River Region Parents "Afterschool Activities Issue" (August 23)

The Rainbow Fish

Sunday, October 22

3 p.m.

B – The Underwater Bubble Show

Sunday, October 29

3 p.m.

123 Andrés

Sunday, March 24

3 p.m.

Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live

Sunday, April 7 3 p.m.

Back-to-School Ideas

The summer heat may be at an all-time high, but summer break is ending for our kids. It flew by, as always! And while I’ll miss the later wake-up times and more free-flowing schedule, getting back into a steady routine sounds pretty good too. I’m ready to get our 12-year-old, Grace, on her usual bedtime routine again and to be more particular about her nutrition, both of which make for better behavior and smoother days. I’ll admit there have been too many ice cream cones and bags of Goldfish eaten and too many late nights since the end of May. It’s been fun, even if a little chaotic at times. We all thrive on routines, so I’m happily welcoming the school year while also finding it hard to believe Grace (pictured heading to sixth grade last year) is now off to junior high school!

In this month’s Back to School Issue, we’ve included some articles to start your school year on the right foot. Cherie Gough shares advice in Out the Door On Time: Tips for a Smooth Morning Routine, and Pam Molnar offers 16 fun and memorable traditions to make the first day/week of school extra special. August also means time to sign up for after-school activities so flip to our extensive guide of options available in the River Region for your kids. Whether your child is into a team or individual sport, art or theater, dance or martial arts, we’ve got you covered. Registration is taking place, so don’t wait, and please pay special attention to our advertisers throughout the guide. They are excited and looking forward to serving your family!

The beginning of the school year also means some new teenage drivers will hit our roads. If you hap pen to be the parent of one, be sure to read Protecting Your Teen Driver. You’ll find invaluable tips to share with your child to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

Our aim with each issue of River Region Parents is to help your family thrive, no matter what phase you find yourself in the parenting journey. We welcome your comments and suggestions. Have a great 2023-24 school year! We’ll be here to support you all along the way.

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006)

Editor DeAnne Watson editor@riverregionparents.com

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers

Dr. Melvin Brown

Kristi Bush, LSW Richard Dennis

Cherie Gough

Christa Hines

Pam Molnar

Kimberley Carter Spivey Works of Wonder Therapy

Cover Photography Lisa Smith www.studiopanache.net

Publisher Jason Watson jason@riverregionparents.com

Advertising Department (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 adservices@keepsharing.com or Text 334.328.5189

Digital Manager Scott Davis

Ad Design Tim Welch

deanne@riverregionparents.com

herein.

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Raising Emotionally Resilient Children

There are two common misconceptions that hinder parents from raising emotionally resilient children. The first is that “healthy children” have appropriate emotional reactions. The second is that “good parents” are immediately able to help their children overcome negative emotions.

First, do not believe the lie that only “healthy children” have appropriate emotional reactions. You may become fixated on solving a problem that does not exist. If your child is under the age of 8 and your ONLY concern is that he/ she displays overly negative emotions, please know that this is completely age appropriate. Children tend to become upset when they are denied access to what they want, are made to do what they do not want to do, are not given enough attention, or are physically overwhelmed (tired, hungry, etc). If they are over the age of 8, you should see a SLOW improvement in their ability to display self-control when they become upset. Once puberty starts, just try to remember how

hard that season of life was on you and model the reactions you want to see.

Second, the idea that “good parents” can immediately manage their child’s negative emotions is false. If children are not forced to struggle through their own negative emotions, they are bypassing a vital part of the developmental process. Sometimes what appears to be “good parenting” is detrimental for character building. We help children build character and emotional resilience by simply sitting with them in difficult moments.

What does it mean to “sit” with your struggling child?

1. It is telling your toddler that he cannot have another cookie and holding him close when he starts to cry. It is not redirecting his attention to distract him from the frustration.

2. It is actively listening to your preteen tell a story about how mean her friends can be. It is not helping her see another per-

spective or telling her how to respond more appropriately.

3. It is letting your child be afraid. It is not dismissing the fear or allowing it to dictate his behavior.

4. It is letting your daughter push the Legos away when her Lego tower falls apart. It is not giving her instructions on how to take deep breaths instead.

Excellent parents just sit in the struggle with their children. They save teaching for when learning is optimal. They do not attempt to solve, control, or avoid their child’s negative emotions. Despite the circumstances, they remain focused on their goal of raising emotionally regulated adults who can respond appropriately when things do not go their way. Excellent parents focus on actions more than feelings and attitudes. When they do this, they help their children learn that their feelings cannot dictate their behavior. They do not attempt to make their children “feel good” about doing hard things. Instead, they do it with them. If their child does not want to go to the bathroom, they take her anyway. If their child is afraid of jumping in the pool, they jump in with him. It is easy to parent with words, but excellent parents speak with their actions.

Excellent parents help their children understand that it is normal to experience all 87 emotions. They do not teach their children to chase “good” emotions and avoid the “bad”. They help children understand that negative emotions are not problematic, but a normal part of enjoying life to its fullest.

Be an excellent parent by being strong enough to just sit with your children when they experience negative emotions, stay calm when they display inappropriate reactions, and take the necessary actions to do the hard things with them instead of simply talking to ease your own discomfort.

Buckmaster Expo 2023

August 18-20

Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Convention Center Shop more than 300 vendor booths

Bulls & Buckmasters - Professional Bull Riding event

Hog Days of Summer

Saturday, August 26 * 2PM - 10PM Union Station, Montgomery

The Druids Charity Club is pleased to

event benefitting Hogs for the Cause and other carefully selected local charities. Our best lineup yet will be rocking the shed including Drivin N Cryin, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio and Southern Avenue Once again, our patrons can look forward to enjoying BBQ from the River Region’s finest BBQ establishments. Visit www. facebook.com/HogDaysMGM/.

FGC’s Heart & Sole “Sneaker” Gala

Saturday, August 19 * 6PM Alley Station, Montgomery

This exciting event to benefit the Family Guidance Center of Alabama will include dinner, cash bar, music, silent auction and 3 cash drawings. Grand prize: $5000; 2nd prize: $3000; 3rd prize: $2000. Tickets: $125 for two people. www.familyguidancecenter.org

Friday and Saturday nights – (located directly in front of the Renaissance). See the high-flying Action Dock Dogs Free Riverboat rides Watch the 4-H & Collegiate Top Bow Archery Competition And see the archery record book Buck. Bring your deer racks to be scored FREE all weekend. And many special guest appearances over the weekend! $1 DONATION or 1 can food per person per day. Visit buckmasters.com/resources/expo.

Summer Edit

Thursday, August 10 * 6 to 7:30 PM Near South Boutique, Shoppes at EastChase, Montgomery

Enjoy live music, pop-up vendors and giveaways. Vendors include: Aqualime Skincare, Bloom Cart, Bone and Arrow Jewelry, Nothing Bundt Cakes, South Boutique, Studio Panache Photo Booth, and more. The first 100 attendees will get complimentary EastChase swag! www.theshoppesateastchase.com

August Fun with the Montgomery Biscuits

Visit https://www.milb.com/montgomery/.

Saturday, August 12

Game at 6:05 PM; Birmingham Barons

Halloween Night: Prepare for a spooky evening as we break out the Halloween decor for an unforgettable night at the ballpark! Stay after for MAX Fireworks Show!

Sunday, August 13 3:33 PM, Birmingham

Backpack Giveaway presented by Whata burger. Check a new backpack off your back to school shopping list!

| Gates: 2:30pm | First

Bring your dog out for some fun in the sun and glove and a ball to play catch in the outfield from 2:30 - 3:00pm. Stick around after the game to take a trip around the bases!

Labor Day Weekend Music Fest

Friday & Saturday, September 1 & 2 Labor Day Weekend music is back at Lake Martin for two nights! YES, two nights of music on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Oh and by the way, there is no charge! Visit www.russelllands. com for more information.

Youth Fishing Rodeo

Saturday, August 5 * 7 am to 11 am

Alabama Nature Center (Lanark), Millbrook

The AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo program is designed to provide Alabama’s youth a chance to experience the outdoors and learn about fishing. Bring the kids, a few fishing poles, and a cooler and join us early this morning down at the catfish pond!

Children 15 and under can catch and take home up to 5 catfish each (catfish only), but can catch and release all they want! Each young angler will receive a t-shirt and will be eligible for door prizes. Snacks and drinks will also be available. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment and bait, though a limited number of loaner rods and reels and some bait will be available on site. Register online at www.alabamawildlife. org/youth-fishing-rodeo/.or call (334-285-4550). Space fills up quickly! Admission is free.

River Region LOBSTER FEST 2023

Friday, August 18 * 5PM * Church of the Ascension, Montgomery

We are flying in fresh lobsters from Maine! Proceeds benefit Ascension Day School and FUMC Respite Ministry. We are having dine-in meals together, but we still have Lobsters To Go if you prefer to pick it up live or cooked! Along with lobster, you will get sides, dessert, bread, butter and lemons. Dine-in also includes a 30-minute reception before the dinner. Please consider making a donation (also available under ticket options) to provide a meal to Memory Care. Visit riverregionlobsterfest.org.

Midtown YMCA

Tailgate BBQ Cook Off

Saturday, August 19 * 11AM - 1:30PM, 3455 Carter Hill Rd, Montgomery Food, family, music, and games! Better yet, bring your own grill and register to enter!

Plus, Cornhole Competition, Kids Play Zone, Football

Toss. $10 per person; $5 for ages 1

0 & under Members AND non-members welcome! For

information: Lachresha DeMoss, ldemoss@ ymcamontgomery.org or (334) 269-4362.

Hot Air Balloon

Glow & Fireworks

Labor Day Weekend * Callaway Gardens

A three-day celebration at Callaway Resort & Gardens! Stay and play all day with garden and beach access, waterfront activities like putt putt, and endless entertainment. After a day full of fun, stay after sundown to watch the beach transform with the light of gigantic, glowing Hot Air Balloons and three nights of fireworks! Visit callawaygardens.org.

Family Movie Night: Finding Nemo

Monday, August 7 * 7:30PM - 9:30PM

Riverfront Park

The City of Montgomery Department of Cultural Affairs and Guardian Credit Union invite you to Family Movie Night at Riverfront Park. Admission is free! Remember to bring your blankets and chairs!

When you think of a preschool teacher, some things that come to mind are nurturing, encouraging, and engaging. They are the first teachers to make an impact on children and parents. They shape the foundation for young minds at an early age.

Teshia Brown, a Pre-K Lead Teacher at Halcyon Elementary, is passionate about her craft. She shares, “It’s something about the early learning experiences I enjoy, and through prayer, where God led me. To be transparent, I will always be a child at heart and feel I can identify with their needs more than older children. I love the art of learning through play and how it impacts their development.

Mrs. Brown graduated with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Alabama State University in Early Childhood Education. She uses her skills to master the art of learning, and teaching doesn’t feel like work. She explains, “The old saying that if you love what you are doing, it’s not work. That’s how I feel about teaching. It’s allowed me to do what I love. It’s allowed me to be a part of my student’s foundation. I ensure they are strong emotionally,

Teshia Brown

Halcyon Elementary School

physically, mentally, socially, etc. No bullying on my watch, and giving them some love along the way is the cherry on top. I try to teach them like they are my own.”

Like all teachers, Mrs. Brown has three goals in her classroom: To nurture healthy relationships with the child, develop family relationships (because they are all in it together), and ensure learning through play. It should be productive, engaging, and hands-on. Teshia believes students hold onto information when it is memorable and impacts them the most. “No one child is the same, and you have to be able to differentiate your daily instruction based on each child’s needs and exposure.”

After teaching, she would still like to involve children in her life in some way during retirement. Whether that is becoming a child advocate, adjunct instructor, daycare mom, or nurturing grandmother, she’s not finished helping children.

Teshia Brown has two daughters: Ariel (22), who just graduated from Florida A&M, and So’Nia (18), headed to The University of Alabama in the fall.

What’s New in MPS This Year

We are gearing up for a transformational year in Montgomery Public Schools. My goal has always been to work to ensure that students are engaging in 21st century learning experiences, and this year we are making strides toward that goal.

There will be some noticeable changes this year and others that may not be as obvious. Below are a few of the things that are different about this school year.

• New website. We are rolling out a new website with greater functionality and a more engaging design. Our goal is to make the website a user-friendly resource you can turn to throughout the school year.

• Leadership team. We also have a newly revamped leadership team that has

already begun working to transform the district. These team members will be out in the schools and community but also will be working behind the scenes as we refine strategies and map the future of MPS. This includes numbers of changes in school principal leadership.

• New school names. Two of our high schools have been renamed. The former Robert E. Lee High School is now Percy Julian High, named for the accomplished scientist. The former Jefferson Davis High School has become JAG High School, for Frank Johnson, Ralph Abernathy and Robert Graetz, three icons of the Civil Rights Movement.

• A new school building. Booker T. Washington Magnet High School students will be going to school in a new building. The school had been housed in a former elementary school after a fire forced the school to move. This new facility is fully equipped to accommodate both the academic and artistic programs the school offers.

• Ninth Grade academy. George Washington Carver High School has a brand-new Ninth Grade Academy under construction and will begin welcoming students who previous

ly would have been attending Sidney Lanier High School. This year, Lanier will house students in grades 10 through 12 as we begin the process of phasing out this school.

• More art and music. Throughout the district, we will have more art and music offerings because we recognize the importance of self-expression and the ways that the arts improve overall academic performance. This is just one of the improvements made possible by the increased local funding the people of Montgomery voted for back in 2020.

I’m excited about this school year and am looking forward to working with our team to take MPS to another level. We see no reason why we cannot be a model school system for the state and the region. The work we do every day will move us closer to this goal. I can’t wait to get started, because as you will hear us say, “there’s more with MPS.”

Melvin J. Brown, Ed.D., is the superintendent of Montgomery Public Schools and previously served as superintendent of Reynoldsburg City Schools in Ohio. He has 24

Montgomery County Schools

ACA Bass Fishing Team Wins State Two Years in a Row

ACA’s Bass Fishing Team are back-to-back ASABFA Classic High School Tournament Champions and 3rd place Team of the Year! We are so proud of this team and all of their hard work and dedication. We are blessed to be a part of a great Christian school like Alabama Christian Academy and thankful to represent them! Thank you to our Coach Randy Gardner for your hard work, guidance, and dedication to this team. Under his leadership three of our boats headed to the 2023 Bassmaster High School National Championship on Lake Hartwell at the end of July.

Congrats to Hayes Finch and JT Lamberth on their 2nd place finish which double qualified them for the National Championship! Congrats to Alexander Costanza and Kade Brannen on their 4th place finish which qualified them for the National Championship!

