River Region Parents Newcomers Special Edition

We are the dedicated doctors and teams employed by Baptist Health. Located throughout the River Region, we are experts in multiple specialties working together as a medical group using the health system’s expansive resources. Bringing the most current advances to patients, we’re the only health system in Central Alabama to deliver a full continuum of care. Our focus is to keep you healthy while providing an excellent patient experience, using the most advanced clinical technology and quick access to patient records for more coordinated, efficient care.

Primary Care

We know your health and wellness starts with primary care. Our Family and Internal Medicine providers offer comprehensive services from routine checkups to preventative care.

Specialized Care

For specialty care, you’ll find leading physicians specializing in a number of practice areas with numerous locations throughout Central Alabama.

Connected Care

When you choose Baptist Health, you’ll also benefit from our connection with Montgomery Cancer Center, Crossbridge Behavioral Health and nearly 40 outpatient facilities offering advanced services in many specialties.

The providers you know. The health system you trust.

Delivering JOY!

Award-Winning Maternity Care

As the leading provider of family-centered maternity care in the River Region, Baptist Health works to make your childbirth experience one of comfort, joy and love. We offer a wide range of labor and delivery services–including childbirth classes, breastfeeding support, maternal fetal medicine specialists, NICU and an OB emergency department.

It’s why we deliver more babies than any other healthcare provider in Central Alabama. Learn more at BaptistFirst.org

Celebrating Dad!

Moving with Kids

A few weeks ago, I was feeling nostalgic and decided to take a walk in one of the local neighborhoods where I grew up. For most families, the phrase “we moved around a lot” means they relocated to different cities. However, our family moved around a lot in the same city throughout my childhood. So where I walked recently allowed me to walk past three houses we lived in... yes, in that same neighborhood! Memories flooded my mind and heart as I was reminded of friendships on each street, front yard football games, trick-or-treating until my pillow case was overflowing, and riding my bike to the elementary school at the front of the neighborhood. I even took a few videos with my phone and sent them to my sister in Orange Beach to see if she could guess precisely where I was!

While I love to travel and do so often, I’ve never had much desire to move away from this area. For starters, the River Region is in a great central location. It is close to the lake, beach, and fun cities like Atlanta, Nashville, and New Orleans. Besides these conveniences, we’re also a family-friendly community offering fun attractions, activities, kid-friendly dining options, excellent education choices and medical care, plus so much more.

As we welcome summer, we are excited to welcome new families to the area with our 2023 Family Newcomers Guide! Whether you’ve arrived due to a job transfer, are a military family newly stationed here, or have landed here for another reason, we want to help your family get to know our great community. And if you have lived here a long time like me, share this issue with new neighbors and families at church and school.

Our Newcomers Guide lists our top picks in categories like Where to Learn, Where to Play, Where to Eat, and Where to Grow. In addition, you’ll find recommendations for pediatricians, childcare centers, schools, annual events, restaurants, local attractions, and more. Our advertisers are highlighted, and we hope you will check into the services they are excited about providing for your family. Also, you’ll want to follow some of the excellent advice Kailyn Rhinehart provides in her article, 7 Effective Tips for Moving Into a New House with Kids.

June 18 is Father’s Day, and in her article, 10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Dad, Rebecca Hastings shares fresh, fun ideas for honoring the father or father figure in your family’s life. And make sure to check out our 4th of July listing for all the exciting happenings coming our way to celebrate Independence Day!

Here’s to cherished fathers, new River Region families, and a summer full of making memories with the ones we love!

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

Rebecca Hastings

Jan Pierce

Kailyn Rhinehart

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

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Raising Empathetic Kids

Everyone has two types of friends. One friend will listen to your issues, but is just there for you to vent. The other is a friend who is able to understand your problems by relating to your point of view. Both friends are good friends, but the differ ence between these two types of people is the skill of empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Without empathy, we cannot connect with others effectively. It allows us to build stronger relationships with friends and family. Empathy is a skill that every parent has to learn and teach to their children.

As a parent, focus on your kid’s behaviors from their point of view. For example, if they are crying, do not focus on them being a “cry baby.” Instead understand that they are trying to communicate

something and that may be the only way they know to get your attention.

Teaching empathy to our children is a long and laborious task. Unfortunately, in our extremely selfish and entitled society, it is obvious that parents are blind to their childrens’ lack of empathy. So how do we teach our children the skill of empathy? Developing empathy can be broken into two categories: Imitation and Understanding.

Empathy development begins in babies through imitation. Mirror neurons allow us to naturally imitate the facial expressions, emotions, reactions, and behaviors of those around us. Research has shown that young children who accurately imitate others are more likely to correctly determine the emotions of others as they mature. This is why it is so important to spend face to face time with your baby

playing games like “Patty Cake”. As your child grows, gently use your hand to guide your child’s hand when necessary to ensure they know the right way to do activities (cleaning up toys, song motions, sports, etc). Remember, your child needs you, not your cell phone.

Empathy continues to grow through experiences. A life full of diverse experiences increases a person’s ability to understand others more clearly. When we encounter people with whom we have something in common, high levels of “feel good” hormones (dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins) are released in the brain, creating a positive connection. This is why it is so important to expose your child to a wide variety of activities, people, and knowledge. The more exposure you give your child, the better he/she will be at understanding different points of view and connecting with people.

Mastering empathy takes tremendous practice and patience. To raise an empathetic child, you must model empathy and begin teaching this skill to your child very early. It continues to develop through exposure to a variety of people and experiences. So do not be afraid to push your children to play games they do not find interesting, read books about things they do not like, and take them places they do not want to go. Help them build relationships with people who have had a variety of emotions and experiences. Also, expose them to people who live out similar values that your family has in diverse ways. This promotes understanding. It might be difficult and painful in the beginning, but the payoff is enormous!

Father’s Day with the Montgomery Biscuits

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

Sunday, June 13 * 3:33 p.m.

Father’s Day Pint Glass Giveaway presented by Common Bond Brewers

There’s no better way Day than with your park! And be sure to get here early to get a Biscuits branded pint glass! | Gates: 2:30pm | First 500

by CBS 8 WAKA

Bring your dog out for fun in the sun!

Pre-Game Catch on the Field

Bring your glove and a ball to play catch in the outfield from 2:30pm - 3:00pm

Post-Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Coca-Cola

Arti Gras

July 1 & 2 * 9am to 4 pm

Russell Crossroads

The twelfth annual Arti Gras will be held on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Artisans and patrons from all over the Southeast gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! Visit russellcrossroads.com/events. html for more details.

Water Lantern Festival

Saturday, June 17, 5 p.m. Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery

Water Lantern Festival was Voted #1 Best Cultural Festival by USA TODAY. Water Lantern Festival is a floating lantern event that is all about connections. Magical nights include food, games, activities, vendors, music and the beauty of thousands of lanterns adorned with letters of love, hope and dreams reflect upon the water. As the sun begins to set on the evening sky, watch your unique lantern drift out into the water as it joins other lanterns carrying hope, love, happiness, healing, peace, and connection. It’s a night that you’ll never forget. Tickets and info at www. waterlanternfestival.com/montgomery.php.

Main Street Wetumpka Community Market

Thursday, June 8 * 4 pm to 7 pm

231 Hill Street, Wetumpka

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. FREE! Visit mainstreetwetumpka.org.

Free Fishing Day in Alabama

Saturday, June 10

Free Fishing Day in Alabama for Public Waters (FREE) Alabamians and out-ofstate visitors alike will have the opportunity to fish for free in most public waters including both freshwater and saltwater. Free Fishing Day allows residents and non-residents to enjoy the outstanding fishing Alabama has to offer without purchasing a fishing license. The event is part of National Fishing and Boating Week, which runs June 3-11.

Visit outdooralabama.com.

Rosa Parks Museum

Juneteenth Celebration

Saturday, June 17 * 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Rosa Parks Museum, Montgomery Event will feature live music, a tour of the museum, local food and merchandise, informational vendors, arts and crafts, and an authentic 1950s Montgomery city bus. Ms. Monique Hopkins from the Sickle Cell Foundation will be providing Sickle Cell Education and Screenings. For more information, please contact Ms. Donna Beisel at 334-8327295 or email at dbeisel@troy.edu.

Pike Road Summer Fest

Thursday, June 29 * 6 to 9:30 pm * 6281 Trotman Road, Montgomery, AL

The Town of Pike Road is excited to invite the community to SummerFest, a familyfriendly fireworks show at the Pike Road Agriculture, Recreation & Performing Arts Park. Parking will begin at 6 p.m. at Rolling Hills Park (6001 Rolling Hills Blvd). Please enter by Rolling Hills Blvd. Handicap parking will be available at the East Entrance of the PRARPAP, near the ball fields. Familyfriendly areas with food trucks, kids’ activities like inflatables and yard games, and green space for your lawn chairs and picnic blankets will be open from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.* The ball fields will also be open for picnics, play and viewing the fireworks. Then, fireworks will light up the sky just after dark!

*Picnics are welcome, but NO alcoholic beverages are permitted at SummerFest. Lawn chairs and picnic blankets are welcome, but NO tents. Visit pikeroad.us.

Peach Jam Jubilee

Saturday, June 24 * 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. * Clanton City Park

Peach Jam Jubilee is a free outdoor festival featuring live music from country’s greatest artists along with arts and craft vendors, food trucks, inflatables, hot air balloon rides and so much more! You’ll find something for the entire family at this one day event celebrating Chilton County’s peach crop and farmers. Call (205) 755.2400 or visit peachjamjubilee.com.

Eastchase Farmer’s Market Celebration

Saturday, June 24 * 7 am to 12 pm

The Shoppes at Eastchase

The market will be located near Sephora and H&M. This year is going to be bigger and better than ever with all of your favorite vendors and some fun, new vendors!

Join us every last Saturday of the month for a Farmers Market celebration! Enjoy even more vendors and a HUGE Garden Cart Giveaway! For more information, visit theshoppesateastchase.com.

Alexander City Jazz Fest

June 9-10

The Amp on Lake Martin and Strand Park, Alex City

Friday, June 9: Blackbird Pickers (6 – 7 pm), Adam Ezra Group (7:30 – 8:30 pm), Eddie 9V (9 – 10:30 pm)

Saturday, June 10: Certainly So (6 – 7 pm), Of Good Nature (7:30 –8:30 pm), Big Something (9 – 10:30 pm) Free parking plus food and drink vendors. Visit alexcityjazzfest.com.

2023 Juneteenth Celebration

Saturday,

June 17

2 pm to 6pm Riverwalk

Amphitheater Entertainment, Food Trucks, Vendors, Kids Zone, Educational Presentations & Cultural Art Exhibits! Featuring music entertainment by 2nd Coming. Call (334) 625.2118 or visit montgomeryal.gov for more information.

In addition to being skilled educators, middle school teachers impact children in many ways. They guide students through some of their most formative years as they transition from elementary school, preparing them for the knowledge and skills they’ll need in high school and beyond. During the middle school years, teachers help develop, motivate, and nurture learning. And that’s exactly what this teacher of the month demonstrates in Montgomery, AL.

Mr. Oliver McLemore is a 6th-grade Geography and 8th-grade U.S. History educator, plus JV soccer coach at Trinity Presbyterian School. He graduated from Auburn University and obtained his degree in Education with Social Studies specification.

Mr. McLemore became a middle school teacher because junior high students are impressionable and eager to learn. He shares, “It’s exciting because you never know what their conversations will be about or their actions.” In addition to teaching, Mr. McLemore has had a passion for playing soccer since childhood. As an adult, he continued his love for the sport coaching soccer in Budapest, Hungary.

Oliver McLemore Trinity Presbyterian School

While teaching and shaping the lives of our youth, Mr. McLemore has goals he applies in his classroom. First, encourage students to be lifelong learners, as this instills a mindset of growing, learning, and impacting others. Also, motivate students to think on their feet, to be able to discuss topics with people who have opposing viewpoints, and remain authentic in their morals and faith. Finally, take advantage of utilizing technology, but also understand it’s necessary to use traditional and unconventional methods.

Teachers play a valuable role in molding young minds and encouraging them to see the world outside of their immediate daily operations. As Mr. McLemore practices pedagogy, he encourages students to stop and think instead of just memorizing or reacting. Further, he feels that education is always best with support from home because children need to experience a community of people encouraging them through knowledge and wisdom.

After retirement, Mr. McLemore would love to retire with his wife on a quiet river with moderate outdoor work and activities.

Oliver McLemore has been married to Pamela for 16 years. They have five children (including two sets of twins): Thomas (14), Rebi (13), Charlie (13), Sadie (10), Joseph (10).

Looking Back on a Year of Excellence

We have a very eventful and fastpaced school year in the books and completed and we are gearing up for next school year already. A busy summer has just begun for many of us in Montgomery Public Schools. But for now, I’d like to take a moment to look back on the 2022-2023 school year, my first as superintendent of MPS.

I have been amazed by our students here at MPS, and I wish I could recognize all of them in this column. The most rewarding part of my time as superintendent has been meeting students and seeing them excel.

Among the many students who impressed me this year were the 19 who received Legacy Scholarships through our partnership with the Equal Justice Initiative. Every high school in the district, traditional

and magnet, was represented among this inaugural group of Legacy Scholars. Each one received a $10,000 scholarship to the school of their choice. Congratulations to Alberta Shuford, Alniajai Whatley, Andrea Smith, Bradyn Stallworth, Darryl Dees, Elizabeth Diaz, Erin Robinson, Jamerio Robinson, Joshua Maye, Kentavis Delbridge, Landon Townsend, Marti Baine, Mekaiyah Portis, Molly Mitchell, Paris Banks, Samantha Buhanan, Shakela Walton, Shaliah Lee, and Tiana Vanburen.

One of those scholars, Joshua Maye, also earned another prestigious distinction. He is one of 750 nationwide selected from a pool of more than 51,000 applicants to be named a Gates Scholar. This Jeff Davis High graduate was also selected, along with Joanna Joiner of LAMP High, for the YMCA of Greater Montgomery’s Hitchcock Award, which is given to two scholar athletes each year.

I am also honored to work alongside some dedicated and talented educators. A case in point is Dr. Bryan Cutter, principal of Dalraida Elementary. This year, he received the prestigious Milken Educator Award. He was the only educator in Alabama and one of

just 35 nationwide to receive this award. The Milken Family Foundation recognized him for a variety of accomplishments, including opening the River Region’s first STEM Innovation Lab this year.

Our partners have stepped up in a major way this year. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and Auburn University have helped robotics programs grow exponentially throughout the district. In addition, local government officials, the business community, faith leaders, nonprofits and community volunteers have all contributed to our success in various ways.

Finally, I’d like to recognize you, our supportive parents. Thank you for being involved in your children’s education, for finding time to invest in the transformational work that we have underway, and for everything else you do.

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 years of school administrative experience.

Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Catholic Hosts 2nd Annual Scholarship Breakfast

Montgomery Catholic Prep School held its 2nd Annual Scholarship Breakfast on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at the Wynlakes Country Club ballroom. This year we awarded 23 scholarships to 37 current & new students for the 2023-2024 academic year. A total of $115,000 in Scholarships was awarded including 3 college scholarships for outgoing seniors, 21 High School students, 5 Middle School students, and 8 Elementary Students. Montgomery Catholic is proud to award individual scholarships to MCPS students annually.

Montgomery Catholic was blessed to award 3 new scholarships for the 2023-2024 school year. These scholarships were given in memory of Coach Wulf Koch, Luke J. Whetstone ‘18, and in honor of Richard & Reba Foley’s belief and dedication to Catholic education. Thank you to our Montgomery Catholic benefactors, Total Image and the Knights of Columbus Councils 12150 & 893 who generously donate scholarships to our students annually. Please visit www.montgomerycatholic.org for more information about each of our scholarships.

ACA Recognizes Two Valedictorians

This year’s Senior class was amazingly talented academically. 77% of the class have a GPA that is 3.0 or higher and 25% have a GPA that is a 4.0 or higher. However, two of those rose to the top and were named co-valedictorians of the Class of 2023. Mr. Preston Hicks and Mr. Hayes Hunt were both recognized for their outstanding academic achievements, and both were named Valedictorians. We are so proud of these two young men and how hard they have worked through the year.

