple threats through lessons in voice, dance, song interpretation, and acting. A final showcase will feature students in small and large group ensemble numbers and encourage students to build skills they’ll take into the future. Broadway South Jr.: July 13 – 17; July 20 – 24, Ages: 10-13 Broadway South: July 13 – 17; July 20 – 24, Ages: 14-18 Camp Registration will be open March 9. Ages: Ages 5-18 (334) 271.5393 bhuggins@asf.net asf.net/camp

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory Drama Camp ad on page 27, 29

5350 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Children’s Drama Camp: Disney’s Moana JR with camp dates being June 8-June 19, 1:00-4:00 each day except for the show day, which would begin at 9:00 with the show at 12:00. Ages: 1st-7th Grade (334) 272.7221 montgomerycatholic.org

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts ad on page 63

1 Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 “Almost” Summer Camp for Homeschoolers: Wednesday-Friday, May 20-22 from 1-4 p.m. Lil’ Campers Summer Camp: June 15-19 from 8:30-11:30am, Ages 5-7 Teen Summer Camp: June 15-19 from 1-4:30 p.m., Ages 13 & up Youth Summer Camp: June 22-26, July 13-17 or July 27-31 from 8:30-Noon or 1-4:30 p.m., Ages 8-12 Early drop-off and late pick-up are availableplease inquire during the registration process. Week-long. Half-day or All day. These unique full-filled camps offer small group instruction (10 students to 1 teacher ratio; maximum of 20 students) in drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking, and sculpture. Students also view and learn about famous works of art in a Museum setting. Each week a variety of art media and techniques are explored, such as drawing with pastels, charcoal, pen and ink, colored pencils, and markers; painting with watercolors, tempera, and acrylics; sculpting with clay and mixed media; and creating relief prints. Different themes, art projects, and techniques are offered each week, with a special student exhibition and reception for family members at the end of camp each Friday. Camp fee includes all art materials. The camps are also designed for working parents, as extended hours are offered. Camps are limited to 20 students and fill up quickly, so sign up today! Full day students MUST bring their own lunch. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 625.4365 bmorrison@mmfa.org mmfa.org

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Montgomery Music Project Summer Camp

ASU Tonea Stewart’s Performing Arts Camps

915 S. Jackson Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 TAPS: Ages 6-12, June 1-13 from 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; CAMP 3T: Ages 13-18, June 21-27; TTI: Ages 15-18, TBA; GIFTED: Ages 13-21, July 6-10 (Tues.-Weds.-Thurs.) Ages: Ages varies by camp

2416 W Cloverdale Park , Montgomery, AL 36104 June 22-26; Montgomery Music Project (MMP) offers an enriching day camp full of engaging music activities and classes for children of a variety of ages and abilities. Daily orchestra lessons are supplemented with group drumming, musicianship class, singing and more. Ages: Age varies by camp

(334) 229.6755 toneastewartcamps.com

Barb’s Summer Art Camp

Nancy’s Italian Ice, Sturbridge Shopping Center, Montgomery, AL 36116 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday’s, June 2-July 23 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15 for one class or $25 for two classes in one day. Plus FREE Ice treat!! Ages: Ages 3 and up (334) 546-2233 barbsonmulberry.com or www.facebook.com/barbsonmulberry.com

Jasmine Hill Art Gallery Kids Art Camp

110 Company Street, Wetumpka, AL Kids Art Camp, Dates to be announced. Art classes offered to ages 4 to adult. We explore all mediums: oil, acrylics, water color, sketching. Check us out on Facebook for more details about classes. Ages: Ages 4 to adult

(901) 603.0420 montgomerymusicproject@gmail.com montgomerysymphony.org

P’zazz Art Studio

138 W. Main St., Prattville, AL 36066 Weekly Classes and Camps Please check the website for dates and times. Ages: Age varies by camp

(334) 300-6793 Facebook under Jasmine Hill Art Gallery

(334) 354.1975 kaseyau@gmail.com pzazzart.com

M.E.O.W. Academy Camp Kids Grove

104 Mendel Pkwy., Montgomery, AL 36117 July 13-24 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A musical camp geared towards highlighting musical expression. Piano, Guitar, Voice, Percussion, Brass, and more. Culminating Performance July 24th. (Location to be announced) Ages: Ages 5-15

Paint & Clay Studio

4319 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36109 Paint your own pottery or canvas. Full and half day Summer camps. First week of June until school starts. Please call for more information or visit us on Facebook. Ages: Ages 5 & up

(334) 676.1449 M.E.O.W. www.meowacademy.net

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Stringfellows Summer Music Seminar

507 Columbus Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Stringfellows Summer Music Seminar, June 7-13 Ages: 7th-9th Grade (334) 240-4004 MontgomerySymphony.org

• Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills

2140 E University Dr, Ste. K, Auburn, AL 36830 About Rock Camp, Jr.: June 22-26, July 6-10 or July 20-24, 10 a.m. - Noon; Ages 6-7 About Rock Camp: June 1-5, 8 a.m.-Noon or 1 p.m.- 5 p.m.; Ages 8-11 About Rock Camp Pro: June 15-19, 8 a.m.-Noon or 1-5 p.m.; Ages 12-18 Camp Kazoo: June 8-11, June 29-July 2 or July 13-16; 9 a.m. -10:30 a.m.; Ages 3-5 Ages: Age varies by camp

• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping

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• Sports • Soccer • Basketball

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• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

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Alabama River Region Ballet ad on page 75

Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 34

Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104 June 8-July 9; The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering summer classes in Classical Ballet

River Region Parents I March 2020

(pre-ballet to the professional level), Modern, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Composition/Choreography and Broadway. Highlights of summer classes include a new class Broadway, classical ballet training and creative movement classes open to ages 3 to 8. Tutus and Tiaras Camp for ages 3-8 on June 1-5 from 9:30-12:30. Classes will include pre-ballet, creative movement, crafts, and story time. Performance on June 5th for family and friends. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 625.2590 alabamadancetheatre.com

Festival Plaza, 7981 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Fairytale Ballet Camp June 8 – 12, June 15- 19, 9am – 12pm Register now for the most exciting event for young dancers, ages 3 – 7 years old! Fairytale Ballet Camp will be held two weeks in June. Each week, the dancers will learn about one fairytale ballet, meet the princess ballerina, and participate in themed crafts and activities. Week 1 will be “Coppelia” and Week 2 will be “Cinderella”. Snacks will also be served daily. Both weeks will end with an instudio performance for family of the dancers. Dancers should wear pink tights, pink ballet slippers and leotard of choice. The cost for one week is $120 per child, 10% off second child. The cost for two weeks is $200 per child, 10% off second child. ARRB Summer Dance Camp (Ages 8-11) June 8 - 19, Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 12:00pm Alabama River Region Ballet School is excited to offer a two-week Summer Dance Camp for dancers, ages 8 – 10. Dancers will take daily classes in Ballet and Jazz, taught by ARRB’s School Director, Kyana Goodyear and ARRB Associate Artistic Director, Curran Tellalian. The dancers will also get to learn about Ballet History, Terminology, and learn about different classical ballets. Snacks will be provided. ARRB Summer Intensive Seminar July 6 – 17, Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 3:00pm Alabama River Region Ballet School is excited to offer a two-week Intensive Summer Seminar for intermediate and advanced students, ages 12 – 18 with a minimum one year of experience on pointe. Dancers will take daily classes in Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, Modern and Contemporary taught by some of the most talented guest artists and ARRB teachers. The Summer Intensive will include a repertory of classes that focuses on improving the dancers’ technique, as well as the opportunity to learn new choreography, and choreography from

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the classical repertory. Rehearsals will be under the direction of the ARRB faculty. At the end of the two-week seminar, family and friends are invited to attend a performance showcasing the dancers and the choreography of the guest artists. A 10% discount for early registration on our summer programs through the month of April. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 356-5460 riverregionballet@gmail.com riverregionballet.com

Armory Athletics ad on page 72

1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104 Armory Athletics is excited to offer our annual Summer Camp for ages 5 - 14 years old. This fun filled camp will be offered on a weekly basis from June 8 to July 31, Monday - Friday from 8am - 4:30pm. Each day is filled with a variety of exciting activities including sports and recreation, swimming, arts & crafts, and educational field trips! Parents, please provide lunches, swim wear & towel, concession money, and socks and closed toed shoes for field trips. Pre-registration for each week is required and enrollment is open now. Limited spaces available so register as soon as possible. Costs: $150/week, $35/day, $50 non-member registration fee, $25/week for early drop off at 7:30am, $5/day for early drop off at 7:30am, $25/week for late pickup at 5pm $5/day for late pick up at 5pm Ages: Ages 5-14 (334) 625.2789 armoryathletics1@gmail.com armoryathletics.com

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection ad on page 71

3370 Harrison Rd, Montgomery, AL 36109 Summer Fun Day-camp dates: Six one-week sessions. June 1 - July 10. Time: 8 a.m. until 5

p.m. (4-12 years). Summer dance classes for all ages beginning June in Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Baton and Tumbling. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 277.1098 Facebook: Tonya-Speeds-Dance-Connection

United Gymstars & Cheer ad on page 85

6100 Brewbaker Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36116 June 1- July 31 - 8 week Summer Camp, Weekly themed activities, gymnastics, trampoline, rope climbing, crafts and more. Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 5-13. Half Day offered for 4 year olds. Afternoon snack provided. Please bring a sack lunch. Build your own schedule. Flexible days and times. Call for rates. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 284.2244 unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

C.J.’S Dance Factory (home of the Prattville Ballet)

145 S. Court Street, Prattville , AL 36067 June 18th-July 23rd including: Princess Ballerina Camp- Ages 3-8, princess dance activities with a different princess each week! Power TumbleAges 5 and up, polish your tumble skills! Classical Ballet Technique- Intermediate/Advanced level. Camps will end with a performance! Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 467.8603 ballerinasrule@msn.com cjsdancefactory.com

Centre’ for Performing Arts

975 S. Memorial Drive, Prattville , AL 36067 June Intensive, Dates TBA from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Summer Dance Classes: Months of July-August, Ages 2 and up. Competition team auditions in the month of July. Diva Dance Camp (ages 5-12); Dates TBA. (334) 491.1192 centreforperformingarts.com

Montgomery Ballet

2101 Eastern Blvd. Ste 223, Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Intensive, June 15-26, Intermediate Level (ages 8-11) and Advanced Level (ages 11+); Fancy Nancy Inspired Dance Party Camp, July 13-16 from 2-4 p.m. (ages 3-6); JoJo Siwa Dance Party, July 13-16 from 2-4 p.m. (ages 6-10); Princess Ballerina Camp, June 3-6 from 9-10:30 a.m. for ages 2/3 year olds and 10:30Noon for age 4/5 year olds. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 409.0522 montgomeryballet.org

Day Camps Alabama Wildlife Federation ad on page 50

3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, AL 36054 Camp dates and sessions offered through June 1-August 7. Please visit our website for session dates and descriptions for each camp. All camp sessions are co-ed and full day, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; with the exception of Tadpole Camp. Tadpole Camp for ages 5 years. Nature Navigators for ages 6-7 years. Trail Blazers 4-day camp for ages 8-9. Heritage Explorers for ages 10-11. High Adventure for ages 12-15. Counselors in Training for ages 12-15. ARTventure for ages 8-12. Boys in Action (BIA) for boys ages 10-15. Fishing Fundamentals for ages 10-15. Gross Out Camp Sponsored by Fresh Air Family for ages 6-9. Busy Bee Camp for ages 10-15 Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 285.4550 alabamawildlife.org

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Gross Out Camp Takes Science Outdoors ad on page 50

Alabama Nature Center (Lanark), 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, AL 36054 July 20-24; Cost: $200 Yuck...if it’s gross we’ve got it! This award-winning science camp focuses on hands-on biology. Activities include: creek stomping expeditions for macro-invertebrates, meet-a-tree style scientific observation, and creativity such as making your own bird-poop paint (not from birds). Kids will meet live snakes in a reptile program. Learning has never been this much fun! Sponsored by Fresh Air Family. The camp combines science experiments, exploring, journaling, and natureinspired arts and crafts to address a variety of learning styles. Ages: Ages 6-9 (205) 540-6642 alabamawildlife.org or GrossOutCamp.org