Congrats to Ethen Gardner and Hayes Boyd on their 24th place finish! They moved up almost 40 places from Day 1, which helped clinch our Classic Team Win. They are also qualified for the National Championship for their 2nd place angler of the year finish in the ASABFA Three River Throwdown.

ECA Senior Class Graduates

Evangel Christian Academy recently held its graduation ceremony for the class of 2023. Family members, faculty and friends gathered together to mark this milestone in the students’ lives. Pastor Michael Rippy, senior pastor of Evangel Church and presi dent of ECA, addressed the students and their guests. During the ceremony a video presentation was shown high lighting each graduate’s life. After the video, the graduates presented roses to their parents. The Valedictorian for the graduating class was Sarah Paterson and the Salutatorian was Cyrek Smith

Saint James Students Earn Global Seal of Biliteracy

Saint James School is proud to announce that five of its high school students have earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy. This means they have reached profi ciency in both English and Spanish. They tested in Spanish for reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Sean Duong, Veronika Kocian, Brea Ledford, Rylee Richardson, and Cora Wojak have earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy. All five of these students received Functional Fluency status. These students are taught by Mrs. Rhea Grate and completed Spanish 3. Saint James offers Spanish classes at

TEA Academy Planning For Successful Year

TEA Academy, Inc. staff and Board Member Leon Allen met to discuss the 2023-2024 school term. The meeting focused on successful school initiatives, the accreditation, staff professional development, recruiting efforts, enrollment, and preparation for a successful year. TEA is committed to the development of the whole student; therefore, orientation with parents and students will be held prior to the beginning of school to discuss the strategic plan for the upcoming year. An enriching technological approach, biblical principles, and intervention meeting strategies with diverse assessments will be the building blocks for a continuous and successful school year as we move forward. TEA Academy will continue to embrace and adhere to its motto: “Taking an Extra Step Towards Educational Excellence.”

According to The Global Biliteracy Seal website, “In a global society where intercultural communication has become increasingly important, the Global Seal provides a unique and recognizable certification of language skills. The Global Seal of Biliteracy provides a universally consistent and inclusive microcredential to increase opportunity for bilinguals from middle school through adulthood. It is our hope that those with language proficiency will credential their skills at one of our three certification levels and then continue to grow their skills in order to ‘Level Up’.”

Macon East Rising Senior Attends Alabama Girls State

Rising senior, Anna Watson represented Macon East Academy at this year’s Alabama Girls State event at Troy University recently. Alabama Girls State is a week-long, fun-filled, hands-on learning opportunity for some of the best and brightest young women in the State of Alabama. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), Alabama Girls State is a premier youth leadership program which offers a one-of-a-kind experience to its delegates. Anna was a member of the Senate and the Federalist Party at Alabama Girls State where she campaigned for the office of county commissioner. Anna looks back on her experience at Girls State “It is a wonderful experience because I got to meet people from all over the state and hear thoughts and ideas different from my own. I made connections with people I would otherwise never encounter.” Selection as a delegate for Alabama Girls State is an honor, and the experience that Anna had through this prestigious program will shape her as a leader at Macon East and in her future endeavors.

MA Athletes Selected AHSAA South All-Stars

Congratulations to our outstanding studentathletes, Win Berry (soccer), William Hall (golf),

Montgomery County Schools

Macon East Cheer Squads Attend UCA Camp

Macon East Academy’s Junior Varsity and Varsity cheer squads recently attended UCA’s cheerleading camp for AISA schools. The annual camp held at Troy University offered an exciting week of learning new material and stunts for the upcoming season as well as evaluations from the staff and end of the week competitions. Senior Kaiden Byrom was selected as an AISA All-Star and will represent Macon East at the all-star football and basketball games. Alexis Davis received UCA’s coveted “Pin It Forward” honors from the camp staff for leadership, spirit, and motivation. Three Macon East Varsity cheerleaders (Kacy Rutland, Kaiden Byrom, and Alexis Davis) were selected as UCA All-American Cheerleaders. Macon East’s Varsity was awarded 2nd place for cheer and 3rd place for sideline on the last day of the camp. Both our Varsity and Junior Varsity squads received blue superior ribbons all week and were awarded Top Banana. The Top Banana is awarded to the teams at camp that demonstrate qualities of leadership, spirit, and the overall ability to work hard while still having a blast! Our JV Squad was awarded 1st place in camp dance and 4th place in sideline. Bella Ann Spires was selected as an UCA All-American and was a Jump-Off finalist. Alumnus Rai Pritchett and Summer Kyser both worked with the squads and joined them at Troy University for great leadership and such a fun cheerleading camp. The Macon East cheerleaders are looking forward to cheering on the Knights during the upcoming football season.

Montgomery Academy Girls Volleyball Team Earns Academic Award

Congratulations to The Montgomery Academy’s 2022-23 Varsity Girls Volleyball squad and their leader, Coach Julie Gordon, on their recent recognition by the American Volleyball Coaches Association for excellence in the classroom! The team earned the USMC/AVCA Team Academic Award for maintaining a year-long grade-point average of at least 3.3 (on a 4.0 scale). Additionally, the Eagles Volleyball Team achieved placement on the Team Academic Honor Roll,

Saint James Josephine Foshee Named IEA Hunt Seat National Champion

Saint James freshman Josephine

Foshee

has been named as the 2023 In terscholastic Equestrian Association

Hunt Seat National Champion.

Josephine represented the Varsity Trojans Equestrian Team at the 2023 IEA Hunt Seat National Finals in Tryon, North Carolina.

Josephine was competing in the 2 ft. Hunt Seat division. In order to compete in Nationals, Josephine had to accrue enough points in the regular season and Zones. Her first-place finish at Zones secured her spot at the National Finals.

Saint James School is proud to be the only school in Alabama to support an Equestrian Team for its student body. Congratulations to Josephine on this incredible accomplishment!

Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Fourth Graders Create Alabama’s State Cookie

Curriculum, collaboration, and a unique K3-12 campus created a recipe for sweet success. Fourth graders in Trinity School`s Alabama History classes took a routine trip to the library and with the help , embarked on a memorable journey of discovery, researching Alabama’s state symbols for the oldest and most unusual to include in a multimedia presentation for class. It quickly became clear that Alabama did not have a state cookie, and a new and exciting mission was launched! The fourth grade classes started baking, hoping to create a recipe that embodied the state of Alabama. The class taste-tested twenty four different recipes, evaluating them not only on taste, which was very important, but also on the ingredients. From there the Alabama Yellowhammer Cookie was born! Thank you for the hard work of the Trinity Presbyterian School fourth grade classes who supported the vote of the Yellowhammer cookie, submitted by fellow 4th grader Mary Claire Cook, as the winning recipe. The Julia Bennett, Hudson Cornett, Luke Harrison, Russell Powell, and Margaret Roby, was instrumental.

Alabama House of Representative member Reed Ingram and Senator Will Barfoot partnered with the students and sponsored House Bill 421. The bill passed unanimously through both the House of Representatives and the Senate. On Friday, June 2, 2023, Alabama Governor, Kay Ivey, signed House Bill 421 into law which officially made the Yellowhammer Cookie the state cookie of Alabama. “Sweet Home Alabama just officially got a little sweeter!” Ivey said after signing the bill into law.

Saint

James School Students Take Home StateTech Awards

Saint James School is proud to announce that many of its students have received awards in various technology fairs that they entered. The ACTE State Tech Fair and AISA Tech Fair are excellent ways for students interested in a variety of technology skills to show what they can do. From high school, the following students were awarded for their participation in the ACTE Tech Fair at the State level.

In Level 5, Alex Ruona placed 1st in Hardware Modification; Brooke Bender was awarded 2nd Place Website Design; and Selina Sun won 1st Place in Multimedia. In Level 4, Stella Kim won 1st Place in Multimedia. At the middle school Level of the ACTE Tech Fair, a number of students also were rewarded for their hard work. At Level 2, Molly Phillips won 1st place in Audio, Yeriel Kim placed 1st in Multimedia, and Emerson Weeks placed 1st in Video Production. Matilda Butner and Sean Woessner won 1st place in Digital Games. Aileen Mulligan placed 2nd in Robotics. In Level 3, Aidan Saldanha won 1st place in Video Production.

In the AISA Tech Fair High School Division, Liam Seo placed 1st in Programming, and Jaxon Mason placed 2nd in Programming. Saint James is so proud of the hard work and dedication of these students and their teachers. Saint James offers technology classes at all division levels.

ACA Hosted Amazing Summer Camps

ACA had several different camps on campus this year! Besides the amazing Camp Eagle and Nest Camp, we added two weeks of science camps, a musical theater camp and several different sports camps. Science camp was a hit!

Students were busy digging for dinosaurs, squishy circuits, ice cream in a bag, kitchen chemistry and other fun experiments. At musical theater camp students learned several different musical numbers and did a performance at the end of it. All of the sports camps were a hit, and the kids had a blast learning new drills. Every year it is such a fun experience for the kids to be able to come to campus and spend time with these coaches and teachers outside of the classroom setting.

Montgomery County Schools

Rising Montgomery Academy Senior Participates in Boys State

Rising Montgomery Academy senior Mason Kim participated in the annual Boys State experience at Troy University. Mason served as a House representative and County revenue commissioner for the week.

“It was a great honor to represent our school and serve as a House representative and County revenue commissioner.” Alabama Boys State is one of the highest honors granted to Alabama students. Students from across the state are chosen based on their demonstration of leadership, hard work, strong morals, and motivation in school and community activities. At Boys State, student delegates will find the opportunity to build new friendships, participate in a mock government, and hear from and meet a diverse array of Alabama leaders such as Congressmen, state elected officials, business

Churchill’s New LocationSame Commitment to Students

Churchill Academy, Inc. is excited to announce our new location for the 20232024 school year! For the up-coming school year, we will be located in two local churches – Taylor Road Baptist Church (1685 Taylor Road) for our lower school, K-8th grade and First Christian Church (1705 Taylor Road) for our upper school, 9th-12th grade. We are so appreciative to these congregations for assisting us in housing our school. Our building was sold last winter, leaving parents and educators diligently working to secure a new location and to convert the school to a non-profit. Churchill Academy continues to be a member of AISA and is accredited by Cognia-SACS. Visit our website: https://www.churchillacademyinc.org/. Please contact one of our administrators if you have questions about the school or application process.

Evangel Christian Names Mr. and Miss ECA

Evangel Christian Academy recently named the school’s 2023 Mr. and Miss ECA during the High School Awards Day ceremony. Jazni Lewis and Jordan Sharp were chosen for this distinguished honor. The two seniors were chosen by the faculty and student body. Jazni and Jordan were chosen because of their Christian testimonies as well as their academic and leadership skills.

Summative and Formative Assessments Applies to Staff Too at TEA Academy

Summative assessment is an important part of the learning cycle, and ultimate only comes with excellent preparation. Therefore, as TEA Academy prepares for the upcoming school year, they have conducted theirsessments as a school and team, and they are ready for their everyday Formative Assessment challenges.

According to Dr. Maggie McElroy-Washington, the principal and CEO of TEA Academy, says all staff must be committed to going that extra mile if they expect the student to be committed to learning. As educators we must provide quality services to the students, which means teaching and helping every student to be successful, keeping in compliance with the continuous improvement plan as an accredited school. Team TEA commitment is to provide quality education to all students...

Because They Matter!

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

Evangel Christian Academy

Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential

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

Accredited:

AISA Blue Ribbon School

Montgomery County Schools

MA Rising Senior Attends Alabama Girls State

Sarah Kate Ingram, a rising senior at The Montgomery Academy, attended the 2023 edition of Alabama Girls State as MA’s appointed representative. Alabama Girls State is a week-long, fun-filled, hands-on learning opportunity for some of the best an brightest young women in the State of Alabama. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), Alabama Girls State is a premier youth leadership program that offers a one-of-a-kind experience to its delegates.

“Attending Alabama Girls State at Troy University was an amazing experience!! I was able to meet some of the most accom plished girls from all over the state. Upon arrival, we were assigned to cities and also divided into two fictitious political parties for elections. I was assigned to the city of Yellowhammer and was a part of the Federalist political party. We got to see first-hand how the election process takes place and how political parties work from the inside. At our Federalist party caucus meetings, w set our party platform that served as the basis for election speeches. Each city elected a Mayor that held meetings each night. There were also numerous statewide offices up for election. We heard speeches from girls in our party and then elected a Federalist representative who went on to run against the Nationalist Party representative. Interspersed among speeches and elections, we heard from many speakers including Senator Katie Britt and Governor Kay Ivey, who are both Girls State Alumni. In addition, most afternoons were spent debating and passing bills. The days were long but filled with countless memories of wonderful experiences and new friendships. I am forever thankful for my week at Girls State.”

Saint James Performing Arts Performs You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown

The Saint James School Performing Arts Department produced its annual spring musical on April 20-23, 2023. This year the show was You’re A Good Man

Charlie Brown

The Saint James show was directed by Lonny Harrison with musical direction by Dr. Sallye York. The show featured many well-known Peanuts scenes. Students from elementary, middle, and high schools combined their talents to make an incredible show! Live musical accompaniment was pro vided by Dr. Sally York on piano, Mr. Andy Martin on percussion, and senior Selina Sun on clarinet. Leading roles included Austin Oh as Charlie Brown, Jimmie Thompson as Snoopy, Lizzy Dickens as Lucy, Mary Ann Coon as Sally, Alex McIlwain as Schroeder, Jacob McNally Linus, and Abigail Roark as Peppermint Patty. Other student roles included Eva Light as Violet Gray, Matilda Butner as Matilda, TJ Vance as Franklin, Zachary Rains as Pig Pen, MaryEllis Killough as Frieda, Nathaniel Sherbine as Shermy and Jaxon Mason as Roy. The Peanuts Gang Included Vara York, Maddy Stuart, Kinsley Barber, Evelyn Bond, Arin Oh, John Wilson McDowell, Joy Seo, Ae’riel Hooks, Sarah Elizabeth Phillips, Bethany Stanton, Sadie York, Cecilia York, and Amley Hooks. Stage manager Lily Everett oversaw the student crews and production. Saint James students also worked the production as backstage crew, publicity, sound crew, house crew, lighting, and costumes. Set design was created by senior with the assistance of the Saint

Bridge Builders of Alabama Holds Junior and Senior Summer Conferences

Bridge Builders of Alabama held its annual youth leadership conferences during the month of June. During the week of June 12-14, Junior Conference was held, and Senior Conference happened on June 19-21. Students from public schools, private schools, home schools, and parochial schools learned leadership skills and communication skills which will enable them to learn to value each other’s differences and work as a team. Bridge Builders offers the only free of charge leadership training of this type to the youth of the River Region.