MA Senior Signs to Play Tennis for UNA

Montgomery Academy Senior Whit Davis, a member of the Varsity Boys Tennis team, signed his national Let ter of Intent to play tennis at the University of North Alabama this coming fall. Whit finishes his career at MA with the most wins in school history (an overall record of 114-7) for a win percentage of 94%. Congratulations, Whit!

Eight Saint James Choral Students Perform at All-State Festival

During the weekend of March 3-5, eight choral students from Saint James School attended the Alabama Vocal Association All State Festival.

Students went through a rigorous audition process to make this prestigious ensemble. They worked with world renowned conductors on advanced repertoire in the amazing facilities of the BJCC in Birmingham. The festival ended with a professionally recorded concert in the BJCC Concert Hall. Students who were selected to make this ensemble were Ruthie Blakeney, Lizzy Dickens, Anna Dickey, Rain Johnson, Abigail Roark, Selina Sun, Dominic Troccia, and TJ Vance.

Macon East Academy Knights Finish

AISA AAA Baseball State Runner-Up

The Knights baseball team finished an amazing season as AISA AAA State Runner-Up. They completed their season with a record of 32-11. The Knights cruised through the state tournament. They beat Clarke Prep and Bessemer in the semi-finals, thus advancing the Knights to the winner’s bracket against Glenwood. Glenwood overpowered the Knights with a sweep of the first two games, winning, 11-1 and 9-3. Jabe Boroff, Barett Spaeth, and Gunner Justice earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team. The team is comprised of 8 seniors, Jack Jones, Deonte Powell, Sawyer Nelson, Jabe Boroff, Hunter Timmerman, Jason Tatum, Camden Bell, and Matthew Kitchens. All seniors contributed tremendously this year with remarkable athletic ability and true leadership.

Two Knights have signed athletic scholarships to participate in baseball at the collegiate level. Jabe Boroff will be playing for Enterprise State Community College in Enterprise, Alabama. Camden Bell signed earlier in the year with the Huntingdon Hawks baseball team! Jabe Boroff, Matthew Kitchens, and Deonte Powell were selected as members of the Senior AllStar Team and Barrett Spaeth and Gunner Justice were selected as members of the Junior All-Star Team. The All-Star baseball game was played at Paterson Field on Saturday, May 13, 2023.

Retiring Trinity Teacher Granted Parting Request

Mr. Robert McGowin retired from Trinity after 43 years of teaching, he had one request - that the school host a creative writing workshop for aspiring writers. Earlier this month, we did just that! Mr. Jim Reed, an accomplished author, speaker, columnist, and editor of the Birmingham Arts Journal spent an afternoon with students sharing his knowledge and tidbits for storytelling.

Montgomery County Schools

Katie Britt visits ACA

Our 4th grade students do a Wax Museum every year, where they get to research a public figure in Alabama and dress up like that figure. This year one of our 4th grades, Blythe Roberts, dressed up like Senator Katie Britt. Senator Britt’s staff found out about it and told Katie and she wanted to come visit and meet Blythe. We welcomed Senator Katie Britt and the 4th grade class was so excited to meet her. She was so kind and spoke so sincerely to our students about learning from your failures and always looking to serve others. We cannot thank Senator Britt enough for the kind words and taking time to pour into our students.

More Than 300 MPS Students Take Part in Elementary Robotics Competition

Student robotics enthusiasts converged at Brewbaker Technology Magnet High to show off the skills they have learned throughout the year. The second annual Elementary Robotics Competition featured 23 schools and more than 300 students. Robotics programs have been growing at every grade level in Montgomery Public Schools, thanks in part to generous donations and partnerships with Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and Auburn University. As capabilities grow, so does student interest, with more and more signing up for this fun and engaging activity that teaches coding, engineering, teamwork and more.

Southlawn Elementary finished in first place, followed by Morningview in second, Dozier in third, Halcyon in fourth and Flowers in fifth.

Lower School Art Show at Trinity

The Trinity lower school art show was so much fun! Students, parents, grand parents, and friends filled the halls admiring the many talents of our students.

Spears Griffin enjoyed showing his artwork to his parents.

TEA Professional Development Workshop

Charlene Jackson (consultant and former educator) provided a professional development workshop with T.E.A. staff on the importance of “Bridging the Gaps and Benchmarking” in students’ learning. Students can become overwhelmed when trying to meet the demands of school requirements, along with being exposed to negative and positive viewpoints. However, when more emphasis is placed on positive thinking, students can develop a more structured and balanced approach to learning. Mrs. Jackson used five words to discuss positive perspectives:

1. Accountability: Everyone is accountable for his or her actions.

2. Process - Assessment: Weekly tests (formative) and final tests (summative) are necessary to ensure students are meeting the benchmarks.

3. Strategy: Use the S.M.A.R.T. Chart to help students achieve goals for meeting assessments, lesson plans, and life goals.

4. Goals - What you aim for: Have a plan of action and use strategies.

5. Confidence – Selfassurance: Feel good about yourself and be self-motivated. Develop your “reason why”. Furthermore, it is essential that students understand their roles and what is necessary to keep them on track to meet the requirements for their grade level. Her final words to students, “Compete against yourself, and be better every day.”

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

Christian Academy

Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential

AISA Blue Ribbon School

ACA’s Julie Waldo Places 3rd in State

Julie Waldo, a 9th grader at ACA, has placed 3rd in Alabama High School Athletic Association Girls 1A-3A. She has worked

Celebrating Cultures at Montgomery Christian

Montgomery Christian School third graders share their culture through food. Each student is assigned a day to provide a taste of their culture. Students have enjoyed foods like chili dogs, cajun turkey and dressing, tamales, Jamaican plantains and barbecue. Students talk with their families about their culture then present to the class. The culture study is a hands-on experience that goes along with the Social Studies unit

Montgomery County Schools

County Donates Patrol Car to Law Enforcement Service Academy at MPACT

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the Montgomery County Commission have donated a decommissioned patrol car to the Law Enforcement Services Academy at MPACT. Sheriff Derrick Cunningham said the vehicle has all the equipment that comes with a patrol car that is currently in use and is identical to what they would use in a law enforcement job. He added that some of the students are already cadets with the Sheriff’s Office and that having the patrol car to train with will give them a head start on their career.

Cunningham joined Montgomery County Commission Chairman Doug Singleton and instructor Curtis Daniels to announce the new learning tool along with students from the Law Enforcement Services Academy.

and Rev. Rushell McElroy, Jr., the mother and brother of TEA Academy’s CEO and founder. The visit was in honor of Mother’s Day. Rev. McElroy travels yearly from Chicago, Illinois to visit his mother and express his love, adoration, and appreciation for her. Before leaving, he paused to offer blessings upon the school, staff, students, and board members as the school year comes to an end.

Dynam te

Montgomery County Schools

Saint James Students Take Top Honors at AISA State Art Competition

Saint James School congratulates the elementary, middle, and high school students who placed at the AISA State Art Competition on Tuesday, April 4th at Faulkner University. Saint James had one elementary student, one middle school student, and thirteen high school students compete at AISA State. Among those students, four students received awards. From elementary, Arush Patel placed 2nd in Color Drawing. In the middle school division, Sara Johnston won 1st place in Printmaking. Among the high school students, Caroline Gregory won 1st place in Painting, and Steven Na placed 2nd in Drawing Non-Color. Among the state winners, Sara Johnston’s artwork will go on to represent Alabama in the Southeastern Commission of Independent Schools (SECIS) Art Show. The SECIS is composed of the independent school associations of Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and South Carolina.

Lighthouse Christian Enjoys Field Day

On April 28th grades K5-8th participated in Field Day. Students were divided into teams of five and competed against each other in the obstacle course, football throw, sack race and many other activities.

Sara Walker Foundation Award at ACA

Sara Pigg Walker is one of ACA’s most beloved alumni. This year the Sara Walker Foundation sponsored ACA’s EagleFITT 5k and also awarded a $5,000 scholarship to one senior. All scholarship applicants had to provide letters of recommendation as well as complete as essay prompted by portions of the journal Sara kept while battling cancer. Hunter Barfoot was the recipient of the inaugural Sara Walker Foundation Scholarship. Coach Steve Phillips, Sara’s uncle, presented the award on behalf of the Pigg family.

TEA’s Mother’s Day Celebration

Mother’s Day is celebrated throughout the world; even though it originated in the United States as a result of a women’s group promoting friendship and health.

TEA Christian Academy, Inc. held its annual Mother’s Day Luncheon, and students presented their mothers with poems they had written as a class assignment. Students understand that Mother’s Day is all about celebrating the most important woman in your life.

Montgomery County Schools

MPS Students Make It to VEX Robotics World Championship Finals

Penguin Robotics, a team of siblings who attend MPS schools, made history at the VEX Robotics World Championship this year. They finished the season as the No. 10 team in the world and were the first Alabama VEX IQ team to compete in a world championship finals match. Also, while the team competes at the middle school level, two of its members were in elementary school.

The team consists of Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet student Abraham Yang and Forest Avenue Academic Magnet students Johanna and Elijah Yang. They competed against about 800 middle school teams representing about 50 countries and all 50 states.

MA Lower School Culture Study

Now in its 26th year, The Montgomery Academy Lower School Culture Study offers students a glimpse into life in different parts of the world, and has featured such countries as India, Brazil, South Korea, Germany and Japan. This year’s culture focus: Australia!

Through research, hands-on projects, visits from native Australians, and special meals in the cafeteria, students learned about the people, the land, and the animals of this fascinating country. By the middle of February, the children had studied Australia in every discipline - music, math, geography, STEM Lab, computer, language, and art. This immersive experience ended with a week of “festival” activities, as students made traditional Ab original clap sticks and didgeridoos, practiced throwing boomerangs, and learned an Aboriginal dance. What an aMAzing experience at the Lower School!

Macon East Academy K4 Class Enjoys Learning

Mrs. Hathcock is getting creative with her K4 class! They learned new ways to review sight words! Sight word BINGO with cereal was approved by her K4 class! They also had fun learning about the weather recently and made edible cloud art! We have some great hands-on teachers and the students in our preschool program love learning!

Carver’s Joshua Maye Chosen as Gates Scholar

George Washington Carver High School student, Joshua Maye, was chosen as a Gates Scholar! Out of about 51,000 applicants, nationwide, Joshua is one of just 750 to receive this prestigious honor.

Dalraida QUEST Students Enjoy Lanark Field Trip

Misty Trussell’s 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade Dalraida QUEST students enjoyed a wonderful visit from Lanark School Tours where they participated in some wonderful brain activities! Our students have been learning all about the brain during the second semester of school, and this was a fun and exciting final activity for the school year! Thank you Lanark for challenging our brain senses!

Montgomery Catholic Hires Volleyball Coach

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is proud to announce the hiring of Jenn Denham as Head Volleyball Coach. Bringing years of experience at the high school and collegiate level to Montgomery Catholic’s volleyball program, Coach Denham will continue to elevate the state-champion ship caliber team. A Missouri native and 3rd generation catholic school graduate, Den ham brings the power of her faith and her love for the game to Montgomery Catholic. Jenn is a highly decorated high school and collegiate volleyball player. After college she followed in the footsteps of her Hall of Fame father, David Fall, who is a two-time Missouri Coach of the Year and back to back state champion coach in 2007 and 2008. Coach Denham served as Assistant Coach at Sacred Heart High School for five years alongside her father as the team compiled an overall record of 139-28-12. In 2022 the back-to-back state championship, fatherdaughter team was inducted into the Sacred Heart School Hall Of Fame. Jenn and husband, Randy, are proud parents to son, Rowan (5), and will be celebrating 20 years of marriage this year as their family settles down in Pike Road, AL. Coach Denham begins immediately getting the program ready for the 2023 season in an effort to repeat the State Championship performance of 2022.

Trinity K3 Students Study Bees

K3 students at Trinity School had an unBEElievable time with Farmer Allison. Farmer Allison brought some of her honeybees for students to see (in an enclosed case). She talked with them about the different kinds of bees, what bees do with pollen, and how honey is collected! She brought each student a honey stick to enjoy!

Montgomery County Schools

Saint James Math Team Wins Statewide Math Competition

The Saint James School high school math team traveled to the University of North Alabama on Saturday, April 15 to compete in the 43rd Alabama Statewide Mathematics Competition held at the University of North Alabama. For the second year in a row, the Saint James team won the state championship for Division Two. This event featured ciphering. The members on the team are HaeSoo (Jason) Jeong, Woohyun (Justin) Kang, Woochan Kim, Kelsey Shaffer, and Selina Sun. These students are sponsored by Saint James mathematics teacher

New High-Tech Library, Opens at Brewbaker Middle

The future has arrived at Brewbaker Middle School. MPS and Birmingham-based nonprofit Ed Farm revealed the new Library of Technology, aka The Loft, with scholars showcasing the array of hightech features now available to them. This revamped library includes a video lab, a podcast studio, a 3D printer, virtual reality, animation, coding, makerspaces, reading nooks and more. Students led tours and gave demonstrations of the amazing capabilities of this new space for 21st-century learning.

Ed Farm CEO Waymond Jackson said the Loft is an exciting step forward for the nonprofit and its biggest project to date. Dr. Melvin J. Brown, MPS superintendent, said the library is another step toward providing the equity, access and opportunity that all students deserve.

Dr. Brown cut the ribbon along with Jackson, Dr. Brenda Deramus-Coleman, Montgomery County Board of Education

Macon East Fourth Graders Enjoy Field Trip

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.

Macon East Students Participate in AISA All-Star Football

Montgomery County Schools

Saint James Students Take Top Awards at ACTE Region 5 Tech Fair

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.

Saint James middle school and high school students recently placed in the Alabama Consortium of Technology in Education Regional Tech Fair for Region 5 in their respective levels and categories. These students all have the opportunity to go on to compete in the State ACTE Tech Fair. In Level 2, Molly Phillips won 1st Place in Audio. Matilda Buckner and Sean Woessner won first place in Digital Game Design, while Will Roark Walker Wilsford placed 2nd in Digital Game Design. placed 1st in Mul timedia Applications, Jamison Cantrell placed 1st in Robotics. Yeriel Kim and Phillips also placed 1st in Video Produc tion (group entry). Emerson Weeks placed 1st in Video Production (single entry).

For Level 3, Jack Davis placed 1st in Digital Game Design, and Aidan Saldanha won 1st place in Video Production. Aileen Mulligan won 2nd place in Robotics. In Level 4, Stella Kim won 1st Place in Multimedia. At Level 5, Brooke Bender won 1st place in Web Design, and Selina Sun 1st place in Multimedia. Alex An won 1st Place in Hardware Modification, and Alex Ruona won 2nd Place in Programming. Saint James School offers technology classes for all division levels.

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!

Montgomery Christian School End of Year Music, Art and Dance Program

On Thursday, May 11th, Montgomery Christian School celebrated its arts program with an end of year festival. Each student had a piece of art in the art show and each class performed by either singing songs or playing the bells. Girls in grades kindergarten through third grade performed a ballet dance. Music, art and ballet are an important part of Montgomery Christian School enrichments. The school is thankful to the community for the support of these programs.

Montgomery County Schools

MA Students Visit Jekyll Island

The Montgomery Academy seventh graders participated in the 4-H Environmental Education Program at Jekyll Island, GA. This field study program allowed our students to experience hands-on learning experiences in a real-world environment, and it encouraged teacher-student interactions in an atmosphere much different than the traditional classroom. Students took classes in Perch Dissecting, Seining, Coastal Geology, Salt Marsh Ecology, Maritime Forest Ecology, Beach Ecology, Endangered Species, Marine Mammals, and Fish Printmaking (Gyotaku). Students visited and explored Driftwood Beach where they were able to climb 200 petrified oak trees while hunting for hermit crabs and sea urchins. At the Tidelands Nature Center, students (and chaperones!) were able to get up close and personal with sea turtles, snakes, and even a baby alligator! The week culminated with making s’mores around a gia while telling historic tales and ghost stories of Jekyll Island.

From teacher Kim Jordan: “We loved being able to have our students develop an awareness, knowledge, and appreciation for the environment; cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and evaluation; and develop positive relationships among the students and teachers. Being able to use our scientific processes, such as observing, measuring, and classifying in the real world made each student’s experience so much more engaging

Montgomery Catholic New Middle and High School Assistant Principal

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is proud to welcome Dr. John Johnston to the Middle and High School Campus as Assistant Principal. Dr. Johnston brings more than three decades of classroom and administrative experience to Mont gomery Catholic as he embarks on a new chapter to both educate and share the Faith. School President, Justin Cas tanza, shared “Dr. Johnston is an enormous addition to our school community. He brings expertise and experience to our Middle and High School, but also the compassion, fairness, and love of Christ. Mrs. Aaron, Middle and High Principal, and I are excited about the opportunity to support the needs of our students and families with Dr. Johnston at our side.”