The Montgomery Zoo

ad on page 74

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36110 Make summer vacation a wildlife adventure that you will never forget. Join kids of similar ages and interests for a fun-packed, educational experience themed around the animals of our planet. See daily live animal presentations; get up close and personal with some of the Educational animals at the Montgomery Zoo; enjoy scavenger hunts; craft time; classroom time; playtime, splash time, and games at our playground; train, Stingray Bay, and sky lift rides; participate in animal encounters with the giraffes, river otters, parakeets and our collection of petting zoo animals; see behind the scene tours and visits with our zookeepers, and other staff members. June 1-5, 11-12 year olds; June 8-12, 9-10 year

River Region Parents I March 2020

olds; June 15-19, 9-10 year olds; June 22-26, 7-8 year olds; July 6-10, 7-8 year olds; July 13-17, 5-6 year olds; July 20-24, 5-6 year olds. Cost: Non- members, $199 and Members, $179 . Full day includes lunch and two snacks. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 240.4900

montgomeryzoo.com

Trinity School Day Camps ad on page 3

Trinity Presbyterian School, 1700 East Trinity Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36106 Burgwin Studios Creative Camp: June 1-4 / rising 4th grade through rising 6th grade English Conversation Camp: June 8-11/ 3rd-5th grade My Doll and Me: June 8 & 9 /Kindergarten2nd grade My Doll and Me: June 10-11/ Kindergarten2nd grade Girls just want to Have Fun: June 8-11/ 3rd-5th grade I Wonder Why...Steam Activities Exploration Camp: June 8-12/ 1st-2nd grade I Wonder Why... Steam Activities Exploration Camp: June 15-19/ 1st-2nd grade English Conversation Camp: June 15-18/ 1st-2nd grade Under Construction Camp: June 16-18/ 3rd-5th grade Keepsakes and Cooking: June 16-18/ Kindergarten-2nd grade Blast into Second Grade: June 23-25/ rising 2nd graders Let’s Play with Food: June 22-25/ 3rd-5th grade Under the Sea: June 23-25/ rising 1st grade Auburn University Camp iCare/ Dates and ages to be announced soon. ***more to come Please refer to Trinity Presbyterian School website for more information at www.trinitywildcats.

com/summercamps Ages: Age varies by camp

(334) 213.2100 trinitywildcats.com

YMCA Prattville

ad on page 50

Smith Branch and East Bradford Branch, 600 East Main Street and 972 McQueen Smith Rd. S, Prattville, AL 36067 Summer Day Camp, girls and boys ages 6-12. Begins May 26–August 5. Mon. – Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Summer Day Camps are available at the Daniel Pratt, Main and Pine Level locations. For more information contact the YMCA Childcare Branch 358-1446. Gymnastics and Cheer Camp, Ages 5 ½ and up. Runs May 27th, 28th & 29th. For more information call YMCA Don M. Smith Branch, 365.8852. Super Summer Sport Camps, Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. YMCA Bradford Branch – 358-9622 Sports Camp Dates will be available May 1. Girls’ Volleyball Camp, Ages 8-12 Girls’ Basketball Camp, Ages 6-12 Boys’ Basketball Camp, Ages 6-12 Fishing Camp, Ages 8-16 Boys’ Baseball Camp, Ages 6-12 Girls Softball Camp, Ages 6-12 Soccer Camp, Ages 6-12 Outdoor Adventure Camp: Boys & Girls, ages 9-16. Members and Non-Members. Dates will be available May 1 Camp 2:22 (Jr. High): Begins May 26. MondayFriday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Boys and Girls entering 7th-9th grades. For more information Please contact the YMCA Bradford Branch at 358-9622. Ages: Age varies by camp Smith Branch, (334) 365.8852 East Bradford Branch, (334) 358.9622 prattvilleymca.org

www.riverregionparents.com

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Alabama State SKYCAP/IMSET 2020

Ralph David Abernathy Auditorium, 915 S. Jackson Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Session 1: June 1-19; Session 2: July 6-24 Orientation: May 2 from 9a.m. until 2p.m. on campus in Abernathy Auditorium; Half and fullday programs. Academics, computers, arts and fitness. A variety of courses to expand and peak your child’s imagination, sharpen academic skills and introduce them to physical fitness activities. Ages: 1st-12th Grade (334) 229.4686 or (334) 229.4317 alasu.edu/continuingeducation

Brain Pump Summer Camp

Auburn University Montgomery, Taylor Center, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dates To Be Announced. Get your child’s body moving and their brain stimulated all at the same time! Brain Pump is a children’s group exercise class developed by a Physical Therapist and Kinesiology professor that promotes gross and fine motor skills, core strengthening, coordination, crossing mid-line, balance, and proprioception (body awareness). The camp will also include activities working with different textures, art, music, and projects that offer a full sensory experience. Some of the fun activities include: obstacle courses, partner stations, group games, and art projects. Every activity done helps with organization and maturity of a child’s central nervous system that research shows can positively effect attention, learning and coordination. This is all performed in a fun, energetic setting, that seems more like playing than exercising. Ages: Ages 4-10 (334) 380.5920 neurokineticsolution.com

Camp Grandview — YMCA

4700 Camp Grandview Rd, Millbrook, AL 36054 Dates: May 26 - August 7 Length: Weekly basis; Located on 190-wooded acres, YMCA Camp

Grandview includes two beautiful lakes, a waterpark, horse barn, athletic fields, hiking trails, mud pits, disc golf, archery, riflery, Re Hall, and historic lodge. Transportation is available from Montgomery at no extra cost. Ages: Ages 5-15 (334) 290.9622 ymcamontgomery.org

Camp Sunshine for Boys

3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 July 20-24 Ages: Ages 6-11 (334) 262.2697 tukabatcheebsa.org

Camp Tukabatchee

3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 Boy Scout Day and resident camps. Week 1: June 7-13; Week 2: June 14-20; Week 3: June 21-27 Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 977.2688 tukabatcheebsa.org

Prattville Parks & Recreation Summer Youth Program

Doster Center, 424 S. Northington Street, Prattville , AL 36067 Begins May 26 until the Friday before school starts, 7a.m. until 6 p.m. Ages: K5-6th Grade (334) 361.3640 prattvilleal.gov

YMCA Cleveland Branch

1201 Rosa L. Parks Ave, Montgomery, AL 36108 10 weeks of Youth Specialty Camps, May 25 until August 7 Ages: Ages 3-12 (334) 265.0566 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA East Branch

3407 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery, AL 36109 10 weeks of Youth Specialty Camps, May 25 until August 7

Ages:Ages 5-13 (334) 272.3390 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Goodtimes

2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Camp Dates, May 25 until August 7. Ages: Ages 5-14 (334) 279-8666 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Kershaw

2225 West Fairview Ave, Montgomery, AL 36108 Summer Camp Dates, May 25 until August 7 Ages: Ages 5-12 (334) 265.1433 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Emory Folmar Soccer Complex

300 Brown Springs Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 The YMCA of Greater Montgomery is inspiring youth by teaching the fundamentals of the game of soccer. These skills will assist in the overall development of the youth that are participating. They will learn how to pass, shoot, one-touch, throw -in, free kick, penalty kick, goal keeping, offense and defense. Participants will have comprehension of the rules and terminology of the game of soccer. Please check our website for Soccer Camp dates and details. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 396.9754 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Wetumpka

200 Red Eagle Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Summer Camp Dates, May 25- August 7. Please call for more information on times and fees. Ages: Ages 5-12 (334) 567-8282 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Wilson

1445 New Park Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Camp Dates, May 25- August 7. Please call for more information on times and fees. Ages: Ages 5-12 (334) 356.8471 ymcamontgomery.org

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Education/Science/ Technology EdTech Academy ad on page 18

2101 Eastern Blvd, Suite 420, Montgomery, AL Robotics, Game Design, Lego Challenges, and STEM Activities. Small groups (20 max.) Campers will have screen time and time to do hands-on activities. Each Camp is Weekly (Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm). Half day camps offered. Ages: Ages 8-12 (334) 296.2393 or (334) 593.1106 info@edtechcamp.com edtechcamp.com

Mathnasium Summer Power Math Workout Programs ad on page 73

3453 Malcolm Drive (Taylor Road at Billingsley Place Promenade), Montgomery, AL 36117 Prevent the “summer slide”! Solidify foundations, improve understanding, and get ahead on next year’s concepts in a fun, low-pressure environment. Hours : Sunday 2-4, Monday and Wednesday 3:30-7:30, Tuesday and Thursday 11:30-4:30, Friday and Saturday Closed Ages: 2nd-12th Grade (334) 356.1570 mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery

Montgomery Catholic Prep School Girls Who Code Camp ad on page 27, 29

5350 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 July 6-9 from 8 am to noon each day - grades 1-3

River Region Parents I March 2020

July 13-16 from 8 am to noon each day - grades 4-8. This camp will be an introduction to coding using AppInventor and Scratch. Girls will learn how to code mobile apps, animation, and even simple video games. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 272.7221 montgomerycatholic.org

Sylvan Individualized Tutoring Camp ad on page 32

4240 Lomac Street, Montgomery, AL 36106 5 Week Summer Session, May 26-July30 Choose your 5 week session or come for the whole summer. 2 hour session twice a week. Monday-Thursday from 9:30-11:30, 1:30-3:30 and 4:30-6:30. $120 per week with a $95 Registration fee and 50% Assessment Testing for New Students.

5 Week Individualized ACT Prep, May 26July30; $600 with a $95 Registration fee. This 5-week course begins with a pre-test and has many date and time options available. Choose 2/2 hours sessions for 5 weeks. We build this individualized course using your student’s pre-test analysis and observations. Course includes: course booklet, additional practice tests, test taking strategies, intense content review. 6 Week Full Access ACT Prep with SylvanPrep.com, May 26-July 30; $795/NO registration fee. This 6-week course begins with a pre-test and has many date and time options available. Choose 2/2 hours sessions for 6 weeks. We build this individualized course using your student’s pre-test analysis and observations. Course includes: course booklet, additional practice tests, test taking strategies, intense content review AND unlimited SylvanPrep.com access.

(334) 262.0043 CD@montgomerysylvan.com sylvanlearning.com/Montgomery

Sylvan Summer ACT Prep Camps

ACT Bootcamp

ad on page 32

4240 Lomac Street, Montgomery, AL 36106 4-Day ACT Prep Camp, June 8-11 and July 13-16 from 1:30-5:30; $249/No registration This 4-day course is designed to prepare for the Summer ACT test dates. The class will be broken down into subject focused sessions: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each session will begin with a subject specific pretest. Focusing on one subject per session allows for an in-depth analysis of strategies and content. Course booklet and practice tests provided.