The first day of each 3-day long conference was held on the campus of Saint James School. Students were able to get to know each other in teams. Bridge Builder Facilitators worked with the students as they tackled a variety of activities focusing on team-building exercises, leadership development, and helping students learn things about each other and ways to work together better. Day 2 activities were held at The Lab located on Dexter Avenue. Mr. Richard Bradford of Renasant Bank and a Bridge Builders Board member spoke on handling money responsibly, how to handle checking accounts, savings, and money investment. This workshop gave insight into real world skills. That afternoon the students enjoyed discussions focusing on STEM projects led by Mr. Zachary Lewis. The final day was based out of St. John’s Episcopal Church from which students ventured to the Equal Justice Initiative Memorial and Museum. The discussions that took place after these visits were integral to the understanding of race relations and history. Executive Director Ellen Farmer said, “Both the Junior and Senior conferences this year were very powerful. The students were eager to learn and connect with their peers. It was a beautiful thing to watch students from all different backgrounds come together and build lasting relationships with each other. I always tell them ‘the youth of today are the leaders of their future’ in hopes to help them understand the importance of a leader and making a positive difference in the world today.”

Bridge Builders Alabama was founded in 2007. At the beginning of the program, the students committed to a two-year program. The focus was, and is, teaching skills such as civic responsibility, critical thinking, trust, problem solving, communication, conflict resolution, human relations, and leadership. The first graduating class of students was in 2009, including students from Booker T. Washington Magnet, Brewbaker Technology Magnet, Carver High School, Jefferson Davis High School, Montgomery Academy, Montgomery Catholic School, Revelation Missionary Baptist, Robert E. Lee High School, Saint James School, Sidney Lanier High School, St. Jude Academy, and United Christian Church. In 2018, the Bridge Builders Board adjusted the program to two one-year programs. Students can participate in one year or both years during their junior and senior years. Moving forward into the school year, the students will be responsible for required hours of community service offered through the year. The students will get to choose from a number of non-profits that need help in the River Region.

New Athletic Director at Montgomery Academy

The Montgomery Academy is pleased to announce the appointment of as Athletic Director, effective July 1, 2023.

School in Huntsville, AL where he has served as the Associate Director of Athletics since 2017. Coach Ward began his teaching and coach ing career in 2008 at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta, GA as the Athletic Office Administrative Assistant, Varsity Boys Bas ketball Coach and Assistant Football Coach. He helped lead the Westminster Varsity Boys Basketball team to playoff appearances in 2009, 2010 and 2013. In 2013, Coach Ward moved to Randolph School where he taught History, was the chair of the Middle School Physical Education department, and coached boys and girls basketball and football at both the Middle School and Varsity levels. Coach Ward graduated from Furman University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and received his Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of North Georgia.

“I am thrilled to welcome Wright Ward and his family to the MA community,” said Head of School John McWilliams. “As a teacher, coach and as athletic administrator, Wright has extensive experience in outstanding independent schools in Alabama and Georgia, and it is clear that he understands the vital role that interscholastic athletics play in supporting our mission as a school of developing leaders. I look forward to working with him as we continue our ‘pursuit of excellence’ at MA.”

“My family and I couldn’t be more excited to be joining Montgomery Academy!” said Ward. “From the moment I set foot on campus, I could tell it was a special place and that feeling continued to grow as I met more and more of the MA community, including parents, faculty and staff, and most importantly, the students. We can’t wait to get there, and are proud to say ‘Go Eagles!’”

Pike Road Schools Welcomes New Junior High Principal

Please join us in welcoming Christy Owen Wright to Pike Road Schools. Christy has been married to husband, Michael Wright, for ten years and has four children, Tate and Emory Owen and Alex and Izzy Wright. She has been an educator for sixteen years, including eight years of administrative experience. For the past four years, she was Assistant Principal at Holtville High School.

Mrs. Wright shares, “I have already discovered that PRJHS has a very talented group of Lead Learners, but parents and community stakeholders are also integral members of the learner’s team. Therefore, I look forward to meeting you all very soon as we begin our journey toward academic excellence together.” Mrs. Wright is passionate about helping learners see their full potential and creating a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for them to excel...Rooted in Growth!

Pike Road Patriot Band Camp

Week 1 of band camp was a true highlight as one of our lunches was sponsored by the recent graduates of PRHS Class of 2023, and they showed up to serve lunch to our current band

Pike Road Students Shine at Summer Show-Offs

From July 10th to July 14th, talented rising 1st through 12th graders gathered for an unforgettable experience. Throughout the week, they dedicated themselves to learning vocals and choreography for five sensational songs. Their hard work and passion for music and dance were truly inspiring. The final performance on July 14th left the audience in awe. The energy and talent displayed by each participant were absolutely incredible. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the campers, their families, and our amazing staff for making this year’s Summer Showoffs a resounding success.

Macon East Graduate Goes on TROYventure

Glamping and yoga on the quad, shopping downtown, photoshoots, pool parties and more - TROYventure was a dream come true for recent Macon East Academy graduate, Anna Glynn Lott ! Anna Glynn was chosen to be a Social Media Ambassador for Troy University based on her College Decision Day choice to attend TROY, resume, academic achievements, and public presence on social media. She had the opportunity to experience all things TROY in just 2 days! From meeting faculty and alumni, making new friends and getting to know more about the campus and the City of Troy, it was an adventure she will never forget!

“Anna Glynn Lott, who plans to major in nursing at TROY, agreed that the band party was among her favorite activities. “My favorite event was the band party in downtown Troy and being able to hang out with all of the girls and experience what it is like to live in Troy and be a part of the community,” she said. TROYventure also provided evidence for those who participated that they, indeed, had made the right college choice. Anna Glynn is beyond excited to tell the incredible story of Troy University through her own eyes!

Autauga County Schools

Marbury High School’s SRO Honored for Heroic Actions in January Tornados

Robby Johnson, Autauga County Sheriff Deputy and Marbury High School’s School Resource Officer, was awarded The Alabama Association of School Resource Officers (TA ASRO) Life Saving Award for his heroic actions and exemplary service while on duty at the high school on January 12, 2023. This award is given to an SRO or school staff member for the act of saving a life and is presented during the organization’s annual Safe Schools Conference.

The massive tornado decimated parts of north Au tauga County leaving a warlike path of destruction severely limiting accessibility and spreading thin first responders from across the River Region. Deputy Johnson administered first aid treatment for 45 minutes until an ambulance was able to transport all three victims to the hospital for further treatment. His emergency training and quick action allowed all three victims to make a full recovery without any complications. In the days after the tornado, Deputy Johnson and his Autauga County Sheriff’s Department colleagues aided in the search, rescue, and security of the impacted areas.

“Robby is everything that is commendable and worthy of immolating in a School Resource Officer,” said Tony Camara, Coordinator of Operations for Autauga County Schools. “As the one charged with safety and security in our school district, I rely on these guys to keep our students and employees safe in everyday and extraordinary situations. Deputy Johnson’s immediate instinctual action in the midst of chaos is the very thing that we need in today’s unpredictable world.”

Prattville Show Choir Members Attend Camp

A few of Prattville High School’s Spotlight Show Choir members enjoyed performing cutting-edge show choir shows under the direction of some of the nation’s top vocal directors and choreographers at this year’s Showchoir Camps of America. The nearly 500 students, including ACS’ Jaci Cone and Madison Cruse, participated in workshops, watched evening performances by Broadway and pop stars, and auditioned for dance ensembles, vocal jazz ensembles, and a talent showcase.

Summer Camp Fun at Pine Level Elementary

At Pine Level Elementary School this summer we hosted Summer Camp for our students. The students pictured are using cooking sheets and magnetic letters to build the alphabet arc. The alphabet arc is a good way for children to have visual and multisensory support to practice blending, segmenting and auditory processing. It also allows them to practice the sequence of the alphabet. These skills are essential for reading and spelling.

Volumes of Fun at D.P.E.S.

Fifth graders in Ms. Bradley’s math class worked in groups to construct zoo animals using rectangular prisms. Groups measured the dimensions of the boxes to determine the total volume for each zoo animal. Boxes were then wrapped to showcase student creativity and make their designs come to life!

PCA Girls State Representative

Julia Smith ‘24 represented PCA at Girls State held at Troy University. The competi tive leadership program is focused on teaching responsible citizenship, leadership, and love for God. Julia described it as a “life-changing experi ence” that equipped her with the skills and confidence to stand up for her beliefs. In some ways, her experience was “indescribable.”

Prattville Intermediate Professional Development

This summer, several faculty members from Prattville Intermediate School were able to attend the professional development conference, Get Your Teach On. Get Your Teach On (GYTO) specializes in professional development and encouragement for educators and administrators in the form of conferences, workshops and events. Our teachers were able to gain valuable insight and learned tricks, tips, and teacher secrets to build successful, engaging and rigorous classrooms that challenge the students of

Prattville High Graduate Excels at National Debate Tournament

Brooklyn Woods graduated from Prattville High School in May 2023 as a highly decorated member of the Speech and Debate Team as well as Senior Class President. As a member of the debate team, Brooklyn learned critical thinking, writing and presentation skills and showcased these qualities in competitive civil discourse where she explored both sides of an argument. As a junior, Brooklyn was State Champion in Programmed Oral Interpretation (POI) and Poetry and repeated as State Champion in POI again her senior year. In February of 2023, she competed in the Mockingbird Speech and Debate District Tournament held in Birmingham and, since she placed first in her event, she qualified for the National Speech and Debate Tournament held last month in Phoenix, Arizona. Katie Olienyk, Brooklyn’s Debate Coach, took three PHS students to Arizona where they competed against 275 students from across the country. Brooklyn ultimately finished in the top thirty in the nation - she is the fifth Prattville High Student to place in the top 30 since 2006. Brooklyn will attend the University of Alabama this fall where she was awarded a full-tuition scholarship to be a member of the award winning UA Forensic Council. She will be traveling throughout the country competing. Brooklyn is the 16th Prattville High School student to receive the full tuition scholarship since 2006.

Autauga County Schools

Career and Technical Education Students Earn Hundreds of Program Certifications

Autauga County Schools students were awarded 265 Career Readiness Indicator (CRI) certifications during the 2022-2023 school year. These CRI certifications ensure alignment with industry-recognized standards and are available to secondary students throughout the district as a part of ACS’ Career and Technical Education program offered through the Autauga County Technology Center.

Career Readiness certifications and credentials provide students with the industry-required skills necessary to compete in today’s economic environment, producing globally competitive students with 21st-century skills, as well as validating knowledge of skill attainment, increasing student confidence, higher income potential, opening doors for industry networking, and demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning. “We want to give every student in our district the opportunity to be as successful as they desire to be,” said Holly McNider, Curriculum and Instruction Director for Autauga County Schools. “Our district’s career and technical program provides for dozens of industry opportunities that can be customized based on the student’s plans beyond high school. Graduating with immediate employability skills or a deeper understanding of the pathway a student pursues with additional education is a win for everyone, most certainly for the student, but also our community and the organizations that operate here in our area.”

Autauga County Schools currently offers 14 of the 16 national career clusters. These clusters include courses that teach academic and technical knowledge and skills students need to pursue various career industries. To learn more about Autauga County Schools’ career and technical education programs, visit www.autaugatech.com/.

Books n Bagels at Daniel Pratt Elementary

Mrs. Dickerson’s 6th grade students enjoy participating in “Books n Bagels” in her classroom. They start by having a book scavenger hunt. Students then break into small groups to share about the books they are currently reading. Lastly, they get some time to silent read while eating bagels and other treats. This helps students see reading as a shared experience rather than an assignment.

PCA UCA Cheer Camp at Auburn University

PCA’s cheer teams headed to Auburn University for UCA Cheer Camp and came away with long-lasting memories, new skills, awards, and experiences. PCA concluded the camp with the entire PCA program winning the Leadership Award, an award voted on by the 500+ cheerleaders at camp. Each camper is asked if they could be on any other cheer team, which would it be? PCA being chosen for the Leadership Award speaks volumes to our program and the examples they set for other cheerleaders. Varsity won 1st place in the Camp Routine and Sideline, and JV was awarded a Superior trophy. PCA also ended with six All-Americans: Ella Grace Byrd, Brady Hardman, Mady Roy, Eboni McKee, Rich Moxley, and Anabelle Weedon. Three members were invited to join the UCA staff: Pearson Goff, Brady Hardman, and Ella Montiel. Our mascot, Prowler, also won the mascot Mushy and the School Traditions Award. We are so proud of our cheer program and all they accomplished last week! Congratulations!

PCA Attends Volleyball Camp in Foley

PCA’s Volleyball teams traveled to Foley to participate in the ACE Volleyball Team camp! The varsity team came out Silver Bracket Champions, and the JV team made it to the gold bracket, where Anniston Robison was awarded the Backbone award!

To top it off, Bayside Academy’s legendary AHSAA volleyball Coach, Ann Schilling, helped as the varsity’s court coach over the week and awarded Leah Cate Wilson the “Awesome Attitude Award.”

Macon East Students Participate in AISA All-Star Football

The 2023-2024 school year is off to a great start in Elmore County! All our schools are bustling with staff and students settling into their schedules and routines.

Macon East Fourth Graders Enjoy Field Trip

The issue of school safety – physical and psychological –is a major area of focus for Elmore County. Physical safety involves protecting students from violence, exposure to weapons and threats, illegal substances, etc. Psychological safety efforts promote building trust among staff, students, and families and creating an environment that empowers students to report safety concerns. Keeping our schools safe allows students to concentrate on academics and extracurricular activities, thus helping them to reach their full potential. Specific actions we take to improve school safety include the annual update and Board approval of our Student Handbook and Code

Ms. Johnson’s fourth grade class enjoyed an educational field trip this past Friday that goes along with their study of Alabama State History. The students were able to tour Alabama’s historic Capitol. They were able to view the beautiful rotunda, the spiral staircase, the Avenue of Flags, and the portraits of the former governors. The students also enjoyed touring The First White House of the Confederacy and The Alabama Department of Archives and History. Their special treat added to an already fun-filled day was eating lunch at Chris’ Famous Hot Dogs. Special thanks to Mrs. Custard and her daughter for taking time to guide us and give their expertise at all these historic places.