A native of Montgomery and graduate of Sidney Lanier High School, Dr. Johnston attended Auburn University at Mont gomery and earned a bachelor’s degree in social science education. He carved out a 33-year career working for Montgomery Public Schools serving as coach, teacher, and administrator while continuing to advance his education. Dr. Johnston has been married to his self-proclaimed greatest asset for 25 years, Rockie Johnston, who is a special education teacher. They have three wonderful children - Olivia, Scott, and Mia. The Johnston family attends St. Peter Catholic Church, where Dr. Johnston has been serv

Montgomery County Schools

MA Kindergarteners Study Matisse

After months of learning and experimenting and drawing and painting in BeeLee Tullos’s kindergarten art class at The Montgomery Academy, our youngest Eagles are given (nearly) free rein to create a selfportrait in the style of French painter Henri Matisse: big, abstract, and absolutely bursting with color all the way to the edges. Truly, no two paintings are ever alike and you’ll see a world of self-expression in every square inch of the final product.

TEA Christian Academy, Inc. Students Visits Troy State University

The students were excited to learn they would be visiting Troy State University’s campus in Troy, AL. Staff member Mr. Daniel Barlow served as the trip’s coordinator. He planned a full day of learning about the culture and life of Troy State University. The students learned about the enrollment criteria, campus housing, various career curricula, and extra-curricular activities. While visiting, students had the pleasure of enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. As a class assignment, the students provided noteworthy details regarding their trip.

Dalraida QUEST Student Top Winner in Contest

Dalraida Elementary School 4th grade QUEST student

Natalie Guidos Martinez was chosen as a top winner for the state in the State Farm Color The Concept Illustration Contest. Her winning illustration was for the concept “budget.” We are so proud of her hard work!

She is in Mrs. Misty Trussell’s 4th grade QUEST class.

The Eagleaires, The Montgomery Academy’s Lower School Chorus, recently performed at the Southern Star Music Festival in Atlanta they received “Supe rior” ratings. Under the direction of Choral Director Beverly Fain, the Eagleaires finished out their choral season with a final performance for their schoolmates and families.

on a field trip to the Montgomery public library on High Street. The fourth grade, second grade and first grade classes were able to see what the public library has to offer. Students toured the library, saw areas that they could visit on their own and areas to visit with a parent then spent time in the children’s area. In the chil dren’s area they looked at the books and played games on the interactive boards. Now MCS students know where they can go over the summer with their family to continue their reading as some students took home an application to apply for their very own public library card.

Macon East Lady Knights AISA AAA State Champions

Winning an amazing 62 games, the Lady Knights softball team stepped up with great leadership from our seniors and swept the competition at the AISA AAA state tournament. Entering the tournament as the third seeded team, the Lady Knights fought hard and went through the double-elimination bracket undefeated! In the state tournament at Lagoon Park May 4-6, MEA defeated Bessemer (17-8) and Glenwood (13-8) on the first day of play. On Friday, the Lady Knights got the win over Lee-Scott (8-6) to reach the finals. On Saturday afternoon, the Lady Knights faced Lee-Scott Academy again for the championship game. Macon East defeated the Warriors 8-7 on Jamya Powell’s walkoff hit in the bottom of the seventh to win the state championship. Kylee Smith, Casey Stengell, Jamya Powell and Miya Tatum made the All-Tournament team for Macon East.

In 23 previous AISA fastpitch tournaments, the Knights have had 18 appearances, nine championships, four runner-up appearances, 15 appearances in the final four and two fifth-place finishes.

Kylee Smith was selected as a member of the AISA Senior All-Star Team and Kaiden Byrom, Lathan Johnson, and Casey Stengell were selected as a member of the Junior All-Star Team. The All-Star softball game was played at Lagoon Park on Saturday, May 8, 2023.

Kylee Smith signed an athletic scholarship to participate in softball at the collegiate level at The University of Alabama in Huntsville.

PRHS Student Selected for BryantJordan Scholarship

Congratulations to Kasey Reybitz as she has been selected to represent Pike Road High School as the Region 2 Class 6A Scholar Athlete Winner in the Bryant-Jordan student-athlete scholarship program.

By being selected, Kasey won $3000 in scholarship money!

Pike Road Elementary Patriot Games

Patriot Games 2023 couldn’t have happened without all of the amazing lead learners, PE coaches, and especially the volunteers

PRIS Girls on the Run Complete 5K

Shout out to Pike Road Intermediate Girls on the Run group for completing their 5K! This organization really pours into our young

Pike Road Rising 4th Graders

and Montgomery Biscuits

Our C6 team had a great day on their last field trip for the year! They visited the Legacy Museum to accompany what they have been learning about civil rights in social studies. Then they celebrated the end of an awesome school year with a Biscuits baseball game!

Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary Scholarships

The Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary awarded its Community Service Scholarship for 2022-2023 to two excellent students. The two individuals were selected from a large pool of applications. Scholarships recipients Allison Bowen and Anna Glynn Lott were honored with an appreciation dinner on April 21, 2022. Bowen, daughter of Allen & Dawneese Bowen of Montgomery, is an upcoming graduate of Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School. She plans to attend Tennessee State University and major in Interior Design. Bowen is a member of Student Government Association Delegate, yearbook editor, Brew Tech track & field team captain, National Honors Society, National Technical Honor Society, National English Honor Society, Skills USA, and Scholar athletes vice president. She is a member of the track & field team and is the 2022 Outdoor State Champion and 2022 Indoor state runner-up. Bowen volunteers with the Tuskegee Marching Crimson Pipers, volunteers in food drives, prepared meals during the pandemic and assisted with preparing essential supplies for the Selma tornado victims. Lott, daughter of Glenn & Michele Lott of Cecil, is an upcoming graduate of Macon East Academy. She plans to attend Troy University and major in nursing. Lott is a member of the Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society (vice president), Macon East Scholars Bowl, Macon East Drama Club, Macon East Honors Society, Fellowship of Christian Students, National Honor Society, Chapel Band, Scholars Bowl, yearbook co-editor, and LIMUN Conference. She is a member of the volleyball, basketball, and softball team. Lott has been very active in volunteering with her school from assisting with various camps, field day, school fundraisers, deer hunt, Santa store and athletic events. Bowen and Lott both received $500.00. They have demonstrated a passion for volunteering while maintaining a level of academic

Macon East First Graders Visit Let’s Pretend Hospital

Macon East Academy first grade students have been busy! They recently visited the Let’s Pretend Hospital, an education program designed by Baptist Health that introduces children to healthcare in a fun and interactive way! Our class was “admitted” into the pretend hospital and had the opportunity to visit and learn more about the lab, the Harvey Heart Room, patient rooms, the oper ating room, radiology, the nursery, and the emergency room. They learned so much at each stop in their tour of the hospital!

Hope lives

Our dedicated doctors, nurses, researchers and staff are committed to finding a cure, so kids like Adrian can live their healthiest life – cancer free. We never give up hope of a world without childhood cancer and blood disorders, and that’s why we are here.

Autauga County Schools

Pine Level Elementary Pre-K Palooza

Autauga County Schools’ Pre-K classes came together to celebrate the end of the school year at the first annual ACS Pre-K Palooza. The ACS Pre-K Palooza was held at Pratt Park on Thursday, May 18th. All nine ACS Pre-K classrooms were in attendance at this inaugural event. Students, teachers, and families participated in a variety of fun activities including the splash pad, games, and free play on the playground. Each class had an awards/celebration time in which students received certificates and/or gifts from their teachers. ACS Pre-K Palooza was a great way to celebrate a fun year in Pre-K!

Daniel Pratt Student Publishes Book

Daniel Pratt sixth grader, Norah Cannon, is now a published author! Her debut book, Rebublic of Alchembrew: Guardian of the Sands, is now available for purchase on Amazon. Norah developed the idea for this book at age nine, but left it in her closet untouched for a few years before picking it back up, making a promise that she’d finish, putting in the necessary hard work, and then finding the confidence to submit it for publishing.

DPES is WILD About Learning

Students from Daniel Pratt Elementary School were all smiles as they enjoyed an unforgettable trip to the Alabama Safari in Hopehull, AL where they identified and fed the wild animals.

Learning Leadership through Service at Daniel Pratt

Junior Beta Club members from Daniel Pratt Elementary have showed up for the Prattville community in a big way this school year! The 64 member club has logged over 660 service hours ranging from food and clothing donations, tornado cleanup, Operation Christmas Child boxes, decorating floats for a parade, working hydration stations at local races, making cards for nursing homes, reading to younger children, volunteering at the animal shelter, and doing yard work for neighbors. They are truly learning what it means to lead by serving others!

Students PURPLE UP for Military Families at Prattville Intermediate School

On Friday, April 21st Prattville Intermediate celebrated Month of the Military Child’s “PURPLE UP,” where students rocked their purple to support and recognize military families. Prattville Intermediate School was also recently awarded the coveted “Purple Star” status for their commitment to students and families connected to the nation’s military.

Prattville Intermediate Student Wins 4th in Statewide Farm City Poster Contest

Prattville Intermediate School 6th Grader Alex O. won 4th place for the State of Alabama in the annual Farm City Poster Contest for her touching design of the theme “Sustaining for the Future.”

Autauga County Schools

Prattville Intermediate School Named a 2022 CLAS School of Distinction

Prattville Intermediate School was one of 32 schools statewide recognized as a 2022 School of Distinction by the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools as a part of the organization’s Banner School Award. This award “recognizes school programs that serve as outstanding educational models for other schools in Alabama.” Prattville Intermediate School, representing the State Board of Education District 5, was nominated for the school’s HOUSE System, which is a program that creates a sense of spirit, belonging, and friendly competition by assigning students to the Al truismo, Amistad, Isibindi, or Reveur houses developed by the Ron Clark Academy. This dynamic behavioral and academic support model builds character, relationships, and school spirit. “Our house program places every student into one of the four houses, and once placed, students can earn points based on their choices and subsequent actions inside or outside of school,” said Dr. Hosea Addison, Prattville Intermediate School principal. “Whether personally, socially, or academically, points are awarded for a student’s positive efforts as they work toward an end-of-year goal of being crowned that year’s champion.” The school’s program, now in its fourth year, sets the foundation for academic and personal growth while providing students opportunities to celebrate their efforts and build character. Their motto is “Four Houses, One Family,” which challenges students, encouraging them to take ownership of their individual success as well as the overall success of their school.

“Congratulations to these wonderful Alabama public schools, which provide excellent examples of the significant learning opportunities taking place in public education in Alabama. Further, the stakeholders at every school are to be commended for striving for excellence daily,” comments Vic Wilson, Ed.D., executive director of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS).

CLAS’ Banner School Award program was created in 2001 to spotlight schools in Alabama that showcase outstanding programs and service to students. This year, 208 school programs were nominated for this distinguished honor, with the top four programs in each state board of education district recognized for their “tremendous accomplishment.”

First Baptist Prattville First Baptist Prattville

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Tropic Falls is the tropical getaway with something for everybody—one ticket includes 23 theme park rides and the region’s biggest indoor water park! Open on select days is the all-new tropical wave pool, Big Water Bay, complete with Coastal Curl surf simulator. Hours vary— get all the details and tickets at VisitOWA.com!

THRILL, THEN CHILL.

The 2022-2023 school year has ended, and 852 graduates received diplomas signaling the end of their K-12 academic careers. I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments of these students!

The Elmore County High School senior class of 143 students was awarded nearly $3.2 million in scholarships. Thirteen graduates will enter military service, and 72 students are collegebound. Courtney Sides and Addi Ray were named Region 3 Bryant-Jordan winners. Joe Sewell Award recipients were Courtney Sides, Girls Overall Award, Allye Justiss, Girls Church, Community, & Character Award, and Matthew Stephenson, Boys Athletic Award. Valedictorian was Courtney Sides, and Co-Salutatorians were Dylan Wilson and Julia Thomas.

The Holtville High School senior class of 129 students earned approximately $2.97 million in scholarships. Sixteen graduates will enter military service, and 43 will pursue post-

secondary education. The Joe Sewell Boy’s Leadership Award went to Colton Wheeler, and Sam Silas received the Boys Church, Community, and Character Award. Seven seniors competed in the baseball state championship. Valedictorian was Tyler Michael Langley, and Salutatorian was Heath Jacob Abrams.

Stanhope Elmore High’s senior class of 240 students was awarded $2.8 million in scholarships. Fifteen graduates will enter military service, and 163 students are college-bound. Co-Valedictorians were Taylor Boyle and Averie Vulcano, and Salutatorian was Sara Black.

The 249 students in Wetumpka High School’s senior class have earned over $9.1 million in scholarships. Twenty-one students will enter military service, and 148 students will attend college. Joe Sewell Award recipients were Gavan Baxley, Overall Boys Award, Becca Worrell, Girls Leadership Award, Kiley Sisson, Girls Academic Award, Taylor Gunn, Boys Academic Award. Logan Weighall received the Regional Bryant-Jordan Achievement Award and the W. Edgar Welden Service Scholarship. The Valedictorian was Dylan LaPorte, and the Salutatorian was Taylor Gunn.

The EDGE, Elmore County’s virtual school, graduated 91 seniors. Four graduates will enter military service, and 15 students are college-bound. Valedictorian was Madison Kisner, and Salutatorian was Cameron Lewis. Our students have taken advantage of a wide variety of course offerings, including Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, and/or Career-Technical Education courses and are well prepared to enter college or the work force. They have collectively earned scholarship offers totaling over $18 million! Congratulations to our graduates and we wish you well in your new endeavors!

The end of each school year provides an opportunity to “look behind and plan ahead.” We will reflect and fine-tune to offer our students optimal opportunities to learn, grow, and achieve their maximum potential in the upcoming school year! Every student empowered ~ every student succeeds!

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

Elmore County Schools

High School Beta Club at The Edge

This year The Edge is proud to present our first ever High School Beta Club! These students have gone above and beyond in their schoolwork and wish to serve their community. Members include Camryn Edge, Ella Gilliand, Emma Gilliand, Cameron Lewis, Min Moore, Casey Pollock, Susannah Stockman, Anna Thomas,

ECTC Visits Maxwell AFB

Students from the Elmore County Technical Center recently visited Maxwell AFB to learn about the many civilian job opportunities available including those requiring certifications or experience gained through the CTE programs at ECTC.

Please

Mental Health First Aid at ECTC

First year Medical Science classes at the Elmore County Technical Center completed Teen Mental First Aid Certification. Through the class, students how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health problems among their

Future Teachers of Alabama Signing Day at ECTC

Teaching and Training students at the Elmore County Technical Center held a Future Teachers of Alabama (FTA) Signing Day. Through this ceremony, seniors declared their future career in education.

The Edge Celebrates Teacher Appreciation with Lunch Presented by Special Guest

Thank you to Air Force Sergeant Jermiah Charles and the recruiting team for our delicious Chick-Fil-A lunch during Teacher Appreciation Week! The Edge is proud to partner with you in the future endeavors of our Edge graduates.

Elmore County Schools

Summer Food Service Program in Elmore County

The Elmore County Board of Education Child Nutrition Program is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge. Acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Meals will be provided at all sites listed below showing the specified start and end times for meals.

Monday-Friday / May 30-August 4 8am to 9 am Breakfast & 11:30 am-12:30 pm Lunch

Elmore County High School

Holtville High School

Stanhope Elmore High School

Redland Middle School

Wetumpka Middle School

NOTE - ALL cafeterias will be closed:

Monday, June 19 (Juneteenth) and Monday-Tuesday, July 3-4

ECTC Students Obtain Automotive Service Excellence

A large group of Automotive Service Technology students have obtained the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)

Entry-Level Maintenance & Light Repair credential at the Elmore County Technical Center preparing them for entry-level positions with dealers and service shops.

Let’s Talk Algorithms! And How They Impact Our Kids

Let’s talk algorithms! They play a huge part in why your kids do what they do with their social media. They honestly affect anyone that is using social media. Algorithms are the invisible forces that power our digital lives. They are the mathematical equations determining what content we see on social media platforms and search engines. As a result, algorithms significantly impact our lives, including the lives of children growing up in a world where social media is ubiquitous.