Mountain View Baptist Church, 1025 Rifle Range Rd, Wetumpka, AL 36093 Lee Gonet’s intensive prep class includes book, practice tests, handouts, water, snacks, and 40 hours of testing and instruction. Cost: $250, New Student and $200, returning student. Dates: Sat, July 11, 8:00-12:00: College Application & Scholarship Workshop. Open to the public. Sat, July 11, 1:00-5:00: Subject Review & Test Strategies; Sunday, July 12, No Classes Mon-Thurs, July 13-16, 8:00-5:00: Test-Review-Teach-Repeat Ages: Ages 14 to adult (334) 524.7371

leestestprep.com

www.riverregionparents.com

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Camp Invention

Bear Exploration Center, 2525 Churchill Drive, Montgomery, AL 36111 Where STEM concepts come to life. Dates: May 26-29 from 8:00 to 4:00; $250. Ages: K-6th Grade campinvention@invent.org campinvention.org

Science Matters Camp

Auburn University, 249 Sciences Center, Auburn, AL 36849 June 1-July 24. Science Matters is a summer enrichment program for elementary students offering a supercharged science experience. Camp sessions broken down by 1st/2nd, 3rd/4th, 5th/6th and 7th/8th graders. Ages: Age varies by camp

(334) 844.5769 auburn.edu/cosam/departments/ outreach/programs

SCORE 2020

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 June 8-July 24; Six - one week sessions for Grades 3rd-9th. Age varies by camp. Camps will cover Robotics, Engineering, Design, 3D Design and 3D Printing while solving everyday problems and the Foundations for STEM through various robotics platforms. Ages: Age varies by camp

(334) 844.8125 jss007@auburn.edu scoreau.org

Snapology

Wetumpka, AL Take time off your hands while your kids play, learn, and make life long friends. We offer amazing themes for our camps and workshops year-round including spring break camps and summer camps, Robotics and STEM Camped offered during the summer. Please call or visit our website or on Facebook under Snapology of the River Region. Ages: Ages 6-14 (334) 318.2824 snapology.com

Equestrian Camps Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 69

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 Details under Overnight Camps. (800) 882.0722 riverviewcamp.com

Galloping Gang 4-H Horse Club

Meet 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:30. (334) 567.6301 laurie.weldon@auburn.edu

MANE’s Unified Summer Camp

3699 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road, AL 36064 MANE’s Unified Summer Camp will be held from 8:30 to 12pm Tuesday through Friday the weeks of July 7-10, July 14-17, and July 21-24. Riders must be between the ages of 4-14. Ages: Ages 4-14 (334) 213.0909 maneweb.org

Martial Arts Docarmo’s Summer Karate Camp

3447 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 Summer Day Camp Dates: June15-19 and July 6-10. Please visit our website or call for more information. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 220.5835 trytkdfree.com

Camp NextGen at NextGen Martial Arts in Prattville 698 Old Farm Lane, Prattville , AL 36066 Ages: Age varies by camp

Todd Newsom (334) 590-3759 todd@nextgenmartialarts.com nextgenmartialarts.com

Family Karate Center

Peppertree Shopping Center, 8159 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Kids Karate camp for summer program offered every day. Ages 2 years old and up. Ages:Ages 2+ (334) 277.4911

Overnight Camps Adventures in Math and Science ad on page 55

Alabama School of Math and Science, 1255 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36604 Don’t waste your summer! Spend it at The Adventures in Math and Science summer camp in Mobile, AL. Learn while you have fun! Kayak Mobile Bay. Design a maze. Build a smart phone app. Solve a crime. Prepare for the ACT. Learn how to make jewelry. Build a robot. Launch a rocket, and much more! There is something for everyone! Who can enroll? Open to students entering the 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grades. Non-Alabama residents are also eligible to apply. This year, AIMS will run for three sessions. Students can sign up for one, two, or three weeks. Session 1 (June 1-5), Session 2 (June 8-12), and Session 3 (June 15-19) are all overnight or day camps. Overnight Camp is $395 per week (all inclusive - meals, classes, activities, and lodging). The weekend stay between Week 1-2 or Week 2-3 are an additional $195, which includes trip to a water park (weather permitting) and other fun activities. A $25 discount will apply (one per student) if application and all applicable forms are received by April 1. Ages: 6th-10th Grade (251) 441.2152 admissions@asms.net asms.net

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Camp Chandler - YMCA ad on page 75

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Scouts (5-8 Year Olds):4 Sessions- May 31June2, June 21-23, July 12-14 and July 19-21 Explorer Program (7-9 Year Olds):4 SessionsJune 3-5, June 24-26; July 15-17 and July 22-24 Rangers (8-14 Year Olds): 8 Sessions- May 31June 5, June 7-12, July 14-19, July 21-26, June 28-July 3, July 5-10, July 12-17 and July 19-24. Specialty Camps: Venture, Extreme, Wranglers, Fishing and Pioneers (10-14 years old): 7 Sessions- June 7-12, July 14-19, July 21-26, June 28-July 3, July 5-10, July 12-17 and July 19-24 LIT’s Leaders in Training (15 Year Olds): 2 Sessions- June 7-26 and July 5-24 Camp Chandler Day Camp (ages 5-12) 5 Sessions- June 8-12, June 15-19,June 2226,June 29-July 3, July 6-10, July 13-17, July 20-24 and July 27-31 Ages: Age varies by camp

(334) 269.4362 campchandler@mcamontgomery.org campchandler.org

Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 69

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 Dates: Short Term 1-week sessions – (ages 6-12) May 31-July 31, Long Term 2-week sessions – (ages 6-16) June 7 – July 31. Customized Combination of 2-9 weeks. Other: ACA accredited. Free video and catalog. Non-denominational Christian camp. More than 15 activity choices available, including riding, climbing tower and ropes course. New pool and new tennis courts. Ages: 6-16, varies by camp (800) 882.0722 riverviewcamp.com

Adventure Treks

1899 Berea Church Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Pacific Northwest, British Columbia, Yellowstone,

River Region Parents I March 2020

California, Ultimate Northwest, Alaska, and Leadership Summit. Each 13–30 day Adventure includes a wide variety of exciting wilderness activities such as rock climbing, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, mountain biking, canoeing, mountaineering, and backpacking in some of the most breathtaking scenery in western. Ages: Ages 12-18 (888) 954.5555 info@adventuretreks.com adventuretreks.com

All Arts & Sciences Camp

5900 Summit Ave. Ste. 201, Greensboro, NC 27214 Get in-depth, hands on instruction in the arts, sciences, and technology, July 12-17; Rates: $870 Ages: Ages 7-15 (866) 334.2255 allarts@uncg.edu allarts.uncg.edu

Alpine Camp for Boys

P. O. Box 297, Mentone, AL 35984 Junior Camp: (Grades 1-5) May 26-June 3; (Grades 2-9) First Term: June 5-30; (Grades 2-9) Second Term: July 3-28. Ages: Age varies by camp (256) 634.4404 summer@alpinecamp.com alpinecamp.com

Camp Alamisco

1771 Camp Alamisco, Dadeville, AL 36853 Aquatics Camp, June 14-21, ages 13-17 Adventure Camp, June 14-21, ages 7-11. Junior Camp, June 7-14, ages 10-13. Teen Camp, May 31-June 7, ages 12-16. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 272.7493 Alamiscocamp@gmail.com campalamisco.org

Camp Coleman

4010 Camp Coleman Rd, Camp Coleman, AL 35173 Day Camp (Grades 1-7): June1-5, June 8-12, June 15-19 and June22-26; Resident camp

(Ages 6-14): June 7-12, 14-19, 21-26. There is the opportunity for Counselors in Training, 11th and 12th grades in the fall. Ages:Age varies by camp

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(256) 365.2970 or (800) 734.4541 girlscoutsnca.org

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014 Eight different sessions ranging in many different age groups. Camp dates begin on Sunday, May 31 -July 25. Ages 6-16. Ages: Ages 6-16 (800) 852.6729 cinfo@campcosby.org www.campcosby.org

Camp Hollymont for Girls

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Camp Juliette Low

(770) 862.2169 info@cjl.org cjl.org

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321 Camp Juliette Low Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731 Dates: 6/7 – 8/1; Length: 1, 2, & 3 weeks; Girls only. Ages: Ages 7-17, Girls

Camp Kiwanis

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2365 Camp Kiwanis Road, Eclectic, AL 36024 Sessions available throughout the summer. Please check our website for dates. Ages: 2nd-12th Grade

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(256) 634.4066 info@camplaney.com camplaney.com

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www.riverregionparents.com

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Camp Mac Summer Camp for Boys and Girls

2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268 Dates: Junior Term (1st-2nd) June 2-6; (2nd-5th grade) June2-11; (3rd – 8th grade) June 14-July 10 and July 13-Aug. 1. Ages: 1st-8th Grade (256) 362.7449 office@campmac.com campmac.com

Camp Marannook

10425 Veterans Mem Pkwy., Lafayette, AL 36862 May 31-July 24; Residential and Day Camps. Ages: 1st-10th Grade (334) 864.7504 marannook.org

Camp Merri Mac

1123 Montreat Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 June 8-August 13; Length:1 (starter camp for first time campers), 2, 3, 4, & 5 weeks Ages: Grades 1st-11th, Girls

(828) 669.8766 mail@merri-mac.com merri-mac.com

Camp Sailaway, Girl Scout Camp

2365 Kamp Kiwanis Road, Eclectic, AL 36024 2 Sessions depending on skill. Dates: June 21July 3. Girls must be proficient swimmers. Ages: 6th-12th Grade, Girls

Camp Skyline Ranch

Camp Timberlake

(800) 239.6636 girlscoutssa.org

(800) 448.9279 info@campskyline.com campskyline.com

(828) 669.8766 info@camptimberlake.com camptimberlake.com

Camp Sea Gull and Camp Seafarer

Camp Stanislaus

Camp Trico

(252) 249.1111 or (252) 249.1212 seagull-seafarer.org

(228) 467.9057 camp@ststan.com campstanislaus.com

(800) 734.4541 girlscoutsnca.org

(800) 239.6636 girlscoutssa.org

Camp Scoutshire Woods, Girl Scout Camp 6051 Scoutshire Camp, Citronelle, AL 36522 Sessions begin June 7-June 19. Ages: Age varies by camp

218 Sea Gull Landing, Arapahoe, NC 28510 6/14 – 8/14; Length: 1, 2, & 4 week session; Ages: Ages 6-16

4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984 June 7-July 31, Four 2 wk. sessions; Three 1 wk. Sessions. Ages: Ages 6-16, Girls

304 South Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 Dates: 6/7 – 7/10; Length: 1-4 week sessions. Ages: Ages 8-15, Boys

1123 Montreat Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 June 8-August 13; Length:1 (starter camp for first time campers), 2, 3, 4, & 5 weeks Ages: Grades 1st-11th, Boys

315 Trico Drive, Guntersville, AL 35967 2 Resident Camp sessions: July 19-24 and July 26-31 Ages: Grades 1st-11th

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Camp Victory

363 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477 Weekly sessions beginning, June 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; July 25; coed camp. Air conditioned cabins. $275 per week Ages: 2nd-12th Grade (334) 898.7948 office@campvictoryal.org campvictoryal.org

Camp Widjiwagan

3088 Smith Springs Road, Antioch, TN 37013 Dates: 5/25-8/5: Ten sessions. Summer Camp for Boys and Girls. Ages: Ages 7-15 (615) 360.2267 campwidji.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731 Dates: 5/31-7/31: Nine one-week sessions and Four 2-week sessions. Summer Camp for Boys and Girls. Ages: Ages 6-14 (706) 398.0739 campwoodmont.com

Cub Camp

3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 Session 1: June 6-7 Ages: Grades 1st-5th (800) 977.2688 tukabatcheebsa.org

Cub Scout Webelos Resident Camp, Camp Hobbs

3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 Session 1: June 11-14; Session 2: June 18-21 Ages:Grades 1st-5th (800) 977.2688 tukabatcheebsa.org

Experiment in International Living

1015 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 June 27-July 31. Must have completed 9th grade. 3, 4 or 5-week programs. Foreign language studies a prerequisite for most sessions. Ages: 10th-12th Grade (800) 345.2929 experiment.org

River Region Parents I March 2020

Falling Creek Camp for Boys

North Carolina Outward Bound

U.S

(828) 692.0262 fallingcreek.com

(888) 756.2627 challenge@ncobs.org ncoutwardbound.com

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Ponderosa Bible Camp

(256) 634.4397 ponderosabiblecamp.com

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P.O. Box 98, Tuxedo, NC 28784 1 week sessions to 4 week sessions Camp Dates: June 7-August 14. Ages: 1st-12th Grade, Boys

5326 Lake Forest Road, Macon, MS 39341 Sessions beginning May 23 through Aug.2. Summer camp experience for children (ages 7-12) and teenagers (ages 11-18). There are twelve exciting camp sessions available from which to choose. Ages: Age varies by camp (662) 726.5052 info@lakeforestranch.com lakeforestranch.com