Eight Macon East student-athletes were honored to participate in the 2022 AISA All-Star Football game held December 2 at Cramton Bowl. Deonte Powell, Sanders Manning, Gabe Spencer and Hunter Tillman all represented Macon East for the East team. Gabe Spencer was honored as Most Outstanding Offensive Back for the East team. Madison May, Ar’monni Payne, Hannah Kate Hodges and Mikalah Belser cheered the East team on from the sidelines as part of the all-star cheerleading squad. The participants enjoyed a few days of practice with their fellow AISA teammates. The East team beat the West team this year 36-22.

of Conduct. This year, we will also implement a threat assessment process to help us manage safety-related situations on school campuses. All Elmore County Public Schools staff are expected to wear a photo identification badge while on campus. All visitors must be checked in through the Raptor Visitor Management System and wear a printed photo identification badge at all times while in the building. A retired law enforcement officer has conducted a security audit of all school system facilities to identify areas for improvement, and we are addressing these areas. Finally, additional school resource officers (SROs) are in place throughout the system. Despite these safeguards, we still depend on our staff and students to remain diligent and heed “if you see something, say something” by reporting suspicious activity to school administrators.

Finally, mental health resources for students and staff are readily available. We have begun implementing the Teen Mental Health First Aid program at the high school level. This program teaches students how to

identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance abuse use challenges among their friends and peers. Plans are in progress to expand this training during this school year. Students at all grade levels are encouraged to reach out to their teachers, counselors, or other trusted adult on campus when they need help of any kind. Our employee assistance program is offered through American Behavioral. We also partner with other agencies to provide services and/or make referrals as needed.

Elmore County is committed to providing high-quality instruction in a safe environment and the necessary academic, social-emotional, and mental health support for our students and staff. Our goal remains: Every Student Empowered – Every Student Succeeds.

Pike Road High School Leo Club Collects Chrismtas Toys for Kids

Our Leo club did a great job collecting toys to help make Christmas merry and bright for lots of children!

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.

Elmore County Schools

ECTC Hospitality Students Assist with Chamber Luncheon

Students from ECTC’s Hospitality & Tourism program teamed up with Front Porch Grill to serve at the Millbrook Chamber annual awards luncheon.

Med Students from ECTC Attend Conference

Two ECTC Medical Sciences stuAllye Justiss and Kirsten Cummings, both from Elmore County High School, competed at HOSA’s International Leadership Conference

Wetumpka Middle Cheer Team Attends Camp

Out WMS Cheer Team enjoyed their week at CHEER CAMP with Coach Duncan and Coach Lee. Take a look at a few of our AMAZING squad’s accomplishments while at Auburn’s UCA Cheer Camp.

Two All Americans: Lauren Avery Castro & Chloe Strength; Pin it Forward recipient: Xion Morris. The team placed: 3rd in Sideline, 3rd in Camp Dance, 4th in Cheer, 4th in GameDay Overall Performance and much more! Way to go ladies!

Elmore County Students Visit

WSFA Weather Camp

Kharli (WES), Adelyn (RES), and Mason (HMS) were chosen for the WSFA weather camp, along with other students from the River Region. They were recently live during Today in Alabama and they showed it again in the 5 PM Weather.

Wetumpka High Students Earn Research Fellowship

Addison Sims and Anna VanErmen were accepted into a summer research program at the department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at Auburn University. They both received a Microbial Genomics and Evolution summer research fellowship.

This was an awesome opportunity as they got to learn about microbial science, genomics and get hands-on experience in research in the lab. They spent two weeks learning about computational biology and doing various wet-lab experiments in this amazing program which encourages a passion for STEM.

Why Your Young Athlete’s Social Media Matters

Do you have an athlete in your home? If you do, this article is definitely for you. My husband and I raised two athletes. Our sons have been playing baseball since they were four years old. My youngest has actually tackled all three sports, baseball, basketball, and football. And up until my oldest graduated this year, we did not know what lazy beach summer vacations looked like. If it didn’t involve dirt, a bunch of stinky boys, temps hotter than the face of the sun, folding chairs, and a lot of baseballs, we weren’t doing it. I would not trade those days for anything.

While my kids were good at their sports, they were not great. Meaning they were off the scholarship to college and beyond level. However, there are A LOT of kids that are. And they put in massive amounts of sweat equity to secure those scholarships. I have witnessed so many athletes (girls and guys) lose their place on their high school teams and their potential for college scholarships due to misuse of their social media. I will share a few ways to mitigate this and how to use their social media to get noticed in the RIGHT way when looking for scholarships.

Athletes need to remember they are in a position to represent themselves and the school. This brings a lot of pressure

and some scrutiny. Some ways to ensure they do not attract the wrong type of attention to themselves are:

(1) Keep it clean. No foul language. No inappropriate picture sending. Basically, no junk.

(2) Keep it kind. Always support your teammates. And never...and I mean NEVER...use their platform to make fun of or bash other teams.

(3) Remember that the coaches and recruiters that they want to notice them WILL be looking at their social media. So if it is something your mom, dad, or grandma would be embarrassed that you posted, chances are a recruiter will not like it either.

(4) Ask your athlete to go back through their social media all the way to middle school. And remove anything that does not represent them how they want to be represented.

Athletes can also use social media to gain exposure to recruiters. Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube have allowed teen athletes to showcase their skills and achievements. They can post highlights, training videos, and game footage, allowing college coaches and recruiters to discover them. This increased exposure has made it easier

for athletes to get noticed and considered for scholarships.

Social media makes personal brand ing easy. It allows teen athletes to create and maintain their brand. They can showcase their personality, values, and work ethic, making them more appealing to college coaches.

They can communicate directly with college coaches and recruiters. Many col leges and universities use social media to announce scholarship offers and com mitments from athletes. This information is readily available to the public, allowing athletes to celebrate their achievements and gain recognition from their peers, family, and friends.

Bottom line: There is great opportunity for our athletes to increase viability and help reach their scholarship goals. But they must remember that college coaches and recruiters often monitor athletes’ social media accounts to gain a sense of their character and decisionmaking. Inappropriate or offensive posts can jeopardize scholarship opportunities, so athletes must be mindful of their online presence.

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

I am not a morning person. Life at home with my toddlers used to be filled with mornings cuddling in PJs. Arriving at preschool on time was a challenge; I was often late. When my son started kindergarten, I was determined to get my act together and break the cycle. I gleaned ideas from the web, talked to other moms and put a system in place. I use these tips to get up and out the door in 45 minutes each morning.

Use Sunday Wisely

Think ahead and prepare for the week on Sunday; it helps save time in the long run.

1. Bag snacks, fruits and veggies for the week to save time on busy sports practice and running-around days. Doing this in advance also gives you a head’s up if stocking up on lunchbox staples is necessary, thereby avoiding last-minute shopping trips.

2. Use an organizing system to put together school outfits for the week. I bought a hanging system for my son’s closet with a compartment for each day. Every Sunday, we check the weather for the upcoming week and put outfits in each compartment. Sometimes my son wants to choose his clothes; sometimes he lets me choose. There is never an argument, question, or decision to make about what to wear in the morning.

3. Put an organizing system by the door for shoes and backpacks. Professional organizers often recommend an area with hooks for backpacks and a rack below for shoes. Having homework and permission slips ready in the backpack the night before is crucial.

The Night Before

4. Make lunches the night before. This includes filling water bottles.

5. Set the table for breakfast after doing the dinner dishes. You’re already in the kitchen; getting it all done at once makes sense.

In the Morning

6. Keep breakfast simple. Cereal with toast, yogurt or fruit keeps us on the go. Try to sit down and have breakfast as soon as the kids get up. This avoids the grab-and-go breakfast that research shows can lead to obesity. It also helps avoid last-minute spills on school clothes that could cause a meltdown for kids or parents.

Try this savvy breakfast trick: Always bake a double batch of muffins and freeze the extras. That way, the kids can just take one out and warm it in the microwave.

If you have a picky eater who wants a hot breakfast, try toaster waffles, make-ahead egg muffins or bagels.

7. Have your child use an alarm clock. We bought a Yoda alarm clock and gave it to our son as a present as he entered kindergarten. He was excited by the unexpected gift and in turn, was excited to use it. I was amazed when he skipped into the dining room each morning at 6:15 a.m., ready to start his day.

8. Most parents agree with this rule: No electronics before school. They are way too distracting.

9. With older children, get creative! A fun way to get tweens out of bed and moving is to turn on music in their rooms. Make it nice and loud and then sing and dance (if necessary), substituting words with phrases about waking up and getting moving. Groans may soon turn into laughter and they start preparing for the school day.

There is no magic and no two families are alike. Figure out what works for your family, then put a system in place. Planning ahead will help start the day in a more positive, less frazzled way. rrp

by Kimberley Carter Spivey

It’s that time again! Back to school is here, and the busy hustle and bustle schedule begins for many parents. With school-aged children, extracurricular activities will be in full swing. A local mom shares one of her quick and delicious recipes to take the stress out of your weeknight cooking.

Susan Chain has a multigenerational family in Wetumpka. She’s originally from Texas, but Alabama has been her home for 20 years. She and her husband, John, have been mar ried for 56 years. They have two children, ten grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. They also enjoy the luxury of retirement. Their daughter, Stephanie, is married to Mark McGuire, and the couple has been married for 15 years with three grown children and

seven grandchildren. Stephanie is the Office Manager for Southland Transportation in Montgomery, and Mark works for the Department of Labor in Montgomery.

Susan shares, “We love to eat and feed our family. Stephanie and I both love

sions about a family res taurant with her famous burgers and brisket and John’s great steaks, but they prefer not to put in the massive amount of time it would take. Instead, they enjoy cooking and being together as a family whenever possible.

Susan says, “I cook a mean beef brisket. It’s usually a 12- 15 lb. brisket. I trim it, marinate in a rub, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and set it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Then I slow cook at 225 degrees for 12-13 hours in the oven overnight. It is so tender you can cut it with a plastic fork.”

While cooking, some of Susan’s favorite things to use are Pampered Chef cookware and utensils. And her favorite skillets are 14inch Granite Stone and iron skillets.

One of the family’s favorite traditions is cooking Mexican food at Christmas. They’ve been doing it for over 30 years. Several family members cook tacos, enchiladas, fajitas (chicken and steak), guacamole, rice, beans, pico de galo, and salsa that day.

This month, Susan shares a quick and tasty meal handed down in the family. It’s perfect for your school night menu.

Italian Pasta Stir Fry

Ingredients

16 oz. pack of Linguine

1 lb. cubed chicken (seasoned with lemon pepper)

2 medium zucchini, sliced

3-4 Roma tomatoes, diced

1 medium purple onion, diced

1 1/2 tsp. minced garlic

2 Tbsp. olive oil

Grated parmesan cheese

Directions

Boil water and cook linguine according to package directions. In a medium skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil, zucchini, tomatoes, onion, and garlic, and saute until crispy and tender. In a large bowl, add cooked linguine, chicken, and vegetables. Stir and add parmesan cheese. Serve with salad and garlic bread.

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

The years seem to pick up speed as your child gets older. One minute they are getting on the bus for kindergarten, and in the blink of an eye, they are walking across the stage at their high school graduation. Don’t let those years go by in a blur. Capture the first day of school with a tradition the kids will look forward to every year.

Freeze a memory

1. Drive to your local high school a few days before school starts. Capture a picture of your child standing by the marquee or in front of the building near the front door. You can also catch a picture of your child gazing up at the school while wearing his backpack. Taken every year, this makes a great collage of photos to display at their high school graduation party.

2. Every year before school starts, purchase a Time magazine and a People magazine. Have him pose with the covers to show what was in the news that year.

3. Buy a t-shirt from the high school spirit store in an adult size. Take a picture of the child wearing the shirt with her backpack on the ground next to her. It is a great way to show how she and her choice of backpacks change over the years.

4. Pose your student standing next to mom or dad in front of the house. Bring enough books for your child to stand on until he is as tall as his parent. As the years go by and your child grows, the child will need fewer and fewer books to stand on. In his high school pictures, Mom might be the one standing on the books.

5. Don’t forget to get a picture of Mom and Dad on the first day of school. Capture mom’s tears as the bus drives away and don’t miss Mom and Dad high fiving as the last child leaves the house.

Cook up something good

1. The night before school starts, bake a round loaf of bread and place a clean penny in the dough before it bakes. Before dinner, have all the kids hold on to a piece of the bread and break it off. The one that gets the penny will have extra good luck this year at school.

2. Start the day off right with a special breakfast. Choose a traditional breakfast of eggs and toast, whip up a smoothie for a light and healthy meal or lighten the mood with something silly like cookie cutter pancakes with whipped cream.

Art, Music & Theatre

Abrakadoodle Art Education

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Montgomery

Classes hosted at your school. Plus, Home School and Studio classes throughout the Fall and Spring. Online registration is open now! We also offer summer camps, parties, glitter tattoos and face painting.

mcornwell@abrakadoodle.com abrakadoodle.com/al-montgomery-register/

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts: Studio Programs

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1 Museum Drive Montgomery, 36117

Drawing and painting for preschoolers, children and adults. Afternoons and on weekends. Call for class, times, and cost information. Scholarships are available. Classes begin in September. Visit our website at www.mmfa.org and click on education tab for more fall classes. Teens, ages 13 and up, are welcome to join! For more information, please contact epalmer@ mmfa.org

(334) 240.4365 bmorrison@mmfa.org mmfa.org

Alabama Shakespeare Festival: Acting Academy

1 Festival Drive Montgomery, 36117

Learn more about the craft of acting at ASF’s Acting Academy. Fall Academy classes are open to new and returning students and will feature different content and material from the fall session.

Please call or check our website for fall class dates and information.

Will Cotter, (334) 271.5324 asf.net

Guitar Center

2572 Eastern Blvd Montgomery, 36117

Guitar Center offers private 1-on-1 music lessons. Learning to play music can be an amazing, lifechanging experience. Our fully-engaging lesson program provides a solid academic foundation and at the same time, encourages students to express themselves through music and helps them discover their inner artist.

(334) 396-6245

Montgomery Music Project

507 Columbus St. Montgomery, 36104

The mission of the Montgomery Music Project (MMP) is to develop young people and bring communities together through music. We do this by delivering affordable, high-quality music instruction to the children of Montgomery and the River Region and by uniting diverse geographic, ethnic, and social-economic communities under the umbrella of the arts. 2022/2023 Montgomery Music Project classes will begin September. Please check our Facebook page/website for updates.

(334) 240.4004 montgomerysymphony.org

Montgomery Symphony Youth Orchestra

507 Columbus Street Montgomery, 36104

Runs concurrent with the school year. Audition date will be in September. Please check our website for updates.