The algorithms that power social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged. They do this by showing users content, most likely to keep them on the platform for as long as possible. Unfortunately, this means that the content that children see on social media may not always be the most accurate or reliable. Instead, it is content that has been optimized for engagement.

One of the ways that algorithms determine what content to show users is by tracking their behavior on the platform. This includes the posts they like, the accounts they follow, and the comments they leave. Algorithms use this information to create a profile of each user, which is then used to show them content likely to interest them.

While this may seem harmless, it can have negative consequences for children. For example, if a child spends a lot of time on social media looking at posts about beauty standards, the algorithm may show

them even more content related to this topic. This can create a feedback loop reinforcing negative body image and selfesteem issues.

Algorithms also have the power to create filter bubbles, environments where users only see content that confirms their beliefs. This can be especially harmful to children, who are still developing their worldview. If they are only exposed to content that supports their existing ideas, they may struggle to see other perspectives and become more closed-minded.

Another way algorithms can negatively impact children is by exposing them to harmful or inappropriate content. Social media platforms have come under fire in recent years for spreading harmful content, such as hate speech and misinformation. Children are particularly vulnerable to this type of content, as they may not have the critical thinking skills to discern what is true and what is not.

Algorithms can also contribute to spreading misinformation by promoting sensational and controversial content over more factual and accurate information. This can be especially harmful regarding issues like health and science, where accurate information is crucial for making informed decisions.

So, what can be done to mitigate the negative impacts of algorithms on children? One solution is for social media platforms to be more transparent about how their

algorithms work, allowing parents and educators to understand better the content children are being exposed to and take steps to mitigate any adverse effects.

Another solution is for parents to be more involved in their children’s social media use, including monitoring the content children are exposed to and engaging in conversations about the accuracy and reliability of online information.

Finally, educators need to teach critical thinking skills to children from a young age. Teach them how to evaluate sources of information and discern fact from fiction online.

In conclusion, algorithms are powerful tools that have the potential to shape the way children see the world. While they can have positive effects, such as exposing children to new ideas and perspectives, they can also have negative consequences, such as promoting harmful content and reinforcing negative beliefs. By being more transparent about how algorithms work, being more involved in children’s social media use, and teaching critical thinking skills, we can help mitigate the adverse effects of algorithms and create a safer and more positive online environment for children.

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.

Every dad needs reminders of how much he is loved and valued. While you don’t want to forgo the handmade cards and the offbeat kid ideas, these 10 ways to celebrate dad are sure to remind him of how much you care and give everyone some fun along the way.

Scavenger Hunt: This works for kids of all ages, plus it can be as involved as you want it to be. Come up with fun clues like “As a dad I could not ask for better, your next clue is where you find a letter,” to lead Dad around the house to find a Father’s Day prize. You can make up your own clues or download a set from ETSY. You’re sure to get lots of giggles from kids every step of the way.

To make this work with older kids, you can even take the hunt beyond the house to go to places around town. Give him a clue when he arrives at each location, eventually ending up at a favorite restaurant or event like a baseball game or concert.

Memory Lane: Even the most macho dads can appreciate a little trip down memory lane, especially for Father’s Day. Break out some old photos and create a short movie full of memories for him. This is the perfect project for tweens and teens to take charge of. For younger helpers, get photos printed and have them create a poster of memories.

It’s even great to get photos from before Dad was, well, a dad. Give him the chance to tell stories about who he was as a kid and before he embraced dad life.

Finish a Project: Every dad we know has some project they started that they never got around to finishing because dad life is busy. Work together to help him finish a project. Whether it’s finally building the shelves he needs or planting the garden he dreams of, working together will make the project even sweeter.

Challenge: This can be as crazy as you want it to be. Think outdoor races or a bake-off. Maybe a game of basketball or chess. Discover a fun challenge you can do for some friendly competition and time together.

Serve Him: This is not giving him a coupon for help in the yard or washing his car. This is about actually doing it. Surprise dad and wash the car inside and out. Pack his lunch for the next day. Take care of a job he always does so he can put his feet up and relax. Bonus points if you bring him some lemonade and cookies!

Explore a Favorite Spot: Does he love a certain hiking trail or beach? Maybe there’s a bookstore that he never has time to meander through or that hardware store that he loves. Even a coffee shop that makes his favorite latte. Find a place you know he enjoys and get him there.

You can have him go on his own if he likes some quiet time to himself or make it a family affair if that’s more his speed. No matter how you do it, just make sure it’s one of his favorite places.

Discover a New Place: It’s easy for parents to get so caught up in the day-to-day that they run out of time for exploring new places. Give Dad the gift of exploration.

You can go old school and road trip with no plan in mind, but it’s usually better to have a few ideas up your sleeve. Websites like Only In Your State can help you find everything from wacky restaurants, hikes you never knew about, abandoned places, and even road trip trails to take you on an adventure to the state’s best ice cream spots, breweries, and more.

Make a Summer Bucket List (Dad Edition!):

Even dad has a list of things he’d love to do. Sometimes it gets buried under work and baseball practice and goodnight stories. Father’s Day is the perfect time to dust it off!

Get a poster and some markers or create a shared family list on your phone for Dad’s Summer Bucket List. Ask him what he wants

to do before summer is over. And it can’t be all work and house things. Make sure he has fun little outings like going to his favorite ice cream shop and some bigger ideas like boogie boarding at the state beach. Even reading through a favorite book or seeing a movie counts! The only requirement: make time for the things on the list. Putting them on the calendar is the key to making them happen.

Favorite Foods: From sunup to sundown, fill the day with Dad’s favorite foods. Does he love a Caffè Americano and donuts? Maybe a protein shake from that place across town? How about burgers and fries? Add a milkshake? You got it!

Whatever it is, the day isn’t about what the kids like (sorry kids!).It’s a chance for Dad to eat the things he loves and enjoy every bite. He doesn’t even have to share!

More Than a Day: The fun doesn’t have to last for just one day. Make it an overnight or a weekend. Plan a family vacation that you know he’d love. It doesn’t need to be far or expensive (although that resort he’s dreamed about isn’t a terrible idea!). Think about things he loves and start there.

Does he love the outdoors? Maybe a campout is a perfect idea (even in the backyard!). Is he a museum guy? Plan an overnight to go to an art installation or even a fun place like the Spy Museum. Whatever dad likes, you can find a place he will enjoy. And the best part? The time you’ll have together!

After five years as a teacher, Rebecca Hastings began working from home in 2015 as a writer and speaker. Since then she has authored three books, written hundreds of articles, and consulted with dozens of clients.

by Kimberley Carter Spivey

Summer is in full swing! The warmer weather has arrived, which means long summer days and nights outside doing fun activities, leaving less time for parents to cook. We’re sharing a favorite summertime dinner that is quick and hassle-free. A delicious meal that the entire family will enjoy. Yes, even the kiddos!

Local mom Susanne McGaughey shares a dish that’s been a staple in her household for years. Susanne is a homemaker as well as a homeschooling mom. She’s married to Clifford Holmes McGaughey III (better known as Tres). Tres retired from the Air Force after 20 years and is now a Network Engineer.

Susanne and Tres have been married for 30 years and have known each other since they were four and five years old. They have seven children: Josiah (28), Kaitlin (26), Caleb (25), Erin (22), Daniel (17), Shannon (17), and Jonas (15). Their children were homeschooled from ages two to 18.

Susanne shares, “I cannot tell you how many recipes and creations I’ve made in our kitchen over the years. I love it when I am away from the house or out of town, and one of the kids calls to ask me a food-related question or what to do for some recipe. It makes me smile to know they are cooking or creating in the kitchen.”

Susanne’s mom and grandmother were great cooks, so she was inspired at a young age to get in the kitchen, get her hands dirty, and help make something good to eat.

“I was probably four years old when I started cooking. When I was at my grandmother’s house, if she wasn’t in her kitchen, she would be in her garden or

greenhouse. Things she grew would make their way from the garden to the kitchen. I was always beside her, watching her mix or cut up to prepare some of my favorite dishes.”

For Susanne, food is comfort, and it inspires her even now to see the faces of her family when they have enjoyed a good meal or a new recipe. If the food provides comfort and her family or friends are satisfied with a good meal, the fellowship after the meal is much sweeter.

Susanne also loves her Dutch overstock pot. She has a pot of bone broth on rotation once a week. She picks fresh herbs from her garden to use in flavoring the broth. Often she serves an all-veggie meal. Not that they don’t like protein, but sometimes it is nice to have vegetables cooked, steamed, or roasted. She usually makes a pan of her grandmother’s cornbread to go with the veggies, using her cast iron skillet. Susanne also makes a lot of cookies at her house and has two Pampered Chef baking stones she loves to use.

She has several quick and easy crockpot and instant pot meals that her family loves. As their family has grown and their children have gotten older, the number of activities everyone is involved in has grown, too. “It is so nice to throw the ingredients in the crockpot, walk away, and in several hours return to an incredible dish.”

One crock pot recipe she adores is Angel Chicken, which she happily shares with us this month!

Angel Chicken

Ingredients:

1 lb. chicken breast or tenderloin (You can use frozen, too)

1/2 container chive & onion cream cheese

7oz. package of Italian seasoning mix

1 can golden mushroom soup

1/4 cup butter

1/2 cup sherry

Directions: Combine all ingredients in the crockpot. Cook on the lowest heat for 5 hours. Serve over angel hair pasta or white rice.

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.

As a military spouse, I have moved a handful of times with and without kids.

In the last year and a half alone, we have relocated three different times... with kids.

It is not always easy and sometimes it doesn’t go as smoothly as we’d like, but it is possible to do while maintaining a tiny bit of your sanity.

I know you might be thinking that moving across the country or to a new neighborhood can seem stressful and make you crazy, but it really doesn’t have to be that way. It’s possible to make moving with your kids stress-free and a fun family memory for you. I promise! What I share won’t take a lot of time to do and anyone can use these tips to help them have a calm move.

Here are 7 things that have helped us when we’ve had to move with kids:

1) Lists Are Your Friend. Maybe I’m just a “list-person” but lists keep me sane and organized. Even if you don’t consider yourself to particularly rely on lists in your daily life, moving with children in tow may just be the perfect time to start!

Set aside a notebook, folder, or even a binder for your moving prep. In it, you can keep your lists, paperwork, important documents, and anything else you may need in one spot.

Lists help me sort out the overwhelm and break things down into what I have to do right now, what can wait, or what I will have to do in the future. I make lists for each car if we’re driving, the plane if we’re flying, snack lists, packing lists for each person or pet, and to-do lists.Things to grab or do the morning of is another helpful one!

Repeat after me: “To combat extra frazzled moving-mom-brain, lists are your friend.”

2) Join Facebook Groups Before Getting to the Area. Yes, Facebook groups can be a lot, but using it as a research tool when you’re moving is one of the most beneficial things I’ve learned after relocating with the military so many times.

There is basically a Facebook group for everything these days, but some of the

more beneficial ones I’ve joined were local town or mom groups. These are awesome for anything from pediatrician recommendations to which park is in the safest area or places to avoid for various reasons. Many areas have stroller and fitness groups or organize community playdates and other activities. I’ve also met some of my best mom-friends because of these groups!

3) Even Though You Can’t Prepare for Everything... Try to Prepare for Everything. If you’re driving long distances, don’t forget to have some sort of “car sick” or cleanup bag – Lysol wipes, a roll of paper towels, plenty of grocery bags.

If your baby relies on a sound machine to sleep, be sure to have a battery backup, plus some extra batteries. Extra clothes for everyone. Lots of sanitizer for hotels and gas station potty breaks, and more diapers than you could ever need.

On an eight or fifteen-hour trip where anything can happen, it doesn’t hurt to plan for anything that can happen! Or at least try to. We also invested in the Velcro pockets that hang on the back of the front seats. They are perfect for sticking spare diapers, wipes, a change of clothing, a burp cloth/ rag, small toys or teethers, and anything else you may or may not need!

4) The Magic Hotel/First Night Bag. This will help eliminate shuffling through your trunk and other bags when you’re exhausted after driving. We’ve driven for 12, 16, and even 18 hours while moving across a few states. With two littles, two cars, and pets, it made sense to stop for the night and break up the drive into two days. This was overwhelming because it added another challenge with kiddos: a hotel stay.

I don’t know about your kids, but mine require certain things when they sleep, whether it’s in a house or hotel -- a sound machine, sleep sack, overnight pull-ups, etc. Rather than tearing through each person’s individual bag in the hotel parking lot at 7 p.m. or lugging multiple bags into the hotel for just one night, we pack one bag with everything.

We use zipper packing cubes for each person, and inside each cube, we have a pair of pajamas (and often a spare), a change or two of clothing, socks, toothbrushes, etc. Anything that person needs for one night.

This concept can also be applied to a First Night Bag if you’re not stopping at a hotel! Anything anyone will need to initially survive and be somewhat comfortable the first night at your new home. With the first night bag or box at your house, you could also include things like toilet paper, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.

5) Special Toys and New Toys. We are not an “excessive-toy” family and tend to lean more toward minimalism, but this is where I have a bit of grace. In the long run, it saves my sanity and, while moving, that is so very important.

When driving long distances, we usually grab a few new toys. Sometimes it’s simple things like a small fidget-type toy or activity, sometimes it’s a few cheap toys for the baby from the dollar store that I can toss back while driving when he starts freaking out. On our last move, we got our almost-four-year-old a play toolset so she could “help” my husband put our furniture together at our new home. It’s one of my favorite memories, seeing them sitting on the floor together with all the parts. My husband read the instructions while she sat patiently until he would ask her to use her plastic hammer while wearing her pretend safety goggles.

While on the topic of toys, think carefully about what you’re giving them in the car. Stickers are okay for a four-year-old, but I wouldn’t want to peel them off my car windows from my two-year-old. For littles, use pacifier clips for smaller teethers so they don’t throw them two minutes into the trip. Does it make a mess? Is it safe? Can they swallow, break it (so it becomes sharp), or otherwise hurt themselves with it?

Obviously, we cannot control everything that happens, but I’m going to opt to give my kid Water Wow pens instead of real markers on a twelve-hour road trip. Even if they’re washable. For most, this is probably a bit of a “pick your battles” scenario.

6) Make the Kids Feel Comfortable as Soon as Possible. When we moved into our last house, my husband went to my daughter’s room and told her to stand in her doorway. He then talked loudly down the hall to show her we could easily hear her if she needed anything from her room (especially at night).

Since our things were on a moving truck and didn’t come until the following week or so, we made sure to have our kids’ special sheets/bedding with us in the car. The very first thing we did was set up their bed/space. Even though they were on air mattresses and makeshift bedding the first night, we wanted it to be as familiar and comfortable as possible for them to help with the adjustment.

We treated our oldest like one of the adults, showing her around the house and letting her know where things would be going, making as many connections from our last house as possible.

7) Snacks, Screens, and a Whole Lot of Grace. While we try to limit screens normally, we have a lot of grace during

traveling and getting into a new residence. Sometimes the kids need to be out of the way while I’m unpacking breakables or when there are a lot of people in and out of the house. One of my best sanity-saving tips is giving my daughter movie time while I listen to my own podcast upfront while driving, and the youngest naps. Be intentional when possible. Plan your screens and use them as a tool and don’t show your cards right away. Save screens for when you need them!

Rather than a screen for littles, we usually get a new brightly colored music or light-up toy. Super annoying, but does the job of keeping their attention.

Snacks and more snacks while driving, of course. New or special snacks are great too. For older kiddos, the big lollipops that last forever are a special reward.

Overall, moving is stressful for both parents and kids. Try to do things that make it special and memorable, but also give yourself and your kids tons of flexibility and forgiveness. The transition phase isn’t forever and you’ll find your groove soon enough!

Kailyn is a wife and mama to two wild, blond babes, currently living where the military sends us. With an Early Childhood Education and Psychology degree, she is a Kindergarten teacher-turned-mama turnedfreelance writer.

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.