McWane Science Center Summer Camp

200 19th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203 June 1-July 31. Eight one-week sessions for each age level. Students entering 1st through 7th grade will be full day camps. Pre K-Kindergarten will remain half day camps. Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 714.8300 mcwane.org

Moondance Adventures

209 10th Ave. S, Ste. 322, Nashville, TN 37203 Dates: 6/9 - 7/31; Length: 14, 17, 21, 23, 24 days. Ages: Ages 12-18 (800) 832.5229 info@moondanceadeventures.com moondanceadventures.com

Museum Expedition Archaeology Camp

P.O. Box 870340, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Discover Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse natural history by participating in the Annual Museum Expedition Camp! Dates TBA Ages: Grades 6th-12th, Varies by camp (205) 348.7550 museum.expedition@ua.edu amnh.ua.edu

2582 Riceville Road, Asheville, NC 28805 Year Round Programs; Length: 4-78 days; Ages: Ages 14+

1018 County Road, Mentone, AL 35984 Dates: 6/14- 7/26; Length: One week; and Leadership Training Program for 11th and 12th graders. Ages: Age varies by camp

Rising Star, Savannah College of Art & Design

P.O. Box 2072, Savannah, GA 31402 Savannah Dates: June 20-July 24, Atlanta Dates: June 20-July 24. Open to students who completed junior year of high school. Ages: Rising 12th Grade (800) 869.7223 and Atlanta, GA; (877) 722.3285 contact@scad.edu scad.edu/risingstar

Sail Caribbean

256 Main Street, STE# 1203, Northport, NY 11768 June 28-Aug. 23. Length: Programs range from 14 to 21 days Ages: 11-18+ (800) 321.0994 bvi_office1@sailcaribbean.com sailcaribbean.com

Twin Lakes Camp

155 Milner Road, Florence, MS 39073 Eight one-week sessions available from June 7-July 23. Ages: Ages 6-12 (601) 845.6858 twinlakescamp.org

www.riverregionparents.com

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U.S. Space Camp and Aviation Challenge One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805 Dates: Runs year round; Summer Program is May -August, call for pricing. Ages: Ages 9 and up (800) 637.7223 spacecamp.com

YMCA Camp Ocoee

111 YMCA Drive, Ocoee, TN 37361 May 31-August 1. Ages: Ranger 7-15; Teen Leadership and Specialty Camps, 16-17. Ages: Age varies by camp (423) 338.5588 ocoee@ix.netcom.com campocoee.com.

Special Needs Camp ASCCA-Easter Seals

Camp ASCCA, 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson Gap, AL 36861 Seven 1-week sessions. Ages 6 and up. Camps begin June 28-August 14. Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 8 43.2267 info@campascca.org campascca.org

Camp Seale Harris

Camp ASCCA, 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson Gap, AL 36861 Junior Camp (ages 6 - 13), June 7-12; Senior Camp (ages 12 - 18), May 30-June 5; Coastal Camp (ages 10-18), July 19-24 Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 402.0415 info@campsealeharris.org campsealeharris.org

Camp Wheeze-Away

Camp Chandler, 1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Camp Wheeze-Away will be held at YMCA Camp

Chandler, May 24-29. Ages: Ages 8-12

dates to be announced. Ages: Ages 7-14

Sports Camps

Macon East Academy Sports Camps

Alabama Christian Academy Basketball Camp

15396 Vaughn Road, Cecil, AL 36013 Dates to be announced. Camps include Elementary baseball, soccer, volleyball, basketball and football. All camps open to the public. Ages: Age varies by camp

(334) 244.7811 brendabasnight@yahoo.com ymca.net

ad on page 78

4700 Wares ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36109 Dates: TBA; Please call for more information. (334) 277.1985 alabamachristian.org

Faulkner Baseball Camps ad on page 72

Faulkner University, 5345 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, AL 36109 Instruction from professional players. June 8-11 (Youth Session I)$125 June 15-19 (Youth Session II) $125 All-Star Warm up Camp: June 29-July 2 (Session III is from 8-11:30 am each day) costs is $85. Ages: Ages 6-17 We are also having a spring Youth (ages 6-13) hitting and pitching one day camp, April 26, 1 pm to 4:30 pm. One day camp: $40 pitching/hitting (334) 386.7148 faulkner.edu

FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal ad on page 71

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36117 (indoor/air conditioned) Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach - Masters Phy. Ed.) Camp 1: May 25-29 and 4 more weeks of camp

(334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com

ad on page 45

(334) 277.6566 maconeast.net

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory Summer Camps ad on page 27, 29

5350 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 June 17-19 - Baseball Week of June 1- Wrestling Week of June 1- Soccer Week of June 8- Basketball Week of June 15- Volleyball Week of June 22- Softball Week of July 20- Tennis Week of July 27- Football Week of July 27- Cheer Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 272.7221 montgomerycatholic.org

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Tennis Camps ad on page 52

500 Anderson Street, Montgomery, AL 36107 Dates and Class times to be announced. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com oconnortenniscenter.com

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Saint James School Sports Camps ad on page 1

6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Saint James School will continue its summer tradition of providing a variety of sports and cheerleader camps for young people. Printed information will be available soon and will include cost, age groups and other pertinent information. Call Jerry Browning, athletic director, or the individual coaches at (334) 277.8033, ext. 145. Keith Luckey Baseball Camp; 1st -5th grade, June 1-3 from 9 a.m. - Noon. Keith Luckey Baseball Camp; 6th grade and above, June 1-3 from 1-4 p.m.; Baseball Pitching Clinic for 5th grade and up, June 4, 9a.m. - Noon. Katie Barton Girls Basketball Camp for 2nd – 8th, June 1-4, 9 a.m. -Noon; Nigel Card Boys Basketball Camp for 4th – 8th grade, June 8-11, 9 a.m.-Noon; Mark Hall Softball Camp for 2nd – 8th grade, June 15-18, 9 a.m.-Noon; Jeff Corley Wrestling Camp for 1st-5th grade and 6th-12th grade, June 23-25, 8-10 a.m. for Grades 1st-5th and 10 a.m.-12 p.m. for Grades 6th-12th; Karen Lee Volleyball Camp for 3rd - 8th grade, July 6-8, 9 a.m.-Noon; Saint James Youth Cheerleader Camp for Pre-K3 – 6th grade, July 20-23, 9 a.m.-Noon; Jimmy Perry Boys Football Camp, Ages 5-13, July 27-29, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 277.8033, ext. 145 stjweb.org

Trinity Sports Camps ad on page 3

1700 E. Trinity Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36106 Baseball Camp June 1-3 / Kindergarten through 6th grade

Lady Wildcats Basketball June 1-4/ 2nd-5th grade Basketball Camp (boys) June 22-25/ 3rd-8th grade Dance Camp July 27 & 28/ K3-5th grade Cheer Camp July 29 & 30/ K3-5th grade Softball Camp June 9-11/ 1st-8th grade Volleyball Camp May 19 & 20 / 2nd-5th grade. ***more to come Please refer to Trinity Presbyterian School website for more information at www.trinitywildcats. com/summercamps. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 213.2100 trinitywildcats.com

Auburn Tiger Football Camps

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 Camp Dates: June 1-July 18. Thirteen themed sessions based on skill set. Ages: Grades 3rd-12th, Age varies by camp auburnfootballcamps.com

Auburn Tiger Junior Golf Camp

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 June 9-12; This camp will benefit all ages and all skill levels from beginner to advanced. Ages: Ages 9-18 (334) 844.9657 auburntigergolfcamps.com

Auburn Tiger Softball Camp

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 June 15-18 Ages: Ages 12-19 (334) 844.9515 auburntigers.com

Auburn Tiger Swim Camp

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 26849 Power & Speed Day Camp – Session I: May2930, Session II: July 11-12; Overnight Camp – Session I: May31-June 4, Session II: June 7-11, Session III: July 6-10. Ages: Ages 10-18

auswimcamps@gmail.com auburnswimcamps.com

Auburn University Baseball Camps

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 Team Camp, TBA; Pitcher/Catching/Infield Camp, TBA; Youth Camp, (ages 7-12) TBA; High school Showcase Camp, TBA Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.4975 auburntigersbaseballcamp.com

Auburn Women’s Soccer Camps

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 June Day Camp, June 8-11 (ages 5-12); Auburn Soccer Goalkeeper and Skills Academy, June 12-13 (ages 11-18) ; Auburn Soccer June Residential Camp, June 14-17 ( Girls ages 9-18); Elite Camp, July 10-12, (Girls ages 13-18); Auburn Soccer July Residential Camp, July 1215 (ages 9-15) Ages: Age varies by camp

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Auburn Volleyball Camp

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 8 sessions based on skill set. June 27-July 19. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.9637 auburntigers.com

AUM Sports Camps

7400 East Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dates to be announced in the spring. Please check our website for Camp information. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 244.3000 aumathletics.com

Huntingdon College Baseball Camps

1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106 Dates to be announced. 1st session- High School Showcase Skills Camp, Grades 9-12 2nd session- Fundamentals Camp, ages 5-15 Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 833.4501 huntingdonhawks.com

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Huntingdon College Basketball Camps

1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106 Variety of Basketball Camps, Dates to be announced. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 833.4399 huntingdonhawks.com

Huntingdon College Soccer I.D. Camp

1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106 Soccer I.D. Camp (Grades 9th-12th), June 20, 8:45 until 3 p.m. Ages: Grades 9th-12th (334) 833.4316 hchawkssoccercamps.com

Huntingdon College Summer Youth Academy for Soccer

1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106 Summer Youth Academy (Ages 5-13), July 13-17, 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. Ages: Ages 5-13 (334) 833-4316 hchawkssoccercamps.com

McCallie Sports Camp

500 Dodds Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404 Length: Three 2-week sessions MSC Session I: Monday, June 8-20; MSC Session II: Monday, June 22-July 4; MSC Session III: Monday, July 6-18. Ages: Ages 9-15 (800) 672.2267 mccallie.org

University of Alabama Baseball Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Dates to be announced. Four themed sessions. Age ranges for these camps are K-12th grade. 1,2,3 and overnight camps available. Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 348.8849 rolltide.com

University of Alabama Football Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 The University of Alabama has a wide selection of Football camps during the months of June and July. Age ranges for these camps are K-12th grade. Ages: Age varies by camp

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

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

AISA Blue Ribbon School

(205) 348.0808 rolltide.com

University of Alabama Men’s Basketball Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 June 4-July 24. Wide selection of Basketball camps. Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 348.4111 rolltide.com

University of Alabama Men’s Golf Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 June 7-11; Teaches campers the proper fundamentals through golf instruction. Ages: Ages 10-18 (662) 418.4442 rolltide.com

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

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

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

University of Alabama Soccer Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Three sessions based on skill. July 23-26 Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 933.BAMA rolltide.com

University of Alabama Softball Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Two Summer Camp Sessions: June 15-17 and June 17-19. Camp will cover all defensive positions. Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 933.BAMA alabamasoftballcamp.com

University of Alabama Women’s Basketball Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Dates to be announced. Ages: Grades 9th-12th (205) 348.6164 rolltide.com

Helpful Camp Websites: www.kidscamps.com www.acacamps.org

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FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal Spring Break Camp

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Spring Break Camp

ad on page 71

ad on page 67

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36117 March 16-20; Cost: Half Days $125/week or Full Days $195/week Most Advanced Youth Development Methodology Worldwide! Come improve your technique and have fun the Brazilian way. Space is limited. All ages.

1 Festival Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Grades 4-7; March 16-20 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $300 Grades 8-12; March 16-20 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $300 During this week long camp, students will devise their own play based on the beloved Grimm’s fairy tale, Snow White. All students will work together to write, design, and star in their new interpretation of the classic story. At the end of the week, campers will present their play in a final performance.