(334) 414.1261 montgomerysymphony.org

Music Education on Wheels

104 Mendel Pkwy. Montgomery, 36117

M.E.O.W. is designed the positive influence of music within the education system. Group and private music lessons designed to make sure each student develops a lifelong relationship with music.

(334) 676.1449 www.meowacademy.com

P’Zazz Art Studio

138 W. Main St. Downtown Prattville, 36066

Fall classes start August 7. Pick a day and time that fit your schedule. Classes meet once a week. $50 for the month. $20 supply fee per semester. This covers supplies for Sept. – Dec. After school and Homeschool classes available.

(334) 354.1975 pzazzart.com

Suncho School of Music

Wetumpka, 36093

Learn to play the music that you love to listen to! We provide excellent private lessons in guitar, piano, singing, drums, and ukulele. We teach kids, teens, and adults ages 5 and up. We also teach beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Our lessons can take place in our Wetumpka home studio for local students, or online for learners outside of the area. We teach technique, music theory, and songs in the student’s favorite musical styles.

(334) 625.0306 sunchomusic.com

Wetumpka Depot Players

300 South Main Street Wetumpka, 36092

Fall Afterschool Sessions and Homeschool sessions available. Please email to be contacted when those programs are finalized.

(334) 868.1440 wetumpkadepot.com

Bowling

BAMA Lanes

3020 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, 36109

Youth leagues on Fridays at 6:30. Ages 3-20. Pre-registration with free bowling.

(334) 272.5423 bamalanes.com

BAMA Lanes in Prattville

1734 East Main Street Prattville, 36066 Youth leagues on Saturdays. Ages 3-20. Registration will begin in August. Youth leagues start in September. Please call for more information. Free bowling with paid membership. Please call for more information.

(334) 358.8600 bamalanesprattville.com

Bowlero

1661 Eastern Blvd. Montgomery, 36117 Youth Leagues will be starting up in the fall. You may come in and sign up anytime.

(334) 819.7171 bowlero.com

Dance, Gymnastics & Cheer

Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 45

1018 Madison Ave. Montgomery, 36104

The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering fall classes in classical ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), pointe, modern, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary and tap. Classes begin Monday, August 14th. Classes will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, home of the Alabama Dance Theatre located at 1018 Madison Avenue.

(334) 241.2590 alabamadancetheatre.com

Alabama River Region Ballet

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7981 Vaughn Road Montgomery, 36116

Registration going on now. Classes begin September 5. Classes offered in all levels of Classical Ballet, Pre-Pointe and Pointe, Creative Movement and Jazz. Audition information for the Alabama River Region Ballet’s Youth Company will be announced on our website.

(334) 356.5460 alabamariverregionballet.com

Dance Generation

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65 Ashburton Drive Montgomery, 36117

Tap, Ballet, Jazz/Hip hop, Lyrical, Baton and Gymnastics. Open House at the Studio: August 10th from 12:00 - 6:00 and August 14 from 3:006:00. Visit our Facebook page or please call 334-395-4300 or 334-283-2201.

(334) 395.4300 dancegenerationstudio.com

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection

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3370 Harrison Rd. Montgomery, 36109

Fall registration will be August 8th. Classes in Ballet, Tap, Tumbling, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, Hip Hop, Baton and Competitive dance. Ages 2 ½ to Adult (beginner and advanced) Please call for class dates and times. Preschool classes also available on site.

(334) 277.1098

United Gym Stars & Cheer, L.L.C.

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6100 Brewbaker Blvd. Montgomery, 36116

Offer Baby gym for ages 1&2, Kinder Gym for girls ages 3-4, Boys’ Preschool for boys ages 3-5, Junior Gym ages 5 & 6 yrs., Boys’ Progressive ages

6 and up, Girls’ Progressive ages 7 and up. Beginning, Intermediate, & Advanced Tumbling. Cheer and Tumble for Girls’ ages 9 and up. Please call for times and prices. Family discounts available. Registration on a monthly basis.

(334) 284.2244 unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Armory Athletics Center

1018 Madison Ave. Montgomery, 36104

Fall classes begin in August. Ongoing registration. Various leveled classes offered in Gymnas-

tics, Tumbling, and Ninja. Ages 3-18, all skill levels. Cheer, Competitive Gymnastics Team, Private lessons, Monthly special events, Parents Night Out and Camps offered. Classes offered are 45-1 hour classes: Various evening class times Monday through Thursday. Please call for rates.

(334) 241.2789 armoryathletics.com

Bama Blaze Elite Cheer

6016 East Shirley Lane Montgomery, 36117 All-star Cheer, Tumbling classes, Try-out prep,

School and all-star choreography. Our coaches have extensive cheer and tumbling experience. From beginners to the experienced, we are the gym for you.

(334) 233-1921

C.J.’s Dance Factory (Prattville Ballet)

145 S. Court St. Prattville, 36067

Registration on Thursdays in Prattville 5:30-7:00. Dicso Fall Open House Party on August 10th from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. Instruction in: Classical Ballet/Pointe, Jazz/Lyrical, Tap, PowerTumble Gymnastics and Preschool Dance. Meet your instructor, tour the facility, watch the Nutcracker with refreshments, purchase dancewear, and pick up your costume! All students will participate in Prattville’s Nutcracker Ballet, as well as many other performances. Ages preschool to professional.

(334) 467.8603 cjsdancefactory.com

Next Dimension Gymnastics

101A Penser Blvd., Millbrook, 36054

Classes offered: Parent/Tot Tumbling (ages 18mths-3), Tumble Tots (ages3-5), Super Hero Gymnastics (ages 3-5 boys), Junior Olympic Gymnastics (ages 5 and up), Cheer/Jump/Tumble (ages 7 and up). Class times vary according to age and level. Registration begins August 1-8 between the hours of 4:30-6:30. Registration will take place at Gym Location 101 A Penser Blvd., Millbrook.

(334) 285.5515 lisasdancedimensions.com

Pike Road Dance Academy

232 West Elizabeth Lane Pike Road, 36013

Offering 9 levels of dance classes ranging from beginner, intermediate to advanced, and competition style (professional) instruction. These classes were developed for beginners all the way to more serious dancers seeking a

Tutu School

2690G Zelda Road Montgomery , 36106

Tutu School is a whimsical storybook ballet school for children 18 months to 8 years old offering classes, parties, and camps. Registration is on going and montly rates are $68. We offer a free trial class before enrolling.

(334) 363.3360 tutuschoolmontgomery.com

Equestrian

Foxwood Farms

Pike Road, 36064

Safe and structured lessons offered from beginning riders to experienced competitors. Lessons are taught on a semester basis. Please visit our website for rates.

(334) 546.7622 foxwoodfarms.biz

MANE (Montgomery Area

Non-traditional Equestrian)

3699 Wallhatchie Road Montgomery, 36064

Applications available online. Successfully teaching independent riding skills to children with cerebral palsy, mental disabilities, autism, hearing impairment and other disabilities. Goals developed individually for clients. We offer camps during the summer and winter months.

(334) 213.0909 maneweb.org

Pinchona Farms

1359 Windham Road Hope Hull, 36043

Riding Lessons by Gina Carver. Gina’s goals are training and teaching the horse to be a safe, respectful, confident and willing partner, instill safe horsemanship practices both on the ground and in the saddle. Gina works to encourage confidence and sound riding skills by encouraging all her students to progress in a safe and effective manner. Respect for both the student and for the horse is always present.

(334) 315.0 925 pinchonafarm.com

Martial Arts

Evolve Dance Company

2072 Fairview Avenue (Pratt’s Mill Shopping Center) Prattville, 36066

We offer a variety of styles of dance for ages 2 and older. Please check our website for fall class dates.

(334) 730.0310 evolvestudioforthearts.com

Lisa’s Dance Dimensions

2981 Main St. Millbrook, 36054

Offer Parent/Tot, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Jazz, Tap, and Gymnastics. Class times vary according to age and level. Registration begins August 1-8 between the hours of 4:30-6:30. Registration will take place at Gym Location 101 A Penser Blvd., Millbrook.

(334) 285.5515 lisasdancedimensions.com

Mann Dance Studio

422 Pratt St. Prattville, 36054

The studio offers and excels in all forms of dance, offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes. Registration going on now and classes start in August . Tap, Lyrical/ Contemporary, Pointe, Ballet, Gymnastics, Hip Hop, Baton and Jazz. Call for class times and dates.

(334) 365.5154 manndancestudio.net

progressive curriculum. Please visit our website for more information.

(334) 782.9200 pikeroaddance.com

Tammy’s Academy of Dance

742 U.S. Hwy 231 Wetumpka, 36092

Registration going on now. Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe and Contemporary and Tumbling. Classes for ages 3 through adult.

(334) 221.2657 tammysacademyofdance.net

The Montgomery Ballet

1044 East Fairview Avenue Montgomery, 36106

The Montgomery Ballet is the producer of Performance on the Green, Ballet and the Beasts and The Nutcracker. Training provided in Classical Ballet for children and adults of all ages (2 1/2 to adult). Classes for different levels, (divided both by age and skill). As the Official School of The Montgomery Ballet Company, we are committed to developing first class ballet artists through quality training by experienced professional dancers in a healthy, nurturing and disciplined atmosphere. Please call for dates. Open enrollment. Classes offered in Classical Ballet, Pointe, Variation, Modern, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop and Contemporary. We also have a Civic Company.

(334) 409.0522 montgomeryballet.org

Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center

3447 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, 36116

Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center offers an affordable family friendly martial arts program with no long-term contracts. Anti-abduction curriculum, Random Acts of Kindness Program, Academic Achievement Program and MORE all taught by nationally certified instructors...check us out!

***Ages 4 & older/Lil’ Dragons (ages 4-5) offered during the school year! With all memberships you receive a free uniform.

(334) 220.5835 trytkdfree.com

Family Karate Center

8159 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, 36117

Montgomery’s Christian Martial Arts. Mon.- Saturday (ages 2 and up): No enrollment fee, no contract. Specialize in ADD, LD, handicapped, mentally challenged, visually impaired, blind, autistic, deaf, overweight children, and children with depression anxiety disorder. Founders of the “Stranger Danger Child Abduction Prevention Program, ASK MOM FIRST Child Molestation Prevention, and the How to Handle Bullies and Aggressive People Program. Family Karate Center now also offers Japanese Martial Arts Training and Weaponry.

(334) 277.4911 montgomeryfamilykarate.com

Fleming’s Martial Arts

5521 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, 36117

Classes for children and adults. A structured, systematic curriculum is offered in a focused and safe training environment.

(334) 277.5425 flemingsmartialarts.net

Johnson Karate and Fitness Center

2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Montgomery, 36116

Classes for ages 3 to Adults. At Johnson’s Karate & Fitness Academy we teach Tae Kwon Do, SelfDefense, Private Lessons, Fitness Kickboxing, Pilates, and Sport Karate. We are now offering early morning Kick Boxing classes. We offer free trial lessons. Phil. 4:13.

(334) 284.2344 johnsonsmartialartsacademy.com

Martial Arts Center

2055 Harmon Street Montgomery, 36107

Martial Arts combined with discipline and etiquette. Martial Arts is good, clean fun for kids and a great way to give them a head start in life. Our primary focus is to teach children life skills. Because a structure of respect, courtesy and honesty is built into KUK SOOL, children develop the ability to learn, listen and achieve within a highly regulated environment. Ages 6 yrs.-8 yrs. and 9 yrs. – 15 yrs. Call for times and prices.

(334) 318.1892

Montgomery Judo Academy

1555 Eastern Blvd Montgomery, 36116

Your child will reach new heights when they learn judo the gentle way! Gain confidence, build character, and learn respect. Teaching kids, teens and adults. Louis A. Balestrieri, Coach/Sensei

(631) 767.8052

NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville

698 Old Farm Lane N Prattville, 36066

Tang Soo Do, Li’l Dragons (4-6 years) and XMA (Xtreme Martial Arts) offered.

(334) 590.3759 nextgenmartialarts.com

Tiger Park Taekwondo & Chung’s Taekwondo

3125 Bell Road Montgomery, 36116

Classes for everyone Ages 3 to adult. We now offer an After-school Program. We provide free transportation from your child’s school to our facility. Our program is designed to help your child be the best they can be, develop great self confidence, strengthen mental and physical discipline and create an interactive and educational environment.

(334) 277.2627 tigerparktkd.com

Tiger Rock Martial Arts

2750 Bell Rd. Montgomery, 36117

Classes offered for children ages 4-5 (Tiger Cubs), ages 6-11 (Junior Program) and 12-15 (Youth Class) and Adults 16 +.

(334) 244.1465 tigerrockmontgomery.com

US Yoshukai Karate

290 N. Burbank Dr. Montgomery, 36117

Visit us on Facebook under US Yoshukai Karate for more details and classes offered. Ages 5 and up. (334) 657.2032 usyka.com

Miscellaneous

Caesar Chess

Teaching kids to play chess in metro Montgomery. ** Public ** Private ** Homeschooled ** Caesar Lawrence – Director & Chess Coach 334-868-0271 CaesarChess@gmail.com

JoAnn’s Fabric & Craft Stores

7951 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, 36117

We offer a variety of classes in Cake Decorating, Crocheting, Food & Cooking, Knitting, Quilting and Sewing. Please visit your local JoAnn’s for description of classes offered at this time and pricing. (334) 409.2640 joann.com

Michaels

7991 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, 36117

Learn crafting skills when and where you want with online classes from Creativebug, or sign up for in store classes in jewelry making, art painting, paper crafting, mixed media, floral design, cake decorating or knitting and crocheting. Please visit your local Michaels’ for class descriptions, times and fees.

(334) 260.2846 michaels.com

Snapology

Ages 6-14. 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. Please call or visit our website or on Facebook under Snapology of the River Region. (334) 318.2824 snapology.com

Recreational & Sports

Girl Scouts

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2501 Bell Road Montgomery, 36117

Daisies, Brownies and Girl Scouts. Girls discover who they are, where their talents lie, and what they care the most about. And they take action

to change the world. Through our program, the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, girls develop a strong sense of self, display positive values, and seek challenges.