Where to Eat

Burger Fi

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7413 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117

Committed to serving the best burger experience. We also serve shakes, fries, hot dogs and more. (334) 356.8645 burgerfi.com

Baumhower’s Victory Grille

2465 Eastern Blvd. and Montgomery, AL 36117 Sports pub with wings. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with purchase of $10 adult entrée and is limited to 1 child per adult. (334) 271.1831 baumhowers.com

Beef O’ Brady’s 2776 Legends Pkwy. Prattville, AL 36066

Irish type pub. One Free kids meal for kids under 12 with the purchase of one regular priced adult meal on Monday from 4-8 p.m. Dine in-only. (334) 290.9962 beefobradys.com

Bruster’s Ice Cream

All locations River Region, AL

Large selection of ice cream, cakes and pies. Kids under 40? get a free baby cone. brusters.com

Capitol Oyster Bar

617 Shady Street Montgomery, AL 36104

We offer the best seafood and view in town. Come visit us and enjoy our live entertainment. (334) 239.8958 capitoloysterbar.com

Cava

2960 C Zelda Rd Montgomery, AL 36106

Mediterranean culinary brand with a healthy fastcasual restaurant experience featuring customizable salads, pitas, juices, dressings, & dips. (334) 398.6652 cava.com

Chappy’s Deli

River Region Montgomery, AL

We have several locations in Montgomery and Prattville. Large selection of foods from burgers off the grill, signature sandwiches or salads. Free

meals for children under 6 daily. Kids 6-12 eat for only $2.50. Free mini ice cream after meal. (334) 279.1226 chappysdeli.com

Chicken Salad Chik

All locations River Region, AL

Delicious selection of chicken salad. Offers free meals for kids 10 and under on Tuesdays. chickensaladchik.com

Chris’s Hotdogs

138 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104

Old style mom & pop diner that is known for its chili cheese dogs. (334) 265.6850 chrishotdogs.com

CiCi’s Pizza

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

City Grill

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

Cuco’s

11123 Chantilly Pkwy. Pike Road, AL 36064

Mexican style café. Kids eat free on Tuesday. (334) 271.3528 cucosmexicancafe.com

Dreamland BBQ

7900 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116

Try us for our famous BBQ and sauce. We also offer locally brewed craft beer from the Rail Yard. Free meals for kids on Sundays with the purchase of an adult entrée.

(334) 273.7427 dreamlandbbq.com

El Patron Mexican Grill

2152 Cobbs Ford Prattville, AL 36066

Mexican Grill. Kids eat free with paying on adult on Mondays.

(334) 285.2120

Fazoli’s

7123 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

Italian style food. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with paying adult.

(334) 239.9109 fazolis.com

Gazebo Tea Room

414 Perry Hill Rd Montgomery, AL 36109

Piano music plus sandwiches and tea equal a calming and peaceful lunchtime experience.

(334) 277.1839

Green Papaya

409 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36109

Authentic Lao-Thai cuisine and experience. (334) 395.7654 greenpapayacuisine.com

Jalapeno’s in the Alley

130 Commerce St Montgomery, AL 36104

Mexican menu. Child eats free on Monday’s with the purchase of adult meal. (334) 262.4939

Jason’s Delli

1520 Eastern Blvd Montgomery, AL 36117

Delicious sandwiches, crisp salads, and more quick, quality meals made with fresh ingredients and no artificial trans fats, MSG, high-fructose corn syrup, or artificial colors and dyes!

(334) 409-9890 jasonsdeli.com

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

Logan’s Roadhouse

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

Martin’s

1796 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Longtime local family restaurant with southern comfort food. Known for our fried chicken.

(334) 265.1767 Facebook: Martins Restaurant

McAlister’s Deli

2747 Legends Pkwy. Prattville, AL 36066

Known for its sandwiches, baked potatoes and tea. Kids eat everyday for $.99 (334) 285.3334 mcalistersdeli.com

Mellow Mushroom Prattville

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

Midtown Pizza

Montgomery and Prattville

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

Mr. Gus’ Ristorante’

6268 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

Authentic Italian and Greek food. We serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. (334) 593.9388 Facebook: Mr. Gus’ Ristorante

Nancy’s Italian Ice

7976 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116

16 flavors of Italian ice served everyday. We also have cupcakes and gelato. (334) 356.1403 nancysice.com

O’Charleys

2301 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville, AL 36066

One free kid’s meal when you purchase one adult entree, all day every day. Your kids need to be 10 or younger to qualify for the promo. (334) 285.2990 ocharleys.com

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

Pies & Pints

7216 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117

Awesome food, craft beer, and great service.

(334) 694.9161 piesandpints.net

Pizza Perfect

428 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36109

Thin crust pizzas cooked to order and buffet. Tuesdays after 5 p.m. kids eat free from buffet with adult buffet purchase.

Facebook: Pizza Perfect Montgomery

Red Robin

7005 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

American style grub. Kids eat for $1.99 with the purchase of an adult entrée on Thursdays.

(334) 396.1078 redrobin.com

Saza’s 130 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Serious Italian food in a hip atmosphere. Walking in awakens your taste buds.

(334) 495.7292 sazapizza.com

Seafood Bistro

1651 Perryhill Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Cajun seafood at its best and is sure to delight your senses.

(334) 279.7500 theseafoodbistro.com

Shashy’s Fine Foods

1700 Mulberry Street Montgomery, AL 36106

Home-style southern food + cakes & pastries.

(334) 263.7341 shashysbakery.com

Shoney’s 4700 US 231 Wetumpka, AL 36092

All American diner style menu. Kids under 4 eat free every day with paying adult.

(334) 567.3811 shoneys.com

Sinclair’s East

7847 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116

Steaks, fish, salads, pasta or southern styled meals served. 5 Kid’s meals to choose from.

(334) 271.7654 sinclairsrestaurants.com

Sol Restaurante

3962 Atlanta Highway and 9539 Vaughn Road Montgomery and Pike Road, AL 36109

Authentic Mexican dishes served in a relaxing atmosphere.

(334) 593.8250 solrestaurante.getbento.com

Sweetcreek Farm Market & Café

85 Meriwether Road Pike Road, AL 36064

Farm to table eatery with local fresh produce and signature sandwiches. Kids eat free in the café on Tuesdays with a purchase of an entree.

(334) 280.3276 Facebook: SweetCreek Farm Market

Texas Roadhouse

7525 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

American fare with a southwestern spin. Kids eat for $2.99 with purchase of adult entrée after 4 p.m. on Thursday’s.

(334) 396.7774 texasroadhouse.com

The Juicy Crab

6814 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117

Wide variety of seafood dishes.

(334) 416.8266 thejuicycrab.com

The Little Donkey

7720 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

Farm to table style Mexican food.

(334) 625.1949 thelittledonkey.com

The Wharf Casual Seafood

6945 Eastchase Loop and 3954 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

Large selection of seafood entrees. Kids choose a free meal from the kids menu with the purchase of an adult entrée on Thursday’s.

wharfcasualseafood.com

Tipping Point

5015 Hampstead High St Montgomery, AL 36116

A local hangout where you can enjoy food, drinks and fun with the whole family. Garden area for your kids and dogs to play in while you enjoy the patio. Craft beer and good eats.

(334) 260.9110 tippingpointhampstead.com

Tomatino’s Pizza and Bake Shop

503 Cloverdale Rd Montgomery, AL 36106

Quaint locale offering traditional pizzas, salads, housemade breads & calzones, plus beer & wine. (334) 264-4241 tomatinos.com

Wishbone Café

7028 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

A true foodie’s paradise serving creole cuisine. (334) 244.7270 wishbone-café.com

Where to Grow

Montgomery Childcare

Avalon Montessori

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395 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery , AL 36117

At Avalon Montessori School, we are committed to nurturing the individual gifts of each young child. We ai?m to provide an environment that promotes diversity, self-discovery, and a love of learning while empowering all students to reach their greatest potential.

(334) 725.6797 avalonmontessori.com

Macon East

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15396 Vaughn Road Cecil , AL 36013

Each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, emotional and intellectual needs. (334) 277.6566 maconeast.net

Montessori at Hampstead

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5251 Hampstead High Street, Suite #111 Montgomery, AL 36116

We offer a structured yet individual, child-driven approach to education based on Montessori method. (334) 356-1969 MSHMontgomery.org

Facebook: facebook.com/MontessoriatHampstead

Providence Presbyterian Church Children’s Center

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2130 Bell Road Montgomery, AL 36117

Connecting Children’s Hearts and Minds to Jesus.

(334) 274.1018 memorialpres.net

The Learning Tree Child Development Center

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4120 Carmichael Road and 3335 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Your Children deserve the best so why not give it to them. We pride ourselves in having the best childcare program for ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

(334) 271.4733 and (334) 284.5560

Aldersgate Weekday Children’s Ministry

6610 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116

Our mission is to provide quality childcare and education in a Christian environment that provides opportunities for spiritual, education, emotional and physical development.

(334) 277.0880 aldersgateumc.org

Eastmont Christian Kindergarten

4505 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36109

Our dedicated staff is eager to serve your family by providing a loving environment for your child while challenging them academically and nurturing them spiritually. We offer K3, K4, and K5 classes Monday through Friday mornings from 8:30am to 11:30am.

(334) 239.8555 eastmont.org

Evangel Christian Preschool

3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106

We provide a safe and loving environment for children ages 6 weeks to 3 years.

(334) 273.0730 ecalions.org

First United Methodist Church Early Childhood Development Center

2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106

We partner with families to help children grow physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually for children 6 weeks to 5 years.

(334) 834.8964 fumcmontgomery.org

Frazer Christian Preschool

6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

Our program that provides students with numerous opportunities to develop strong social, academic and spiritual foundations.

(334) 495.6370 frazer.church

Gracepointe Child Development Center

1565 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery, AL 36117

We run an intentional play based center. Our teachers use developmentally appropriate practice skills to teach your child from ages 6 weeks to 5 years.

(205) 799.7570 grace-pointe.com

Heritage Child Development Center

1849 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36016

Our goal is to lead people into a life changing relationship with Jesus Christ in Montgomery and beyond by providing excellent early childhood education that helps preschoolers grow spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally.

(334) 279.0643 heritagecdc.net

Hooper Academy Early Learning Center

380 Fischer Road Hope Hull, AL 36043

Our center provides structured schedules which promote each child’s physical, emotional, intellectual, language, and motor skills development.

(334) 288.2770 hooperacademy.org

Lakeview Child Development Center

9225 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117

Providing a safe, loving, Christian environment where children are happy and parents entrust their children to our care with confidence. Ages: 6 weeks to 4 years, Monday-Friday

(334) 396.3944 lakeviewbaptistchurch.cc/daycare_info

Montessori @ Mulberry

2034 Clubview Street Montgomery, AL 36106

Montessori at Mulberry serves children 18 months to 6 years of age. Children learn at their own pace and with a variety of hands on materials geared specifically for them.

(334) 265.7733 montessoriatmulberry.com

St. James Christian Preschool

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

(334) 481.0722 sjlife.com

Taylor Road Baptist Mother’s Day Out Program

1685 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117

Providing a safe, nurturing environment for children since 1991.

(334) 271.3363 taylorroad.org

Vaughn Park Church of Christ Mother’s Day Out

3800 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Mother’s Day Out at Vaughn Park is a half-day program full of fun and learning. We accept babies at 6 weeks through 4 years old.

(334) 272.2665 vaughnpark.com

Vaughn Road Preschool

8790 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117

To nurture and educate the whole child in a loving, Christian environment. We accept children 6 weeks to preschool age.

(334) 277.4815

Prattville-Millbrook Childcare

First Baptist Preschool & Kindergarten

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138 South Washington St Prattville, AL 36104

We believe it’s important to plant seeds of faith early in a child’s life. Our preschool ministry is a place children can be themselves and learn more about the One who created and deeply loves them.

(334) 361.9481 fbcprattville.org

First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten

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211 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067

Our desire is to help your child grow academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually while he or she is here with us throughout the school year.

(334) 365.6387 fpkprattville.com

The Learning Tree Child Development Center

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1816 Glynnwood Drive Prattville, AL 36066

Your Children deserve the best so why not give it to them. We pride ourselves in having the best childcare program for ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

(334) 365.1451

Wetumpka Childcare

First Baptist Child Development Center

205 W. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

Our goal is to provide a well-rounded ministry of nurturing for your child, as well as a system of encouragement and support for parents and grandparents.

(334) 567.3319 fbc/wetumpka.org

First Steps Mother’s Day Out and Preschool

1266 Dozier Road Wetumpka, AL 36093

We offer a Christ centered environment, small classes with age appropriate curriculum, designed to foster a love of learning and prepare your child for academic success in the years to come.

(334) 221.5681 Facebook: First Steps RBC

Wetumpka Preschool and Child Development

502 N. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

Our goal for preschool is to foster the development of a healthy self-image which will assist the child to regard themselves as people who are important, good friends of classmates.

(334) 567.4689 gatewaypreschool.weebly.com

Hospitals

Baptist Medical Center East

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400 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117

(334) 277.8330 baptistfirst.org

Baptist Medical Center South

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

Jackson Hospital

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1725 Pine Street Montgomery, AL 36106 (334) 293.8000 jackson.org

VA Medical Center

215 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36109 (334) 272.4670 centralalabama.va.gov

Prattville Baptist Hospital

124 S. Memorial Drive Prattville, AL 36067 (334) 365.0651 baptistfirst.org

Elmore Community Hospital

500 Hospital Drive Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567.4311 ivycreekhealth.com

Mom Groups

Century Strong Moms

11 Chapel Hill Street Pike Road, AL 36064

Dedicated in helping moms in the community be STRONG moms. Please email lifegroups@ century.church

Mom2Mom

Frazer Church Montgomery, AL 36117

Playgroup to connect mother of newborn to 5 years old. Email mom2mom@frazerumc.org frazer.church

Montgomery Multiples

Offers support to mothers of twins, triplet and more. They offer moms night out once a month. sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Classes for parent/child partners. (334) 240.4333 mmfa.org

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)

First Baptist Church, 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Support group for moms of preschoolers. Meet twice a month with motivational speakers, conversations with other moms and activities. Childcare provided. (334) 241.5165 montgomeryfbc.org/mops

OBGYNs

OB-GYN Associates

ad on page 18 and 54 495 Taylor Road, Montgomery and 630 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville For over 20 years, our medical practice has provided health care for women of all ages in Montgomery and the surrounding areas. At OB/GYN Associates of Montgomery we provide up-to-date comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic services in high risk and normal risk pregnancy, infertility, incontinence, pelvic prolapse, menopause, abnormal pap smears, menstrual problems, birth control, endometriosis, pelvic pain, and weight loss. Our talented and personable doctors and staff offer individualized care at three practice locations. We are equipped with some of the latest technology to better and more efficiently serve you.

(334) 279.9333 obgynmontgomery.com

Central Alabama Ob-gyn Associates

2024 Chestnut Street Montgomery , AL 36106

Specializing in gynecology and obstetrics, female infertility and surgery.

(334) 265.3543

Montgomery Women’s Health Associates

470 Taylor Road, Ste 300 Montgomery, AL 36117

Specializing in routine and high risk prenatal care, including non-invasive prenatal testing. Ultrasounds, nonstress testing and biophysical testing done in office.

(334) 281.1191 montgomerywomenshealth.com

Physicians for Women

287 Mitylene Park Drive, Montgomery and 645 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville

Specializing in gynecology and obstetrics, female infertility and surgery.

(334) 290.4200 and (334) 491.4200 mypfw.com

Pediatric Dentists & Orthodontists

Chapman Orthodontics

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1550 E. Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36106

Father-and-son orthodontic team that provides comfortable and efficient orthodontic treatment to families throughout the Montgomery, Prattville, and Greenville communities.

(334) 272.9447 chapmanortho.com

Dentistry for Children

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7047 Halcyon Summit Drive, Montgomery and 68 Village Loop, Wetumpka

We provide comprehensive dental care to infants, children, adolescents and special needs patients. (334) 277.6830 chew-chewtrain.com

Just for Grins Orthodontist

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7051 Halcyon Summit Drive, Montgomery

68 Village Loop, Wetumpka

207 Ashton Plaza, Millbrook

We offer a wide array of orthodontic treatment options to get you or your child a smile to be proud of. (334) 270.1044 justforgrinsortho.com

Kingry Orthodontics

8101 Seaton Place, Montgomery 31 Bridge Street, Pike Road

We offer services for Invisalign, early treatment, adult treatment, incognito and headache relief. (334) 272.4900 kingryorthodontics.com

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

2600 Bell Rd, Montgomery; 460 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville; 9547 Vaughn Road, Pike Road

Our mission is to provide comprehensive dental and orthodontic treatment and education for children and adolescents in a friendly atmosphere that encourages children to enjoy their dental experiences.