(334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com

United Gymstars and Cheer Spring Break Camp

(334) 271.5353 info@asf.net asf.net

ad on page 85

6100 Brewbaker Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36116 March 16-20; 7:30-5:30 p.m. $50 full day /$30 half-day , $200 full day week/$120 half-day week. Please bring a snack and a lunch. Ages: 5-12

Ed Tech Academy Spring Break Camp ad on page 18

2101 Eastern Blvd, Suite 420, Montgomery, AL Located across from Home Depot in the Courtyard Shopping Center March 16-20, Ages 3rd grade and up. Full Day S.T.E.M. and Coding camps from 8 am to 3 pm. Call or text (334) 296.2393 www.edtechacademy.org

(334) 284.2244 gym@unitedgymstarsandcheer.com unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Docarmo’s Spring Break Camp

3447 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 March 16-20. At Docarmo’s Taekwondo, all of our camp students are not only learning great character benefits, but also have fun obstacle courses, great camp theme challenges, and awesome games to be involved in. There are accomplishments every day. Ages: 6 years and up

Expedition Lanark Spring Break Camp ad on page 59

(334) 220.5835 docarmotkd@yahoo.com trytkdfree.com

3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, AL 36054 March 16-20 and March 23-27, Ages: 6-12 years 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (early drop-off & aftercare available) Don’t miss out on the River Region’s most unique outdoor camp! We always have lots of fun activities planned and with our NaturePlex facility, we are prepared to have fun in any type of weather! Some activities include fishing, canoeing, birding with binoculars, and using game cameras with track stations to see types of wildlife we have on the property! We will also put some waders on to catch fish, frogs, and tadpoles at the aquatic center! This year we will add a few new activities like checking and maintaining wood duck boxes on the property as well as making tree frog houses to catch tree frogs. COST: $125/week. Aftercare available for $25/week (7:30-8 a.m. drop off & 4-6 p.m. pick up). Campers need to bring their own lunch and drink. Children will get dirty and might get wet, too!

Family Karate Center Spring Break Camp

Peppertree Shopping Center, 8159 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 Through the months of March and April. The camp will teach Stranger Danger Child Abduction Prevention and Awareness Programs, The Ask Mom First Program (Child Molestation Prevention), Bully Busters program and more. Also included in the Kids Karate Camp will be beginning and advanced karate skills. Ages: 2 years and up (334) 277.4911

YMCA Spring Break Basketball Camp

Midtown YMCA, 3455 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 March 16-19 from 8-noon; Ages: 8-15 years

(334) 262.6411 jdailey@ymcamontgomery.org ymcamontgomery.org

(334) 285.4550 awf@alabamawildlife.org alabamawildlife.org

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Sonic the Hedgehog

Brahms: The Boy II

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: CViolence: BSexual Content: A Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: BEver since he was little, Sonic (Ben Schwartz) has been running from anyone who tries to catch him. Hiding out on Earth, the extraterrestrial hedgehog has been feeling lonely, and his sadness triggers an outburst in the form of a massive blue energy ball that wipes out the power in the small town of Green Hills. Not surprisingly, this draws the attention of the federal government, which sends the nefarious Doctor Ivo Robotnik (Jim Carrey) to investigate. Sonic teams up with the local sheriff, Tom Wachowski (James Marsden) to make a run for it, but along the way, realizes his friends might be more important. For a movie about a supersonic hedgehog, this movie drags like it’s stuck in super glue. Consumed by the titular rodent’s near constant (and highly aggravating) patter and narration, the movie subjects you to one hackneyed Hallmark moment after another until you’re lying on the sticky floor and begging for death. Oddly, these clichés are actually a benefit in disguise. Since you’ve seen basically everything here in other movies, this one just evaporates from your mind as you walk out of the theater, leaving behind an oily mental film of resentment and irritation which I suspect will clear up by morning. That’s actually the kindest thing I can say about Sonic the Hedgehog: you probably won’t ever think about it again. Despite its boredom-inducing superpowers, Sonic is otherwise innocuous. There are few content concerns - in fact, I think this has the fewest profanities of any movie I’ve seen this year, with six terms of deity and one use of “hell”. But, honestly, suffering through Sonic isn’t one of the essential trials of parenting and you can give this one a pass without any guilt at all.

Brahms: The Boy II MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: CSexual Content: A Profanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: B Liza (Katie Holmes) and Sean (Owain Yeoman) have a pleasant life with their son, Jude (Christopher Convery), in their lovely London home. But when a terrifying burglary leaves Liza injured and shaken, and Jude refusing to say a word to anyone, Sean suggests that they get out of town and decompress in the country. On a walk in the woods, Jude stumbles across a buried doll, with a strange face, and an even stranger list of rules which “he” expects to be followed. There is a glut of “cursed kid/imaginary friend/cursed doll” movies, and they’re all basically interchangeable. This one is absolutely made from the same mold. It’s functionally a “color-by-numbers” of horror movie clichés. So the real question with most horror movies: is this suitable for a large group of overly-loud teenagers with nothing better to do on a Friday night (except that homework you keep trying to get them to do)? Unfortunately, yes. There is almost no seriously objectionable content. Even the violence, which sounds pretty bad when written down, mostly happens just off-screen or is non-fatal in nature. It’s also devastatingly boring, but loud teenagers make their own fun. As brainless entertainment, you could do worse. Of course, for my money, I prefer to get slightly more brain. I’d settle for something that doesn’t make me wish I’d just sat in the car, waited ‘til the movie was over, and read random Wikipedia pages on my phone. Although, in fairness, very few movies clear that threshold.

The Photograph

The Call of the Wild

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: A Sexual Content: CProfanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C How do you choose between being with the one you love and following your dreams? Christina (Chanté Adams) is a gifted photographer, perfecting her skills in rural Louisiana. She wants to find fame in New York City, but she’s in love with Isaac (Rob Morgan), a local fisherman whose dreams begin and end with marrying her. Should she abandon her goals and stay with Isaac or should she try her luck in the Big Apple? Thirty-five years later, Christina is dead of cancer. Her daughter, Mae (Issa Rae) meets a reporter, Michael (LaKeith Stanfield) whose work on another story led him to Christina’s photos. The two begin a relationship, just as Michael applies for a new job in London. Now Mae must decide if she’s going to follow her mother’s path or find her own way. I love romantic dramas and was hoping The Photograph would deliver two love stories for the price of one. It almost does. The chemistry between Christina and Isaac is palpable and it’s easy to feel the emotional strain as both characters realize their dreams are incompatible. Mae and Michael’s relationship, however, stumbles through lots of awkward moments before it starts to gel. This production features two steamy scenes of premarital sex, with couples shown undressing, and caressing and rolling atop one another in bed. On the bright side, the movie has fewer than a dozen swear words and no violence. While I am annoyed with the movie’s unnecessary sexual content, my overall attitude to The Photograph is ambivalence. If only the romances were more memorable...

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: C Buck is massive St. Bernard/Scotch Collie with a loyal heart, expressive eyes, and prodigious amounts of energy that can’t be contained in his sedate California home. His mischief-making career comes to an abrupt end one night when he is dog-napped, sealed in a wooden crate, and shipped thousands of miles without food or water. Upon arrival in the far North, Buck is brutalized, subdued, and sold as a sled dog to deliver the mail to prospectors in Yukon Territory. Buck’s heart is as resilient as he is strong, and he soon embarks with gusto on this second phase of his life. And, then, on the third. The Call of the Wild carries a number of themes that will interest parents, and resilience is doubtless one of them. Buck is a poster boy for emotional resilience, bouncing back from everything life throws at him. But John Thornton (a scraggly, bearded Harrison Ford), running from the demons of his past and trying to drown them in alcohol, demonstrates that for some of us, resilience is more of a journey than a hardwired personality trait. The primary messages of this film, not surprisingly, relate to man’s relationship to nature. The most obvious is our responsibility to animals. Despite its powerful messages, The Call of the Wild comes with some negatives, none more glaring than the CGI dogs. For parents who aren’t troubled by the movie’s CGI, the only real areas of concern are alcohol use and violence. But for most family viewers, Buck’s adventures will help deepen our appreciation of the beautiful planet we call home and might even help us hear the call of the wild places that still remain.

River Region Parents I March 2020

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Wetumpka Boy Scout Receives Eagle Rank

United Gymstars and Cheer Awarded Compulsory Gym of the Year for 2019

Compulsory levels consist of levels one through five and are foundational for gymnastics. They provide athletes a solid base on which to build as they progress. United Gymstars and Cheer competed with more than fifty gyms in the state. This special award represents the hard work, perseverance and determination these young ladies had to endure in order to make this award a reality. Compulsory Head Coach Cheree Baker, left, joined United Gymstars one year ago and has taken the compulsory teams to the next level with help from coaches Stanley Patterson and Logan Womack. Baker said this award is the result of a lot of hours of hard work and training in the gym, and she is looking forward to continuing the progress this year. Jennifer Alexander, coowner and gym director, recruited Baker to come to United Gymstars and take over the compulsory teams. She said that Baker is the best coach for compulsories in the state and that she could not be prouder of her and the teams. United Gymstars and Cheer has been in Montgomery for more than 20 years and has produced regional and national champions. Many have gone on to earn gymnastics scholarships to major universities. In addition to offering girls and boys gymnastics, United offers cheer, tumbling, and ninja classes.

Micah Grate, son of Myrle and Kathy Grate of Wetumpka, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout. His final project consisted of building three amphibious wheelchairs that benefit disabled campers at Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin. Grate joined Wetumpka Boy Scout Troop 13 in 2014 and earned a total of twenty-two merit badges over his time in the troop. Leadership positions include serving as patrol leader and troop guide. In 2017, he became an Ordeal member in the Order of the Arrow, the national honor society of Scouting, at Alibamu Lodge 179. A highlight of Grate’s Scouting adventures was exploring the Florida Keys at BSA Sea Base in Summerland Key, Florida. Grate is an active member of Mulder Church in Wetumpka and has attended many youth mission trips. He is a senior at Wetumpka High School, where he is a member of Tribal Council. After graduation, he will attend Troy University on a Scholars Award scholarship.

Girl Scouts SeekingNominations for Leading Ladies

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) will host its Fourth Annual Leading Ladies event in April to celebrate women and organizations in southern Alabama that have distinguished themselves as outstanding members of the community through individual excellence and high levels of achievement. Nominations for the Leading Ladies Award and the Leading Workplace for Women Award are open until March 3. Women selected for the Leading Ladies Award exemplify quality leadership skills and outstanding community support, especially when they are directing those efforts to support the advancement of girls and women. GSSA proudly honored Major General Sheryl Gordon as the 2019 Leading Lady. Previous nominees include Whitney Califf, Shawn Cole, Christy Crow, Helena Duncan, Allison Garrett, Lora McClendon, Ann Sikes, and Julie Wriston. Nominees will be honored with a reception at Wynlakes Golf and Country Club in Montgomery on April 28. For more information on how to nominate an employee or workplace, contact Alicia Schneider at aschneider@ girlscoutssa.org or call (800) 239-6636.

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A Page in a Book Books to Bust Up a Bad Mood Managing anger can be a problem at any age, but especially so for children who are still developing their ability to navigate difficult emotions. Just like kids learn how to handle a spoon or dress themselves, they can also learn how to manage behaviors when they are angry. Walking away from anger-inducing situations, breathing exercises, and visual imagery can help increase coping skills. Expressing anger through talking, writing or drawing is also helpful, giving kids calmer means to express their real and legitimate feelings. The following titles use gentle storytelling to both explore angry moments and to offer ideas that help kids cool things off when tempers flare.

Fergal and the Bad Temper by Robert Starling (Imprint / Macmillan) Fergal is really a nice fellow. He just doesn’t like being told what to do. Being told what to eat, how to follow rules, or asked to wait makes him angry. Unfortunately, Fergal’s first instinct is to push back and his temper is a fiery one so everything close to his angry outbursts gets a little bit singed. When Fergal gets mad, the goalposts get grilled, the cupcakes are crisped, and his toys are toast. After everyone around him has had enough of his hot temper, Fergal’s mom offers a solution to cool things down. Exploring the power of a pause to extinguish the quick flash of anger, this title offers cool ideas to take the heat out of mad moments.