(800) 239.6636 girlscoutssa.org

Prattville YMCA

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972 McQueen Smith Rd. S, 600 E. Main Street 348 Hwy 82 West Prattville, 36066, 36067

Registration going on now. Main After School Program, Kindergarten After School, Primary After School, Pine Level, and Daniel Pratt. Prepay first week at registration. Vans will pick up kids at public school and take them to the Main Site Program. Main Site cost is $65 for first child for members and $80 for non-members per week. Discounts for second and third children. Family discounts available. Fall sports are as follows: Football, Cheerleading, Baseball, Basketball, Taekwondo, Volleyball, Cheer, tumble, gymnastics and swim lessons available. Please call for fall sports registration dates. (334) 365.8852 or for the Prattville Bradford Branch call (334) 358.1446. prattvilleymca.org

Boy Scouts

3067 Carter Hill Rd. Montgomery, 36111

About 100 Cub Scout packs located in various private and public schools, churches, etc. August/ September, city wide Fall Recruitment night for Scouts, parents can enroll their child in a pack that night. Someone will be handing out brochures at all schools in August/September. Homeschoolers are welcome.

(334) 262.2697 tukabatcheebsa.org

Boys & Girls Clubs of the River Region

412 North Hull Street Montgomery, 36104 Chisholm, (334) 265.2469, 2612 Lower Wetumpka

West End, (334) 263.3371, 220 Crenshaw Street Wetumpka, (334) 478.4904, 499 Alabama Street

Provides programs and opportunities, which encourage young people, particularly the disadvantaged, to maximize their potential and become caring productive citizens of our community. Activities include character and leadership development, health and life skills, education and career development, sports, fitness and recreation, and the arts. Clubs are open Mon-Fri from 3-9 p.m. during the school year and 9-5 on school holidays and in the summer. All locations serve children ages 6-18. $5.00 a year per child.

Administrative Office, (334) 832.4288 bgcmala.org

Doster Center, Prattville

101 West Main Street Prattville, 36066

Various after school activities include Afterschool Recreation Club for grades K-6th. Monday –Friday, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. (After school transportation provided.), Vacation Club Day (for school holidays when children are out of school but parents are still working) Grades K-6, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (334) 361.3640

Frazer Upward Basketball

Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, 36117

Program available for girls 5 years through 8th grade and boys 5 years through 8th grade. Registration only during the month of October. Practice begins in December. Games begin in January. (334) 495.6459 frazer.church

Frazer Upward Football & Cheerleading

Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, 36117

Registration begins July 1 and runs through August 14. Program offered Aug.-Oct. for rising 1st- 6th grade. Spiritual development through devotionals, coaching and athletic skills. Registration is open now. Please visit us at www.frazer.

church under the family and sports & fitness tabs for registration link.

(334) 495.6459 frazer.church

Montgomery YMCA

Offering over 100 different programs for all ages. Including inside and outside youth and adult soccer, football (grades 1-6), basketball (year-round & all ages), track, soccer (ages 6 & up), mini-soccer (ages 4 & 5), aquatic program, cheerleading (grades 1-6), Leaders Club & Tri-Hi-Y (grades 7-12), and much more. Fees vary by activity and membership. Boys and girls can enjoy teamwork, sportsmanship and healthy competition. Contact your local YMCA branch.

Cheerleading: Cheerleading will build confidence and self esteem while developing social skills and healthy relationships with others. Ages 5-12 (no 7th graders allowed) Season: September-November. Games on Saturdays. Registration going on now until August 4th.

Basketball for ages 4-15: Registration begins in September.

Youth Tackle Football: Season: September-November. Ages 6-12 (No 7th grade players will be allowed.) Games will be on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Registration will be going on until Aug 4th. Late Registration from August 5th-13th.

Mini Flag Football: Ages: 4-7. Provide players the opportunity to learn the basics of football in a developmental environment. Registration will be going on until Aug 4th. Late Registration from August 5th-13th.

Ice Hockey: Ages 4-11. Children will learn the fundamentals of ice skating and begin to practice the skills needed to play ice hockey. This program will begin as an instructional program and evolve into a developmental league program. Please call for more information.

Fall Outdoor Mini-Soccer for ages 3 & 6: Registra-

tion June 14 through August 12. Season begins in August and will end in October.

Southeast Y, Carter Hill Road (334) 262.6411 Camp Chandler, Lake Jordan (334) 269.4362

Skating

Book your birthday parties and Inflatables. Laser Tag: Your kids will love the thrill of taking on

FC Montgomery Futsal Soccer

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Boulevard (indoor/air conditioned)

Montgomery, 36117

Outdoor Travel Soccer and Indoor Local Futsal club. A variety of programs offered, including; Soccer Camps, 3v3 Tourneys, Lessons, Soccer Parties, Soccer Tours and Homeschool. Registration is on going. Please check our website for our training and games schedule and team evaluation dates. Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach – Masters Phy. Ed. (334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery. com

fcmontgomery.com

Frazer Sonshine Soccer

Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, 36117

Held at Frazer Soccer Fields will be held in the Spring. Ages 5-12. (334) 495.6458 frazer.church

St. James Upward Soccer

9045 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, 36117

Registration available online. K4 through 4 grade (boys and girls welcome)

Registration is going on now. (334) 277.3037 sjlife.com

YMCA Capital City Streaks

300 Brown Springs Road Montgomery, 36117

Participants can sign up at any local YMCA. Season- September-November and April-May.

Ages 6-18. Games: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Registration is open now. Practice begins in August and games begin in September.

(334) 218.3750 capitalcitystreaks.org

Swim Prep

Prattville & Montgomery

Private One-on-one swim lessons starting at 6 months. Maintenance and group classes offered after student has graduated our program. Please visit our website for information and to register.

(334) 375.2023 swimprepllc.com

YMCA Barracuda’s Competitive Swim Team

3407 Pelzer Avenue Montgomery, 36109

The YMCA has a year-round competitive swim program based at the East YMCA. Tryouts will be held in August.

(334) 272.3390 ymcamontgomery.org

Tennis

O’Connor Tennis Center

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500 Anderson Street Montgomery, 36107

After-school Tennis Clinics offered during the school year for all ages. We follow the MPS school

(334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com oconnortenniscenter.com

Hampstead Tennis

Hampstead Montgomery, 36116

Tennis lessons open to both residents and visitors interested in enjoying the fun of tennis. Players welcomed from beginner to advanced level play of ages, and offer weekly organized private lessons (334) 207.9821, Jan Gelabert

Wynlakes Tennis

7900 Wynlakes Blvd. Montgomery, 36117

The Wynlakes Junior Tennis Program offers classes for students 4 years and older. Beginning

with “Pee Wee Tennis” the players graduate to “Rising Stars” and move to “Excellence” and finally to the “Wynlakes Junior Tour” where players receive state ranking. Tennis at Wynlakes is a sport for everyone and is the sport of a lifetime.

(334) 273.8425 wynlakes.com

Tutoring

Better Than Average

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2820 Fairlane Dr., Suite A3 Montgomery , 36116 Building Confidence. Creating individuals who love learning. Our peer tutors aim to build relationships with our students to make learning more engaging and relatable. We strive to show our students their potential and to strengthen confidence in their capabilities by celebrating their acheivements. In-person and virutal.

(334) 802.1315 betterthanaverage.online

Mathnasium

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3453 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, 36116

We specialize in teaching kids math the way that makes sense to them. We provide: Expert tutors, Custom learning plans and personalized instruction, and Homework help.

(334) 521.8327 eastmontgomery@mathnasium.com mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery

Sylvan Learning Center

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4240 Lomac St. Montgomery, 36106 Sylvan Learning Center offers: Reading and Math Individualized tutoring with a diagnostic evaluation. ACT/SAT Test Prep; Home-

work Support; Study Skills; Credit Recovery. The River Region Academy is an AdvancEd/ SACS Accredited School for grades K-12 with a low student teacher ratio and individualized instruction.

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

“Bee” Smart Tutorial & Childcare Development Center

1738 West 3rd Street Montgomery, 36106

Get a Head Start on Good Grades! Does your child have low grades, need to get ahead in school, need after school care or need to get ready for Kindergarten? “Bee”Smart offers tutoring in Reading and Math, a wonderful Pre-K program as well as Homework Assistance, Computer Skills and Life Skills. Family Guidance Accepted. Ask us about our excellent Summer Enrichment Program.

(334) 303-2627 beesmarttutorialservice.webs.com

Ed Tech Academy

2101 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery, 36116

Do you want to see an improvement in your child’s academics? Offering STEM and technology daytime and afternoon programs. Tutoring, adult classes, parent’s night out, Saturday workshops and more. Homeschoolers welcome. Discounts for multiple children, military and state employees. (334) 296.2393 edtechacademy.org

Enjoy Learning Center

2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd., Montgomery, 36116 One-on-one tutoring for ages 4 to adult. Math, science, chemistry, reading, comprehension, phonics, spelling, writing, graduation exit exam, ACT and SAT. Certified, skilled teachers. Credit/ debit cards accepted.

(334) 270.0234 enjoylearningcenter.com

Huntington Learning Center

3251 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, 36116

One on one instruction in a specific course. Tutoring for K-12 in reading, all levels of math, study skills, writing, phonics, vocabulary and more. SAT, ACT PSAT, Advanced Placement test prep. (334) 277.9200 huntingtonhelps.com

Kumon of Montgomery-Central

1655 Perry Hill Rd Montgomery, 36106

After school learning program for long term solution. We prepare your child to be a more independent learner in Reading and Math and developing their learning attitude. Kumon is one of the world’s largest afterschool programs. (334) 279.1400 kumon.com/montgomery-central

Kumon Reading & Math Center

8115 Vaughn Rd Montgomery, 36116

After-school academic enrichment program that helps children achieve success. The Kumon Math program develops necessary skills to help children progress from counting through calculus. The Kumon Reading program begins with basic phonics and progresses all the way through advanced reading comprehension.

(334) 649.1178 kumon.com

MasterRead

2815-C Zelda Rd., Montgomery, 36106 Grades K-12 individual tutoring. Sessions for reading, comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, math, composition, spelling, study skills and ACT/SAT preparation and Exit Exam preparation. (334) 271.6295

Read Write Learning Center

6752 Taylor Circle Montgomery, 36116

Give your student the extra boost they need this year with Read Write! Read Write offers dyslexia testing and one-on-one therapy for students with language based learning dis -

abilities. Our services include multisensory instruction in reading, math, grammar, writing and comprehension. We also offer early intervention for 4 and 5 year olds, which promotes a strong foundation for early literacy.

(334) 328.2134

readwritelearningcenter.com

Success Unlimited

2328 Fairlane Drive

Montgomery, 36106

Tutoring available for any subject. Tutoring provided by Christian certified teachers. Please call for rates.

(334) 213.0803 suacademy.com

Sylvan Learning of Prattville

2046 Farivew Ave. Prattville, 36066

Sylvan offers tutoring and individualized test prep for all math, reading, writing and more. We offer ACT/SAT Test prep. Monthly packages are available for Academic Coaching. Call or come by today for more information.

(334) 380.4144 sylvanlearning.com/Prattville

Tutoring by Audrey

ArtWorks Interactive Gallery

ArtWorks is an engaging space where visitors can connect with art through interactive elements that explore art’s materials, ideas, and techniques or enjoy the areas set aside for quiet reading and imaginative play.

Mann Dance Studio Celebrates Dancers’ Accomplishments

Ella Kate Churchwell and Hannah Roberts are two young ladies that are very well known in the dance industry, their communities and churches, and the state’s Distinguished Young Woman program. Both girls have been students at Mann Dance Studio. Ella Kate has been a student since preschool through her high school graduation; Hannah has been a student with Mann Dance for the entirety of her family’s time living in Prattville.

Individually, these young women have accomplished many impressive accolades, from academia to their communities to their dance careers, just to name a few. Ella Kate was the winning participant in the 2023 Distinguished Young Woman competition in Elmore County. She won First Overall Senior Super Soloist (Encore DCS), Second Overall Pre- Pro Soloist (Platinum NDC), Standout Performer Award (VIP NDC), Second Overall Senior Soloist (KAR), among many other accomplishments. She was also an AP scholar for Government and Computer Science, as well as over $60,000 in scholarships to the University of South Alabama and Auburn University.

Hannah was the winning participant in the 2023 Distinguished Young Woman competition in Autauga County, winning scholar-

Head; SGA Social Media Chair; Prattville High School Ambassador; National Honor Society; Youth Leadership Autauga County; Mann Dance Company Dancer, placing at five competitions this season with her solo, placed at six competitions in duet, and won Photogenic awards at three competitions. Hannah was awarded over $88,000 in scholarships to Auburn University and Mississippi State University; she has accepted admission to Auburn, where she will be majoring in architecture, as well as participating in their Honors College. She graduated from Prattville High School with an Honors diploma and a 4.3 GPA. Ella Kate will also be attending Auburn University in the Fall. She and Hannah will be roommates, continuing their friendship in the coming years.

Hannah and Ella Kate have been superior role models for all of the younger dancers at Mann Dance Studio. They are always willing to help and provide inspiration to the younger girls. As they head off to Auburn, we will miss them terribly but are so proud of all they have accomplished individually and together, as friends and dancers. We are excited to see what they accomplish next, as this is only the beginning of their amazing stories. Your Mann Dance Studio loves you each so much! It has been an honor to watch you grow!

Role model. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), traffic accidents remain the leading cause of injury and death among teens, but setting a positive example can help nurture an aware, focused driver.

“We as parents have a great deal of influence in how our children are going to drive by how they see us driving,” says pediatric safety specialist Brad Winfrey, BSN, RN, CPEN, CPST. “That’s why it’s so important that parents role model driving at safe speeds, wearing seatbelts and not driving distracted.”

Teach the MVPs of driving. After working “in the emergency department (at a children’s hospital) for 30 years, I certainly saw the impact of what teen driving, lack of experience and distraction can do to the driver and the passengers,” Winfrey says.

Winfrey teaches young drivers the acronym “MVP”:

Mind - Keep your mind on driving and stay aware of what is happening around you. Pay attention to road signs, traffic lights and construction zones.

Vision - Your eyes should be on the road ahead of you and not elsewhere in the vehicle, like texting on the phone, posting to social media or fiddling with the radio.

Practice - Practice in a variety of weather conditions, roadways, construction areas and especially at night, when visibility is limited and oncoming headlights can be blinding. With evening school activities and part-time jobs, teens frequently drive at night.

From the time they are infants, we take the necessary precautions to protect our kids, but how can we keep them safe once they start driving?

Limit passengers. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that a 16 or 17-year-old’s risk of death per mile rises 44 percent when carrying one passenger younger than 21 and quadruples when transporting three or more passengers under the age of 21. The potential for risk-taking behavior also increases, including not wearing seatbelts, speeding and drinking alcohol.

Many graduated driver’s licensing (GDL) programs, which have been enacted to some degree in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, restrict the number of passengers. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the GDL program has reduced teen crashes by 20 to 40 percent.