(334) 277.6690 smilesfromus.com

Pediatricians

Carlile Pediatric

78 Cambridge Court Wetumpka, AL 36093

Provide complete and personal healthcare for infants, children and adolescents.

(334) 567.6915 carlilepediatrics.com

Partners in Pediatrics

8160 Seaton Place Montgomery, AL 36116

136 E. Main Street Prattville, AL 36066

Complete healthcare for pediatric and adolescents. On call service for each night and on weekends. (334) 272.1799 mykidsdr.com

Pediatric Healthcare

4700 Woodmere Blvd. Montgomery , AL 36106

Provide quality care for infants, children and adolescents and to assist parents in the endeavor in

rearing their children to reach their optimal physical, emotional, and spiritual development. (334) 273.9700 pedhealthcare.com

Professional Pediatrics

4154 Carmichael Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. Our office consists of 3 doctors and accepting new patients.

(334) 271.5959 professionalpediatrics.com

Where to Learn

Libraries

Autauga-Prattville Public Library

254 Doster Street Prattville , AL 36067 (334) 365.3396 appl.info

Coliseum Boulevard Branch Library 840 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36109 (334) 271.7005 mccpl.lib.al.us

E.L. Lowder Regional Branch Library

2590 Bell Road Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 625.5717 mccpl.lib.al.us

Hampstead Library

5251 Long Acre Street Montgomery, AL 36116 (334)244.5770 mccpl.lib.al.us

Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library

245 High Street Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 625.4999 mccpl.lib.al.us

Millbrook Public Library

3650 Grandview Road Millbrook, AL 36054 (334) 285.6688 cityofmillbrook.org

Pike Road Branch Library

9585 Vaughn Road Pike Road, AL 36064 (334) 244.8679 mccpl.lib.al.us

Wetumpka Public Library

212 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567.5147 wetumpkalibrary.com

Museums

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

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1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117

Come and view the exhibitions and collection, take an art class, participate in our many events or visit the interactive kids room.

(334) 625.4333 mmfa.org

Alabama Cattleman’s MOOseum

201 S. Bainbridge Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Hands on agricultural education center for children. They can dress up as cowboys and cowgirls.

(334) 265.1867 bamabeef.org

Dexter Parsonage Museum

309 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Take a tour of the home where Martin Luther King and his family lived during the Civil Rights Movement. (334) 261.3270 dexterkingmemorial.com

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum

919 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106

This museum is dedicated to the lives of the Fitzgerald’s during their stay in Montgomery.

(334) 264.4222 thefitzgeraldmuseum.org

Freedom Rides Museum

210 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Come see how 21 people changed history using non-violent protest methods. (334) 414.8647 freedomridesmuseum.org

Hank Williams Museum

118 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Museum dedicated in the preservation the country star’s memorabilia, instruments and more. (334) 262.3600 thehankwilliamsmuseum.net

Legacy Museum

115 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Displays the history of racism and hatred in America. (334) 386.9100 museumandmemorial.eji.org

Mann Wildlife Learning Museum

325 Vandiver Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110

Visit and learn about North American wildlife in a realistic setting of their natural habitat. Located at The Montgomery Zoo.

(334) 240.4900 mannmuseum.com

Rosa Parks Library and Museum

208 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Memorial to the life Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

(800) 414.4756 troy.edu

Private Schools

Alabama Christian Academy

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4700 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, AL 36109

The mission of Alabama Christian Academy is to glorify God by providing a quality, Christ-centered education which challenges students and teachers to maximize their potential so that graduates are prepared to further their education while becoming productive Christian citizens.

(334) 277.1985 alabamachristian.org

Avalon Montessori

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395 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery , AL 36117

At Avalon Montessori School, we are committed to nurturing the individual gifts of each young child. We aim to provide an environment that promotes diversity, self-discovery, and a love of learning while empowering all students to reach their greatest potential.

(334) 725.6797 avalonmontessori.com

Evangel Christian Academy

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3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Evangel Christian Academy is dedicated to helping prepare our children academically, spiritually, emotionally; to be all that God wants them to be.

(334) 272.3882 ecalions.org

Macon East Academy

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15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, AL 36013

A college preparatory school, committed to providing students with a safe, nurturing environment that promotes academic achievement, patriotism, and belief in God through Christian values.

(334) 277.6566 maconeast.net

Montessori Hampstead

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5251 Hampstead High Street, Suite #111

Montgomery, AL 36116

We offer a structured yet individual, child-driven approach to education based on Montessori method.

(334) 356-1969 MSHMontgomery.org

Facebook: facebook.com/MontessoriatHampstead

Montgomery Catholic ad on page 21, 29

Saint Bede Campus, 3850 Atlanta Hwy.

Holy Spirit Campus, 8580 Vaughn Road

Middle & High School, 5350 Vaughn Road

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

(334) 272.7221 montgomerycatholic.org

Resurrection Catholic ad on page 32

2850 Forbes Drive Montgomery, AL 36110

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

(334) 263.4221 rcmsouth.org

River Region Academy

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4240 Lomac Street Montgomery, AL 36106

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

(334) 239.0874 sylvanlearning.com

Saint James School

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6010 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116

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

(334) 277.8033 stjweb.org

The Montgomery Academy

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Upper School, 3240 Vaughn Road; Lower School, 1550 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106

The Montgomery Academy (MA) is a K–12, co-ed, nonsectarian day school serving the River Region community since 1959. Our mission is to develop leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence.

(334) 273.7170 montgomeryacademy.org

Trinity Presbyterian School

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1700 East Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36106

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

(334) 213.2100 trinitywildcats.com

Churchill Academy

395 Ray Thorington Road (moving to new location, TBA) Montgomery, AL 36117

The only comprehensive school program in Montgomery specializing in educating bright children with unique learning differences.

Testing Requirements: Previous diagnosis of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder or other, and average to above average intellectual functioning, however Churchill will also conduct a testing evaluation to assist in placement.

(334) 270.4225 churchillacademy.net

Cornerstone Christian Academy

125 Calhoun Road Montgomery, AL 36109

Cornerstone Christian Academy’s ultimate objective is to glorify God by preparing students spiritually and intellectually for life-long service in His kingdom.

(334) 356.7788 ccamontgomery.org

Eastwood Christian Academy

1701 East Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36123

At Eastwood, we desire to cultivate in each student a lifelong love of learning, and a pursuit of academic and moral excellence, for the purpose of bringing glory to God alone.

(334) 272.8195 eastwoodschool.org

Hooper Academy

380 Fischer Road Hope Hull, AL 36043

Our mission is to provide a balanced and quality curriculum, which allows each student the opportunity to achieve full potential and maximize mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual growth.

(334) 288.5980 hooperacademy.org

LEAD Academy

2897 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery , AL 36116

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

(334) 230.7756 leadacademyal.org

Montessori @ Mulberry

2034 Clubview Street Montgomery, AL 36106

Each child is encouraged to reach his/her full potential in all areas of life. The specific needs of individual children are met at each developmental level. Our curriculum, which is challenging, interdisciplinary and real world related, provides a strong academic bridge to elementary school.

(334) 265.7733 montessoriatmulberry.com

Montgomery Christian School

3265 McGehee Road, Montgomery, AL

To provide an academically challenging Christian education to children in inner city Montgomery. Kindergarten K -5th. Curriculum: Singapore, Handwriting Without Tears, Purposeful Design, ABEKA, Houghton Mifflin and Positive Action for Christ.

(334) 386.1749 www.montgomerychristianschool.org

Success Unlimited

2328 Fairlane Drive and 4500 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116

Montgomery’s foremost institution dedicated to individualized education. SUA provides a safe and loving environment where students feel accepted and are challenged by educational excellence, instilled with loyalty to our country, and developed through spiritual growth.

(334) 213.0803 suacademy.com

Valiant Cross

301 Dexter Avenue (located inside of River City Church) Montgomery, AL 36104

Our mission, our purpose is to help raise young men up to be supernatural. Men who will learn from their youth, to let go of self, to let the Holy Spirit raise them to new heights. Courageous men, righteous men, committed men, loving men who will rise up to lead, to serve, to inspire. We will provide the armor to help them rise above. To rise above with Honor, with Discipline, with Integrity, with Excellence with Love.

(334) 694.9200 Valiantcross.org

Public Schools

Autauga County Public Schools

Learning today, Leading tomorrow. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

(334) 365.5706 acboe.net

Elmore County Public Schools

Every student Empowered! Every student Succeeds! Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

(334) 567.1200 elmoreco.com

Montgomery Public Schools

Our mission is to engage, educate and inspire our students to succeed in college, career and beyond. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

(334) 223.6700 mps.k12.al.us

Pike Road Public School

Think, Innovate, Create the Pike Road way. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

(334) 420.5301 pikeroadschools.org

Tutors

Better Than Average

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2820 Fairlane Dr, Suite A3 Montgomery, AL 36116

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 achievements. In-person and virtual.

(334) 802.1315 www.betterthanaverage.online

Mathnasium

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3453 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116

We are the authority in math education. Changing lives through Math.

(334) 356.1570 mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery

Sylvan Learning Center

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4240 Lomac Street Montgomery , AL 36106

Offering tutoring in Study Skills, Math, ACT/SAT Prep, Writing, Reading and Homework help..

(334) 262.0043 sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

The Learning Tree

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Montgomery, AL

Growing Independence Behavioral Services for children with Autism. Applied Behavior Analysis assessment and treatment for preschool and schoolaged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. (334) 425.6418 learning-tree.org

Read & Write Learning Center

3240 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Our services include multisensory instruction in reading, math, grammar and writing and comprehension. (334) 328.2134 readwritelearningcenter.com

Success Unlimited

2328 Fairlane Drive Montgomery, AL 36116

Tutoring available for any subject by certified teachers. (334) 213.0803 suacademy.com

Sylvan Learning of Prattville

206 Fairview Avenue Prattville, AL 36066

Providing support in study skill and homework help, math, writing, reading, STEM & Robotics sessions and ACT/SAT Prep.

(334) 212.8448 sylvanlearning.com

Where to Play

Annual EventsJuly/September

Broadway Under the Stars

Blount Cultural Park Montgomery, AL 36117

A night filled with music from some of your Broadway favorites. Come prepared with blankets, chairs, coolers and food for this free concert.

(334) 240.4004 montgomerysymphony.org

Russell Lands Fourth of July Blast

Lake Martin Amphitheatre Eclectic, AL 36024

Russell Lands puts on a show annually at Lake Martin. Fun filled night with concerts and huge firework display. Beautiful if viewed from the lake or amphitheater.

(256) 397. 1019 russelllandsonlakemartin.com

Wetumpka River and Blues Festival Gold Star Park Wetumpka, AL 36092

Annual free event usually held in July features arts, crafts, music and more! Held in July.

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

Annual Events-

October/December

Alabama National Fair

Garrett Coliseum Montgomery, AL 36107

Action packed 10 days held in October. Come join us for fun, food, rides and music. Please visit website for performers.

(334) 272.6831 alnationalfair.org

Camellia Bowl

Crampton Bowl Montgomery, AL 36104

This is an NCAA sanctioned FBS college football game held sometime in December. (404) 862.4730 camelliabowl.com

Christmas on the Coosa

Gold Star Park Wetumpka, AL 36092

Annual Christmas parade held on the Coosa River with decorated boats at night. The festival also offers art/crafts, street parade, classic cars and more. (334) 567.5147 cityofwetumpka.com

Daddy Daughter Diamond Princess Ball 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104

A fundraiser that allows daddy’s and daughters to have that special night out. Open to girls ages 6th grade and under. Held in December. (334) 240.4500 oldalabamatown.com

Frontier Days at Fort Toulouse

2521 W. Fort Toulouse Rd Wetumpka , AL 36093

One of the largest and authentic living history events in Alabama. Demonstrates life on the southern frontier during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Held in November. (334) 567.3002 fttoulousejackson.org

Junior League Market

Multiplex at Crampton Bowl

Montgomery, AL 36104

Annual Holiday Market held in October. (334) 288.8816 jlmontgomery.org

Montgomery Christmas Parade

Capitol Building Montgomery, AL 36104

Begins at the steps of the capitol and ends at the Court Square.

(334) 625.4400 visitingmontgomery.com

Montgomery Symphony Orchestra

Holiday Pops Concert

251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104

The orchestra plays everyone’s favorite holiday songs. Great concert for family traditions. (334) 240.4004 montgomerysymphony.org

Tavern Fest

301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Popular event downtown featuring craft beer, live music, food, silent auction and much, much more! (334) 240.4500 oldalabamatown.com

Turkey Day Classic

915 S Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Alabama State University’s traditional Thanksgiving Day football game.

(334) 229.4100 bamastatesports.com

Annual Events-April/June

Alabama Book Festival

301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104

A wonderful lineup of regional authors from every genre. Lots to do with author panels, quiz shows, children’s activity area, live music, theatre, vendors, food and more. Held in April. (334) 240.4500 alabamabookfestival.org

Flimp Festival

1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117

Free Art festival featuring over a dozen art activities, chalk, live music performances, games and food vendors. Held in May. (334) 625.4333 mmfa.org

Fountain City Arts Festival in Prattville Downtown Prattville, AL 36067

A fun filled day with literary works, artist, musicians and more. Held in April (334) 595.0854 prattvilleal.gov

Herb Day

Grace Presbyterian Church, corner of the Atlanta Highway and Bell Rd. Montgomery, AL 36117

Heirloom organic vegetable plants and herbs. Held in April/May.

(334) 245.3508 www.alabamaherbsociety.org

Prattville CityFest

131 North Court Street Prattville, AL 36067

Visit our local vendors, enjoy the food vendors, fun area for the kids to play, live music and more. Held in May.

(334) 365.7392 prattvillecityfest.com

Ride for Freedom Bus Tour

210 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Meet with a Freedom Rider, Historians, Activists and other locals to hear the story from those who lived it and where it happened. Held in May.

(334) 414.8647 Facebook at Freedom Rides Museum

River Jam Music Festival

Riverfront Amphitheatre Montgomery, AL 36104

Annual Music Festival held at Riverfront Park. Please visit website to see Heading and other performers. Food vendors and beverages available. Held in May.

(334) 625.2100 funinmontgomery.com

Seafood and Arts Festival

Union Station, 300 Water St Montgomery, AL 36104

Delicious seafood, arts and crafts. Benefits Child Protect. Held in April.

(334) 625.2100 funinmontgomery.com

Sounds of Summer Concert Series

East Chase Montgomery, AL 36117

Eastchase serves up a series of summer concerts and they are FREE! You can visit our their website for dates and who’s playing. Begins in June.

(334) 279.6046 shoppesateastchase.com

Sweet Creeks Spring Chicken Festival

85 Meriwether Road Pike Road, AL 36064

Free Event with live music, BBQ cook-off, kids activities, handcrafted booths and more. Held in April.

(334) 280.3276

Annual Events-January/March

Millbrook Reveler Mardi Gras Festival and Parade

Village Green Millbrook, AL 36054

Largest Mardi Gras celebration north of Mobile. Lots of vendors and activities for the children. (334) 467.6726 millbrookrevelers.org

Prattville Mardi Gras Parade

Downtown Prattville Prattville, AL 36067

Let the good times roll! Come join the fun with great food, arts, crafts, inflatables and the parade. Bring a bag and expect to catch some candy and beads.

(334) 358.0297 prattvilleal.gov

Southeastern Livestock Exposition Rodeo Garrett Coliseum Montgomery, AL 36107

Grab your lasso and come on out and have some fun! We’ve got Cowboys, Cowgirls, Rodeo Clowns, Live performances and Xtreme bullfights.

(888) 2RODEO2 bamabeef.org

Annual Events-May/June

Farmer’s Market Grand Opening

East Chase Montgomery, AL 36117

Come visit us in Eastchase on Saturday mornings through September for local vendors and farmers. You will find anything from homemade soaps, farm fresh veggies and more. Opens in May.

(334) 279.6046 shoppesateastchase.com

Fun for Kids

2211 Ultimate Playzone

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3541 McGehee Road Montgomery, AL 36111

Great place for some family fun! Roller skating and large Fun Zone for kids to join in with handson activities.

(334)593.7180 2211ultimateplayzone.com

Newtopia

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3731 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116

Large indoor play arena with many activities for your children to enjoy. Café with free wifi available for parents to sit back and relax while their children play.