Mad, Mad Bear by Kimberly Gee (Beach Lane Books / Simon & Schuster) When Bear starts his morning off mad, the rest of his day just goes from bad to worse. A trip to the park is cut short when he has to leave for a nap. He gets a boo-boo on the way home and he has to leave his favorite stick outside the door. By the time Bear gets to his room, he’s in full meltdown mode. But staying mad is exhausting. Taking one breath, and then another, Bear slowly lets that anger go. No longer mad, he’s able get his day back on track and enjoy a more productive journey toward bedtime. With very simple text and clean imagery, young readers follow the evolution of a tantrum through its peaceful resolution, with gentle tips on how to get a better start to the day.

Sorry (Really Sorry) by Joanna Cotler, Illustrated by Harry Bliss (Philomel / Penguin Random House) Usually happy to spend the day with her farm friends, Cow’s morning is off to a rough start when she steps into deep sticky mud. Mad and dirty, Cow flicks mud right into Duck’s face. And, she’s not sorry. Frog invites Duck for a swim to get the mud off, and he gets an earful of insults from his dirty friend (who’s not sorry either). The bad moods and mean spirits escalate as they get passed from one farm friend to another. When the insults finally reach Dog, instead of letting his feelings be hurt, he explores what’s really got everyone so mad. As they trace the source of their anger, each friend discovers how a heartfelt “I’m sorry” can help fix mad mistakes. Exposing the contagious nature of bad moods, this title reveals the awesome power of a real and sincere apology to get friends back to a happier place.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Local Author Rachel Fisher Releases The Backyard Girls Club to Inspire Connection for Girls Ages 6-11 The Backyard Girls Club is the first installment in a new chapter book series for girls ages 6-11. Through vibrant stories and engaging activities, the Backyard Girls encourages readers to leave a magical mark on their neighborhoods and build friendships that last. Girls will discover the magic, fun, and whimsy waiting for them in their own backyards as they trade modern distractions for face-to-face and heart-to-heart relationships that also empower them to make a difference in their communities. Let’s help take this next generation of girls to the backyard and beyond!

Also includes: * Full-color illustrations * Activities at the end of each chapter any girl can do anywhere with things you have at home * “Club Notes” pages at the end of every chapter for doodles, ideas, and secret club things. * Inspiration for your girl to choose connection and community over distraction and division About the author: Rachel has been scribbling words on paper since the day her Mom surprised her with a pink journal in 1993, on her first day of school. The stories in Backyard Girls Club are inspired by her childhood of growing up on a cul-de-sac in Montgomery with six neighborhood girlfriends and playing outside until the street lights came on. Rachel’s hope is that this book will inspire girls to wake up to the wonder waiting in their own backyards and uncover unlikely friendships that inspire authentic connection without screens in the way. Most of all, she hopes that these stories and the characters will inspire girls to see that friendship and connection to others is one of the best gifts we can give and receive. Purchase at www.backyardgirlsclub.com or Amazon.

From the back cover: When a fort lands in Ruthie and Chrissy’s backyard, the girls who live on Cherry Blossom Place decide to create something magical. Join them in their adventures as they dream, create, serve their neighbors, and learn that friendship is the best gift of all. Activities are included at the end of every chapter, so gather your girl gang and create your own Backyard Girls Club wherever you are!

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With so many kids afflicted with anxiety these days, parents are wise to discuss how to manage nerves with teens before anxiousness becomes a problem. This means starting conversations in late elementary school and throughout middle school, rather than waiting for high school. Can you anxiety-proof your kids? Probably not completely, but you can teach your child the necessary and important life skills for navigating anxious feelings that are bound to crop up. If your child begins to show signs of persistent anxiousness, don’t panic. This is your opportunity to spark an ongoing discussion about mood management. Have a talk while you take a walk outdoors or go for a drive. Without making a huge, dramatic deal about it, revisit the topic of managing emotional ups and downs frequently, so your child understands that he can and will learn to navigate challenging emotions. As much as you may wish for a magic wand, you don’t have one you can wave that makes your child’s worries disappear. And even if you did, you don’t want to dismiss or minimize your children’s anxiety when it crops up. You want to help your children manage the spectrum

of emotions that emerge in everyday life. Try these anti-anxiety tips. They can help everyone in the family feel calmer and more centered.

Affirm nerves are normal. Wouldn’t life be dull if there was never anything to get anxious about? Of course it would. Talk to your child about facing, showing up for, and walking through life’s challenges and how all of this makes us stronger and more confident. You might be tempted to minimize challenges for an emotionally sensitive child, but confronting a steady, manageable flow of age-appropriate challenges is not only educational in the short run, it’s also healthy in the long run. Teach self-soothing. Multi-sensory

experiences can immediately shift a child out of a nervous mood: taking a bath, singing songs out loud, or exercising vigorously outdoors. Experiment with your child in low-pressure situations to discover tension-relieving activities to use later as needed. Get in the life-long habit of consciously lowering anxiousness and then redirecting attention in a more productive manner.

Let excitement feel scary. Is your child excited? Even healthy excitement can feel a little scary sometimes. Not knowing how things will turn out usually makes the heart rate go up and is part of the joy of living. We don’t get to control every outcome, which leads to suspense. So our job is to feel the excitement, show up, and put one foot in front of the other, whether things always go our way or not. Pack three meals plus two protein snacks. Make sure your child

is not suffering from low blood sugar, which can increase anxiety, by planning on three balanced meals daily plus two high-protein snacks like a granola bar or yogurt between meals. If your child shows signs of sugar lows, like shaky hands or emotional outbursts between meals, blood sugar might be an issue. Make a habit of grabbing a sandwich or a protein pack before a stressful event, no matter what the time of day.

Avoid sugar and caffeine. Avoid sodas and candy. Consider eliminating all foods with high fructose corn syrup from your family’s diet. If your child has food sensitivities or allergies, take steps

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to address them so foods don’t become an anxiety trigger. If sugar and caffeine are often consumed, let them follow meals so they don’t trigger a blood sugar roller coaster.

Accept personality quirks. Never

assume your child can handle something simply because you would have been able to handle it or because your child’s siblings or friends can. Part of letting your child be an individual is not comparing her to others. After a challenging experience, ask her how she feels, rather than assuming how she should feel. Be interested in the ways your child experiences life differently from you and from others and support her individuality by validating the positivity in being unique.

Cheer them on. We have so many jobs as parents, but one of the most important jobs is the cheerleader role. Don’t take yourself so seriously as a grown-up that you can’t come down to your child’s level and say, “You can do it!” Your child needs you next to her, encouraging her, not scowling down from on high, fretting about outcomes. If you want your kids

to be brave, don’t pressure them - cheer them on instead.

Weather disappointments. As

a parent, you must be able to see your child cry without over-reacting. Teaching a child to avoid crying at all costs is like saying that experiencing disappointment or sadness makes them weak. When we teach kids to embrace challenging emotions, to dig deep and be honest so they can express feelings no matter how challenging in the moment, they become more resilient, empathetic citizens in the long run.

Reward bravery. We live in a fairly

unpredictable world, so it’s a great idea to teach kids how to take healthy risks. Kids who learn to push themselves to achieve goals, like taking a more challenging class or trying out for a competitive sport, will have less energy to channel into risky or adrenaline-fueled behavior. A great end-of-the-week dinner topic for families is: who gets to wear an invisible crown of bravery? Reward the daring, rather than the results, and then kids will learn that courage is its own reward.

When To Seek Professional Help

If your child consistently displays the following symptoms, please consult a mental health professional. 1. Anxiousness to the point of headaches, stomachaches and tiredness with no other known physical cause. 2. Chronic sleeping problems including going to sleep, waking up or staying asleep. 3. Low self-esteem characterized by being excessively hard on the self for no logical reason. 4. Consistent excessive worry about everyday things like school, friends, grades, teachers, etc. 5. Avoiding school, withdrawing from friends, irritability with authority figures, successive high-highs and low-lows, use of substances, eating disorders or other self-destructive behaviors. rrp Author, writing coach and journalist Christina Katz is always striving to find the middle ground in parenting advice. She knows clear lines of communication between parents and teens are always so important, especially when the subject is a mental health topic.

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FamilyCalendar Wednesday, March 4

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 March 18 Noon-1 p.m. Each Artful Yoga session will draw 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.

Thursday, March 5

Book Talk at the Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Noon. 624 Washington Avenue. “The Old Federal Road in Alabama,” presented by Kathryn Braund, Gregory Waselkov and Raven Christopher. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Free Demonstration, Lecture & Reception with Folk Artist Larry Wilson 5-7 p.m., Pike Road Arts Center. Wilson is a retired civil servant who likes “playing in the mud.” With no formal training, Larry began to follow his passion for pottery in 2007, and continues to create pieces intended to share a smile, touch a heart, and make you think. For more info, visit www.pikeroad.us or call (334) 272-9883. Wetumpka Impact Crater Lecture by Dr. King 6:30-7:30 p.m. Annual update and review of current research by Dr. David King. No charge. For more info, call (334) 567-5147. Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -Also March 12, 19 & 26 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 Bahamas). Connections will also be made to works in the Museum’s galleries. Classes are limited to 25 students. First come, first serve. For more info, call (334) 2404333 or visit mmfa.org/. 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 8 7 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Troy

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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).** Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Ruby: The Story of Ruby Bridges -- Through March 22 Adapted by Christina M. Ham; music by Gary Rue; and directed by Sarah Walker Thornton. Ruby Bridges was six years old when the Civil Rights Movement came hammering at her door — choosing her as the first African-American child to integrate an all-white elementary school in the South. Recommended ages 11+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net/ or call (334) 271-5353.

Saturday, March 7

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) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/. Guided Nature Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 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. Pike Road Art Market 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Pike Road Town Hall. Browse and buy handmade gifts, art, and more from Alabama artisans. This family-friendly event is free to enter, and a great opportunity to connect with friends & neighbors. The British Motoring Club of Montgomery will be showcasing their cars and the Montgomery County Humane Society will have adoptable pets onsite! For more info, call (334) 272-9883 or visit www.pikeroad.us. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. All locations. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is our Binoculars Workshop. Kids develop hands-on skills with gluing, hammering and more. Each child also receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops. Annual Wetumpka Impact Crater Tours 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tours from Trinity Episcopal Church beginning at 8:30 a.m.; 9:50 a.m.; 11:10 a.m.; and 1 p.m. Advanced registration required. $20 for adults. $10 children under 12. Not recommended for very small children. Call Valencia at (334) 567-5147.

Sunday, March 8

Second Sundays at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also on March 29 in place of April 12 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. Free Events for Kids - Craft Stick Bee 2-4 p.m. Michael’s EastChase Market Center. FREE fun for kids ages 3+. For more info, visit https://www. michaels.com/classes or call (334) 260-2846.

Monday, March 9

ACT Complete Review Begins Classes meet Mondays through Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. at the AUM Office of Continuing Education located at 75 TechnaCenter Drive in Montgomery. Math Review begins March 9; Language Review March 23; and Science Review March 30. For more info or to register, call (334) 244-3804 or visit www. aum.edu/coned. Free Events for Kids - Pom Pom Caterpillar 4-6 p.m. Michael’s EastChase Market Center. FREE fun for kids ages 3+. For more info, visit https://www. michaels.com/classes or call (334) 260-2846.

Tuesday, March 10

Free Events for Kids - Stained Glass Kite 4-6 p.m. Michael’s EastChase Market Center. FREE fun for kids ages 3+. For more info, visit https://www. michaels.com/classes or call (334) 260-2846.

Wednesday, March 11

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, March 12

Eat A Peach: An Allman Brothers Tribute Doors open at 7 p.m.; music at 7:30. The Capri Theatre, 1045 E Fairview Ave. Tickets are $20 in advance. Visit https://www.liveandlisten.com/. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org/ or call (334) 262-4858. Capitol Sounds Concert Band and Montgomery Recreators Present “Swing into Spring 2020” 7 p.m. Saint James United Methodist Church, 9045 Vaughn Road. Two of Montgomery’s oldest performing organizations will be in concert together for classic big band and swing favorites. The event is free and open to the public, but donations are always welcome. For more info, visit www.montgomeryrecreators.com or www.capitolsounds.org.