Download Life 360. John Lacy, a police officer, recommends the Life 360 app to help you keep track of your teen’s whereabouts. The app also provides crash detection and emergency response and weekly driver reports, highlighting phone usage, acceleration, braking and top speeds.

“Don’t tell your children that they’re being added to Life 360. Just do it,” Lacy says. “Kids are very crafty. If they know that something like that is on their phone, they’ll disable it. Remember, it’s your phone, not your kid’s cell phone.”

If you prefer to be open with your teen about the app, tell them that as a minor on the road, it provides a non-negotiable, additional layer of safety and security.

Educate them about the vehicle. Acquaint your teen with the car’s features like how to turn on the headlights, where the defrost is located, how to turn on windshield wipers, how to open the gas tank and how to fill it. Also, teach them how to change a tire.

(Check the spare tire every three months to ensure it is aired up.)

Under the hood, point out the battery and how to check the oil. Store a roadside emergency kit in the trunk with plastic flare reflectors (available at auto shops and online).

Know the dos and don’ts of roadside assistance. Your teen should contact you and/or the police if they are in a car accident, become stranded or get lost. If they get lost, which isn’t uncommon for new drivers, tell them to call you first.

“It’s okay to call the police if they’re lost, too,” Lacy says.

If your teen gets a flat tire, instruct them to call the police first and then you.

“The reason I like an officer there is because the lights provide protection especially at night, and reminds people to slow down,” Lacy says.

Unfortunately, we don’t always know if a stranger offering help is acting as a good samaritan or has more nefarious intentions. If your teen is stranded, they should wave on those offering help and tell them that the police will arrive shortly.

Manage a traffic stop. Explain to your teen that if they get stopped by the police, they should pull over to the righthand side of the road, into a well-lit parking lot or onto private property to keep them and the officer safe from oncoming traffic.

Traffic stops can be stressful even for adults. Encourage your teen to calmly follow the officer’s instructions. Remind them to keep their hands in plain sight on the steering wheel. Your teen should know where their driver’s license, registration and current

insurance card is located inside the vehicle. But, they shouldn’t reach for anything in the car until instructed by the officer.

“The officer will tell you the reason why he stopped you, what he’s looking for, and what he wants,” Lacy says.

After that, the officer will return to his vehicle. “Don’t get out of your vehicle!” Lacy says. “That is the last thing we want you to do. Stay inside the vehicle the entire time and let the officer contact you.”

If your teen suspects that the person pulling them over isn’t a bonafide police officer, they can call 9-1-1 with their location and confirm the traffic stop.

Many police departments record traffic stops. “Kids have a right to record the conversation too,” Lacy says.

If an officer is rude or unprofessional, parents can file a complaint with the department.

Remain patient. Your involvement and patient guidance will help your teen become a safe driver.

“A lot of people immediately want to jump on the bandwagon and say that teens are bad drivers. It’s not necessarily true,” Winfrey says. “They just don’t have experience. With experience, comes better driving skills and better driving habits.”

Sources: Ofc. John Lacy; Brad Winfrey, BSN, RN, CPEN, CPST

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, is the mom of two sons. She and her husband are on the first leg of the teen driver journey with their eldest and wish all fellow parent passengers and their driving teens happy and safe travels!

rrp

FamilyCalendar

Thursday, August 3

Right Bite: Setting the Table for Healthy Eating

10:30AM - 12PM, Autauga Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St Prattville , AL, 36067 Join us for this fun and informative series of programs led by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System to learn how to make healthy and nutritious choices and decisions on your plate. appl.info (334) 365-3396

Summer Nights “End of Summer Bash”

7PM - 9PM Near Sephora, The Shoppes at Eastchase Montgomery Holler if you’re ready for some Summer Nights! Let’s end summer with a BANG! theshoppesateastchase.com (334) 279-6046

5th Annual Crystal Johnson School

Supply Giveaway

11AM - 1:30PM, Eastdale Mall, 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL, 36117 The 5th Annual Crystal Johnson FREE School Supply Giveaway, BlueHeart Foundation shopeastdale.com (334) 277-7380

Community Market 2023 (FREE)

4PM - 7PM, Main Street, 231 Hill St Wetumpka, AL, 36092 The Community Market showcases a variety of handmade, homemade, and homegrown products created by local artisans, and farmers. It features over 30 unique booths with vendors and one-of-a-kind items each month. mainstreetwetumpka.org (334) 478-3926

Art talk

6PM - 8PM, NewSouth Books, 105 South Court Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 Get to know the River Region art scene with this critique group, where artists gather each month to enjoy camaraderie with peers while critiquing and learning about art around the area. Participants can bring one work of art for feedback or just join the conversation for creative inspiration! mmfa.org (334) 625-4333

Teal Town

6:30PM - 9PM, Eclectic Warehouse, 45 Main St Eclectic, AL, 36024 At EXIT Realty Hometown, we have had the honor of serving Elmore county for the past year. This fall, we are aiming to raise $10,000 for the Butterfly Bridge. On August 3rd we are planning to host a networking fundraising event, Teal Town, at the Eclectic Warehouse. At this event we plan to raise money by having live and silent auctions, a wine pull and raffles.

exitrealtyhometown.com (303) 944-0700

Joe Sewell Memorial Award and Scholarship presents Tim Tebow ($35-$150)

7:30PM - 10PM, Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 Join us as Tim Tebow shares firsthand lessons of leadership, sacrifice, perseverance, and service to others mpaconline.org (334) 481-5800

Friday, August 4

Art Stroll 2023 (Free) 4PM - 8PM, Both Sides of N Hull Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 We invite you to participate in this familyfriendly market event that promotes hand-made art by local artists in the river region. The Art Stroll is a way to promote local artists, and to encourage community engagement with the arts. The Art Stroll is an

effort of the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery to revitalize our Downtown historical neighborhood, to showcase Central Alabama talents and many different art disciplines in the surrounding of Historic Old Alabama Town. montgomeryartcenter.com

Strange, Odd, and Whimsical Mergers

Art Exhibit with Georgia Banks-Martin

4PM - 6PM, Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue Montgomery, AL, 36104 Strange, Odd, and Whimsical Mergers, an exhibit by artist Georgia Banks-Martin, opens Aug. 4 at The Folmar Gallery. funinmontgomery.com (334) 625-2581

Pike Road Summer Stampede ($10-$20)

5:30PM - 9PM, 6281 Trotman Road Montgomery, AL, 36116 Support Pike Road FFA by attending the Pike Road Summer Stampede. A fun family event including live music, food, and a full rodeo. (205) 372-3182

Friday on the Green – The Murray Brown Band (FREE) 6:30PM - 8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 Richard Murray and Rusty Brown are on the Green Stage this Friday night! From the Lake Martin area, they put their spin on the covers that they sing and make them fun! russelllands.com (256) 397.1019

Saturday, August 5

Eastchase Farmer’s Market

7AM - 12PM, Shoppes at Eastchase, located near Sephora and H&M, 7274 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery, AL, 36117 Shop 20+ Certified local vendors! The market has everything from produce and homemade jellies and jams to locally grown honey and the best boiled peanuts around! theshoppesateastchase.com (334) 279-6046

San Tuck Flea Market

6AM - 2PM, San Tuck, 7300 Central Plank Road Wetumpka , AL We are open from 6 am until 2pm (rain or shine) on the 1st Saturday of each month, except we are closed January and February. We have an average of 500 vendors each month that sell a wide variety of foods, merchandise, and crafts. (334) 567-7400

20th Annual Youth Fishing Rodeo

7AM - 11AM, Lanark in Millbrook, 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL, 36054 The AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo program is designed to provide Alabama’s youth a chance to experience the outdoors and learn about fishing. alabamawildlife.org (334) 285-4550

Farmers Market

7AM - 12PM, On the Grove, Doster Road Prattville, AL, 36067 Join the City of Prattville for the Prattville Farmers Market every Saturday through August 26. The market will feature fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, along with local honey, homemade baked goods, jams, jellies, eggs, handmade bath and body products, plants and more! prattvilleal.gov (334) 595.0850

Bored Teachers ($33-$52+)

7PM - 10PM, Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 The biggest entertainment platform for teachers in the

world, Bored Teachers, presents the funniest teachercomedians in the world all on one stage. mpaconline.org (334) 481-5800

WILDLIFE PRESENTATION (FREE)

9AM - 2PM, Naturalist Cabin, Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 Join the Russell Lands Naturalist at Russell Crossroads for an informative exhibit featuring wet wildlife! russellcrossroads.com/events.html (256) 496.2710

Pike Road Summer Stampede ($10-$20)

5:30PM - 9PM, 6281 Trotman Road Montgomery, AL, 36116 Support Pike Road FFA by attending the Pike Road Summer Stampede. A fun family event including live music, food, and a full rodeo. (205) 372-3182

Monday, August 7

Family Movie Night: Finding Nemo

7:30PM - 9:30PM, Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce Street, Montgomery The City of Montgomery Department of Cultural Affairs and Guardian Credit Union invite you to Family Movie Night at Riverfront Park. Admission is free! Remember to bring your blankets and chairs!

Tuesday, August 8

Crochet Circle of Friends

6PM - 7PM, Autauga Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St Prattville , AL, 36067 Pick up some crochet tips and tricks from experienced crocheters, or share your own with novices while enjoying a relaxing communal setting and refreshments! Please BYO materials; some experience is recommended. appl.info (334) 365-3396

Thursday, August 10

Summer Edit at Eastchase

6 PM – 7:30 PM, Near South Boutique, Shoppes at EastChase, Montgomery Enjoy live music, pop-up vendors and giveaways. Vendors include: Aqualime Skincare, Bloom Cart, Bone and Arrow Jewelry, Bonefish Grill, Flare Candles, Nothing Bundt Cakes, South Boutique, Studio Panache Photo Booth, Unbroken Permanent Jewelry and more. The first 100 attendees will get complimentary EastChase swag! Everyone can enter to win a HUGE giveaway {details coming soon} and shop exclusive deals from participating retailers.

www.theshoppesateastchase.com

Community Market 2023 (FREE)

4PM - 7PM, Main Street, 231 Hill St Wetumpka, AL, 36092 The Community Market showcases a variety of handmade, homemade, and homegrown products created by local artisans, and farmers. It features over 30 unique booths with vendors and one-of-akind items each month.

mainstreetwetumpka.org

(334) 478-3926

Friday, August 11

WILDLIFE PRESENTATION (FREE)

6AM - 8PM, Naturalist Cabin, Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 Join the Russell Lands Naturalist at Russell Crossroads for an informative exhibit featuring wet wildlife! russellcrossroads.com/events.html

naturallist@russelllands.com

(256) 496.2710

FamilyCalendar

BINGO NIGHT

6PM - 9PM, Eclectic Warehouse, 45 Main St Eclectic, AL, 36024 Eclectic the Beautiful is so very excited for our first annual Bingo Night fundraiser! Located inside The Warehouse in Eclectic- doors will open at 6pm. We are thrilled to announce that The Wharf Food-truck and Pops BBQ Food-truck will be set up for dinner! First round of Bingo will begin at 6:30, second round to begin at 8:00. Each Bingo card is $5.00 and we will play as many times as we can within each session. So many wonderful gifts/prizes will be given during each session! Plan to join us for a great night of food and Bingo!

(303) 944-0700

Friday on the Green – DANIEL & MCDANIEL

(FREE) 6:30PM - 8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 Daniel & McDaniel are coming back to Russell Crossroads and will be on the Green Stage for our weekly Friday On The Green. They have been playing together for a minute and have a super cool country vibe. russelllands.com (256) 397.1019

Through August 12

Four Weddings and an Elvis ($15) Wetumpka Depot, 300 S Main St. Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Sandy has seen her share of Bright Light City weddings and in this hilarious comedy we get to witness four of the most hilarious! wetumpkadepot.com (334) 318.2538

Saturday, August 12

Annual Fundsraing Fishing Tournament

5AM - 8PM, Pike Road, AL More information to come!!! Hosted by Sweetie B’s Arm Foundation sweetiebsarmsfoundation.com (334) 392-7363

BBQ Ribs Masterclass

10 AM, 11775 Troy Highway, Pike Road, AL 36064 This hands-on event is perfect for all BBQ enthusiasts looking to up their grilling game. Our expert pitmaster John Lindsey will guide you through the art of creating mouthwatering ribs that will have your friends and family begging for more. During this in-person event, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, share tips, and mingle with fellow BBQ enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grill master, this masterclass is designed to enhance your BBQ skills and take your ribs to the next level. Reserve your spot today!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bbq-ribs-masterclassat-bbq-hill-tickets-675525213097

Kicks Fest 2023

12PM - 7PM, Multiplex at Cramton Bowl, 1037 Pelham Street, Montgomery Kicks Fest is an annual Sneaker/ Vintage/ Streetwear apparel event where people can buy/sell/trade. facebook.com/kicksfest

Eastchase Farmer’s Market

7AM - 12PM, Shoppes at Eastchase, located near Sephora and H&M, 7274 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery, AL, 36117 Shop 20+ Certified local vendors! The market has everything from produce and homemade jellies and jams to locally grown honey and the best boiled peanuts around!

theshoppesateastchase.com (334) 279-6046

Farmers Market

7AM - 12PM, On the Grove, Doster Road Prattville, AL, 36067 Join the City of Prattville for the Prattville Farmers Market every Saturday through August 26. The market will feature fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, along with local honey, homemade baked goods, jams, jellies, eggs, handmade bath and body products, plants and more! prattvilleal.gov (334) 595.0850

WILDLIFE PRESENTATION (FREE)

9AM - 2PM, Naturalist Cabin, Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 Join the Russell Lands Naturalist at Russell Crossroads for an informative exhibit featuring wet wildlife! russellcrossroads.com/events.html naturallist@russelllands.com (256) 496.2710

Magical Creatures

Education Event

10AM - 12PM, Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, 2301 Coliseum

Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36110 Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in the movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. Advanced reservations required. NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR ON THE DAY OF THE EVENT! montgomeryzoo.com (334) 625-4900

Out of this World Back to School Bash

1PM - 3PM, Autauga Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St Prattville , AL, 36067 Celebrate the going back to school season with the Mandalorian! Complete a bounty hunt for a prize and meet the Mandalorian. appl.info (334) 365-3396

Sunday, August 13

Kat Timpf Live - You Can’t Joke About That

($39-$65) 7PM - 9PM, The Montgomery Performing Arts Centre at Renaissance Montgomery, 201 Tallapoosa St Montgomery, AL, 36104 Hilarious 90-minute show that takes a deep dive into every aspect of her best-selling book. mpaconline.org (334) 481-5100