(334) 356.4518 newtopiafunpark.com

Launch Trampoline Park

891 Boardroom Drive Prattville, AL 36066

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

(334) 568.2041 launchtrampolinepark.com

Rockin Jump

5544 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117

Jump and soar in our open trampoline park. Café and tables provided for parents.

(334) 239.2587 rockinjump.com

Wheels Up Roller Palace at Eastdale Mall

1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117

Skate indoors year round.

(334) 277.2088 shopmalls.com

Local Attractions

Alabama Department of Archive & History

624 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130

Take a glimpse into Alabama’s past with valuable preserved records and artifacts at the Alabama Department of Archives and History.

(334) 242.4435 archives.state.al.us

Alabama State Capitol

600 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130

Schedule a tour of one of the oldest capitols and learn about the history of Alabama.

(334) 242.3184 ahc.alabama.gov

Biscuits Baseball

200 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Concessions available. Stay and watch the fireworks after scheduled games.

(334) 323.2255 milb.com

Blount Cultural Park

Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117

Beautiful park located between ASF and MMFA. Bring the kids to fly a kite, have a picnic by one of the beautiful lakes or walk the many walking trails. Visit the Shakespeare garden and the dog park. (334) 625.2300 funinmontgomery.com

Centre for African American Culture

1345 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Offers classroom instruction and curriculum through its living museum, seminars, and publications. Is open to all who are interested in studying the modern civil rights movement.

(334) 229.4824 lib.alasu.edu

Civil Rights Memorial Center

400 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104

The Civil Rights Memorial was built to honor the 41 people killed in the struggle for equal and integrated treatment of all people. splcenter.org

Dextre Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

454 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104

Known for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s hope and change speech.

(334) 263.3970 dexterkingmemorial.com

First White House of the Confederacy 644 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104

The residence where President Jefferson Davis and his family resided when the Confederate States of American was in Montgomery.

(334) 242.1861 firstwhitehouse.org

Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park

2521 W. Fort Toulouse R Wetumpka, AL 36093

Historic Fort near the City of Wetumpka founded by the French in 1717.

(334) 567.3002 fttoulousejackson.org

Governor’s Mansion

1142 S. Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104

13 First families have resided here in the past 60+ years. Free guided tours with reservations. (334) 242.7100 governor.alabama.gov

Harriott II

255 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Enjoy a scenic ride on the Alabama River on the Harriott II. Book for parties and reserve a spot on their dinner cruises. Scenic lunch and dinner cruises available.

(334) 625.2100 funontheriver.net

Meteor Crater

408 S. Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

One of the greatest natural disasters in the history of Alabama. Come see the 5 mile wide impact crater. (334) 567.5147 meteorcrater.com

Montgomery Zoo

2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110

This 40 acre zoo is divided into 5 continents. Ride the skylift, rent a paddle boat, take a train or walk the beautifully landscaped pathways to view over 500 animals.

(334) 240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com

National Memorial for Peace and Justice

417 Carolina Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Dedicated to the legacy of enslaved African Americans. Reflect America’s history of racial inequality. (334) 386.9100 museumandmemorial.eji.org

Old Alabama Town

301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104

A collection of restored 19th and 20th Century structures that display the lives of the people who settled and developed Central Alabama.

(334) 240.4500 oldalabamatown.com

The Alley

133 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Modeled after New Orleans, the Alley offers unique restaurants, bars and shops.

(334) 387.3333 alleystation.com

W.A. Gayle Planetarium

1010 Forest Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106

Auditorium setting with a 50 foot domed ceiling. View the planets, sky and many other show throughout the year. Located in the beautiful Oak Park. (334) 625.4799 montgomery.troy.edu/planet

Parks

Blount Cultural Park

3 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117

Open play area and miles of walking trails. Shakespeare Garden, Dog Park and ponds on sight. (334) 625.2300 funinmontgomery.com

Ida Bell Young Park

5400 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116

Playground, tennis courts and walking trails. Picnic area and bathrooms available. (334) 625.2300 funinmontgomery.com

Lagoon Park

2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36109

5 miles of biking and walking trails, playgrounds, batting cages and tennis courts. (334) 240.4050 funinmontgomery.com

Memorial Center Park

3168 Park Circle Millbrook, AL 36054

Walking trails, creek and Kids Kingdom Playground. (334) 285.7277 cityofmillbrook.org

Pratt Park

460 Doster Road Prattville, AL 36067

Walking trails, “A Child’s Place” Playground, Splash pad and community pool. (334) 595.0080 prattvilleal.gov

Riverfront Park

335 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Entertainment on the banks of the Alabama River. Splash pad, river boat rides, concerts at the Amphitheatre and biscuits baseball near by. (334) 625.2100 funinmontgomery.com

Vaughn Road Park

3620 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Boundless playgrounds, tennis courts and walking trails and large open play space. (334) 625.2300 funinmontgomery.com

Parks for Dogs

Cooter’s Pond

1844 Cooter’s Pond Prattville, AL 36066

Located on the banks of the river. Fenced in area for your pups to play with shade and fountains. (334) 595.0800 prattvilleal.gov

Hannah Daye Ridling Bark Park

6055 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116

5 acre park made especially for your furry pet. Separate areas for large and small dogs. Benches and shade available.

(334) 625.2300 funinmontgomery.com

Rotary Dog Park

Rotary Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Dog park located downtown near the Riverfront. Features water fountains dog sized and separate areas for large and small dogs.

(334) 625.2300 funinmontgomery.com

Performing Arts Centers & Theatres

Alabama Shakespeare Festival

1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117

A beautiful vision built by one of the locals. People from all over come to visit ASF and enjoy many of the plays throughout the year.

1 (800) 841.4273 asf.net

Capri Theatre

1045 East Fairview Ave Montgomery, AL 36106

One of the oldest remaining theatres in Montgomery. Please check our website for playlist.

(334) 262.4858 capritheatre.org

Cloverdale Playhouse

960 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Performing arts center in Montgomery located in the Cloverdale Historic District.

(334) 262.1530 cloverdaleplayhouse.org

Davis Theatre for Performing Arts

251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Beautiful historic theatre that hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year.

(334) 241.9567

Montgomery Performing Arts Center

201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104

Large auditorium located in the Renaissance Hotel for traveling performers and artiste. Please visit our website for concert and performance dates.

(334) 481.5100 mpaconline.org

Pike Road Theatre Company

Pike Road, AL 36064

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

Prattville Cultural Arts Center:

Way Off Broadway Theatre

203 West 4th Street Prattville, AL 36067

Community theatre in Prattville that puts on several performances a year.

(334) 595.0850 prattvilleal.gov

Wetumpka Depot Players

300 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

Live performances by local actors.

(334) 868.1140 wetumpkadepot.com

Recreation

O’ Connor Tennis Center

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500 Anderson Street Montgomery, AL 36107

O’Connor Tennis Center features a 12 court facility + two 36’ courts for children. Ben Bradshaw is a certified USPTA Elite professional who teaches private lessons. Multiple tennis lessons and clinics available.

(334) 240.4884 oconnortenniscenter.com

YMCA Montgomery

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880 South Lawrence St Montgomery, AL 36104

Choose from many of our programs: Childcare & Early Learning, Fitness, Swimming, Camps, Youth Sports, Adult Sports, Youth Programs, Senior Programs and Adventure Guides. Please visit our website for more information about our 12 locations what they have to offer.

(334) 269.4362 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Prattville

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972 McQueen Smith Rd S Prattville, AL 36066

We offer Childcare, Education and Leadership, Swim, Sports & Play and Camp. Please visit our website for information on our 5 locations and pricing.

(334) 365.5582 prattvilleymca.org

Alabama Nature Center 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL 36054

Outdoor facility that offers nature walks, educational programs, Day Camps, Homeschool programs and seasonal programs.

(334) 285.4550 alabamawildlife.org

Civil Axe Throwing

39 Dextre Avenue, Unit 2 Montgomery, AL 36104

Civil Axe provides a simple, thrilling activity in a safe and relaxed atmosphere.

(334) 209.5576 civilaxethrowing.com

Coosa Outdoor Center

172 River Road Wetumpka, AL 36092

Everything you need for some fun on the Coosa! Rentals, Campgrounds and Event sites available. (334) 201.5510 coosaoutdoorcenter.com

Coosa River Adventures

415 Company Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

Paddle along the Coosa River for fun. We offer rentals of all types for your adventure. (334) 514.0279 coosariveradventures.com

Lagoon Park & Golf

2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36109

Gorgeous 18-hold public golf course. Amenities include: lighted driving range, chipping and putting. (334) 240.4050 playmontgomerygolf.com

Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Sports Club

4758 Wetumpka Road Wetumpka, AL 36110

Choose from clay courses, covered 5-stand, wobble trap, skeet field, and pheasant hunts. (334) 420.3371 lwssc.com

Montgomery Bicycle Club

Recreational and competitive bicycling. mgmbikeclub.org

Montgomery Miracle League

We provide opportunities for children and adults with physical/cognitive disabilities. (334) 300.1088 montgomeryamerican.com

River Region Runners

Dedicated to serving all levels of runners. (334) 595.9786 riverregionrunners.org

Swayback Bike Trail

Jordan Dam Road Wetumpka, AL 36092 Offers 12 miles of biking/hiking. (334) 567.9090 trailoflegends.org

YMCA Grandview

4700 Camp Grandview Rd Millbrook, AL 36054 Large facility with pools, camps and sports. (334) 290.9622 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Wetumpka

200 Red Eagle Drive Wetumpka, AL 36092

Adult sports, aquatics, before and after school childcare, Summer Day Camps and Youth Sports. (334) 567.8282 ymcamontgomery.org rrp

in the River Region

Annual Flag Boat Parade

Tuesday, July 4, beginning at 8 a.m. at Kowaliga Marina on Lake Martin. Boats of all sizes parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor and back. Onlookers from the shoreline and water can watch free of charge. Boat registration is due by July 1. Forms can be picked up at any Russell Marine location - Kowaliga, Real Island, The Ridge and River North. For out-of-towners, call (256) 397.1210 to request a form. Registration is free.

Prattville Celebration

Patriotic Concert

Sunday, July 2nd at 3 p.m., Doster Center

Featuring patriotic pieces performed by the Prattville Pops and Community Chorus

Annual 4th of July Parade

On Tuesday, July 4th at 9am, family members of all ages will enjoy the fire engines, candy, floats and more. For more information, call 595-0800

Annual Lion’s Club BBQ

The annual Lion’s Club Bar-B-Q and Camp Stew Sale will take place at Pratt Park July 4th from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Craft Vendors,

BBQ and more. Call 358.1068 for info.

Cardboard Boat Races & Pool Party

10:30 a.m. Pratt Pool Pool Party 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Fireworks Presentation

July 4th and takes place at the Home Place Clock Tower fireworks begin at dark. Visit www.prattvilleal.gov for information.

Russell Lands

Fourth of July Blast: Concert and Fireworks

Join us on the grassy lawn at The AMP for the 4th of July Concert and the Southeast’s largest fireworks show. We are in the planning stages but rest assured when you join us you will have a fun time with great music – then we light the sky with a million colors! Claim your spot early and get ready to have some fun! The Lake Martin Amphitheater is located on Highway 63 about 1 mile south of Kowaliga Bridge. Call (256) 397.1019 or visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com

Callaway Gardens

Star Spangled Beach Party

The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at our annual July 4th Star

Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach activities, live music and our annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Be sure to pack plenty of red, white and blue for this All-American Weekend! Stay tuned for complete schedule of events. Please visit www. callawaygardens.com for more information.

Pike Road Summer Fest

Thursday, June 29 from 6pm-8:30pm

The Town of Pike Road is excited to invite the community to SummerFest, a family-friendly fireworks show on June 29 at the Pike Road Agriculture, Recreation & Performing Arts Park (6281 Trotman Rd). Parking will begin at 6 p.m. at Rolling Hills Park (6001 Rolling Hills Blvd). Please enter by Rolling Hills Blvd. Handicap parking will be available at the East Entrance of the PRARPAP, near the ball fields.

Family-friendly areas with food trucks, kids’ activities like inflatables and yard games, and green space for your lawn chairs and picnic blankets will be open from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.*

*Picnics are welcome, but NO alcoholic beverages are permitted at SummerFest. Lawn chairs and picnic blankets are welcome, but NO tents are permitted at SummerFest.

Fireworks will light up the sky at dark! For more information, please call (334) 272.9883 or visit www.Pikeroad.us

Wetumpka Celebration

Saturday, July 1st Fireworks will be at 8:30 p.m. Please visit for more information and updates or call (334) 567.5147.

Cloverdale-Idlewild Parade

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

Protect yourself and your baby from COVID-19. Get vaccinated.

COVID-19 can be very serious in pregnant women and vaccination is recommended for women who are pregnant, were recently pregnant, are breastfeeding or trying to get pregnant.

Women with COVID-19 during pregnancy are more likely to experience complications than women who are not. These can affect their pregnancy and developing baby, resulting in preterm birth, stillbirth and other pregnancy complications.

The COVID-19 vaccine has gone through the same strict development studies that all vaccines go through to ensure they are safe. To learn more about COVID-19 and pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus or go to the Gift of Life Foundation’s website at www.golfound.org and click the Education tab for links to local COVID-19 resources. This message is made possible by a grant from the CDC Foundation.

by Jan Pierce, M.Ed.

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

If you can relate to the above situations, you’re in good company. Take a deep breath. Remember how it used to be when children played freely without a lot of oversight and adult intervention. Can you recall the days when you scraped your knee and just got up and kept playing? When you could sit under a tree and inspect the intricacies of the natural world? When you could dig and build with natural objects? When it seemed there was all the time in the world to just be?

Today’s children need those same healthy, authentic play experiences. They need time to explore the out of doors, time to think and dream. Time to wonder and experiment.

How to begin? It’s easier than you might think. Just unplug and send the kids outside. They won’t need an agenda or directions. Once they find themselves in the great outdoors, they’ll do the rest. Here are eight benefits of unstructured, outdoor play.

Authentic Play

Today’s kids are steeped in a virtual world. They’re adept at computer use, coding, programming and the like, and that’s fine. They need to understand the technological world. But they also need authentic, handson experiences that can’t be had in a classroom or computer lab. They need to be grounded in the real world and able to engage in real-life experiences. They need to do real-time observation, exploration and interaction with the real world. They need the sensory experiences of watching a bird find a worm, of tracking the tiny veins and capillaries on a leaf, of squishing dirt and water together into mud. Kids need to play self-created games and make up their own rules. They need to learn how to try and fail and try again to make their play creations work.

Enhanced Decision-Making

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

Active vs Sedentary Play

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

Room for Wonder and Joy

Watching spiders spin a web. Catching grasshoppers in a jar. Hearing birds sing in the trees and seeing them drop bits of food into the open beaks of their hatchlings. Wandering a beach, picking up beautiful

shells or bits of driftwood, smelling the scent of grasses on a warm summer day. We all need opportunities to absorb the wonder of nature and to experience the joy of being part of the natural world. Give your kids the chance to do these simple things. They’ll benefit immensely.

Better Classroom Performance

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

Self-Reliance Through Exploration

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

Improved Social Skills and Interaction

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

Improved Mental Health

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

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at www.janpierce.net.

Dancer Wins Award for Most Entertaining

Danielle Stewart won the Most Entertaining award of the day at Dance Troupe, Inc competition! She did a solo to My Boyfriend’s Back and rocked the stage! Danielle is full of personality when she performs. She’s a dance team member at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection.

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection Scores at DTI

TSDC dance teams competed in Clanton, Alabama at Dance Troupe, Inc, with 38 dance routines including solos, duets & groups! All were awarded Platinums and High Golds, plus several First Place overalls. Our production piece was High School Musical, which featured our seven seniors: Zaina Marcum, Molly Miles, Heavenly Armstrong, Kynlee Barnes, Amy Treloar, Kiersten Jones, Holly Hammond) won

OVERALL Production & Platinum! Great job to our 44 dancers known as the DC Strutters!

FamilyCalendar

Thursday, June 1

Pike Road Community Scavenger Hunt

9AM - 5PM, Pike Road Pediatric Dentistry & Family Orthodontics, 9547 Vaughn Road Pike Road, AL, 36064 As part of our commitment to give back to our community, we will be donating $10 for every child that participates to the PTA’s of Pike Road Elementary, Pike Road Intermediate and Macon East Academy. This is a great opportunity to not only participate in a fun event, but also support our local schools.