Friday, March 13

Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also March 27 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. Walk-ins welcome (until maximum capacity is reached). For more info, call (334) 284-2244 or visit http://unitedgymstarsandcheer.com/.

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FamilyCalendar 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 yearround (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, March 14

Birding Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. During this session you will learn the basics of using binoculars, then put your skills to the test as you search for everything from song birds to raptors! General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. MPAC Presents Nephew Tommy and Friends 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $51. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Dino Dig Education Program 10 a.m.-noon. Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum. Are you ready to get a little dirty? Our junior explorers get to experience an archaeological dig, discover bones from the past and have a great time while learning about creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old. For more info, call (334) 6254909 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/. U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery Local Tour Lagoon Park Golf Course, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in age-appropriate competition. The top five finishers in each age group will receive Priority Status, granting them invitations to Championship Events. For more info, call Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536 or visit www.uskidsgolf.com. Children’s Theatre Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. Prattville Cultural Arts Center, 203 West 4th Street. Way Off Broadway Theatre will present this free Children’s Theatre Workshop for 1st-5th grades. The workshop is free, but space is limited and reservations are required. Call (334) 595-0850. Montgomery Half-Marathon 7 a.m. Half-Marathon Start; 7:15 a.m. 5K Start. Downtown Montgomery. Prices: 5K is $30 per participant; Half-Marathon is $45 per participant. 5K Awards are 9-9:30 a.m. Half-Marathon Awards are 11-11:30 a.m. For more info, visit https:// mmstiming.com/races/half-marathon/half-info/. River Region Comic Con -- Also March 15 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Multiplex at Cramton Bowl, 220 Hall St. For more info, visit http://riverregioncomiccon.com/. AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also March 28 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! This program is available on second and fourth Saturdays (familyfriendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. 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 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/1374454692792666 /?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and preregistration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com. 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/.

Tuesday, March 17

Joe Thomas Jr. Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Cloverdale Playhouse. The Singer/Songwriter Series is a great night of original music and songwriters talking about how they craft their music and performing original works on the Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org/ for more info.

Wednesday, March 18

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.

Thursday, March 19

The Capri Theatre Presents Charlie Chaplin in The Great Dictator 7:30 p.m. The Capri Theatre, 1045 E Fairview Ave. When Charlie Chaplin finally spoke on film, he had a lot to say. The Great Dictator is a story about a powerless, amnesiac barber and a similar-looking, powerful dictator. Released in 1940 while the U.S. was still officially at peace with Nazi Germany, the film was Charlie Chaplin’s bold attempt to ridicule Hitler and people like him. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org/ or call (334) 262-4858.

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 “Julia Tutwiler’s Life of Service,” presented by Paul M. Pruitt Jr. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Art After 5: Signs of Lift 6-8 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Young adults and the young at heart enjoy works of art and take home their own refrigerator masterpieces! Participants can also stretch out in the galleries with yoga while enjoying the sounds of a local band with friends. This series is a free night of fun and entertainment. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/. MPAC Presents Nitty Gritty Dirt Band 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Following an extended 50th anniversary tour, the ensemble grew to a six-piece in 2018 for the first time since their early jug band days. Tickets begin at $22. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. 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 Kory Russell, battalion chief, Prattville Fire Department. For more info, contact Nancy at (334) 414-8185 or nschrull@knology.net. 2020 Southeastern Livestock Expo Rodeo -Through March 21 Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery. The rodeo coming to town means more than just buckin’ broncos, barrel racing and burly bulls. It means family fun for all ages! Enjoy a stick horse rodeo before every rodeo performance. The Western Festival on Saturday will feature games and activities like dummy roping, mutton busting and wagon rides to teach you all about the life of the cowboy. For more info, visit https://slerodeo.com/.

Friday, March 20

New Garden Installations Opening at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6 p.m. Fans of outdoor art are invited to celebrate the latest additions to the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden and see new works by North Carolina artist Patrick Dougherty and Alabama artist Jamey Grimes. Stay for the reception that follows in the Garden. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 625-4333.

Saturday, March 21

GO Fish at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 10 a.m. Get Outdoors and fish for catfish and bream in the upper pond at the ANC. Ponds are catch and release only. Bring the family! General admission applies and includes this awesome program!General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. 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 of-

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FamilyCalendar fered 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. Tracing Your African American Ancestors 9 a.m.-noon. Ala. Dept. of Archives and History, 624 Washington Ave. This workshop features guidance for navigating potential research roadblocks and will address challenges specific to African American genealogical research. Cost is $30 for the public and $20 for Friends of the Archives members. For more info, contact Sarah at (334) 242-4364 or sarah. mcqueen@archives.alabama.gov. Prattville Artists Market 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Prattville Creative Arts Center. Come out to see and shop original works of art by local and regional artist members of the art guild. Works include paintings and drawings, photography, clay, recycle art and more! This event is free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0850. Old Cahawba Bird Walk for Beginners (and History Buffs) 8-10 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Learn the basics of bird identification from an experienced birder on this easy two-hour walk through historic Old Cahawba. Meet at the visitors’ center, rain or shine, and bring your binoculars and bird guides if you’ve got them. 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. Free Printmaking Workshop 0-11:30 a.m. for ages 8-11; 12:30-2 p.m. for ages 12-14. Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery. In this free workshop, students will learn a printmaking technique and create prints of their own. Space is limited and registration is required. For more info, call (334) 595-0850.

Wednesday, March 25

Druids Charity Club & Hog Days of Summer Present An Evening with Ghost Light Doors open at 7 p.m.; music at 8. The Capri Theatre, 1045 E Fairview Ave. Tickets are $15 in advance. Visit https://www.liveandlisten.com/. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org/ or call (334) 262-4858. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream -- Through March 28 Written by Shakespeare; directed by Greta Lambert. Deep in a wondrous forest, it’s a wild night for lunatics and lovers as we dive into Shakespeare’s unforgettable vision of ludicrous longing, lively language, and lasting love. Surrender to the enchanting world of the Bard’s most beguiling comedy in ASF’s idyllic Shakespeare Garden. Recommended ages 10+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net/ or call (334) 271-5353.

Thursday, March 26

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. Carlie Burkett will present “Researching your Family History.” This talk will cover general genealogy research for novice or advanced researchers, including tips and tricks from reference archivists from the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History. Luncheon cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, March 23, to Janie Kennett at (813) 309-0300 or jmkennett12@yahoo.com. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com for more info. 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.

U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery Local Tour Arrowhead Country Club, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in ageappropriate competition. For info, call Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536 or visit www.uskidsgolf.com.

Friday, March 27

French & Indian Living History Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park, 2521 W Fort Toulouse Rd, Wetumpka. Living history Saturdays feature interpretive demonstrations of everyday life in the 1750s and early 1800s. For more info, visit https://ahc.alabama.gov/properties/ fttoulouse/fttoulouse.aspx.

Prattville Community Chorus Spring Dinner Concert 6:30 p.m. dinner served; 7 p.m. concert begins. Doster Community Center. Featuring the Prattville Pops Jazz Band and the Prattville High School Show Choir. Tickets are $25 per person and reservations required. For info, call (334) 595-0850 or visit https://cc.prattvilleal.gov/.

Sunday, March 22

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.

Montgomery Symphony Orchestra Fellowship Series Recital 2:30-4 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Ryan Donohue’s final Fellowship Series performance will include Beethoven and Schubert in collaboration with Wendy Vandermolen. Tickets are $17 for adults and free for students. For more info, call (334) 240-4004.

Tuesday, March 24

MPAC Presents A La Carte Sessions Featuring Chris Knight: An Evening of Great Music and Food 6 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $65. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

River Region Parents I March 2020

MPAC Presents Newsboys United: Greatness of Our God Tour 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Tickets begin at $21. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Saturday, March 28

Easter Eggstravaganza at the Alabama Nature Center Activities include three different age group egg hunts (ages 1-12), Easter games, egg race, bunny pictures, and more! Hot dogs will be for sale from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the pavilion outpost. General admission applies and includes this awesome program. For more

info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Pike Road Community Yard Sale 7-11 a.m. Pike Road Town Hall, 9575 Vaughn Rd. Space reservations begin Monday, March 2, and Booth spaces are $25 each. Deadline to reserve your booth is 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 26. Proceeds from space rentals benefit the Pike Road Lions Club. For more info, e-mail foxwood336@charter.net or call (334) 399-5930. The Lake Martin 100 Ultra Run -Also March 29 A 27-mile fun run, a 50-mile trail run, and 100-mile Ultra Trail Run through the Russell Forest. Typically headquartered at Russell Crossroads in the Artist Cabin. For info, call (256) 397-1019 or visit www. southeasterntrailruns.com/lake-martin-100.html.

Sunday, March 29

Pike Road Community Easter Egg Hunt 2-5 p.m. Century Church Land, 1001 Marler Rd., Pike Road. There will be crafts, games, face painting, inflatables, a petting zoo and plenty of eggs to hunt! For more info, find us on Facebook. Prattville Pops Annual Spring Concert 3 p.m. Doster Community Center. The concert will feature both the Concert and Jazz Bands and will include a variety of music for the entire family to enjoy. This event is free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0850. WWE Live Road to Wrestlemania 7 p.m. Garrett Coliseum, 1555 Federal Dr. Tickets begin at $15. For more info, call 1-800-745-3000 or visit http://www.thegarrettcoliseum.com/. MPAC Presents Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. This finely calibrated set of ten songs is aimed right between the clear eyes of people who prefer to stay present and awake. It’s a call to those who won’t cower no matter how erratically the world turns, and who aren’t afraid of what looks back when they look in the mirror. Tickets begin at $42. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Food Truck Takeover at Hampstead Noon-3 p.m. A variety of local trucks may include Wharf Casual Seafood Montgomery, Smokin’ Wells BBQ, Taqueria El Campesino, Fire Meats Wood LLC, Frios Gourmet Pops - River Region, That’s My Dog Montgomery, Alabama Sweet Tea Co., Cheesecake Empori-Yum, and Dynamite Dogs. Live Music. Great for all ages. Parking located on Long Acre, Mercer Street and in 2 large Hampstead Parking Lots. For more info, visit www. hampsteadliving.com/.

Wednesday, April 1

MPAC Presents The Price is Right Live! 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Registraion opens at 4:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $42. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Thursday, April 2

MPAC Presents Rodney Crowell 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Fusing the sensibility of the Texas singer/songwriter community with a sound that honored country’s past

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FamilyCalendar while adding a rock & roll punch. Tickets begin at $26. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Arts for Autism 2–4:30 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Friends and family are invited to gather in support of those among us on the spectrum. April is National Autism Awareness Month, and we will kick it off with a series of fun activities throughout the Museum to help raise awareness and increase communications. Activities will include makeand-take art projects, Ask-Me docents in the galleries, and dancing in front of the Tannenbaum screen. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 6254333. Art and the Automobile -- Through April 5 Montgomery Museum of Fine Art. To celebrate the passion of car enthusiasts, collectors and lovers of design, the Museum will host a special exhibition featuring some of the most exquisite, vintage, and state-of-the-art cars in Montgomery and the surrounding areas. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 625-4333. Wetumpka Depot Players Present Don’t Dress for Dinner -- Through April 18 7:30 p.m. performances except for a 2 p.m. matinee Apr. 5. Bernard is planning a romantic weekend with his chic Parisian mistress in his charming converted French farmhouse, whilst his wife, Jacqueline, is away. He has arranged for a cordon bleu cook to prepare gourmet delights, and has invited his best friend, Robert, along to provide the alibi. For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Saturday, April 4

Roommates with Lou and Indy at Alabama Nature Center 10 a.m. Know what it is like to live with a roommate? During this program we will learn about two threatened species in Alabama, the gopher tortoise (Lou) and Eastern Indigo Snake (Indy). Not only will you get to meet Lou & Indy you will have a chance to touch them too! General admission applies and includes this awesome program. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Pratt Park. Join us for a fun, free, family festival featuring art, entertainment, demonstrations, family and kids’ activities, food vendors and more. The Prattville Community Chorus will perform. For info, visit www.prattvilleal.gov/departments/community-chorus. html or call (334) 595-0850. Civil War Walking Tour of Old Cahawba and P.O.W. Memorial Service 10 a.m.-noon. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. Guided tour will immerse visitors in the history of Castle Morgan, the POW camp at Old Cahawba, and explore the plight of these unfortunate soldiers as well as the hardships of the town’s Confederate residents who suffered while their husbands, fathers and sons were off to war, many never to return. 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. 16th Annual Autism Crawfish Boil Noon-4 p.m. Montgomery Biscuits Stadium. All-youcan-eat crawfish and sides, cold beverages, live

music featuring NBC’s The Voice finalist Kirk Jay and Kountry Funk, along with other local bands and more. Raffle prizes, crawfish souvenirs and fun will all be waiting for YOU! Benefits the autism services provided at Easterseals Central Alabama. General admission tickets are $35; kids (ages 3-10) are $10 (includes kids meal). For more info, find us on Eventbrite.com. Puppy Palooza 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Shoppes at EastChase near Pies & Pints. Benefiting the Montgomery Humane Society, this free, pet-friendly event will feature a Fido Marketplace, pet adoptions, food trucks, live music and more! Vendor applications are available at theshoppesateastchase.com. U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery Local Tour Prattville Country Club, Prattville. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in age-appropriate competition. The top five finishers in each age group will receive Priority Status, granting them invitations to Championship Events. For more info, call Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536 or visit www.uskidsgolf.com.