Second Sundays

2PM - 4 PM, 1 Court Square, Montgomery We will have artists, local makers, creators, and junior entrepreneurs on hand to support. Plus food vendors and live music. Bring chalk and make sidewalk art. Don’t miss this! Sponsored by BeYoutiful Boutiques. www.beyoutifulonwheels.com

Thursday, August 17

Right Bite: Setting the Table for Healthy Eating

10:30AM - 12PM, Autauga Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St Prattville , AL, 36067 Join us for this fun and informative series of programs led by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System to learn how to make healthy and nutritious choices and decisions on your plate. appl.info (334) 365-3396

Community Market 2023 (FREE)

4PM - 7PM, Main Street, 231 Hill St Wetumpka, AL, 36092 The Community Market showcases a variety of handmade, homemade, and homegrown products created by local artisans, and farmers. It features over 30 unique booths with vendors and one-of-akind items each month.

mainstreetwetumpka.org (334) 478-3926

Friday, August 18

River Region LOBSTER FEST 2023

5PM, Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Avenue Montgomery We are flying in fresh lobsters from Maine! Proceeds benefit Ascension Day School and FUMC Respite Ministry. Back again this year, we are having dine-in meals together! But we still have Lobsters To Go if you prefer to pick it up live or cooked! Along with your lobster, you will get sides, dessert, bread, butter and lemons. Dine-in also includes a 30-minute reception before the dinner. Eating instructions will be on hand. Please also consider making a donation (also available under ticket options) to provide a meal to Memory Care. Donate a full meal for $50 or give as much as you are able towards one. riverregionlobsterfest.org (334) 263-5529

LifeSouth Blood Drive w/ Omega

10AM - 3PM, Eastdale Mall, 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL, 36117 Near Skating Rink shopeastdale.com (334) 277-7380

Buckmaster Expo 2023

Also August 19 and 20, Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery $1 DONATION or 1 can food per person per day. Shop more than 300 vendor booths

Bulls & Buckmasters - Professional Bull Riding event Friday and Saturday nights – (located directly in front of the Renaissance). See the high-flying Action Dock Dogs Free Riverboat rides Watch the 4-H & Collegiate Top Bow Archery Competition And see the archery record book Buck. Bring your deer racks to be scored FREE all weekend. And many special guest appearances over the weekend! buckmasters.com/resources/expo

WILDLIFE PRESENTATION (FREE)

6PM - 8PM, Naturalist Cabin, Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 Join the Russell Lands Naturalist at Russell Crossroads for an informative exhibit featuring wet wildlife! russellcrossroads.com/events.html naturallist@russelllands.com (256) 496.2710

Friday on the Green – Work Around (FREE)

6:30PM - 8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 We are excited to bring The Workaround to the Green Stage for the first time ever!! For those of you who don’t know, The Workaround is a local band that simply enjoys playing music. russelllands.com (256) 397.1019

Saturday, August 19

FGC’s Heart & Sole “Sneaker” Gala

6PM, Alley Station, Commerce Street, Montgomery This exciting event to benefit the Family Guidance Center of Alabama will include dinner, cash bar, music, silent auction and 3 cash drawings. Grand prize: $5000; 2nd prize: $3000; 3rd prize: $2000. Tickets: $125 for two people.

www.familyguidancecenter.org

4th Annual Midtown YMCA Tailgate

BBQ Cook Off

11AM - 1:30PM, Midtown YMCA, 3455 Carter Hill Road Montgomery Food, family, music, and games! Better yet, bring your own grill and register to enter! Plus, Cornhole Competition, Kids Play Zone, Football Toss. Cost: $10 per person; $5 for ages 10 & under Members AND non-members welcome!

ldemoss@ymcamontgomery.org (334) 269-4362

FamilyCalendar

Eastchase Farmer’s Market

7AM - 12PM, Shoppes at Eastchase, located near Sephora and H&M, 7274 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery, AL, 36117 Shop 20+ Certified local vendors! The market has everything from produce and homemade jellies and jams to locally grown honey and the best boiled peanuts around! theshoppesateastchase.com (334) 279-6046

Prattville Farmers Market

7AM - 12PM, On the Grove, Doster Road Prattville, AL, 36067 Join the City of Prattville for the Prattville Farmers Market every Saturday through August 26. The market will feature fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, along with local honey, homemade baked goods, jams, jellies, eggs, handmade bath and body products, plants and more! prattvilleal.gov (334) 595.0850

Community Service Day - Claudette Colving

Legacy Garden

8AM - 12PM, 2011 Upper Wetumpka Road Montgomery, AL, 36107 We will lay out mulch, build and paint raised beds, and install a shade sail

Please bring a rake, shovel or power tools

WILDLIFE PRESENTATION (FREE)

9AM - 2PM, Naturalist Cabin, Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 Join the Russell Lands Naturalist at Russell Crossroads for an informative exhibit featuring wet wildlife! russellcrossroads.com/events.html (256) 496.2710

Monday, August 21

Team TBD

4:30PM - 6PM, Autauga Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St Prattville , AL, 36067 A time for teens to hang out, create, collaborate, and inspire one another. This month, we’ll discuss what the group hopes to accomplish with this team. We’ll “roll” into the school year with roll shaped snacks. Ages 13-18 appl.info (334) 365-3396

Thursday, August 24

Community Market 2023 (FREE)

4PM - 7PM, Main Street, 231 Hill St Wetumpka, AL, 36092 The Community Market showcases a variety of handmade, homemade, and homegrown products created by local artisans, and farmers. It features over 30 unique booths with vendors and one-of-akind items each month. mainstreetwetumpka.org (334) 478-3926

Rodney Carrington

($46.50-$66.50)

7PM - 9PM, The Montgomery Performing Arts Centre at Renaissance Montgomery, 201 Tallapoosa St Montgomery, AL, 36104 Rodney Carrington performs live at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. mpaconline.org (334) 481-5100

Friday, August 25

Friday on the Green – KURT MCKINNEY AND CHUCK LOFTON (FREE)

6:30PM - 8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 It has been a while since they have been here, Kurt is one of the most talented musicians around this area and is a great accompanist to a number of singers! Chuck,

shows off his ‘Nawlins’ roots with a true southern sound! Paired together we get an awesome evening of great music! russelllands.com (256) 397.1019

Saturday, August 26

Hog Days of Summer Union Station, Montgomery

The Druids Charity Club is pleased to announce their 6th annual BBQ and Americana Music festival. ‘The Hog Days of Summer’ is a charity event benefitting Hogs for the Cause and other carefully selected local charities. Our best lineup yet will be rocking the shed; spanning blues, rock, soul, country, roots, and other Americana influences. Once again, our patrons can look forward to enjoying BBQ from the River Region’s finest BBQ establishments. Schedule: Doors: 2:00. BBQ: upon entry. Music: 2:00 PM-10:00 PM Tickets: $40 in August; $45 Day of Show (gate only). Active Military/ Police/Fire/EMS/Student GA Ticket**: $30

Farmers Market

7AM - 12PM, On the Grove, Doster Road Prattville, AL, 36067 Join the City of Prattville for the Prattville Farmers Market every Saturday through August 26. The market will feature fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, along with local honey, homemade baked goods, jams, jellies, eggs, handmade bath and body products, plants and more! prattvilleal.gov (334) 595.0850

Zoo Volunteer Serve Day

9AM - 4:30PM, Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36110 We are looking for energetic individuals who want to volunteer in a beautiful and fun place. Volunteer commitment has allowed our Zoo to improve, expand programs, generate community involvement and support, and assist Zoo staff in daily Zoo operations. montgomeryzoo.com (334) 625-4900

Monday, August 28

Muses

4PM - 5PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL, 36117 River Region teens are invited to join the Muses Teen Council’s kick off meeting to join the Council, meet new and returning members, and learn about upcoming teen events and artist meet and greet opportunities in the new school year. mmfa.org (334) 625-4333

Not Your Average Knots

4:30PM - 6PM, Autauga Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St Prattville , AL, 36067 Crocheting, knitting, cross-stitching - the list is endless! If you love making art with yarn this group is for you. Please bring your own materials. appl.info (334) 365-3396

Thursday, August 31

Community Market 2023 (FREE)

4PM - 7PM, Main Street, 231 Hill St Wetumpka, AL, 36092 The Community Market showcases a variety of handmade, homemade, and homegrown products created by local artisans, and farmers. It features over 30 unique booths with vendors and one-of-akind items each month.

mainstreetwetumpka.org (334) 478-3926

Labor Day Weekend featuring Hot Air Balloon Glow & Fireworks

Through Labor Day, Robin Lake Beach, Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, GA Light up your Labor Day with a three-day celebration at Callaway Resort & Gardens! Stay and play all day with garden and beach access, waterfront activities like putt putt, and endless entertainment including the beloved Birds of Prey show. Spend sun-kissed days splashing in the waters of Robin Lake Beach and racing across the inflatable mountains of floating obstacle course Aqua Island. After a day full of fun, stay after sundown to watch the beach transform with the light of gigantic, glowing Hot Air Balloons and three nights of fireworks! callawaygardens.org

Friday, September 1

Epic Dreams & Aeg Presents:

Southern Soul & Blues Lover’s Fest ($49-$75) 8PM - 10PM, The Montgomery Performing Arts Centre at Renaissance Montgomery, 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 All White Affair Event starring TK Soul, Big Robb, Westlove, PK2, King South hosted by MC Lightfoot. mpaconline.org (334) 481-5100

Friday, September 1 & Saturday, September 2

Labor Day Weekend Music Fest at Crossroads

Labor Day Weekend music is back at Russell Crossroads for two nights! YES, two nights of music on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Oh and by the way, there is no charge! theamponlakemartin.com (256) 397.1019

Friday, September 8 Friday on the Green –Chasing Shadows (FREE) 6:30PM8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL, 35010 It’s always fun to have new artists to Friday On The Green, this week Chasing Shadows will make their Green Stage debut! russelllands.com (256) 397.1019

Saturday, September 9

ANC Honey Festival ($5) 9AM - 2PM, NaturePlex, 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL, 36054 There will be honey for sale, kids activities, live music and much more! Festival Day will also include plant/gardening presentations, specialty vendors, and a Lanark plant sale. alabamawildlife.org (334) 285-4550

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Please send calendar info to editor@riverregionparents.com.

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One

The Entity, a military AI program, has gone rogue and is controlling the world’s digital assets from its position in a downed Russian submarine. It can only be overcome by a two-part key, so Ethan and his team set out to find both parts. Every major power on earth wants to get the keys – and so do other bad actors. This film doesn’t measure up to the rest of the franchise, being both incoherent and bloated. The expected action elements are derivative, and the pacing drags through a nearly three hour runtime And it’s only Part One Photo ©Paramount Pictures

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

Indiana Jones and his goddaughter, Helena, are on a quest for Archimedes’ Dial, an ancient artefact reputed to predict astrological events. Also on the hunt is a Nazi scientist named Voller, who intends to retroactively change the outcome of World War II. Harrison Ford may well be getting old, but this film shows that he’s still got enough charisma to helm a major action movie. And this is a good one: despite a clumsy ending, this is a fast-paced action flick with enough nostalgia to please franchise fans. Photo © Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Ruby Gillman: Teenage Kraken

When Ruby takes an unexpected dip in the ocean, she learns the truth about herself and her family. She’s a kraken, granddaughter of the Queen of the Krakens, and destined to become a powerful guardian of the sea – if she can avoid monsterhunting sailors and crafty mermaids. This movie provides 90 minutes of decent storytelling, solid animation and reassuring messages about self-acceptance. It also features memorable voice talent, with a particularly fine contribution from Jane Fonda. What it lacks is any sense of magic. Photo ©Universal Pictures

Sound

After spending 12 years tracking down child predators, Tim Ballard is on a mission to save trafficked children – and one little girl in particular. When the government revokes his authorization over concerns about funding and jurisdiction, he goes solo through the jungles and criminal underworld of Colombia. This movie highlights a serious problem and gives a voice to abused children. Unfortunately, it offers simplistic solutions and, despite sensitive filming, feels borderline exploitative. Photo ©Angel Studios

Ballister Boldheart is ready to become the first commoner to be knighted – until disaster strikes and he must flee into the forest. Determined to clear his name and save the kingdom, he joins forces with Nimona, a shapeshifter with a thirst for vengeance. This is a beautifully animated film with expansive world-building and a deeply layered story. Parents will want to be aware of some fantasy violence and a same-sex kiss when considering it for family viewing Photo ©Netflix

agement. My leg, like motherhood, reminds me to creatively overcome obstacles and to persevere with grace.

RRP: How do you mother well when raising three children with different personalities?

AA: Our three, just like all children, are created with different gifts and personalities and are deeply loved. Striving to embrace and cherish each character means intently studying each one and discovering what reaches each of them. My mother, Ann (Tankersley) Phillips, has been an amazing example.

RRP: How did you handle your children’s transition into adulthood?

AA: Handling these transitions required a lot of love, grace, forgiveness, and laughter. The biggest challenge is navigating the different stages of parenting- training, disciplining, coaching, and befriending. There were days of sadness for me when they left home and giddy excitement as they faced new chapters. But the key is finding joy and peace in each stage.

RRP: What was the most difficult challenge you faced as a mother?

AA: Watching our children hurt. My heart aches when they have struggled for whatever reason. As a mom, I want to fix things, but allowing the children to face difficulties has been necessary.

RRP: You mentioned that being a mother is the most incredible and challenging journey. What advice would you give to new moms?

AA: During my first pregnancy, an older lady with a beautiful Southern drawl stated, “Motherhood will beat the selfishness out of you.” She was right! Some of those early sleepless nights felt like a beating, and some of those heartbreaking later days felt like a pummeling. Being parents is our greatest gift, privilege, and development tool. So for new moms, I would love to sit, grab a cup of tea/coffee, chat and affirm them. Regarding giving advice, love your husband, embrace your newest adventure, and choose health and rest.

RRP: With all adult children, is there anything you would have done differently and why?

AA: I would be more patient and relaxed. I would focus on my heart and not external things. My children do not need my judgment or monologues; they need a listening ear, snippets of wisdom, and loads of encouragement.

RRP: How has being a mother impacted your personal and professional life?

AA: Being a mother has given me better perspective, understanding, and abilities. Motherhood is sacrificial love. It requires looking at the needs of others instead of focusing on the self. Having this mindset has profoundly changed me. Parenting has been the most challenging job of my life and has shown me my weaknesses and stretched me. I think this stretching can produce perseverance, character, and hope.

Ann Amster has been married to Troy Amster for 31 years. They have three children: Jack (26), Thomas (24), and Mary Evelyn (21).

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