(334) 277.6690 linktree/smilesfromus

Friday, June 2

Montgomery Greek Festival (FREE)

11AM - 9PM, Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, 1721 Mt. Meigs Road Montgomery, AL, 36107 Come enjoy your favorite homemade Greek goodies, music, dancing and atmosphere as you make your way around the beautiful grounds - experiencing the beauty of the Greek culture.

(334) 263.1366 mgmoc.com

City Fest 2023

6PM - 10PM, Downtown Corner Park, 616 2nd Ave. N. Clanton, AL, 35045 Come out and enjoy live music and great food in Clanton’s downtown entertainment district. Shop from over 50 arts and craft vendors. There will be something for the entire family at the 2nd annual Peach CityFest. info@chiltonchamber.org

Friday on the Green (FREE) 6:30PM8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Roads Alexander City , AL, 35010

Featuring 3 Hand Jam. Grab your comfy stuff and leash for the pup, then come out for a great time with the fam, friends, and really cool tunes! See you Friday, On The Green!

(256) 397.1019 russellcrossroads.com/events.html

Saturday, June 3

Santuck Flea Market (FREE)

5AM - 12PM, 7300 Central Plank Road Wetumpka, AL Come and see what our vendors have to offer.

Farmers Market at Eastchase (FREE)

7AM - 12PM, Eastchase, near Sephora, 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36117 This year is going to be bigger and better than ever with all of your favorite vendors and some fun, new vendors! (334) 279.6406 theshoppesateastchase.com

Farmers Market

7AM - 12PM, On the Grove, Doster Road Prattville, AL, 36067 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!

(334) 595.0850 prattvilleal.gov

2023 Healthy Kids Triathlon

7:30AM - 5PM, Bell Road Family YMCA, 2435 Bell Road Montgomery, AL, 36117 With registration, you will receive a T-shirt and finishing medals. Top three boys and girls in each age group will receive awards. Swim 25 meters, Bike 1/2 mile, Run 1/4 mile. Munchkins will be allowed to wear Coast Guard approved flotation devices and training wheels or tricycles.

(334) 271.4343 ymcamontgomery.org

Hydrangea Fest

8AM - 12PM, Alabama Wildlife’s Federation Paviliion, 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL, 36054 Maria Pacheco

will do a short program on Hydrangeas at 9:30 and then a guided tour to the Heirloom garden, past the 1820’s Historic Lanark home, and then down to view 1,000 hydrangeas growing around the Catfish pond. A few golf cart’s will be available to give rides. Plants will be on sale at great prices during the whole event. The proceeds benefitting the Lanark Gardens. (334)657-.9414 alabamawildlife.org

Calera and Shelby Railroad Saturday Train Ride

10AM - 11:30AM, Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, 1919 9th Street Calera, AL, 35040 Take your family on a trip back in time as you board vintage railroad coaches restored to their former glory! (205) 668.3435 info@hodrrm.org hodrrm.org

Kayak/Canoe Trail Fun Run

10AM Creek Walk- Beyond City Hall, Prattville, AL, 36067 Autauga Kayak/Canoe trail is a great way to cool off and see the beautiful nature (bamboo, waterfalls and the foliage) and history Prattville has to offer.

(334) 595.0100 prattvilleal.gov

Pick, Press, Paint: Colors of the Garden Workshop with Tara Sartorius (FREE)

10AM - 1PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL, 36117 Explore the power of flowers to create art. Participants will collect flowers from the Museum garden to create an original work of art on paper, and then add finishing touches using natural inks.

(334) 625.4365 bmorrison@mmfa.org mmfa.org

Floral Arrangement Workshop with Ward Chesser (FREE)

1PM - 3PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL, 36117 Learn how to make creative floral arrangements with Ward Chesser, a professional florist designer. He will share tips on how to create beautiful bouquets using stem flowers and greenery from your yard.

(334) 625.4365 mmfa.org

Wizard Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball

5PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery milb.com/montgomery

Capital City Bike Rally

9PM Capital City Motorsports Park, 2600 North Belt Drive Montgomery, AL, 36110(256) 618.1848 capitalcitymototsportspark.com

Monday, June 5

Beginner Wheel Throwing ($80)

12PM - 2:30PM, Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Beginner Wheel Throwing. Ages 16+

(334) 625.2787 montgomeryal.gov

Thursday, June 8

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

Art Talk

6PM - 8PM, Montgomery Art Center, 450 N Hull 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!

(334) 625.4365 mmfa.org

Friday, June 9

Summernight Downtown Art Walk (FREE) 6PM - 10PM, Downtown, Auburn, AL This year’s theme is peaches! The SummerNight Art Walk transforms downtown Auburn into an exciting arts district with work of local and regional artists, live musicians, amazing food and children’s activities. (334) 501.2930 auburnalabama.org

Alexander City Jazz Fest (FREE)

The Amp and Strand Park on Lake Martin, 8878 Kowaliga Road Eclectic, AL, 36024 The Alexander City Jazz Fest returns June 9 to Strand Park in Alex City and to The AMP on 10th. Check back for updates and line-up COMING SOON!!

(256) 397.1019 russellcrossroads.com/events.html

The Capri Theater presents Starling Girl

The Capri Theatre, 1045 East Fairview Avenue Montgomery, AL, 36106 17-year-old Jem Starling struggles with her place within her Christian fundamentalist community. But everything changes when her magnetic youth pastor Owen returns to their church. (334) 262.4858 capritheatre.org

Saturday, June 10

Farmers Market at Eastchase (FREE) 7AM - 12PM, Eastchase, near Sephora, 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36117 This year is going to be bigger and better than ever with all of your favorite vendors and some fun, new vendors!

(334) 279.6406 theshoppesateastchase.com

Farmers Market

7AM - 12PM, On the Grove, Doster Road Prattville, AL, 36067 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!

(334) 595.0850 prattvilleal.gov

Master Gardner Workshops - Orchid Basics

9AM - 11AM, Doster Community Center, 424 S Northington Street Prattville, AL, 36067 Presented by Judy May.

(334) 595.0800 prattvilleal.gov

Free Fishing Day in Alabama for Public Waters (FREE) Alabamians and out-of-state visitors alike will have the opportunity to fish for free in most public waters including both freshwater and saltwater. Free Fishing Day allows residents and non-residents to enjoy the outstanding fishing Alabama has to offer without purchasing a fishing license. The event is part of National Fishing and Boating Week, which runs June 3-11. outdooralabama.com

Sunday, June 11

Pursuit of Happiness Art Show

2PM - 4PM, Pike Road Arts Center, 944 Wallahatchie Road Pike Road, AL, 36064 This art show focuses on the unalienable rights outlined in the Declaration of Independence and features local artists’ interpretations of the Pursuit of Happiness.

(334) 272.9883 patty@pikeroad.us pikeroad.us

Tuesday, June 13

Montgomery Water Lantern Festival

6PM Blount Cultural Park, 3 Festival Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 Water Lantern Festival is an amazing

FamilyCalendar

experience where you’ll witness the magic of lanterns as they light up the water. Tickets are on sale for the Water Lantern Festival in Montgomery. waterlanternfestival.com

Wednesday, June 14

Creekwalk Concerts (FREE)

6:30PM Heritage Park, 228 S Court St Prattville, AL, 36067 Bring a blanket or a lawn chair. (334) 595.0850 prattvilleal.gov

Friday, June 16

Friday on the Green (FREE)

6:30PM - 8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Roads Alexander City , AL, 35010 Bama Sound Trio featuring Cameron Dubois. Grab your comfy stuff and leash for the pup, then come out for a great time with the fam, friends, and really cool tunes! See you Friday, On The Green!

(256) 397.1019 russellcrossroads.com/events.html

The Capri Theater presents The Master Gardner

The Capri Theatre, 1045 East Fairview Avenue

Montgomery, AL, 36106 A meticulous horticulturist is devoted to tending the grounds of a beautiful estate owned by a wealthy dowager. When he’s told to take on her troubled great-niece as an apprentice, his life is thrown into chaos and dark secrets from his past emerge.

(334) 262.4858 capritheatre.org

Saturday, June 17

Farmers Market at Eastchase (FREE)

7AM - 12PM, Eastchase, near Sephora, 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36117 This year is going to be bigger and better than ever with all of your favorite vendors and some fun, new vendors!

(334) 279.6406 theshoppesateastchase.com

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!

(334) 595.0850 prattvilleal.gov

Art Walk

10AM - 4PM, Sweetie B’s Arms Foundation, 2868 Zelda Road Montgomery, AL, 36106 Cultural Art Walk (334) 392.7363 sweetiebsarmsfoundation.com

World Giraffe Day, Conservation Event 10AM - 2PM, Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36110 Celebrate the longest-necked animal at the Montgomery Zoo, and on the planet.

(334) 625.4900 montgomerzoo.com

2023 Juneteenth Celebration

2PM - 6PM, Riverwalk Amphitheater, 355 Coosa St. Montgomery Entertainment, Food Trucks, Vendors, Kids Zone, Educational Presentations & Art Exhibits!

Featuring music entertainment by 2nd Coming. (334) 625.2118 montgomeryal.gov

Sunday, June 18

Father’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo

9AM - 4PM, Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36110 All Dads receive FREE admis-

sion to the Montgomery Zoo and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Join us for Dad’s special day. (334) 625.4900 montgomerzoo.com

Friday, June 23

Friday on the Green (FREE)

6:30PM - 8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Roads Alexander City , AL, 35010 Featuring Russell Craig. Grab your comfy stuff and leash for the pup, then come out for a great time with the fam, friends, and really cool tunes! See you Friday, On The Green!

(256) 397.1019 russellcrossroads.com/events.html

Saturday, June 24

Eastchase Farmer’s Market Celebration (FREE)

7AM - 12PM, Eastchase, near Sephora, 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36117 The market will be located near Sephora and H&M. This year is going to be bigger and better than ever with all of your favorite vendors and some fun, new vendors! Join us every last Saturday of the month for a Farmers Market celebration! Enjoy even more vendors and a HUGE Garden Cart Giveaway!

(334) 279.6406 theshoppesateastchase.com

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!

(334) 595.0850 prattvilleal.gov

Farmhouse Luau

10AM - 6PM, Lil’ Farmhouse Market, 837 Old US Highway 231 Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Join us for our summer luau event. We will have vendors, games, door prizes, food, and music! You won’t want to miss this! We can’t wait to see you! lilfarmhousemarket.com

Peach Jam Jubilee

11AM Clanton City Park, 510 Park Dr Clanton, AL Peach Jam Jubilee is a free outdoor festival featuring live music from country’s greatest artists along with arts and craft vendors, food trucks, inflatables, hot air balloon rides and so much more! You’ll find something for the entire family at this one day event celebrating Chilton County’s peach crop and farmers. (205) 755.2400 peachjamjubilee.com

Wednesday, June 28

Creekwalk Concerts (FREE)

6:30PM Heritage Park, 228 S Court St Prattville, AL, 36067 Bring a blanket or a lawn chair. (334) 595.0850 prattvilleal.gov

Thursday, June 29

Summer Fest (FREE)

6PM - 9:30PM, Pike Road Agriculture, Recreation & Performing Arts Park , 6281 Trotman Road Montgomery, AL, 36116 The Town of Pike Road is excited to invite the community to SummerFest, a family-friendly fireworks show on June 29 at the Pike Road Agriculture, Recreation & Performing Arts Park pikeroad.us

Friday, June 30

Friday on the Green (FREE)

6:30PM - 8:30PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Roads Alexander City , AL, 35010 Featuring Jonathan Bloom. Grab your comfy stuff and leash for the pup, then come out for a great time with the fam, friends, and really cool tunes! See you Friday, On The Green! (256) 397.1019 russellcrossroads.com/events.html

Saturday, July 1

Arti Gras (FREE)

9AM - 4PM, Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Roads Alexander City , AL, 35010 The twelfth annual Arti Gras will be held Saturday, July 1st, and Sunday, July 2nd on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. The twelfth annual Arti Gras will be held on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Artisans and patrons from all over the Southeast gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more!

(256) 397.1019 sriley@russelllands.com russellcrossroads.com/events.html

Sunday, July 2

Annual Patriotic Concert featuring Prattville Pops and Community Chorus (FREE)

3PM Doster Community Center, 424 S. Northington Street Prattville, AL, 36067 This annual Patriotic Concert in honor of Independence Day is a great way to spend an afternoon with family and friends. The concert is free and open to the public. prattvilleal.gov

Tuesday, July 4

4th of July Boat Parade

8AM - 5PM, Russell Marin - Kowaliga Marine, 255 Kowaliga Marina Road Alexander City , AL, 35010 The 4th of July Boat Parade is a long-standing Lake Martin tradition, and it seems to grow every year. Scores of boats slowly parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor in a festive and patriotic holiday display. Prizes are awarded for Tallest Flag, Largest Flag, Most Creative theme, and Most Patriotic Crew.

(256) 397.1210 russellcrossroads.com/events.html

Independence Day at The Montgomery Zoo

9AM - 4PM, Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy Montgomery, AL, 36110

(334) 625.4900 montgomerzoo.com

July 4th Concert and Fireworkds (FREE) 6:30PM - 10:30PM, The AMP on Lake Martin, 8878 Kowaliga Road Eclectic, AL, 36024 Not only will we light the sky with a million colors, but we have two great bands that will have you tapping a toe and singing along!

(256) 397.1019 russellcrossroads.com/events.html

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.

Share your students’ achievements by emailing a short article with photos to deanne@riverregionparents.com.

Dance Generation Shines at Inspire

Students of Dance Generation of Montgomery won big at the Inspire National Dance Competition in Dothan. They received Chrystal Diamond & Diamond awards in Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop and Lyrical as well as Overall High Scores. They also brought home awards for personality, use of props. Several competed in solo and duet and also received Diamond and Crystal Diamond and High Score Overalls. Students are under the Direction of Shawn Ransom Parker who says, “Our Dancers always make us proud. The expression on their faces when they perform and the love and support they have for their teammates are what makes them so special.”

to others in need. When they were 11, Breanna and Brooke started planning their 12th birthday gift to share with the world--Women In Training.

RRP: How do you balance being a mom and serving full-time as the Women in Training Chief Engagement Officer?

AB: I have the best of both worlds! I wake up quite early, so I get myself spiritually centered, then respond to emails, plan my day, and start working on grants or other big projects before taking the girls to school. While they’re in school, I attend meetings, work with volunteers and run business errands. After school, I tend to the girls’ needs by driving them to practice or sporting events. Evenings are reserved for cooking, enjoying dinner with my family, and attending two or three committee meetings weekly via Zoom. On Saturdays, we sometimes have activities with the WIT Leadership Development Academy, or the girls have social or athletic events. I reserve Sundays for spiritual communion with my family at First United Methodist Church. We have WIT board meetings once a month on Sunday afternoons. All in all, I have a pretty balanced life. I need to increase my exercise and vitamin intake to have the strength to do it all.

RRP: How do you help your children navigate social relationships and peer pressure?

AB: Oh, my goodness! Breanna and Brooke have quite an active social life. Social media can be divisive because sometimes teenagers – and many adults – forget that there is another human being with a soul behind that photo on our cell phones. I encourage them to minimize screen time and, most importantly: “Don’t believe the hype!” Other people may project a social media image of perfection, beauty, fashion, success, and round-the-clock partying, but that is not the reality. I tell the girls to compete only with themselves for excellence.

RRP: Both of your daughters attend Montgomery Academy. How do you handle their academic or personal achievements or struggles?

AB: Breanna and Brooke are new to The Montgomery Academy. It was difficult for the girls to change schools at the beginning of their sophomore year, but without a doubt, enrolling the girls in MA was an excellent decision. They are excelling academically and are part of the tennis team. Bree also recently joined the varsity cheerleading team. My husband and I support their inherited weakness –Math – by contracting with an excellent tutor.

RRP: What is your greatest hope for your childrens’ futures?

AB: My greatest hope for my children and grandchildren is the same hope I have for this broken world: That humans of different backgrounds will learn to understand each other. We have more in common than we realize.

Adeyela Albury Bennett has been married to Bradley Bennett for 18 years. They have two daughters, Brooke and Breanna (16-year-old fraternal twins). Adeyela also has two older daughters: Nuola (34) and Moremi (30).

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