Sunday, April 5

Music On The Deck - Jonathan Bloom 4:30-7:30 p.m. Kowaliga Restaurant, 295 Kowaliga Marina Road, Alexander City. Join us on the deck as we kick off the Music On The Deck summer series! For more info, call (256) 215-7035 or visit https://www. russelllandsonlakemartin.com/blog/ events/.

on colors, textures, and shapes and will help set a foundation for curiosity and art basics. Next classes are March 10 from 10-10:30 a.m. and 10:30-11 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for 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

Tuesday, April 7

The Art of Baking Puppet Show -- Also April 8 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. shows both days. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Children (aged 3 to 6) and their families are invited to join us as we introduce this fun visual and performance event. The characters show children how it takes everyone working together to turn the bakery’s yummy treats into art using color, shape, and line. Contact Tour Coordinator Jill Byrd at (334) 625.4359 or visit https://mmfa.org/ to arrange plans.

Thursday, April 9

MPAC Presents Josh Turner 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. As one of the youngest members inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, Turner has sold more than 8 million units. Tickets begin at $26. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.

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

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 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. 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

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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.

Must provide your own car seat! $10 per car seat payable at the time of inspection by cash or check. Visit www.baptistfirst.org/ or e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.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.

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.

Cloverdale Playhouse Rep Class Series Remaining 2019 dates are: December 2 from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cloverdale Playhouse Rehearsal Hall. This is a safe space to work on your craft, develop your audition skills, share your newest piece, or just get feedback on your latest artistic endeavor. Guest panels and rotating faculty ensure constant growth and a variety of insight. Even if you don’t perform every time - you can learn a lot by observing! There will be a sign-up sheet if you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 747-7700 Option # for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 747-7700 Option # for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@ alabamachild.org. Infant Car Seat Safety Inspection Baptist Health’s Certified Car Seat Safety Technician will help set your mind at ease. Expectant parents can register for a one-on-one car seat installation session tailored to your vehicle. Our goal is to ensure your confidence in a safe ride home from the hospital. Space is limited. Pre-registration required

River Region Parents I March 2020

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. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@ jackson.org. 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. Participants will practice breathing and relaxation exercises along with other comfort measures. This class is most beneficial when your support person attends. Space is limited. 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. Wetumpka Line Dance Classes held at A Chance to Dance, 68 Queen Ann Road, Wetumpka. Country and Non-Country Music for All Ages! CURRENT CLASS SCHEDULE: Mon. Beginner 7:15 p.m.; Wed. Beginner 10 a.m.; Wed. Senior 2 p.m.; Wed. Intermediate 7 p.m.; Fri. High Beginner/ Intermediate 7 p.m. *Open Dance to follow class. For more info, call (334) 452-0293 or find us on Facebook.

Support Groups 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.

Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS2345 for more info. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800-ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000.

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FamilyCalendar General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

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

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous Meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 6 p.m. and Mondays @ 6:30 p.m.: meet at Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US Hwy. 231 N in the Wetumpka/Wallsboro community. The church is 1 1/2 miles past Tutweiler prison on the same side of the street. Sundays @ 5 p.m.: meet at Mental Health of America, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. For more information about the GA meetings, call (334) 399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker, please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at (334) 277-5100.

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@ aol.com for more info.

Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 279-6677. 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. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. 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

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30

p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 495-6350. Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss Support Group Meets at 6 p.m. third Wednesdays at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka. Group is for those living with or caring for someone with memory loss. This will be a monthly event that will provide information, a time to share and listen to others experiencing what you are, a time to be supported in your struggles and to share your victories. All are invited. Sometimes caregivers just need to talk with those that understand their struggles. For more info, call (334) 235-4151 or visit The Gathering Place Community Respite on Facebook. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-3654201), for additional information. Diabetes Support Group Noon-1 p.m. and 4-5 p.m., fourth Thursdays, Jackson Hospital Park Place Building Suite 302. Are you interested in learning how to better manage your Type 2 diabetes? Would you like support from others as you work to control your diabetes? Sponsored by inpatient diabetes educator Michelle Carothers, this group offers clinical information, advice and tips to make living with diabetes easier for you and your family. Register today! Call (334) 293-8574 or e-mail michelle.carothers@jackson.org. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance on Mental Illness) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 7205 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. NAMI also presents a 12-week series of free classes on mental illness. These classes are for family members living with or supporting individuals with mental illness. To register, call Pat Cobb at (334) 279-8331. NAMI Connection (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a support group for individuals with mental illness. It meets every Thursday from 6-7:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Call Pat Cobb at (334) 279-8331 for more info. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Ostomy Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Highway. Meets every other month on 2nd Sundays at 1:30 p.m. in Room 3101. 2018 meetings

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SupportGroups are in June, August, October and December. Call 495-6350 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Millbrook City Chamber of Commerce meeting room, 34531 Main Street in Millbrook. Saturdays at a.m. Trouble with food? Do you worry about the way you eat? Overeaters Anonymous can help. It’s not a diet club; it’s a fellowship of people who don’t want to suffer anymore. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. There are no dues, fees, or weigh-ins. Visit our new meeting in the area. All are welcome! For more info, call (662) 425-2010 or visit www.oa.org. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer UMC Activity Bldg. Room 8114, on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 495-6350.

Parent Support

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. 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.

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-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery. AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@ llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a 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

River Region Parents I March 2020

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.montgomeryfbc.org/ MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.

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 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. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. 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.

Single Parents Support

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.

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.

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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 at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

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

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We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource

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

First Baptist of Prattville, 49

My Kids Attic, 19, 31

First Presb. Kindergarten, P’ville, 19

New Park, 2

Abrakadoodle, 18

Frazer Memorial UMC, 14

Newtopia, 9

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Adventure Sports II, 76

Gogue Performing Arts Center, 65

OB/GYN Associates, 51

Alabama Christian Academy, 23, 78

Guardian Credit Union, 65

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 35

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Alabama Dance Theatre, 34

Guild Mortgage, 4

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 52

AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front

Healthy Kids Expo, 7, 83

Parakeleo Counseling, 20

Alabama River Region Ballet, 75

Hooper Academy, 35

Pike Road Dental, 40

Ala School of Math & Science, 55

Huntingdon Learning Center, 54

Prattville YMCA, 50

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 67

Inflatables of Montgomery, 79

RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back

Armory Athletics, 72

Jackson Hospital, 91

Resurrection Catholic School, 37

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ASKIN/Synergy House, 80

Jeff Dickey, New Waters Realty, 87

River Region Straw, 43

Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 81

Joy to Life, 15

Riverview Camp for Girls, 69

Bandaloop Yoga & Wellness, 80

Judy Barranco Photography, 43

Saint James School, 1

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Baptist Health, 53

Just for Grins - Orthodontist, 89

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 61

Bush Pediatric Dentistry, 33

Kingry Orthodontics, 21

Spotless Cleaning Services, 8

Chapman Orthodontics, 28

Kreative Moments, 50

Success Unlimited Academy, 39, 47

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 28

Lakeview Baptist Church, 76

Sylvan Learning Center, 32

Churchill Academy, 21

Larry Chapman, ALFA Insurance, 26

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 80

Dentistry for Children, 57

Learning Tree Child Care, 46

The Herb Shop, 25

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 89

Lil’ Priss Parties, 20

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

EdTech Academy, 18

Macon East Academy, 45

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 71

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 57

Mathnasium, 73

Trinity Presbyterian School, 3

Evangel Christian Academy, 81

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 32

Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 52

Expedition Lanark, AL Nature Center, 59

Montessori @ Hampstead, 79

United Gymstars & Cheer, 85

Eye Center South, 22

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 87

Family Guidance Center, 77

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 27, 29

Vaughn Road Preschool, 82

Faulkner Baseball Camps, 72

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 63

We Care Therapy Services, 11

FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 71

Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 36

Wine and Design, 70

First Baptist of Montgomery, 41

Montgomery Zoo, 74

YMCA Camp Chandler, 75

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Lena: With the birth of my first baby, I realized how hard it would be not to have my mother close by. I realized how much I needed her help and advice. Figuring out motherhood and its intricacies, I developed a deeper appreciation and love for my mom. RRP: What are your unique gifts and talents? Lena: I don’t know if it is a talent or a gift, but I do speak, write and read Russian fluently. I am surprised at how many times I was approached to help with interpreting Russian.

Lena Littlefield

RRP: Lena, you have created a healthy eating environment in your home. What are some of the positive effects that have come from providing whole, fresh foods?

RRP: Lena, you were raised in the Arctic Circle of Russian Federation. Tell us the biggest difference and your favorite thing about now living in Alabama.

Lena: In our polluted world, clean and healthy eating is a must for good health, well-being, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing risks of diseases. For me personally, I have been able to maintain a normal lifestyle with my autoimmune disease, and for my son, with a precise diet, I was able to avoid having him medicated for his ADHD. RRP: What is a go-to meal for your family?

Lena: Climate would be the biggest difference. Growing up in Russia, long cold winters would start in September and snow would start to melt in May. I must say I like Alabama’s weather a lot better. Alabama has been my home for more than 25 years. Being so far away from my own family, a lot of godly women welcomed me into their homes, lended a helping hand and just loving me as their own. People are what I love the most about this state.

Lena: I cook all the time and I implement a lot of Russian dishes. My husband and children love Russian cabbage soup with beets (Borscht). RRP: What is something you hope your children are learning from watching you? Lena: I know they are learning to put God first and trust Him in everything. I truly believe both of them will be great parents one day. RRP: In your opinion, what is the best part about being a Mom?

RRP: How would you describe your parenting style?

Lena: Being mom is hard work and a life time of training, but without this experience I would never have learned how to sacrifice myself, how to have a normal day on no sleep, how to put another person first, how to keep my thoughts captive and deny myself. It is God’s wonderful design to be able to bring another person into life.

Lena: Every child needs consistency and discipline. I can truly say that today I am a wiser and more patient mother to my son than I was in my earlier years with my first child. Thank God for His wisdom! My son has a lot of responsibilities at home for which he does NOT get allowances. During the summer he cuts grass at our house and his grandmother’s house. We encourage him to work and earn money to afford things he wants/desires.

Lena and Waylen Littlefield (Waylen Joseph Salon) have two children: Rachel (23) and Zach (15). In her free time, Lena enjoys gardening and raising chickens.

RRP: After becoming a mom, did your love increase for your mother? In what ways?

River Region Parents I March 2020

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